Especially for Athletes Podcast

• 140. Responding to Bullying: How Athletes Can Lead with Empathy and Action

  In episode #140 of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we tackle a powerful and emotional topic: bullying. We explore the critical role that athletes, coaches, and parents can play in addressing and preventing bullying, especially in schools. Through a video that went viral, we dive deep into the heart of bullying, the leadership shown by a young boy standing up to bullying, and how athletes can help in these situations. Key Takeaways: Athletes as Leaders in Bullying Prevention – The episode highlights how athletes can use their position of influence to step in when they see bullying. By simply showing empathy and offering support to the victim, athletes can create a culture of kindness. We discuss how a football coach shared a moving video with his team, urging them to be leaders who stand up for others in difficult situations. Empathy First, Action Second – It’s not just about confronting the bully, but more importantly, about showing care for the victim. The real work comes from addressing the bullying and offering support by including the victim and making them feel valued. Simple gestures like asking “Are you okay?” or inviting them to join in activities can make a world of difference. Bullying Isn’t Just a High School Problem – Bullying happens most frequently in middle school and junior high, with over 70% of students witnessing it. Addressing bullying needs to be a constant conversation, not just a one-time discussion. Athletes, especially those in leadership positions, can use their social influence to make a lasting impact. The Heart of Leadership – We explore the deeper emotional and psychological factors that drive bullying behavior. By understanding that many bullies act out due to their own insecurities and struggles, we highlight the importance of showing compassion for both the victim and the bully. The Power of Empathy and Action – We wrap up with a powerful message about how true leadership involves more than just preventing bullying—it’s about changing the culture around you. As athletes, the power of the sportlight can be used not only to uplift your peers but also to create a ripple effect that impacts your school, community, and beyond. This episode challenges athletes, coaches, and parents to be proactive in helping those who are bullied and to set an example of empathy, leadership, and positive action. It’s not just about stopping bullying; it’s about creating an environment where kindness and respect are the norm. Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4AfamilyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast Credits: Hosted by Shad MartinProduced by IMAGINATE STUDIO See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• 139. How to Respond When You Get Cut: Resilience and Dreaming New Dreams

  In episode #139 of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we tackle a tough moment many athletes face, the heartbreak of being cut from a team. Whether you’ve just experienced this setback or are coaching athletes who have, this episode is for you. We explore how to respond with resilience, work ethic, and perseverance, using the stories of remarkable athletes like Doug Meechum, Elsie Murphy, and Jeff Griffin. Key Takeaways: Respond with Work – Doug Meechum shares his story of being cut from his high school team, but instead of giving up, he went to work, got feedback, and returned the next year to earn a spot. As he puts it, “Go to work and make it so they can’t cut you next year.” Resilience is about turning setbacks into motivation and putting in the effort to prove yourself. Dream a New Dream – When Elsie Murphy faced rejection for four years in a row, she didn’t let it define her. Instead, she shifted her focus to become an equipment manager, earning a scholarship and a career in athletics. Similarly, Jeff Griffin, after a life-changing injury, redirected his focus and became a Paralympian. When one dream ends, you can always create a new one and continue to apply your work ethic to something else meaningful. Failure is Not Final – As Michael Jordan famously said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots… I’ve failed over and over again in my life, and that’s why I succeed.” Failure is part of the journey, but it’s how you respond that defines your future success. Whether you keep working or dream a new dream, resilience and perseverance will always lead you to the next step. This episode is a powerful reminder that setbacks are not the end. They are opportunities to rise, to redirect your efforts, and to keep pushing toward your goals, no matter what the road ahead looks like. Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4AfamilyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast Credits: Hosted by Shad MartinProduced by IMAGINATE STUDIO See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• 138. Greatness on the Other Side of Boring” with BYU Football’s Connor Pay

  In this episode, we sit down with BYU football standout Connor Pay just days before the NFL Draft as he prepares to begin his professional career. Connor shares powerful insights about the path to greatness—how it demands sacrifice, repetition, and a willingness to embrace the boredom of consistency. From mastering the art of snapping a football to leading the offensive line with precision, Connor opens up about the behind-the-scenes discipline it takes to perform at an elite level.We also dive into his commitment to using his platform as a well-known athlete to positively influence others, especially young people, in their faith and personal development. This conversation is a reminder that true greatness often lies on the other side of mundane—where consistency becomes second nature and purpose fuels perseverance. Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4AfamilyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast Credits: Hosted by Shad MartinProduced by IMAGINATE STUDIO See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• 137. Lessons from Coach Kelvin Sampson Postgame Interview

  In episode #137 of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we break down a postgame interview with Coach Kelvin Sampson of the Houston Cougars after their dramatic victory over Duke. In this interview, Coach Samson exemplified three of the core principles we emphasize at Especially for Athletes: resilience, preparation, and competing without contempt. We dive into the key lessons that can be learned from his approach to coaching and leading a team: Resilience: Coach Samson reminds us that “no one ever loses at anything as long as you don’t quit.” Resilience is about persevering through challenges, focusing on what’s within your control, and not letting setbacks define you. Win the Hour: The victory wasn’t just about a single game—it was built through countless hours of preparation. Trusting the work you’ve put in and focusing on every moment, no matter how small, is how great success is achieved. “What just happened was not luck, it was work.” Compete Without Contempt: Coach Samson gives credit where it’s due, acknowledging the strength of his team’s opponents and appreciating the competition. True competitors strive for victory but respect those they compete against. In this episode, we break down how these three principles can shape the way you approach sports, life, and leadership. It’s not about luck—it’s about living with purpose and integrity, no matter the stage you’re on. Key Takeaways: Resilience means never giving up, no matter how tough the situation gets. Trusting the hours of preparation you’ve put in is key to achieving success. Competing without contempt means respecting your opponents, even while fiercely striving to win. If you want to build a foundation for long-term success and impact, start by embracing these principles, just like Coach Kelvin Sampson and the Houston Cougars. Remember, success is a byproduct of living a principled life. Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4AfamilyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast Credits: Hosted by Shad MartinProduced by IMAGINATE STUDIO See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• 136. Leaving a Legacy: Lessons from Alex and Brian Zettler

  In episode #136 of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we’re joined by Alex Zettler, former Texas A&M football player and current Georgia Southern coach, and his father Brian Zettler, a legendary athletic trainer who’s worked with the Dallas Cowboys, Utah Jazz, and Dallas Mavericks. Together, they share profound insights into what it takes to leave a lasting legacy in sports—not through stats or accolades, but through perseverance, character, and service. The Zettlers reflect on their individual journeys, from Alex’s experience as a college athlete to Brian’s remarkable career in the sports world. They discuss the true meaning of success, emphasizing how it’s not just about winning games, but about the impact you have on others. Whether you’re a player, coach, or support staff, the lesson is clear: great athletes and professionals are those who uplift others and leave a mark that goes beyond the field or court. Key takeaways from this episode: Perseverance is key: Success isn’t about immediate results; it’s about staying focused and pushing forward despite challenges. Character over recognition: True greatness is built on strong character, not just statistics or awards. Service to others: The legacy of those who serve others—whether through coaching, training, or supporting teammates—leaves the most lasting impact. This conversation is a testament to the power of service, hard work, and the importance of setting an example for others in the sports world and beyond. Tune in to learn from the Zettlers about what it means to leave a legacy that truly matters. Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4AfamilyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast Credits: Hosted by Shad MartinProduced by IMAGINATE STUDIO See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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