Purpose After Sports

In this inspiring interview, Grace Telepak shares her journey from college basketball to becoming a strength and conditioning coach, overcoming injury, and embracing her identity beyond sports. Discover her insights on resilience, mentorship, community, and redefining success in fitness and life.

In this episode of Purpose After Sports, Mikki O’Neal sits down with former professional basketball player Olivia Nash to talk honestly about the athlete journey, from early competition to college basketball, playing professionally overseas, and the emotional reality of stepping away from the game.Olivia opens up about her competitive nature, the highs and lows of college athletics, navigating professional contracts in Germany and Finland, and the identity shift that comes when basketball is no longer the center of your life. She shares how injuries, body changes, and unspoken grief impacted her confidence, relationships, and sense of purpose, and how coaching became a meaningful way to stay connected to the sport.

Former Division I softball athlete Chanel Schweer joins Purpose After Sports to talk about life after competition, athlete identity, bodybuilding, mental health, and learning to find balance beyond sport. This episode is an honest conversation about pressure, purpose, and evolving as an athlete and a person.

Zach Cummings’ journey is the definition of perseverance.In this episode of the Purpose After Sports Podcast, Mikki O’Neal sits down with former college basketball player and creator Zach Cummings to unpack the real story behind the highlights. Zach opens up about losing his mother to cancer at 12 years old and how basketball became his therapy, the one place he could breathe when life felt too heavy.From injuries and high school setbacks to nearly quitting at 17, Zach shares the turning points that shaped him: finding the right mentor, learning how to self-promote when no one was watching, and rebuilding confidence every time the game — or life — knocked him back. His college path took him through five different schools, forcing him to repeatedly prove himself in new environments and grow through each season of uncertainty.We also dive into his transition after sport, how the athlete identity doesn’t just disappear when the final season ends, and why authenticity, mental health awareness, and goal setting became the foundation for his next chapter in content creation and podcasting.

In this episode of the Purpose After Sports podcast, Mikki O’Neal sits down with Tex McQuilkin, a former Division III lacrosse player turned strength and conditioning coach, speaker, and leadership educator.Tex shares his journey from athlete to transformational coach, breaking down lessons on leadership, self-discipline, and purpose beyond sports. He opens up about how relationships shape great coaching, the difference between transformational and transactional leadership, and how athletes can use the same drive that built them in competition to thrive after the game ends.If you’ve ever wondered how to carry your competitive edge into life after sport, this episode will give you the tools to do it.

In this episode of the PAS podcast, host Mikki O’Neal sits down with Erica Curry, a licensed therapist and former Division I athlete, to explore the often-overlooked side of the athletic journey, mental health and identity beyond sport.Erica shares her story of transitioning from gymnastics to diving after a career-ending injury and how that experience shaped her path toward becoming a therapist for athletes, performers, and high achievers.Together, they unpack topics like burnout, emotional regulation, values alignment, and coping strategies that help athletes navigate both performance pressure and life after the final whistle.This episode is full of insight, honesty, and takeaways for anyone who’s ever tied their identity to their sport.

In this episode of the PAS Podcast, Mikki O’Neal sits down with Alan Stein Jr., former basketball performance coach, keynote speaker, and bestselling author — to unpack the mindset strategies that help athletes and leaders thrive.Alan shares lessons from working with some of the game’s best, from the power of discipline and repetition to seeing feedback as a gift. He breaks down the Next Play mentality for navigating setbacks like injury, career shifts, or personal challenges, and why emotional agility, community, and self-reflection are essential for growth.This conversation blends stories from his career, insights from Raise Your Game, and a look ahead to his upcoming book Next Play. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or simply navigating transition, this episode will leave you with tools to bounce back stronger and perform with clarity and purpose.

In this episode of Purpose After Sports, Mikki O’Neal sits down with Bailey Ortega, former LSU volleyball player, to talk about her athlete journey, mental health, and what life looks like beyond the game.Bailey shares what it was like growing up in a sports family, her transition from basketball to volleyball, and the challenges of competing in college athletics. She opens up about the impact of mental health on her performance, the emotional rollercoaster of stepping away from the game, and how coaching has given her a new sense of confidence and purpose.This conversation is about more than volleyball, it’s about identity, growth, and the power of community for athletes navigating life after sports.

In this episode of the Purpose After Sports podcast, we sit down with Addison Stoller, former Division I basketball player turned Functional Health and Human Performance Coach. Addison shares her journey of leaving the game, finding her voice, and the critical role of vulnerability in unlocking growth.She opens up about the challenges athletes face in transition, why being vulnerable is a strength, and how personal stories, connection, and support can help us reach our full potential. Whether you’re a current athlete, a former athlete, or just navigating your own professional and personal development, Addison’s insights are both relatable and inspiring.

From playing Division 1 softball at Dartmouth to becoming a college strength & conditioning coach, Tessa Grossman shares her powerful journey of resilience, transition, and growth. She opens up about facing burnout, the impact of COVID-19 on her career, and the very real mental health struggles that athletes experience after leaving their sport.Tessa also reflects on building an intentional career in strength and conditioning, why vulnerability in coaching matters, and even her experience interviewing with Coach Prime at Colorado football. Her story is raw, inspiring, and full of insight for athletes, coaches, and anyone navigating life after sports.👉 Subscribe for more conversations on athlete journeys, career transitions, and mental health in sports.

In this episode, Nicolle Skoien shares her journey from being a Division 1 basketball player to becoming an academic advisor and counselor for student-athletes. She discusses the challenges faced during her athletic career, the importance of preparing for life after sports, and how the DISC assessment can enhance team dynamics. Nicolle also addresses current issues in the athlete community, including the impact of NIL regulations and the balance between family life and sports involvement.

In this episode, Mia shares her journey from being a Division I volleyball player at Ohio State University to transitioning into independent wrestling. She discusses her early love for volleyball, the challenges of injuries, and the mental resilience required to navigate life after sports. Mia emphasizes the importance of finding new passions, the unique bond with teammates, and how gratitude shapes her perspective on success.

In this episode of Purpose After Sports, we sit down with Delaney Taylor — former softball player at Drake University and now Assistant Athletic Trainer at Bradley University. Delaney shares her path from being an All-MVC athlete to working behind the scenes to support today’s student-athletes.She opens up about how she found athletic training  and what advice she’d give to anyone interested in working in sports medicine or support roles.💬 Whether you're a current athlete exploring career options or just curious about life after the game, this episode brings valuable insight.🔗 Subscribe for more athlete stories and tools for what’s next.

In this episode of Coach Brigs shares his inspiring journey from JUCO athlete to D1 football player and now a coach and entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges faced during his JUCO years, including the struggle for food and the determination to succeed. Coach Brigs reflects on his experiences in the Cotton Bowl, the transition to life after football, and the importance of coaching youth. He emphasizes the significance of building a personal brand for young athletes, especially in the NIL era, and shares valuable advice for parents and aspiring coaches. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the importance of resilience, authenticity, and the impact of mentorship in shaping the next generation of athletes.

In this conversation, Amy Morin, a licensed psychotherapist and bestselling author, shares her journey of personal loss and how it shaped her understanding of mental strength. She discusses the importance of vulnerability, the challenges of self-doubt, and the significance of having a purpose in life. Amy emphasizes the need for resilience in the face of change and the impact of comparison, especially among women. The discussion also touches on the balance between self-care and self-sabotage, as well as recognizing and addressing burnout. Throughout the conversation, Amy provides valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating life's challenges and embracing personal growth.

This week on Purpose After Sports, we sit down with Iman Tucker, an award-winning DJ, former collegiate track athlete, and two-time cancer survivor whose story goes far beyond the turntables.🎙 Who is Iman Tucker?Before becoming the official DJ for the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, and IU Athletics, Iman competed in track and field at the University of Indianapolis. But what truly sets him apart is the way he's turned life’s hardest moments, like battling Burkitt's Lymphoma twice, into fuel for his mission: using music and community to inspire resilience and purpose.We talk identity, transition, overcoming adversity, and finding your lane after sport.🔗 Connect with Iman TuckerInstagram: @iman_tucker🔗 Connect with Purpose After SportsInstagram: @purposeaftersportsWebsite: www.purposeaftersports.com🎟 P.S. We’re hosting our first-ever PAS Summit event this June in Wisconsin! Stay tuned on our socials for details, come through and be part of the movement.

Season 2 Kickoff 🎙️Football player Jared Martino joins host Mikki O'Neal to talk about the challenges of college football, injury setbacks, mental resilience, and finding purpose beyond the game.

This week, we sat down with Jackie Carmichael to dive into his journey. From tough decisions to unexpected full-circle moments, his story is a testament to how life unfolds in its own way. Sports played a major role in his path, but he also shares wisdom on embracing the joys and possibilities that come after the game.

This week, we’re excited to welcome Bailey Coffman! She had an incredible athletic career and is now embracing life after sports head-on. While staying connected to the game, she’s navigating a completely new role. Tune in to this week’s episode to hear her story!

Welcome back! This week’s episode is all about answering your questions as a former athlete navigating the transition back into working out. Adjusting to life after sports can be challenging, but finding what works for you in the gym should be an exciting and empowering journey. We sat down with gym owner and trainer Chad Hobbs to dive into tips, strategies, and insights to help you rebuild confidence and enjoy your workouts again. Don’t miss it!Shoutout to The Bloomington Athlete Factory at thefactorybn.com for sponsoring this episode and supporting athletes everywhere!

This week, we had an amazing conversation with the head women’s volleyball coach at Illinois State University! She shared how volleyball became a big part of her life, the power of wearing your emotions proudly, and the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone. There were plenty of laughs and so much knowledge shared, check it out!

This week’s podcast guest, Mary Frahm, left me truly inspired. Not only was she a great athlete, but she’s also built a remarkable coaching career by staying true to her values and making a meaningful impact. Her program is helping athletes shape their lives for the better. Mary’s journey is one you don’t want to miss, tune in to hear her story!

This week’s episode is live, and you’re not going to want to miss it! Billy shares his not-so-easy journey with baseball, from multiple surgeries to finding positivity through it all. We also dive into his post-sports journey, career, and how he’s helping athletes build confidence in themselves and in the game. Check it out!

This week’s episode features former Illinois State University swimmer Jordan Peterson! She opens up about her journey through the highs and lows of sports, how she overcame burnout, and the excitement she feels for the next chapter in life after athletics.

Check out our latest episode featuring Megan Harrington, ISU Gymnastics Assistant Coach! She opens up about her journey into coaching, the challenges of transitioning out of sports, and why sometimes stepping back is necessary to rediscover yourself. Don’t miss it!

Tune into this week’s episode as we catch up with former collegiate wrestler Steven Lee! He shares his journey balancing life as a student-athlete while being enlisted in the military, and his experience coaching the next generation right after college.

We sat down with former gymnast Savannah Hooker to explore the challenges of overcoming mental blocks and navigating identity shifts after sports. Savannah opens up about finding a new career, rebuilding confidence, and using the skills she developed as an athlete to thrive in life beyond gymnastics. This episode is all about embracing your journey and turning your athletic experiences into tools for success in whatever comes next!

In our latest episode, Kyonn, a former track athlete, opens up about his sports journey, including the ups and downs of transferring schools and the tough decisions that come with it. He shares how he’s navigating life after sports, staying active, and pursuing his career goals. Tune in to hear more about his journey and the lessons he's learned along the way!

An episode you won’t want to miss! After facing an unimaginable event, Kai was able to shift his perspective and find optimism in what life has to offer beyond sports. His journey is a true inspiration and a reminder that even when life doesn’t go as planned, it might just be opening the door to something even greater.

Meet Bree O’Neal, our amazing nutritionist, and my sister. Having her on the PAS team is such a gift. Bree’s passion for nutrition shines through in how she helps others fuel their bodies with knowledge and confidence, empowering them to feel supported and strong in their journey. In this episode, Bree shares her experience as an athlete, what inspired her to pursue nutrition, and the personalized guidance she offers to help you feel your best. I’m so proud of her work and grateful to have her by my side, both as family and a teammate. Watch now and take the first step toward transforming how you fuel your body and your life!

We’re back, and this time I had the privilege of sitting down with Emma Utterback! She opened up about her journey as an athlete, the lessons learned along the way, and how her spirituality helped guide her through life after sports. Emma's an incredible athlete with even better stories to share. Grab your snacks and get comfy. You won’t want to miss this one!

In this episode, we catch up with gym owner and retired athlete Chad Hobbs! We dive into journaling tips, navigating life after college athletics, and the ups and downs of starting a business. Join us for an honest discussion on building resilience, balancing career shifts, and discovering purpose beyond sports.

Welcome to Purpose After Sports, where athletes find their purpose beyond the game. I’m Mikki O'Neal, a former collegiate basketball player, and like many of you, I once felt lost after my sports career came to an end. But through conversations with fellow athletes and my own journey of self-discovery, Purpose After Sports was born. We’re here to help you transition, reignite your passion, and thrive in this next chapter. In this podcast, you'll hear inspiring stories, real conversations, and valuable insights to guide you in your journey after the final whistle.