Countdown to Cortina

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Seve De Campo shares his journey as a cross-country skier, from his early days in Melbourne to his experiences as an Olympian. The discussion covers the importance of mental preparation, the significance of personal branding for athletes, and the role of social media in building a community. Seve also reflects on the lessons learned from his Olympic journey and offers advice for managing pre-race jitters. The conversation highlights the fun and camaraderie in the sport, as well as the challenges faced by athletes in their pursuit of excellence.TakeawaysSeve is preparing for his first race in Ruka.The importance of mental preparation before races.Cross-country skiing has a strong community in Australia.Seve's journey from Melbourne to the Olympics.The significance of personal branding for athletes.Live streaming can enhance athlete engagement.The King of Trondheim promotes fun in skiing.Social media can be a powerful tool for athletes.Enjoying the journey is as important as the destination.Building a personal brand takes time and authenticity.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Chit-Chat04:51 Seve's Journey in Cross-Country Skiing19:35 The Transition to Europe and Professionalism34:18 Individualized Training and Future Aspirations23:45 The Role of AI in Coaching and Training28:19 First World Cup Experience: Overcoming Challenges31:17 Qualifying for the Olympics: The Journey to Beijing35:57 Experiencing the Olympics: Highlights from Beijing38:56 Looking Ahead: Anticipation for Milano Cortina40:26 Social Media Mastery: Building a Personal Brand47:28 Building Connections in Sports50:13 The Importance of Personal Branding53:18 Innovative Approaches to Athlete Branding59:10 The Journey of an Olympian01:08:53 Embracing the Olympic Experience

SummaryIn this episode, Matt C Smith interviews Markus Hoiberg, a three-time Olympian in curling, exploring the intricacies of the sport, its evolution, and the unique experiences of competing at the Olympics. They discuss the importance of teamwork, mental preparation, and the physical demands of curling, as well as the impact of recent scandals on the sport's equipment standards. Markus shares insights from his Olympic journey, offering advice for first-time Olympians and highlighting the dominance of curling nations like Canada.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Curling and the Podcast01:58 Markus's Journey into Curling03:10 The Evolution of Curling: From Outdoors to Indoors05:40 Understanding the Game of Curling10:20 The Role of Sweeping in Curling11:55 The Broomgate Scandal and Its Impact16:40 The Athletic Side of Curling22:21 Mental Training and Team Dynamics26:25 Training Regimens for Curlers28:31 The Evolution of Curling and Its Dominant Nations30:52 Experiencing the Olympics: First Impressions and Lessons Learned34:45 Roles and Responsibilities: From Alternate to Competitor40:00 Advice for First-Time Olympians: Embracing the Experience41:58 The Fun Side of Curling: Culture and Community42:53 The Intricacies of Curling: Surprising Facts and InsightsTakeawaysCurling has evolved from outdoor to indoor play due to weather conditions.The sport of curling involves strategy, teamwork, and physical fitness.Sweeping plays a crucial role in controlling the rock's path.The Broomgate scandal highlighted the importance of standardized equipment in curling.Mental preparation is as important as physical training for curlers.Curling requires a high level of fitness, especially for sweepers.The Olympic experience is unique and varies from first to third participation.Canada is the dominant nation in curling, with a rich history in the sport.Team dynamics and communication are vital for success in curling.The Mixed Doubles format offers a faster-paced alternative to traditional curling.

Zak Ketterson shares his journey as a cross-country skier, discussing his upbringing in Minnesota, the impact of the NCAA system on his career, and the importance of building a personal brand as an athlete. He emphasizes the role of social media and content creation in connecting with fans and sponsors, and reflects on his aspirations for the upcoming Olympics. Zak also highlights the significance of authenticity in his content and the challenges and rewards of being a professional athlete.takeawaysZak Ketterson emphasizes the importance of seeing athletes as multifaceted individuals.The NCAA system provides a sustainable path for athletes to balance education and sports.Building a personal brand is crucial for athletes to thrive financially.Social media platforms like YouTube and newsletters are effective tools for athlete engagement.Authenticity in content creation helps athletes connect with their audience.The journey of a professional athlete involves both challenges and opportunities.Minnesota has a strong cross-country skiing culture that supports young athletes.The importance of community support in an athlete's journey is paramount.Zak's experience shows that setbacks can lead to new opportunities for growth.The Olympic experience is about more than just competition; it's about the memories made.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Zak Ketterson02:03 The Journey of a Cross-Country Skier06:10 Growing Up in Minnesota: A Cross-Country Skiing Culture10:53 The NCAA System and Its Impact on Skiing16:08 Building a Personal Brand as an Athlete21:54 The Role of Social Media in Skiing27:41 Content Creation: YouTube and Newsletters33:47 The Importance of Authenticity in Content39:37 The Future of Zak Ketterson: Olympic Aspirations54:36 Reflections on the Olympic Experience

Scott Meenagh is a former solder turned Paralympian. In this episode we get a master class in resilience from his journey into parasports, to his fight to keep his sport funded and represented. TakeawaysThe journey to success is often filled with adversity.Finding purpose in sport can lead to personal growth.The transition to a new sport can be challenging but rewarding.Military training can influence athletic mindset positively.Community support is crucial for athletes' success.The cost of elite sport often affects family and friends.Finding balance in life is essential for long-term success.Selflessness can enhance team dynamics and performance.Enjoying the journey is as important as the end goal.Preparation for major events requires mental and physical readiness.Chapters00:00 The Path to Paralympic Sports02:56 The Role of Sport in Rehabilitation05:59 The Invictus Games Experience08:37 Transitioning to Nordic Skiing11:37 Military Mindset vs. Athletic Mindset14:50 The Cost of Elite Performance17:52 Balancing Life and Sport20:57 The Importance of Enjoying the Journey23:56 Parenting and Athletic Identity26:46 Training with Purpose and Fun38:38 Training Identity and Unique Approaches44:59 Fearlessness and the Secret Sauce52:15 The Journey to Nordic Skiing59:33 Overcoming Challenges and Funding Issues01:03:24 Looking Forward to Milan 2026

In this engaging conversation, Matt and Boris Stanish explore Boris's journey as an aspiring biathlete aiming for the Olympics through his Project 509 initiative. They discuss the importance of social media in documenting the athlete's journey, the challenges of balancing training with content creation, and the impact of community engagement. Boris shares insights on his experiences, the significance of building in public, and the legacy he hopes to create. The conversation culminates in reflections on the road to the Olympics and the opportunities that arise from sharing one's journey.TakeawaysBoris's journey into biathlon began at a young age due to his parents' love for skiing.Project 509 is about documenting every day of Boris's journey to the Olympics.Social media can be a powerful tool for athletes to share their stories and inspire others.Consistency in content creation is key, even during tough times.Building a community around sports can lead to greater engagement and support.Athletes should focus on documenting their process rather than striving for perfection in content.The importance of having a clear mission and goals in sports and social media.Boris emphasizes the need for athletes to give back to their communities.Social media can open doors to opportunities and sponsorships for athletes.The journey to the Olympics is filled with challenges, but perseverance is crucial.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Social Media Bromance04:52 Inspiration and the Journey to Biathlon07:18 The Path to Becoming an Olympian10:01 Project 509: Documenting the Olympic Journey12:54 Building in Public: The Athlete's Perspective15:22 Content Creation and Consistency18:18 Balancing Social Media and Athletic Life21:16 Opportunities from Social Media Engagement23:36 Community Engagement and Giving Back26:27 Future Aspirations and Financial Opportunities32:01 Rolls for Rolls: Building Community Through Roller Skiing36:22 Inspiration from Young Athletes: The Power of Community38:36 Legacy and Goals: What Will We Leave Behind?39:56 Challenges of Project 509: Overcoming Adversity43:10 Consistency in Content Creation: The Daily Grind47:15 Olympic Aspirations: The Road to Qualification50:38 Looking Forward: Anticipating the Olympics#biathlon, #Project509, #Olympics, #socialmedia, #athletejourney, #contentcreation, #communityengagement, #training, #legacy, #inspiration

In this episode, Henrik Christiansen, a Norwegian swimmer and Olympic athlete, shares his journey from a young soccer player to becoming a world-class swimmer and the infamous 'Muffin Man.' He discusses the importance of authenticity in building a personal brand, the pressures of social media fame, and how he navigated his viral moment during the Olympics. Christiansen emphasizes the need for athletes to view themselves as entertainers and the significance of enjoying their sport. He also reflects on monetizing his personal brand and the lessons learned along the way, encouraging fellow athletes to embrace their individuality and engage with their communities.TakeawaysHenrik Christiansen is a Norwegian swimmer specializing in long-distance events.He transitioned from soccer to swimming after realizing his passion for the water.Christiansen's journey includes a love for theater, which he balanced with swimming.He became known as the 'Muffin Man' during the Tokyo Olympics, gaining viral fame.Social media can be a powerful tool for athletes to build their personal brands.Authenticity and engagement are crucial for success on social media.Athletes should view themselves as entertainers to connect with their audience.Enjoying the sport is essential for long-term success and fulfillment.Monetizing a personal brand can provide financial stability for athletes.Christiansen encourages athletes to think about their identity beyond sports.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Henrik Christiansen02:52 The Journey into Swimming06:51 Choosing Between Sports and Theater07:42 Becoming the Muffin Man11:08 Going Viral at the Olympics15:58 The Pressure of Social Media Fame19:03 Building a Personal Brand as an Athlete26:35 Authenticity and Engagement in Social Media29:11 The Importance of Enjoying the Sport37:42 Monetizing the Personal Brand48:10 Future Opportunities and Lessons Learned#olympics #HenrikChristiansen #swimming #Olympicathlete #personalbrand #socialmedia #MuffinMan #athleteengagement #monetization #authenticity #sports #milanocortina #winterolympics

In this episode, Rakan Alireza shares his journey from Jeddah to the TED stage, discussing the challenges of public speaking, transitioning from rowing to cross-country skiing, and the rigorous training required for Olympic qualification. He reflects on the importance of community support, overcoming fears, and the mental aspects of competing. Rakan emphasizes the significance of enjoying the journey and setting future goals, while also highlighting the unique camaraderie within the sports community.Chapters00:00 The Journey Begins: From Jeddah to the TED Stage02:56 Overcoming Challenges: The Art of Public Speaking05:50 From Rowing to Skiing: A New Adventure08:44 The Road to the Olympics: Training and Trials11:43 Finding a Coach: The Search for Guidance14:22 Racing Against Time: The Qualification Process17:01 Injuries and Setbacks: Learning from Experience20:06 The Mental Game: Overcoming Fears and Doubts23:04 The Importance of Community: Support in Sports26:02 Looking Ahead: The Olympics and Beyond29:07 Reflections on the Journey: What It Means to Compete31:51 The Future: Goals and Aspirations Post-Olympics

In this recap, I pick my 5 favourite lessons from the last 5 episodes.

Alan Daniel Corona shares his inspiring journey as a self-taught cross-country skier representing Mexico at the Olympics. He discusses the importance of community, self-belief, and the challenges of balancing family life with rigorous training. The conversation delves into the significance of the Olympics, the unique dynamics of the Mexican skiing community, and the personal growth that comes from pursuing such a demanding sport. Alan emphasizes the importance of commitment, the value of learning from experiences, and the joy of being part of a supportive network of athletes. As they countdown to the upcoming Olympics, both speakers reflect on their motivations, aspirations, and the lessons learned along the way.TakeawaysAlan's journey into cross-country skiing began as a personal challenge.The Mexican skiing community is growing, with many athletes living abroad.Self-teaching has been a crucial part of Alan's training process.The Olympics represent a significant milestone for athletes, not just in terms of competition but personal growth.Community and support are vital for athletes, especially those from smaller nations.Commitment and consistency are more important than motivation in achieving goals.Alan emphasizes the importance of being the CEO of one's health.The journey to the Olympics is about more than medals; it's about inspiring others.Overcoming imposter syndrome is a common challenge for latecomers to sports.The conversation highlights the importance of sharing experiences and learning from each other.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage03:16 The Journey to Cross-Country Skiing10:30 The Mexican Cross-Country Skiing Community12:52 Self-Teaching and Overcoming Challenges16:49 The Meaning of the Olympics28:16 Building a Supportive Community42:21 Countdown to Cortina: Future Plans49:34 Reflections on the Journey and Personal Growth

In this episode Michal & I discuss the journey to the Olympics, sharing personal experiences, cultural clashes, and the importance of mental preparation in sports. They explore the significance of character in athletes, the Czech cross-country skiing team's history, and the excitement surrounding the upcoming Cortina 2026 Olympics. We also touch on training strategies, audience questions, and the value of patience and belief in achieving one's goals.TakeawaysThe Olympic tattoo symbolizes achievement and personal milestones.First Olympic experiences can be both challenging and memorable.Cultural clashes can occur at international events, especially regarding customs.Connecting with other athletes is a key part of the Olympic spirit.The journey to becoming an Olympian often starts with early passion and talent.The Czech cross-country ski team has a rich history and is growing in strength.Athletes need to be more than just competitors; they should embody values and character.Mental preparation is crucial for success in competitive sports.Training smart is as important as training hard; quality over quantity matters.Patience and belief in oneself are essential for long-term success.Chapters00:00 Olympic Aspirations and Tattoos04:36 First Olympic Experiences07:24 Cultural Clashes at the Olympics08:25 Advice for First-Time Olympians08:32 The Journey to Becoming an Olympian11:14 The Czech Cross-Country Ski Team13:32 The Importance of Character in Sports16:04 Mental Preparation and Training Strategies18:28 Promoting the Czech Republic21:07 Training Secrets and Mindset24:04 Pre-Race Routines and Superstitions25:46 Lessons from the World Cup25:58 The Future of Cross-Country Skiing28:24 Audience Questions and Insights31:05 Looking Forward to Cortina 202639:02 closing.mp3

This episode explores the journey of Holmenkollen Training Lab, the cultural factors contributing to Norway's success in winter sports, and the importance of team dynamics in coaching. The discussion also touches on the role of digital content in athlete training, the long-term vision for the training lab, and personal reflections on experiences at the Olympics. The podcast emphasizes the significance of accountability and the impact of idols in inspiring future athletes. This conversation explores the unique aspects of Norway's dominance in winter sports, particularly cross-country skiing. We discuss the historical and cultural factors that shape the Norwegian mentality towards sports, the significance of family influence in athletic success, and the upcoming Winter Olympics. Also, we delve into the technicalities of cross-country skiing, offering insights and tips for aspiring skiers, while also emphasizing the importance of community and the unifying power of sports across nations.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Goals00:49 The Journey of Homocon Training Lab03:45 Cultural Insights on Coaching and Athlete Development06:32 The Importance of Team Dynamics in Coaching09:27 The Role of Technology and Digital Content in Training11:41 Long-term Vision for Homocon Training Lab14:31 Experiences at the Olympics17:29 Norway's Dominance in Winter Sports20:35 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations28:12 The Norwegian Mentality in Sports31:08 Cultural Influences on Athletic Success32:19 Countdown to the Olympics34:31 Understanding Cross-Country Skiing37:05 Tips for Aspiring Skiers39:17 Teaching Cross-Country Skiing44:30 Learning from Global Perspectives45:50 The Unifying Power of Sports49:19 Mispelveien.mp3TakeawaysThe podcast aims to provide positive insights from athletes and coaches.Holmenkollen Training Lab was founded to meet people and share knowledge.Cultural factors play a significant role in Norway's success in winter sports.Team dynamics are crucial for effective coaching and athlete development.Digital content can enhance training and athlete engagement.The long-term vision for Hollmenkollen Training Lab includes creating a supportive workplace.Experiencing the Olympics as a coach is about the journey and the athletes' dreams.Norway's success in winter sports is attributed to a strong cultural mindset.Having idols in sports inspires the next generation of athletes.The importance of accountability partners in individual sports. Norway's success in sports is deeply rooted in its historical challenges and cultural mentality.The Norwegian mentality emphasizes hard work and resilience, shaped by harsh living conditions.Family influence plays a significant role in the development of athletes in Norway.Cross-country skiing requires a balance of technique, momentum, and relaxation for optimal performance.Training on roller skis is essential for year-round preparation in cross-country skiing.Teaching cross-country skiing can be challenging, especially with experienced adult learners.Different cultures have unique strengths that can enhance the understanding of sports training.The upcoming Winter Olympics is seen as a platform for unity amidst global challenges.Sports have the power to bring people together, transcending political differences.Cross-country skiing is a lifelong sport that can be enjoyed at any age.

Summary: In this episode Nicole Burger, a skeleton athlete representing South Africa, shares her journey into the sport, the challenges she faces, and her aspirations for the upcoming Olympics in Milan-Cortina. The discussion covers the mechanics of skeleton, the psychological resilience required, the community of athletes, and the balance between her military career and sports. Nicole emphasizes the importance of the Olympic spirit and the camaraderie among athletes from different nations, highlighting how sport brings people together.TakeawaysSkeleton is a thrilling sport that requires both physical and mental resilience.The first experience on a skeleton sled is both exhilarating and daunting.Understanding the mechanics of skeleton involves learning to steer and control the sled at high speeds.The psychological challenges of the sport can be more daunting than the physical ones.Community and support among athletes from different nations are crucial in the sport.Training for the Olympics involves rigorous preparation and a focus on points to qualify.National identity plays a significant role in the experience of competing internationally.Equipment logistics are complex and require careful management for successful competition.The ideal skeleton athlete combines speed, strength, and experience.The Olympics represent the pinnacle of achievement for athletes, fostering a sense of global community.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Skeleton and the Journey Begins03:16 The Thrill of the First Run04:06 New Chapter06:08 Understanding the Mechanics of Skeleton08:52 The Psychological Challenges of Skeleton11:14 The Path to Becoming a Skeleton Athlete14:13 The Equipment and Logistics of Skeleton16:57 The Competitive Landscape of Skeleton19:22 The Future of Skeleton and Personal Aspirations24:07 Journey to Skeleton: Personal Stories and Motivation30:00 The Olympic Spirit: Community and Friendship33:48 Olympic Memories: Personal Reflections and Experiences39:08 Preparing for the Olympics: Training and Goals41:45 Support Systems: Balancing Sport and Work44:21 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and ConnectionsKeywordsSkeleton, Olympics, Winter Sports, South Africa, Athlete Journey, Community, Training, Equipment, Mental Resilience, Sports Psychology

In this episode of Countdown to Cortina, Matt has a heartfelt conversation with Italian cross-country skiing champion Federico Pellegrino. They discuss the upcoming Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, the importance of athlete representation, and the balance between sport and personal life. Pellegrino shares insights on training, the evolution of cross-country skiing, and the significance of maintaining happiness and relationships outside of sport. The episode emphasizes the journey of an athlete, the legacy of the Olympics, and the importance of long-term goals.TakeawaysThe Milano Cortina Olympics present a unique opportunity for Italy.Athletes should focus on team success rather than individual accolades.Legacy is about societal impact and future opportunities for athletes.Balancing family life with professional training is crucial for success.Exploring different racing styles can enhance an athlete's performance.The evolution of training methods has leveled the playing field in cross-country skiing.Young athletes should prioritize long-term goals over short-term results.Mindset and personal happiness are key to athletic success.Athletes should seek opportunities beyond their sport during their careers.Building relationships and maintaining a positive mindset contribute to overall well-being.Chapters00:00 Countdown to Cortina: Introduction to the Podcast01:59 Federico Pellegrino: The Happy Champion02:44 The Italian Winter Olympics: A Unique Opportunity06:58 Legacy of the Milano Cortina Olympics09:14 Training Insights: Balancing Family and Sport12:20 Exploring Distance Racing: A New Focus17:10 Evolution of Cross-Country Skiing Training20:19 Advice for Young Athletes: Long-Term Goals23:01 Mindset and Performance: The Bigger Picture26:31 Life Beyond Sport: Balancing Family and Career29:56 The Importance of Relationships in Sports32:27 Finding Happiness: The Key to Success35:12 Athlete Representation: The Role of the Athlete37:23 Future Plans: Life After Sport41:32 The Journey: Enjoying the Process43:21 Recipe for Happiness: Personal Insights45:39 Audience Questions: Fun and Insightful51:54 Maintaining Longevity in Sport54:59 Looking Forward to Milano Cortina 2026Keywords#Olympics #crosscountryskiing #FedericoPellegrino #MilanoCortina #athletemindset #training #familybalance #sportslegacy #athleterepresentation #happiness

In this bonus episode I wanted to recap the first 5 episodes with picking my favourite take away from each episode. 1. Andrew Musgrave: Athletes needing their personalities to show through - which goes back to a topic I really want to talk more about which is how athletes can become more multi-facetted. Meaning being seen as more than just the sport.  You are more than your results! Muzzy discusses the role of athletes in building personal brandsThe more that athletes do the better for the sport, How can this be achievedCarina EdlingerIf you train all your life to win gold, your only up their for 10 minutes. They say, its about the journey, but i say its about what you make of the journey, its not enough to be a passenger in the journey you need to be in the driving seat.Make the most of it, document the process. Johann Olav KossYou need to believe that what your doing is whats right! Its the belief that your process is the winning process, Its easy to have a look over your shoulder and feel like what your doing is wrongYou train for so many hrs in a day, you also need to use your brain Dani AravichLeading the charge on changing the narrative around ParaSports, They are elite sports too, Para sports have come such a long way, Very cool to watchAnnika Uses Hypnosis - the mind is the answerLook at your your doing, then look at what your not. 

In this conversation, Annika Malacinski shares her journey as a Nordic combined athlete, discussing the unique duality of ski jumping and cross-country skiing. She reflects on her experiences, the challenges of competing in a sport that lacks gender equality in the Olympics, and her aspirations to inspire the next generation of female athletes. Annika emphasizes the importance of mental training, recovery, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of adversity.TakeawaysNordic combined is a unique sport combining ski jumping and cross-country skiing.The adrenaline rush is a significant motivator for athletes in extreme sports.Ski jumping requires mental focus, while cross-country skiing demands physical endurance.Annika's journey into ski jumping began at 16 after quitting gymnastics.Women's Nordic combined is a new sport, with ongoing efforts for Olympic inclusion.Mental training, including hypnosis, plays a crucial role in athletic performance.Annika aims to inspire young girls to pursue Nordic combined and fight for equality.Growing up in two cultures has shaped Annika's identity as an athlete.Sibling rivalry can be a motivating factor in sports.Recovery and injury prevention are essential for athletes.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup00:46 Meet Annika Malacinski: A Dual Athlete's Journey02:19 The Thrill of the First Jump17:55 Making History in Nordic Combined21:26 Fighting for Equality in Sports25:25 Living a Double Life28:18 Heritage and Family Influence in Sports30:06 Sibling Rivalry and Motivation32:57 Managing Training Load and Injury Prevention36:27 The Power of Mindset and Hypnosis44:12 Inspiration and Advocacy for Women's Inclusion in Sports49:58 annika outro .mp3Keywords#Nordiccombined #skijumping #crosscountryskiing #womenssports #Olympicequality, #athletejourney #mentaltraining #sportshistory #siblingrivalry #adrenaline #sports

In this episode, Dani shares her unique journey as a Paralympian from from discovering that there is actually a category for her disability, to then competing in not 1 but 2 Paralympics. She offers valuable advice for first-time Olympians, highlights the complexities of classification in para sports, and emphasises the need for inclusivity and understanding in the athletic community. Dani's insights into the mindset of athletes and the realities of competing at the highest level provide a compelling look into the world of Paralympic sports.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:48 Training and Preparation for the Games04:27 Understanding Classification in Para Sports40:07 The Path to Cross-Country Skiing and Competing46:48 Balancing Dual Disciplines in Sports51:37 Team USA's Unified Approach to Sports#Paralympics #Winter Olympics #Nordicskiing #athletemindset #sportsclassification #athleteadvice, #Olympicjourney #sportscommunity #inclusivity

Today's guest is one of Norway's greatest Olympians, and coming from the land of winter olympians that's saying something. Johan Olav Koss, is a 4 time Olympic Gold medal winning Speed Skater, 3 of which came during his home Olympics in Lillehammer 1994, where he not only won, he broke the world records while doing so! Spoiler alert, Johann shares how making peace with losing, helped him win, he shares a rare look back at the build up to the 94 Lillehammer olympics, and how the they distributed the pressure amongst team, to cope with the hope of a nation, and what life 30yrs after gold is like - AND how he has helped 20m children from war torn communities using the one thing he knows best, sport! I really enjoyed recording this one, so I hope you enjoy listening just as much as i did recording. TakeawaysThe importance of community support in sports.Mental preparation is key to overcoming pressure.Success in sports requires dedication and hard work.The journey to the Olympics is filled with challenges.Speed skating has various disciplines that require different skills.The 1994 Lillehammer Olympics was a pivotal moment in Norwegian sports history.Athletes must prepare for life after sports.Humanitarian work can provide a sense of purpose after athletics.Believing in one's training is crucial for success.The legacy of sports can impact millions of lives.Chapters00:00 Countdown to Cortina: The Olympic Spirit02:35 Team Avalanche: A New Era in Winter Sports04:54 The Journey Begins: Early Days in Speed Skating06:25 Understanding Speed Skating: Distances and Disciplines06:29 The Rise of a Champion: From Local to National07:15 Olympic Dreams: The Road to 199207:15 The Olympic Experience: Advice for First-Timers08:53 Technology and the Olympics: A New Era10:17 Reflections on the Olympic Journey15:08 The Evolution of the Olympics18:54 Preparing for Lillehammer 199421:13 Mental Strategies for Success26:46 Reflections on Pressure and Performance30:40 Life After Gold: Transitioning to New RolesKeywordsOlympics, speed skating, Lillehammer, mental preparation, Right to Play, sports legacy, athlete journey, humanitarian work, winter sports, Olympic history

In our second episode of Countdown to Cortina, matt sits down with Carina Edlinger, Paralympic gold medalist from Beijing 2022. Carina shares how she overcame loosing her sight, and became the most decorated Austrian Cross Country Skier of all time.

Muzzy shares his journey from Scotland to becoming a beloved figure in Norway's cross-country skiing scene. He reflects on his Olympic experiences, the evolution of the sport, and the importance of inclusivity and engagement in cross-country skiing. The discussion also touches on the role of social media in building an athlete's brand and the excitement surrounding the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympics. Muzzy emphasizes the need for innovation and a more engaging spectator experience to ensure the longevity of the sport.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cortina and Guest Background00:06 Olympic Experiences and Memories27:08 Team Dynamics and Funding in Cross-Country Skiing29:46 The Need for Diversity in Cross-Country Skiing32:47 Engaging Spectators in Cross-Country Skiing35:48 Innovative Ideas for Cross-Country Skiing Events38:30 Marketing Cross-Country Skiing to the Masses41:02 The Role of Athletes in Building Personal Brands46:16 Future of Cross-Country Skiing and Athlete Engagement46:50 Advice for Beginners: Getting Started in Cross-Country Skiing46:50 Pro Tips: Mastering Cross-Country Skiing50:00 Favuorite Courses: The Best of World Cup Skiing51:30 ending.mp3

This is countdown to cortina, a weekly podcast leading up to the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. Created & hosted by me, Matt C Smith. This time-limited series will feature conversations with past and present Olympic & Paralympic legends, cult heroes, and hopefuls.We are going to go on a journey to discover more about the different disciplines, about the athletes, and stories that make the Olympics the most loved & watched sporting event on the planet. In the process, educating, entertaining and inspiring through the values that sports promote. This is a countdown to cortina, and the clock starts now.