Thanks for tuning in to another episode of By Their Side, friends. I am joined today by the great Gaelin Elmore, former NFL player and current passionate advocate for youth facing adversity. As a child, Gaelin was very much a part of the foster system, but his experience, while inspiring because of how he overcame such challenges, was not a happy one. Listen as Gaelin reflects on his journey through foster care and how he discovered an incredibly important truth, that belonging is the key to surviving and thriving.

Gaelin reflects on how the concept of belonging changed his life, turning difficult situations into opportunities to grow, and he talks about a pivotal moment with his high school coach, who showed him the power of community and brotherhood at a time when Gaelin was ready to give up. That experience of his, along with the many others who supported him along the way, helped him realize that we all play a role in creating places of belonging.

Throughout our conversation, Gaelin also discusses how this fundamental human need can truly change lives, encouraging us to look at our own lives and see how we can show up for others, whether we know their story or not.

For anyone struggling with a sense of belonging, Gaelin Elmore offers practical advice on how to begin the necessary work to embrace who we are and seek places where we can truly be ourselves. This episode is a reminder that change is a journey, and small, consistent actions can have lasting impacts!

Highlights:

[1:55] - Gaelin's childhood was unstable, but he now uses his story to help others.

[4:38] - Belonging has shaped Gaelin's life, making hardships bearable.

[6:26] - Hear how Gaelin's understanding of belonging has grown over time.

[9:41] - Belonging is often overlooked, urging reflection on those who provide it.

[10:16] - Gaelin credits his high school coach for teaching him the importance of belonging and community.

[12:30] - Gaelin's coach's support came at the right time, aided by others' earlier help.

[15:43] - Even just small acts of support accumulate over time, contributing to significant long-term change.

[16:36] - Noting that change is gradual and often unnoticed, Gaelin compares his growth to TV show character, Jamie Tartt.

[19:20] - It's important to create inclusive spaces by showing kindness and commitment to all.

[21:56] - True belonging is about being yourself in spaces where others can also be themselves.

[26:40] - Gaelin embraces his strengths and challenges, creating honest connections without blaming himself when rejected.

[28:58] - Internal work helps Gaelin separate his worth from relationships, recognizing when he truly belongs.

[30:25] - Gaelin argues that acceptance of ourselves allows us to show up fully in relationships, embracing imperfections and insecurities.

[32:05] - Consistently investing in others helps them recognize their value, even if they don't immediately recognize it.

[35:07] - People who are used to positive reinforcement show up differently, but some others need help learning to receive it.

[37:22] - Gaelin's coach's patience and commitment ultimately helped him feel seen and supported.

[39:38] - Hear how a meaningful conversation with his coach led Gaelin to trust, growth, and a stronger relationship.

[41:10] - Giving agency in relationships can be so powerful.