Most people wait to feel ready.

Winners dive in—even if it's a belly flop.

In this episode, I sit down with Deborah Gardner, a competitive performance expert who doesn't just teach winning—she's lived it at the highest level.

At 66 years old, Deborah became the oldest woman to swim the 21-mile Catalina Channel, earning a Guinness World Record and proving something most people miss:

👉 Mindset beats circumstance. Every time.

We talk about what it really takes to compete—whether you're on a stage, leading a team, or fighting through uncertainty.

This is about:

• Turning "belly flops" into breakthroughs
• Owning your lane instead of comparing your path
• Why engagement—not likability—is the real standard of leadership
• How to build an unsinkable mindset in pressure moments

About the Guest

Deborah Gardner is a competitive performance expert, global keynote speaker, and six-time bestselling author who challenges leaders to take action—not just take notes.

At 66, she became the oldest woman to conquer the Catalina Channel, earning a Guinness World Record and redefining what's possible at any stage of life.

Her philosophy is simple and powerful:

YOBO — You Only Breathe Once.

She's known for her no-fluff, high-energy delivery and has been called a "pit bull in a skirt" for her relentless focus on driving results.

Deborah is also the author of the upcoming book "Own Your Lane" (2027), where she challenges individuals to stop comparing—and start competing where they are strongest.

Resources & Connect with Deborah

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/deborahgardner1
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/DeborahGardner01
• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/deborahgardner
• X (Twitter): https://x.com/deborahgardner

If you're serious about winning—personally or professionally—don't just listen. Execute.

👉 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadershipity

👉 More episodes: https://podcast.winnersfindaway.us/podcast

👉 Work directly with Coach Trent: https://www.bloomgrowthcoach.com/coaches/trent-clark/