What happens when an athlete's passion fades, but their entire identity is wrapped up in their sport? In this episode I sat down with two distinctly qualified experts to talk about the psychological and emotional journey athletes face during career transitions: Tessa West, NYU Professor of Psychology and bestselling author of Jerks at Work and Job Therapy, and Kirsten Cooper, former U.S. Alpine Ski Team athlete turned clinical and performance psychologist.

We unpack how athletes grapple with identity crises, ambivalence, and systemic barriers when considering life beyond sports. Powerful questions like: "Can I still be myself without my sport?", "Is passion-driven work a healthy pursuit?", and "How do I handle the guilt and uncertainty of moving on?"

Does that resonate? You will gain valuable strategies to navigate transitions, maintain curiosity, and foster resilience, learning how athletes (and non-athletes alike) can redefine satisfaction and success. If you're contemplating a significant career or life change, or simply seeking deeper fulfillment, this conversation is for you.

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This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.