USMC (retired) John Ballenger

Show Notes

Episode 67: CONTROL with Kelli (Henderson) Chapman, Orthopedic Physician Assistant and Former Conference MVP D1 Athlete

About The Guest

Kelli Chapman is an orthopedic surgery physician assistant. She had a successful career as a softball player, earning accolades such as All-State and Conference Player of the Year. After her playing days, she pursued a career in athletic training and eventually became a physician assistant. Kelli is passionate about helping others and continues to work in orthopedics, providing care to patients and athletes.

Summary

Kelli Chapman shares her journey from being a highly successful athlete to becoming an orthopedic surgery physician assistant. She discusses the challenges of transitioning out of sports and the emotional toll it took on her. Kelly emphasizes the importance of resilience and finding new goals to pursue. She talks about her experiences in PA school and the determination it took to finally achieve her dream. Kelli’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome obstacles.

Key Takeaways

  • Transitioning out of sports can be emotionally challenging, and athletes often struggle with finding a new identity.
  • It is important to focus on what you can control and set new goals for yourself.
  • The path to success is not always linear, and setbacks can be opportunities for growth and learning.
  • Resilience and determination are key qualities that can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

Quotes

  • “Softball is not who I am. It was what I did.” – Kelli Chapman
  • “You have to be confident in yourself and your abilities. If you keep practicing and working hard, you can achieve your goals.” – Kelli Chapman

Connect

Timestamp Summary
0:00:00 The devastating transition from being an athlete to not.
0:01:01 Introduction to the podcast and guest, Kelli Chapman.
0:04:12 Kelli’s childhood and introduction to softball.
0:06:02 Success in high school and college softball.
0:09:08 The emotional impact of transitioning out of sports.
0:10:26 Coping with the loss of identity after sports.
0:12:31 Transitioning to a new city and academic challenges.
0:13:03 Applying to Texas Tech for anatomy and physiology interest
0:14:27 Stigma around athletes discussing mental health and depression
0:15:51 Relying on confidence, support system, and family during tough times
0:17:15 Wrestling with loss of control and identity as an athlete
0:18:29 Softball is what she did, not who she is
0:19:20 Reflecting on controllables and shifting goals after softball
0:22:27 Struggling with lack of control and finding new goals
0:24:37 Reflecting on the challenges of being an athletic trainer for softball
0:26:31 Transitioning after graduation and exploring career opportunities
0:27:04 Reflecting on academic goals and career uncertainty.
0:28:41 The struggle of feeling lost and lacking control.
0:29:39 The challenge of finding passion and purpose in life.
0:29:52 The difficult journey of applying to PA school.
0:32:43 Maintaining resilience and determination through setbacks.
0:33:50 Believing deep down that success will come.
0:34:18 Overcoming doubts and receiving acceptance to PA school.
0:36:36 The confirmation that PA school was the right path.
0:37:33 Recognizing the need for growth and practicing as a PA.
0:38:43 The challenging and rewarding experience of PA school.
0:40:13 Approach for every hitter, shake off failures, control what you can
0:40:48 Passed boards, first job at Parkview Orthopedics, work with athletes
0:42:28 Medicine is tough, treating patients is different than treating conditions
0:43:26 Stay strong, work hard, be resilient, keep practicing
0:44:09 Everyone struggles with doubt, strength in knowing you’re not alone
0:45:52 “Sandstorm” song, high intensity, keeps you going
0:47:24 Something missing, unknown, will find it in time
0:48:28 Follow Parkview Orthopedics, potential for future podcast with female team
0:49:17 Thankful for Kelli’s story, encouragement and inspiration
0:52:01 End of transcript

Song: Sandstorm by Darude