By Kendall Fisher, executive producer at Grow Wire

Can you hear that? It’s the roar of fans funneling into stadiums all over America, faces painted, smiles gleaming, chants harmonized, ready to root for their favorite teams.

Yes, football season is officially here!

And what better way to kick things off than some inspiring words from an NFL legend, Coach Mike Ditka, who joins this episode of the “Grow Wire Podcast,” which was recorded at a live event in Chicago.

Ditka played for the Chicago Bears, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys during his memorable time on the field in the ‘60s and early ‘70s. He later took on a career off the field, coaching through the ‘90s for the Dallas Cowboys, the Chicago Bears (where he famously won a Super Bowl with, arguably, one of the best teams ever) and the New Orleans Saints.

In 1988, Ditka became the first-ever tight end to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. He’s won two Super Bowls—one as a player with the Cowboys and one as a coach with the Bears—and he was awarded NFL’s Coach of the Year twice.

Today, Ditka remains the president of the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund, a nonprofit organization providing financial grants and pro bono medical assistance to retired NFL players in dire need. He also has partnerships across several industries, including restaurants, hospitality, wine, meats and more.

Needless to say, Coach Ditka has had quite a career, and he’s sure to bestow his best advice from the lessons learned throughout his journey on this podcast episode. Hear his thoughts on the game of football today, how it’s changed and how the players have transformed. Ditka also addresses the experiences that encouraged his transition from a great player into an even better coach, what it takes to manage a successful team and the paramount moments from his career, both on and off the field.

You won’t want to miss this one—whether you’re a football fan or not! Tune in now on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud and YouTube.