In this episode of the Athlete Mindset Podcast, host Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, speaks with Oz Marginean, former NCAA D1 athlete, professional basketball player, and Head of Community at The True Athlete Project. They discuss the complexities of athlete identity, transitioning out of sport, and the power of mindfulness, playful movement, and creativity in athletic development. As part of the True Athlete Project Series, Oz shares her journey of overcoming performance anxiety, finding purpose beyond basketball, and redefining success and fulfillment.

Key Takeaways from “The True Athlete Project Series: Embracing Identity and Purpose with Oz Marginean”

• The importance of exploring other identities while still playing sports to ease the transition process and prevent identity crises post-retirement.
• Performance anxiety and burnout are common challenges, especially when tied to perfectionism and external validation.
• Mindfulness and playful movement can enhance body awareness, presence, and connection, helping athletes find balance and reduce anxiety.
• Creativity and identity exploration beyond sports are essential for holistic well-being and personal growth.
• Building relationships outside the athletic bubble helps in developing a well-rounded identity and support system.
• Starting the transition process while actively playing, including exploring values, passions, and relationships, leads to a healthier adjustment.
• The True Athlete Project integrates mindfulness, creativity, and social responsibility to create a compassionate and holistic sport culture.

For more on Oz Marginean and The True Athlete Project, visit: thetrueathleteproject.org

Credits: Athlete Mindset is part of the SportsE Media platform.
Produced by KazCM and featured on the QuietLoud Studios podcast network.

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Connect with the guest, host, and podcast production team:

• Oz Marginean: LinkedIn | Instagram | website
• Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC: LinkedIn | Instagram | website
• SportsE Media: LinkedIn | X | TikTok

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Music: Beat Provided By freebeats.io | Produced By White Hot