Athena Brownson, a Millennial light bearer, embodies resilience like few others. Once a professional skier, Athena underwent nine knee surgeries and two neck operations—yet her toughest challenge came off the slopes. Diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease, she found herself bedridden for months. But instead of letting the diagnosis define her, Athena transformed her adversity into purpose, turning pain into power and setbacks into stepping stones.

In this inspiring episode, Athena shares her journey of rediscovery—from elite athlete to real estate dynamo to motivational advocate. Her joy, energy, and positivity are contagious!

We cover:

• Finding purpose beyond performance
• The brutal reality of Lyme disease
• How to teach yourself resilience
• Learning through curve balls and letting go of “the plan”
• The emotional arc from fear to hope
• Tools and practices that help during life’s hardest moments
• Why passion matters when life doesn’t go as expected

🎧 Timestamps
0:00 Introduction4:18 Finding Passion6:46 Living with Lyme Disease8:30 Life’s Curve Balls11:46 Building Resilience15:14 The Emotional Landscape of Resilience17:16 Holding Onto Hope20:10 Self-Doubt vs. Confidence23:06 Daily Practices28:23 Curiosity and Lifelong Learning

💬 Memorable Quotes

• “Not everything is going to go according to plan.”
• “You can teach yourself resilience.”
• “This is my reality right now, and the best thing I can do is figure out how to get through it.”
• “Lyme disease was not part of my plan!”
• “Real estate isn’t just a transaction—it’s about building lifelong relationships.”
• “It doesn’t feel natural to be confident when you’re up against something difficult.”
• “We learn so much through other people’s stories.”

🔑 3 Key Takeaways

• Passion Fuels Recovery: From the top of her game in real estate to being bedridden, Athena’s love for her work helped reignite her drive. Passion can be a powerful motivator when everything else feels uncertain.
  
• Resilience Can Be Learned: Resilience isn’t just a trait—it’s a skill. Facing adversity head-on, feeling the emotions that come with it, and building a personal toolkit can help you emerge stronger.
  
• Hope Emerges from Acceptance: When fear, anger, and grief are acknowledged, they can lead to self-discovery. Hope shows up when we ask, “How is this shaping who I’m meant to be?”

🌟 More About Athena:
Now a thriving entrepreneur and advocate for resilience, Athena empowers others to navigate life's unexpected turns with authenticity, grit, and grace. Through her lived experience, she teaches how to align your career and life with your core values and embrace transformation.

📬 Connect with Athena:
Email: athena.brownson@compass.comWebsite: athenabrownsonrealtor.comInstagram: @athenabrownsonrealtor

🎙️ Connect with Yo (Your Host):
Email: yo@yocanny.comWebsite: girltaketheleadpod.comOnline Store: Cards & Gifts ShopFB Group: Girl, Take the Lead!Instagram: @yocanny