This week’s episode features NBA player and Utah State legend Sam Merrill. His journey—from quiet gym hours to big-stage moments—reminds us that greatness grows from daily choices. Sam’s counsel hits three Especially for Athletes principles head-on: Be Resilient, Win the Hour, and Seek to Bless, Not to Impress. Here are a few highlights to discuss with your team or family—and a link to the full conversation at the end.  

1) Be Resilient: Build Macro Confidence  

Sam distinguishes between the ups and downs of a single shot and the deeper trust built over months and years.  

“I’m a very macro confident person… my confidence game to game or shot to shot can go up and down, but I’ve always felt so confident in the work I’m putting in—that it’s going to pay off… During those years where I wasn’t sure it was going to work out in the NBA, I felt very confident it would work out somewhere because I put in the work.” E4A Takeaway: Resilience isn’t pretending every moment feels great. It’s choosing to keep working when the results are delayed. Believe in the process you control.  

2) Win the Hour: Choose “Want-To” over “Have-To”  

Sam’s separator isn’t a secret drill—it’s the intention behind every rep.  “Are you going to the gym because you have to… or because you want to get better and get something done? I’ve played with guys who are there because they have to be, and guys who are there because they want to be. I always felt like I wanted to be there—and still do.” E4A Takeaway: Before each workout, decide your purpose. Go to get something done. Stack intentional hours—one by one—until the pattern becomes your edge.  

3) Seek to Bless, Not to Impress: Be a Selfless Teammate  

Even at the highest level, teams thrive when players choose people over ego.  

“Being a good teammate is being as selfless as you can be… Ask yourself: ‘Am I being selfless for my teammates? Is this helping all of us, not just me?’ I’ve had great teammates—Jrue Holiday was an insanely good human… And with Donovan Mitchell, he cares about everybody, communicates, understands what role players go through.” E4A Takeaway: Your influence is bigger than your box score. Use your voice and your energy to lift others. That’s leadership that lasts.  

Why This Matters Sam’s message fits the heart of Especially for Athletes: develop confidence through consistent work, be intentional with every hour, and value people over praise. That’s how sports become a tool for character—not just a chase for achievements.  

🎧 Listen to Podcast #147 with Sam Merrill — hear the full conversation and share it with an athlete, teammate, or coach. Available wherever you listen to podcasts.

####

Especially for Athletes:

• Website: https://e4a.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
• X: https://x.com/E4Afamily
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

####

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith

Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

This week, we sat down with former University of Utah basketball player and current high school basketball coach Doug Meacham for a deep and inspiring conversation sparked by comments from professional golfer Scottie Scheffler. After winning a major tournament, Scheffler said that while victory brings excitement, his true fulfillment comes from faith and family—not trophies. He shared that he’d rather be remembered as a great father than a great golfer.

Coach Meacham, along with Especially for Athletes founder Dustin Smith, explored how keeping sports in proper perspective can ground us, steady us, and make us better both on and off the field. Coach Smith shared the powerful story of a devastating state championship loss and how the five minutes he spent with his team afterward may have been the most important coaching moment of the season.

This is a conversation every athlete and coach should hear—a reminder that while the desire to win is important, the lessons learned in the process are what truly last. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

Eyes Up – Do the Work.

####

Especially for Athletes:

• Website: https://e4a.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
• X: https://x.com/E4Afamily
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

####

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith

Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

Every athlete has felt it—the quiet voice that says “I don’t belong here.” In this episode of the Especially for Athletes podcast, we tackle imposter syndrome head-on and explore the power of self-talk in building unshakable confidence.

Shad shares personal stories, insights from athletes like Tanner Allen and Michael Jordan, and compelling neuroscience that proves what you say to yourself matters. Whether you’re stepping into a bigger role, moving to a new level, or simply trying to believe you’re good enough—this episode is for you.

💬 Highlight Moments:

• A college coach’s tough-love advice that shattered imposter syndrome.
• Neuroscience behind why self-talk rewires your brain and boosts performance.
• Quotes from Venus Williams, Nick Saban, and others on belief, confidence, and mindset.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re good enough to compete—this episode will remind you: You were invited for a reason. Now it’s your turn to believe it.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #E4APodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin
Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

Hall of Fame point guard Steve Nash said it best: “The process is what wins.” In this episode of the Especially for Athletes podcast, we unpack why process over outcome is more than just a motivational phrase—it’s a way of life for elite athletes and strong individuals.

Dustin and Chad reflect on lessons from Steve Nash, bestselling author James Clear (Atomic Habits), and past podcast guests like Brennan Schooler, Ally Gomm, and Justin Su’a to explore what it really means to stack hours, build discipline, and compete even when no one is watching.

Highlight Moments:

•  Why trusting the process builds long-term success—even after tough losses.
   
•  James Clear’s take on identity-based habits: “Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.”
   
•  How developing a consistent process leads to surprising victories—in sports and in life.
   

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode will help you rethink what it means to win. Stick to the process. Trust the journey. Eyes Up. Do the Work.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://e4a.org/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to become one of the nation’s top collegiate gymnasts? For Taylor Christopulos, the answer is found not just in routines and repetitions—but in mindset, resilience, and service.

In this episode, Taylor, the 2025 Nissen-Emery Award winner (often called the “Heisman of Gymnastics”), shares his journey from Layton, Utah, to Nebraska’s NCAA team, his Olympic aspirations, and the unseen grind that defines success. He reflects on the importance of training the mind, pushing through the “bottom third” days, and using his platform to lift others.

Highlight Moments:

• Why everyday decisions—like sleep, food, and mindset—are where championships are really won.

• The power of visualizing goals and staying grounded in purpose.

• Lessons from Nebraska’s team motto: “It Takes What It Takes.”

This episode is a must-listen for any athlete striving to win more than just games. It’s about winning your hours, your mindset, and your impact.

Principles discussed: Win the Hour, Be Resilient, Seek to Bless Not to Impress

Listen now and be inspired to keep your Eyes Up and Do the Work.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Especially for Athletes podcast, Dustin and Shad break down a powerful interview with NBA legend Charles Barkley that covers anger, blame, and the moment Barkley decided to stop playing with bitterness and start playing for the right reasons. Barkley shares a raw and honest story about how unresolved anger and the desire to “prove people wrong” nearly defined his career—and how one moment of reflection helped him shift his mindset. Dustin and Shad reflect on what it means to “play with an edge” versus “playing on the edge,” and how athletes, parents, and coaches alike can learn from Barkley’s hard-earned wisdom.

Key Takeaways:

• Be 100% Responsible – “She didn’t flunk you. You flunked you.” Barkley’s turning point came when he finally took ownership of his choices.
• Playing With an Edge vs. On the Edge – Passion and intensity are great. But if they’re fueled by hate, it’s only a matter of time before you fall.
• Pre-decide Your Lines – Athletes and parents alike need to know their personal limits before competition starts to avoid moments they’ll regret.
• Competing Without Contempt – Proving others wrong might be motivating—but don’t let bitterness steal your joy or define your character.
• The Power of Maturity – Barkley’s journey reminds us that true greatness isn’t just about skill—it’s about growth, humility, and self-awareness. 

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode is a reminder to stay grounded, play with purpose, and keep your Eyes Up and Do the Work—for the right reasons.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode #141 of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we sit down with Ally Gum, a track athlete currently running at Duke University. Ally shares her incredible journey from being a Provo Bulldog in Utah to competing at the University of Utah, taking a break to serve a mission in Boston, and ultimately transferring to Duke University to finish her collegiate career. Along the way, she’s learned invaluable lessons about resilience, leadership, and what it truly takes to compete at the highest level.

Key Takeaways:

1. Winning the Hour:

   Ally opens up about the importance of setting priorities and goals. She explains how being a high-level athlete means being deliberate with every moment of your day—balancing practice, recovery, meals, and academics. She encourages athletes to “fall in love with the process,” saying that treating the everyday actions as part of the competition itself can help you get ahead of your competitors.

2. The Importance of Sleep:

   A surprising lesson Ally learned was the value of sleep in performance. She shares how her coach at Duke emphasized the importance of rest, even more than practice sometimes. Ally admits that, in high school, she didn’t prioritize sleep, but now she realizes how crucial it is for recovery and maximizing her performance.

3. Competing Without Contempt:

   Competing with respect and camaraderie rather than animosity is essential. Ally discusses the unique nature of track and field, where athletes from different teams compete side by side but can still encourage each other. She describes a moment of joy when a teammate ran a personal record and how it felt to genuinely cheer for her teammate’s success, illustrating the true spirit of competition.

4. Resilience in Action:

   Ally shares her personal story of overcoming setbacks, including a painful injury and being replaced on her team right before qualifying for nationals. Despite feeling crushed, Ally used this setback as fuel to push harder and ultimately transferred to Duke, where she’s now running her best times ever. Her story is a powerful example of how resilience is built through adversity and how athletes can rise above challenges.

5. The Spotlight and Using It to Lift Others:

   With the extra attention that athletes often get, Ally discusses the responsibility of using that “spotlight” to help and lift others. She shares how being involved in sports has given her the chance to mentor and motivate younger athletes, and how using her platform has allowed her to create a positive impact on the lives of others.

6. Leadership and Teamwork:

   Ally reflects on the importance of her teammates, who have been a huge source of support throughout her athletic career. She emphasizes that being a teammate means not only competing together but also being there for each other through tough times. Ally has learned to look out for teammates who might be struggling, just as they’ve supported her.

In this episode, Ally Gum exemplifies the principles of resilience, leadership, and compassion that Especially for Athletesstrives to instill in young athletes. Whether you’re facing a setback in sports or life, Ally’s insights on staying focused, using setbacks as motivation, and building stronger relationships with teammates will inspire you to keep your eyes up and do the work.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram:

In episode #140 of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we tackle a powerful and emotional topic: bullying. We explore the critical role that athletes, coaches, and parents can play in addressing and preventing bullying, especially in schools. Through a video that went viral, we dive deep into the heart of bullying, the leadership shown by a young boy standing up to bullying, and how athletes can help in these situations.

Key Takeaways:

1.  Athletes as Leaders in Bullying Prevention – The episode highlights how athletes can use their position of influence to step in when they see bullying. By simply showing empathy and offering support to the victim, athletes can create a culture of kindness. We discuss how a football coach shared a moving video with his team, urging them to be leaders who stand up for others in difficult situations.
2. Empathy First, Action Second – It’s not just about confronting the bully, but more importantly, about showing care for the victim. The real work comes from addressing the bullying and offering support by including the victim and making them feel valued. Simple gestures like asking “Are you okay?” or inviting them to join in activities can make a world of difference.
3. Bullying Isn’t Just a High School Problem – Bullying happens most frequently in middle school and junior high, with over 70% of students witnessing it. Addressing bullying needs to be a constant conversation, not just a one-time discussion. Athletes, especially those in leadership positions, can use their social influence to make a lasting impact.
4. The Heart of Leadership – We explore the deeper emotional and psychological factors that drive bullying behavior. By understanding that many bullies act out due to their own insecurities and struggles, we highlight the importance of showing compassion for both the victim and the bully.
5. The Power of Empathy and Action – We wrap up with a powerful message about how true leadership involves more than just preventing bullying—it’s about changing the culture around you. As athletes, the power of the sportlight can be used not only to uplift your peers but also to create a ripple effect that impacts your school, community, and beyond.

This episode challenges athletes, coaches, and parents to be proactive in helping those who are bullied and to set an example of empathy, leadership, and positive action. It’s not just about stopping bullying; it’s about creating an environment where kindness and respect are the norm.

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode #139 of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we tackle a tough moment many athletes face, the heartbreak of being cut from a team. Whether you’ve just experienced this setback or are coaching athletes who have, this episode is for you. We explore how to respond with resilience, work ethic, and perseverance, using the stories of remarkable athletes like Doug Meechum, Elsie Murphy, and Jeff Griffin.

Key Takeaways:

1. Respond with Work – Doug Meechum shares his story of being cut from his high school team, but instead of giving up, he went to work, got feedback, and returned the next year to earn a spot. As he puts it, “Go to work and make it so they can’t cut you next year.” Resilience is about turning setbacks into motivation and putting in the effort to prove yourself.
2. Dream a New Dream – When Elsie Murphy faced rejection for four years in a row, she didn’t let it define her. Instead, she shifted her focus to become an equipment manager, earning a scholarship and a career in athletics. Similarly, Jeff Griffin, after a life-changing injury, redirected his focus and became a Paralympian. When one dream ends, you can always create a new one and continue to apply your work ethic to something else meaningful.
3. Failure is Not Final – As Michael Jordan famously said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots… I’ve failed over and over again in my life, and that’s why I succeed.” Failure is part of the journey, but it’s how you respond that defines your future success. Whether you keep working or dream a new dream, resilience and perseverance will always lead you to the next step.

This episode is a powerful reminder that setbacks are not the end. They are opportunities to rise, to redirect your efforts, and to keep pushing toward your goals, no matter what the road ahead looks like.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we sit down with BYU football standout Connor Pay just days before the NFL Draft as he prepares to begin his professional career. Connor shares powerful insights about the path to greatness—how it demands sacrifice, repetition, and a willingness to embrace the boredom of consistency. From mastering the art of snapping a football to leading the offensive line with precision, Connor opens up about the behind-the-scenes discipline it takes to perform at an elite level.

We also dive into his commitment to using his platform as a well-known athlete to positively influence others, especially young people, in their faith and personal development. This conversation is a reminder that true greatness often lies on the other side of mundane—where consistency becomes second nature and purpose fuels perseverance.

Especially for Athletes:

Website: https://e4a.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4Afamily
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

Credits:

Hosted by Shad Martin
Produced by IMAGINATE STUDIO

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.