In this episode of No Former Athlete, we explore the journey athletes face when their competitive careers come to an end. What happens when you’re no longer defined by your sport? As a retired National Champion, NFA host, Erin McGinnis, turns into the guest for this episode and opens up about the emotional and mental challenges of transitioning from the structured world of athletics to everyday life.

We dive into topics like grieving the loss of an athletic identity, finding a new sense of purpose, and how the discipline and mindset built through years of training continue to influence life long after the final game. Whether you're a former athlete or simply navigating a life transition, this episode offers valuable insights into rediscovering who you are when the game is over.

Tune in for an honest and reflective conversation that will resonate with anyone who has ever wondered, "What comes next after sports?"

🎙️ *From Pro Athlete to Coach: Navigating Life After Sports | No Former Athlete* 🎙️

In this episode, we sit down with Todd Mitchell, a former Division I baseball player who was drafted by the New York Yankees, to explore the highs and lows of athletic life and the emotional transition after retiring from sports. Todd shares his journey, from being a top-tier athlete to coaching the next generation of players, and how the lessons learned on the field translate into everyday life.

We dive deep into topics like:

• The emotional challenges of stepping away from competitive sports 🏅

• Finding new purpose and identity beyond being an athlete 🔍

• The importance of being a well-rounded person, not just a player 🌱

• Coaching young athletes and cultivating a positive mindset 🏆

• How sport prepares you for the inevitable wins and losses in life 🎯

Whether you're an athlete, coach, or someone navigating change, this conversation is full of relatable insights, valuable life lessons, and tips on how to embrace new roles as life evolves.

🔔 Don't forget to **like, subscribe**, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on more inspiring stories from former athletes and experts!

🎙️ In this episode, I’m joined by my former college basketball teammate, Ellie Pearson, for a deep dive into life after sports. 🏀 We explore the emotional and mental challenges that come with leaving behind an athletic identity, including the grief, the struggle to find new routines, and the ways that competitive drive never really fades. Ellie opens up about her journey, from the highs of winning a national championship to the unexpected challenges she faced once the games ended. She shares how moving to San Francisco, discovering yoga, and embracing the importance of rest have helped her redefine success and fulfillment. Whether you’re a former athlete or someone curious about the transition from sports to the ‘real world,’ this conversation is packed with insights, relatable experiences, and practical advice. Don’t miss out on this candid and inspiring discussion!

In this episode of No Former Athlete, we sit down with Kurt Swearingen, a retired multi-sport athlete who has seamlessly transitioned into a successful career as an educator. Kurt shares his journey from the football field and baseball diamond to the classroom, discussing how his identity as an athlete continues to influence his life today in retirement. We dive into topics like the enduring competitive spirit, the challenges of aging while staying active, and why he chose not to pursue coaching despite his athletic background. Kurt also reflects on the rituals that still connect him to his sports days and offers valuable insights into how the athlete’s mindset can shape all aspects of life. Whether you're an athlete, a no former athlete, or just curious about the lasting impact of sports, this episode is full of inspiration and wisdom. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more great conversations!

In today’s electrifying episode, we’re joined by Jack Burgeson, a retired swimmer whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. Jack didn’t start swimming until high school, yet he propelled himself to become a collegiate swimmer at DePauw University and is now a dedicated triathlon enthusiast in between his work as a physician. Tune in as Jack shares the adrenaline-pumping highs and gut-wrenching lows of his athletic career, the critical choices that defined his path, and how he continues to fuel his competitive fire long after leaving the college pool. Discover the mindset that keeps him going and why he believes once an athlete, always an athlete.

Today on the No Former Athlete Podcast, we’re joined by 2019 World Cup gold medal-winning athletic trainer, Katie Donnelly. Katie reveals how she transitioned from an active kid trying out every sport imaginable (after School Sports Specialist anyone?) to becoming a vital part of the support staff for professional athletes on the world stage. She shares her conflicted experience immediately following a World Cup victory, and opens up about the complexities of athlete identity, including the extreme highs and lows that often come hand and hand with competition. We discuss the camaraderie and sense of purpose often found in sport, and Katie's insights into the mental and emotional toll of injuries, the sacrifices made for the grueling schedule on the road, and the process of finding a new identity after sports.

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Eversley, an athlete from the South Side of Chicago who played professional basketball internationally, and has now fully bet on himself and his skills as an entrepreneur. Chris shares his experiences, challenges, and triumphs, revealing the resilience and perseverance that have defined his life.

This episode is packed with insights into the mental and physical demands of being an athlete, the importance of family and community support, and the transition from sports to a successful career beyond the court.

Connect with Chris and Overtime Solutions:

• LinkedIn: Overtime Solutions
• Instagram: @overtimesolutionsllc
• Website: overtimesolutions.com

Today on No Former Athlete, we explore the inspiring journey of Alison Wiley, a retired competitive dancer who has faced the complexities of athletic identity, body autonomy, and the transition to motherhood. Alison shares her early beginnings in ballet, her experiences with competitive dance growing up, and her time on her college dance team. She opens up about the struggles of leaving the dance world, the grief associated with losing that part of her identity, and her ongoing battle with perfectionism.

Alison candidly discusses how becoming a mother reignited her passion for dance, the pressures of societal expectations, and the challenges of balancing a career and reconnecting with passions. She delves into the emotional and physical impacts of intense athletic training, the lasting effects on body image, and her efforts to find joy and fulfillment in movement once again.

Tune in to hear Alison's reflections on resilience, the pursuit of new dreams, and the importance of grace and self compassion. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone experiencing identity shifts, looking to reconnect with their passions, or interested in the powerful stories of athletes beyond their competitive years. Join us for this heartfelt and motivational conversation with this no former athlete.

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