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.

takeaways

• Zak 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.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Zak Ketterson

02:03 The Journey of a Cross-Country Skier

06:10 Growing Up in Minnesota: A Cross-Country Skiing Culture

10:53 The NCAA System and Its Impact on Skiing

16:08 Building a Personal Brand as an Athlete

21:54 The Role of Social Media in Skiing

27:41 Content Creation: YouTube and Newsletters

33:47 The Importance of Authenticity in Content

39:37 The Future of Zak Ketterson: Olympic Aspirations

54:36 Reflections on the Olympic Experience