221: Redefining Athlete Identity Through Different Seasons of Life with Kristi O'Connell

In this episode, I sit down with Kristi O'Connell to explore what it really means to have an "athlete brain" and how that identity evolves over time. Kristi shares her journey from being a Division I swimmer to a seven-time CrossFit Games athlete, and how stepping away from high-level competition forced her to reassess her relationship with training, performance, and self-worth.   We talk about the pressure many athletes feel to constantly push harder, the fear of losing fitness or identity when priorities shift, and why learning to adapt training to fit your current season of life is a form of growth—not weakness. Kristi offers thoughtful insight into finding balance, redefining success, and staying active in a way that supports both physical and mental well-being.   This conversation is especially for anyone who has ever struggled with letting go of who they used to be as an athlete and is learning how to build a healthier, more sustainable relationship with fitness moving forward.   Connect with Kristi: IG: @kristioconnell_  Website: https://ibextrained.com/   Ready to coach pregnant & postpartum athletes with confidence? This is your last chance to join us for the Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism LIVE Coaching Certification—a hands-on, in-person experience built for coaches who want real-world skills, not just theory. 📍 San Diego, CA 📅 February 21–22, 2026 👉 Save your spot: https://join.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/ppa-live-certification     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!