Episode 8 | To The Mountaintop with Gail Devers

In this episode of the "To the Mountaintop" podcast, host Drew Schlosberg and two graduating seniors from Sweetwater High School, Alexis and Aliyah Wheat interview Gail Devers, a five-time Olympian and San Diego native. Gail shares her journey from reluctant runner to Olympic champion, emphasizing perseverance and the importance of setting goals. She recounts her famous fall at the 1992 Olympics and how it fueled her career.  Alexis and Aliyah discuss their plans to attend Mesa College and their aspirations in nursing and criminal law, respectively. The conversation highlights the value of empathy, resilience, and the impact of role models in shaping their lives.

Gail Devers' Early Life and Track Career

• Gail shares her initial reluctance to run, influenced by her brother who made her start cross-country running.
• She recounts her first day of practice, describing it as painful but ultimately rewarding.
• Gail discusses her track career, including her participation in various events like the 800 meters, 400 meters, hurdles, long jump, and triple jump.
• She emphasizes the importance of setting goals and finding joy in her sport, even on challenging days.

Handling Negative Days and Personal Challenges

• Gail discusses how she handles negative days and the importance of not giving up.
• Gail talks about her experience with Graves disease and how it taught her to be resilient and find motivation in small successes.
• She shares her method of writing goals on sticky notes and committing to them as a way to stay focused and motivated.
• Gail highlights the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and seeing the finish line, even on difficult days.

Growing Up in San Diego and High School Memories

• Gail reminisces about her childhood in San Diego, attending different elementary schools and moving to National City in sixth grade.
• She recalls her high school experiences, including running cross-country, playing in the streets, and forming lifelong friendships.
• Gail shares a memorable moment from her high school track career, where she tied with a top cross-country runner in her senior year.
• She reflects on the lasting impact of her high school relationships and the pride she feels in having her name on the Sweetwater High School scoreboard.

Service and Passion for Helping Others

• Gail shares her passion for service and helping others.
• Gail explains that her life is about serving others and extending kindness, inspired by her role models and life experiences.
• She discusses the importance of education and awareness in alleviating suffering and making a positive impact.
• Alexis and Aliyah share their own passion for helping others and maintaining a positive attitude, influenced by their family and personal experiences.

Challenges and Triumphs in Track and Field

• Gail talks about her favorite track event and the most memorable race of her career.
• Gail describes her experience with the "Gail Devers famous fall" at the 1992 Olympics, where she hit the last hurdle but didn't give up.
• She explains how that race led her to redefine her goals and continue her career, ultimately winning two back-to-back gold medals in the 100 meters.
• Gail emphasizes the importance of perseverance and maintaining a positive mindset through challenges.

Role Models and Inspirations

• Gail is asked about her high school heroes and role models.
• Gail credits her parents, teachers, and coaches for their support and encouragement during her high school years.
• She shares how these individuals believed in her potential and helped shape her into the person she is today.
• Aliyah and Alexis discuss their own role models, including their family members and coaches, who have inspired them to pursue their goals.

Empathy and Leadership

• Gail shares her views about the importance of empathy in leadership.
• Gail explains the difference between sympathy and empathy, emphasizing the need to understand and support others.
• She shares her belief in the power of empathy to improve social skills and create a better world.
• Gail encourages listeners to be true to themselves, believe in their abilities, and help others along their paths.

Final Thoughts and Advice

• Alexis and Aliyah share their key takeaways from the conversation with Gail, emphasizing perseverance and finding joy in their endeavors.
• Gail offers final advice, encouraging listeners to have fun, be good people, and believe in themselves.
• She highlights the importance of setting goals, maintaining a positive attitude, and helping others achieve their dreams.

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