In the final episode of the first season of the podcast, Mary and your host Carrie are taking time to reflect on the incredible journey that this podcast has embarked upon, celebrating the diverse stories and insights shared by their guests. Hear clips from several prior guests. From Alysia Montano's reflections on the evolving landscape of youth sports, Alicia Sacramone Quinn's insights on sacrifice and perseverance, to Elle St. Pierre’s insights into a strong work ethic, each conversation offers a unique perspective on the intersection of sports, life, and family.

Guests like Regan Smith and Gwen Jorgensen also share their experiences navigating the pressures of elite competition while prioritizing mental health and self-worth beyond athletic achievements, and Carrie and Mary discuss the importance of supporting children's athletic endeavors while maintaining a balanced approach, emphasizing the value of multi-sport participation and the life lessons learned through dedication and commitment.

Throughout this reflective episode, Mary and Carrie respond to Buzz Schneider's comments about mental health among athletes, and they explore the role of parents in fostering a positive sports environment, encouraging listeners to prioritize support and encouragement over excessive pressure. They highlight the significance of community and teamwork, drawing from personal experience and insights shared by their guests to underscore the importance of showing up for one another, both on and off the field!

In this episode:

[0:37] - Mary and Carrie are doing a wrap-up show to celebrate the end of the first season!

[1:38] - Hear a clip from Alysia Montano in which she advocates for diverse youth sports experiences.

[4:49] - Mary discusses the balance between pushing kids in youth sports and allowing exploration.

[7:19] - Carrie emphasizes gratitude and life lessons learned through sports, advocating for well-rounded experiences.

[8:21] - We get a clip from Alicia Sacramone Quinn in which she prioritizes representing her country over typical social experiences, valuing unique opportunities.

[9:16] - Carrie shares her personal views on the idea of sacrifice.

[12:02] - Carrie advocates for a balanced approach to youth sports, emphasizing supporting her children rather than pressuring them.

[13:54] - Hear from Regan Smith, who stresses the importance...

Listen in this week as I, your host Carrie, interview Elle St. Pierre, an absolutely remarkable Olympian who has recently etched her name in the annals of track and field history!

Elle, fresh off her gold medal victory at the 2024 World Athletic Indoor Games in Scotland, takes us on a riveting journey through her incredible career. From representing the United States at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo to her triumphant return to the track after embracing motherhood, Elie shares the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

In this heartfelt interview, Elie opens up about the challenges of balancing training with motherhood and the unwavering support of her family. She reflects on her humble beginnings on a farm, where she discovered her love for sports, and how those roots continue to ground her amidst the whirlwind of elite competition.

This episode isn't just about medals and records, though; it's about resilience, determination, and the power of pursuing your passion against all odds. Whether you're a seasoned athlete, a sports enthusiast, or simply someone in need of inspiration, Elie's story is sure to leave you feeling motivated and empowered!

In this episode:

[1:30] Elle feels great after her recent victory, though adjusting to normalcy has been emotional.

[3:00] Elle's motivation soared post-pregnancy, Fueled by determination to defy those who doubted her, Elle's motivation to return swiftly soared post-pregnancy.

[5:17] Elle reveals that inspiring kids and envisioning her son's pride fuels her passion for running.

[6:55] Elle reflects on having grown up on a farm and how her sports journey blossomed, from basketball to track and cross-country.

[9:37] Growing up, sports were embraced without pressure in Elle's family.

[12:56] Elle takes pride in always having stayed true to herself and being authentic.

[14:33] Balancing training with family support enhances Elle's athletic performance and travel experiences.

[16:40] Elle expresses gratitude for having trained alongside dedicated teammate Emily Mackay, fostering mutual growth and support.

[18:31] Offering advice, Elle emphasizes the importance of supporting children, advocating for hard work, fun, and cherishing moments.

[20:08] Elle attributes her success to a strong work ethic and supportive coaches, despite limited resources.

[21:43] Elle addresses the challenges of traveling with kids for races, emphasizing the need for support, including childcare and financial aid.

[23:30] What other Olympian would Elle have on the show?

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Welcome back, dear listeners! Today’s guest is none other than the legendary Buzz Schneider, hockey icon and Olympic gold medalist. (He is so legendary, in fact, that he has even been played by Jonathan Sagal in a movie!) Join me as we journey through Buzz's remarkable career, from his early days on the ice in Minnesota to his unforgettable moments on the world stage.

Listen as Buzz shares some insights into the thrill of representing his country, donning the USA jersey, and forging lifelong friendships with fellow athletes. We explore the grit and determination it took to compete at the highest level, from grueling training sessions to nail-biting Olympic games.

From his perspective as a multi-sport athlete, Buzz offers valuable advice for parents and youth navigating the complex world of sports today. We delve into topics like the importance of instinct, the evolution of sports training, and the enduring legacy of the "Miracle on Ice."

Prepare for captivating stories, including what it was like to light the Olympic torch in Salt Lake City and the joy of scoring five goals at the Olympics. Plus, Buzz reflects on the significance of the Olympic title and what it means to be part of an elite club of athletes. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or simply love a good underdog story, this episode is sure to leave you feeling motivated and uplifted!

In this episode:

[1:59] Buzz shares his earliest memory of the Olympic games.

​​[3:50] After years away from hockey, Buzz fractured ribs at a fantasy camp but still enjoys the game.

[4:58] Buzz reflects on how growing up in a small town led to friendships and camaraderie in hockey, even with opponents.

[6:30] Buzz describes having played in the Olympics as thrilling, with family support and unique experiences in modest accommodations.

[9:28] Choosing hockey over baseball led to a fulfilling career for Buzz.

[10:22] Buzz fondly remembers his coach as an exceptional coach who was dedicated and innovative.

[12:48] Training under challenging conditions, like weighted vests and hill climbs, pushed Buzz to excel.

[14:30] The lasting impact of Olympic victories, like Jack Lockhart's, continues to shape lives indefinitely.

[17:39] Buzz argues that exploring different sports and playing with friends fosters creativity and skill development beyond structured training.

[18:30] How old was Buzz when he started playing sports?

[19:19] Buzz acknowledges mental health challenges in sports, urging athletes to seek help for their well-being.

[21:57] Buzz reflects on aiming for an Olympic victory under his coach's guidance and staying focused.

[23:28] In sports today, staying true to your passion is key to overcoming challenges.

[25:02] Buzz reiterates that he grew up in a small town and reflects on how sports taught him commitment and continuous improvement.

[27:31] What Olympian, young or old, would Buzz love to have interviewed on the podcast?

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Join me as I sit down with fellow Olympian Gwen Jorgensen and her mother, Nancy Jorgensen, in this inspiring episode! Gwen, the first American to clinch Olympic gold in the triathlon, shares her incredible journey from being an accountant to a world-class triathlete, and we dive into the emotional highs and lows of her Olympic triumph, her transition from swimming to track and field, and the pivotal role her parents played in nurturing her passion for sports.

Discover Gwen's dedication to pushing her limits and overcoming fears, from confronting her anxieties on a mountain bike to her relentless pursuit of improvement in the triathlon world. We also explore the profound impact of Gwen's supportive partnership with her husband Patrick, and Nancy's insights into parenting and supporting Gwen's athletic endeavors.

Nancy reflects on raising two ambitious daughters deeply immersed in both music and sports, despite not having the same opportunities herself. Their dynamic illustrates the importance of fostering well-rounded individuals who excel in various pursuits. She also touches upon the process behind writing the book Go, Gwen, Go.

From discussing Gwen's recent return to triathlon after a seven-year hiatus to the lessons learned from their collaborative books, our conversation is brimming with wisdom and inspiration. Join us as we celebrate Gwen's resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to her dreams!

In this episode:

[2:46] Gwen recalls her emotional Olympic victory after years of dedicated training and inward perseverance.

[4:10]: We learn that, despite dreaming of Olympic success in swimming since elementary school, Gwen transitioned to track and field in college.

[6:19]: Gwen credits her parents for not pushing her to specialize early in sports, leading to her passion for triathlon.

[8:15] Nancy touches upon how she fostered a balanced upbringing for her daughters, emphasizing both sports and music.

[10:19]: Nancy reflects on her parenting journey, prioritizing balance and support over pushing her daughters towards Olympic success.

[12:10] Gwen reflects on the challenge of balancing personal success with family happiness and parenting decisions.

[15:02]: Nancy admits that she copes with the nerve-wracking experience of watching Gwen race on TV by cleaning and pacing.

[16:41] Gwen talks about her journey of returning to triathlon after becoming a mother of two.

[18:54]: Hear how Gwen finds motivation in daily training and embraces both highs and lows of racing.

[20:38] Gwen reveals that she embraces vulnerability in sports, inspiring others to pursue ambitious goals despite setbacks.

[23:29] Learn about the process behind Go, Gwen, Go.

[25:46]

Join me, your host Carrie, today as I sit down with John Roethlisberger, a three-time Olympian gymnast, fellow NBC commentator, and director of FlipFest, a gymnastics camp. We dive into his incredible journey, filled with familial gymnastic influences, three Olympic Games, and the profound impact of his dad as a coach!

In our rapid-fire round, we navigate the Minnesota sports scene, from Twins vs. Vikings to Prince's timeless influence. John's insights into his journey, from a gymnastics family to competing in three Olympics, provide a unique perspective on the dedication and passion that define elite athletes.

Our conversation also takes a fascinating turn into the realm of youth sports, as John emphasizes the importance of gymnastics beyond its physical benefits. He shares valuable lessons on kindness, toughness, and hard work, values which he instills in his own family.

As we explore his coaching experiences, John unveils the essence of his summer camp, focusing on joy, self-belief, and the potential for greatness beyond gymnastics. We get an intimate glimpse into his parenting philosophy, stressing kindness, toughness, and hard work as crucial pillars for his children's development.

The discussion also takes a turn towards mental health, with John candidly discussing the personal impact of these issues within his family and society. He shares the challenges elite athletes face in maintaining a balance between physical and mental toughness, shedding light on the often-overlooked aspect of an athlete's journey.

Join us for an episode packed with inspiration, laughter, and genuine reflections on life as an elite athlete, coach, and parent. Get ready to be motivated and entertained on this journey through the world of gymnastics and beyond!

In this episode:

[02:24] John prefers Prince over Bob Dylan.

[03:13] John shares how he grew up in a gymnastics family and joined the '92, '96, and 2000 Olympic teams, cherishing the journey despite not winning a medal.

[06:40] Encouraged by his dad, John gravitated towards gymnastics, emphasizing its toughness and long-term benefits for kids.

[09:35] For young kids, gymnastics is about the experience, not perfection.

[10:20] As a driven grade schooler, John's intense passion and competitiveness were tempered by self-imposed challenges and lessons.

[13:25] The challenges of being parents with a passion for sports involve avoiding undue pressure.

[14:14] In John's family, kindness, toughness, and hard work are emphasized, fostering resilience and a balanced life.

[16:25] John's primary hope is for his three boys to lead fulfilling lives beyond athletic victories.

[18:08] In youth sports, John emphasizes prioritizing enjoyment, positive attitude, and sincere effort over early victories.

[21:13] It's important to balance progress and enjoyment in youth sports.

[22:28] Despite a Hall of Fame induction, John's dad prioritized the process, shaping his perspective on success.

[24:07] Hear how John values instilling in his son the importance of embracing the grind in sports.

[27:39] John values his business partnership with Olympic teammate John McCreadie.

[28:48] John stresses the urgent need to destigmatize mental health, drawing from personal experiences and observations.

[31:16] Listen as John reflects on the mental challenges of elite athleticism, highlighting the struggle to balance physical and mental well-being.

[33:15] John emphasizes the vital intersection of mental health and sports challenges for elite athletes, citing Simone Biles' experience as a powerful example.

[36:38] Currently less involved in coaching, John passionately runs a summer camp, prioritizing joy, self-belief, and life excellence.

[38:24] John reflects on memorable sports moments, like Rulon Gardner's 2000 wrestling victory, expressing interest in hearing

Dawn Harper-Nelson is a gold medalist in the 2008 Olympic Games and a silver medalist in the 2012 Olympic Games. She is also a mother of two and actively involved in coaching and has a truly awesome story to share. Join us for this conversation as we delve into Dawn's Olympic experiences, her journey in track and field, and the challenges she faced, both as an athlete and a mother.

Dawn shares some insights into her training under coach Bobby Kersee, highlighting the mental preparation he instilled in athletes for the grand stage. The episode explores Dawn's experiences dealing with setbacks, overcoming injuries, and the mental resilience required in high-stakes competitions.

Our conversation also offers a glimpse into Dawn's personal life and the support that she receives from her family and her teammates, both of which have helped her through difficult times such as having received hateful, racist comments from people. We touch upon Dawn's perspective on motherhood, balancing training with raising her two children, and the challenges she faced in reclaiming her identity after becoming a mom.

Listen as Dawn shares her thoughts on what it means to “prepare for the moment,” coaching, the importance of mentorship, and her desire to inspire the next generation. She reflects on the intersection of faith, mental health, and the lessons learned through her athletic journey. This is such a candid and inspiring conversation with Dawn Harper Nelson that you will not want to miss. Dawn's journey serves as a source of motivation and empowerment for athletes and parents alike.

In this episode:

[02:44] Dawn discusses her two children and what they’re like.

[5:45] At 12, Dawn shifted from gymnastics to track, initially struggling but persistently triumphing over challenges.

[7:51] Despite her shyness, Dawn's mom supported her in sports, while her dad emphasized humility and hard work.

[9:07] Hear Dawn go into more detail about her Olympic experience.

[11:18] Coach Bobby Kersee excels in preparing athletes mentally for the grand stage through unique drills and simulations.

[13:43] Being a creature of habit, Dawn believes in meticulous preparation, checking off details to handle unforeseen variables and disruptions.

[16:25] Dawn shares how despite setbacks before the 2012 Olympics, she focused on resilience and triumphed in a crucial race.

[21:04] High moments can be great, but we also learn from the low moments.

[23:24] Dawn discusses her faith and how it helps her through.

[25:00] Dealing with external pressure and hurtful comments challenged Dawn's self-perception, but her family support helped her navigate it.

[29:15] Dawn shares how she has learned to appreciate her inner strength and embrace self-love.

[30:37] Reflecting on her love for diverse food experiences, Dawn cherishes certain memories that helped her realize how big and multicultural the world is.

[34:04] Dawn and her husband knew each other in high school but did not date, and she shares how they met.

[35:21] Navigating dating restrictions in high school led Dawn to a thoughtful understanding of expectations and priorities.

[37:55] Dawn expresses her gratitude for having a husband who shares her passion for track and field.

[41:15] Dawn feels that being a mother is more difficult than being an Olympic athlete and explains why.

[42:42] Dawn is a big fan of Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and would love to sit down and talk with her.

[43:23] Dawn answers some fun rapidfire questions.

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Alicia Sacramone Quinn is one of the most decorated US Olympic Gymnasts in American history. Now she’s a wife, mom to four, and a voice for upcoming elite gymnasts. Listen as she shares more about her story and why mental health in elite and professional sports is so important to her.

Based on the career she’s had, you’d think that Alicia started gymnastics at a super young age, but she started when she was 8. She loved the drive it put on her to achieve perfection and she dedicated her time and attention to getting better, even when she felt like she wasn’t all that good at the sport.

That drive saw her traveling the world in high school and attending Brown to continue training to join the US Olympic team. During her time on the Olympic team, there wasn’t a whole lot of room for voicing her opinions on what her body could and could not do at any given time, which is why she’s making sure that upcoming elite gymnasts know that they’re allowed to speak.

She shares her thoughts on becoming a mother, why going from three to four was by far the hardest transition they’ve had, her advice for mom’s looking to put their kids in youth sports, and what she’s passionate about these days. She also shares her opinion on the state of youth sports today and why she believes they’re so important.

Listen in to hear a fantastic conversation and learn more about what it takes to reach elite levels in sport.

[00:25] Welcome to Alicia Quinn and learn more about her accomplishments.

[01:23] How sport prepares you for motherhood.

[02:55] Are her kids involved in sports yet?

[04:31] Learn about her high school experience and her road to the Olympics.

[06:09] Alicia shares more about her college journey as well.

[08:34] How does she feel about the word “sacrifice” in relation to her career?

[09:18] What did her parents do to support her and keep on track?

[10:26] Learn about Alicia’s current work in the world of gymnastics.

[12:11] Her thoughts on mental health and elite level sports.

[14:54] How do you get your mind to calm so that you can do the work?

[16:05] What advice would Alicia give to other parents considering youth sports?

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Alicia on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aliciasacramonequinn/

Alicia on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/asacquinn/

ESPN Press Room - https://espnpressroom.com/us/bios/alicia-sacramone-quinn/

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Activity and motion has always been a part of Alysia Montano’s life. Even as a young child she was constantly moving and wanted to be allowed to play all the same sports as the boys, while still retaining her femininity. Listen as she shares her story, her Olympic journey, and why she’s committed to changing how the world views motherhood and professional sport.

Alysia has had a long and storied career, and it all seemed to be going perfectly, until she decided to start a family. It was then that she realized that being a female athlete is a wonderful opportunity, until it isn’t.

Rather than cave to society’s view of motherhood and professional sports, Alysia is working to create resources and spaces for women to do both. Through &Mother Alysia is taking action because as she says, “I can be a champion and a mother.”

Her story is truly fascinating. She’s even competed twice while significantly pregnant and using those experiences to show that women are capable of so much and mother their children.

Listen as Alysia shares her advice for youth sport moms and her thoughts on the direction of youth sports today. She has so many amazing thoughts for girls in youth sports but also for youth sport athletes in general. We’re looking forward to seeing all that she does for women in sports.

[00:25] Learn about Alysia’s accomplishments and what she’s up to these days.

[03:13] Alysia provides her background on how she got into sport and her Olympic journey.

[06:01] It has always been so important to assert her femininity in sport.

[06:41] How did the flower in her hair get started?

[08:36] Her and her husband always strive to lead with love and remember that they’re part of a team.

[09:50] Alysia shares her thoughts on how youth sports is changing and what she plans to do with her kids.

[13:24] Did she plan to continue competing once she became a parent?

[19:41] Learn about &Mother and Alysia’s dreams for this organization.

[22:15] Hear Alysia’s advice to moms who are working to raise their own youth athletes.

[23:04] What’s next for Alysia?

Agora Sports Network - https://www.agorasportsnetwork.com

&Mother - https://andmother.org/

Alysia’s Website - https://alysiamontano.net/

Alysia on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alysiamontano/

Alysia on Twitter - https://twitter.com/AlysiaMontano

Alysia on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/alysiamontano

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