Advertise on podcast: Pursuit of Gold with Laura Wilkinson

Welcome to another captivating episode of the Pursuit of Gold podcast, where, this week, Laura engages in an inspiring conversation with Kyle Coon, a paralympian, author, speaker, and a truly  extraordinary individual who has surmounted formidable challenges to chase his aspirations. Kyle's journey commenced at a very early age, when retinoblastoma robbed him of his sight. From experiencing this loss to conquering Mount Kilimanjaro to representing Team USA in the Paralympics, Kyle's narrative epitomizes resilience and unwavering determination in the face of adversity. Throughout the episode, Kyle shares poignant anecdotes from his childhood encounter with cancer, his navigation of the sightless realm, and the pivotal influence of mentor Eric Weihenmayer. He delves into the intricacies of competing as a blind athlete, his collegiate wrestling exploits, his affinity for communal fitness pursuits, and the transformative allure of running and triathlon. As Kyle recounts his extraordinary journey, listeners are given the opportunity to contemplate the significance of resilience, mentorship, and purpose amidst life's challenges, and to partake in a narrative underscored by perseverance and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Kyle's evolution from a visually impaired athlete to a Paralympic contender is explored here today with depth and insight, showcasing the indomitable human spirit's capacity to transcend obstacles and achieve greatness no matter what the odds. Episode Highlights: Kyle's journey from battling retinoblastoma to embracing life without sight The significant role of mentorship, especially from Eric Weinmayer, in shaping Kyle's life Triumphs and challenges faced by Kyle as a blind athlete in rock climbing and wrestling Transition to college life, competitive wrestling at UCF, and the transformative power of group exercise Overcoming unemployment and depression through rediscovering passion in running and triathlon The evolution of Kyle's mindset from endurance challenges to excelling in Paralympic triathlon Experiences of visually impaired triathlon participation, including the role of guides Adapting to Covid-19's impact on Kyle's journey, showcasing resilience in unforeseen circumstances Quotes: "I was diagnosed with a very rare form of eye cancer when I was ten months old. Essentially, I had cancer in both of my retinas, and the doctors immediately wanted to remove my eyes." "I fell in love with running, which morphed into a love and passion for triathlon.” "I strive for excellence. I like to be a high achiever.” "I hated running until I got good at it. It took me about six or seven years to really love it. But I enjoy pushing myself and putting the puzzle of swim, bike, run together." "It's about pushing yourself, finding your breaking point, and then pushing beyond it." "The pursuit of gold, whether in sport or life, drives us to be excellent." "Every time I reached my edge, I was able to push myself a little bit further." "I've had to learn how to cope with not achieving my goals." "The journey to the Paralympics is as much about resilience as it is about performance." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Coaching Sessions with Laura Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with Kyle: Kyle's Website Discovering a Life Without Limits Kickin' It With The KTrain Podcast Kyle's Facebook Kyle's Instagram Kyle's LinkedIn

At just 22 years old, Natalia Grossman’s incredible track record of success includes winning Gold and Silver at the 2021 International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) Climbing World Championships, 19 podium finishes at World Cup events and, most recently, qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Today, this rapidly rising superstar sits down with Laura to candidly discuss a number of topics, including her awe-inspiring journey to the pinnacle of her sport, the trials of relocating for climbing, facing online criticism, and the transformative experience of turning pro. Diving into the complexities of competitive athletics, Laura and Natalia illuminate the mental fortitude required to navigate the highs and lows of elite sports. From the weight of expectations to the quest for balance and mental well-being, they dissect the emotional journey with honesty and vulnerability. The episode unfolds with a raw exploration of the toll of external scrutiny and the healing power of open communication within a strong support network while also offering insights on discipline, resilience, and the profound joy of pursuing one's passion. Sharing her experiences here today, Natalia joins Laura in taking listeners on an inspirational journey of self-discovery that embraces the pursuit of excellence with renewed determination and purpose, serving as a beacon of inspiration for all those seeking to conquer their own challenges and achieve greatness in their endeavors. Episode Highlights: Natalia’s remarkable journey Balancing training, competitions, and schooling Natalia's shift from gymnastics to climbing Confronting online criticism Finding joy in climbing Natalia's triumphs amid setbacks Looking ahead to the Olympic Games and beyond Managing expectations and public scrutiny Quotes: "I was just training for fun, and I ended up winning. Then I thought, 'Well, now I have to keep doing them!'" "I think one of the biggest things that drew me to the sport was how the community was so close and it's a lot smaller of a sport." "It was just new to me to be going to new countries every month with my team and just getting to compete." "You never forget your first World Cup win. It was just so cool having everyone there." "Don't google your name... I think having people around you that have got your back is a big deal." "Getting it out and talking to people who, you know, love and care about you no matter what, I think that's really important." "I'm a lot more than just a climber.” "You can't control what the other person is doing, especially if it's not like a combat sport. You know what I mean? You're not really like controlling the other person necessarily." "When you go, I guess, pro, and then you have sponsors and you feel like you're supposed to perform to their wants and your income can be based on performance, that can sometimes add another layer of pressure." "What's done is done. We can't go back and change it, right. So now this is a new opportunity." "Just listen to your body and if you feel tired, take that rest day. It's okay to take rest days." "If I'm not having fun, it's not worth it. And if I'm not having fun, I'm not going to perform very well." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with Natalia: Natalia's Instagram Natalia's Website

Laura’s guest this week is none other than six-time Olympic Medalist and World Record holder, Ryan Murphy, who details his simply remarkable journey to, and within, the world of elite swimming. From his early days in the pool, following in the footsteps of his competitive siblings, to becoming an internationally revered leader in the realm of swimming, Ryan’s steadfast dedication, intense focus, and unmatched work ethic have elevated him to the status of a true champion in the sport. In today’s very special episode, he and Laura cover it all, including what’s next in his formidable journey, in particular, his preparation for the upcoming 2024 Olympics. Throughout the episode, listeners become privy to valuable insights into the life and mindset of an Olympic champion, as this legendary duo explores such themes as building confidence, managing distractions, handling pressure, and the importance of teamwork. They dive deep into the world of competitive swimming and uncover the invaluable lessons it has to offer, including the significance of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of extraordinary challenges. You definitely do not want to miss this fascinating conversation that provides a rare and invaluable glimpse into the mental and physical preparation that goes into reaching the pinnacle of athletic achievement, achieving Olympic glory, and, above all, pursuing and fulfilling your dreams. Episode Highlights: Ryan Murphy and his road to the highest levels of swimming Race prep and mindset coaching for confidence Managing race day anxiety and Olympic pressure The emotional rollercoaster from selection to Olympic gold The significance of the 100 backstroke for Team USA An in-depth look at the 100 backstroke race strategy The elation of winning Olympic gold Ryan’s dedication in the challenging 200 backstroke His thrilling world record relay experience with Michael Phelps Preparing for the 2024 Olympics Quotes: "I just wanted to be the best at everything." "If I perform the way that I'm capable of, I'll make the team." "You can't just show up to the meet and expect to be able to focus. You have to practice that focus leading up to it and know what you're going to focus on." "In the ready room, you might be nervous, but that's just the baseline of the room." "I'm a product of some of the people I've been around and the people that have helped me." "That's the Olympics; when you're five years old, you see that. Being able to achieve something you had very loose dreams of when you're young, that's a really cool thing to fulfill." "I've never gotten out and been like, 'I shouldn't have pushed myself so hard.'" "That was special for everyone. We knew that was Michael's last race. To have the icon of your sport swimming with you in his last race, that's really special." "I think there's just really quality people in the sport. I really do appreciate that." "The goal for me is always very simple: I like to win. At the same time, if I'm second in the world or third in the world, that's something to be really proud of." "You have to do what's best for you." "Maintaining a healthy perspective is crucial." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with Ryan: Ryan's Website Ryan on X Ryan's Instagram

Two-time Olympian, Olympic Silver Medalist, twelve-time National Champion, NCAA Champion, and World Championship Bronze Medalist, Jessica Parratto, is Laura’s very special guest on the podcast this week. With deep aquatic roots in her family, Jessica’s journey was almost inevitable, as her mother was her coach until age 14, and her father once coached Olympic legend Jenny Thompson. Jessica shares her remarkable story in this episode, from her daring decision to leave home at 14 to train at the National Training Center to her tumultuous Rio Olympics experience, partnership with Delaney Schnell, pursuit of Olympic medals, and specialization in synchronized diving. Jessica’s candid conversation with Laura details her unique upbringing, the parental support in choosing her path, and her journey to becoming an elite diver. Showcasing the power of passion, determination, and strong team support, her journey epitomizes determination and resilience, from pivotal synchronized diving partnership decisions to her comeback from retirement. Her collaboration with Delaney Schnell highlights teamwork, trust, and the relentless pursuit of Olympic glory, and beyond the pool, Jessica's story illuminates her life outside diving, emphasizing her supportive family and deep friendships with fellow divers. Tune in here today to share in this truly fascinating tale of all the sacrifices and joys of chasing Olympic dreams from two superstars who have experienced them firsthand. Episode Highlight: Jessica's aquatic family background Her bold choice to leave home at 14 for National Training Jessica’s Olympic journey Her discovery of a passion for synchronized diving The role of mental strength in her career The importance of setting boundaries for focus and success Navigating the challenges of Olympic trials, embracing the Olympic experience, and dealing with unexpected situations Insights into Jessica’s Rio Olympics experience and post-Rio career plans Adapting to the pandemic's impact on the Tokyo Olympics and making a comeback Demonstrating determination and resilience Synchronized diving intricacies The value of Olympic dreams Quotes: "I did a lot of sports growing up. I did swimming, I did diving, gymnastics, soccer, dance. I mean, I did it all." "My parents made me and my sister feel so comfortable in just wanting to do whatever we wanted to do in life." "I just remember Drew being like, 'Do you think that you can make an Olympic team right now?' And I was just like, 'No.' And he was like, 'Well, I do.'" "I think crazy things can happen in a small amount of time, so don't ever count yourself out.” "It literally changes everything when you think differently, right? And you're like evidence of that right here." "It's so important. It is definitely a difference-maker. And even if you have to preface it like, 'Hey, I don't want to hurt your feelings, I love you guys, but this is just what I need right now. And I just really would love and appreciate that support.’" "It's never just yourself, it's always this army that you have behind you. And so that's what makes it really special." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with Jessica: Jessica's Linktree

Welcome to the latest exciting episode of the Pursuit of Gold podcast, where Laura is joined by the remarkable Katrina Young, a two-time Olympian and five-time world medalist in diving for an inspiring journey through Katrina's life and career. Starting with her outstanding achievements in both gymnastics and diving during her formative years, Katrina's story reflects her steadfast ambition throughout as, despite the fact that her college dreams in sports didn't come to fruition, she persevered, ultimately propelling herself towards Olympic greatness. As she now prepares for the 2024 World Aquatic Championships in Doha and aims for her third Olympic appearance in Paris, Katrina's path is filled with highs, lows, and a focus on authentic competition. Laura and Katrina embark upon this remarkable voyage of ambition, self-discovery, and the relentless pursuit of Olympic gold by delving into Katrina's gymnastics-to-diving transition, her familial inspiration from her Olympian grandmother, her transformative mindset shift, and her candid discussion on handling performance anxiety. This inspiring conversation provides invaluable insights into the trials of Olympic competition, the post-Olympic challenges athletes face, the pursuit of a music career alongside diving, life-altering decisions, and the significance of trust and authenticity in the competitive arena. Katrina Young's captivating journey, balancing both diving and music careers, reminds us that the pursuit of passion and authenticity is the true path to greatness. Don't miss out on this engaging episode, as it resonates with ambition, offers inspiration, and underscores the relentless pursuit of one's dreams. Episode Highlights: Katrina's dual background in gymnastics and diving The profound influence of her grandmother, an Olympian in track and field, on Katrina's ambition and determination The challenges Katrina faced during her college years and the pivotal shift in her mindset The significant transition to coach John Proctor and the crucial moments leading up to the 2016 Olympics The importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself in the competitive world Dealing with the pressures of nerves and performance anxiety as a competitive athlete Katrina's ongoing journey of self-discovery and personal growth in pursuit of Olympic success Exploring post-Olympic challenges, including the phenomenon of "post-Olympic blues," and how music played a healing role Quote: "When you're going after your dreams, you don't feel like you have a choice." "No matter what great things our coach says or our friends say, it's our voice in our head 24/7." "It felt a little bit scary to have that much time to think about the possibilities." "I felt like I had to change who I was to become an Olympian, and that's not the truth." "For me, it's more of a performance than anything." "It's a very ironic mix of emotions for me. Every time going into it, I'm like, “I'm going to throw up.”” "Fear is totally normal. It's a totally human thing. But that is also the only time that you can be courageous." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with Katrina: Katrina's Instagram Katrina's X (Twitter) Katrina's Grandstand Katrina's TikTok

Welcome to a monumental 100th episode of the Pursuit of Gold podcast! In this milestone episode, Laura shares her story, her vision, and the invaluable lessons she has gathered from hosting the podcast.  From the momentous start of this podcast in the challenging year of 2020, Laura's mission has been clear: to bring together the tools, knowledge, and inspiration that athletes need to achieve their greatest goals, both in sports and in life. Through insightful conversations with athletes, coaches, and experts from various disciplines, Laura unveils the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects that fuel champions' journeys. As Laura reflects on her own experiences, you'll discover the wisdom gained from overcoming setbacks, finding new pathways, and redefining one’s identity beyond sports. Her pursuit of gold goes far beyond the physical medals to the pursuit of self-discovery, fulfillment, and resilience.  As you will hear, this 100th episode truly encapsulates the very heart and soul of the Pursuit of Gold podcast, reminding athletes that it's not just about the destination but the incredible journey that transforms them into champions, both on and off the field. Thank you for joining Laura Wilkinson on this epic journey, and here's to the next 100 episodes! Episode Highlights: The birth of the Pursuit of Gold podcast Learning from others Finding fulfillment in sports and life The mental game The pursuit of purpose Embracing change and growth Quotes: "Because as I often say to people, I went to three Olympic games but I only brought home one medal, but it didn't make the other two Olympics failures or regrets or I wish I hadn't gone after it." "Finding fulfillment in your sport carries a lot of weight outside of your sport, too, outside of the pool or the track or the gym or whatever it is. To find that fulfillment in your sport also helps you feel fulfilled outside of your sport." "You don't stand up on the podium and become a champion. You have to become a champion in the dark when nobody is watching in those days, weeks, months, years leading up to that moment that you get to stand on top of the podium." "Gold is a great goal. It is something admirable to work for and to try and achieve. But it's the pursuit that makes you who you are, that makes you incredible." "You don't get to the top of the podium and suddenly everything changes. You have to change in order to stand on top of that podium. You have to change in the pursuit. It's the pursuit of gold that makes you a champion." “I want you to grow into the athlete and the person that you want to be. I am your biggest fan.”  “By listening and sharing this show with your friends, you make it possible to continue on and impact so many people. So a huge, heartfelt thank you for listening and for being here and being a ‘Pursuit Peep.’” Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook

In the latest episode of the Pursuit of Gold podcast, actress, author, emotional coach, and Hollywood professional dancer turned iconic musician Prince’s muse, Robia Scott, takes center stage. Her riveting and candid conversation with Laura here today delves into her storied career, the highs and lows of the entertainment industry, and the sacrifices and life-altering choices made by high achievers in pursuit of their dreams. Beneath all the glitz and glamor, they uncover the emotional and mental struggles that often accompany success, particularly the damaging relationship between body image, food, and self-worth. Throughout the episode, Laura and Robia explore the complex world of emotional eating and its roots in societal pressures and personal insecurities as Robia shares her two-decade-long journey to recognize and address these underlying emotional wounds. Together, they stress the critical significance of seeking help, mentorship, and guidance while underscoring the role of accountability and the power of vulnerability in the healing process. Advocating for self-awareness through journaling and investing in personal growth, this episode is a profound journey into emotional healing and self-discovery, providing valuable guidance for those seeking happiness and fulfillment amid the demands of high achievement and success. Don't miss this opportunity to join Laura and Robia’s insightful conversation today so you, too, can continue on your own path to emotional well-being and self-empowerment. Episode Highlights: Robia Scott's remarkable journey from professional dancer to Prince's muse The sacrifices made in the pursuit of dreams The hidden struggles behind the glamour of a successful career Body image, food, and self-esteem Robia's journey of self-discovery and emotional healing The significance of acknowledging and processing emotions Robia's role as a coach The cycle of emotional eating and its roots in societal pressures The importance of recognizing the underlying emotions driving destructive behaviors Quotes: "In many of our sports, there's this elephant in the room that people don't want to talk about because we're high achievers, we're tough, we think we should be impenetrable, like some kind of superhero." "These escapes might offer temporary relief and comfort, but they can easily become addictive, enslaving, and destructive patterns." "The feelings we're not dealing with are dealing with us." "Awareness is the first step of change. You can't change what you don't know." "If I'm overweight, you just, like, go on a diet. You try to white knuckle things. You try to quit the smoking. You try to stop the addiction. You try to stop drinking the alcohol. But if you don't deal with the root, it just parlays into a different addiction." "I call them counterfeit comforts because they're those comforts that we turn to, that they're an imposter, they give us some temporary satisfaction, some temporary relief, but they're really a counterfeit." "You don't have to be controlled by these…counterfeit comforts. You can overcome that and move past it." "It's important because like you said, we all struggle with it in some ways, so we have to talk about it." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with Robia: Robia Scott Robia's Free Guide

This week Laura is excited to present Dr. Matt Bowers, an associate professor and the director of the Sport Management Program at the University of Texas at Austin. As an expert in athlete development and sports management, Matt is here  to unravel the complexities surrounding the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations that have recently reshaped college athletics.  Throughout the episode, Dr. Bowers unpacks the history and development of NIL regulations, illustrating how they have evolved from initial concepts to the powerful influence they now exert in college athletics. He explores the various advantages NIL offers athletes, such as new avenues for personal branding and financial opportunities. But the discussion isn’t limited to the benefits; Dr. Bowers also delves into the challenges and complexities accompanying these regulations. The conversation sheds light on how NIL has transformed the way college athletes engage with and profit from their sports careers. Additionally, the episode delves into the intricate relationship between NIL regulations and the overall infrastructure of college sports. Dr. Bowers discusses how these regulations have prompted a reevaluation of traditional collegiate sports models and spurred inclusivity, opening doors for diverse revenue streams. However, he also highlights the challenges in valuing athlete contributions and the urgent need for consistent, national-level guidelines to ensure fair practices across all college sports Whether you're a current or future college athlete, parent, coach, or just a sports enthusiast, this episode offers a critical perspective on navigating the new landscape of college sports thriving within the NIL era.  Episode Highlights:  Breakdown of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) and its origins in summer 2021.  The fluctuating dynamics between NIL deals and their influence on college selection.  Trends in NIL partnerships, with an emphasis on social media leverage.  NIL's indirect and direct benefits for colleges and universities. Collective’s role in fundraising and balancing resources for athletic departments.  Potential changes in athlete retention and graduation rates with NIL. Comparing NIL environments between different division levels in the NCAA.  Aspects concerning athletes transitioning from college to professional sports.  Ensuring alignment of NIL opportunities with personal values and genuine interests.  Quotes:   "Sports are this incredibly powerful context, not inherently good or bad, but one of the most powerful contexts for human development."  "I think long-term happiness and fulfillment and wellbeing come from really having a clear sense of who you are, and then how you pursue that."   "There are a number of lawsuits in process right now that I could see fundamentally altering the relationship between student athletes and universities here in the not too distant future." “I recognize this could be transformative for some families… for their kid to be able to pursue an NIL deal in high school that could change the trajectory of an entire family.” “We've jumped the shark in terms of what we require of an athlete to even be able to put themselves in a position to get to a school like Texas. And so now we're layering on, on top of that.” Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Episode 76: Developing a Competitive Mindset with Sports Psychiatrist Dr. T Episode 83: Growing into a Leader with Swimming Olympic Medalist Elizabeth Beisel Episode 89: Fall in Love with Failing with 3x World Champ Softball Player Haylie McCleney Episode 91: Think Big, Act Small with 2x Olympic Medalist Skier Shannon Bahrke Episode 95: Courage is a Learned Skill with High Diver David Colturi Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with Matt: Matt’s LinkedIn Matt’s Website

Joining Laura on the podcast this week is Naya Tapper, a thoroughly remarkable 2020 Olympian and professional women's rugby player who, after earning All-American track and field honors in high school, began her rugby career at UNC Chapel Hill where she starred from 2012-2016. Having turned professional in 2016, Naya has since become the All-Time leading try scorer for USA Women’s Eagles, and some highlights from her illustrious career include the 2017 Sydney Sevens Player of the Final, 2017 Sydney Sevens Dream Team, 2017 Vegas Sevens Dream Team, 2018 Rugby World Cup second leading try scorer, and 2018 HSBC Dream Team. She has also earned a silver medal at the 2017 Dubai Sevens Tournament, a gold medal at the 2019 Biarritz Olympique Pays Basque, a silver medal at the 2019 Pan American Games, and was a member of USA Rugby’s 2020 Olympic team that competed in Tokyo. Naya's incredible odyssey from her collegiate discovery of rugby to Olympic glory, as shared here today stands as a resounding testament to her steadfast resilience and dedication. Together, she and Laura discuss navigating the challenges of professional rugby, the mental toughness of elite athletes, appearing on Project Runway, and the journey to the Tokyo Olympics. Naya's passion for supporting youth rugby players through the Naya Tapper Scholarship and her dynamic brand, "Naya on Fiya” shine brightly throughout the episode, and listeners will also gain a glimpse into her aspirations beyond her athletic career, particularly in the realm of sports business. Naya's remarkable story is one that resonates far beyond sports, exemplifying the power of unwavering perseverance and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams. Episode Highlights: Naya's journey from discovering rugby in college The importance of having a backup plan in professional rugby Overcoming adversity and making a comeback in the sport Building a personal brand and preparing for the Olympics Highlighting the beauty of diversity and unity in sports Favorite international rugby destinations, like Dubai and South Africa Insights into the Olympic selection process and the importance of staying healthy The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on training and team dynamics Naya’s future aspirations Quotes: "It was destiny because my college coach had connections with the national rugby team." "I got cut from the team. My immediate reaction was, 'I'll just go back to North Carolina and start applying for PT schools.'" "It's always for me, like, 'Okay, what's the next move? How do I get back on my feet?'" "It was nice to be able to chill and relax and let my body decompress and spend time with family and friends that you miss out on a lot when you're full time in this type of profession." "As long as I can stay healthy and continue performing at the level I am, I have the best shot I can possibly provide myself." "Sports have literally changed my life. So to be able to provide that opportunity for people who also want to have that experience, I think was really important to me." "Nobody really knows how to sell you better than you can sell yourself." "I've officially strayed away from PT school mainly because I really don't want to go back to school." "I think something that I've gained a passion for is just sports business." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with Naya: Naya Tapper

How to Create a Thriving Team Culture with Coach J.P. Nerbun Laura’s very special guest this week is J.P. Nerbun, founder and co-host of the highly acclaimed sports leadership podcast, Coaching Culture. With an accomplished career as a professional basketball coach spanning over a decade, J.P. Nerbun has become a world-renowned leadership coach, sports consultant, and visionary founder of TOC, a leading global sports-consulting and coaching business. Throughout his career, he and his team have provided personalized coaching and practical resources to hundreds of leaders across various industries, including sports, education, medicine, and business. He is also the acclaimed author of Calling Up: Discovering Your Journey to Transformational Leadership and The Culture System: A Proven Process for Creating an Extraordinary Team Culture. J.P.’s ‘The Culture System Online Training Platform’ launched earlier this year. Drawing from his unique perspective as a former athlete, J.P. provides actionable guidance tailored for coaches, athletes, and parents alike seeking to elevate their leadership and culture-building skills. He goes on to share his personal journey and rich leadership experience, and offers insights into effective coaching practices, parental involvement, strategies for handling challenging situations, and the keys to achieving success. Together with Laura, J.P. also delves into the critical role of team culture, crafting coaching philosophies, nurturing relationships in youth sports, and addressing abuse in sports with a positive approach. Brimming with a wealth of wisdom on fostering exceptional team cultures and honing leadership abilities in the sports world, the insights discussed by J.P. and Laura here today will undoubtedly ignite your passion to create positive and impactful experiences in the realm of sports and beyond.  Episode Highlights: Team culture's crucial role Crafting coaching philosophy Building relationships in youth sports J.P.'s transformative journey and experience in culture and leadership Addressing abuse in sports and coaching with a positive impact Effective coaching and parental involvement Handling challenging situations Keys to success Quotes: "If someone is tearing you down as a human being, they criticize your play, that's one thing. But especially to be critical of you as a human being constantly, that you feel less, you feel like you're not worthy... just walk away." "I wish I could go back so much and just tell that younger self to, hey, just tell him to stop. Just tell him, this doesn't work for me." "I'm passionate, so I can be really high, and I can be really low. That used to be my excuse.” "We want to create an environment that's intrinsically motivated for athletes, where they just want to show up and work hard and have a good attitude because that's who they want to be." "My job as your coach is not to make you an Olympic gold medalist. My job is to create an atmosphere and an environment where you can become the very best that you can be." "Your philosophy is like the outline; you allow the players to come in and color it in." "Share it as an observation, not as a judgment. Be curious, not judgmental." "The best way to invite change in others is to first change yourself." "A great leader creates a future that wasn't possible without them." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with J.P.: TOC Culture

Courage is a Learned Skill with High Diver David Colturi Laura joins forces with professional cliff diver, coach, and performance expert, David Colturi for this week’s installment of the Pursuit of Gold podcast. One of the standout cliff divers over the last decade, David has accumulated 14 podiums in 52 starts, including becoming the youngest ever winner of a World Series event at the age of 24. After returning from the enforced World Series break, he was narrowly edged out of the permanent places in 2021 and will return to the 27m platform as a wildcard this year. David also currently serves as a coach, runs high performance workshops, and is a gifted public speaker. Together with Laura, David embarks on an exhilarating journey that delves into such topics as his awe-inspiring transformation from a budding diver to an experienced professional, the pivotal role of balance in the pursuit of one's dreams, and the fearless approach required to confront and conquer personal fears head-on. From being determined to conquer the heights of high dives to the heart-pounding moments during his debut at the Red Bull Cliff Diving event in Corsica, this episode is a treasure trove of adrenaline-pumping narratives and invaluable life lessons. Our dynamic duo also go on to share intimate anecdotes and profound insights into the psychological and emotional battles they've waged during their illustrious careers, from grappling with fear and self-doubt to contending with the physical toll exacted by high-speed impacts. Today’s conversation transcends the realm of diving and touches upon the profound importance of setting well-defined objectives, aligning actions with one's authentic values, and embarking on a purpose-driven journey throughout our lives. If you’ve been wanting to make some crucial mindset shifts like David, in order to perform better, love your sport again or grow your confidence, start getting excited for my awesome Black Friday bundles that are here now but only for a limited time! Every single amazing bundle also comes with a FREE ticket into a new workshop I’ll be hosting in January called Turning Obstacles into Opportunities. Make sure you don’t miss this window of opportunity- go check out these special bundles at LauraWilkinson.com/blackfriday! Episode Highlights: David’s remarkable journey Dedication and sacrifices How college athletes grapple with pursuing their sport professionally or exploring alternative career paths David's leap into professional cliff diving Red Bull Cliff Diving events David's inaugural experience in Corsica Unforeseen setbacks and the power of resilience and a positive attitude Overcoming fear and early challenges in high diving The journey toward control and focus Peer pressure and accountability in overcoming platform hesitation and building confidence Quotes: "Courage is a learned skill just like anything else." "These tough days, these are the ones that define you. This is the good stuff." "You're just competing against yourself... all you've got to do is be better than you were yesterday." "You’ve just got to sometimes do what you’ve got to do. And it can be a scary road, but I think you learn a lot of lessons in that, too." "So it's kind of just learning to take those skills we learn in our sport and applying it into our life." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura's Black Friday Sale Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook Connect with David: David's Website David's Instagram

How to Let Go of Expectations with Olympic Gold Medalist Laura Wilkinson Laura goes solo today to speak directly with listeners regarding the intricate issue of expectations that can plague athletes across all levels. Her wealth of experience shines through as she adeptly guides us all through the nuanced landscape of expectation management, providing not only invaluable insights but also practical strategies to shift focus from the burdensome weight of unrealistic pressures to the exhilarating pursuit of goals and personal growth. Laura also delves into the emotional ramifications of expectations, shedding light on how their emotional nature can lead to disappointment, potentially eroding athletes' self-esteem and confidence. A key theme highlighted in this episode is the essential distinction between goals and expectations, with Laura emphasizing that goals should be concrete, measurable, and underpinned by a well-defined plan, while expectations often manifest as vague desires devoid of concrete strategies. By encouraging athletes to view their goals as destinations and expectations as the vehicles of their journey, Laura inspires a profound mindset shift that enables athletes to sidestep undue pressure and instead immerse themselves in the rewarding process of athletic excellence. A truly essential listen, today’s episode is a beacon of guidance in particular for athletes seeking to master the art of expectation management and cultivate a goal-oriented mentality along their path to athletic success.  More outstanding guidance will also be available through Laura's upcoming Black Friday Sale, where she will unveil a trove of valuable resources designed to reshape mindsets and elevate athletic performance. Join the Black Friday Waitlist here to ensure you're among the first to access these transformative offerings. Episode Highlights: Understanding the critical difference between goals and expectations Navigating the emotional challenges and potential pitfalls of expectations Expectations as motivators The power of goal-centric focus Leveraging expectations for daily training and character growth Laura's upcoming Black Friday Sale Quotes: "So many of us are carrying the weight of either our own expectations or the expectations of others, whether it be a coach, a parent, teammates, the media, whoever." "Expectations are desires, but they don't have any precise shape or boundaries.” "I really despise the term ‘realistic goals’ because when people say ‘realistic’, they're trying to say, “Set a goal you can already do,” and that's not a goal." "Goals are stable, yet they're pliable enough to adapt to changing circumstances." "Your goal is where you are aiming. That is your final destination." “The secret to not confuse expectations with goals is to let your expectations direct the quality and effort of your training, not your end result.” "Let's be goal-oriented and goal-focused and really just expect that we are going to train with quality, that we are going to train with integrity, every single day." Links: The Pursuit of Gold Website Top 10 Mental Skills Guide Laura's Black Friday Sale Waitlist Laura’s Social Media: Laura’s Instagram Laura’s Facebook