Smalls Talk

060 - Mental Health and Identity in Athletic Spaces ft. Kelsey O'Connor

Tom is joined by Former Division 1 Softball Player and Motivational Speaker Kelsey O'Connor to discuss the significance of building trust through shared experiences and the impact of athletic injuries on identity. Kelsey shares her journey through injury, isolation, and the emotional challenges of being a part of a sports team. She discusses the impact of her experiences on her identity and the importance of advocacy for mental health within athletic environments. Kelsey also reflects on her transition to public speaking and how her story resonates with others, emphasizing the power of empathy and personal growth in overcoming adversity.

059 - Leadership Lessons in Coaching ft. Brittany Rucker

Tom is joined by Senior International Coach Brittany Rucker to discuss the complexities of coach-athlete relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication, setting expectations, and creating a safe environment for feedback. Tom and Coach B discuss how these elements contribute to personal growth and performance, and the significance of finding the right fit between coaches and athletes. They also explore how the environment can impact success and the dynamics of competition within a team.

058 - Life After the Olympics ft. Jourdan Delacruz

Tom is joined by two-time Olympian Jourdan Delacruz to discuss Jourdan's journey into weightlifting, her experiences at the Olympic Training Center, and the emotional challenges faced during the Olympics, particularly the contrasting experiences between Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. Jourdan shares insights on the importance of support systems, the realities of life in the Olympic Village, and her reflections on identity and mental health after competition. Jourdan also shares her vision for 'Her Athlete,' a platform she created aimed at providing resources and support for female athletes, emphasizing the significance of holistic approaches in athlete care and the value of a strong support system.

057 - Lessons From Player Development ft. Steve Dagostino

Considered one of the best basketball development coaches in the country, Steve Dagostino drops in to talk about his experience working with high level athletes. Dags joins Tom to discuss his journey in building Dags Basketball and Maximize Basketball, the importance of accountability in youth sports, and the challenges posed by the American basketball system. Tom and Steve delve into various aspects of coaching, player development, and the nuances of working with different athlete demographics. They discuss the importance of situational training, the emotional landscape of NBA pre-draft experiences, and the value of consulting with coaches.

056 - Navigating Meet Day Pressure ft. Brittany Rucker

In this special bonus episode, Tom is joined by Coach Brittany Rucker to explore the mental aspects of meet day, emphasizing the critical role of mindset, self-awareness, and emotional resilience in facing challenges. They discuss strategies for athletes to manage expectations, control self-talk, and set clear intentions to boost performance. The conversation highlights the importance of distinguishing personal goals from external pressures and stresses the necessity of having a well-thought-out plan for both success and setbacks in the competitive environment.