Jamie Nieto, actor, producer, and two-time U.S. Olympian in the high jump, had his life transformed in 2016 after a tragic accident while coaching athletes left him with a spinal cord injury. Once among the top-ranked athletes in the world and narrowly missing medals at both Olympics, Jamie suddenly faced the fight of his life: learning how to move, walk, and live again.
In this powerful conversation, Jamie shares how his love for his mom and his Olympic journey — from being a late bloomer to competing in Athens and London — gave him the mindset to overcome his greatest challenge. He reflects on the resilience built through sport, the depression that comes after the Olympics, and the role of faith, family, and sports psychology in shaping his outlook.
Alongside Mikey Tableman and co-host Danny Gomez, who met Jamie during rehab, we hear firsthand how Jamie’s mantra — “better every day” — not only fueled his recovery but also inspired those around him. Now an actor, producer, and mentor, Jamie continues to prove that perseverance and positivity can carry you through the darkest moments.
This is a story about strength, hope, and never giving up — no matter the obstacle.
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Jamie’s Mindset: Believing without limits
07:03 – Olympic Journey: Athens & London highs and heartbreaks
22:46 – The Accident: Life-changing injury while coaching
29:50 – Rehab & “Better Every Day”: Meeting Danny Gomez and fighting back
37:58 – Breakthrough: First steps walking again
48:47 – Life After: Acting, producing, and inspiring others
Follow Jamie Nieto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamienieto/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jamienieto_oly
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRA9Cv9qDH8
Follow the Hosts
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeytableman/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dannyjgomezofficial/
Follow Chaos Controlled Podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialchaoscontrolled/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialChaosControlled
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@officialchaoscontrolled
Website: https://www.chaoscontrolledpodcast.com
Disclaimer: The hosts and producers are not licensed therapists. This podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional. It is a raw, unfiltered conversation about mental health and lived experiences.
Hosted by Mikey Tableman and Danny J. Gomez, Chaos Controlled features inspiring guests who share powerful stories, tools, and insights to break stigmas and help you navigate life’s challenges.
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Produced by: A Mind’s Pursuit 501c3 and Daymaker Productions
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