Aaron Peirsol - one of the greatest backstroke swimmers in history - is a 5 x Olympic Gold medallist and 3 x Olympian. He broke the world record in the 100m and 200m backstroke a combined 13 times, and still holds the world record in the 200m backstroke (which he set in 2009 in a time of 1:51.92). Across major international competitions he has 36 medals, 29 of which are gold.
After an incredible 11 years international career, Aaron's decision to retire from competitive swimming in 2011 came from him knowing he had achieved all he wanted to in the pool.
He then found himself in an interesting space.
Unsure of exactly what to do next in life, he came face to face with some of his own inner demons, needing to find a way through. This episode is a fascinating look at Aaron's journey beyond the pool, how he turned to literature and writing as a way to find wisdom and guidance to help him create a new path, and how his love of water is the ultimate golden thread through his life. His philosophical nature, and deep reflection about himself and life, leads to valuable insights for all of us.
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