Olympic gold medalist Jordyn Wieber Brooks knows the immense pressure of elite gymnastics—where fear-based coaching, emotional suppression, and relentless expectations shape young athletes. In this episode, she opens up about the resilience it took to unlearn those survival tactics and how retiring at just 18 forced her to redefine her identity beyond competition. Now the head coach at the University of Arkansas, Jordyn is reshaping gymnastics culture, creating a healthier environment where athletes can thrive without sacrificing their well-being. She shares her journey of healing from body image struggles, finding purpose in coaching, and preparing for motherhood. Jordyn also reflects on her experience on Special Forces, where she reached her mental and physical limits and made the powerful decision to step away for her mental health—proving that true strength lies in self-awareness, boundaries, and rewriting the rules for the next generation.
(00:00:00) Introductions
(00:03:34) Redefining Success in Sports: Building Resilience & Healthy Mindsets
(00:13:05) Jordyn’s Olympic Journey & Navigating Life After Retirement
(00:25:08) Healing Her Relationship with Food & Preparing for Motherhood
Click here for full show notes
Guest Info:
• Instagram: @jordyn_wieber
Resources:
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“The Big Silence” theme song written and performed by James Nicholas Kinney.
Producer, Bobby Goldstein.
The Big Silence is produced by Crate Media.
Mentioned in this episode:
Ketone IQ | Visit ketone.com/TBS for 30% off your first subscription!
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