newest episode
123 | Part 11: Discovering Leadership Lessons from Coach Dick Tomey’s Legacy with 1998 Arizona Football Co-Captain Barrett Baker
Barrett Baker: From Walk-On to Leader for Life
In this inspiring episode of Becoming Undone, host Toby Brooks sits down with Barrett Baker—former walk-on turned team captain of the legendary 1998 Arizona Wildcats. Barrett shares the unlikely and unforgettable journey that took him from the bottom of the depth chart to the heart of one of the most successful teams in school history.
But this story goes far beyond football.
Now a decorated Assistant Fire Chief for the Tucson Fire Department, Barrett reflects on the leadership, integrity, and unwavering belief instilled by Coach Dick Tomey—lessons that still shape his life on the front lines and at home. With stories of handwritten notes, hard-earned respect, and quiet conviction, Barrett shows how a culture of belief can transform lives—and how one leader’s values can echo across generations.
This isn’t just a sports story. It’s a story about grit, mentorship, and becoming the kind of person others can count on—on any field, in any season.
undonepodcast.com/ep123
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
020 | INSPIRE with Jonica Bullock, Fitness Coach/Personal Trainer and Co-Host of the BUILT by FitBod Podcast
Toby Brooks speaks with Jonica Bullock, a Canadian interior designer turned fitness coach, about her inspiring journey from battling an eating disorder to empowering others through fitness. Jonica shares insights on overcoming disordered eating, finding her voice, and embracing health through disciplined training and intuitive eating. The episode explores the balance between motivation and discipline in achieving lasting fitness success. Jonica also discusses her role in the Fitbod community and the launch of the “Built” podcast, which continues to inspire others on their fitness journeys.
019 | From Struggle to Strength: Sabine Ehgoetz’s Journey of Self-Transformation
Sabine Ehgoetz, founder and coach of Mind Body Creations, shares her inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing in Germany to becoming a competitive bodybuilder and mindset advocate in Canada. Sabine discusses overcoming childhood trauma, navigating eating disorders, and breaking free from an abusive marriage to embrace self-love and empowerment. Addressing her ongoing personal growth, she also highlights the importance of resilience, mindset, and honest communication. This episode offers insights into transformation through discipline and self-acceptance, anchored by Sabine’s dedication to helping others achieve their dreams.
128 | Surviving a Nightmare: John Ulsh’s Journey from Tragedy to Purpose
John Ulsh shares his poignant journey from a devastating car accident at age 37 to becoming a motivational speaker and author. Despite a grim prognosis and multiple surgeries, John’s determination to reclaim his life shines through. He discusses the psychological battles of survival, rediscovering purpose, and the transformative power of sharing his story. Through candid reflections and resilience, John’s story is a testament to overcoming adversity. Join host Toby Brooks as they explore themes of survival, mental health, and impactful storytelling in this riveting conversation about finding strength in life’s storms.
017 | Finding Purpose: Jonathan Fruge’s Journey Through Music and Adversity
Jonathan Fruge, a talented tenor from Lubbock, Texas, shares his journey from aspiring engineer to world-class performer on stages like Carnegie Hall. Despite his initial hesitance, he finds his calling in music, supported by mentors and a vibrant community. However, when COVID-19 impacts the arts, Jonathan faces setbacks both personally and professionally. Join Toby Brooks as he delves into Jonathan’s story of resilience, discussing the highs and lows of a career in the performing arts and the ongoing quest for purpose and fulfillment.
.
016 | Dave Holmes: From MTV VJ Dreams to Resilient Life Lessons
Toby Brooks’ podcast episode features an insightful conversation with Dave Holmes, exploring the journey from near-success to personal achievement. Holmes, known for his time as an MTV VJ and his podcast “Waiting for Impact,” shares how resilience shaped his career after setbacks like losing the VJ contest to Jesse Camp. They delve into pop culture, the quest for personal growth, and the resilience required in the entertainment industry. This engaging discussion highlights perseverance in transforming life’s unpredictable turns into opportunities for growth and success.
Your Host
toby brooks
Strategic in purpose. Relentless in pursuit. Better Every Day.
My life’s purpose is to help others discover and pursue theirs.
I’m Toby. I’m a dreamer, a learner, and a doer. I’m an author, speaker, podcaster, and performance scientist. I’m also the Director of the Academy for Teaching & Learning and a Full Clinical Professor at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. I’ve published more than 20 books, 30 peer-reviewed articles, and 200+ magazine articles in a diverse career as an athletic trainer, professor, and automotive journalist.
I’m a first-generation college student currently working on my sixth degree, with AS from Southeastern Illinois College, a BS from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, both an MA and PhD from the University of Arizona, an MBA from LSU Shreveport, and another MS in Exercise Physiology in progress at Baylor. As a certified athletic trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist, I have worked with the likes of the Las Vegas Raiders, USA Baseball, Arena football, and minor league baseball in pro sports, several colleges and universities, and nearly a dozen different high schools in a career that has spanned two decades.
I’m a proud dad, husband, author, and speaker and I relentlessly pursue better every day.
