My Story as an Author

Meet John Nitti: Author, NFL Athlete, and Father

Learn from John Nitti’s remarkable journey as a Yale football captain, NFL athlete, and Wall Street executive. In his book, What Would Dad Say?, he distills a lifetime of high-stakes experience into simple, memorable rules. Discover practical wisdom to help fathers and professionals navigate family dynamics, career hurdles, and everyday struggles with clarity and confidence.

Education & Athletics

John Nitti’s journey began on Long Island, leading him to Yale University, where he graduated cum laude and captained the Ivy League Championship football team. These early years under Hall of Fame coaches like Carmen Cozza and Bill Belichick instilled the discipline and ‘rules of life’ that form the backbone of What Would Dad Say?

Wall Street & Beyond

Transitioning from a New York Jets running back to the executive offices of IBM, Amdahl, and EMC, John spent over 20 years on Wall Street. Having navigated the highs of the ‘heyday’ and the lows of Black Monday and the 2008 Financial Crisis, John provides a unique perspective on career planning and financial resilience for families today.

Community & Mentorship

A dedicated community leader, John has spent decades coaching youth sports and serving on the board of the Marty Lyons Foundation. His philosophy on motivation, education, and athletics has made him a sought-after speaker for students and parents alike, with features in the New York Times and Newsday.

Family & Friends

Above all, John is a father. Married to his wife, Patricia, since 1985, they have raised four children who attended elite institutions including Cornell, NYU, Penn State, and Bucknell. It is this lived experience—balancing a high-pressure career with a thriving family life—that fuels John’s mission to help other dads navigate their own everyday struggles.