Coming Down from the Olympic High with Nick Goepper

What this episode covers

This year's Winter Games are wrapping up, and while many athletes are still buzzing from the thrill of performing on the world's largest stage, what actually happens to an Olympian’s mental health when the limelight moves on? For freeskier Nick Goepper, after the US Men’s Team swept the slopestyle podium at the 2014 Sochi Olympics, it seemed like he’d ride that high forever. But when the television appearances and sponsorships slowed to a stop, he was left to wonder, what’s next? This week, Nick tells us about the realities of the post-Olympic depression so many athletes face, his journey to recovery, and how he’s changed his preparation for Milan. We’ll also hear from Olympic runner Alexi Pappas to get her take on this year’s Games and how she’s tackled similar challenges.  Show Notes Olympian Nick Goepper’s Comeback | HuffPost 3x Olympic Medalist Goepper Retires From Freeskiing | US Ski and Snowboard  Nick Goepper | My New Favorite Olympian Nick Goepper Podium Run | US Ski and Snowboard Mentor Buffett | Alexi Pappas Show Credits Host: David Greene Executive Producers: Joan Isabella, Tom Grahsler Senior Producer: Michael Olcott Producer: Michaela Winberg Associate Producer: Bibiana Correa Talent Booker: Britt Kahn Engineer: Mike Villers Tile Art: Bea Walling Sports in America is a production of WHYY, distributed by PRX, and part of the NPR podcast network.