Limpert Tech on iHeartRadio: Tony Shellman, Streetwear and Urban Fashion Trailblazer, Starter

Great to talk to Tony Shellman of Starter this week. They are still “what the pros wear” and have a new partnership with the Atlanta Braves.

Starter, one the most iconic, innovative and authentic sports apparel companies in the world, is celebrated with an ICON at Threads By Braves Clubhouse Store special event with legendary Artist & Music Producer, Rapper, So So Def CEO, Grammy Award Winner, Jermaine Dupri.

Shellman was part of the festivities.

Jermaine donned his favorite Starter gear to officially start the game by giving the iconic “Play Ball” announcement on the mic live from Truist field. No wonder the Braves scored 10 back to back runs!

Launched in 1971, Starter changed the face of the sports apparel industry forever. Starter boasts licensing deals with every major American sports league, and it’s no secret that Starter products have been used by more professional teams than any other brand. The Starter S and Star completely connect the fan, the team and the player and allow the fan to “wear what the pros wear.”

Limpert Tech on iHeartRadio 6/3/23 - John Sapiente, CEO of Volition America

John Sapiente is the CEO of Volition America, a patriotic apparel brand that celebrates the country and supports the military community. Born and raised in Chicago, John is a University of Kansas Jayhawks alumnus.

Have a listen:

John’s extensive background in manufacturing and his passion for country and community led him to build Volition America, despite his non-traditional background in apparel, consumer goods or brand building. He currently owns and operates two companies that manufacture Safety-Critical components for the Automotive Industries and Disposable Devices for the Med Device Community.

John’s mission to build a brand that celebrates the country and supports the military community was inspired by his involvement in the Folds of Honor Foundation, a 4-star Goldstar-rated charity that has provided over $220,000,000 and 44,000 scholarships to children and spouses of our fallen soldiers and First Responders, and served on the board of directors. He was inspired by Lt. Colonel Dan Rooney, the founder of the charity, which has provided over .91 of every dollar donated going to the recipients.

Marucci Sports is the latest partner to join Volition America’s curated coalition of premium lifestyle brands, building towards unity in our country and inspiring the power of choice.

Volition America is a movement changing the way we connect with America, through innovative apparel and accessories. Volition America is a collaboration of labels and a collective expression of love for America that transcends culture, gender, race, age and political beliefs. Empowering people to live through positive choices is the driving force of the company and its partnerships. Volition America is both a symbol and a catalyst for unity – when you see the VA logo, you are part of a movement that cares. This alliance of brands and the consumers who engage with them are making a conscious choice to express the power to celebrate America and build strong communities.

John’s dedication to the military community, combined with his manufacturing expertise, has allowed him to create a unique brand that unites and supports America. He is committed to making a positive impact and driving positive change in the world.

Limpert Tech on iHeartRadio 4/30/22 - CJ Stroud, Ohio State Starting Quarterback, now with Express NIL Deal

Rick is joined by Ohio State starting quarterback this week on iHeartRadio.

Stroud is Express' first-ever Collegiate Athlete Style Ambassadors along with fellow local Columbus collegiate football player Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

Have a listen:

Stroud was born on October 3, 2001, and later attended Rancho Cucamonga High School in Rancho Cucamonga, California. As a senior, he was the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin offensive player of the year after passing for 3,878 yards and 47 touchdowns. In 2019, he was the MVP of the Elite 11. Stroud was selected to play in the 2020 All-American Bowl. He committed to Ohio State University to play college football.

Stroud spent his true freshman year at Ohio State as a backup to Justin Fields. He did not attempt any passes but had a 48-yard rushing touchdown.


Stroud was named the starting quarterback as a redshirt-freshman following the departure of Justin Fields to the 2021 NFL Draft. He was chosen over freshman Kyle McCord and fellow redshirt-freshman Jack Miller III. Coach Ryan Day credited his decision-making, leadership skills and accuracy as the reason he earned the starting spot.

Stroud started all his regular season games except for one against Akron in order to rest a shoulder injury he sustained in the season opener. Over the season, he earned first team All-Big Ten Honors, won Big Ten Freshman of the Week six times, was a finalist for the Davey O'Brien Award, and was the only quarterback in Ohio State history to throw for five touchdowns against Big Ten competition four times in a single season. He led the team to a 10-2 record in the regular season, losing to Michigan in their final game. However, he and Ohio State bounced back from this disappointment at the Rose Bowl, coming back from a 14 point deficit against Utah to win 48-45 in a thriller. Stroud threw for a school and Rose Bowl record 573 yards in the win, and also tied a school record and set a Rose Bowl record with 6 touchdown passes.

In April, Express, announced its partnership with hometown athletes CJ Stroud and Jaxon Smith-Njigba as its first-ever collegiate style ambassadors. The announcement is part of the retailer's goal to connect with new customers through a range of influential partners, which includes style editors, influencers, ambassadors and now, college athletes. Stroud and Smith-Njigba will work alongside Express and leverage their platforms to share how they approach dressing for off-the-field occasions and inspire others with their personal style.

Stroud’s home life has also played an integral role in his ability to remain within himself despite increased national notoriety. Stroud said both his parents have preached the importance of being humble since he was a child, and as the youngest of five children, his siblings aren’t afraid to knock him down a peg to remind him of the need for humility.

It's what led to this historic partnership with Express. Stroud is destined for success on and off the field.