267: Start Strong Mini-Series: NFL Quarterback on the Comeback Mindset That Refuses to Lose | Jake Plummer

Winning underdogs aren’t just driven by grit—they’re built on belief, resilience, and relentless curiosity. In this standout episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with Jake “The Snake” Plummer, legendary NFL quarterback, business builder, and champion of continuous learning. Jake opens up about the playbook behind his on-field comebacks, the power of true team belief, and why embracing curiosity has fueled his post-NFL success as an entrepreneur. From locker room speeches to the surprising world of functional mushrooms, Damon and Jake dig into leadership, humility, and trusting your gut through every twist—whether the stakes are the Rose Bowl or launching your next venture.

Packed with stories from the huddle and honest lessons from the business frontlines, this episode is a must-listen for anyone striving to build resilient teams, reinvent themselves, or lead with courage in uncertain times.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why belief in yourself and your team is the true difference-maker—on the field and beyond
2. How Jake overcame imposter syndrome and led Arizona State to an epic underdog victory
3. The importance of trusting your instincts when chaos strikes (plus, Jake’s Joe Montana connection)
4. Tactics for building resilient teams and why surrounding yourself with the right people matters most
5. Jake’s journey from NFL star to founder of Umbo (and why curiosity drives his leadership today)
6. How functional mushrooms can boost recovery, focus, and wellness—and why sleep is every leader’s secret advantage

Timestamps:

00:00 – Jake on the power of team and collaboration

02:25 – Essential lessons football taught Jake about belief

04:24 – Comparing Jake to his idol, Joe Montana

07:17 – Overcoming limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome

10:25 – Inside Arizona State’s legendary underdog win vs. Nebraska

13:31 – The team-only meeting that sparked a historic upset

14:31 – Transitioning from NFL stardom into entrepreneurship

18:06 – Healing, identity, and the impact of leaving football

23:31 – On continuous curiosity and learning post-NFL

27:49 – Jake’s mission with Umbo and the power of functional mushrooms

31:43 – What sports taught Jake about leadership and trusting your gut

35:11 – Practical advice for burnt out entrepreneurs and leaders

40:35 – Resources to learn more about functional mushrooms

42:00 – Can mushrooms help with addiction and brain health?

46:23 – Fatherhood, role modeling, and leadership off the field

47:32 – Where to connect with Jake and try Umbo’s products

About Jake Plummer

Jake Plummer is a former NFL quarterback best known for his electric style of play, resilience under pressure, and leadership both on and off the field. From leading Arizona State to a near-national championship run (and orchestrating one of college football’s most memorable upsets against Nebraska) to a successful starting career with the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals, Jake’s journey is filled with lessons in belief, toughness, and adaptability. Since leaving football, he’s reinvented himself as an entrepreneur and co-founder of Umbo, a company pioneering the benefits of functional mushrooms for energy, sleep, and resilience. Passionate about continuous growth and mental wellness, Jake is...