Champions Mojo for Masters Swimmers

Nancy Steadman Martin is the only woman in the world, over 70, to break 21 minutes in the 1500 freestyle! What does it mean to be truly unstoppable at 70? Steadman Martin embodies this question as she continues to shatter world swimming records while maintaining a thriving career as a senior law partner. Her remarkable journey defies every notion about aging and physical limitations. She's also a mermaid--really! hIc3Qts4TFYqJBKxLkAP

Nancy's swimming resume reads like a fantasy novel: world records in the 800 and 1500 freestyle (70-74 age group), swimming the English Channel in record time for women over 50, completing the coveted Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming, and winning national titles that often beat competitors decades younger. All while working full-time in law.

The secret to her extraordinary success? A 5:05 AM daily plunge into the pool for a 4,500-yard workout before heading to the office by 8:00, coupled with an unwavering commitment to goal-setting. "I couldn't just get in the pool and swim up and down," Nancy explains. "I need something that I'm looking forward to." This forward-looking perspective has carried her through every challenge, including a life-threatening bout with pneumonia that required lung surgery in 2017.

Perhaps most touching is the legacy connection—Nancy now competes to break her late mother's backstroke records as she ages into each new bracket, describing the feeling as if her mother is swimming in the lane beside her. This familial connection extends to her chosen swimming family, the Mighty Mermaids, a legendary team of women in their 60s and 70s who have been breaking relay records together for 20 years.

When asked what word comes to mind when diving into water, Nancy's answer is profoundly simple: "I'm home." For anyone feeling limited by age or circumstance, Nancy's extraordinary journey proves that with the right mindset and community, our greatest achievements may still lie ahead, regardless of age.

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

"Swimming for me was huge therapy," Matt explains. When Matt lost his beloved wife Christina in the January 2020 helicopter crash that also claimed Kobe Bryant's life, his world shattered. Just weeks later, COVID lockdowns isolated him further as he faced the daunting challenge of raising three children alone. In this profoundly moving conversation, Matt reveals how he returned to swimming—a passion from his youth—as a form of therapy during his darkest days.

From the depths of unimaginable tragedy emerges a story of remarkable resilience, as Matt Mauser—musician, author, and masters swimmer and former NCAA All-American swimmer—shares his journey of rebuilding life after devastating loss.

"Swimming for me was huge therapy," Matt explains, describing how he improvised with a harness in his jacuzzi when pools closed during lockdown. This determination to keep swimming symbolizes his broader approach to grief: showing up even when it's difficult. "I go not because I want to go, but because it's the right thing to do."

Matt's story weaves together his journey from competitive swimmer to successful musician fronting the popular Tijuana Dogs band, his marriage to Christina (whom he met at one of his performances), and their eventual connection to Kobe Bryant through basketball coaching. Through it all emerges a powerful philosophy about finding joy after loss: "Life is for the living, and I intend to live."

Now, through his heartfelt memoir "Bittersweet Treasures" and the Christina Mauser Foundation (which has provided over $100,000 in scholarships to female athletes), Matt honors Christina's legacy while embracing a future filled with purpose. For anyone struggling with grief or seeking inspiration to overcome life's challenges, this conversation offers a roadmap to finding those "treasures" that make life worth living again.

Subscribe to Champions Mojo for more stories of resilience, achievement, and the healing power of swimming in our lives.

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

Cal Beattie defies expectations at every turn. At 90 years old, he's not just surviving—he's thriving as a competitive Masters swimmer who only started racing four years ago and trains alone in a small town in Virginia. He swims unattached with no team members and is amazingly disciplined. His journey from recreational swimmer to competitive athlete began after his wife passed away, when swimming became his solace and strength.hIc3Qts4TFYqJBKxLkAP

What makes Cal's story remarkable isn't just his age, but his approach to training and technology. Despite being born before World War II, Cal uses Form smart goggles to track his performance data with precision that would impress swimmers half his age. His methodical training regimen consists of swimming every other day, always timing his 400-yard freestyle and analyzing the results afterward on his smartphone. "I'm a one-act pony," he admits with characteristic humility, but this singular focus has yielded extraordinary results.

Cal Beattie shares his incredible journey as a 90-year-old Masters swimmer who only started competing four years ago after discovering he ranked fourth nationally in his age group while swimming recreationally after his wife's passing.

• High school swim team co-captain in 1953, swimming 19.2 seconds for 20 yards freestyle
• Swims every other day, focusing on a timed 400-yard freestyle using Form smart goggles that track his performance data
• Eliminated his atrial fibrillation through swimming after doctors wouldn't give clear guidance about exercise
• Maintains a heart rate of 134-150 during swimming and a resting heart rate of 58
• Credits exercise, diet, and 8 hours of sleep as his secrets to longevity
• Follows a disciplined nutrition regimen including a breakfast of grapes, flaxseed, lemon juice, olive oil, and baby spinach

Perhaps most inspiring is Cal's health transformation through swimming. Twenty years ago, he was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and put on blood thinners. When doctors wouldn't give him clear guidance about exercising, Cal made his own decision to start swimming regularly. The result? "After a year and a half, I went to the doctor. He said you no longer have AFib." Two decades later, his resting heart rate is an impressive 58 beats per minute—a testament to swimming's cardiovascular benefits at any age.

Cal's disciplined approach extends beyond the pool. His meticulously consistent diet includes a daily breakfast of grapes, flaxseed, lemon juice, olive oil, and baby spinach. He prioritizes eight hours of sleep, recognizing its direct impact on his swimming performance. "When I get a good sleep, then I go to the pool and I usually get a much better outcome," he explains. These habits form the foundation of his longevity strategy, which he succinctly summarizes as "exercise, diet, and lots of sleep."

Ready to be inspired by Cal's remarkable journey? Listen now and discover what's possible when you commit to showing up, regardless of your age. Whether you're a Masters swimmer yourself or simply curious about extending your prime years, Cal's story will change how you think about aging and athletic performance.

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

In this inspiring episode, we have an engaging conversation with 47-year-old Steve Gold, a swimmer located in Jacksonville, Florida who swims for the Bolles School Sharks Masters. Steve has redefined personal excellence through the sport earning All-American Honors while being a busy working Dad of four! After nearly 25 years away from competitive swimming, Steve's remarkable journey back into the water demonstrates the power of resilience and the transformative impact of pursuing one's passions. He shares insights on his time as a swimmer at Yale, where he served as team captain, and his subsequent hiatus from the sport as he navigated career challenges and family life. Listen for:

• Introduction to Steve Gold, his training regimen and comeback story
• Importance of mental health in sports and exercise
• The role of community and training environment in master swimming
• Tips on balancing competitive swimming with family and work life
• Insights into setting realistic goals as a master swimmer
• Encouragement for adults to engage in competitive swimming

With a background in mental health, Steve passionately discusses how swimming has revitalized not only his physical condition but also his mental wellbeing. He highlights the intrinsic connection between physical fitness and mental health, illustrating how swimming can be both an individual pursuit and a communal experience that fosters teamwork and support. Through Steve’s story, listeners will learn about the importance of finding balance in life while pursuing competitive goals.

As he prepares for upcoming master swimming events, Steve provides valuable advice on how to set realistic expectations, integrate swimming into busy schedules, and the advantages of training within a community. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just beginning your journey, this episode will inspire you to make waves in your own life and encourage you to embrace the joy of competition at any age. 

Join us to explore Steve's extraordinary story, filled with determination, passion, and camaraderie—a heartfelt reminder that swimming is not just a sport; it's a lifelong journey towards excellence. Remember to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

Josie West, college club and masters swimmer, joins us to share her journey as a 21-year-old club swimmer at the University of Virginia, embarking on her first master's swimming meet. You'll hear firsthand how Josie navigated her inaugural 400 IM event, her aspirations to qualify for the CCS National Championship, and the unique challenges faced when balancing competitive swimming with study abroad experiences. Get a glimpse into the supportive and self-driven culture of UVA's club swim team, part of an expansive network under the US Masters umbrella, where social and competitive elements blend seamlessly.

Join us as Josie enlightens us on the vibrant dynamics of college club swimming, where self-motivation meets community spirit. From flexible training schedules with grad student coaches to exhilarating travel meets each semester, UVA's club team is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Discover the synergy between club and varsity teams at UVA, where shared practice spaces and collaborative meet support create a thriving environment for excellence. Don't miss this engaging conversation that celebrates the spirit of competition, camaraderie, and the drive to achieve greatness in collegiate swimming.

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

Discover how a passion for swimming can seamlessly intersect with a high-powered career in aerospace engineering through the story of Charlie Cockrell. As the Director of Engineering at NASA Langley Research Center, Charlie takes us on a journey through his dual life as a dedicated athlete and a committed volunteer with US Masters Swimming. Learn about his impactful role as head starter for the upcoming International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics Championships, and how his trips to the Space Coast for work double as opportunities to engage with diverse Masters teams. Charlie's experiences reveal the welcoming and inclusive spirit of the Masters swimming community, particularly at IGLA events, which unite swimmers from all around the globe. To register for the IGLA swimming events click https://www.usms.org/events/events/igla-championships-2025?ID=10842

Experience the rejuvenating power of swimming as we explore its benefits for both body and mind. Charlie enlightens us with his training insights, emphasizing the balance of high-intensity workouts with essential recovery days. We celebrate the camaraderie that defines the Masters swimming community, where connections with fellow swimmers fuel motivation and joy. The episode underscores the importance of volunteering, which not only strengthens the community but also creates a vibrant and supportive environment. Be inspired by how Charlie integrates his professional and athletic pursuits, demonstrating the fulfillment that comes from engaging with a passionate and diverse group of swimmers.

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

Today, we’re diving into a truly memorable interview with Olympic champion Katharine Berkoff. Recorded during NC State’s 50th-anniversary celebration of women’s swimming, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of Katharine’s journey, her reflections on being part of the Wolfpack, and her post-Olympic life. Berkoff won gold in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games as the preliminary backstroke lead off swimmer for Team USA and was also an individual bronze Medalist in the 100 meter backstroke. 

Katharine shares what it’s like to reconnect with alumni who paved the way for her success, her thoughts on NC State’s tradition of producing world-class backstrokers, and the emotional resilience required to secure her Olympic medal. From her thrilling journey to becoming NC State’s first female Olympic champion to her candid reflections on transitioning to professional swimming, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and a touch of humor.

You’ll also get a glimpse into Katharine’s personal life as she shares the story of her beloved rescue kitten, Peach, and how she’s embracing her new chapter with renewed focus on self-care and recovery. Whether you’re an athlete, a fan of swimming, or someone seeking motivation to tackle life’s challenges, this episode is a must-listen. Dive in and join us for an unforgettable conversation with one of the sport’s brightest stars!

Check out this week's blog post about the NC State Women's Swimming 50th Anniversary Celebration https://www.championsmojo.com/blog/50-years-of-wolfpack-womens-swimming-a-celebration-of-legacy-connection-and-pride/

Champion's Mojo is the #1 Masters Swimming Podcast and a top rated swimming podcast on Apple. Subscribe today and don't miss a single episode!

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

Get ready to be inspired as we bring you an exclusive conversation with Cejih (CG) Yung, a prominent sports agent and accomplished swimmer, on a special short format edition of Champion's Mojo from the pool deck. Cejih, who represents Olympic stars like Lilly King, Katie Grimes, and many other champions, shares his unique journey of juggling a high-powered career with his passion for swimming. From his exhilarating experience at the Paris Olympics to his recent races at the Nationals, Cejih opens up about the thrill of competition, the art of balancing life as a busy professional and athlete, and the mental preparation that keeps him grounded and motivated. 

Join us as Cejih shares his philosophy of enjoying the journey rather than fixating on results, and reflects on anecdotes that highlight the joy and camaraderie found in the swimming community, his insights remind us of the lifelong benefits of staying active and embracing the sport at any age. Whether you're an athlete or an enthusiast, this episode is packed with inspiration and valuable takeaways that will energize your own journey in sports and beyond.

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

In this compelling interview, Allison Hayden, a 53 year old multi-national champion swimmer with the St. Pete Masters, shares her journey and triumphs as a versatile athlete excelling in multiple disciplines. Known for her prowess in the 200 butterfly and middle-distance freestyle, Allison dives into her unique training regimen, discussing the mental challenges of training alone in the Maine winter and her approach to maintaining motivation.

Allison’s swimming story is as multifaceted as her strokes. From her college career at UNC Wilmington, where she studied marine biology and trained alongside future Olympic coach Todd DeSorbo, to her post-college transition as a professional triathlete and open-water swimmer, she has consistently pushed boundaries. A defining chapter of her journey includes swimming with a college club team at age 34 while coaching and training alongside younger athletes, proving age is no barrier to high performance. Her passion for open-water swimming shines, with her favorite event being the 10K, a challenge she embraces for its mental and physical demands.

Top 5 Questions Answered in the Interview

1. How do you win a high-point award at a meet?
   
   
2. What’s the secret to training alone and staying motivated?
   
   
3. Is it possible to train effectively in unconventional settings, like a small pool or alone at sea on a ship?
   
   
4. How can a swimmer transition between sports or stages of life and maintain peak performance?
   
   
5. What draws swimmers to open water events, and why is the 10K Allison’s favorite?
   
   

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com

Whether you’re a coach, swimmer, or simply a sports enthusiast, this episode will inspire you with insights into the transformative power of perseverance, innovation, and connection.

Dive into this episode as Jonathan Kaplan, the visionary behind SwimRVA, Rapids Swim Team shares how he turned a small swimming program into a thriving community of over 580 passionate swimmers. Discover the secrets to creating an environment where swimmers, from kids to adults, feel empowered, responsible, and excited to return to the pool. Learn how fostering fun and mentorship builds a lifelong love for swimming and strengthens communities. 

What’s the secret to turning casual swimmers into lifelong enthusiasts? Join us to uncover Jonathan Kaplan’s innovative approach that blends fun, responsibility, and mentorship to create a ripple effect in the swimming world. From inspiring stories to actionable strategies, this episode is your lane to transforming the way you think about swimming, coaching, and building a vibrant swim community. Don’t miss it—dive in now!

Check our Jonathan's Inspiring Sports Nation Channel https://www.isnation.com/coach/642/bio

Email us at [email protected]. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

You can learn more about the Host and Founder of Champions Mojo at www.KellyPalace.com