S1E88 - Hitting New Heights with High Jump Olympian & Pro Volleyball Player Erin Aldrich-Shean

Pursuit of Gold with Laura Wilkinson

In today's very special episode, Laura is honored to welcome Erin Aldridge-Shean, a true multi-sport athlete extraordinaire whose many achievements include being a 2000 US Olympian in track and field as well as a five-time US National Volleyball Team member. In this riveting conversation, Erin recounts her inspiring journey, shares insights into crucial issues within the NCAA system, and offers valuable guidance to athletes and heartwarming tales of transformation along the way.

Our guest’s remarkable career shines a spotlight on the potency of multidisciplinary athleticism and perseverance in the pursuit of Olympic aspirations. Together, she and Laura uncover the advantages and hurdles of engaging in multiple sports, the significance of setting audacious goals, and the paramount importance of ensuring a safe experience for all involved in sports. Erin's perspectives on the realm of collegiate sports and her dedication to helping individuals unlock their inner Olympian provide invaluable lessons for budding athletes and those in search of inspiration. Join Laura and Erin here today for this thought-provoking discussion on resilience, career transitions, and the importance of addressing misconduct in sports.

Episode Highlights

• Erin's remarkable journey balancing collegiate sports
• The importance of ambitious goals and pursuit of Olympic excellence in multiple sports
• Challenges and rewards of participating in various sports during youth and high school
• Erin's insights into crucial NCAA issues and advice for athletes
• Heartwarming stories of transformation and resilience
• Multidisciplinary athleticism's power in Olympic dreams
• Awakening the inner Olympian
• The power of resilience, determination, and family support in overcoming challenges and personal growth

Quotes:

• "Participating in multiple sports during my youth allowed me to develop exceptional body awareness skills that translated into success in volleyball and track."
• "The NCAA system has its challenges, but it's essential to raise awareness about issues like grooming and abuse, and I'm committed to helping athletes navigate these challenges."
• "I just remember being so relieved that someone from my family was there. I just felt the love."
• "Seize the moment, seize the day, because you never know if you're going to get another shot."
• "I was never going to be 6’3”. I was going to be stuck at 6’1”, and that's something that you can't coach."
• "I think that is actually my calling. I completely quit my career in commercial real estate and I launched Ascension Coaching."
• "I believe that everyone has an Olympian within them. Whatever that looks like, you just have to find it and tap into it."
• "Grooming, obviously, because it hits so close to home for me, is such a scary thing because you start to trust these people."

Links:

• The Pursuit of Gold Website
• Top 10 Mental Skills Guide

Laura’s Social Media:

• Laura’s Instagram
• Laura’s Facebook

Connect with Erin:

• Erin's LinkedIn
• Ascension Coaching