Elevation Nation
Elevation Nation is a movement to shape resilient leaders by elevating mental fortitude.
Join Sam Panitch and Parker Yablon each week as they sit down with a new Elevator: a bold thinker, creator, or leader who’s using mental fortitude to overcome adversity, lead with purpose, and make an impact.
From entrepreneurs and pro athletes to musicians, wellness experts, and changemakers, Elevators come from all walks of life - but they all have one thing in common: mental fortitude that helps them thrive in the real world.
Elevation Nation
From Pain to Purpose: Jimmy Gavin’s Journey
Elevator No. 200: Jimmy Gavin is a former professional basketball player who earned an NCAA scholarship at 23 after never playing a minute of high school ball. His story is shaped by living with Crohn’s disease, the loss of his younger brother, and years of mental health struggles.
Through therapy, self-reflection, and an unshakable mindset, Jimmy found healing, reclaimed his passion for basketball, and built a seven-year pro career. He shares lessons in resilience, emotional growth, and the importance of expressing vulnerability both on and off the court. Now, he's working on The Den Collective, the first NIL fund for Wisconsin-Parkside athletics.
00:00
Introduction to Jimmy Gavin's Journey
02:21
Early Life and the Impact of Sports
04:02
Health Challenges and Diagnosis of Crohn's Disease
17:09
Transition to College and Family Tragedy
23:47
Mental Health and Seeking Help
30:32
The Power of Questions in Personal Growth
34:00
The Journey to Becoming a College Basketball Player
43:48
Transitioning from College to Professional Basketball
49:53
The Importance of Mindset and Gratitude
54:47
Preparing for Life Beyond Basketball
