Good as Gold with Sarah Hughes

Stoned Cold - John Shuster

In this engaging conversation, John Shuster shares his journey from a small-town curling enthusiast to an Olympic champion. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of his curling career, including the emotional highs of winning a bronze medal and the struggles faced during the 2010 Olympics. Shuster reflects on the importance of teamwork, the impact of sports psychology, and the evolution of curling as a competitive sport. He also shares insights into the upcoming film about his life and the significance of his experiences for future generations of curlers. In this engaging conversation, John Shuster shares his experiences as an Olympic curler, discussing the unique challenges faced during competitions, the importance of camaraderie among athletes, and the emotional journey of winning a gold medal. He reflects on the logistics of curling stones, the significance of Olympic trials, and the evolving competitiveness of the sport. Shuster also touches on his aspirations for the future, including the possibility of competing alongside his children.

Half Pipe Dreams - Kelly Clark

In this episode, hosted by 2002 Olympic figure skating champion Sarah Hughes, we dive deep into the incredible career of Kelly Clark, Olympic gold medalist in snowboarding. Kelly talks about her remarkable journey from discovering snowboarding as a child in Mount Snow, Vermont, to becoming the first American woman to win gold in snowboarding at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games. She shares insightful anecdotes about her experiences in multiple Olympics, the evolution of snowboarding as a sport, and the challenges she faced along the way. Kelly also reflects on her transition from competitive snowboarding to her current life, emphasizing the importance of investing in others and the lasting influence of motherhood. Join us for this captivating conversation filled with laughter, tears, and invaluable life lessons. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 01:57 Snowboarding Career and Medals 06:52 Early Life and Snowboarding Beginnings 11:31 Olympic Journey and Achievements 22:30 Snowboarding's Evolution and Scoring Systems 26:39 Judging Criteria in Snowboarding 27:55 Personal Growth and Retirement Decision 29:58 Challenges in Sochi Olympics 33:38 Adapting to Difficult Conditions 39:18 Reflecting on Olympic Achievements 45:47 Transitioning from Competition to Retirement 50:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections 53:01 Torch or Tin: Quickfire Questions

Balancing Act - Carly Patterson

In this episode of Good As Gold, host Sarah Hughes, the 2002 Olympic figure skating champion, sits down with Carly Patterson, the iconic American gymnast who won the all-around gold medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics at just 16 years old. Carly shares her inspiring journey from discovering gymnastics at a cousin's birthday party to overcoming injuries and achieving Olympic glory. She discusses the pressures of competing on the world stage, the impact of her victories on future generations of American gymnasts, and how she applies the lessons learned from gymnastics to her current roles as a mother, motivational speaker, and leader in her sport. Tune in to hear about Carly's experiences, the importance of mindset, and the joys and challenges of parenting three young children. Don't miss this in-depth and inspiring conversation!   00:00 Balancing Act - Carly Patterson 01:00 Casual Conversation and Background 01:43 Olympic Journey and Experiences 04:29 Medal Memories and Display 07:50 Pre-Competition Routine and Superstitions 10:01 Spectator Experiences at the Olympics 18:06 Gymnastics Beginnings and Training 24:21 Rise to Prominence and Olympic Preparation 30:41 The Broken Elbow: A Setback Before Worlds 31:21 Competing with an Injury: The Worlds Experience 32:30 Post-Worlds Surgery and Recovery 36:17 The Road to the Olympics: Trials and Tribulations 39:51 The Olympic Experience: Competing in Athens 54:47 Life After Gymnastics: Parenting and New Challenges 58:01 Reflecting on Legacy and Future Aspirations 01:05:40 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Running on Ice - Sheila Young

Join Olympic champion Sarah Hughes as she delves into the incredible story of Sheila Young, a legendary figure in speed skating and track cycling. In this episode of Good As Gold, Sheila shares her journey from humble beginnings in Detroit to becoming a world-class athlete, her rigorous training regimens, and the challenges she faced along the way. Sheila also reflects on her experiences as an Olympic mom and offers insights on the evolution of speed skating over the past 50 years. Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with personal anecdotes, Olympic memories, and reflections on a lifetime of athletic achievement.   00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 00:42 Guest Introduction and Innsbruck Anniversary Plans 01:31 Choosing and Competing in Speed Skating Events 04:34 Olympic Medals and Memories 06:22 Training and Superstitions 10:30 Early Years and Family Influence 14:55 Competitive Spirit and Achievements 17:28 Cycling and Cross-Training 23:30 Olympic Reflections and Connections 26:58 Upcoming Event with Dorothy and Peter 27:23 Reflecting on the 50-Year Journey 27:55 Life After the Olympics 30:38 Parenting and Coaching Challenges 33:41 Changes in Speed Skating Over the Years 39:14 Becoming a Teacher 42:39 Family and Legacy 43:55 Looking Forward to the Future 46:58 Torch or Tin: Fun Game 53:03 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Row and Behold - Caryn Davies

In this episode of Good As Gold, host Sarah Hughes interviews Caryn Davies, a three-time Olympic medalist and one of rowing's most decorated athletes. Caryn shares her incredible journey encompassing not only her Olympic successes, including two gold medals, but also her academic achievements from Harvard, Columbia Law School, and Oxford. They discuss the discipline and teamwork integral to rowing and Caryn's experience balancing an elite sports career with academic pursuits. Caryn also reflects on her attempts to return to Olympic competition, the challenges of reintegrating into the training team, and the invaluable lessons she learned about focus, community, and personal growth. Touching on her role as President of the US Olympic and Paralympic Alumni Association, Caryn emphasizes the importance of community and supporting former athletes. The episode includes candid conversations about the highs and lows of elite competition, the significance of team dynamics, and Caryn's commitment to self-improvement and helping others.   00:00 Caryn Davies - Row and Behold 00:52 Discussing Olympic Journey and Medals 03:27 Pre-Competition Routines and Warmups 05:58 Memorable Olympic Moments 08:05 Getting into Rowing 10:44 A Day in the Life of a Rower 13:55 Returning to Competitive Rowing 22:46 Challenges and Team Dynamics 33:49 Reflections on Olympic Selection and Stroke Seat 41:20 The Olympic Experience vs. Other Competitions 43:20 Winning the Olympic Gold Medal 43:57 The Reality of Winning a Gold Medal 45:20 Marketability and Sponsorship in Rowing 45:20 Considering Competing for Great Britain 45:20 The Torch or Tin Game 53:42 The Challenges of Big Law 01:04:35 Parenting and Life Lessons 01:04:35 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans