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.