Newest Episode
Anna Hertel’s Journey: From Triathlete to Healing Through Counseling|167
Join Dr. Toby Brooks as he delves into the journey of Anna Hertel, author and former competitive triathlete. Discover how Anna navigated the intersections of endurance sport and personal trauma, finding healing beyond the metrics of competition. Through her book “Brick by Brick,” Anna shares her pilgrimage from abuse and identity struggles to empowerment and advocacy. Explore themes of resilience, transformation, and the redefinition of self in this insightful episode.
You. Aren’t. Done.YET.
Becoming UnDone: Where High Achievers Turn Setbacks into Comebacks. Join Dr. Toby Brooks as he guides you through the art of transforming unfinished goals into unstoppable growth, one inspiring story at a time.
Achievers aim high, but to fall short is fundamentally human. Sometimes we fail. Sometimes we simply run out of time. Either way, it is what we do with the end of one chapter that can make all the difference in the next. Do we fall apart at the seams, coming undone to be forever branded as someone who lost? Or do we see the fuller picture, recognizing that the task remains unfinished and understanding that the end of a chapter isn’t the same as the end of the story. Becoming UnDone is the podcast for those who dare bravely, try mightily, and grow relentlessly. Join author, speaker, and host Dr. Toby Brooks as he invites a new guest each episode to examine how high achievers can transform from falling apart to falling into place.
Recent Episodes
Recent Show Notes
156 | The Concussion That Changed Everything: Dr. Shawn Eagle’s Path to Purpose
Shawn Eagle, a renowned traumatic brain injury expert, shares his transformative journey from a collegiate athlete facing severe injuries to becoming a leading voice in concussion research. Hosted by Toby Brooks, “Becoming Undone” delves into the resilience needed to overcome life-changing setbacks and the power of redefining one’s identity. Eagle’s compelling narrative underscores how personal struggles and professional pursuits can align to make a meaningful impact in the field of sports medicine and athlete wellbeing. Tune into this heartfelt conversation on finding purpose through adversity.
155 | Transforming Trials into Triumphs: US Olympian Sarah Warren’s Journey to Becoming Undone
Olympian Sarah Warren joins Toby Brooks to share her inspiring journey from Division 1 soccer to the Olympic speed skating stage, overcoming ten surgeries along the way. Discover how Sarah’s resilience, fueled by family support and personal determination, transformed her setbacks into opportunities for growth. With a focus on mental toughness, community, and continuous ambition, Sarah’s story offers valuable insights into navigating adversity. Learn how she plans to transition into a career in orthopedic surgery, inspired by her experiences. This episode explores themes of perseverance, identity, and the power of believing in oneself.
154 | Courageous Career Changes: Uncertainty & New Beginnings with Pastor & Coach Chris McCormick
Former Division 1 strength coach Chris McCormick shares his transformative journey from coaching to ministry in this episode of Becoming UnDone®. Host Toby Brooks delves into the personal and professional challenges that led Chris to pivot from a coveted sports role to becoming a pastor at Reliant Church. The episode explores themes of identity, burnout, and rediscovering one’s purpose, offering insight into how skills from demanding professions can be redirected to fulfill new callings. Tune in to learn how pressure and change can reveal deeper truths about purpose and resilience.
153 | Matt Sayman’s Journey from Baylor Basketball Scandal to Redemption
Matt Sayman shares his journey from Baylor basketball standout to high school coach, navigating the devastating Baylor University basketball scandal. In conversation with Toby Brooks, Matt explores themes of identity, resilience, and transformation, reflecting on the impact of his faith and the pivotal moments that reshaped his life. Discover how the tumultuous 2003-2004 Baylor season laid the foundation for future successes, not just for the university, but for Matt’s personal growth and understanding of purpose. This episode touches on perseverance, redemption, and personal evolution in the face of adversity.
152 | Navigating Grief and Identity After Life’s Unexpected Changes with Sports Chaplain Roger lipe
Roger Lipe, a longtime sports chaplain, shares his story of personal upheaval and rediscovery on the “Becoming Undone” podcast. After his wife Sharon’s cancer diagnosis, Roger reevaluates his identity and purpose beyond his career and marital roles. Host Toby Brooks and Roger delve into themes of love, faith, and the unforeseen transformations following life-altering events. This episode particularly explores how Roger transitioned from ministry and caregiving into a new phase of consulting for leaders in the sports world, while embracing the powerful idea of resilience and purpose.
135 | From The Professor’s Playbook: All-Nighters, Strategic Planning, & Aristotelian Generosity
Join Dr. Toby Brooks in exploring the art of strategic thinking within high-performance environments. This episode delves into the importance of aligning actions with values, like the Aristotelian virtue of liberality, balancing generosity and resource management. Discover the power of systems over goals, insights into optimizing sports medicine teams, and the significance of a shared mental model. Learn from Toby’s personal journey, from his varied professional experiences to the lessons gleaned from unexpected challenges. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their strategic acumen and impact in sports medicine and beyond.
151 | Three Ways To Break Free from Destination Addiction: Embracing the Present Moment
Join Dr. Toby Brooks as he delves into the concept of “Destination Addiction” and the importance of staying present and savoring life’s moments. Reflecting on personal experiences and encounters, including a poignant meeting with Lubbock Christian’s basketball team and Coach Chess Tucker, Toby explores the universal struggles of high achievers in constantly chasing the next win. Unpack insights on how settling into these moments can enrich your life and build resilience without missing out on the “good old days” you’re living right now.
150 | VONN & LIU: Two Olympians, Two Comebacks. Grit Meets Freedom in Olympic Dreams
Explore the contrasting Olympic journeys of Lindsey Vonn and Alysa Liu in this compelling episode of Becoming UnDone® with Dr. Toby Brooks. Delve into the grit and determination of Vonn, chasing legacy despite setbacks, and Liu’s rejuvenating return, fueled by autonomy and joy. Brooks offers performance science insights into motivation, identity, and resilience, drawing parallels between high achievers in sports and everyday life. Whether through unyielding persistence or liberated choice, discover the transformative power of purpose and reinvention in overcoming life’s challenges.
149 | Caught in the Spotlight: Secrets of a Celebrity Business Manager with Jonathan Schwartz
Jonathan Schwartz shares his tumultuous journey from being a top-tier entertainment business manager to a convicted felon due to compulsive gambling and addiction. In conversation with Toby Brooks, Schwartz candidly discusses the consequences of his $7million embezzlement from Alanis Morissette and other A-list celebrities, his time in federal prison, and his path to recovery as a therapist focused on addiction and trauma. The episode delves into themes of accountability, humility, and transformation, offering insights into the psychology of addiction and the complex journey of rebuilding a life after public downfall.
148 | From Pro Athlete to CEO: The Science of Reinvention with Idris Haroon
Idris Haroon shares his journey from playing college football at Arizona to the Canadian Football League, highlighting the lessons learned under Coach Dick Tomey. Transitioning from athletics to entrepreneurship, Idris discusses founding DWD Moving Services, tackling challenges, and discovering a niche in commercial relocations. Toby Brooks delves into Idris’s experiences and insights on resilience, leadership, and redefining success beyond professional sports. This conversation explores the power of community, grit, and the transition from being an athlete to a thriving entrepreneur.