In this episode of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we focus on one of our core principles: Seek to bless, not to impress. This principle encourages athletes to shift their focus from seeking validation or admiration to genuinely lifting others up.

We dive into a deeply impactful conversation with Abby Cox, the First Lady of Utah, who works closely with the Especially for Athletes program and its Unified Sports initiative. Abby shares a touching story about a young man who, despite people being friendly, had to ask others if they would be his friend. His words—“People were friendly, but they weren’t my friend”—reveal the emotional depth of what it means to truly care for someone.

Abby’s work with Unified Sports has made a huge difference in the lives of athletes, teaching them to look beyond surface-level kindness and truly see others for who they are. This conversation leads us into an exploration of how we can take this principle into our everyday lives, both as athletes and as individuals in our communities.

Key Discussion Points:

• The difference between being friendly and being a true friend.
• Why being a friend takes work, sacrifice, and emotional investment.
• Abby Cox’s impactful work with Unified Sports and how athletes are stepping up to serve others.
• The importance of seeking to bless others without expecting anything in return.
• Why athletes should strive to be a positive force in their communities and teams by living with eyes up and doing the work.

This episode highlights the power of real connection and how athletes, coaches, and parents can influence their communities by going beyond superficial interactions. Seek to bless, not to impress—because when you lift others, you elevate yourself in the process.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful episode of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we dive into the core principle of resilience, with insights from national champion coach Diljeet Taylor. As the head coach of BYU’s cross-country teams, Coach Taylor recently led the women’s team to a National Championship. She shares her philosophy on resilience, explaining that true growth happens when athletes are willing to embrace the “dark place”—the discomfort and pain that comes with pushing beyond their limits.

In this episode, we reflect on her message that resilience requires a decision to face hardship before it even comes. It’s about knowing that discomfort is inevitable in the pursuit of excellence, and instead of running from it, we must embrace it and keep moving forward. Coach Taylor’s insights not only apply to cross-country but to all sports and life challenges.

Key Discussion Points:

• The concept of the “dark place” in sports and how to prepare for it mentally before facing challenges.
• The importance of embracing discomfort and how it leads to growth and success.
• How resilience can be built by committing to the process, even when it’s tough.
• Real-life examples of how athletes can push through adversity, whether in sports or in life.
• The role of having a clear why to motivate you through the tough times.

Whether you’re an athlete facing tough competition or someone working toward personal growth, this episode will inspire you to push through challenges, keep your focus, and embrace the discomfort that leads to resilience and long-term success.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we explore the core principle of compete without contempt through the lens of NFL legend and future Hall of Famer Eric Weddle. Eric, who played at the University of Utah before having an illustrious NFL career, shares his unique perspective on competition within a team—highlighting the importance of pushing your teammates to be their best while supporting them along the way.

We dive into a powerful conversation about how to compete fiercely against your teammates in practice, not out of contempt, but out of a desire to make everyone better. Eric’s philosophy was central to his long-lasting career and his leadership, where he helped younger players grow while still striving to outperform them in drills. His approach to competition inside the locker room and on the field offers key insights into what it means to truly contribute to a team’s success.

This episode also explores the broader implications of competing without contempt—how team captains can foster this mentality, how athletes can embrace the grind even when they don’t feel like it, and how the right leadership can make all the difference in building a championship-caliber team.

Key Discussion Points:

• Eric Weddle’s philosophy of competing with teammates in a way that pushes everyone to excel.
• The importance of helping others grow, even when they’re competing for the same position.
• Why competing without contempt is crucial for fostering true team unity and success.
• The role of team captains in creating a culture of healthy competition.
• Insights on how to be a better teammate by showing up to push others to their best.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode offers actionable insights into building a competitive environment that encourages growth, respect, and, ultimately, team success. Don’t miss this discussion on competing with integrity and making your team better, together.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this first episode of the year, we kick off our new format by diving deep into one of the core principles of Especially for Athletes: Win the Hour. Time is one of our most valuable resources, and how we use it can make all the difference in achieving success both on and off the field.

Join us as we explore practical strategies for maximizing your time and focusing on the tasks that matter most. We’ll discuss how to break down your goals into actionable steps, the power of prioritization, and how to stay disciplined in the face of distractions. This episode is packed with actionable tips to help athletes, coaches, and parents start the year strong and stay on track to achieve their goals.

Key Discussion Points:

• Brendan Schooler’s perspective on working in silence and investing time for success.

• The importance of consistency in achieving long-term goals.

• Insights from Nick Saban on the difference between spending and investing time.

• How athletes can invest time wisely to build the habits and skills needed for success.

• Practical advice for staying disciplined and focused when you don’t feel like doing the work.

This episode is all about taking action, investing your time wisely, and staying committed to your goals—because, as Brendan said, your goals don’t care how you feel. They only care about the work you put in.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this inspiring episode of "The Sportlight Podcast," we sit down with Stanford Soccer player Duncan Jarvie, a long-time member of the Especially for Athletes (E4A) program. Duncan shares his incredible story of resilience, offering valuable insights for young athletes who have faced the disappointment of being cut from a team or other setbacks in their athletic journey.

Through his experiences, Duncan demonstrates the power of perseverance, determination, and a positive mindset in overcoming challenges and achieving success. This episode is a must-listen for athletes, parents, and coaches looking to encourage growth and resilience both on and off the field.

Key Discussion Points:

• Duncan Jarvie’s personal journey and the challenges he faced as an athlete.
• Lessons learned from the experience of being cut from a team.
• How the principles of E4A helped Duncan persevere and find success.
• Advice for athletes navigating setbacks and striving for improvement.
• Encouragement for parents and coaches to support athletes through tough times.

Join us for an uplifting and motivational conversation that reminds us all of the strength it takes to rise above adversity and keep pushing forward.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://especialyforathletes.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "The Sportlight Podcast," we welcome former college lacrosse player and current lacrosse coach, Melissa Nash, for an inspiring conversation centered around women’s sports. Melissa shares her insights on the unique challenges and exciting opportunities that come with coaching female athletes, providing valuable perspective for anyone involved in youth sports.

We also dive into the core principles of Especially for Athletes (E4A), discussing how these principles apply to both male and female athletes and why they’re crucial for personal and athletic growth. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or parent, Melissa's experiences and thoughts on fostering resilience, strength, and confidence in young women in sports are sure to resonate.

Key Discussion Points:

• Unique challenges and opportunities in women’s sports.
• Melissa Nash’s experiences and insights as both a player and coach.
• Tips for effectively coaching female athletes.
• The importance of E4A’s core principles in building confident, resilient athletes.
  Encouragement for coaches, parents, and athletes to embrace their journey in sports.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation filled with wisdom for athletes, parents, and coaches alike, only on "The Sportlight Podcast" by Especially for Athletes.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://especialyforathletes.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "The Sportlight Podcast," we explore a powerful quote from pro beach volleyball player, model, business owner, mother, and wife, Gabby Reece. When asked how she manages to juggle so many responsibilities, Gabby’s response was both simple and profound: “I had to ask myself, where is the energy best placed right now in my life?”

This question aligns closely with one of the core Especially for Athletes (E4A) principles—winning the hour. In our discussion, we unpack what it means to strategically focus your energy and how making conscious decisions about where to invest your time can lead to greater success, balance, and fulfillment.

Join us as we dive into the concept of winning the hour and explore how athletes, parents, and coaches can prioritize their energy in a way that creates impactful and positive results. This episode is all about practical tips for making the most of your time and energy, both on and off the field.

Key Discussion Points:

• Gabby Reece’s wisdom on prioritizing energy and how it applies to everyday life.
• The E4A principle of winning the hour—what it means and how to apply it.
  Strategies for athletes, parents, and coaches to focus their energy for maximum impact.
• How to make mindful decisions that align with your values and goals.
• Encouragement to assess where your energy is best placed during different phases of life.

If you've ever felt stretched thin or wondered how to balance competing priorities, this episode offers guidance and inspiration. Tune in to find out how you can make the most of each hour, only on "The Sportlight Podcast" by Especially for Athletes.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://especialyforathletes.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this timely episode of "The Sportlight Podcast," we focus on a critical yet often overlooked part of an athlete's journey—navigating life after the spotlight dims. With fall sports coming to a close, many young athletes are facing the challenge of transitioning away from the field, court, or track, and adjusting to a new reality.

To shed light on this sensitive topic, we revisit a powerful conversation with Max Hall, former NFL quarterback, who shares his own experience of transitioning from the NFL to a very unexpected low point—finding himself in the back of a police car. Max’s story is one of profound personal growth, self-reflection, and resilience, offering valuable lessons for athletes who are struggling with life after sports.

This episode serves as a guide for athletes, parents, and coaches to understand the emotional and psychological aspects of stepping away from competitive sports, and how to handle this transition with strength and grace. Max’s insights remind us that while the spotlight may turn off, the journey doesn’t end—it simply shifts, offering new opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Key Discussion Points:

• The emotional and psychological challenges athletes face when the spotlight turns off.
• Max Hall’s candid story of life after the NFL, including the lowest points and lessons learned.
• How to prepare for and navigate the transition out of competitive sports.
• Practical advice for athletes, parents, and coaches during this critical period.
• Encouragement for finding purpose and new passions beyond the field.

Whether you're an athlete facing the end of your season or someone seeking guidance during a time of change, this episode is filled with wisdom and support. Join us for an enlightening conversation, only on "The Sportlight Podcast" by Especially for Athletes.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://especialyforathletes.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.