Clara Brown's journey from a life-altering spinal cord injury to dominating the world of para cycling is a story of sheer grit and unwavering determination. With a collection of medals and records under her belt, Clara's resilience and passion for sports are truly inspiring. In this conversation, Clara shares her experiences and insights, from her early life and accident to her transition into cycling and her success in major events. She also discusses the importance of a strong support system and the modifications she has made to her equipment to excel in para cycling. Clara discusses her experience as a para-athlete and her journey to the Olympics. She talks about her specialized bike and the short films made about her story. Clara shares her experience at the Tokyo Olympics and how she dealt with a neurological flare-up during the competition. She emphasizes the importance of a support system and the role of sports psychology in her performance. Clara also reveals her passion for flying and her plans for a career in aviation after cycling.

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@clara.brownie

In this conversation, host Carlos Jimenez interviews Kendall Wesenberg, a former skeleton athlete from Team USA. They discuss Kendall's career in skeleton, her journey to the Winter Olympics, and her experiences with injuries and setbacks. Kendall shares how she got into the sport of skeleton, her love for soccer, and the influence of role models on her career. They also talk about Kendall's Olympic experience and the challenges she faced with injuries. Throughout the conversation, Kendall emphasizes the importance of a strong support system and staying motivated during difficult times. Kendall Wesenberg discusses her journey of overcoming injuries and surgeries in the sport of skeleton. She shares her mindset of pushing through challenges and the motivation to get back to 100%. Kendall talks about her hip surgeries and the timeline for recovery, as well as the impact on her performance. She also opens up about her back injury and the fear and frustration that came with it. Kendall emphasizes the importance of mental health and the support system she has in place. She shares her plans for the future and how she wants to be remembered in the sport.

@kendallorraine

www.adversitydiaries.com

Tarah Kayne, a retired competitive pair skater, shares her journey filled with highs and lows in the world of figure skating. She discusses her passion for the sport, the financial challenges she faced, and the support she received from her family. Tarah talks about her partnership with Danny and their success in competitions. She also opens up about the loss of her father and how she coped with it while focusing on her skating career. Tara reflects on the early stages of her career and the injuries she experienced while working as a waitress to support herself. Tarah shared her experiences with injuries and setbacks in her skating career. She discussed the lack of proper nutrition and rest during her training, which contributed to her injuries. She underwent surgery for a labrum tear in her right hip and a patella tendon reconstruction in her right knee. Tarah emphasized the importance of taking care of one's body and not pushing too hard. She also talked about the support system she had during her injuries, including her partner, coach, and the staff at the Olympic Training Center. Tarah now works as a choreographer and coach, sharing her experiences and lessons with the next generation of skaters.

Hanna Glas, a standout right back from the Swedish national team, shares her journey from her early days in Sweden to her competition at the FIFA Women's World Cup, Tokyo Olympics, and Euros. She talks about her love for soccer, her role model players, and her dreams of becoming a professional soccer player. Hanna discusses the support she received from her family and the challenges she faced, including her first major injury and the limited resources available for her rehabilitation. Hanna Glas discusses her career in soccer, including her transition from midfielder to outside back, her experiences playing for PSG and Bayern Munich, and her journey through multiple injuries resulting in surgeries. She also talks about the importance of a support system, setting small goals during rehab, and the cultural differences in rehab processes. Hanna reflects on her achievements in major tournaments and the difficult decision to not play in the World Cup due to her long-term health. She shares advice for athletes going through similar injuries and emphasizes the importance of listening to your body and learning from experiences.

Eddie Penev, a remarkable gymnast, overcame numerous challenges on his journey to success. Born in Bulgaria and raised in the US, Eddie's dedication and skill have earned him multiple national titles and international acclaim. A graduate of Stanford University, Eddie was a key member of the gymnastics team, excelling in individual events and contributing to team victories. He even has a floor exercise element named after him, the Penev. Eddie values team success over individual accolades and cherishes the experience of competing with his teammates. He has represented both Bulgaria and the US in international competitions. Eddie Penev discusses his journey in gymnastics, including switching from competing for Bulgaria to Team USA, experiencing major setbacks due to injuries, and finding solace in hiking. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and having a strong support system during difficult times. Eddie shares his recent shoulder surgery and his plans to attend the Olympics to support his brother. He concludes by expressing his gratitude for the opportunities and the people who have helped him along the way.

Shadrack Kipchirchir, a world-class runner from Kenya, shares his journey from growing up in a rural village to representing Team USA in various competitions. He discusses his challenging upbringing, where resources were scarce and education was a struggle. Shadrack brother, Titus, played a significant role in introducing him to running and inspiring him to pursue a better life in the United States. Shadrack excelled in college, first at Western Kentucky University and then at Oklahoma State University, where he experienced the power of team-oriented running. After college, he joined the U.S. Army and became part of the World Class Athlete Program, representing the army in international competitions. Shadrack Kipchirchir shares his experience as part of the Army World Class Athlete Program and his journey to the Olympics. He explains that the program is for soldier athletes who undergo basic and advanced training to develop both their military and athletic skills. Shadrack highlights the opportunities and support he received as an Olympian, including endorsements and financial stability. He also discusses his setback and injury, emphasizing the importance of accepting and seeking help during difficult times. Shadrack's story is one of perseverance, consistency, and the ability to overcome obstacles.