Champion Secrets

In this episode of the Champion Secrets Podcast, Christian Honer sits down with Olympian Carsten Vissering to discuss the mindset, journey, and unexpected path that led him from NCAA swimming champion to Olympic bobsled athlete. Carsten was a five-time All-American swimmer at USC and an NCAA Champion before discovering a new passion for explosive training in the weight room. That passion eventually led him to pursue bobsled — and ultimately compete at the Winter Olympics. But the story isn’t just about athletic success. Carsten shares powerful insights about: • Why loving the process matters more than chasing outcomes • The mental challenges athletes face at the highest level • Why burnout is so common in elite sports • How balancing career, relationships, and athletics improves performance • What athletes can learn from pursuing purpose beyond their sport One of the most powerful lessons from Carsten’s journey: “Don’t build your life around the sport. Build your life — and let the sport be part of it.” Carsten also shares what it’s like competing in a sport where Olympic dreams can be decided by milliseconds, injuries, or circumstances outside of your control — and how staying grounded in the process helps athletes perform at their best. In This Episode • The transition from NCAA swimming to Olympic bobsled • Why Carsten walked away from Olympic swimming • How loving training changed his career • Managing pressure at the Olympic level • Balancing a corporate career while competing professionally • The mindset behind elite performance About Carsten Vissering Carsten Vissering is: • NCAA Champion swimmer (USC) • Five-time All-American • Pac-12 Champion • Olympic bobsled athlete Outside of sport, Carsten works in consulting while continuing to train and pursue Olympic success. 👍 Subscribe for more conversations with world-class athletes 🎙️ New Champion Secrets episodes every week Champion Secrets Show

Welcome to the Champion Secrets Podcast, where we interview high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and humans who I consider champions — so we can all become champions in our own way. Today’s guest is retired USA Beach Volleyball player Emily, now training to become an amateur boxer. Yes… boxer. In this episode, we dive deep into: Growing up in a faith-based, athletic family Racing dirt bikes and skiing as a child Playing 4 sports in high school Transferring colleges and navigating recruiting stress Shoulder surgery and overseas volleyball Starting beach volleyball at 26 Chasing the Olympics — twice Olympic heartbreak and therapy Learning emotional awareness and leadership Retiring at peace Transitioning into boxing and extreme sport performance training Trusting God when your biggest dream doesn’t happen Emily opens up about: What it feels like to miss the Olympics Why therapy changed her life Why she walked away from volleyball while playing her best How faith shaped her perspective Why she’s stepping into the boxing ring next This conversation is about resilience, identity, reinvention, and trusting God’s timing. If you’re an athlete navigating highs and lows… If you’re chasing a dream… If you’re transitioning into a new chapter… This one’s for you. 🔔 Subscribe for more Champion Secrets episodes. 💬 Drop a comment — what part of Emily’s story hit you the most? Champion Secrets Show

Welcome to the Champion Secrets Podcast, where we interview high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and humans I consider champions — so we can all become champions in our own way. Today’s guest is 2x Olympian, AVP Champion, and one of the most respected veterans in professional beach volleyball — John Hyden. From nearly quitting volleyball to becoming an Olympian… From indoor national team standout to AVP champion… From world-class competitor to devoted husband and father… John shares what sustained excellence really looks like. In this episode, we discuss: How a rainy-day tryout changed his life The discipline instilled by brutal college training Making the Olympic team after being told it was already set Transitioning from indoor to beach at nearly 30 The mindset shift required to compete internationally Manifestation and the “penny wish” story that shaped his Olympic journey Navigating fatherhood, technology, and raising grounded kids Building Hyden Beach and mentoring the next generation John also opens up about the role his wife has played in his success — from recovery, support, and sacrifice to being the emotional anchor behind the scenes. This conversation isn’t just about volleyball. It’s about longevity, leadership, family, and staying disciplined in a distracted world. Champion Secrets Show

Welcome to the Champion Secrets Podcast, where we interview high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and humans I consider champions — so we can all become champions in our own way. Today’s guest is Olympic Gold Medalist, beach volleyball legend, coach, and entrepreneur — Eric Fonoimoana. Eric’s Olympic dream began at just 7 years old after watching his sister compete on the world stage. That childhood vision fueled a 24-year journey filled with heartbreak, relentless conditioning, financial risk, and unwavering discipline — culminating in Olympic Gold at age 31. In this episode, we dive into: Growing up the youngest of six and learning to compete early Crying after losses and refusing to blame teammates Buying 10 AVP tickets on a credit card with no guarantee Training with weighted gear and extreme conditioning methods The Belgium tournament that decided his Olympic fate Turning Olympic pressure into peak performance Transitioning from professional athlete to entrepreneur and father The mindset required to stay even-keeled under extreme pressure Eric shares what separates champions from competitors — and how leadership, discipline, and self-accountability shaped his entire career. If you want to understand the mindset behind Olympic greatness, this episode is for you. Champion Secrets Show

Welcome back to the Champion Secrets Podcast with Christian Honer — this episode is one for the ages. Recorded live at Super Bowl 2026 Media Row, Christian sits down with the legendary Dave Stevens: the only man in history to play college football and minor league baseball without legs. Dave’s story defies logic. Born without legs, adopted into a loving home, and raised with a mindset of no excuses — Dave went on to become a 3-sport high school athlete, a D1 college football player, a minor league baseball player, a 20-year ESPN broadcaster, and now, a viral voice for the disabled community. In this episode, we dive into: How Dave became a national sports icon without legs His tryouts with the Dallas Cowboys, Twins, Reds, and Olympic baseball team What it means to walk the talk and leave a lasting legacy The role of his coaches, family, and faith in shaping his mindset Why he’s building a foundation to help disabled youth break into broadcasting How to deal with internet trolls and hate without losing your peace The moment he went viral (after 30+ Super Bowls) and what’s next 📚 Check out Christian’s book: athletementorship.com 📱 Follow Christian: @christianvball 📱 Follow Dave: @DaveyStevenSpeaks 🎥 Watch the Netflix film: Saying A Second Chance Champion Secrets Show

Welcome to the Champion Secrets podcast, where I interview high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and inspiring individuals to uncover the secrets to their success. In this episode, we’re honored to have Casey Patterson, an Olympian, father, coach, and entrepreneur, join us to share his incredible journey both on and off the volleyball court.Casey dives deep into his experiences as a professional beach volleyball player, how family life transformed his approach to the sport, and his transition into coaching and entrepreneurship. He also opens up about his spiritual journey and the importance of purpose, discipline, and mentorship in achieving lasting success.Show Notes:Introduction:Welcome to the Champion Secrets podcast.Introduction of Casey Patterson, Olympian, coach, and entrepreneur.Casey Patterson's Background:Casey’s journey from being an amateur volleyball player to an Olympian.The role of family and fatherhood in shaping his career.Transitioning from professional sports to coaching and entrepreneurship.The Role of Coaching and Mentorship:Casey’s coaching philosophy and his approach to guiding young athletes.Importance of effort, mindset, and resilience in sports and life.How Casey uses his experiences to teach life lessons through volleyball.Embracing New Challenges:Casey’s transition to pickleball and how he’s applying his athletic experience to a new sport.The excitement and challenges of starting fresh in a different athletic field.Balancing family life with personal and professional growth.Spirituality and Purpose:The influence of Casey’s spiritual beliefs on his life and career.The impact of his mission trip on his outlook and work ethic.How faith continues to guide his decisions and actions.Entrepreneurship Journey:Casey’s dive into media, marketing, and content creation post-volleyball.The challenges and rewards of building something new from the ground up.The future of Casey’s entrepreneurial endeavors and his vision for the next chapter.Personal Insights and Advice:How to stay motivated and find purpose in every phase of life.The importance of building a strong support system.Casey’s advice for young athletes and entrepreneurs looking to carve out their own paths.Conclusion:Recap of key takeaways from the episode.Where to find Casey Patterson online and how to connect with him.Thank you to Casey for sharing his journey, insights, and experiences.Quotes:“Finding that purpose beyond the sport was what really transformed my career and life.”“As an athlete, you learn to adapt, to grow, and to face challenges head-on. That’s a lesson that applies to every area of life.”“Having a strong support system—whether it’s your team, your family, or your faith—can make all the difference in achieving your goals.”Tune in to discover Casey Patterson’s journey from Olympic glory to a fulfilling life of coaching, entrepreneurship, and fatherhood. This episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice for anyone looking to lead a purpose-driven life and excel in their passions.Join us as we dive into Casey Patterson's story and uncover the Champion Secrets that can help you succeed in your own journey. Champion Secrets Show

Welcome to the Champion Secrets podcast, where I interview high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and inspiring individuals to uncover the secrets to their success. In this episode, we sit down with Sam Green, a powerhouse in the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) space and the go-to content creator for athletes.Sam shares her incredible journey from being an NBA dancer to becoming a top NIL advisor. She discusses her passion for helping athletes monetize their talents, the importance of content creation, and how she educates athletes on building their brands. With hands-on experience and deep industry knowledge, Sam provides invaluable insights into the evolving world of NIL.Show Notes:Introduction:Welcome to the Champion Secrets podcast.Introduction of Sam Green, NIL expert and content creator for athletes.Sam Green's Background:Journey from being an NBA dancer to an NIL advisor.Early career in sports media and content creation.Transition to helping athletes with NIL and content strategies.Discovering NIL:How Sam first got involved in the NIL space.The impact of NIL legalization on athletes.Key challenges and opportunities in the NIL landscape.Content Creation for Athletes:Importance of content creation in the NIL era.Strategies for athletes to build their personal brands.Tips on creating engaging and effective content.Working with Universities and Athletes:Sam’s approach to consulting with universities.Examples of successful NIL programs and partnerships.The role of education in maximizing NIL potential.Future of NIL:Upcoming changes and trends in the NIL industry.How athletes can stay ahead in the NIL game.Sam’s vision for the future of NIL and athlete branding.Personal Insights and Advice:Balancing work and personal life in the sports industry.Importance of passion and persistence in achieving success.Advice for young athletes and entrepreneurs entering the NIL space.Conclusion:Recap of key takeaways from the episode.Where to find Sam Green online and how to connect with her.Thank you to Sam for sharing her insights and experiences.Links and Resources:Follow Sam Green on Instagram: @SamGreenNILLearn more about NIL and content creation workshops.Previous episodes and more interviews on Champion Secrets.Quotes:“At the end of the day, something like my husband even always said was like, when you wake up every day, you need to know like what your goal is and what you're building so that you can kind of go all in on that.”"I felt like the industry was literally made for me. It was all the things that I had loved: sports, athletes, media content. I was like, this is it."Tune in to learn about Sam's unique approach to NIL, her strategies for success, and how she's making a difference in the lives of athletes. Whether you're an athlete looking to maximize your NIL opportunities or someone interested in the business of sports, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.Join us as we dive into Sam Green's story and discover how you can become a champion athlete while taking advantage of NIL, brand building and content creation! Champion Secrets Show

Highlights:Early Athletic Background: Greg McLean shares his journey from playing multiple sports in high school to his initial pursuit of an engineering degree at ASU.Career Switch to Fitness: Greg discusses his transition from engineering to exercise science, driven by his newfound passion for fitness and weightlifting.First Steps in Personal Training: Starting at 24 Hour Fitness and transitioning to Lifetime Fitness, Greg highlights the significant differences in client demographics and training approaches.Entrepreneurial Spirit: Greg's early dabbling in real estate reveals his entrepreneurial mindset, leading him to eventually co-found Premier Fitness Systems with Brandon.Building Premier Fitness Systems: The journey of creating a gym with a unique culture, catering to both high-level athletes and everyday individuals, and emphasizing community and camaraderie.Health Challenges and Discoveries: Greg opens up about his personal health challenges, including hitting a wall with burnout, discovering he had celiac disease, and making significant lifestyle changes.Holistic Approach to Fitness: Greg’s evolution into focusing on airway health, sleep, and breathing, driven by his own health journey and a desire to offer comprehensive wellness to his clients.Summary: In this episode of the Champion Secrets podcast, host Christian welcomes Greg McLean, co-founder of Premier Fitness Systems in Scottsdale, Arizona. Greg shares his journey from a high school athlete to a college engineering student, and eventually to a successful personal trainer and gym owner. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to switch careers, his experiences in the fitness industry, and the entrepreneurial drive that fueled his passion for creating a unique gym culture. Greg also delves into his personal health challenges, including burnout and celiac disease, and how these experiences shaped his holistic approach to fitness and wellness. Tune in to hear Greg’s inspiring story and learn about the importance of airway health, sleep, and breathing in achieving optimal health. Champion Secrets Show

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Champion Secrets podcast, where we explore the journeys of high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and individuals who exemplify what it means to be a champion. Today, we have the privilege of hosting Michelle Meyer, an entrepreneur, athlete, and the founder of the NIL Network. Michelle's journey from collegiate athletics to becoming a key figure in the evolving NIL landscape is nothing short of inspiring.Key Highlights from Michelle's Journey:Early Athletic Pursuits: Michelle shares her journey as a three-sport athlete in high school and her deep-rooted passion for volleyball, which led her to play at UC Santa Barbara and later to coach at various prestigious institutions.Transition to Coaching: From playing to coaching, Michelle's experiences at Hawaii and Pepperdine provided her with insights into the collegiate sports environment, further fueling her interest in supporting athletes beyond their playing years.Birth of NIL Network: The pivotal moment when Michelle recognized the impending impact of NIL legislation and decided to create a hub of resources and education for athletes, universities, and businesses to navigate this new landscape.Entrepreneurial Spirit: Michelle's relentless drive and entrepreneurial mindset, highlighted by her initiative to reach out to volleyball clubs in Europe and her determination to learn website development during COVID-19, showcase her adaptability and vision.Impact of NIL on Collegiate Athletes: Insights into how NIL opportunities can provide athletes with real-life skills, financial support, and brand-building experiences that extend beyond their sports careers.Challenges and Growth: Discussion on the challenges faced by local businesses in engaging with NIL opportunities and the growth potential of the NIL market, emphasizing the importance of education and relationship-building.Future of NIL: Michelle's perspective on the evolving NIL landscape, including the implications of ongoing legal battles and the potential for more structured and transparent NIL deals that benefit both athletes and businesses. Champion Secrets Show

Welcome to another gripping episode of the Champion Secrets podcast, where we explore the journeys of those who have battled, triumphed, and set exemplary standards in their fields. Today, we have the honor of hosting Casey Jennings, a name synonymous with resilience, dedication, and the sheer will to surpass every expectation set before him.Casey Jennings, a figure revered not just for his remarkable achievements on the beach volleyball courts but for the battles he's fought off the court, takes us through his life's journey. From a passionate youngster in Las Vegas to a respected athlete, husband, father, and mentor, Casey's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, humility, and undying love for the sport of volleyball, winning and working hard.Key Highlights from Casey's Journey:The Early Years: A dive into Casey's childhood, exploring his early love for soccer and basketball before volleyball stole his heart. The influence of sports on Casey's upbringing in Las Vegas, and the move to Lake Tahoe that introduced him to the sport that would define his future.The Making of a Champion: The pivotal moments during his junior college years that shaped his career. The setbacks, the cut from Long Beach City College, and the resilience that led him to victories and accolades in both indoor and beach volleyball.Triumph and Tribulations at BYU: Winning the national championship with BYU, a dream that became a reality through sheer determination and team spirit. Casey shares the emotional rollercoaster of his senior year, from the highs of victory to the personal challenges that tested his resolve.A New Chapter: Post-college, Casey's professional career took off, but not without its hurdles. The decision to sober up, focus on his values, and the realization of the impact personal choices had on his career and relationships. Casey's candid reflection on the journey to finding balance and purpose beyond the court.The Legacy Continues: Now, as a coach and mentor, Casey is passing on his invaluable experiences, the importance of hard work, staying true to one's values, and the never-ending pursuit of excellence.Casey Jennings' story is not just about volleyball; it's about facing life's serves and spikes with the courage of a champion. His journey reminds us that behind every success is a story of struggle, resilience, and the undying belief in oneself. Champion Secrets Show

In this heartfelt episode of the Champion Secrets Podcast, we delve into the extraordinary life of Kyle Hanan, a man whose story transcends the boundaries of adversity, faith, and entrepreneurship. Known not only for his incredible resilience as a world record holder in surviving the most chemotherapy sessions but also for his profound journey from a small town in Oregon to the vibrant streets of Hollywood, California, and the transformative experience in Malaysia, Kyle's life is a testament to the power of growth, faith, and perseverance.Episode Highlights:Roots and Wings: Discover Kyle's early life in Oregon, marked by cold, rainy days and a traditional religious upbringing. Learn how his childhood laid the foundation for the incredible person he would become.Malaysian Awakening: Kyle shares the life-changing experience of living in Malaysia at 19, where he explored different cultures, religions, and perspectives, ultimately leading him back to his Christian faith with a newfound conviction.Entrepreneurial Spirit: From working alongside a serial entrepreneur uncle in Malaysia to launching his own businesses back in the States, Kyle's journey is filled with insights into the entrepreneurial mindset and the courage to pursue one's passions.Boxing Dreams to Fitness Reality: Kyle's initial dream of becoming a boxer shifted due to injuries, steering him towards a career in personal training and sports nutrition. This pivot illustrates the importance of adaptability and finding one's true calling through life's challenges.Faith and Healing: Amidst his battle with cancer, Kyle leans on his faith and the strength found in the Psalms, showcasing the integral role spirituality plays in overcoming personal trials and building resilience.Life in Hollywood: Kyle's adventurous move to Hollywood reflects his continuous search for growth and the desire to live life to the fullest, away from the confines of his small-town beginnings.Join Us:Embark on this inspiring journey with Kyle Hanan, a true champion in every sense of the word. His story is not just about surviving the odds but thriving beyond them, guided by faith, driven by entrepreneurial zeal, and supported by a loving family. Whether you're facing your own battles, searching for spiritual depth, or aspiring to entrepreneurial success, Kyle's story offers hope, inspiration, and practical wisdom for life's journey.Tune in to hear Kyle's full story, from the rain-soaked streets of Oregon to the sunlit avenues of Hollywood, and how he emerged as a beacon of resilience, faith, and entrepreneurial spirit. Champion Secrets Show

Join us in this profound episode of the Champion Secrets podcast as we dive deep into the life of Greg Jeffries, an extraordinary entrepreneur whose story transcends the realms of digital marketing and delves into the essence of spiritual awakening and financial mastery. Born and raised in a small town, Greg's journey to the bustling city of Austin, Texas, is not just a tale of geographical change but a testament to his incredible transformation from battling mental health challenges to discovering the peace that surpasses all understanding through a personal relationship with God.Episode Highlights:Spiritual Awakening: Experience the pivotal moment that changed Greg's life forever, as he shares the night he found his connection to God, transforming uncertainty into a profound peace and purpose.Financial Mastery: Learn how Greg cracked the code to creating passive income, multiplying money, and understanding the monetary system, laying a foundation that withstands life's storms.Mental Strength and Money: Discover the intertwined journey of gaining financial freedom and facing mental and spiritual challenges, emphasizing the importance of mastering money to navigate life's trials more effectively.Navigating Life's Storms: Greg opens up about the internal battles that come with success, the importance of embracing these challenges, and how financial stability can provide the freedom to seek healing and growth.The Infinite Pie: Dive into Greg's philosophy of abundance, where opportunities are limitless, and scarcity is a myth. His life is a testament to the abundance available when one is tuned into the right frequency.A New Creation: Greg reflects on his spiritual journey, from growing up in the church to truly experiencing a relationship with God. He shares how this transformation has reshaped his view of life, purpose, and happiness.Connect with Greg Jeffries:Embark on a journey with us as Greg Jeffries guides us through his remarkable transformation, illustrating that at the intersection of faith and financial savvy lies a path to true freedom and fulfillment. Whether you're seeking inspiration to navigate your own challenges, curious about the power of spiritual connection, or eager to understand the secrets to financial independence, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for all.Don't miss this captivating conversation that challenges the conventional, illuminates the spiritual, and inspires the entrepreneurial spirit to soar beyond limits.   Champion Secrets Show

In this solo episode of Champion Secrets, host Christian Honer opens up about the personal journey that led him to the creation of this podcast. From his early aspirations of becoming a professional baseball player to his deep dive into the realms of mindset, physical fitness, and spirituality, Christian shares the lessons learned from high-level athletes and entrepreneurs. Discover how mindset coaching, embracing physical challenges, and nurturing spiritual growth have been pivotal in his quest to become the best version of himself. Join Christian as he reflects on the insights gained from guests. Champion Secrets Show

In this inspiring episode of the Champion Secrets podcast, we are privileged to welcome Phil Dalhausser, an Olympic gold medalist and beach volleyball legend. Phil shares his extraordinary journey from his early days of discovering volleyball to standing atop the Olympic podium. Delving into his life beyond the sand, Phil discusses the challenges, victories, and personal growth he encountered along the way.Episode Summary:Phil Dalhausser’s unexpected entry and rise in the world of beach volleyball, leading to Olympic glory.The role of serendipity in his partnership with Todd Rogers and their path to becoming world-class athletes.Overcoming a shocking initial defeat in the Olympics to eventually clinch the gold medal.Phil’s candid exploration of his mental health struggles, highlighting the importance of therapy and personal well-being.How dealing with personal challenges and depression shaped him into the person he is today, both on and off the court.Phil’s unique perspective on life’s “battles,” maintaining a positive direction, and the continuous pursuit of self-improvement.Connect with Phil Dalhausser:Official Website: https://pdbva.com/Follow Phil on Instagram: @PhilDalhausserJoin us as we delve deep into the life of this volleyball icon, uncovering the layers beyond his athletic success and exploring his continuous journey of personal development and mental resilience. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in sports, the power of perseverance, and the pursuit of holistic success. Champion Secrets Show

In this insightful episode of the Champion Secrets podcast, join us as we delve into the life of Josh Forti, an entrepreneur who's not only reshaping the business world but also deeply rooted in his faith. As a fellow homeschooler and devout Christian, Josh shares his journey from his disciplined upbringing on a farm to his spiritual awakening and entrepreneurial success. We explore the profound impact of rededicating his life to Christ, debunking homeschooling stereotypes, and the intricate relationship between faith, identity, and business success.Episode Summary:Josh Forti's homeschooling experience and overcoming stereotypes.His unique journey of rediscovering faith and dedicating his life to Christ.The transformation from feeling guilty about money to embracing it as a reflection of his best self.How his faith in Jesus shapes his approach to entrepreneurship and life challenges.Josh's perspective on spiritual warfare, Bible study, and the end times.Connect with Josh Forti:JoshForti.com@JoshForti Champion Secrets Show

Description: Peek behind the curtain of champion secrets, handball, and the athlete journey with Ebiye Jeremy Udo-Udoma, a multi-sport national team athlete known as the "Handball Ninja." Discover his inspiring story from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated contender in international sports arenas. In this episode, we delve into Ebiye's unique training techniques, the mental toughness required handball, and how technology is shaping today's handball strategies. Plus, learn how Ebiye manages dual being a pro athlete and a creator. Join us as we explore the dedication and skill it takes to carve out greatness in professional handball.We discussed:The Ascent of a Handball Champion: Ebiye Jeremy Udo-Udoma’s JourneyTraining Techniques and the high's and low's of a Sand Handball ProOur story of when Christian & Ebiye met.CONNECT WITH EBIYE JEREMY UDO-UDOMATheir Website: handballninja.comTheir Social Media: @handballninjaRELEVANT LINKS:Watch Episode On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AelqcdFTIiAConnect With Christian Honer: @christianvballOther Relevant Links: ChampionSecrets.com Champion Secrets Show