Why Character Always Wins
Why Character Always Wins  
Podcast: The Playbook With David Meltzer
Published On: Sat Apr 19 2025
Description: In today’s episode, I sit down with former NFL executive and ESPN analyst Mike Tannenbaum. From his years leading the Jets and Dolphins, Mike shares how he managed the pressure of decisions worth hundreds of millions and why character always determined the ceiling for a player’s success. He reflects on lessons from Curtis Martin, the importance of consistency, and why small daily efforts stack into game-changing results. We also talk about building lasting relationships, staying motivated after failure, and what young athletes should know if they’re serious about the NFL. Mike’s journey is a reminder that talent sets the floor, but mindset and preparation raise the ceiling.