The Podium Life Podcast

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When does “I got it” stop feeling like independence and start feeling like a limitation?

In Episode 4 of The Podium Life Podcast, Michelle Carter looks at the difference between being capable and believing you have to carry everything alone.

From her Olympic career to friendships, business, fitness, and everyday life, Michelle reflects on how being known as “the strong one” can make it hard to accept support. Sometimes it comes from independence. Sometimes it comes from control. And sometimes repeated disappointment teaches you that relying on yourself feels safer than trusting someone else to show up.

But there can be a cost.

Michelle shares that although shot put was an individual event, her preparation for Olympic success was never individual. Coaches, strength staff, medical professionals, family, teammates, agents, media trainers, and others all played a role.

The performance may be individual, but the preparation isn’t.

In This Episode

• When healthy independence becomes “I have to do everything myself”
• Why capability can make it difficult to receive help
• How disappointment and broken promises can affect your willingness to trust support
• The burden of always being considered “the strong one”
• What Michelle’s Olympic career taught her about having a team
• The hidden cost of doing everything yourself: time, energy, relationships, opportunities, rest, money, focus, and growth
• Why doing everything yourself can limit business growth
• Learning what actually requires you and what can be delegated
• Clearly communicating what support looks like
• What you may need to stop carrying to sustain the life you’re building

The Four Ps of a Podium Life

Prepare. Perform. Present. Preserve.

Michelle introduces these four areas as a framework for looking at the life you’re building and whether the way you’re carrying it is sustainable.

This Week’s Podium Challenge

Practice three things:

Ask. Delegate. Receive.

Ask for something you need.
Delegate something that doesn’t require you.
And when someone offers genuine help, practice receiving it instead of automatically saying, “I got it.”

Timestamps

00:00 — Birthday reflections and the “I got it” habit
03:28 — Why independence is not the problem
05:03 — Capability versus refusing support
06:34 — When disappointment makes help feel unsafe
08:27 — The lonely burden of being the strong friend
10:00 — Shot put success and the role of support staff
14:11 — Why receiving help does not diminish ownership
16:08 — When people assume the strong person doesn't need help
18:47 — The towel-folding story and control
21:10 — The real cost of doing everything yourself
23:27 — How business growth stops at personal capacity
25:42 — Doing everything alone can keep you small
26:51 — The Four Ps of a Podium Life
27:28 — Asking for support in fitness, business, and home life
30:49 — What requires Michelle vs. what can be delegated
32:10 — Communicating what help actually looks like
35:17 — Preserve: what to stop carrying
39:45 — Weekly challenge: Ask. Delegate. Receive.
42:53 — Living a Podium Life without carrying everything alone

From This Episode

“Just because you can doesn’t mean you have to do it alone.”

“Doing everything yourself can feel powerful while quietly keeping you small.”

“The performance may be individual, but the preparation isn’t.”

🎙️ The Podium Life Podcast with Michelle Carter

#ShotDiva #PodiumLife #ChampionsMindset #PersonalGrowth #Leadership

More ways to connect

• https://www.shotdiva.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.instagram.com/shotdiva/

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What opportunities are you asking for, and are you actually preparing yourself to receive them?

In this episode of The Podium Life Podcast, Olympic gold medalist Michelle Carter talks about the difference between wanting something and actually being prepared for it.

Sometimes the opportunity isn't the problem. It's our preparation.

Michelle reflects on what preparation looked like during her Olympic career and how that same principle applies beyond sports. Training didn't start when the big opportunity arrived. The work had already been done through consistent training, nutrition, recovery, feedback, adjustments, and showing up over and over again.

The same question applies to the goals we have today.

In this episode:

• Why wanting an opportunity isn't the same as preparing for it
• What Olympic preparation taught Michelle about readiness
• Why opportunities reveal the preparation you've already done
• Looking honestly at what your goals require from you
• Preparing your finances, health, relationships, business, and life for growth
• Making sure your daily actions match what you're asking for

Your Podium Question

If the opportunity you've been asking for showed up tomorrow, would you actually be ready for it?

And if the answer is no, that's your starting point.

Ask yourself:

What does my goal actually require from me?

Then start preparing for it today.

🏆 The Podium Life Podcast with Michelle Carter

Subscribe and join me as we talk about what it takes to build a life you're proud to stand on the podium for.

#ShotDiva #PodiumLife #MichelleCarter #ChampionsMindset #Preparation #PersonalGrowth

More ways to connect

• https://www.shotdiva.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.instagram.com/shotdiva/

Send us Fan Mail

What does your podium look like right now?

You don’t need an Olympic medal, a certain amount of money, a title, or somebody else’s definition of success to live a Podium Life.

In this episode, Michelle Carter breaks down what it really means to identify your podium—the life, goal, or next level you are intentionally working toward. Your podium may be better health, a stronger business, financial freedom, deeper relationships, greater confidence, peace, faith, or simply becoming the person you know you are capable of becoming.

Michelle reflects on how her own podium has changed since winning Olympic gold in 2016. The goals that once defined success for her aren't necessarily the goals that define success today—and that's not failure. Your podium is allowed to change as you change.

She also explores one of the biggest traps that keeps people from reaching their podium: training for somebody else's event. Comparison, family expectations, social media, and outside pressure can have you working incredibly hard toward a life you don't actually want.

Then Michelle introduces the framework behind The Podium Life:

PREPARE → PERFORM → PRESENT → PRESERVE

Prepare — Build the foundation before the opportunity arrives.
Perform — Execute when it's time.
Present — Show up with confidence, clarity, and the ability to advocate for yourself.
Preserve — Develop the habits and character necessary to keep what you've built.

And because wanting something isn't the same as preparing for it, Michelle ends the episode with a simple challenge you can put into action this week.

Your Podium Challenge

Ask yourself:

What is my podium right now?

Then choose your three most important priorities and write down:

START: What do I need to begin doing?
STOP: What do I need to stop doing?
CONTINUE: What is already working that I need to keep doing?

Finally, identify one concrete preparation step you can take this week toward the life you say you want.

In This Episode

Michelle talks about redefining success as life changes, why comparison can put you in the wrong race, prioritizing health and strength, letting go of things that no longer serve you, preparing long before anyone sees the result, confidence and self-advocacy, the lessons behind her famous final throws, and the difference between getting to the podium and being able to stay there.

Episode Chapters

00:00 — Showing up even when everything isn't perfect
02:55 — What does “your podium” actually mean?
03:54 — Michelle's podium today: health, mobility & strength
06:51 — Stop chasing somebody else's definition of success
09:26 — Your goals are allowed to change
10:23 — Redefining freedom and letting go
12:04 — You can't train for somebody else's event
13:42 — The work nobody sees: preparation
17:10 — Questions to ask before pursuing a goal
20:07 — The power of the last throw
21:30 — Confidence, presence & self-advocacy
24:52 — Can you preserve what you've built?
27:07 — Prepare. Perform. Present. Preserve.
28:12 — Prioritizing health, home, heart & money
31:29 — Start. Stop. Continue.
34:27 — Your Podium Life challenge

Question for you:
What is YOUR podium right now?

Share it and tell me one thing you're going to start, stop, or continue this week to move toward it.

More ways to connect

• https://www.shotdiva.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.instagram.com/shotdiva/

Send us Fan Mail

Ten years ago, on August 12, 2016, I stepped into the Olympic shot put circle in Rio and walked away an Olympic champion.

A lot can happen in 10 years.

In this special anniversary episode of The Podium Life Podcast, I'm taking you back to that day—what I remember, what I was thinking, what it felt like to make history, and the years of preparation that happened before anyone ever saw me standing on top of that podium.

But this episode isn't only about winning gold.

I'm also catching you up on life after the medal—retirement, becoming a beginner again, coaching, entrepreneurship, beauty, speaking, leadership, personal growth, and discovering who Michelle Carter is when there isn't another Olympic Games to prepare for.

Ten years later, my definition of winning has changed.

In this episode, we talk about:

• What I remember most about August 12, 2016
• The preparation, setbacks, discipline, and belief behind the gold medal
• What people saw on the podium—and what they didn't see
• What happens when you finally accomplish the goal you've spent years chasing
• Navigating identity and purpose after elite competition
• Why being a beginner again doesn't erase being a champion
• What winning taught me about confidence, preparation, discipline, resilience, and growth
• How my definition of a Champion's Mindset has evolved
• What I've been doing over the last several years
• Why I'm bringing The Podium Life Podcast back now
• What it means to live a Podium Life when your next goal has nothing to do with a medal

🏆 Your Podium Moment

At the end of every episode, I'm leaving you with a Podium Moment—one question, thought, or challenge to carry into your own life.

Today's question:

What podium are you building right now—and are your daily habits preparing you to stand on it?

Your podium might be your health, faith, family, career, business, relationships, finances, confidence, purpose, or simply starting over.

You don't need an Olympic medal to live a Podium Life.

Everyone has a podium. The question is: What are you preparing yourself to stand on next?

Follow The Podium Life Podcast with Michelle Carter and join me as we take the lessons of a champion's mindset beyond the competition and into real life.

More ways to connect

• https://www.shotdiva.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.instagram.com/shotdiva/

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summary

In this episode of the Podium Life Podcast, Michelle Carter emphasizes the importance of storytelling through vivid imagery and emotional connection. She shares her personal journey, including her experiences leading up to winning an Olympic gold medal, and encourages listeners to craft their own stories with depth and detail. The conversation highlights the significance of defining moments and the power of storytelling in connecting with others.

takeaways

• Storytelling is about showing, not just telling.
• Creating vivid imagery helps the audience connect emotionally.
• Personal growth often comes from overcoming challenges.
• Defining moments can shape our journeys significantly.
• Using all five senses enhances storytelling.
• Emotions should be conveyed through actions in stories.
• Reflecting on past experiences can provide new insights.
• Crafting stories can be a powerful tool for connection.
• Sharing your story can inspire and help others.
• Mindset and affirmations are crucial in storytelling.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Storytelling

03:29
The Power of Personal Experience

18:13
The Moment of Triumph

23:22
Crafting Your Story

29:04
Mindset and Affirmation

More ways to connect

• https://www.shotdiva.com/
• https://theshotdivastore.com
• https://www.onegoldenshot.org/
• https://thepodiumlifepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.instagram.com/shotdiva/
• https://www.instagram.com/thepodiumlifepodcast/

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Summary
In this episode of the Podium Life podcast, Michelle Carter shares her personal experiences and insights on the importance of feelings in relationships, the power of storytelling, and living a life set apart. She emphasizes the significance of vulnerability and emotional connections in sharing one's story, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experiences and how they can impact others. Michelle also discusses her journey as an Olympian, the challenges she faced with her health, and how those experiences shaped her perspective on life and success.

Takeaways

• How you make people feel is crucial.
• Vulnerability is key in storytelling.
• Everyone has a unique story to tell.
• Your life experiences can inspire others.
• Emotional connections enhance storytelling.
• Treat others as you wish to be treated.
• Self-reflection is important for personal growth.
• Living a life set apart requires sacrifices.
• Hope can come from unexpected places.
• Your story can set someone free.

Sound Bites

• "People will never forget how you made them feel."
• "Nobody's story is perfect."
• "Use your tongue responsibly."
• "You are set apart."
• "Your life is not just for you."
• "The world needs your voice."
• "I am embracing the softer side of me."
• "I look forward to hearing from you all."

Chapters

00:00
Weekly Recap and Culinary Adventures

05:33
The Impact of Feelings on Relationships

11:15
The Power of Storytelling

28:18
Living a Life Set Apart

35:07
Emotional Connections in Storytelling

More ways to connect

• https://www.shotdiva.com/
• https://theshotdivastore.com
• https://www.onegoldenshot.org/
• https://thepodiumlifepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.instagram.com/shotdiva/
• https://www.instagram.com/thepodiumlifepodcast/

Send a text

Summary
In this episode of the Podium Life podcast, Michelle Carter shares her journey as an Olympian, emphasizing that our stories are not just for ourselves but also serve to guide and inspire others. She reflects on her experiences during Easter, her time in cosmetology school, and the importance of overcoming obstacles and self-doubt. Michelle discusses her path to Olympic gold, her challenges, and how her journey can help others navigate their paths. The episode concludes with a powerful affirmation about being a guidepost for others and living life to the fullest.

Takeaways

• Your story isn't just about you; it's for others.
• You are not always the hero; sometimes you are the guide.
• Winning can be easy, but the journey is what matters.
• Overcoming self-doubt is crucial for success.
• Believing in your goals is essential to achieving them.
• Your journey can inspire and guide others.
• Every obstacle faced is a lesson learned.
• Living a step above the rest helps others do the same.
• Your experiences are valuable and can help others.
• It's important to reflect on your journey and share it.

Chapters

00:00
Easter Reflections and Personal Growth

02:23
Your Story is Not Just About You

03:51
The Journey to Olympic Success

11:21
Overcoming Obstacles and Self-Doubt

15:00
The Hero's Journey and Guiding Others

17:29
Using Your Experience to Help Others

21:56
Affirmation and Closing Thoughts

More ways to connect

• https://www.shotdiva.com/
• https://theshotdivastore.com
• https://www.onegoldenshot.org/
• https://thepodiumlifepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.instagram.com/shotdiva/
• https://www.instagram.com/thepodiumlifepodcast/

Send a text

Summary

In this episode of the Podium Life podcast, Michelle Carter shares her emotional journey following the loss of her brother and the importance of rest and self-care. She discusses the challenges of navigating life changes, building confidence, and overcoming fear. Michelle emphasizes the significance of self-discovery and resilience, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own challenges and let go of limiting beliefs. The episode concludes with affirmations and a reminder to embrace one's worth and authenticity.

Takeaways

• Rest is essential for emotional and physical well-being.
• Life changes can be daunting, but embracing uncertainty is key.
• Confidence is built through experience and overcoming challenges.
• Fear should not dictate our actions; we must act despite it.
• Self-discovery is a continuous journey, especially after major life transitions.
• Reflecting on past challenges can help build resilience.
• Letting go of negative self-talk is crucial for self-worth.
• Everyone has unique value; not being liked by everyone is okay.
• Affirmations can help reinforce positive beliefs about oneself.
• Showing up authentically is vital for personal growth.

Quotes

• "Rest is just as important as work."
• "You can ruin your own confidence."
• "Confidence comes from not fearing to be wrong."
• "Confidence is built, not given."
• "You have to act as if you belong."
• "You're not everybody's cup of tea."
• "Confidence isn't the absence of doubt."

Chapters

00:00
Emotional Reflections and the Importance of Rest

03:08
Navigating Life Changes and Embracing Uncertainty

05:59
Building Confidence Through Experience

11:57
Overcoming Fear and Taking Action

18:12
The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth

23:56
Reflecting on Challenges and Building Resilience

30:02
Letting Go of Lies and Embracing Self-Worth

35:51
Affirmations and the Pathway to Greatness

More ways to connect

• https://www.shotdiva.com/
• https://theshotdivastore.com
• https://www.onegoldenshot.org/
• https://thepodiumlifepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.instagram.com/shotdiva/
• https://www.instagram.com/thepodiumlifepodcast/

Send a text

In this episode of The Podium Life, Olympic medalist Michelle Carter returns to share her journey of personal growth and the importance of understanding one's 'why.' She reflects on her experiences, including the loss of her brother, and how it has shaped her mission to empower others. Michelle discusses her initiatives, such as the Youth Throw Girls Sports Confidence Camp, and emphasizes the significance of creating meaningful connections and moments in life. She encourages listeners to define their own missions and share their stories, fostering a community of support and inspiration.

Takeaways

• Understanding your 'why' is crucial for achieving goals.
• Your experiences shape your mission and purpose.
• Empowering others can lead to personal fulfillment.
• Life's challenges can inspire greater determination.
• Creating meaningful moments is essential for growth.
• Confidence is key to pursuing your dreams.
• Don't compare your journey to others.
• Intentionality in actions leads to impactful results.
• Sharing your story can inspire others.
• Embrace change and pursue your passions.

Chapters

00:00
The Journey of Podium Life

01:01
Understanding Your Why

03:38
Empowering Young Women Through Sports

05:48
Creating Meaningful Products

07:58
Transformative Experiences and Personal Growth

09:25
Finding Strength in Loss

14:26
Defining Your Mission and Vision

17:55
Sharing Podium Moments

21:14
Encouragement and Community Engagement

23:08
New Beginnings in Cosmetology

More ways to connect

• https://www.shotdiva.com/
• https://theshotdivastore.com
• https://www.onegoldenshot.org/
• https://thepodiumlifepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• Email: [email protected]
• https://www.instagram.com/shotdiva/
• https://www.instagram.com/thepodiumlifepodcast/