Best in the World with Richard Parr

Allysa Seely won gold in paratriathlon at the 2016 Paralympic games. In Rio de Janeiro. The American is also a two-time World Champion. Allysa is our guest on this edition of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. On the podcast, the Arizona native talks about having her left leg amputated and who helped her most on her way to World and Paralympic success. Allysa breaks down a typical day in her life and explains the difference between motivation and discipline. The triathlete also reminisces about winning the Turkey trot! You can learn more about Allysa at allysaseely.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Fabian Cancellara has won four Time-Trial World Championships and two Olympic gold medals. The Swiss rider won eight stages in the Tour de France during his career. He has claimed victory in the Paris-Roubaix race three times and is also a triple time winner in the Tour of Flanders. Fabian is our guest on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. On the podcast the man known as Spartacus talks about what he has been up to since retiring from the sport in 2006 after the Rio Olympics. Fabian reveals what a typical day in his life was while competing and his favourite race of his career. To find out more about Fabian’s latest project, head to chasingcancellara.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Tim Brabants is Great Britain’s first Olympic Gold medalist in canoeing. It was at the 2008 Beijing games that the kayaker was victorious in the K1 1000m. Tim is our guest on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. On the podcast he explains how he managed to juggle being an Olympic kayaker and a doctor. The 2007 World Champion has recently joined the performance coaching team for British Canoeing and he explains how the new job is going. Richard discusses with Tim about the importance of data and technology in the sport. You can follow Tim on twitter @timbrabants If you want to continue the conversation on sports performance then join our new Best in the World Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/528892100811980/ See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In 2017 Tim Don broke the Ironman World record at the South American Championship in Brazil. He took four minutes off the previous time. Months later, just days before the World Championships, Tim was hit by a car while he was training on his bike in Hawaii. His neck was broken. On this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast, Tim talks about his remarkable recovery from the crash. Just over six months from the injury Tim is aiming to compete in the Boston Marathon. He also talks about growing up running with Mo Farah, his dad being former Premier League referee Philip Don and his decision to now live in the United States. You can follow Tim on @tri_thedon on Instagram. If you want to continue the conversation on sports performance then join our new Best in the World Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/528892100811980/ See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Gigi Fernandez is a 17x Grand Slam champion in doubles tennis. She won 14 of those titles with Natasha Zvereva and the other three were with Robin White, Martina Navratilova and Jana Novotna. On this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr, Gigi talks about how Jana’s decision to split up their team led her to her ‘invincible’ partnership with Natasha. Gigi also won two Olympic gold medals alongside Mary Joe Fernandez in 1992 and 1996. Along with raising her children, Gigi runs doubles.tv. Identifying the lack of doubles specific tennis coaching, the Puerto Rican created this online platform to help recreational players. By listening to this podcast you’ll get to learn about the Gigi Method and the five most important steps any doubles players need to know to be successful. Gigi is helping raise funds to power Puerto Rico. You can learn about the Viktre Challenge here: https://www.viktrechallenge.com. You can also follow her on instagram @gigifernandeztennis17 See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Tianna Bartoletta is the reigning Olympic Long jump champion. She also has gold medals in the 4x100 metres relay from both the 2012 and 2016 games. The 2-time long jump World Champion is our guest on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. Tianna opens up on the podcast regarding the break up her marriage and the reason why she is most proud of the long jump bronze medal she won last year at the World Championships. The American admits that while it is still difficult to talk about she knows she needs to so she can help others. Tianna talks about her time competing in bobsled and how it helped her regain her confidence in jumping. The Ohio native explains the added expenses she incurs on the road so that she can stay in the best shape possible to compete. Tianna goes further by saying that events can be won in the airport before the competitors even get to the track. Richard and Tianna also talk a lot about her writing and her blog which you can read here: https://teamtb.snappages.site/blog If you want to continue the conversation on sports performance then join our new Best in the World Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/528892100811980/ Plus, if you want to keep listening and learning from World and Olympic Champions then please support the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast on Patreon at https://patreon.com/bestintheworld. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Susan Francia is a 2-time Olympic champion and a 5-time World Champion in rowing. On this episode of the Best in the World, Richard Parr asks Susan if she felt invincible between 2006-12 with all of those achievements? Susan talks about how she got started in the sport and how one coach could recognise her Olympic talent right at the start. The American reveals which NBA star she inspired with her first gold medal in the women’s eight at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Also on the podcast Susan gives her advice to any sports people trying to get sponsorship. Now a coach Susan explains what she knows now and what she looks for when she is identifying new talent. All that and more on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. You can follow Susan on instagram @susanfrancia. We’re continuing our conversation on sports and high performance in our Best in the World Facebook group. Be a part of our community here https://www.facebook.com/groups/528892100811980/ If you want to support our podcast please also check our our Patreon page patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Vincent Hancock is a 2-time Olympic Champion and a 3-time World Champion in the sport of skeet shooting. The American also hold National, Olympic and World Records and is our guest on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. Vincent was just 19 when he won his first Olympic title at the 2008 Beijing games. After struggling with his motivation for the sport in 2011 a year later in London he retained his Olympic title by hitting every target in the final. Vincent explains how he did that on this podcast. The Texas resident also opens up about his relationship with his father, he gives us a technique to get kids interested in shooting and talks about his time in the U.S. Army marksmanship unit. You can follow Vincent’s journey on instagram @vincenthancock. Want to get a free audiobook? Try out audible for 30 days for free at audibletrial.com/best. Do you need new high-profile guests for your podcast, YouTube channel or blog? If so, check out my 7 tips and tools to get high-profile interview guests. https://t.co/lkI3DmIppw See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It’s one of the most iconic images in the history of the Olympic games.Derek Redmond, being helped by his father, hobbling to the finish line with a torn hamstring in the semi-finals of the 400 metres at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Derek recalls that incredible story of grit and determination in this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. One year earlier, Derek and the British relay team had won gold in the 4x400 metres, surprising the American favourites. Derek explains how the late decision to change the order of the line-up played a crucial role in that victory. After athletics, Derek played professional basketball and has also competed at a high level in rugby, motorcycling and kickboxing. Derek reveals the transferable skill from athletics that has helped him be successful in these other sports. You can learn more about Derek at Derekredmond.com. If you’d like to keep our podcast on the air please support us at patreon.com/bestintheworld You can join the Best in the World Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/528892100811980/ See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

STEVEN LOBUE IS THE REIGNING WORLD CHAMPION IN HIGH DIVING.He became the third male ever to win gold at the World Aquatics Championships in Budapest last year. Steve joins Richard on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. The American covers a number of topics including how he got started in the sport, the level of fear needed to dive from a 27 metre high platform and the difficulties of training for competitions. The cliff diver recalls his time working on a cruise ship in the Caribbean. Steve talks in detail about the time he hit his head on the platform during a dive. The American also discusses how his life has changed since he became a father. Steve is on twitter @divelobue You can support the Best in the World with Richard Parr at patreon.com/bestintheworld If you want to download a free audiobook check out Audible audibletrial.com/best See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Casey FitzRandolph is the 500 metres Olympic speed skating gold medallist from the 2002 Salt Lake City games. The American broke the Olympic record in the process. Casey now works in insurance in his home state of Wisconsin helping companies manage risk. On the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast Casey explains whether risk is needed to become a champion in sports. He talks about the difficulty of life after sports and what he used from his athletic career to adjust to his life in business. Casey talks in depth about his relationship with his father. How his dad motivated him to win as a child and how their relationship changed when Casey began to compete at a World level. The American also opens up on why he decided to train with the Canadian team and the lessons he learnt with them. To continue to follow Casey’s journey head to Caseyfitz.com. We discuss even more about high-performance sport in our Best in the World Facebook group. If you want to start listening to audiobooks you can try their service for 30 days for free here: audibletrial.com/best Looking to get more guests for your content? Check out Richard’s 7 tips and tools to get high-profile interview guests. https://t.co/lkI3DmIppw See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Tanja Frieden was in second place in the snowboard cross final at the 2006 Turin Olympics until the leader Lindsey Jacobellis fell in the penultimate jump. Tanja would cross the line first to complete her dream of becoming the Olympic Champion. Tanja tells her story on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. Tanja is now a personal development coach for both sports and business people. One of the methods she teaches is Logosynthesis. Tanja explains what it is, how it helped her win her gold medal and how it can help you. Tanja tells Richard how her life changed when she became Olympic champion, why she had prepared differently for the 2010 Vancouver games and she talks about the injury she sustained that forced her to miss those Olympics. Having represented Norway and Switzerland, Tanja also clears up the inaccuracies on Wikipedia! You can learn more about Tanja at Tanjafrieden.ch You can continue the discussion on sports and high performance in the Best in the World Facebook group. Paul Gerhard is one of our fantastic patrons supporting our podcast. You can do the same at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In 2014, at the age of 32, Stefan Groothuis became the 1000 metres speed skating Olympic Champion.Stefan is our guest this week on the Best in the World with Richard Parr. Stefan opens up about his battle with depression in 2011.He talks about how he managed to get over his mental illness and eventually win Olympic gold. He talks about the injuries he suffered throughout his career including slicing his achilles with his skate. The Dutchman tells us what a World-class speed skater requires from his equipment and his thoughts on the Norwegian skaters wearing blue suits. You can learn more about Stefan at http://wwwStefangroothuis.nl. If you want to continue the conversation on sports performance then join our new Best in the World Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/528892100811980/ Plus, if you want to keep listening and learning from World and Olympic Champions then please support the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast on Patreon at http://www/patreon.com/bestintheworld. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In 2014 after a career filled with injuries Dominique Gisin became Olympic champion.The Swiss won the Downhill Skiing event at the 2014 Sochi games. Dominique reminisces about the dramatic finale that saw her share the top of the podium with Tina Maze. She tells Richard what mental trick she used to change her fortunes.We also learn about her diet, what it’s like to crash at 120 kilometres an hour and who inspires her. Having now retired we hear that Dominique is now studying physics and for her commercial pilots licence. You can learn more about Dominique including her book ‘Making it Happen’ at Dominiquegisin.ch. If you want to continue the conversation on sports performance then join our new Best in the World Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/528892100811980/ Plus, if you want to keep listening and learning from World and Olympic Champions then please support the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast on Patreon at http://www.patreon.com/bestintheworld. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Sonya Looney cycled 234 miles to win the 24-hour Mountain Biking World Champion in 2015. Sonya talks about her journey to becoming the Best in the World on this week’s podcast. As a former sales and marketing manager, Sonya has successfully found sponsors for her mountain biking career. On this podcast she gives her advice for anyone looking to get sponsored. Sonya explains how a plant based diet helped her become World Champion. The American is also really insightful on goal setting, mindset and morning routine. You can learn more about Sonya at sonyalooney.com where you’ll also be able to follow her podcast. Her blog on setting goals can be found here: https://www.sonyalooney.com/2017/09/06/secrets-of-goal-setting/ Also you can join her Plant Powered Tribe Facebook Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/plantpoweredtribe/ You can get Richard’s weekly email filled with sports news and views by signing up at sportuccino.com/email. You can try out audible at audibletrial.com/best. Plus, if you want to keep listening and learning from World and Olympic Champions then please support the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast on Patreon at patreon.com/bestintheworld. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Tori Bowie is the reigning Women’s 100 metres World Champion and our guest for our 100th Best in the World with Richard Parr. On the programme Tori talks about her journey from winning a bronze medal at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing to earning a silver at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics to finally taking gold in London last year. Tori explains how she transitioned from being a long jumper to the best sprinter in the World. The American also has Olympic and World relay golds so Richard asks her which medal she cherishes the most. Tori gives us an insight into her diet, technique and daily routine. She also talks about working with the NBA star Carmelo Anthony for a fashion shoot with Valentino. Tori’s website is toribowie.net and you can follow her journey on Instagram @1toribowie You can get Richard’s weekly email filled with sports news and views by signing up at sportuccino.com/email. You can try out audible at audibletrial.com/best. Plus, if you want to keep listening and learning from World and Olympic Champions then please support the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast on Patreon at patreon.com/bestintheworld. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Casper Steinfath grew up in a small fishing town in Denmark afraid to put his head under water. Now he is a four-time World Champion in Stand Up Paddleboarding. On this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr, Casper explains how he got over his fear of water and gives his advice on how anyone can get over their fear. Casper talks to Richard about the importance of pushing yourself to your limits but also respecting the water. The Danish surfer also discusses goal setting and how he breaks down his goals into incremental steps. In February 2017, Casper attempted to paddle 130 kilometres from Denmark to Norway. The SUP star recounts this incredible story on this week’s podcast. You can watch Casper’s documentary Standing On Water here: https://www.redbull.tv/video/AP-1N5UP66KH2111/standing-on-water If you need something designed please check out 99 Designs at sportuccino.com/99designs. You can get Richard’s weekly email filled with sports news and views by signing up at sportuccino.com/email. Plus, if you want to keep listening and learning from World and Olympic Champions then please support the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast on Patreon at patreon.com/bestintheworld. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Brandon Slay is our first guest of 2018 on the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast. Brandon won gold in freestyle wrestling at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and was part of the USA coaching team for the 2012 and 2016 games. If you have set your goals or made a New Year’s Resolution you will definitely want to listen to this. Brandon explains how he achieved his goal of becoming an Olympic champion and why we should be setting process goals. On the podcast Brandon talks to Richard about being awarded the gold medal having lost the Olympic final. The Wharton Business School graduate explains why it was easier training for the Olympics than it was being a collegiate wrestler. Also on the podcast Brandon gives advice to parents raising young wrestlers. You can continue to follow Brandon’s journey @coachslay. Want to listen back to the best episodes of 2017? Check out the Best of the Best 2017 here: https://sportuccino.com/2017/12/31/best-best-2017/ You can get Richard’s weekly email filled with sports news and views by signing up at sportuccino.com/email. Plus, if you want to keep listening an learning from World and Olympic Champions then please support the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast on Patreon at patreon.com/bestintheworld. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Nobody has played more football matches for their country than Kristine Lilly. The American scored 130 goals in 354 games and won two World Cups and two Olympic gold medals. Kristine is our guest on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. The forward reveals what it was like to make her international debut as a teenager, her favourite teammates and how she managed to have such a long career. Kristine reveals her fondest memories as well as the most painful moment. She also talks about playing in Sweden, coaching and her love of oranges! You can learn more about Kristine at kirstinelilly13.com and on Twitter @kristinelilly See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Thierry Lincou was the World Number One in squash between 2004-05 and is our guest on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. On the programme Thierry talks about growing up and learning to play the sport in Reunion. Thierry discusses the physicality needed for squash, the mental side of the sport and the pressure of being number one. The French player reveals what type of racquet he would use throughout his career. The 2004 World Open Champion is now a squash coach at MIT and talks about what attributes he looks for when recruiting players. You can learn more about Thierry on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ThierryLincou/ If you like this podcast and would like to support our show please head to patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Nobody has won more World Cup titles than Gregor Schlierenzauer and he is our guest on this edition of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. On this podcast Gregor reveals what made him take a break from the sport and his new goals. The Austrian talks about competing in pain at the 2017 World Championships in Lahti. The large hill team Olympic Champion shares details of his diet and explains what goes through his mind before a jump. You can learn more about Gregor on instagram @gregorschlierenzauer and on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gregor.schlierenzauer You can support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

At just the age of 16 Brooke Bennett won the 800 metres freestyle event at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. On this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr, Brooke describes being bullied at school after winning gold. The American reveals the biggest influences on her career and how she coped with competing against more experienced swimmers Brooke shares the changes she made to her training to win two more Olympic gold medals in the 400 and 800 metres in Sydney. With two young sons and her own Academy, Brooke also discusses the importance of children learning to swim. You can learn more about Brooke and her swim academy at bbswimacademy.com Please support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Hayley Wickenheiser is a four-time Olympic Champion in ice hockey. On this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr, Hayley talks about retiring from the sport at the start of 2017. The Canadian discusses her plans to go to medical school, her businesses and her position on the International Olympic Committee’s Athletes Commission. The seven time World Champion reveals the greatest moments of her career, which players she was closest to and what it was like playing in Europe. Hayley also talks about representing Canada in softball at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. You can learn more about Hayley at hayleywickenheiser.com and @wick_22 on Twitter. You can support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“I started living a career through the journey as opposed to the result”. After winning gold in the parallel giant slalom at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, Jasey-Jay Anderson changed his perspective. On this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr, Jasey-Jay admits he now sacrifices results for information to help him improve the snowboards he produces for his company. The Canadian has appeared in five Olympics and discusses the highs and lows of his career with Richard. In this fun interview, Jasey-Jay chats about how a clown helped him learn to ski, what his mother said to him before the 2010 games and explains the story behind his lucky socks! You can learn more about Jasey-Jay and his snowboards on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Jasey-Jay-Snowboards-155219767856056/ If you enjoy our podcasts and would like to support our show please head to patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week on the Best in the World with Richard Parr the Olympic curling champion Brad Jacobs joins us. Alongside Ryan Fry and his cousins, Ryan and E.J. Harnden, Brad led Canada to a gold medal at the 2014 Sochi games. On this podcast, Brad tells Richard what it’s like competing with his cousins. The skip talks about the level of competition in Canada and the pressure of performing for the country at a Winter Olympics. Brad also reveals his fitness regime, diet and pre-game routine. You can learn more about Brad and his team at teamjacobs.com. Please support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“I couldn’t be me anymore”. After winning gold in the parallel giant slalom at the 2014 Sochi Olympics, Patrizia Kummer decided to take a long break in Hawaii. On this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr the snowboarder reveals the difficulty she had in adjusting to be an Olympic Champion once the games were over. Richard and Patrizia talk about her work with a mental coach and her studies in sports psychology. They also chat about Patrizia’s mission statement: "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." (Neale Donald Walsh). Plus Patrizia explains why she never gets nervous. You can follow Patrizia’s journey on Instagram @patriziakummer or on Facebook facebok.com/kummerpatrizia Please support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In January 2016 Laura Massaro became the World Number One in squash. This week on the Best in the World with Richard Parr, Laura talks about her journey to becoming number one, the moment it happened and how she coped with the pressure of being the best. The English player also discusses competing in an era where Nicol David was the World Number One for nine years. She also gives her thoughts on why Egypt is now a dominant force in the sport. The 2013 World Open winner also talks about the importance of having the support of sponsors. You can follow Laura on Twitter @ljmassaro and LIKE her page on Facebook facebook.com/LauraMassarosquash. If you like this or any of our previous podcasts and would like to support us then please head to patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Kim St-Pierre is a three-time Olympic Champion and five-time World Ice Hockey Champion. Kim is our guest on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr. The Canadian reveals what it was like to face the United States on their home soil in the 2002 final in Salt Lake City. The goalie reveals her disappointment on not starting the 2006 final and also describes what it was like to compete in a home Olympics in Vancouver in 2010. On this episode you will find out about the turning point in Kim’s career, her keys to success and what she is up to since retiring. You can learn more about Kim on her website kimstpierre.com. If you would like to keep our podcast going then please help us at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“I was showing up to tournaments. Beat, home, depressed. Go to the next tournament. Beat, home… it was just horrible.” In 2006 Graeme Dott won the World Snooker Championship for the first time. Following that success Graeme suffered with depression and he opens up about it on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr. Graeme also talks about his two other final appearances at the crucible in 2004 and 2010. Graeme discusses the mental exhaustion involved in the sport, how he broke his wrist playing football in China and his thoughts on World Snooker today. The Rangers fan also shares his experience of parading the World title at Ibrox. Please support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“I’ve always loved playing team events”. Representing England, Jenny Duncalf won the World Team Championships in 2006 and is this week’s guest on the Best in the World with Richard Parr. The Liverpool FC fan reveals how a Football Association ruling led her to take up squash. Jenny talks about what she learned growing up around squash players. Jenny discusses her relationship with fellow squash player Rachel Grinham. The former World Number Two also talks about starting to commentate and announce at squash events. You can learn more about Jenny on Twitter at @jennyduncalf and on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Jenny-Duncalf-320894262021. Please support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

UFC fighter and former Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Champion Antonio Carlos Junior is this week’s guest on the Best in the World with Richard Parr. In this revealing interview, Antonio talks about how panic attacks following the death of his close friend led him to meditation. The winner of Ultimate Fighter Brazil 3 discusses the transferable skills between different martial arts and his need to improve his wrestling. The Brazilian talks about learning Jiu-Jitsu with Junior dos Santos, learning to speak English and his favourite shows on Netflix. You can follow Antonio on Twitter and Instagram @caradesapatojr. Please support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“It means more when you become an Olympic Champion at the end of a career”. At the 2014 Sochi Olympics, at the age of 34, Mario Matt became the oldest person to win an alpine skiing gold medal in the men’s slalom. Mario has since retired and talks about running his own apres-ski bar the Krazy Kanguruh in St.Anton and breeding horses. The two-time World Champion is this week’s guest on the Best in the World with Richard Parr. The Austrian discusses the difficulties of traveling for a skier. He also talks about his diet, his family and competing in front of his own fans. You can learn more about mariomatt.com. Please support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Bas Rutten is a former UFC Heavyweight Champion and this week’s guest on the Best in the World with Richard Parr. The Dutch fighter reveals what he did differently, after losing to Ken Shamrock, to go 22 fights unbeaten. Bas discusses his friendships with former rival Frank Shamrock and his podcast co-host Mauro Ranallo The UFC Hall of Famer talks about time management, acting and his bucket list. The MMA star also explains how his O2 trainer cured him from asthma. You can learn more about Bas at facebook.com/basrutten and on Twitter @basruttenmma Please support our podcast at patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Did you know the night before Julia Mancuso won Gold at the 2006 Olympics she ate Pop Tarts and slept in a RV? The Olympic Giant Slalom Champion shares her story on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr. Julia Mancuso is now attempting to compete in the Olympics for a record fifth time. She gives Richard an update on her progress following a second hip surgery. Julia suffers from hip dysplasia and talks about coping with this on the podcast. Julia gives an amazing insight into the mental side of sports and having a positive attitude. The American also talks about efficient training, journaling and neurokinetic pilates. You can learn more about Julia at @juliamancuso on Twitter and Instagram. If you want to support our podcast please head to patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“There was no chance for redemption.” On this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr, U.S. softball pitcher Cat Osterman opens up about her disappointment at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Cat won silver at those games but with the sport removed for the next two Olympics, she was not given the chance to get another gold. The four-time All-American was already an Olympic Champion at the 2004 Athens Olympics. We talk about her being the youngest member of that team, how psychology has helped he as a pitcher as well as nutrition on this podcast. Cat is now an assistant coach at the Texas State University. She discusses the transition from player to coach. You can follow Cat on Twitter and Instagram @catosterman as well as on Facebook: facebook.com/catosterman If you want to support our podcast please head to patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Dan Severn is a former UFC Superfight Champion. Also a WWE Superstar in the 1990s. He is a UFC Hall of Famer. Dan is this week’s guest on the Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast. The American explains to us his interpretation of what the ring name ‘The Beast’ means to him. He talks about the differences between cage fighting and mixed martial arts today. He also discusses what is different between MMA and professional wrestling. This is one of the longest conversations we have had on the podcast but we barely scratch the surface with Dan. You can learn more about him at dansevern.com. If you want to support our podcast please head to patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week we learn from Jorrit Bergsma, the 10,000 metres speed skating Olympic Champion. Following our interview with Jan Blokhuijsen in episode 75, Jorrit gives his side of the story on why he withdrew as the Dutch substitute for the Team Pursuit at the 2014 Olympics. The three-time World Champion shares stories of his childhood, growing up on a houseboat in Friesland, in the north of the Netherlands. Bergsma reveals how close he came to representing Kazakhstan at the 2010 Olympics. He also talks about being married to a fellow speed skater, the four-time World Champion Heather Richardson-Bergsma. You can continue to follow Jorrit’s journey on instagram and twitter @jorritbergsma If you want to support our podcast please head to patreon.com/bestintheworld See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“My life changed pretty much a minute after I won this gold medal”. 2016 Olympic Canoe Slalom Champion Denis Gargaud joins us on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr. As well as being a canoe slalomist Denis is also an entrepreneur. On this podcast he talks about his Mulebar energy bar brand – mulebar.com. In particular, he explains how his knowledge as a sports star helps his business and how he manages his time. The 2011 World Champion opens up about his disappointment of not competing at the 2012 London Olympics. Denis also explains why former France and Manchester United forward Eric Cantona is one of his idols. You can learn more about Denis on Twitter @DENISGARGAUD. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

What’s the difference between being good and very good at Darts? 3-time World Champion John Lowe tells us on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr. John talks about becoming the first player to achieve a nine-dart finish on television back in 1984. You can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3M4p1LFcxSk John opens up about his rivalry and friendship with Eric Bristow, his nickaname Old Stoneface and his role in forming the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). The British darts player also shares how he began playing the sport at the age of 21. John even talks about being fed snake by fellow Darts player Paul Lim! You can learn more about John Lowe at John-lowe.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

By making incremental changes, Ben Hunt-Davis and the British men’s eight rowing team managed to make huge differences in their performance. This led to them becoming Olympic Champions at the 2000 Sydney games. Using this experience, Ben is now a performance consultant for his company Will it Make the Boat Go Faster and he joins us on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast. Ben shares the entertaining story of the morning before he won gold, why friendships are not critical in rowing and whether he was close to quitting the sport. You can learn more about Ben at willitmaketheboatgofaster.com and on Twitter @OlympianBen. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“On the ice it’s a battle.” Jan Blokhuijsen was part of the Netherlands team that won the men’s speed skating team pursuit event at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. On this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr, Jan is asked about the difficulty of racing on a team with his rivals. He talks about his relationship with 3x Olympic Champion Sven Kramer. Plus he gives his side of the story on Jorrit Bergsma withdrawing as a substitute from the gold winning team. Also on the podcast the Dutch skater explains his training routine and talks about reaching a ‘state of flow’. You will also find out how Jan met his model fiancée using social media. You can follow Jan on Instagram at jan_blokhuijsen See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Want to know how mathematics and science can help you to succeed at swimming? Olympic champion Misty Hyman tells us about her winning formula on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr pocast. The innovative American shocked the World when she took gold at the 2000 Sydney games in the 200 metres butterfly event. Recently working as an assistant coach for Arizona State University, Misty talks to Richard about working with Michael Phelps’ coach Bob Bowman. The former World Record holder is fascinating on the mental side of sports in this programme. Particularly on reaching the optimal state of mind and getting in the zone. Diet, recovery and travel are also all included in the conversation. You can continue to follow Misty’s journey at mistyhyman.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Natasha Watley was part of the United States softball team that won gold at the 2004 Athens Olympics. On this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr, Natasha talks about the difficulty of retiring and even hints at a comeback. The American is coaching in Japan and discusses the differences in culture, language, food and playing style. With softball retuning to the Tokyo Olympics, Natasha reveals her disappointment of not being able to compete at the 2012 and 2016 games. The Natasha Watley Foundation is also discussed on the show and you can find out more about it at http://natashawatley.com. Natasha is also on Instagram and Twitter at @natashawatley29. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Freestyle skiing Olympic Champion Jonny Moseley joins us on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr. Jonny took gold in the moguls event in the Nagano games in 1998. He missed out on a medal in the 2002 games in Salt Lake City where he performed the Dinner Roll trick. We talk about Jonny being an innovator in the sport on this week’s programme. Jonny is now launching his own snack food line called Mighty Iota (mightyiota.com). On the podcast he tells us how being an Olympic champion helps him in his new business. Richard also talks to Jonny about fear, marketing and if he ever officially retired. The former Saturday Night Live host now has his own web series called Jonny Moseley’s Wildest Dreams. You can watch the slackline episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMR4E991gpg Jonny is also on Twitter and Instagram @jonnymoseley and you can find more about him at jonnymoseley.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Phillip Dutton is a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist in team eventing. The equestrian rider won at the 1996 and 2000 games. Last year at Rio he got his first individual medal, earning bronze. Phillip is our guest on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr. Phillip explains to Richard why he went from representing Australia to the United States. He talks about putting together a winning team, coping with nerves and how nutrition for horses has changed. He also discusses his relationship with his different horses. You can find out more about Phillip and his farms at phillipdutton.com. Richard also talks about 99 designs on the programme. You can check the out here: http://ninetyninedesigns.7eer.net/c/347631/185967/3172 See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In 2002 Jochem Uytdehaage broke World Records in the 5km and 10km speed skating events to win two gold medals. This week he is our guest on the Best in the World with Richard Parr. The Dutch skater talks about the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual sides of being an Olympic champion. The 2x World Champion explains to Richard his thoughts on having a balanced life. Jochem discusses the successes and failures throughout his career, in particular what went wrong after his victories at Salt Lake City in 2002. You can learn more about Jochem on his website www.deuytdhaaging.nl. He’s also on Twitter and Instagram with the same handle @uytdehaage. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Our first cross-country skiers on the Best in the World with Richard Parr is considered one of the greatest of all time. Charlotte Kalla won gold in the 10km freestyle event at the 2010 Vancouver games and in the 4 x 5km relay at the 2014 Sochi games. The Swedish skier talks about choosing to train by herself rather than with the rest of the national team. Charlotte discusses her training, rest and recovery routines on the programme. The 2 x World Champion also explains why February 15 is an important day in her life, how she copes with stress and what it’s like to have an airport named after her. She also talks about her preparations for the 2018 Winter Olympics. You can follow Charlotte on instagram @kalla_87. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Theresa Zabell won Sailing gold in the 470 class at both the 1992 and 1996 Olympics. Theresa is our guest on this episode of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. The 5-time World Champion now runs Fundacion Ecomar, which teaches children about sailing and the environment. She has also worked in the European Parliament. We talk about this on the podcast. The Spaniard discusses her disappointment of not being selected for the 1988 Olympics in Seoul. Richard asks what it was like for Theresa to compete in front of her home fans in Barcelona in 1992. Plus Theresa talks about raising sponsorship for her sailing team. You can find more about Fundacion Ecomar at fundacionecomar.org and Theresa at tzabell.org. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

2016 Pole Vault Olympic Champion Katerina Stefanidi joins us on this edition of the Best in the World with Richard Parr. Katerina talks about her husband being her coach, what they changed ahead of winning Olympic gold and her confidence ahead of this year’s World Championships. The Greek athlete admits that she is scared of heights, talks about flipping houses and studying at Stanford. Katerina also tells Richard about growing up in an athletic family, changes she has made to her diet and the experience of the Athens Olympics. You can continue to follow Katerina’s journey on instagram @ivault_kat on Twitter @KatStefanidi See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Kelly Clark won gold in the halfpipe at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. The snowboarder explains on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr why she is just as proud of her two bronze medals (2010 and 2014 Winter Olympics) as she is of her gold. Also on the programme Kelly talks about singing before competing, her recovery routine and travelling. The American tells Richard about how she copes with injuries and how her preparations are going for the 2018 Winter Olympics. The Kelly Clark Foundation provides youth with the resources and opportunities to achieve their highest potential through snowboarding. You can learn more about the foundation at www.kellyclarkfoundation.org. You can follow Kelly on twitter @Kellyclarkfdn ‏ See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

With her last throw in the competition Michelle Carter became the Olympic Shot Put Champion in Rio de Janeiro last year. Michelle relives that moment on this week’s Best in the World with Richard Parr podcast. Confidence becomes the keyword of her conversation with Richard. Michelle discusses her ‘You Throw Girl Sports Confidence Camp’. The American talks about coping with hypothyroidism and how make-up keeps her confident. We also learn about Michelle’s family including her rivalry with her sister and her relationship with her dad. Her father, Michael Carter, is her coach and a former Olympic silver medalist in shot put as well as a three-time NFL Super Bowl winner. If you would like to learn even more about Michelle head to shotdiva.com and you can follow her on twitter @shotdiva. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.