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How do the greatest champions achieve success? How do they stay motivated despite setbacks, injuries, and near misses?
It’s all about playing the long game and being ready when that moment arises. In the words of today’s guest, “Be patient, little lion—you’ll roar.”
This week, I am joined by Kara Goucher, a remarkable athlete and two-time Olympian celebrated for her track and marathon achievements.
She offers a firsthand perspective on the pressures and ethical adversities entwined with her time at the Nike Oregon Project. From the gradual recognition of compromised values to the intricate balance of loyalty and personal integrity, her narrative is both consuming and profoundly significant.
Kara excelled at CU-Boulder, winning three NCAA championships before graduating in 2001. She had a successful professional running career, competing in the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympics, achieving top-10 finishes in both marathons. Kara earned a silver medal in the 10,000m at the 2007 World Track and Field Championships and podium finishes at the New York City and Boston Marathons.
Currently, she serves as a track and field analyst for NBC Sports. In her transformative New York Times bestseller, The Longest Race, Kara details a raw and transparent account of the abuse, doping, and deception, encapsulating the omertà of the sportswear titan.
She adeptly navigates doping rumors, deception, and the challenges of being a whistleblower, showcasing her remarkable mental dexterity amidst turmoil.
“We have intuition for a reason. Trust yourself. You have that ability to know what’s right or wrong.”
– KARA GOUCHER
Today’s conversation delves into her career challenges, including injuries and complex experiences with the Nike Oregon Project. Kara opens up about the pressures of weight management and the ethical dilemmas she faced regarding doping practices. She also discusses the emotional impact of assaults by her coach and the struggle to speak out.
Additionally, Kara reflects on the mistreatment of pregnant athletes by sponsors like Nike, her identity beyond athletics, the importance of advocating for clean sport and athlete welfare, and more.
For those who prefer a visual experience, the conversation is available on YouTube. As always, the audio version streams wild and free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Final Note: This conversation contains discussions about sexual assault, which may be triggering or distressing for some listeners. To seek help or additional guidance, please contact the U.S. Center for Safesport.
This is a powerful discussion. I’m thankful for Kara’s openness and honesty in sharing her story. It takes great courage and confidence to speak candidly, and her willingness to do so has undoubtedly made a significant impact.
I hope you appreciate this inspiring exchange as much as I did.
Peace + Plants,
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- Connect With Kara: Website | Instagram | X
- Book: The Longest Race
- Podcast: Nobody Asked Us With Des & Kara
- The New York Times: In Her New Book, Kara Goucher Keeps Running Accountable
- Business Insider: A former Nike runner says the company stopped paying her while she was pregnant and portrayed her as ‘Miss America in a crop top’
- Washington Post: Olympic Runner Kara Goucher’s Lessons On Resilience
- Outside: Kara Goucher on Owning Her Own Story
- People: Olympic Runner Kara Goucher on Sex Abuse Allegations Against Coach: ‘I Want My Voice to Be Heard’
- Runner’s World: Kara Goucher’s Book Offers Rare Insight Into Elite Athlete Contracts
- Runner’s World: Kara Goucher Says Her Allegations Led to Alberto Salazar’s Lifetime Ban
- Runner’s World: Runner’s Dystonia: A Mysterious Malady That Causes Mind and Muscle to Lose Touch
- OISELLE: Don’t F*ck with Kara Goucher
- WWD: Elite Runner Kara Goucher Really Wants Matt Damon to Read Her Book
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