Career Clarity with Athletes: A 2ndwind Podcast with Ryan Gonsalves

143: Aleisha McCall: Building a Business - Lessons from an Athlete Entrepreneur


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Aleisha’s journey from elite synchronized figure skating to founding a rockstar media company is inspiring, and a masterclass in translating athletic discipline into business success. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, we dive into the gritty reality of career transition: the identity crises, the $35,000 gamble that changed everything, and why "trust the process" isn't just a sports cliché, it's the secret to outlasting 98% of startups. If you've ever felt lost after a major life pivot, or wondered how to turn your competitive edge into career fuel, this episode is your playbook.


Topics Covered:

1️⃣ The Athlete’s Dilemma

  • Why retirement feels like "losing your identity overnight"
  • How Aleisha’s small-town grit got her to World Championships (and why it matters in business)

2️⃣ The $35,000 Wake-Up Call

  • Taking out a high-interest loan without telling a soul
  • Why she chose mentorship over a "safe" corporate path

3️⃣ The Relentless Iteration Mindset

  • Post-competition debriefs → business growth frameworks
  • "Your ego wants to celebrate—excellence demands you dissect every flaw"

4️⃣ The 3-Door Career Crossroads

  • Comfortable job vs. agency role vs. entrepreneurship
  • How she knew it was time to bet on herself (again)

5️⃣ The Uncomfortable Truth About Success

  • Why entrepreneurship is 95% grind, 5% glory (just like elite sport)
  • How to fall in love with the daily process, not just the wins

6️⃣ Your New Performance Playbook

  • Pre-transition planning: "Start before you’re desperate"
  • Why every professional needs a "coach" (yes, even you)

Ready to explore your own second act after sport? Connect with Ryan Gonsalves and the 2NDWind Academy to discover how your athletic experience can become your professional advantage here: www.2ndwind.io 

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Career Clarity with Athletes: A 2ndwind Podcast with Ryan GonsalvesBy Ryan Gonsalves