Episode Details

In this special episode of Call Sheet Confessions, Mia sits down with one of the biggest influences on her life and career—her grandfather, Sonny Elia, the man behind the legendary Philadelphia 76ers basketball camps.

From a tight-knit Philly neighborhood to partnering with an NBA franchise, Sonny shares how he:

• Turned a struggling summer camp into a thriving 76ers-branded basketball empire
• Balanced teaching, coaching, and entrepreneurshipwhile raising a family
• Navigated bad business partners, broken deals, and 10+ years of struggle before things finally took off
• Built a reputation for loyalty, honesty, and hard workthat still follows him decades later
• Impacted thousands of kids through sports, camps, and mentorship

You’ll hear stories about:

• Growing up in Philadelphia and falling in love with sports
• Playing college baseball at Louisville and discovering his passion for basketball
• The risky letter he wrote to the Sixers that changed everything
• Working with NBA stars like Charles Barkley and running “Thump and Bump” camps
• Life lessons on money management, loyalty, self-advocacy, and taking smart risks

This is a heartfelt, behind-the-scenes look at family, legacy, and building something from nothing—and how those lessons shaped Mia’s own journey in entertainment.

If you’re into entrepreneurship, sports, Philly stories, or just love a good family legacy, this one’s for you.