Competing in Joy, through Loss, with Love — Zed Williams

Episode summaryProfessional lacrosse champion Zed Williams has won championships, competed at the highest level, and inspired thousands through the game he loves. But behind the success is a story of unimaginable loss, resilience, and purpose.In one of his most personal conversations ever, Zed opens up about losing his stepson Noah, how grief nearly changed everything, and why the game of lacrosse ultimately became his medicine. He shares lessons on discipline, family, leadership, fatherhood, competition, and what it truly means to keep moving forward when life falls apart.From growing up on the reservation to becoming one of the most respected players in professional lacrosse, this conversation explores why greatness isn't built through talent alone. It's built through commitment, humility, and choosing to keep competing, even on your hardest days.Whether you're an athlete, parent, coach, or simply someone navigating adversity, this episode offers a powerful reminder that purpose can still be found after profound loss.Enjoy.What We CoverGrowing up with discipline, family, and strong valuesHow environment shapes successFrom small-town athlete to Division I lacrosseWhy consistency matters more than talentFinding joy in the process, not just the resultsCompeting with purpose over egoBalancing fatherhood, marriage, and professional sportsFinding healing through sports after the loss of his stepson NoahLeadership, legacy, and the true meaning of greatnessChapters00:00 — Losing His Stepson and Finding Purpose Again01:13 — The Quiet Competitor05:30 — The Power of Discipline and Family08:10 — Becoming Obsessed with Improvement13:24 — Why Most People Stay Comfortable16:31 — Leaving Home and Starting Over20:24 — Success Beyond Statistics26:13 — Giving Back to the Game28:26 — Advice for Young Athletes31:06 — When Grief Changes Everything36:38 — Football, Lacrosse, and Following Purpose43:00 — The Spiritual Meaning of the Medicine Game48:38 — Playing for Something Bigger Than Yourself51:55 — Advice for Young Professionals55:55 — Defining Greatness59:53 — Final ReflectionsKey TakeawaysDiscipline creates opportunities that talent alone cannot.Growth begins when you leave your comfort zone.The best athletes fall in love with the daily process.Purpose gives suffering meaning.Competition is about becoming your best, not proving your worth.Grief can become a source of strength instead of defeat.Family and relationships are life's greatest foundation.Greatness is measured by how you impact others, not by trophies.About Zed WilliamsZed Williams is a professional lacrosse player, champion, and one of the sport's most respected competitors. Known for his toughness, humility, and leadership, he has played at the highest levels of both field and box lacrosse.Beyond his accomplishments on the field, Zed is passionate about mentoring young athletes, growing the game, and living with integrity. His journey is defined not only by championships, but by resilience, family, and using adversity to inspire others.Resources MentionedQuiet by Susan CainA Path Lit by Lightning (Jim Thorpe)University of Virginia Men's LacrossePremier Lacrosse League (PLL)National Lacrosse League (NLL)Buffalo Bills Rookie MinicampMarquette Men's LacrosseMental Health ResourcesIf you or someone you know is struggling with grief, depression, or thoughts of suicide, please reach out to a trusted family member, mental health professional, or your local crisis service. You don't have to face difficult seasons alone. Asking for help is a sign of strength.Other Ways to Listen and Watch🎧 Listen/Watch on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ruq1L8SNPyGmAqLdrVAVQ🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grateful-and-full-of-greatness-with-mark-glicini/id1498665905?uo=4🌐 Visit Mark Glicini's Website: https://www.markglicini.com/