show notes

Click any entry to below to read about our guests and their episodes.

newest episode

133 | From the Professor’s Playbook: Derrick Rose’s Journey: A Lesson in Temperance and Resilience

Explore the powerful concept of temperance in athletic training, as Dr. Toby Brooks delves into the compelling story of NBA star Derrick Rose. With appearances from commentators like Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith, this episode examines Rose’s bold choice for a meniscus repair, prioritizing long-term health over immediate return. Learn about balancing emotion, pressure, and public expectation in clinical decisions. Discover how temperance fosters professional boundaries, ethical conduct, and compassionate clarity in sports medicine and personal relationships. Join the journey to become a more trusted and effective practitioner.

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other episodes

041 | Dr. Quincy Conley’s Journey From Struggling Student to Educational Leader

Quincy Conley, Director of the Teaching and Learning Center at A.T. Still University, shares his non-linear journey from struggling high school student to academic leader. In a conversation with Toby Brooks, Quincy reflects on the pivotal moments, including his shift from aspiring electrical engineer to instructional designer. He highlights his experiences with corporate instability, his pursuit of advanced degrees, and his passion for improving educational practices. Quincy’s story embodies resilience and the relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth, offering insights into embracing change and continuously learning.

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022 | Krickett Carpenter Pappas’ Journey: From Tragedy to Triumph and Heartbreak

Former gymnast Krickitt Pappas faced intense trials, from a career-ending injury to a devastating car accident that erased memories of her husband. Over years, she navigated recovery, relearned their love story, and penned a bestselling book, “The Vow,” inspiring a Hollywood adaptation. But in 2018, further challenges arose when her marriage ended. Now, Krickitt shares her journey of resilience, faith, and starting anew. Join host Toby Brooks as they delve into her story of survival and rediscovery, emphasizing that sometimes things must fall apart to come together.

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130 | Jacyln Emery: Navigating Identity and Resilience Beyond College Basketball’s End

Jaclyn Emery shares her journey from a high-achieving college athlete to an empathic high school athletic trainer. Facing unexpected challenges after a coaching change, Jaclyn navigated the emotional struggle of a difficult breakup with basketball. Through resilience and determination, she found her calling in helping young athletes deal with their own struggles. Hosted by Toby Brooks, this episode offers insights into identity, resilience, and the unexpected twists that lead to personal growth. Discover how Jaclyn transitioned from the court to become a mentor and champion for the next generation of athletes.

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129 | Part 15: Celebrating Coach Dick Tomey’s Legacy of Leadership and Love

Toby Brooks reflects on the life and legacy of coaching legend Dick Tomey in the final installment of his docu-series. Uncover powerful lessons from leadership to loyalty, drawn from conversations with guests like Lance Tominaga, Mike Flores, and Brent Brennan. Explore Tomey’s impact on countless lives, emphasizing belonging, culture, and long-lasting influence over accolades. This episode delves into Tomey’s transformative approach to mentoring, his unwavering loyalty, and how he built leaders both on and off the field—offering insights applicable beyond sports to all walks of life.

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032 | From Athlete to Athletic Trainer: Dustin Emery’s Journey of Resilience

Join Toby Brooks as he explores the journey of Dustin Emery, a four-sport athlete and state champion turned athletic trainer. Facing setbacks including a torn ACL and life-threatening blood clot, Dustin’s experiences guide his career in sports medicine. Now serving at McKinney High School, Dustin shares insights on balancing personal ambitions, adversity, and his deep-rooted faith. Discover how his past shaped his professional path, as he inspires others to push through challenges, sharing lessons learned from his own struggles and triumphs.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.
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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.

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014 | Branda Anderson: From Alaskan Athlete to Servant Leader and Educator

Join Toby Brooks as he explores resilience and servant leadership with Branda Anderson, a former Division 1 basketball player turned Holocaust education advocate. Discover Branda’s journey from a champion athlete inspired by her mentor to a teaching and learning specialist in Seattle. Uncover how her unwavering commitment to her role and community led her to pursue a PhD in Holocaust and Genocide Studies. Listen in as Branda shares insights on identity, faith, and the power of mentorship, making a case for pursuing impactful education with purpose and compassion.

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127 | The Life, Lessons, and Legacy of Dick Tomey Part 14: The Untold Love Story of Coach Tomey & Nanci Kincaid

Nancy Kincaid delves into the life, lessons, and legacy of her late husband, Coach Dick Tomey. Through heartfelt anecdotes, Nancy shares how Dick embodied humility, resilience, and compassion both on and off the field. Their story highlights Dick’s dedication to transforming challenges into opportunities and his profound impact on players and colleagues. This episode underscores themes of leadership, forgiveness, and reinvention, intertwined with insights from Nancy’s experiences as an acclaimed author and Dick’s partner. Join Toby Brooks in exploring the enduring influence of a coach who turned obstacles into triumphs.

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013 | Steve Safranek’s Journey from the Gridiron to the Yoga Mat: The Unexpected Path to Contentment

Explore the transformative journey of Steve Safranek, from aspiring athlete to retail executive and finally a yoga instructor and author. In this insightful episode, Toby Brooks discusses Steve’s path from the gridiron to authoring “The Sh\*t No One Wants to Hear,” embracing life’s uncomfortable truths. Delve into Steve’s pivotal career shifts, from Target Corp to the holistic lifestyle, highlighting the role of yoga in his personal and professional metamorphosis. This story underscores resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of alignment between passion and purpose.

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011 | Johnny Quinn: From NFL Dreams to Olympic Bobsledding Triumph

Join host Toby Brooks as he delves into the inspiring journey of Johnny Quinn from NFL hopeful to Olympian. Explore themes of resilience, determination, and self-awareness as Johnny navigates the highs and lows of pro football dreams, embracing unexpected paths like bobsledding. Learn how shaping one’s identity, setting strategic goals, and staying relentless can transform setbacks into triumphs. Discover insights on pushing through closed doors, finding purpose beyond sports, and leveraging one’s unique skill set for future success. A must-listen for anyone seeking motivation and growth amidst life’s challenges.

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008 | Mike Tyson’s Journey: From Rock Bottom to Recovery Advocate

Toby Brooks explores themes of resilience and recovery with Georgia native Mike Tyson, the executive director of Take Action Today. Tyson shares his journey from a tumultuous upbringing and substance use challenges to discovering purpose and leadership in a community-focused nonprofit. Highlighting the importance of supportive environments, this episode delves into Tyson’s innovative community-centered approach to addiction recovery. Through personal anecdotes and insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of overcoming life’s trials and the transformative power of community engagement in healing.

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010 | From Hometown Hero to Redemption: Josh Washington’s Basketball Journey

Toby Brooks delves into the transformative journey of Josh Washington, a former high school basketball star from Lubbock, Texas. Faced with setbacks during his time with Texas Tech, Washington battled depression and self-doubt before transferring to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, where he thrived. Post-college, he played overseas and later embraced officiating and ministry. Now, as the founder of Josh Washington Elite Basketball, he imparts on-court skills and life lessons to youth. Join Toby as Josh shares his struggles with identity and purpose, embodying resilience and growth through faith and basketball.

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125 | Dick Tomey Part 13: Ken Niumatalolo Reflects on Leadership Lessons from Coach Tomey

Toby Brooks explores the profound leadership and legacy of Coach Dick Tomey through a captivating discussion with Ken Niumatalolo, head coach of San Jose State Spartans. Reflecting on Tomey’s impact from Hawaii to Arizona, they delve into the enduring qualities of integrity, connection, and resilience that Tomey instilled in his players. As Niumatalolo shares insights into how Tomey’s influence continues to shape his coaching philosophy, listeners gain a deeper understanding of authentic leadership that transcends wins and losses, highlighting the importance of culture and personal growth.

undonepodcast.com/ep125

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007 | From Rocket Scientist to Legendary Arizona Gymnastics Coach: Bill Ryden’s Journey

In this episode of “Becoming UnDone,” host Toby Brooks, amid personal challenges, explores powerful stories from the life and legacy of Coach Dick Tomey. Featuring insights from Brent Brennan, Arizona Wildcats head coach, the episode delves into career-defining moments shaped by Tomey’s leadership style. Through compelling narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of Tomey’s impact on players and coaches, emphasizing relationships, integrity, and personal growth. As Brent shares memories, lessons, and aspirations, listeners uncover the enduring influence of Tomey’s mentorship on modern coaching and personal development.

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124 | Dick Tomey Part 12: Heart and Hustle with Arizona Wildcat Legend Kelvin Eafon

Kelvin Eafon: Leading with Heart, Living with Purpose

What happens when belief becomes a catalyst—and leadership becomes a calling?

In this powerful episode of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks is joined by Kelvin Eafon, former Arizona Wildcat co-captain, whose journey from a basketball recruit under Lute Olson to a football leader under Coach Dick Tomey is nothing short of remarkable. Kelvin opens up about what it meant to switch sports, find purpose, and rise as a quiet force of leadership during one of the most storied seasons in school history.

But this conversation isn’t about stats or highlights—it’s about heart.

Kelvin shares how Coach Tomey’s simple but transformative acts of belief and love shaped his identity as both an athlete and a man. Now a coach and mentor himself, Kelvin is passing down those same values to the next generation.

If you’ve ever wondered what real leadership looks like—or how one person’s belief can change everything—this episode is your playbook.

undonepodcast.com/ep124

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005 | Mike Meyer’s Journey: From Baseball Prodigy to Coaching Success

In this episode of “Becoming UnDone,” host Toby Brooks, amid personal challenges, explores powerful stories from the life and legacy of Coach Dick Tomey. Featuring insights from Brent Brennan, Arizona Wildcats head coach, the episode delves into career-defining moments shaped by Tomey’s leadership style. Through compelling narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of Tomey’s impact on players and coaches, emphasizing relationships, integrity, and personal growth. As Brent shares memories, lessons, and aspirations, listeners uncover the enduring influence of Tomey’s mentorship on modern coaching and personal development.

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004 | Brad Arnett: Journey From College Setback to Strength Coach Success

In this episode of “Becoming UnDone,” host Toby Brooks, amid personal challenges, explores powerful stories from the life and legacy of Coach Dick Tomey. Featuring insights from Brent Brennan, Arizona Wildcats head coach, the episode delves into career-defining moments shaped by Tomey’s leadership style. Through compelling narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of Tomey’s impact on players and coaches, emphasizing relationships, integrity, and personal growth. As Brent shares memories, lessons, and aspirations, listeners uncover the enduring influence of Tomey’s mentorship on modern coaching and personal development.

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002 | Kara Fry Meyer’s Journey: From Team USA Gymnastics and University of Arizona Gymnastics Star to Life Mentor

In this episode of “Becoming UnDone,” host Toby Brooks, amid personal challenges, explores powerful stories from the life and legacy of Coach Dick Tomey. Featuring insights from Brent Brennan, Arizona Wildcats head coach, the episode delves into career-defining moments shaped by Tomey’s leadership style. Through compelling narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of Tomey’s impact on players and coaches, emphasizing relationships, integrity, and personal growth. As Brent shares memories, lessons, and aspirations, listeners uncover the enduring influence of Tomey’s mentorship on modern coaching and personal development.

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001 | From Wall Street Dreams to Addiction Recovery Advocate: Hazelden Betty Ford Executive Joseph Skrajewski’s Journey

In this episode of “Becoming UnDone,” host Toby Brooks, amid personal challenges, explores powerful stories from the life and legacy of Coach Dick Tomey. Featuring insights from Brent Brennan, Arizona Wildcats head coach, the episode delves into career-defining moments shaped by Tomey’s leadership style. Through compelling narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of Tomey’s impact on players and coaches, emphasizing relationships, integrity, and personal growth. As Brent shares memories, lessons, and aspirations, listeners uncover the enduring influence of Tomey’s mentorship on modern coaching and personal development.

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122 | The Science of the Comeback: Rebuild with Purpose and Clarity

Toby Brooks: The Science of the Comeback

What happens when you finally reach the goal you’ve worked toward your entire life—only to feel more lost than ever?

In this vulnerable and insightful solo episode of Becoming Undone, host Toby Brooks turns the spotlight inward, sharing his personal journey from academic triumph to existential turmoil. After achieving the coveted milestone of tenure, Toby found himself confronting a question that haunts high achievers everywhere: Now what?

Drawing from years of lived experience and study, he introduces “The Science of the Comeback,” a practical, powerful framework built on three pivotal steps: Reflect, Realign, and Rebuild. It’s not about bouncing back. It’s about becoming different, stronger, and more aligned with who you’re meant to be.

Whether you’re navigating burnout, redefining success, or staring down the silence that follows achievement, this episode offers clarity, courage, and a roadmap forward.

Listen in—and discover how becoming undone might just be the beginning.

undonepodcast.com/ep122

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121 | Part 10: Celebrating Coach Dick Tomey’s Legacy of Pioneering Athletic Trainers with Magie Lacambra

Magie Lacambra: Breaking Barriers and Building Belief

In this powerful installment of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks sits down with Magie Lacambra—trailblazing athletic trainer and current Team Sport Manager at Gatorade—to reflect on her groundbreaking journey and the profound influence of legendary coach Dick Tomey. From being one of the first women in NCAA Division I football athletic training to leading athlete care at the University of Arizona, Magie shares what it meant to earn trust, navigate resistance, and ultimately thrive in a male-dominated world.

Through stories of quiet courage and steadfast resilience, Magie paints a vivid portrait of a leader shaped by Tomey’s ethos of empathy, inclusion, and unwavering belief in people. It’s a heartfelt tribute to the kind of strength that builds lasting legacies—not just in wins and losses, but in lives changed along the way.

Whether you lead a team, support others behind the scenes, or simply need a reminder of what compassionate leadership looks like in action, this conversation will stay with you long after it ends.

Listen now and rediscover the power of care, culture, and connection.

undonepodcast.com/ep121

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120 | Part 9: Arizona Football Head Coach Brent Brennan Reflects on Coach Dick Tomey’s Lasting Legacy

In this episode of “Becoming UnDone,” host Toby Brooks, amid personal challenges, explores powerful stories from the life and legacy of Coach Dick Tomey. Featuring insights from Brent Brennan, Arizona Wildcats head coach, the episode delves into career-defining moments shaped by Tomey’s leadership style. Through compelling narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of Tomey’s impact on players and coaches, emphasizing relationships, integrity, and personal growth. As Brent shares memories, lessons, and aspirations, listeners uncover the enduring influence of Tomey’s mentorship on modern coaching and personal development.

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119 | Part 8: Positive Coaching Alliance’s Rich Tomey Reflects on the Lasting Impact of his Dad, Coach Dick Tomey

, Rich vividly recounts memories of his father, revealing both personal anecdotes and professional insights that highlight Coach Tomey’s unique approach to leadership and personal growth. Known for his mantra, “football isn’t complicated; people are,” Coach Tomey’s consistent focus on relationship-building and personal development are themes repeatedly echoed by those who knew him best.

The discussion centers around the enduring influence of Dick Tomey’s values, particularly the importance of perseverance and the prioritization of people over results. Rich shares how his father’s life lessons have shaped his own career path with the Positive Coaching Alliance, where he strives to instill character and integrity in coaching. The episode also explores Coach Tomey’s career from his early years in Hawaii to his noteworthy achievements at Arizona and San Jose State University, highlighting his commitment to nurturing grit and character in athletes.

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118 | Part 7: Coach Dave Fipp Reflects on Coach Dick Tomey’s Enduring Legacy and Leadership

Toby Brooks delves into the enduring impact of Coach Dick Tomey, exploring his unique approach to leadership and mentorship through heartfelt reflections from former players and colleagues. Featuring an interview with Dave Fipp, the Special Teams Coordinator for the Detroit Lions, the episode highlights Tomey’s profound effect on lives both on and off the field, emphasizing a legacy of love, truth, and personal growth. Discover how Tomey’s philosophy continues to shape future generations, underscoring the power of authentic leadership and its lasting influence.

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117 | Part 6: Coach Dino Babers Talks Roaches, Man Hugs, and the Art of Building a Team with Love

Join host Toby Brooks as he reflects on the legacy of renowned football coach Dick Tomey with guest Dino Babers, Syracuse University’s former head coach. Brooks shares a personal story about a free T-shirt that inadvertently shaped his life, while Babers recalls valuable lessons learned from Tomey. Explore themes of unwavering commitment, leadership, and the power of storytelling in building team cohesion. Through heartfelt anecdotes, discover how Tomey’s influence extended beyond the football field, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he touched.

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116 | Part 5: Coach Rip Scherer: Coach Dick Tomey’s Legacy of Leadership and Resilience

Toby Brooks relives the trials and lessons from the late 90s Arizona football seasons under Coach Dick Tomey. The episode features insights from Coach Rip Shearer, who recounts Coach Tomey’s remarkable leadership, recruitment strategies, and the strong relationships he fostered across his career. From Tomey’s unique game-day tactics to his impact on Shearer’s coaching journey, discover how Tomey’s legacy transcended wins and losses, shaping countless careers in football and beyond. Next, expect stories from Coach Dino Babers and NFL coach Dave Phipp to further illuminate Tomey’s enduring influence.

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115 | Part 4: 4X Super Bowl Champ Jesse Sapolu Discusses Coach Dick Tomey’s Legacy: Transforming Lives Through Football and Culture

Toby Brooks delves into the profound influence of Coach Dick Tomey through engaging conversations with NFL star Jesse Sapolu. Sapolu discusses his transformational journey from a troubled teenager to a four-time Super Bowl champion, highlighting Tomey’s pivotal role in his life. Discover how Tomey’s keen understanding of Hawaiian culture and his unique approach to leadership, emphasizing family, respect, and perseverance, left an indelible mark on players and the sport. This episode offers deep insights into leadership and cultural connection, unveiling the legacy of a coach who inspired beyond the game.

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114 | Part 3: Coach Dick Vermeil Reflects on Coach Tomey’s Impact

Toby Brooks delves into the impactful legacy of Coach Dick Tomey, revealing intimate stories and lasting lessons from the field. Featuring insights from Hall of Fame coach Dick Vermeil, the episode explores Tomey’s profound influence at UCLA, Hawaii, Arizona, and beyond. Discover how Tomey’s leadership transcended football, emphasizing people and culture over accolades. With guest appearances by Vermeil and other notable figures, Brooks highlights the enduring values and relationships Tomey nurtured, underscoring the power of a coach’s legacy beyond the final whistle.

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109 | Champion to Starter with Carl Banks

About the Guest: Carl Banks is a legendary NFL linebacker, recognized for his influential career with the New York Giants where he secured two Super Bowl championships. The #3 overall pick in the 1984 NFL Draft out of Michigan State, Banks transitioned successfully...

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EP91: CHANGES (w3w) with Toby Brooks

Show Notes EP91: CHANGES (w3w) with Toby Brooks About the Host Toby Brooks is a seasoned professional with over 14 years of experience at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Starting his higher education journey at a community college, Toby eventually earned...

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EP72: GENERATIONS (w3w) with Brynnan Brooks

Show Notes Episode 72: GENERATIONS (w3w) with Brynnan Brooks Summary In this episode, Toby reflects on generational differences and stereotypes with his daughter, Brynnan Brooks. They discuss the characteristics and perceptions of their respective generations,...

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EP58: LETTERS with Emma Middleton Morris, 2-Time NCAA National Champion, HS & College All-American, and Former D1 Women’s Basketball Player

Emma Middleton Morris shares her journey as a college basketball player, from struggling with confidence and self-esteem to finding success and redemption. She discusses the highs and lows of her career, including her decision to transfer schools and her experience as a super senior. Emma also reflects on the importance of identity and the lessons she has learned from failure.

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EP45: GEAR (w3w) with Toby Brooks

Toby Brooks shares his journey of discovering his purpose and aligning it with his podcast, “Becoming Undone.” He reflects on the impact of Viktor Frankl’s book, “Man’s Search for Meaning,” and how it led him to redefine his mission, vision, and core values. Toby introduces his new program, GEAR UP, which aims to help aspiring high achievers define and achieve their goals through encouragement, accountability, and connection with like-minded individuals.

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EP44: ELEVATE (PT2) with Chris Carr, Former NBA Basketball Standout and Current Men’s Basketball Coach, Drury University

In this episode, Chris Carr, a former NBA player turned basketball coach. Carr shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Missouri to playing college basketball at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and eventually making it to the NBA. He discusses the highs and lows of his playing career, including his experience in the NBA Slam Dunk Finals and a career-ending knee injury. Carr also talks about his transition into coaching and the importance of impacting young people’s lives. He shares stories about his children’s athletic achievements and his aspirations to become a collegiate head coach.

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EP37: SPARTAN MINDSET with Author Reed Maltbie

Show Notes: Episode 37 THE SPARTAN MINDSET with TEDx Speaker, Author, and Coach Reed Maltbie Words matter. The choices we make the words we choose to speak and to write send powerful signals to the people we are trying to lead or inspire can make all the difference...

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EP22: RESTORED with Krickitt Pappas Carpenter

Episode 22: RESTORED with Krickitt Carpenter from The Vow For Arizona native Krickitt Carpenter, early athletic dreams of a college scholarship came true when she competed and earned her way to Cal State Fullerton where she competed on the gymnastics team. Sadly, a...

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