Becoming UnDone®

By Dr. Toby BrooksSociety & Culture Documentary Health & Fitness Education Self-Improvement

Becoming UnDone® episodes

November 01Tim Byrd | Behind the Scenes with Sudden Impact’s 'Lost Sixth' Member | Biv10 Records Part 4 | 170
About the Guest
Tim Byrd is a talented songwriter, producer, and composer known for his involvement in the evolution of the musical group Sudden Impact, later known as Whytegize, Outsiderz, and Outsiderz 4 Life. Byrd was often regarded as the unofficial sixth member of the group. Through his musical journey, Tim has contributed significantly to the sound and production of the group during their association with BIV10 Records and beyond. Today, Tim continues to shape the music industry, focusing on sync licensing and composing music for television shows and movies.
Episode Summary
In this episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Dr. Toby Brooks embarks on a nostalgic and revealing journey with songwriter and producer Tim Byrd, exploring the highs and lows of his career as an integral part of the group known as Sudden Impact. Delving into the intricacies of the early '90s music scene, the conversation is rooted in memories of ambition, creativity, and the ever-persistent quest for success.
In this reflective dialogue, Tim Byrd shares stories from his formative years, providing an insider look into his transition from aspiring musician to an active role in the music industry. They discuss the pivotal moments leading up to their encounters with Michael Bivins, the excitement of joining the East Coast Family under BIV10 Records, and the unforeseen challenges and learnings that emerged along the way. Tim recounts the significance of camaraderie, the impact of changing times on musical tastes and priorities, and the bittersweet nature of near-misses and unfulfilled promises. This episode sheds light on how the artistic journey often brings unexpected outcomes yet serves as a continuous stream of personal growth.
Key Takeaways
The Power of Youthful Ambition: Tim Byrd discusses how dreams in the 1990s music scene were fueled by collaborations and shared ambitions among young artists.

Navigating Industry Challenges: The episode uncovers the realities of maneuvering through changing musical tastes, unanticipated record label challenges, and how they reshaped the journey of many artists.

Enduring Lessons from Experience: Tim Byrd emphasizes the importance of remaining adaptable and positive, sharing that setbacks can often lead to more personal and lasting growth.

Reflections on Formation Over Failure: Byrd shares insights on how the journey of unfulfilled dreams contributed to his ongoing success and gratitude in life.

Timeless Musical Influences: The conversation showcases the lasting impact music from the '90s has had on listeners and creators alike through relatable stories and shared experiences.
Notable Quotes
"You can eat yourself alive with the coulda beens, would have been, should have beens." – Tim Byrd

"It was meant to happen. And from this point on, we gotta move on." – Tim Byrd

"I believe that everybody has a gift. People just haven't tapped into it." – Tim Byrd

"The focus… boys to Men became more self-contained. He was gearing up for more New Edition things." – Tim Byrd

"To him [Michael Bivins], thank you. That's it. You gave me that opportunity." – Tim Byrd
Resources
Tim Byrd's Instagram: Byrdman Pro

Tim Byrd's Facebook: Tim Byrd Music
Join us for this captivating episode teeming with stories of ambition, learning, and transformation. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking content and insightful conversations on "Becoming UnDone."

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1 hr 7 min
October 22Cale' Brock | Faith, Friendship, and the Music Industry | Biv10 Records Part 3 | 169
About the Guest
Cale' Brock, known during his time with the East Coast Family as Cale', is a talented vocalist who was part of Michael Bivins' famed artist lineup in the early 1990s. Despite early promise and association with acts like Boyz II Men, his anticipated solo success with BIV10 records did not materialize as expected. Today, Cale' continues to pursue music, grounded by his faith and enriched by his experiences, while also serving as a minister and working in the restaurant industry. He emphasizes the importance of persistence, community, and spiritual guidance in navigating life's unexpected turns.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Becoming UnDone, host Dr. Toby Brooks delves into the fascinating journey of Cale' Brock, a member of the early BIV10 family who witnessed firsthand the highs and lows of the music industry alongside major acts like Boyz II Men. Amid a backdrop of reflections from the COVID-19 pandemic and fandom for Marvel movies, Dr. Brooks unearths Cale’s story of artistic potential, interrupted dreams, and eventual redemption. In a candid conversation, Cale' shares how a childhood saturated in gospel music laid the foundation for his allure to R&B, further fueled by a pivotal connection with friend and entrepreneur Mark Ecko.
As Cale' recounts, the path from hopeful teenager to an insider in Michael Bivins' music universe was met with both exhilaration and disappointment. Despite an invitation into the East Coast Family and recording opportunities, broader dynamics and industry challenges prevented the level of stardom he aspired to. Themes of resilience and faith permeate the discussion as Cale' reflects on his journey through depression and eventual career shifts, maintaining the perspective that "here I am, still standing." Today's narrative weaves together lessons on potential, faith, and redemption that are pertinent both to artists and broader audiences alike.
Key Takeaways
Resilience and Faith: Cale' Brock emphasizes the role of faith and community in navigating the ups and downs of life. Despite setbacks in the music industry, his commitment to personal belief and the support from friends like Mark Ecko provided a foundation for resilience.

Importance of Mentorship: Multiple figures, including Michael Bivins and MC Serch, played pivotal roles in Cale's journey, illustrating the necessity of mentorship and guidance in nurturing artistic and personal growth.

Reflections on Industry Challenges: Cale’ shares insights on the competitive and sometimes unpredictable nature of the music industry, where even promising beginnings can result in unforeseen challenges.

Personal Growth Through Setbacks: His story underscores the idea that personal and professional failures often lead to unexpected growth and new opportunities, such as his ongoing work in ministry and continuous creation of new music.

Enduring Power of Music: The episode is a testament to the enduring and transformative power of music and creativity, regardless of immediate recognition or success.
Notable Quotes
“Mind you, I already had fear of not meeting him before… Like I'm the biggest New Edition fan ever.”

"You have to be faithful to the gift. He gave you the vision. You just gotta be faithful enough to see it through."

"Here I am, I'm still standing. After all I've been through, I survived."

“If this meant for you, it will happen.”

“I just didn't want to go back to Jersey. I didn't want to see my parents’ face with disappointment.”
Resources
BIV10 Records

East Coast Family

Michael Bivins

Cale' Brock: Social media and official sites (pending updates related to new music)
Listeners are left with a wealth of wisdom from Cale' Brock's journey and are encouraged to explore this episode for more insights. Stay tuned for future episodes of "Becoming Undone" to uncover more stories of resilience, transformation, and personal evolution.

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1 hr 31 min
October 05Biv10 Records Part 2 | Markpain | Michael Bivins & 90s R&B and Creative Ambition | 168
About the Guest
Markpain is a multifaceted artist, songwriter, and producer with deep roots in the music industry dating back to the 1990s. He was one-half of the group Mark Finesse, associated with Michael Bivins' BIV10 Records and the East Coast Family. An award-winning platinum producer, Markpain's career spans across writing, producing, and now mentoring upcoming artists. Known for his impactful role in 1990s R&B, he continues to innovate and contribute to the music industry, bridging the worlds of creative artistry and business acumen.
Episode Summary
In this captivating episode, Dr. Toby Brooks delves deep into the world of 1990s music, unraveling the story of Markpain and his unexpected journey through the BIV10 Records universe. This episode takes listeners back in time, exploring how Mark, alongside his musical counterpart Finesse, connected with Michael Bivins during a pivotal moment in the music industry. Dr. Brooks intricately ties these past narratives with his personal experiences, unraveling how they indirectly shaped his own path into podcasting.
Markpain, one-half of the group Mark Finesse, sheds light on his evolution as an artist, balancing the roles of performer and producer amidst the shifting tides of early 90s R&B under BIV10 Records. This narrative paints a vivid picture of resilience and adaptation, revealing how he maneuvered through potential breaks to forge his unique route in the music industry. This episode is not just an exploration of the past but serves as an inspiring testament to the belief in one's craft and the pursuit of creative growth, even when initial dreams transform into unexpected realities.
Key Takeaways
Creative Navigation: Markpain's journey through the music industry illustrates the power of adaptability and resilience in carving out a lasting career, even when original dreams shift.

Learning from Opportunities: The narrative underscores the importance of seizing learning opportunities, with Mark leveraging experiences with Michael Bivins to further his production skills.

Collaboration & Mentorship: Highlighting the role of mentorship, Mark offers contemporary artists valuable insights drawn from his extensive background in music and production.

Music Industry Evolution: Discussions provide a lens into the dramatic shifts in the music industry from the 1990s to the present, highlighting how artists have navigated these changes.

Personal Growth: The story of Mark Finesse's near-success emphasizes viewing setbacks as experience-building rather than failures, underpinning Payne's philosophy of continual creative development.
Notable Quotes
"Everything just happened…it was just more or less, live, go, live, go, live, go." - Markpain

"I wasn't looking at the significance of how successful I could be being in the circumference of this individual." - Markpain

"I never thought that it would never happen. It never entered my mind." - Markpain

"In order for you to get a good job anywhere, you have to have a good resume." - Markpain

"You don't drop your experience…you still hold on to the things that are memorable." - Markpain
Resources
Markpain on Instagram

Markpain on SoundCloud

Waiting for Impact by Dave Holmes

Instruments of Pain 3 on Spotify
Tune in to the full episode of Becoming UnDone for an immersive dive into the art and industry of music, woven together with personal anecdotes and expertise by Dr. Toby Brooks and Markpain. Stay tuned for more episodes to continue exploring the rich tapestry of stories involving creative growth, resilience, and success.

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1 hr 26 min
September 27Anna Hertel | Journey From Triathlete to Healing Through Counseling | 167
About the Guest
Anna Hertel is a former competitive triathlete and Ironman competitor who has transitioned into a new chapter of life as an author and counselor-in-training. Her experiences in endurance sports took her across the globe, where she competed in numerous triathlons, including 45 races and two Ironman competitions. Originally from Germany, Anna moved to the United States at the age of 12. Besides her athletic pursuits, she holds a degree in creative nonfiction writing and is currently working to complete her studies in psychology with a focus on helping women navigate trauma and identity. Her memoir, "Brick by Brick: A Memoir of Endurance, Healing, and Becoming," explores the intersections of athleticism, personal growth, and psychological healing.
Episode Summary
In this captivating episode of Becoming UnDone, Anna Hertel shares her extraordinary journey from competing in high-stakes triathlons to embracing a new calling as an author and therapist. Anna reflects on her life’s pivotal moments, including her move from Germany to the U.S., her struggles with identity, and the discipline of competitive sports which eventually aided her healing process. She opens up about how the rigor of triathlon training provided structure during turbulent times and how she navigated the transition to life after sport, ultimately redefining her purpose.
Anna delves into her realization that athletic achievements were initially a form of escaping trauma, detailing the physical and mental toll that competitive sports took on her body and mind. Having been diagnosed with ADHD and having faced complex trauma, Anna describes how acknowledging these challenges has informed her new path. The episode is rich with insights about personal resilience and the critical work of self-discovery. Anna's story not only highlights the highs of a driven youth but also the immense courage required to embrace change and pursue fulfillment beyond competitive endeavors.
Key Takeaways
Anna Hertel’s transformation from a competitive triathlete to an author was driven by a need to reconstruct her identity after recognizing the physical and emotional toll of endurance sports.

Endurance sports provided Anna with structure and control during a chaotic life phase but also served as an escape from confronting trauma.

After being diagnosed with ADHD, Anna gained a deeper understanding of her past behaviors and motivations, which was pivotal in shaping her new career path in psychology.

Anna's memoir aims to educate and inspire others by intertwining her personal story with psychoeducation, emphasizing the healing journey from trauma.

The book "Brick by Brick" is a testament to the importance of redefining one’s identity and purpose, showcasing Anna’s journey to help others heal while continuing her own personal growth.
Notable Quotes
"Triathlon gave me structure in an otherwise extremely turbulent mindset." – Anna Hertel

"What happens when the thing that once saved you is no longer the thing you need?" – Dr. Toby Brooks

"Real healing required me to discover that I was more than those miles, those medals, and those finish lines." – Anna Hertel

"I have to sit in the darkness and this discomfort, and how there's really some damage. I gotta put language to what actually occurred." – Anna Hertel

"If I want something bad enough, I will get it. And trusting my body to follow through, that was pretty awesome." – Anna Hertel
Resources
Anna Hertel's website

Anna Hertel on Instagram

"Brick by Brick: A Memoir of Endurance, Healing, and Becoming" available on Amazon

The Science of the Comeback - scienceofthecomeback.com

"Friday" by Rebecca Black on Spotify
Anna Hertel’s journey from triathlete to therapist embodies the profound exploration of identity and healing. For a raw and insightful conversation about personal evolution and resilience, listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more enlightening stories on Becoming UnDone.

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54 min
September 21Alexandria Crow | When Achievement Breaks You: Reinvention and Recovery | 166
About the Guest
Alexandria Crow is a renowned yoga instructor and former collegiate gymnast from the University of Arizona. She gained visibility in the yoga world through teaching globally, appearing on magazine covers, and being known for her extraordinary physical ability. However, her career took a significant turn when injuries led her to question conventional yoga practices. Today, Alex is a thought leader in the yoga community, advocating for healthier, sustainable practices and teaching the philosophical underpinnings of yoga. She offers teacher training and guidance on professional and personal growth, helping others navigate the ever-evolving landscape of yoga instruction.
Episode Summary
In this compelling episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Dr. Toby Brooks talks to Alexandria Crow, a former collegiate gymnast turned yoga instructor, about her transformative journey through success, injury, and self-discovery. The episode delves into how Alex has shifted from experiencing profound physical achievements to embracing a deeper understanding and teaching of yoga, one that emphasizes sustainable practices and philosophical insights. Her story highlights the emotional and bodily toll of high achievement and the psychological pivot necessary for holistic health and fulfillment.
Alexandria Crow touches on the theme of resilience as she shares personal anecdotes about overcoming serious physical injuries and a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Her journey underscores the value of re-evaluating success and perfectionism, both within herself and the yoga industry, emphasizing a shift toward functionality over performance. Dr. Toby Brooks explores how these life-altering experiences have redefined Alex's professional path, leading her to empower others with her wisdom and strategies for thriving health and mindful careers. This interview features powerful insights into personal growth through adversity, encouraging listeners to embrace their life experiences as integral pieces of a larger journey.
Key Takeaways
Rethinking Success in Yoga: Alex challenges traditional yoga practices, emphasizing the importance of sustainable techniques that prioritize health over aesthetic achievement.

Personal Growth from Adversity: Her physical injuries and health scares catalyzed a significant transformation in her approach to life and profession, focusing on teaching and supporting others.

Teaching Methodologies: Her story underscores the significance of philosophy, adaptability, and meeting students' needs within yoga instruction to promote genuine inclusivity.

Disassembling Perfectionism: Alex shares insights about dismantling personal and societal expectations around perfection, drawing from her experiences in gymnastics and yoga.

Empowering Others: She is committed to helping yoga teachers achieve professional success without compromising their health, using her marketing and management experience to guide them.
Notable Quotes
"Failing doesn't feel like a thing to me because it's just more data that I have to try again or to do something different."

"This isn't what I want to be doing. I want to be valued for my brain and my intellect and what I'm offering."

"Sometimes it's simply more information about whatever's coming next."

"Life is just data; you're never too old to start again, and you're never too good to take out the trash."

"It's not about how I can look. It's not about what I can do. Nobody's perceiving any of those as my worth."
Resources
Alexandria Crow's Instagram

Yoga Physics Website

Mentioned music: "Holocene" by Bon Iver and "No Diggity" by Blackstreet.
Discover how Alexandria Crow’s journey through hardships and triumphs reshaped her approach to yoga and life. Listen to the full episode for an inspiring conversation, and be sure to stay tuned for more illuminating content from the "Becoming UnDone" series.

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1 hr 6 min
August 31Finding Strength in Setbacks: Lessons from Top Gun
About the Host
Dr. Toby Brooks is a professor, author, speaker, and performance scientist with over two decades of experience working as an athletic trainer and strength coach. His clientele has ranged from professional athletes to high school competitors. Currently, he focuses on understanding high achievers across various domains, observing their paths to success despite failures and setbacks. Dr. Brooks is passionate about sharing insights on overcoming challenges and maximizing potential, integrated into his podcast, Becoming UnDone.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Becoming UnDone, Dr. Toby Brooks reminisces about the iconic movie Top Gun and its personal significance, tying it to deeper revelations about setbacks and recovery. With vibrant storytelling, Brooks explores how memories of watching Top Gun with his father at a transformative time in his life have shaped his understanding of resilience. He delves into the movie's themes, particularly focusing on Maverick's journey post-tragedy, drawing insightful parallels to real-life challenges.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Brooks reflects on the themes of recovery, healing, and finding strength after failures. He compares Maverick's need to "get back in the saddle" to real-life experiences, encouraging listeners to acknowledge their struggles and continue striving forward. Using a compelling narrative, Brooks conveys that while setbacks might alter life's trajectory, they also offer profound growth opportunities. The episode resonates with anyone who has faced a disruption in their professional or personal life and seeks motivation to soar once again.
Key Takeaways
The journey to recovery involves acknowledging pain, rebuilding confidence, and embracing new beginnings.

Experiences, such as setbacks, significantly impact self-perception and responses to high-pressure situations.

Confidence is often rebuilt one step at a time, sometimes requiring the support of mentors and allies.

Major setbacks may prompt re-evaluation of identity and purpose but can lead to growth and new opportunities.

The importance of having mentors who encourage persistence, healing, and continued effort in the face of adversity.
Notable Quotes
"When we've been through failure or navigated loss, psychologists would tell us that there is a natural tendency to avoid further trauma."

"A major setback can do more than interrupt our plans. It can make us question our judgment."

"The comeback isn't simply getting cleared. The comeback is learning how to fly again."

"You can be cleared before you're confident. You can be capable before you feel capable."

"Surround yourself with people who will keep believing in your return."
Resources
Becoming UnDone Podcast

Dr. Toby Brooks' social media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn

Book: "Sensory Overload" by Dr. Toby Brooks
Join Dr. Toby Brooks in this inspiring episode as he navigates the complexities of setbacks and comebacks. Listen in to explore how embracing challenges can lead to profound personal growth and resilience. Stay tuned for more engaging content on Becoming UnDone, where unraveling can be the starting point for rebuilding a stronger self.

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31 min
August 23Dr. Matt Geddie | Building Wealth Through Intentional Choices and Financial Planning | 164
About the Guest
Dr. Matt Geddie is a retired occupational therapist and former professor at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to empowering individuals both in healthcare settings and the classroom. Beyond his professional achievements, Matt is recognized for his astute financial acumen, having retired early with significant financial independence. He now focuses on guiding others through financial planning and life transitions in retirement through his online platform, ChangeEight.
Episode Summary
In this enlightening episode of Becoming UnDone, Dr. Toby Brooks engages with Dr. Matt Geddie, a financially savvy retired professor, about the principles of achieving financial independence. Dr. Geddie narrates his journey from being an occupational therapist to retiring early with a net worth of $1.7 million—a feat accomplished through strategic savings, living modestly, and intentional investment choices. His story is less about secret financial tricks and more about consistent and disciplined financial habits.
Dr. Geddie emphasizes that creating a strong financial future doesn't require enormous salaries. Instead, it's built on understanding opportunity costs and making informed decisions. He discusses the role of budgeting, starting early in retirement planning, and fostering open financial dialogues within relationships. The episode highlights life’s unpredictable expenses and how they shouldn't steer individuals away from achieving their financial goals. This engaging dialogue not only offers valuable financial insights but also explores how financial freedom can be about making deliberate life choices.
Key Takeaways
Financial independence is achievable through disciplined savings and investment, not by earning high incomes.

Consistent budgeting and understanding opportunity costs are crucial to long-term financial success.

Building wealth involves planning and communication, particularly in relationships, about financial goals.

Financial freedom allows for greater life choices and flexibility, rather than simply accumulating wealth.

Retirement planning should begin as early as possible to leverage compound interest.
Notable Quotes
"You don't have to make $150,000 or $200,000 a year to get to be a millionaire." – Dr. Matt Geddie

"Find someone who can help you with it. Have somebody hold you accountable." – Dr. Matt Geddie

"The best time to start was yesterday. Can’t do that. So the best time to start is today." – Dr. Matt Geddie

"How do you prepare responsibly for tomorrow without missing the life that's happening today?" – Dr. Toby Brooks

"Life gets in the way, but it doesn't ruin a financial plan if you know what to do with it." – Dr. Matt Geddie
Resources
Connect with Dr. Matt Geddie on LinkedIn

Visit Change8 for more about navigating retirement transitions: Change8 on Skoool (School.com)

Explore more episodes at Undone Podcast
This discussion underscores the importance of strategic financial planning and its impact on personal freedom and life satisfaction. Tune into the full episode for more insightful strategies on financial independence and purposeful living, and stay connected for more transformative content on Becoming UnDone.

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53 min
August 17Hayden Hajdu | From Stardom to Solitude: A Journey Through Music and Recovery | 163
About the Guest
Hayden Hajdu is a talented vocalist known for his evocative blue-eyed soul style, often compared to legendary figures like Brian McKnight. In the early 1990s, Hayden was signed to BIV 10 Records, a promising label headed by Michael Bivins of Bell Biv DeVoe. Despite crafting a completed album, industry shifts left his music unreleased, pushing Hayden to navigate the challenging terrain of the music business. He later joined the group Sygnature, signing with Columbia Records and continued his musical path. Beyond music, Hayden has undergone personal transformations, grappling with and overcoming addiction, and finding grounding in his Christian faith.
Episode Summary
Join Dr. Toby Brooks in an engaging episode of Becoming UnDone, featuring Hayden Hajdu, a vocalist with a vibrant past in the music industry. Formerly associated with BIV 10 Records, Hayden shares his candid story of high hopes, unexpected setbacks, and eventual triumph over personal battles, highlighting his journey from potential stardom to finding peace and purpose beyond the music scene.
In this episode, Hayden reflects on his youth, ambitions, and the fateful meeting with Michael Bivins which led to a record deal. Despite a completed album and promising collaborations, industry changes halted his rise, teaching him resilience. SEO keywords like "BIV 10 Records," "Michael Bivins," "Hayden Hajdu," and "blue-eyed soul" recur as Hayden details navigating these trials, having embraced new chapters in life enriched by faith, family, and sobriety.
Key Takeaways
Unexpected Industry Changes: Hayden shares how unforeseen changes in the music industry affected his career trajectory and personal growth.

Managing Identity: He discusses his early reliance on external validation and how shifting away from music helped redefine his identity.

Overcoming Challenges: Hayden candidly talks about his battles with addiction and how finding faith was pivotal in his recovery.

The Impact of Family: Family life and fatherhood reshaped Hayden's aspirations, emphasizing a life beyond career success.

Redemption and Faith: Embracing Christianity and surrendering personal will allowed Hayden to find true peace and purpose beyond fame.
Notable Quotes
"My identity was in other people's opinions and approval of me."

"I was born with, I think, a gene…alcohol was always something that I think affected me differently."

"It's funny…I never asked God to take away my addiction because I was scared that he was going to."

"God had taken my broken pieces, but he has formed me in the identity of who he is."

"Now my life is just…defined by what Christ wants, and right now, I feel like I'm in the place where I should be."
Resources
Sygnature Album: Available on iTunes, featuring engaging tracks from Hayden's group.

YouTube: Search "Hayden Hajdu" for various music clips and personal recordings.

BIV 10 Records: Learn more about the iconic label started by Michael Bivins.

Dave Holmes' Podcast: "Waiting for Impact" details the fascinating stories of artists from the BIV 10 stable.
Explore the journey of transformation and resilience as shared by Hayden Hajdu, where musical dreams converge with life's lessons. Tune in to this episode of Becoming UnDone for more enlightening narratives, and stay poised for future episodes that dive deep into the lives of high achievers who have mastered the art of rebounding.

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1 hr 35 min
July 20Darryl Strawberry: From Baseball Greatness to Personal Redemption Journey | 162
About the Guest
Darryl Strawberry is a renowned former Major League Baseball (MLB) player, best known for his incredible talent and remarkable achievements on the baseball field. He was the first overall pick in the Major League Baseball draft in 1980 and became an eight-time MLB All-Star and a four-time World Series champion. Despite his on-field success, Strawberry faced numerous personal challenges including addiction and legal issues. Today, alongside his wife Tracy, he leads Strawberry Ministries, focusing on faith, recovery, and hope, dedicating his life to encouraging others through their struggles.
Episode Summary
In this emotionally compelling episode of Becoming UnDone, Dr. Toby Brooks converses with MLB legend Darryl Strawberry about his extraordinary life and career. This candid discussion dives deep into Strawberry's tumultuous yet inspiring journey—from his rise as an iconic baseball player to his struggles with addiction, broken relationships, and personal redemption. Through a tapestry of storytelling, Dr. Brooks and Strawberry explore the important themes of identity, purpose, and personal transformation. Strawberry poignantly shares how the challenges he faced off the field led to his ultimate redemption and how he now uses his platform to spread a message of hope and recovery through his ministry work.
The episode illuminates the dichotomy between fame and personal fulfillment, highlighting the pitfalls that can accompany success. It underscores the resilience required to address deep emotional wounds and the importance of self-forgiveness and reconciliation. Featuring impactful lessons and inspiring anecdotes, this conversation delves into the complexities of the human condition, illustrating how it is never too late to pivot towards a renewed life. Through the lens of Darryl Strawberry's life, the episode tackles universal themes of pain as a motivator, the search for identity beyond one's career, and the power of faith in achieving true healing and redemption.
Key Takeaways
The Role of Pain in Success: Darryl discusses how his painful childhood motivated him to achieve greatness in baseball but also served as a reminder that true healing was necessary beyond professional success.

Identity Crisis: Success can change circumstances, but self-identity remains an enduring quest, impacting one’s ability to internalize happiness.

Journey from Destruction to Redemption: Darryl's transformative journey reveals that personal trials, while challenging, are part of the path to redemption and service through faith.

Importance of Forgiveness: Self-forgiveness and reconciliation with those affected by one's actions are crucial steps in overcoming past mistakes and finding peace.

Faith and Purpose: Despite setbacks, embracing faith and purpose beyond one's career can lead to profound personal change and impactful contributions to others' lives.
Notable Quotes
"My pain led me to my greatness. But my greatness would eventually lead me to my destructive behavior."

"Behind all the home runs and the championships…was a young man still carrying the pain of a violent and dysfunctional childhood."

"No one is too far gone where God cannot reach you because he created you."

"You never know what the miracle could be on the other side…I didn't give up."

"I've been redeemed…I'm not who I used to be."
Resources
Darryl Strawberry's Instagram: @darrylstrawberry18

Strawberry Ministries: strawberryministries.org

Podcast Episode: undonepodcast.com/ep162
Listeners are encouraged to dive into the full episode to hear more of Darryl Strawberry’s insights and transformative journey. Stay tuned for more conversations and inspirational stories on Becoming UnDone.

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57 min
July 08161 | Navigating Burnout and Career Identity in Athletic Training with Dr. Shelby Daly
About the Guest
Dr. Shelby Daly is an accomplished leader in the field of sports medicine with a Doctorate in Athletic Training, specializing in leadership, entrepreneurship, and globalization. She hosts the To the Bone Sports Medicine Podcast, where she discusses topics crucial to athletic trainers and sports medicine professionals. Dr. Daly is recognized for her insightful commentary on leadership, burnout, and professional identity within the athletic training field.
Dr. Toby Brooks is a speaker, author, and professor who hosts the Becoming UnDone® podcast. With a rich background as an athletic trainer and strength coach in professional, collegiate, and high school sports settings, Dr. Brooks explores what distinguishes high achievers and how failures metamorphose into opportunities. His insights into athletic training, leadership, and performance science have become a valuable resource for professionals seeking practical growth strategies.
Episode Summary
In this unique crossover episode of Becoming UnDone® and To the Bone Sports Medicine Podcast, hosts Dr. Toby Brooks and Dr. Shelby Daly engage in a candid discussion on the undercurrents of athletic training and sports medicine. They navigate through the complexities of professional burnout, leadership challenges, and the value exchanges within the athletic training profession. Both bring their extensive experience to the table, questioning why the system often demands more than it offers back. These captivating themes resonate well beyond athletics, touching on organizational and personal growth.
In a conversation filled with laughter yet bearing an urgent undertone, Brooks and Daly delve into the current model of athletic training, exploring how its cultural demands impact practitioners. Topics like education investment vs. salary returns, the future of athletic training, and the potential benefits of niche specialization are scrutinized. This episode isn't just a critique; it's a call to action for sustainability and value recognition in sports medicine. Highlighting shared experiences and innovative solutions, Brooks and Daly shed light on the ways athletic trainers can foster healthier work environments where their contributions are appropriately acknowledged and compensated.
Key Takeaways
Professional Burnout and Sustainability: Dr. Shelby Daly and Dr. Toby Brooks discuss the critical issue of burnout in athletic training, emphasizing the necessity for sustainable practices that reciprocate the value trainers provide.
Education vs. Compensation: Insight into the disparity between the educational investments made by athletic trainers and the financial returns they receive, highlighting a need for revised compensation models.
Cultural Challenges: Exploration of the expectation culture in athletic training that values availability over actual performance and how it affects professional identity and burnout.
Positive Narratives and Solutions: Both hosts advocate for apt measures to be recognized and rewarded beyond the traditional norms, focusing on performance metrics and specialized credentials.
Networking and Partnerships: They underscore the importance of building professional networks and partnerships to create broader opportunities and innovate within the sports medicine landscape.
Notable Quotes
"When do I get to be given to?" - Dr. Shelby Daly, highlighting the imbalance in professional demands vs. returns.
"We can't keep confusing availability with value, exhaustion with commitment, or low compensation with loyalty." - Dr. Toby Brooks, on the need for systemic changes in athletic training.
"How liberating would it be to be able to just tell people to do their job?" - Dr. Toby Brooks, exploring authentic leadership styles in athletics.
"This identity that we've built up that we always have to be available is where we are stabbing ourselves in the back." - Dr. Shelby Daly, discussing the cultural expectations in athletic training.
"The truth is somewhere in the tension between those two things." - Dr. Toby Brooks, on balancing critique with constructive change.
Resources
To the Bone Sports Medicine Podcast by Dr. Shelby Daly: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Becoming UnDone® Podcast by Dr. Toby Brooks: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms.
LinkedIn: Dr. Shelby Daly - LinkedIn for professional insights and discussions.
LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook: Dr. Toby Brooks - Connect for updates and professional discourse.
Join Dr. Shelby Daly and Dr. Toby Brooks as they peel back the layers of athletic training's most pressing issues, offering both a critical eye and a hopeful exploration of what it means to thrive in the profession. Listen to the full episode for a deeper dive into sustainable practices and innovative solutions for athletic trainers and sports medicine professionals. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions from both To the Bone and Becoming UnDone®.
Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!
Support the show
Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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1 hr 4 min

About Becoming UnDone®

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Hosted by professor, speaker, and performance & comeback scientist Dr. Toby Brooks (@drtobybrooks), Becoming UnDone® is where high-achievers come to reckon with rock bottom—and rise again. Every…