Today, we’re diving into a truly memorable interview with Olympic champion Katharine Berkoff. Recorded during NC State’s 50th-anniversary celebration of women’s swimming, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of Katharine’s journey, her reflections on being part of the Wolfpack, and her post-Olympic life. Berkoff won gold in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games as the preliminary backstroke lead off swimmer for Team USA and was also an individual bronze Medalist in the 100 meter backstroke.

Katharine shares what it’s like to reconnect with alumni who paved the way for her success, her thoughts on NC State’s tradition of producing world-class backstrokers, and the emotional resilience required to secure her Olympic medal. From her thrilling journey to becoming NC State’s first female Olympic champion to her candid reflections on transitioning to professional swimming, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and a touch of humor.

You’ll also get a glimpse into Katharine’s personal life as she shares the story of her beloved rescue kitten, Peach, and how she’s embracing her new chapter with renewed focus on self-care and recovery. Whether you’re an athlete, a fan of swimming, or someone seeking motivation to tackle life’s challenges, this episode is a must-listen. Dive in and join us for an unforgettable conversation with one of the sport’s brightest stars!

Check out this week's blog post about the NC State Women's Swimming 50th Anniversary Celebration https://www.championsmojo.com/blog/50-years-of-wolfpack-womens-swimming-a-celebration-of-legacy-connection-and-pride/

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Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

Get ready to be inspired as we bring you an exclusive conversation with Cejih (CG) Yung, a prominent sports agent and accomplished swimmer, on a special short format edition of Champion's Mojo from the pool deck. Cejih, who represents Olympic stars like Lilly King, Katie Grimes, and many other champions, shares his unique journey of juggling a high-powered career with his passion for swimming. From his exhilarating experience at the Paris Olympics to his recent races at the Nationals, Cejih opens up about the thrill of competition, the art of balancing life as a busy professional and athlete, and the mental preparation that keeps him grounded and motivated.

Join us as Cejih shares his philosophy of enjoying the journey rather than fixating on results, and reflects on anecdotes that highlight the joy and camaraderie found in the swimming community, his insights remind us of the lifelong benefits of staying active and embracing the sport at any age. Whether you're an athlete or an enthusiast, this episode is packed with inspiration and valuable takeaways that will energize your own journey in sports and beyond.

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

In this compelling interview, Allison Hayden, a 53 year old multi-national champion swimmer with the St. Pete Masters, shares her journey and triumphs as a versatile athlete excelling in multiple disciplines. Known for her prowess in the 200 butterfly and middle-distance freestyle, Allison dives into her unique training regimen, discussing the mental challenges of training alone in the Maine winter and her approach to maintaining motivation.

Allison’s swimming story is as multifaceted as her strokes. From her college career at UNC Wilmington, where she studied marine biology and trained alongside future Olympic coach Todd DeSorbo, to her post-college transition as a professional triathlete and open-water swimmer, she has consistently pushed boundaries. A defining chapter of her journey includes swimming with a college club team at age 34 while coaching and training alongside younger athletes, proving age is no barrier to high performance. Her passion for open-water swimming shines, with her favorite event being the 10K, a challenge she embraces for its mental and physical demands.

Top 5 Questions Answered in the Interview

1. How do you win a high-point award at a meet?
   
   
2. What’s the secret to training alone and staying motivated?
   
   
3. Is it possible to train effectively in unconventional settings, like a small pool or alone at sea on a ship?
   
   
4. How can a swimmer transition between sports or stages of life and maintain peak performance?
   
   
5. What draws swimmers to open water events, and why is the 10K Allison’s favorite?
   
   

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.