Episode #24 Risk-taking can be intimidating, but it's an essential ingredient for personal growth and achieving our dreams. In today's BTB Short, we will be discussing 10 strategies to help you take risks in life.

In this episode of "Embracing Risks: Unleashing Personal Growth and Fulfilling Dreams," we dive into the world of risk-taking and explore how it can be an intimidating yet essential ingredient for personal growth and the achievement of our dreams.

Taking risks is often seen as a daunting endeavor, as it involves stepping outside of our comfort zones and facing uncertainty. However, we'll discover that embracing risks opens up a world of opportunities and potential rewards that can propel us toward our goals.

Throughout the episode, we'll explore various aspects of risk-taking. We'll discuss why it is essential for personal growth and how it can lead to transformative experiences. We'll also examine the fears and hesitations that hold us back from taking risks and provide practical strategies for overcoming them.

Ultimately, by the end of this episode, you'll have a newfound appreciation for the role of risk-taking in personal growth and achieving your dreams. You'll gain valuable insights and practical tips to overcome fear, take calculated risks, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.

So, if you're ready to step out of your comfort zone, face your fears, and embrace risks as a catalyst for personal growth and the realization of your dreams, this episode is for you. Tune in now and let's embark on this empowering journey together!

Episode #23 In today's BTB Project episode I sit down to interview my son Kaeden Dendorfer. He has an incredible story as a 16-year-old and will inspire you to live in the moments of life each and every day. Experience the incredible journey as he seizes the moment and embarks on an inspiring transformation through the world of running.

In this captivating podcast, we delve into Kaeden's remarkable story, from his humble beginnings to his pivotal role in leading his team to their first-ever Colorado High School XC State Championship.

As a sophomore at Valor Christian, Dendorfer shattered his personal best at the Liberty Bell Cross Country Invitational in 2022, leaving his mark with an impressive time of 15:18 in the 5k. It's hard to believe that just a year prior, he was pushing the boundaries of the 16-minute mark, achieving a Colorado PR of 15:57. This remarkable improvement showcases his relentless dedication and unwavering commitment to his craft.

While Kaeden may be a rising star in the running scene, his journey began even earlier. We uncover his first recorded performance at the 2018 Slavens Invite, where he showcased his potential with a 52nd-place finish and a time of 12:17 for the 1.8-mile course. Little did he know this would be the first step towards a Highschool Running career already filled with triumph and achievements.

In the interview, we also dive into Kaeden's growth, faith, and as a pivotal team member, culminating in his outstanding Top 10 finish at the 5A Colorado State XC Championships. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and seizing the opportunities that come his way.

Be prepared to be inspired as we unravel the layers of Kaeden incredible journey, showcasing how seizing the moment can lead to personal transformation and the fulfillment of long-cherished dreams. Please tune in to this podcast and witness the unwavering spirit of a young athlete who defies limits and embraces the challenges that come his way.

Future Stars Article:

https://co.milesplit.com/articles/320032/future-stars-meet-kaeden-dendorfer

Colorado Mile Split

https://co.milesplit.com/athletes/10942682-kaeden-dendorfer

In episode #22 BTB Shorts we are going to talk about forgiveness. Forgiveness is a deeply significant and beneficial aspect of relationships and personal well-being. Here are some reasons why forgiveness holds importance:

• Emotional Healing: Forgiveness can provide emotional healing for both the forgiver and the person being forgiven. By letting go of anger, resentment, and negative emotions, individuals can experience a sense of relief, peace, and inner freedom.

• Relationship Repair: Forgiveness plays a crucial role in repairing damaged relationships. When conflicts or hurts occur, forgiveness allows individuals to move past the pain, rebuild trust, and foster healthier connections.

• Personal Growth: Forgiveness promotes personal growth and maturity. It involves letting go of the desire for revenge, practicing empathy, and embracing a compassionate perspective. Through forgiveness, individuals can develop empathy, understanding, and resilience.

• Health Benefits: Studies have shown that forgiveness is associated with various health benefits. Holding onto grudges and unresolved anger can contribute to stress, anxiety, and negative physical health outcomes. Forgiveness, on the other hand, has been linked to improved psychological well-being and lower levels of stress and depression.

• Break the Cycle: Forgiveness can help break the cycle of negativity and conflict. By choosing forgiveness instead of perpetuating a cycle of revenge or resentment, individuals can contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious environment in their personal lives and communities.

• Self-Healing: Forgiveness is not just about pardoning others; it can also involve forgiving oneself. Self-forgiveness allows individuals to let go of guilt, learn from past mistakes, and move forward with self-compassion and personal growth.

• Spiritual and Moral Values: Forgiveness is often considered a virtue in many religious and moral frameworks. It aligns with principles of compassion, love, mercy, and understanding, fostering a sense of peace and harmony within oneself and with others.

While forgiveness can be challenging and may require time and effort, it offers immense benefits for personal well-being, relationships, and creating a more compassionate world.

Episode #21 In today's BTB Project interview I speak with Colorado tennis star Richard Johnson. He was a four-year standout at Pepperdine University and was a member of their 2006 national championship team. With the Waves, he played No. 5 singles and No. 3 doubles during the Waves' national title run and was a team captain the following season. He ranks sixth on the school's all-time singles wins list (73) and was nationally ranked as high as No. 2 in singles by the USTA.
The Waves won the West Coast Conference championship all four years Johnson played there. He was named the 2007 WCC Male Student of the Year and the WCC Athletic Post-Grad Scholarship winner.

Johnson graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor of science degree in biology. He was a Rhodes Scholar nominee, the 2008 Pepperdine Biology Co-Student of the Year, and was named to the dean's list four times.  Johnson was also awarded the Dean's Scholarship at CU's law school.

A Grand Junction, Colorado native, Johnson also excelled during his prep career at Fruita Monument High School. He won the class 5A No. 1 singles state championship in 2002 and 2003 for the Wildcats.  As a junior in the 18-and-under division, Johnson was ranked in the top-10 nationally and number one in both Colorado and the Intermountain Region.

After his collegiate career, Johnson toured internationally playing ATP and ITF professional tennis tournaments. The highest world ranking he achieved was No. 1,127 with victories over players in the top 300 in singles and doubles.

"King Richard movie appearance"

https://cubuffs.com/news/2022/5/21/buffs-tennis-alums-manzi-johnson-appear-in-hit-movie-king-richard.aspx

Episode #20 BTB Shorts In today's episode, we discuss the importance of telling your untold story. Stories are a part of everyday life and no matter the circumstances your story is a testament of where you've been and where you are going. The BTB project was built on stories and I would love to hear YOU the listener YOUR story and let's watch the lives it will impact. Be sure to leave a comment after listening to the episode!!! Impossible is nothing and thank you for listening.

Episode #19 In today's Episode, I share the story of Stan Vaughan a Colorado tennis player who went on to play D1 College tennis at Liberty University in Virginia. He was playing the best tennis of his life when a neurological condition Guillain-Barre Syndrome paralyzed him from the neck down 3 months into his freshmen year. Stan shares his incredible comeback and the journey of navigating life, tennis, and difficult circumstances. You will be inspired by his story and encouraged by his determination to get back on the court with his college team.

Episode #18 In today's BTB Short we talk about identity and becoming the ONE in your family tree. There are 4 different types of identities we see in life:

 1. The Unknown Person

2. The Vitalizing Person

3. The Impressive Person

4. The Servant leader and becoming the ONE

Some questions I cover and answer in the podcast:

What truly makes us happy in life? Helping others success

 What does it take to become the ONE

We need to establish goals to create a spark and have ambition

We are creatures of habit we need to learn to trick our brain to make it think otherwise 

Take out all the filler- Is what im doing today going to serve my why our purpose

Self-assess the story you're telling yourself- If it doesn’t serve you get rid of the story.

Build a strong Why-

DECIDE what kind of person you will be

Believe in your ability to do something great

Reprogram your thoughts to seek out your why

Will you be THE ONE who changes your family tree for

It all starts with a single thought. Your BIG DREAM.

Episode #17 In today's episode, I interview one of my former student-athletes Mark Finkevych. He came to the US after winning a Future Leaders Exchange Program of over 10,000 applicants from Ukraine.

After putting in the work on the court and a successful High School tennis session his exchange program was cut short by the COVID Pandemic and he was asked to fly back home. A few years later, his country would be invaded by Russia where he would be asked to stay and protect his nation and his family relocated to a safe place.

Mark is a tremendous worker and has so many valuable lessons to teach the listeners based on his experience. We walk through his BTB Journey and his words of wisdom will inspire you all.

Episode #16: In today's BTB Short, we talk about "Fear" Life can be unpredictable, and there is a lot going on in the world. Feelings of fear and worry are perfectly natural. However, worrying constantly or excessively about what ‘may’ happen can get you stuck in a cycle of harmful thoughts and behaviors. We talk about some examples of fear both personally and in moments as a coach that will resonate with each and every one of you.

Breathing is one way to overcome Fear and create alignment to help stay present each and every day. At the end of the episode, I walk you through a quick breathing exercise you can use daily to shatter Fear and stay on track to achieve your goals.

Overcoming Adversity: My Journey with Spinal Tumors and Triumph in TennisIn Episode 17 of the BTB Project, Kollman Gearhart, a former athlete and motivational coach, shares his inspiring journey of overcoming significant adversity. As a college senior playing tennis, Coleman's life took a dramatic turn when a back injury led to the discovery of a schwannoma tumor in his spine. In this heartfelt episode, he details the physical and emotional challenges he faced, including undergoing a life-altering surgery and learning to walk again. Despite enduring significant pain and setbacks, Coleman's determination and innovative use of a two-handled tennis racket allowed him to continue his passion for tennis. He also touches upon his transition to coaching and shares how his struggles have enabled him to inspire and help others. This episode is a testament to resilience, illustrating how personal trials can be transformed into empowering life experiences.00:00 Introduction to Episode 1500:29 The Life-Changing Diagnosis03:36 The Tumor and Its Impact12:18 The Surgery and Recovery22:00 Challenges and Triumphs in Grad School26:50 Coaching and Continued Health Struggles33:43 The Two-Handled Tennis Racket46:02 Reflections and Lessons Learned51:28 Conclusion and Motivation

Schwannoma Research

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/schwannoma/cdc-20352974

Two Handeled Tennis Racket

http://www.naturaltennis.com/