Wealthyist E74: Not All Money Is Good Money: Building Athlete Brands, Protecting NIL Deals & Planning Beyond the Game with Griselda Aldrete

In this episode of Wealthyist, host Deanne Phillips talks with Griselda Aldrete, founder and CEO of Star Sports Consulting Group and Andretti Law and Consulting. Aldrete’s work sits at the intersection of law, business, athletics, and family advising, helping high-school, collegiate, and professional athletes (and their parents) navigate the modern sports landscape.The conversation centers on how athletes have become entrepreneurs and brands far earlier than in the past—especially after the landmark House case opened the door to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation.

ldrete describes the “Wild West” reality of NIL: inconsistent state reporting rules, multi-state tax obligations, the student-vs-employee debate, and the flood of opportunistic or poorly advised deals. She stresses that “not all money is good money,” urging families to scrutinize contracts (including perpetual clauses), protect intellectual property and online presence (with AI now a new risk), and treat the athlete’s name and image as long-term assets.

Key themes include:

Starting conversations as early as age 8–12 while carefully balancing genuine athlete passion against parental dreams and avoiding burnout.Building a full support “house” (lawyer, financial advisor, marketing/PR, CPA) rather than relying on a single agent or handshake deals.Cultural and practical barriers to financial literacy—especially in minority communities—where sudden income can trigger family obligations, overspending, or risky behaviors.The critical backup plan of finishing education and developing life-after-sports skills, given that fewer than 1% of athletes go pro.Practical red flags and best practices for contracts, brand curation, and long-term wealth building versus short-term income.Aldrete’s closing advice to parents of a talented 16- or 17-year-old: ask where the athlete wants to be in five years and prepare the safest physical, mental, and financial path there; avoid chasing only the glitz without first getting the “house in order.”