Jason Kyle

“After 16 years, I was happy with my football career and ready for something new. I didn’t have a clear direction when I retired, but over my time playing I found areas of business that interested me.”

FINDING HIS PATH

Kyle’s journey to discovering his career path post-NFL took him down several different avenues. First he started with real estate development and then a technology startup, but neither provided the fit he was looking for in a job.

“After taking my lumps investing in the 2008 real estate market, I decided to go in to the tech world with a true startup," Kyle said. "Although it was a lot of fun and moved very fast, it had a lot of challenges. I also found myself missing the local and community aspects of growing a business. So, when I phased out of that I wanted something in my backyard, where I could move the needle and see the growth.”

That opportunity would come in the form of buying, selling, and holding onto small businesses, which gave Kyle the chance to work with companies that he was familiar with in his hometown of Tempe, AZ. Two brands, Over Easy and Press Coffee Roasters, launched the 16-year NFL veteran’s foray into franchising.

HONING HIS SKILLS WITH THE EXPERTS

Shortly after purchasing the two brands, Kyle attended a week-long entrepreneurship workshop provided through The Trust. His experience there helped pave the way for success.

“The session was an amazing program," Kyle said. "Aside from the connections and resources, their process really forced me to refine and define the customer experience in my businesses.”

“It's easy to get down in the weeds running a business," Kyle said. "The {program} did a great job of reminding me to focus on growth and working on my business rather than in my business. They helped me to create a bigger picture strategy and identify my competitive advantages.”

A NEW SUCCESS STORY

Nearly a year later, Kyle has seen his Over Easy brand expand from one to four franchises, and expects to have several more coming in the near future. Press Coffee Roasters has expanded to six locations as well, with sales going from 800,000 to nearly $5 million between retail and wholesale.

“Jason has established himself as an entrepreneur in his community, but also recognizes that there’s always more to learn,” said Miritte Steinberg, Kyle’s Program Manager at The Trust. “When Jason and I had the opportunity to meet in person at the Former Players Convention in Arizona this past year, it was apparent that he is a lifelong learner and remains actively involved in his community. It has been great watching Jason utilize The Trust resources to further both his personal and professional growth.”

While Kyle has been extremely successful, the reality is that many former NFL players struggle to find that next career move after their time in the league is up. Kyle’s advice: Have a game plan.

“Always continue to define and evaluate exactly where your business is and exactly where you want it to go," Kyle said. "Nothing is set in stone and the plan will always change.”