The Athlete Journal

Episode 25: Bri Nelson

Former University of Michigan track athlete Bri Nelson talks about her journey as a thrower and life outside of sport. Bri reflects on her collegiate recruitment process and how she became one of the top throwers in Michigan her senior year of high school. After struggling to progress her first couple years in college, a coaching change prompted a whole new approach to training. By the end of her senior year, Bri set the school record in the indoor weight throw. Despite having more eligibility, Bri stopped competing when she entered grad school due to a lingering back injury. She continued to support her teammates as an elected captain. On top of this, she began her transition from student athlete to student activist. Bri founded Wolverines Against Racism along with Roland Amarteifio to create space for student athletes to talk about the current racial injustices in our nation. She also worked hard to complete her Masters of Public Health in Nutrition Sciences. Having gone through her own journey of overcoming the pressure society puts on body image and toxic views on what "wellness" should look like, Bri has made it her mission to educate others on what it truly means to be healthy. She works to inform others on intuitive eating, how to respect what your body is telling you, and having a positive body image. You can follow her informative Health & Wellness account @betterwithbri_. Bri's episode reminds us to not be afraid of taking detours, and embracing who we are as people, not just athletes.

Episode 24: Gina Sereno

Former University of Michigan cross country and track standout Gina Sereno talks about her transition into the world of Triathlon. After growing up playing multiple sports, Gina didn't decide to focus on solely running until her junior year of high school. Despite joining Michigan's cross country and track program as a walk-on, Gina ended her collegiate career with five Big Ten individual titles and a seven-time All American. On top of that, she graduated with an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Masters in Management. Her love for training, desire to challenge herself, and consistency led her to not only success on the track, but in triathlon as well. Gina talks about being recruited by USA Triathlon's Collegiate Recruitment Program, and how it allowed her to get the mentorship and coaching she needed to be competitive in two new sports- swimming and cycling. As a pro triathlete, she trains 20 hours a week on top of working full time at NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab. Gina sheds light on the training and technique required to compete at the highest level, what it's been like traveling the world to compete, and how she manages her busy schedule. As one of the hardest workers I know, Gina's story is nothing short of inspiring.

Episode 23: Julia St-Juste (Hall)

Julia St-Juste (Hall) ran in her first track race when she was 8 years old. She raced 400m around the track against one other girl. They took turns surging ahead of each other, and Julia got her first taste of victory when she crossed the line ahead. Since that moment, she knew track and field was the sport for her. Julia talks about what it was like competing for both her school and club team in Colorado growing up, and how she decided to compete at the University of Michigan. At Michigan, she was a member of the indoor 4x4 team that set the school record. Despite her success with the relay, Julia experienced many ups and downs as a college athlete. She talks about what it was like dealing with injury, the pressure she put on herself, learning how to find her identity outside of track, and regaining confidence as an athlete. Julia went on to compete for the University of Georgia for her final year of eligibility as a graduate student, where she was able to wrap up her collegiate athlete experience knowing she gave it everything she had. Today, Julia’s love for competing and appreciation for sport manifests itself in her everyday life. She is the biggest cheerleader for her sister, who will be competing at the Track and Field World Championships in the Heptathlon, and her husband Ben, who plays for the Washington Commanders. Despite being “retired”, Julia has a feeling she will find her way back to the sports world. Of that, I have no doubt.

Episode 22: Kathryn House

Former University of Michigan cross country and track star Kathryn House talks about building confidence, the importance of self advocacy, and finding joy in competition. Growing up a multi-sport athlete, Kathryn reflects on her decision to choose running over hockey, knowing she wanted to compete collegiately at a high level. She reflects on the day she committed to  U of M after watching the Wolverines compete at the Big Ten Cross Country meet, and feeling welcomed by the women who would eventually become her teammates and lifelong friends. At Michigan, she was a multiple time Big Ten Scorer, received All Region honors in cross country, and narrowly missed making the NCAA Final in the 5k in the East Regional Preliminary round.  While Kathryn often made racing look easy, she battled many injuries and overcame various challenges to find success on the track. Behind the scenes, she worked harder than ever to figure out a training plan that worked for her, communicate what she needed, and get herself to the line not only ready to compete, but excited to race.  Kathryn discusses how sport has allowed her to learn how to advocate for herself and develop skills that have served her well in life outside of running. Maddy and Kathryn reminisce on their times at Michigan together, and how that experience has shaped their lives forever.

Episode 21: Keith Button

Former Valparaiso Cross Country and Track athlete Keith Button talks about his sports journey, passion for the outdoors, willingness to push his limits, and how he has fallen in love with the sport of climbing. Growing up in Farmington, MI, Keith's first sport was hockey. He discusses how he eventually discovered his talent for running, the life lessons he has learned through the sport, and meaningful friendships made along the way. After studying mechanical engineering at Valparaiso University, Keith went on to Michigan State where he got his PhD in biomechanical engineering. At MSU, Keith joined an Outdoors Club, where he first was introduced to climbing. Ten years later, climbing has not only brought him a sense of joy, accomplishment and adventure, but it was also the sport that led him to meet his wife as well as many other friends in the climbing community. Keith talks about how he finally found balance in his life, the thrill of tough climbs, and his how his willingness to venture into the unknown has led him to where he is today. A huge inspiration for anyone looking to try new things outside their comfort zone, meet new people, and tap into their adventurous side, this episode is one you won't want to miss.