Influential Athlete

About our Founders - Stephanie & Joe Grady: Stephanie Grady is a 2x Emmy-winning journalist, former gold-medal-winning figure skater, and the CEO and co-founder of Influential Athlete. Her experience as a high-profile public figure, combined with her husband and co-founder Joe's decade of experience as an athletic director, uniquely positions them to help elite female student-athletes maximize NIL opportunities and build success beyond their sport. Throughout her career, Stephanie has had the privilege of working with some of the biggest names in the world. From star pro athletes like Hakeem Nicks with the NY Giants and John Kuhn of the Green Bay Packers, to celebrated actors like Adam Sandler and Heidi Klum, to influential entertainers like J Lo and Dane Cook, to world leaders like John McCain and others. Stephanie has consistently demonstrated her ability to connect with a diverse range of individuals and extract their unique insights. As a former Athletic Director of a sports-focused private high school, Joe Grady understands the ins and outs of the athletic world and the politics that go along with it. He knows how to strategically navigate all aspects of “the game” from coaching and recruitment to team dynamics and family support. Under Joe’s direction, several of his school’s athletic programs have produced D1 and professional athletes. Building on their expertise in sports, broadcasting, and business, Stephanie and Joe recently launched Influential Athlete Academy to help elite student athletes navigate and maximize new opportunities with NIL. They firmly believe that every athlete can become an influential figure, not only in their chosen sport but in the broader world. Through Influential Athlete Academy, Stephanie and Joe are committed to helping young athletes reach their full potential and achieve greatness both on and off the field.