I Have Cool Friends

Krista Williams is a motivational speaker and the co-host and co-founder of the Almost 30 podcast, a top-rated lifestyle podcast and media brand. Today's episode is especially poignant and timely as Krista joins the show to tell Sam everything to expect as Sam prepares to turn thirty! Krista shares her personal and professional growth experiences and touches on everything from relationships and family to business and entrepreneurship. They discuss The Saturn Return and explain what it means for those transitioning from their late twenties into their early thirties. Sam gets as vulnerable and raw as she's ever been on this episode, so you won't want to miss this one!

Kelly Roach is a business strategist for six, seven, and eight-figure CEOs and a rapid results expert and highly skilled time-compression coach. She's also a three-time best-selling author with another book on the way. Today, Sam and Kelly talk about Kelly's incredible business journey, going from an entry-level sales rep to building a coaching company with seventeen locations and running a team of over one hundred people. Kelly shares how she helps entrepreneurs go from being the business to building and scaling the business through systems, infrastructure, and teams. They also discuss roadblocks and challenges Kelly has had to overcome throughout the years, why 2021 was particularly trying, and what the future holds for Kelly's upcoming ventures.

Jaclyn Fu is the co-founder and CEO of Pepper, an unapologetic bra company for small-chested women. Pepper's mission is to empower women to feel confident and beautiful with the body they have. Jaclyn launched Pepper in 2017, and since then has quickly grown it into a passionate community of underserved women who boldly refuse to be defined by their size. Today, Sam and Jaclyn talk about her inspirational entrepreneurial journey and her passion for helping women who are struggling with body acceptance. Jaclyn shares the incredible story of how she and her co-founder Lia received full funding only ten hours after launching their Kickstarter campaign. Jaclyn speaks to some of the challenges and obstacles she's tackled throughout her journey, her responsibilities as CEO, and how she remains engaged with Pepper's target audience.

Courtney Spritzer is the co-founder and CEO of Socialfly, the #1 women-owned and operated social media marketing agency in the world. Socialfly helps brands communicate and resonate with women on social media. Throughout Courtney's career, she has developed strategic social media plans for her clients and successfully implemented campaigns for 200+ companies and brands, including Discovery, WeTV, Conair, Girl Scouts, and Slimfast. Courtney is also the co-host of the Entreprenista Podcast, a weekly show featuring the stories of successful female founders and what it's really like to run a business. Today, Sam and Courtney talk about being a multi-entrepreneur or, as Courtney calls it, an Entreprenista. Courtney recalls the decision to leave Corporate America to pursue her passion for helping women in business. They talk about the challenges of entrepreneurship and how to balance running multiple businesses while also taking the necessary time to relax and unwind. Finally, Courtney shares some of the best career advice she's ever received and speaks to her future career ‘Bucket List' goals!

Jen Fraboni is a physical therapist by trade and entrepreneur at heart. She's the creator of the Mobility Method and co-host of the podcast, The Optimal Body, a show that provides the body tips and Physical Therapy (PT) Pearls you need to help you understand your body, relieve your pains and restrictions, and answers to your questions. Today, Sam and Jen talk about Jen's multifaceted career as a physical therapist, content creator, podcaster, brand manager, and entrepreneur. Jen talks about her belief that pain, balance, and pursuing your passion are all an ongoing journey. She opens up about the importance of giving yourself grace and the power of visualization and positive thinking. Finally, Jen debunks common myths about physical therapy and the human body.

Danielle Frank is the host of the Beauty Uncovered Podcast, your down-to-earth guide to all things related to beauty. Danielle is also a spokesperson for Olaplex and she joins the show to share her amazing journey to find happiness, confidence, and success. Today, Sam and Danielle get raw and vulnerable as Danielle opens up about how she overcame an abusive relationship in order to pursue the life she always dreamed about. Danielle talks about learning through failure and finding the courage to actualize her best and most authentic self. Sam and Danielle share their views on beauty and why confidence is a muscle that must be worked out regularly.

Julie Foster is a motivated, globally minded modern marketer and brand expert. She currently serves as the Vice President of Brand Marketing at EA Sports and has, like most great brands, an awe-inspiring story to go along with her success. Today, Julie talks about navigating and kicking butt in male-dominated fields like sports, tech, and entertainment. She speaks to her affinity for brand building, the dos and don'ts of branding, and the importance of pursuing passion with grit and tenacity. Sam and Julie touch on the subject of finding balance in the chaotic life that accompanies such high-profile jobs. However, it's not all about the job for Julie, as she shares her thoughts on the importance of leaving a lasting impact on the people around you.

This week, Sam welcomes Caroline & Jake Danehy, co-founders of Fair Harbor, an apparel company that converts plastic waste from the ocean into functional swimwear. Last year, the brother-sister duo was honored for their work in fashion and sustainability with a spot on the coveted Forbes “30 Under 30” list. The siblings talk about their entrepreneurship journey and how they transformed a passionate hobby into a multi-million-dollar brand in a highly competitive industry. Caroline & Jake discuss the dynamic of working together and how each brings a unique perspective and different strengths to the organization. They touch on the impact that COVID-19 had on their overall strategy and provide some best practices for others looking to launch their own sustainability brand. Finally, Caroline & Jake discuss their three-pronged approach to building a culture centered on family.

In today's episode, Sam is talking to fellow UCLA Bruin, Jen Schroeder. Jen is the founder of Jen Scho Catching and co-founder of The Packaged Deal, the number one softball clinic in the world. A softball player turned instructor, Jen empowers young female athletes to reach their competitive potential, build confidence, and connect to their best selves, on and off the field. Her mission is to develop and support girls as they pursue softball and grow into powerful athletes and women. Jen talks about her decision to leave a ‘safe' career path to pursue her passion through entrepreneurship. They touch on the importance of building confidence and battling self-doubt. Jen talks about her latest project, The Packaged Deal, and why she chose to incorporate her friends and family members in her business. Finally, Jen speaks to how she balances all of her projects with being a new parent and provides advice for those who are looking to start their own entrepreneurial journey.

Fellow UCLA Bruin, Ally Courtnall is a two-sport athlete and National Champion who decided to pursue her dream of modeling upon graduation. After four attempts, she finally landed her dream modeling job as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model. Tenacious and persistent don't even begin to describe it! Ally discusses her journey, her passion for mental health advocacy, and finally landing that dream job…and what comes next.

Serial entrepreneur and former professional skateboarder Mikey Taylor is President and Managing Principal of Commune Capital, a private equity real estate investment firm. He started with the goal of educating the masses on financial literacy. Sam and Mikey talk about his entrepreneurial journey, from launching his own craft beer company to his real estate investment career. Mikey talks about why his propensity for risk-taking as an athlete has translated to success in the business world. They discuss strategies for saving money, investing and the mindset required to become a millionaire and even a billionaire! Finally, Mikey shares his views on finding balance with work, family and friends, and talks about his future goals.

Entrepreneur, progressive social facilitator, and Founder & CEO of Quilt, Ashley Sumner, has an intuitive ability to understand human nuances and to bring different kinds of people together. She transformed this natural talent into a career as a community architect for brands and institutions such as Newhouse, Wanderlust, Breakout, and OneRoof, ultimately laying the foundation for Quilt, a new kind of social wellness space to connect, share, and learn with others through daily conversations. Quilt believes that community is the greatest form of self-care. Sam and Ashley talk about Ashley's burning desire to be in service to people, building community, and the importance of caring. Ashley shares her thoughts on inclusivity and why she chooses to approach conflict with education rather than punishment. Finally, Ashley speculates on the future of Quilt and welcomes and encourages all listeners to join the community and become Quilters!

Ryan Nece is a former NFL player and the co-founder and managing partner at Next Play Capital. He has been a professional athlete, successful entrepreneur, and disciplined investor. He's also a fellow UCLA alumnus - Go Bruins! Today, Sam and Ryan talk about Ryan's career path, what inspired him to launch Next Play Capital, and the value of fostering relationships. Ryan speaks to the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and shares why he chose to become a mentor for so many athletes transitioning into their careers outside of sports.

In today's episode, Sam welcomes former athlete turned fitness trainer, Danyele Wilson. Danyele has a passion for coaching people to become the strongest, most powerful versions of themselves and she recently joined Tone and Sculpt as the app's first US-based trainer. Sam and Danyele talk about practicing confidence, having a positive mindset towards fitness, and the ‘Do It For You' mentality. They reflect back on their lives as athletes and open up about struggles with body image and how they overcame those challenges. Finally, Danyele discusses the importance of being genuine, open, vulnerable and, above all, grateful.

In today's episode, Sam welcomes podcasting powerhouse, entrepreneur, and wellness influencer Angie Lee is the host of The Angie Lee Podcast, a show for the dreamer, the multi-passionate, the ADHD, the go-getter, the side-hustler, the entrepreneur, and the ambitious. Sam and Angie talk about brand building, remaining humble, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. They talk about their Enneagram Test results and how it affects multiple relationships in your life, from personal to professional.

Sam welcomes engineer, entrepreneur, advisor, and coach, Meha Agrawal. Meha is the founder of Silk & Sonder, a subscription-based service centered around wellness, productivity, and authenticity. Today, Sam and Meha talk about what inspired her to launch Silk & Sonder, the importance of physical and mental wellness, and the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. Meha speaks to the aspect of her company that she is most proud of, how she approaches hiring, and the value she places on trying, failing, and trying again.

Sam welcomes mental health advocate, Megan Gallagher. At just 25 years old, Megan has spoken at over seven hundred and fifty universities across the country, given three Ted Talks and appeared in outlets such as OK Magazine and Forbes. She also has a new mental health workbook for teenagers that includes pages filled with journaling sections, tips for creating a healthy classroom from home and how teens can become emotionally aware. Today, Sam and Megan talk about the importance of good mental health, how to curate a positive mindset, and the value of incorporating a daily routine. They discuss Megan's passion for helping others, her struggles with anxiety, and why it is critical to find balance. Finally, Megan provides tips and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to build their own authentic brands.

Sam welcomes founder and CEO of Right Rice, Keith Belling. RightRice is a next generation rice brand that launched in February 2019. Keith is known for his experience as a founder, leader, and entrepreneur of several innovative consumer companies. He is the co-founder and former Chairman and CEO of PopChips, a leading, better-for-you snack food business launched in 2007 and has launched other businesses, including an e-commerce company. In this episode, Sam and Keith talk about Keith's entrepreneurial journey, what it takes to create a successful company, and how to stand out in a saturated industry. They discuss how to maintain a healthy work-life balance and what advice Keith would give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark.

In today's episode, Sam welcomes former Division-1 volleyball player, TED Talk speaker, social media influencer. and mental health advocate, Victoria Garrick. Since delivering her TED Talk in 2017, Victoria has become a leader in the mental health and body image advocacy space. After graduating from the University of Southern California in 2019, Victoria has traveled the country speaking on college campuses, hosting her hit podcast Real Pod, and creating daily content for over one million social media followers who follow her message and authenticity on self-care. In this episode, Sam and Victoria talk about Victoria's journey from D-1 athlete to mental health advocate, the impact social media has had on the way we view ourselves, and strategies for overcoming body image issues and insecurities.

In today's episode, Sam welcomes Matteo Franceschetti and Alexandra Zatarain, co-founders of Eight Sleep, the world's first sleep fitness brand with a mission to fuel human potential through optimal sleep. Eight Sleep leverages thermoregulation, data, and technology to design products to restore individuals to their peak energy every morning. Eight Sleep has raised over $70 million in venture funding and has helped over 30,000 people get sleep fit with its hardware and digital products. Matteo is the co-founder and CEO of Eight Sleep, holds multiple patents in tech and health, and is a member of the Forbes Technology Counsel. Alexandra is the co-founder and VP of Brand and Marketing at Eight Sleep. In 2017, she was named by Forbes to the “30 under 30” list in Consumer Technology. In 2020, she was named by E! as one of the top 100 Female Founders.

In today's episode, Sam welcomes back consultant, speaker, and influencer, Jon Levy. Jon is a behavioral scientist best known for his work in the field of influence, community, and adventure. He specializes in applying research to transform the ways companies approach marketing, sales, consumer engagement, and product development. Today, Sam and Jon talk about the importance of community and connection as it pertains to our physical and mental wellbeing. They discuss the impact our digital world, specifically social media, has had on our sense of community, as well as some of the major reasons people have trouble connecting to one another. Jon talks about the inspiration behind his latest book, You're Invited, and the impact our close circle of friends and family can have on our lives.

In today's episode, Sam welcomes licensed psychotherapist and global relationship and empowerment expert, Terri Cole. For over two decades, Terri has worked with a diverse group of clients that includes everyone from stay-at-home moms to celebrities and Fortune 500 CEOs. She has a gift for making complex psychological concepts accessible and actionable so that clients and students achieve sustainable change. She inspires over 250,000 people weekly through her blog, social media platform, signature courses and her popular podcast, The Terri Cole Show. In this episode, Sam and Terri talk about the importance of understanding and setting boundaries in our work lives, personal lives, social media consumption and relationships. They talk about reflecting and assessing your own side of the street before passing judgment on others. Finally, Terri provides an actionable challenge to Sam and the I Have Cool Friends audience and shares a special giveaway too.

Josh Clemente, founder of Levels, is a mechanical engineer and CrossFit-L2 trainer. At SpaceX, he led a team to develop life support systems that sustained astronauts on their trip to the International Space Station (ISS), the first new crew-carrying spacecraft since 1980. Josh has also spent time designing and building hyperloop technology and leading engineering for a company providing vehicle-based rescue systems for emergency response teams. In this episode, Sam and Josh talk about the health scare that inspired Josh to take a new approach to health, fitness, and nutrition. Josh speaks to the overall mission and goals of his company, Levels, and debunks common myths about nutrition. Finally, Sam and Josh take a deep dive into metabolic health, the importance of getting quality sleep, and the future of nutrition technologies.

In today’s episode, Sam welcomes career coach, author, and keynote speaker, Ashley Stahl. Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, Ashley was an award-winning counterterrorism professional who helped the Pentagon in Washington, DC prepare civilians for the frontlines of the war on terror. She has been named a power 30 Under 30 leader by Apex Society for her work in global threat intelligence. Since then, Ashley has shifted her career to helping women find their purpose and fulfillment in their careers. Sam and Ashley talk about Ashley’s entrepreneurial pursuits, including her role as a career coach and her publishing firm, CAKE Publishing. They debunk common career myths, discuss how to achieve a healthy work-life balance, and taking that leap of faith to pursue your dream career.

Sam welcomes author, speaker, and consultant, Nick Sonnenberg. Nick was the youngest person ever to graduate from Berkley with a master’s degree in financial engineering. Now, he is a serial entrepreneur with expertise in creating companies that disrupt the way people live. Nick is the co-founder of Leverage, founder and CEO of Efficient Frontier Solutions, and co-author of the book, Idea to Execution. His personal mission is to help busy entrepreneurs optimize their lives in a meaningful way and help them go from idea to execution in as few steps as possible. In this episode, Sam and Nick discuss the value of productivity and optimization, the best tech stack out there to help your company scale, and the importance of spending your time working on things you love.

Sam welcomes doctorate in educational leadership for social justice, Dr. William Parham. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Parham has worked with the NBA, MLB, and – at one point – was a psychologist for the LA Lakers. Among Dr. Parham’s many accomplishments includes being named the first ever Director of Mental Health and Wellness for the National Basketball Players Association. In this episode, Sam and Dr. Parham talk about coping with trauma, the impact social media has had on society, and the importance of acknowledging what your authentic self is experiencing.

Sam welcomes speaker, author, and professor of neuroscience, Moran Cerf. Professor Cerf has a Ph.D. in neuroscience, holds multiple patents, and has published over sixty academic papers in highly regarded journals. He is the beneficiary of several awards and grants for his work and was recently named one of the "40 Leading Professors Below 40." Additionally, he’s the co-founder of Think Alike and founder of B-Cube, which applies neuroscience to help society. He’s also been a consultant to many Hollywood films and TV shows, such as Bull, Limitless, Falling Water, and more. In this episode, Sam and Moran talk about his extensive academic research in neuroscience. They touch on topics including brain manipulation, understanding the mechanisms of emotion, decision-making, and dreams. Moran talks about dream research, training your brain to become happier, and his experience consulting with businesses on the psychology of consumers.

Sam welcomes athlete, TV show host, and digital content creator, Rachel Demita. Rachel is a social media influencer who has built an impressive career through digital content creation and collaborating with a variety of brands. In this episode, Sam and Rachel talk about their shared experience as women working in the male-dominated industry of sports broadcasting. Rachel shares her experience with social media, talks about what it means to create engaging and authentic content, and opens up about her dream job.

Sam welcomes speaker, author, and CEO, Allen Gannett. Allen is among the top creative geniuses in our world today. In fact, he is so passionate about the topic of creativity, that he wrote The Creative Curve, a book that argues that the creative process can be learned by anyone. He’s interviewed everyone from billionaires to neuroscientists and developed a four-step process to show how anyone can achieve the creative success they desire. In this episode, Sam and Allen discuss the concept of the "Creative Curve," neuroplasticity, and creative potential.

Sam welcomes entrepreneur, author, and health and wellness expert, Sarah Anne Stewart. Sarah Anne is one of the leaders in transformative wellness as an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She is the founder of the Awesome Inside Out Movement, author of the e-course Meditate Slim, and advisor to international wellness brands. Sarah Anne supports individuals around the world in shifting their relationship with food and their body to create a more positive, loving approach to a life that they love. In this episode, Sam and Sarah Anne talk about cultivating a healthy relationship with food and our bodies, the healing power of meditation, and the importance of self-care, self-confidence, and self-love.

Sam welcomes entrepreneur and fitness expert, Noah Neiman. Noah has had a unique path to entrepreneurship. He started out as an accountant until a family health scare and a revelation acted as a wake-up call. He decided to become a personal trainer and boxing coach and found that he was quickly selling out every class. In 2017, he and four business partners opened the boxing gym, Rumble. What started as one location has quickly spread to thirteen! In this episode, Sam and Noah discuss the many hats Noah wears as a business owner, the importance of pivoting when things don’t go your way, and the intrinsic value of treating others well.

Sam welcomes entrepreneur and founder of the women’s lifestyle brand, 12th Tribe, Demi Marchese. Demi has been featured in Forbes, Business Journal, Spirit 680, Style Collective and WWD MAGIC Panel, among others. She is an extraordinary business owner whose vision and drive have led to overwhelming success. In this episode, Sam and Demi discuss the trials and triumphs of owning a business, the importance of balance, and the inspiration behind her fashion line, 12th Tribe brand.

Sam welcomes entrepreneur, author, and co-founder of the Los Angeles-based investment firm M13, Courtney Reum. A graduate of Columbia University and Harvard Business School, Courtney is no stranger to the world of business. After helping take Under Armour and Vitamin Water public nearly 12 years ago, he started his own ventures with his brother, Carter. Together, they founded the disruptive brand development and venture capital firm, M13. In this episode, Sam and Courtney discuss what it takes to become an entrepreneur, the importance of preparation, and the inspiration behind Courtney’s book, Shortcut Your Startup.

In today’s episode, Sam welcomes fitness entrepreneur, broadcaster, and social media influencer, Katie Austin. Health and exercise were always a part of Katie’s life, growing up in the spotlight with a mother who is an icon in the world of fitness. Today, Katie inspires women everywhere to get fit and live a healthy, yet balanced lifestyle. In this episode, Sam and Katie talk about self-confidence, best practices for balancing a busy life, and the importance of asking for help.

On episode 1, Sam welcomes consultant, speaker, and influencer, Jon Levy. Jon is a behavioral scientist, best known for his work in the field of influence, community, and adventure. He specializes in applying research to transform the ways companies approach marketing, sales, consumer engagement, and product development. In this episode, Sam and Jon discuss the importance of community, how to influence people in your daily life, and why it’s important to live adventurously. We also introduce our new segments - Ask a Friend and I Have Cool Recs! Jon answers questions from listeners, and then recommends things he’s watching, reading, and listening to right now that he thinks will enrich your life.

Welcome to the I Have Cool Friends podcast, a show that sparks inspirational conversations with experts about business, wellness, and personal development. Join host Samantha Peszek as she welcomes back returning listeners and invites a whole new audience to learn from industry leaders, entrepreneurs. and other top professionals. Now more than ever, it is crucial to have a community to believe in, and Sam hopes all listeners can find that here. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from successful people and be able to apply relevant tips to your everyday life.

Sam welcomes to the podcast 2016 NCAA Balance Beam Co-Champion, 6x All-American and 2012 Olympic alternate, Danusia Francis. In this episode, Danusia discusses the unique experience of representing two separate countries in Olympic qualifiers.  Danusia opens up about her training regimen, meeting Olympic legend, Usain Bolt, and balancing life while working to qualify for the next Olympic Games. Finally, Danusia talks about the lessons she has learned throughout her gymnastics career, her views on confidence, and her post-retirement plans. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e12

Sam welcomes to the podcast two very special guests, Olympians Madison Kocian & Kyla Ross. Madison is a 2018 NCAA Team Champion, a 2016 Olympic Gold & Silver Medalist, a 3x World Champion and a 7x All-American. Kyla is a 2018 NCAA Team Champion, a 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist, a 2014 World Championship Gold Medalist, an NCAA record holder with 14 Perfect 10s in 2019, and a 19x All-American. These amazing women are seniors at UCLA where they’ve experienced some of their most memorable gymnastics moments. In this episode, Sam, Madison and Kyla talk about the abrupt cancellation of their gymnastics season due to the global coronavirus pandemic. They reflect on their careers as collegiate gymnasts and recall the peaks and valleys of their gymnastics career, including embarrassing and uplifting moments. Madison and Kyla speak to the importance of their club coaches as well as the special place they hold in their hearts for UCLA. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e11

Sam welcomes to the podcast two-time Olympian and professional volleyball player, Matt Anderson. Matt is currently a member of the Italian club Modena Volley and the United States men’s national volleyball team, with whom he was a participant of the Olympic Games, 2014 World League and 2015 World Cup. In this episode, Sam and Matt discuss Matt’s volleyball origin story, from his days playing for Penn State at the collegiate level to winning bronze at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Matt speaks to his decision to leave college a year early and pursue a professional career playing abroad. Sam and Matt reflect on their shared experience of the Olympic blues and the sheer weight and pressure the Olympics carries with it. Finally, Matt talks about the future of professional volleyball and advice he would give to young and aspiring athletes everywhere. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e10

Sam welcomes to the podcast two-time Olympic swimmer and four-time Olympic medalist, Kaitlin Sandeno. Kaitlin is a world champion, former world record holder and has won a gold, silver and two bronze medals throughout her career. Since retiring, Kaitlin has gone on to lead a successful post-Olympic career as a sports commentator, motivational speaker, coach, philanthropist, author, and GM of a professional international swimming league. In this episode, Sam and Kaitlin talk extensively about Kaitlin’s professional swimming career, from the highs of qualifying and competing in two Olympics to the lows of injuries. They discuss the lessons they both learned from their first experiences at the Olympic Games. Kaitlin tells the story of how she won her most prized medal, the silver, and what it meant to her personally. Finally, Kaitlin talks about her post-Olympic career, including her involvement as a National Spokesperson for NEGU, an organization that’s near and dear to her heart. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e9

Sam welcomes to the podcast 1993 and 1994 world all-around champion, 1996 Olympic balance beam champion, 1995 Pan American Games all-around champion, and member of the gold-medal winning Magnificent Seven team at the 1996 Olympics, Shannon Miller. Shannon is the second most decorated gymnast in U.S history and the thirteenth most decorated gymnast from any country by her individual medal count. She is the only woman in any sport to be inducted into the US Olympic Hall of Fame twice, as an individual and as part of a team. In this episode, Sam and Shannon chronicle Shannon’s Olympic career, from meeting the Dream Team and winning three bronze and two silver medals at the ’92 Games in Barcelona to winning two gold medals at the ’96 Games in Atlanta. Shannon speaks to the incredibly successful post-athletic career she’s had, which includes broadcasting, starting a business, and writing an autobiography. Shannon opens up about her diagnosis and subsequent battle with ovarian cancer. She shares how the lessons she learned as an Olympic athlete helped her through this difficult time in her life. Finally, Shannon talks about the importance of confidence and the valuable role it has played in her life. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e8

Sam welcomes to the podcast Olympic champion and eight-time American record holder in competitive swimming, Cody Miller. Cody is also a self-proclaimed movie buff, puppy enthusiast, food assassin, YouTuber and Water Jedi. In this episode, Sam and Cody chronicle Cody’s journey as an athlete, from overcoming a serious health condition when he was young to winning a gold medal alongside his lifelong idol, Michael Phelps. Cody shares his experiences as an elite Olympic athlete as well as life lessons he’s learned along the way. Among the most important things he’s learned, Cody stresses the importance of taking a moment to self-reflect and appreciate the moment. Finally, Cody shares the golden rule he tries to utilize every day. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e7

Sam welcomes to the podcast decorated professional volleyball player, Karsta Lowe. Karsta won bronze at the 2016 Olympic Games, playing a key reserve role. Coming off the bench, she provided 41 points, highlighted by a 13-point performance versus Serbia in semifinal and 12 points against Italy in pool play. Outside of her Olympic experience, Karsta was a member of the team that took gold at the FIVB World Grand Prix where she was awarded MVP. She currently plays for a professional team in Busto, Italy. In this episode, Sam and Karsta talk about Karsta’s journey as an athlete, from walk-on at UCLA to qualifying and medaling at the Olympics. They discuss her time playing abroad in Italy and overcoming challenges like the language barrier. Karsta shares some of her fondest memories from the Olympic village the emotional experience of representing her country in 2016. Finally, Karsta speaks to her confidence level and the importance she places on aligning her thoughts and her actions to ensure success. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e6

Sam welcomes to the podcast two very special guests, Olympic swimmers and sisters, Alyssa and Haley Anderson. Alyssa became an Olympic gold medalist in 2012, and Haley was one of the first USA athletes who qualified for the upcoming Olympics Games in Tokyo for 2020. This will mark Haley’s third Olympic Games. Haley’s already won an Olympic silver medal in 2012 and was the first American to earn a medal in open water swimming. In this episode, Sam, Alyssa and Haley discuss the culture of USA Swimming, the mindset required to be a successful Olympian, and the power of resiliency. Alyssa and Haley break down the difference between open water and pool swimming competitions as well as how they get pumped up before big races. Finally, Alyssa and Haley talk about Imposter Syndrome and the importance of overcoming your own self-doubts to achieve greatness. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e5

Sam welcomes to the podcast three-time Olympian and four-time Olympic medalist, David Boudia. Perhaps the most impressive of David’s Olympic accolades, he was the first American male diver to win Olympic diving gold in the ten-meter platform competition since Greg Louganis in 1988. David has competed in the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games and plans to compete yet again at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. In this episode, David and Sam discuss fears, obstacles, and other challenges David had to overcome on his Olympic journey. They share some stories from their experiences at the Olympic village. David opens up about how his mindset and attitudes matured throughout his Olympic experience and humbled him to a new level. Finally, David talks about his goals for 2020 and beyond, including his desire to remain in Lafayette, Indiana and pursue a coaching career at Purdue University. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e4

Sam welcomes to the podcast All-Around Champion at the 2004 Olympic Games, Carly Patterson. Carly is truly a trailblazer for the United States as she was the first American woman in twenty years to win the All-Around Olympic Gold medal since Mary Lou Retton in 1984. Since her victory, the U.S. has won every consecutive all-around gold medal. In addition to her gymnastics accolades, Carly is a successful singer/songwriter and motivational speaker. In this episode, Carly discusses her journey to the Olympics and the unique factors that led to her success. Carly shares some stories from her own experiences the Olympics, including how Ashley Simpson got her pumped up before each competition. Sam and Carly open up about their identity struggles post-Olympic Games. Finally, Carly provides her insights on confidence, community, family and what it takes to become an Olympic champion. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e3

Sam welcomes to the podcast two-time Olympic medalist and decorated track and field hurdler, Dawn Harper. Dawn took home the gold medal at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing and won a silver medal at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, making history as a hurdler in the process. In this episode, Dawn recalls her journey to the 2008 Olympics, including stories of her inspiring coach, overcoming a knee injury, and the moment she realized she took home gold. Dawn speaks to her decision to step away from track and field (for now) to start a family and become a mother. She talks about her daughter, Harper, and her husband, Alonzo who has supported her career through all the ups and downs. Finally, Dawn touches on her decision to train and compete to represent the U.S. yet again in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e2

Sam welcomes to the podcast two-time Olympic gold medalist and World Cup Champion, Lauren Cheney. Among her stellar career accomplishments, Lauren was the first player in National Women’s Soccer League history to have her jersey retired by the league. She also set multiple school records at UCLA, including most points, most game-winning goals scored, and tied the school record for most goals scored. In this episode, Lauren talks about her journey to the 2008 and 2012 Olympics and the indescribable feeling of representing the United States. She shares her experience at the 2015 World Cup and recalls the moment she scored the third goal in the Final to help the United States claim back the title. Lauren opens up about her harrowing experience learning that she had a brain tumor while pregnant with her daughter. Finally, Lauren talks about her recovery from brain surgery and provides advice on how to gain and maintain confidence. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s3e1

Sam welcomes to the podcast decorated Olympic gymnast and former member of the University of Minnesota men’s gymnastics team, John Roethlisberger. In addition to being a three-time Olympian, John is a four-time U.S, National all-around champion and a four-time U.S. National pommel horse champion. He also won back-to-back American Cup titles in 2995 and 1996 and was named Sportsperson of the Year six times throughout his illustrious career. In this episode, Sam and John break down the performances of the Four on the Floor: Denver, UCLA, LSU and Oklahoma. They share their thoughts on scoring, individual champions, and the first year of the new postseason format. Finally, Sam and John discuss the retirements of two gymnastics legends, UCLA Head Coach Miss Val and Utah Head Coach Megan Marsden. Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s2e17 Podcast production by FullCast: http://fullcast.co/cf

Sam welcomes to the podcast former University of Michigan gymnast Evan Heiter. Evan was also Sam’s co-host for the USAG Webcast for multiple years and is a huge NCAA gymnastics super fan. In this episode, Sam and Evan break down team performances from Regionals and look ahead to both upcoming Semi-Finals. They identify the secret weapons, keys to victory and storylines to watch for each team. Finally, Sam and Evan give their predictions on which teams they believe will be the Four on the Floor.  Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s2e16 Podcast production by FullCast: http://fullcast.co/cf

Sam welcomes to the podcast Oregon State University women’s gymnastics head coach, Tanya Chaplin. Tanya’s experience in the gymnastics world is quite extensive. As an athlete competing at UCLA, she was a six-time All-American and a two-time PAC-10 Gymnast of the Year winner. She also competed in the 1983 World Championships in Budapest and competed in the 1984 Olympic trials. Over the course of her twenty-two year coaching career, she has earned PAC-12 Conference Coach of the Year five times. In this episode, Tanya discusses her team’s accomplishments this season as they prepare to compete at Nationals. She shares her coaching insights on mindset, motivation and success. Finally, Tanya details how she is planning for the continued success of her gymnastics program.   Full show notes: http://ihavecoolfriends.show/s2e15 Podcast production by FullCast: http://fullcast.co/cf