Danny Sullivan on Diving, Leadership, and Trusting the Process | Season 2, Ep 28

In Episode 28 of The Late Start Show, we sit down with Danny Sullivan, senior diver on University School’s five-time straight state champion swimming and diving team, Anderson House prefect, golfer, skier, and musician. Danny reflects on growing up as a quiet kid who slowly grew into himself, arriving at US in seventh grade unsure of whether he belonged, and how that uncertainty quickly gave way to deep friendships, lasting traditions, and a genuine love for the school community. He looks back on some of the people and moments that shaped him most, from the handshake line and the friendships built in the halls to teachers like Mr. Richmond who helped him discover the value of persistence, confidence, and growth. From the fear and focus required on the diving board to the mental pressure of individual sports like golf, Danny opens up about learning how to trust his preparation, push through fear, and lead with consistency. He shares what it has meant to serve as a house prefect, the story behind his memorable senior speech performance at the piano, and why leadership, kindness, and community have become the values that matter most to him. Looking ahead to Middlebury and a future that may include economics, environmental studies, skiing, golf, and plenty of new interests, Danny talks about wanting a life centered on passion, friendship, and growth, and leaves listeners with a clear “why”: the people around him, the community he has built, and the chance to keep showing up for others while doing what he loves. Credits to Theo Walter for Production and Editing, Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.