Fueling New Dreams Through Family, Food, and Passion
Shaq Calhoun is a former NFL offensive lineman who has built a new life rooted in entrepreneurship, family, and passion. After playing for the Miami Dolphins, he transitioned into the world of business, launching a thriving BBQ catering company in Birmingham. Dedicated to building a meaningful second chapter, Shaq spends his days cooking, traveling, investing in new ventures, and cherishing the time he now shares with his family.
Serving Up Success One Plate at a Time
From the NFL to building a family-run business, Shaq Calhoun is focused on creating a legacy fueled by passion, resilience, and connection. He Invests in his future through real estate, his BBQ business, and strengthening the relationships that support both his personal and professional growth. He Cultivates a family-first business alongside his cousin and girlfriend, building a BBQ catering company that reflects his love for food, family, and authentic connection. He Elevates his entrepreneurial dreams by building new ventures like an Airbnb property in Atlanta and expanding his personal brand and business reach.
So-fi bbq catering
After finishing his NFL career, Shaq Calhoun found new purpose in entrepreneurship and family. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Shaq launched a BBQ catering business named SoFi BBQ in March 2023, working alongside his cousin and girlfriend. A natural in the kitchen, he smokes all the meats himself and focuses on providing unforgettable food experiences at local events. What began as weekend parties with friends has now evolved into a full-fledged business that Shaq is passionate about growing. His love for cooking not only fuels his business but also keeps him deeply connected to his roots and his community.
Check out Sofi BBQ
investment growth
Beyond the kitchen, Shaq is investing in his future through real estate. He’s currently working on launching an Airbnb property in Atlanta, blending his love for hospitality with smart investments. He’s also focused on home improvement projects and working behind the scenes to build strong branding around his businesses. For Shaq, investing in himself — his talents, his passions, and his relationships — is the ultimate playbook for long-term success. Every step he takes is about building a solid foundation for the future.
staying balanced
Family remains at the heart of Shaq Calhoun’s journey, shaping the way he approaches life after football. Post-NFL, he treasures the time he now shares with his daughter, who is thriving in second grade and attending the very same school Shaq once graduated from. Weekly traditions like traveling with his girlfriend and bowling every Thursday with his dad and close friends keep him grounded and energized, offering a perfect balance between the grind of building businesses and the joy of making memories. This year alone, Shaq has explored Jamaica, Mexico, and Barbados, using travel as a way to recharge and experience the world beyond the football field.
the road ahead
Shaq’s athletic career, from playing private school football in Alabama to becoming a standout starter in the SEC at Mississippi State and competing for teams like the Miami Dolphins, Cincinnati Bengals, and Denver Broncos, built the foundation of hard work, discipline, and perseverance that now drives his second chapter. While an injury and life events ended his time in the league earlier than planned, Shaq views it not as a setback, but as the beginning of a new mission. Today, he’s fully embracing his next play — pouring his energy into entrepreneurship, strengthening family ties, growing his businesses, and living life with a renewed sense of passion and purpose. His story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of building something even greater after the game.
Listen on spotify Listen on youtubeBeing in a room with guys going through the same transition was life-changing for me. The deep dives, the hands-on sessions, and the speakers really hit home. I built strong relationships that are still helping me today, especially with my BBQ business. The PAC experience was like nothing I’ve ever been a part of, and what’s even better is it hasn’t stopped — we’re still pushing, still supporting each other, and still growing.
Shaq Calhoun
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