Becoming UnDone® with Dr. Toby Brooks - Dr. Toby Brooks

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Anna Hertel | Journey From Triathlete to Healing Through Counseling | 167 Sep 27, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Anna Hertel is a former competitive triathlete and Ironman competitor who has transitioned into a new chapter of life as an author and counselor-in-training. Her experiences in endurance sports took her across the globe, where she competed in numerous triathlons, including 45 races and two Ironman competitions. Originally from Germany, Anna moved to the United States at the age of 12. Besides her athletic pursuits, she holds a degree in creative nonfiction writing and is currently working to complete her studies in psychology with a focus on helping women navigate trauma and identity. Her memoir, "Brick by Brick: A Memoir of Endurance, Healing, and Becoming," explores the intersections of athleticism, personal growth, and psychological healing.

Episode Summary

In this captivating episode of Becoming UnDone, Anna Hertel shares her extraordinary journey from competing in high-stakes triathlons to embracing a new calling as an author and therapist. Anna reflects on her life’s pivotal moments, including her move from Germany to the U.S., her struggles with identity, and the discipline of competitive sports which eventually aided her healing process. She opens up about how the rigor of triathlon training provided structure during turbulent times and how she navigated the transition to life after sport, ultimately redefining her purpose.

Anna delves into her realization that athletic achievements were initially a form of escaping trauma, detailing the physical and mental toll that competitive sports took on her body and mind. Having been diagnosed with ADHD and having faced complex trauma, Anna describes how acknowledging these challenges has informed her new path. The episode is rich with insights about personal resilience and the critical work of self-discovery. Anna's story not only highlights the highs of a driven youth but also the immense courage required to embrace change and pursue fulfillment beyond competitive endeavors.

Key Takeaways

Anna Hertel’s transformation from a competitive triathlete to an author was driven by a need to reconstruct her identity after recognizing the physical and emotional toll of endurance sports.
Endurance sports provided Anna with structure and control during a chaotic life phase but also served as an escape from confronting trauma.
After being diagnosed with ADHD, Anna gained a deeper understanding of her past behaviors and motivations, which was pivotal in shaping her new career path in psychology.
Anna's memoir aims to educate and inspire others by intertwining her personal story with psychoeducation, emphasizing the healing journey from trauma.
The book "Brick by Brick" is a testament to the importance of redefining one’s identity and purpose, showcasing Anna’s journey to help others heal while continuing her own personal growth.

Notable Quotes

"Triathlon gave me structure in an otherwise extremely turbulent mindset." – Anna Hertel
"What happens when the thing that once saved you is no longer the thing you need?" – Dr. Toby Brooks
"Real healing required me to discover that I was more than those miles, those medals, and those finish lines." – Anna Hertel
"I have to sit in the darkness and this discomfort, and how there's really some damage. I gotta put language to what actually occurred." – Anna Hertel
"If I want something bad enough, I will get it. And trusting my body to follow through, that was pretty awesome." – Anna Hertel

Resources

Anna Hertel's website
Anna Hertel on Instagram
"Brick by Brick: A Memoir of Endurance, Healing, and Becoming" available on Amazon
The Science of the Comeback - scienceofthecomeback.com
"Friday" by Rebecca Black on Spotify

Anna Hertel’s journey from triathlete to therapist embodies the profound exploration of identity and healing. For a raw and insightful conversation about personal evolution and resilience, listen to the full episode. Stay tuned for more enlightening stories on Becoming UnDone.

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Alexandria Crow | When Achievement Breaks You: Reinvention and Recovery | 166 Sep 21, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Alexandria Crow is a renowned yoga instructor and former collegiate gymnast from the University of Arizona. She gained visibility in the yoga world through teaching globally, appearing on magazine covers, and being known for her extraordinary physical ability. However, her career took a significant turn when injuries led her to question conventional yoga practices. Today, Alex is a thought leader in the yoga community, advocating for healthier, sustainable practices and teaching the philosophical underpinnings of yoga. She offers teacher training and guidance on professional and personal growth, helping others navigate the ever-evolving landscape of yoga instruction.

Episode Summary

In this compelling episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Dr. Toby Brooks talks to Alexandria Crow, a former collegiate gymnast turned yoga instructor, about her transformative journey through success, injury, and self-discovery. The episode delves into how Alex has shifted from experiencing profound physical achievements to embracing a deeper understanding and teaching of yoga, one that emphasizes sustainable practices and philosophical insights. Her story highlights the emotional and bodily toll of high achievement and the psychological pivot necessary for holistic health and fulfillment.

Alexandria Crow touches on the theme of resilience as she shares personal anecdotes about overcoming serious physical injuries and a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Her journey underscores the value of re-evaluating success and perfectionism, both within herself and the yoga industry, emphasizing a shift toward functionality over performance. Dr. Toby Brooks explores how these life-altering experiences have redefined Alex's professional path, leading her to empower others with her wisdom and strategies for thriving health and mindful careers. This interview features powerful insights into personal growth through adversity, encouraging listeners to embrace their life experiences as integral pieces of a larger journey.

Key Takeaways

Rethinking Success in Yoga: Alex challenges traditional yoga practices, emphasizing the importance of sustainable techniques that prioritize health over aesthetic achievement.
Personal Growth from Adversity: Her physical injuries and health scares catalyzed a significant transformation in her approach to life and profession, focusing on teaching and supporting others.
Teaching Methodologies: Her story underscores the significance of philosophy, adaptability, and meeting students' needs within yoga instruction to promote genuine inclusivity.
Disassembling Perfectionism: Alex shares insights about dismantling personal and societal expectations around perfection, drawing from her experiences in gymnastics and yoga.
Empowering Others: She is committed to helping yoga teachers achieve professional success without compromising their health, using her marketing and management experience to guide them.

Notable Quotes

"Failing doesn't feel like a thing to me because it's just more data that I have to try again or to do something different."
"This isn't what I want to be doing. I want to be valued for my brain and my intellect and what I'm offering."
"Sometimes it's simply more information about whatever's coming next."
"Life is just data; you're never too old to start again, and you're never too good to take out the trash."
"It's not about how I can look. It's not about what I can do. Nobody's perceiving any of those as my worth."

Resources

Alexandria Crow's Instagram
Yoga Physics Website
Mentioned music: "Holocene" by Bon Iver and "No Diggity" by Blackstreet.

Discover how Alexandria Crow’s journey through hardships and triumphs reshaped her approach to yoga and life. Listen to the full episode for an inspiring conversation, and be sure to stay tuned for more illuminating content from the "Becoming UnDone" series.

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Finding Strength in Setbacks: Lessons from Top Gun Aug 31, 2026

Show notes

About the Host

Dr. Toby Brooks is a professor, author, speaker, and performance scientist with over two decades of experience working as an athletic trainer and strength coach. His clientele has ranged from professional athletes to high school competitors. Currently, he focuses on understanding high achievers across various domains, observing their paths to success despite failures and setbacks. Dr. Brooks is passionate about sharing insights on overcoming challenges and maximizing potential, integrated into his podcast, Becoming UnDone.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone, Dr. Toby Brooks reminisces about the iconic movie Top Gun and its personal significance, tying it to deeper revelations about setbacks and recovery. With vibrant storytelling, Brooks explores how memories of watching Top Gun with his father at a transformative time in his life have shaped his understanding of resilience. He delves into the movie's themes, particularly focusing on Maverick's journey post-tragedy, drawing insightful parallels to real-life challenges.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Brooks reflects on the themes of recovery, healing, and finding strength after failures. He compares Maverick's need to "get back in the saddle" to real-life experiences, encouraging listeners to acknowledge their struggles and continue striving forward. Using a compelling narrative, Brooks conveys that while setbacks might alter life's trajectory, they also offer profound growth opportunities. The episode resonates with anyone who has faced a disruption in their professional or personal life and seeks motivation to soar once again.

Key Takeaways

The journey to recovery involves acknowledging pain, rebuilding confidence, and embracing new beginnings.
Experiences, such as setbacks, significantly impact self-perception and responses to high-pressure situations.
Confidence is often rebuilt one step at a time, sometimes requiring the support of mentors and allies.
Major setbacks may prompt re-evaluation of identity and purpose but can lead to growth and new opportunities.
The importance of having mentors who encourage persistence, healing, and continued effort in the face of adversity.

Notable Quotes

"When we've been through failure or navigated loss, psychologists would tell us that there is a natural tendency to avoid further trauma."
"A major setback can do more than interrupt our plans. It can make us question our judgment."
"The comeback isn't simply getting cleared. The comeback is learning how to fly again."
"You can be cleared before you're confident. You can be capable before you feel capable."
"Surround yourself with people who will keep believing in your return."

Resources

Becoming UnDone Podcast
Dr. Toby Brooks' social media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn
Book: "Sensory Overload" by Dr. Toby Brooks

Join Dr. Toby Brooks in this inspiring episode as he navigates the complexities of setbacks and comebacks. Listen in to explore how embracing challenges can lead to profound personal growth and resilience. Stay tuned for more engaging content on Becoming UnDone, where unraveling can be the starting point for rebuilding a stronger self.

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Dr. Matt Geddie | Building Wealth Through Intentional Choices and Financial Planning | 164 Aug 23, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Dr. Matt Geddie is a retired occupational therapist and former professor at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to empowering individuals both in healthcare settings and the classroom. Beyond his professional achievements, Matt is recognized for his astute financial acumen, having retired early with significant financial independence. He now focuses on guiding others through financial planning and life transitions in retirement through his online platform, ChangeEight.

Episode Summary

In this enlightening episode of Becoming UnDone, Dr. Toby Brooks engages with Dr. Matt Geddie, a financially savvy retired professor, about the principles of achieving financial independence. Dr. Geddie narrates his journey from being an occupational therapist to retiring early with a net worth of $1.7 million—a feat accomplished through strategic savings, living modestly, and intentional investment choices. His story is less about secret financial tricks and more about consistent and disciplined financial habits.

Dr. Geddie emphasizes that creating a strong financial future doesn't require enormous salaries. Instead, it's built on understanding opportunity costs and making informed decisions. He discusses the role of budgeting, starting early in retirement planning, and fostering open financial dialogues within relationships. The episode highlights life’s unpredictable expenses and how they shouldn't steer individuals away from achieving their financial goals. This engaging dialogue not only offers valuable financial insights but also explores how financial freedom can be about making deliberate life choices.

Key Takeaways

Financial independence is achievable through disciplined savings and investment, not by earning high incomes.
Consistent budgeting and understanding opportunity costs are crucial to long-term financial success.
Building wealth involves planning and communication, particularly in relationships, about financial goals.
Financial freedom allows for greater life choices and flexibility, rather than simply accumulating wealth.
Retirement planning should begin as early as possible to leverage compound interest.

Notable Quotes

"You don't have to make $150,000 or $200,000 a year to get to be a millionaire." – Dr. Matt Geddie
"Find someone who can help you with it. Have somebody hold you accountable." – Dr. Matt Geddie
"The best time to start was yesterday. Can’t do that. So the best time to start is today." – Dr. Matt Geddie
"How do you prepare responsibly for tomorrow without missing the life that's happening today?" – Dr. Toby Brooks
"Life gets in the way, but it doesn't ruin a financial plan if you know what to do with it." – Dr. Matt Geddie

Resources

Connect with Dr. Matt Geddie on LinkedIn
Visit Change8 for more about navigating retirement transitions: Change8 on Skoool (School.com)
Explore more episodes at Undone Podcast

This discussion underscores the importance of strategic financial planning and its impact on personal freedom and life satisfaction. Tune into the full episode for more insightful strategies on financial independence and purposeful living, and stay connected for more transformative content on Becoming UnDone.

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Hayden Hajdu | From Stardom to Solitude: A Journey Through Music and Recovery | 163 Aug 17, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Hayden Hajdu is a talented vocalist known for his evocative blue-eyed soul style, often compared to legendary figures like Brian McKnight. In the early 1990s, Hayden was signed to BIV 10 Records, a promising label headed by Michael Bivins of Bell Biv DeVoe. Despite crafting a completed album, industry shifts left his music unreleased, pushing Hayden to navigate the challenging terrain of the music business. He later joined the group Sygnature, signing with Columbia Records and continued his musical path. Beyond music, Hayden has undergone personal transformations, grappling with and overcoming addiction, and finding grounding in his Christian faith.

Episode Summary

Join Dr. Toby Brooks in an engaging episode of Becoming UnDone, featuring Hayden Hajdu, a vocalist with a vibrant past in the music industry. Formerly associated with BIV 10 Records, Hayden shares his candid story of high hopes, unexpected setbacks, and eventual triumph over personal battles, highlighting his journey from potential stardom to finding peace and purpose beyond the music scene.

In this episode, Hayden reflects on his youth, ambitions, and the fateful meeting with Michael Bivins which led to a record deal. Despite a completed album and promising collaborations, industry changes halted his rise, teaching him resilience. SEO keywords like "BIV 10 Records," "Michael Bivins," "Hayden Hajdu," and "blue-eyed soul" recur as Hayden details navigating these trials, having embraced new chapters in life enriched by faith, family, and sobriety.

Key Takeaways

Unexpected Industry Changes: Hayden shares how unforeseen changes in the music industry affected his career trajectory and personal growth.
Managing Identity: He discusses his early reliance on external validation and how shifting away from music helped redefine his identity.
Overcoming Challenges: Hayden candidly talks about his battles with addiction and how finding faith was pivotal in his recovery.
The Impact of Family: Family life and fatherhood reshaped Hayden's aspirations, emphasizing a life beyond career success.
Redemption and Faith: Embracing Christianity and surrendering personal will allowed Hayden to find true peace and purpose beyond fame.

Notable Quotes

"My identity was in other people's opinions and approval of me."
"I was born with, I think, a gene…alcohol was always something that I think affected me differently."
"It's funny…I never asked God to take away my addiction because I was scared that he was going to."
"God had taken my broken pieces, but he has formed me in the identity of who he is."
"Now my life is just…defined by what Christ wants, and right now, I feel like I'm in the place where I should be."

Resources

Sygnature Album: Available on iTunes, featuring engaging tracks from Hayden's group.
YouTube: Search "Hayden Hajdu" for various music clips and personal recordings.
BIV 10 Records: Learn more about the iconic label started by Michael Bivins.
Dave Holmes' Podcast: "Waiting for Impact" details the fascinating stories of artists from the BIV 10 stable.

Explore the journey of transformation and resilience as shared by Hayden Hajdu, where musical dreams converge with life's lessons. Tune in to this episode of Becoming UnDone for more enlightening narratives, and stay poised for future episodes that dive deep into the lives of high achievers who have mastered the art of rebounding.

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Darryl Strawberry: From Baseball Greatness to Personal Redemption Journey | 162 Jul 20, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Darryl Strawberry is a renowned former Major League Baseball (MLB) player, best known for his incredible talent and remarkable achievements on the baseball field. He was the first overall pick in the Major League Baseball draft in 1980 and became an eight-time MLB All-Star and a four-time World Series champion. Despite his on-field success, Strawberry faced numerous personal challenges including addiction and legal issues. Today, alongside his wife Tracy, he leads Strawberry Ministries, focusing on faith, recovery, and hope, dedicating his life to encouraging others through their struggles.

Episode Summary

In this emotionally compelling episode of Becoming UnDone, Dr. Toby Brooks converses with MLB legend Darryl Strawberry about his extraordinary life and career. This candid discussion dives deep into Strawberry's tumultuous yet inspiring journey—from his rise as an iconic baseball player to his struggles with addiction, broken relationships, and personal redemption. Through a tapestry of storytelling, Dr. Brooks and Strawberry explore the important themes of identity, purpose, and personal transformation. Strawberry poignantly shares how the challenges he faced off the field led to his ultimate redemption and how he now uses his platform to spread a message of hope and recovery through his ministry work.

The episode illuminates the dichotomy between fame and personal fulfillment, highlighting the pitfalls that can accompany success. It underscores the resilience required to address deep emotional wounds and the importance of self-forgiveness and reconciliation. Featuring impactful lessons and inspiring anecdotes, this conversation delves into the complexities of the human condition, illustrating how it is never too late to pivot towards a renewed life. Through the lens of Darryl Strawberry's life, the episode tackles universal themes of pain as a motivator, the search for identity beyond one's career, and the power of faith in achieving true healing and redemption.

Key Takeaways

The Role of Pain in Success: Darryl discusses how his painful childhood motivated him to achieve greatness in baseball but also served as a reminder that true healing was necessary beyond professional success.
Identity Crisis: Success can change circumstances, but self-identity remains an enduring quest, impacting one’s ability to internalize happiness.
Journey from Destruction to Redemption: Darryl's transformative journey reveals that personal trials, while challenging, are part of the path to redemption and service through faith.
Importance of Forgiveness: Self-forgiveness and reconciliation with those affected by one's actions are crucial steps in overcoming past mistakes and finding peace.
Faith and Purpose: Despite setbacks, embracing faith and purpose beyond one's career can lead to profound personal change and impactful contributions to others' lives.

Notable Quotes

"My pain led me to my greatness. But my greatness would eventually lead me to my destructive behavior."
"Behind all the home runs and the championships…was a young man still carrying the pain of a violent and dysfunctional childhood."
"No one is too far gone where God cannot reach you because he created you."
"You never know what the miracle could be on the other side…I didn't give up."
"I've been redeemed…I'm not who I used to be."

Resources

Darryl Strawberry's Instagram: @darrylstrawberry18
Strawberry Ministries: strawberryministries.org
Podcast Episode: undonepodcast.com/ep162

Listeners are encouraged to dive into the full episode to hear more of Darryl Strawberry’s insights and transformative journey. Stay tuned for more conversations and inspirational stories on Becoming UnDone.

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161 | Navigating Burnout and Career Identity in Athletic Training with Dr. Shelby Daly Jul 08, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Dr. Shelby Daly is an accomplished leader in the field of sports medicine with a Doctorate in Athletic Training, specializing in leadership, entrepreneurship, and globalization. She hosts the To the Bone Sports Medicine Podcast, where she discusses topics crucial to athletic trainers and sports medicine professionals. Dr. Daly is recognized for her insightful commentary on leadership, burnout, and professional identity within the athletic training field.

Dr. Toby Brooks is a speaker, author, and professor who hosts the Becoming UnDone® podcast. With a rich background as an athletic trainer and strength coach in professional, collegiate, and high school sports settings, Dr. Brooks explores what distinguishes high achievers and how failures metamorphose into opportunities. His insights into athletic training, leadership, and performance science have become a valuable resource for professionals seeking practical growth strategies.

Episode Summary

In this unique crossover episode of Becoming UnDone® and To the Bone Sports Medicine Podcast, hosts Dr. Toby Brooks and Dr. Shelby Daly engage in a candid discussion on the undercurrents of athletic training and sports medicine. They navigate through the complexities of professional burnout, leadership challenges, and the value exchanges within the athletic training profession. Both bring their extensive experience to the table, questioning why the system often demands more than it offers back. These captivating themes resonate well beyond athletics, touching on organizational and personal growth.

In a conversation filled with laughter yet bearing an urgent undertone, Brooks and Daly delve into the current model of athletic training, exploring how its cultural demands impact practitioners. Topics like education investment vs. salary returns, the future of athletic training, and the potential benefits of niche specialization are scrutinized. This episode isn't just a critique; it's a call to action for sustainability and value recognition in sports medicine. Highlighting shared experiences and innovative solutions, Brooks and Daly shed light on the ways athletic trainers can foster healthier work environments where their contributions are appropriately acknowledged and compensated.

Key Takeaways

Professional Burnout and Sustainability: Dr. Shelby Daly and Dr. Toby Brooks discuss the critical issue of burnout in athletic training, emphasizing the necessity for sustainable practices that reciprocate the value trainers provide.
Education vs. Compensation: Insight into the disparity between the educational investments made by athletic trainers and the financial returns they receive, highlighting a need for revised compensation models.
Cultural Challenges: Exploration of the expectation culture in athletic training that values availability over actual performance and how it affects professional identity and burnout.
Positive Narratives and Solutions: Both hosts advocate for apt measures to be recognized and rewarded beyond the traditional norms, focusing on performance metrics and specialized credentials.
Networking and Partnerships: They underscore the importance of building professional networks and partnerships to create broader opportunities and innovate within the sports medicine landscape.

Notable Quotes

"When do I get to be given to?" - Dr. Shelby Daly, highlighting the imbalance in professional demands vs. returns.
"We can't keep confusing availability with value, exhaustion with commitment, or low compensation with loyalty." - Dr. Toby Brooks, on the need for systemic changes in athletic training.
"How liberating would it be to be able to just tell people to do their job?" - Dr. Toby Brooks, exploring authentic leadership styles in athletics.
"This identity that we've built up that we always have to be available is where we are stabbing ourselves in the back." - Dr. Shelby Daly, discussing the cultural expectations in athletic training.
"The truth is somewhere in the tension between those two things." - Dr. Toby Brooks, on balancing critique with constructive change.

Resources

To the Bone Sports Medicine Podcast by Dr. Shelby Daly: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
Becoming UnDone® Podcast by Dr. Toby Brooks: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms.
LinkedIn: Dr. Shelby Daly - LinkedIn for professional insights and discussions.
LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook: Dr. Toby Brooks - Connect for updates and professional discourse.

Join Dr. Shelby Daly and Dr. Toby Brooks as they peel back the layers of athletic training's most pressing issues, offering both a critical eye and a hopeful exploration of what it means to thrive in the profession. Listen to the full episode for a deeper dive into sustainable practices and innovative solutions for athletic trainers and sports medicine professionals. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions from both To the Bone and Becoming UnDone®.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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Dr. Tyler Lesher | Living the Dream, Working with NBA Stars, and Building a Brand on Your Terms | 160 Jun 22, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Dr. Tyler Lesher is an accomplished NBA performance therapist and former athletic trainer. With a diverse background that spans working with elite teams like the Cavaliers, Hornets, and UCLA, Tyler's experience in athletic performance and sports medicine is extensive. He has been involved in developing high-performance training regimens for athletes across various levels and sports, leveraging his expertise to also build a substantial online presence and business. Tyler's transition from his traditional role into a more entrepreneurial space is a testament to his innovative approach and dedication to the industry.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone , host Dr. Toby Brooks engages with Dr. Tyler Lesher, a renowned NBA performance therapist, to explore his extraordinary career path and personal growth in the field of athletic training. Tyler recounts his journey from humble beginnings in Wyoming to working with world-class athletes at the pinnacle of professional sports. His narrative unveils the passion and perseverance that have shaped his professional trajectory, moving through network connections, leveraging opportunities, and strategically transitioning from sports team roles to developing his own enterprise and social media presence.

The episode delves into Tyler's insights on the challenges and opportunities within athletic training. He boldly highlights systemic issues in the industry, such as undercompensation and limited recognition, and underscores the value of side hustles and self-marketing as crucial tools for career sustainability and growth. Tyler also shares candid moments from his personal life that have informed his resilience and dedication. His story illustrates the often complex blend of identity, professional aspirations, and personal evolution.

Key Takeaways

Leveraging Networks: Tyler's career trajectory exemplifies the importance of building robust professional networks, which can open doors to unforeseen opportunities.
Industry Challenges: The talk highlights systemic issues in athletic training like low pay and high demands, challenging aspiring professionals to think creatively about circumventing these hurdles.
Value of Social Media: Emphasizing that social media isn't just recreational but a potent professional tool. It can effectively function as a modern resume, enhancing visibility and career prospects.
The Power of Reinvention: Tyler showcases how embracing change and being willing to pivot professionally can lead to fulfilling work and personal growth.
Mental Resilience: Sharing his personal losses, Tyler underscores the vital role of resilience and personal health in navigating challenging professional and personal landscapes.

Notable Quotes

"Have you ever noticed that some of life's biggest transitions don't happen because we failed? Sometimes they happen because we succeed." - Dr. Toby Brooks
"You need to have your own side hustle, your job is not enough." - Dr. Tyler Lesher
"This was always the goal from the beginning." - Dr. Tyler Lesher
"Life doesn't stop, business doesn't stop, sports don't stop." - Dr. Tyler Lesher

Resources

Dr. Tyler Lesher on Instagram: Dr. T. Lesh
Advanced Rehab Certification: ARC Website
Connect with Dr. Toby Brooks on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn: @DrTobyBrooks
Science of the Comeback

Listeners are encouraged to immerse themselves in this thought-provoking episode that navigates the intersection of professional ambition and personal revelation. Join in to glean insights from Tyler's experiences and discover how steadfast resilience and proactive reinvention can illuminate new paths to success. Stay tuned for more transformative discussions on Becoming Undone.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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159 | The Art of Discipline: Dre Baldwin’s Blueprint for Success Jun 16, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Dre Baldwin, also known as Dre All Day, is a former professional basketball player turned entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker. With a nine-year career in professional basketball, Dre has transitioned into a highly influential voice in mindset development, discipline, and mental toughness. He is the founder of “Work on Your Game,” a company providing tools and techniques for personal development and success. Dre has authored several books and conducts workshops focusing on confidence-building, entrepreneurial pursuits, and performance improvement.

Episode Summary

In this insightful episode of Becoming UnDone® with host Toby Brooks, former professional basketball player Dre Baldwin shares his extraordinary journey from an overlooked high school athlete to a successful nine-year professional basketball career. Dre explains the drive and discipline needed to achieve his childhood dream of playing at a professional level despite facing numerous challenges. This episode offers an in-depth look at how Dre transitioned from being an athlete to establishing himself as an entrepreneur, leveraging his sports discipline to succeed in the business world.

Dre delves into the mindset and execution strategies that underpin his philosophy, articulated through his company "Work on Your Game." Drawing parallels between his sports career and entrepreneurial ventures, Dre discusses the importance of discipline, mental toughness, and personal initiative in achieving long-term success. He emphasizes the power of building confidence through consistent effort and dedication, stating, "When you don't want to do the work anymore… you stop feeling the sense of loss when you're not doing it, you know it's time to transition." This episode is not only an engaging story of persistence and transformation but also an inspirational guide to developing a future-ready mindset.

Key Takeaways

Pivot with Purpose: Dre Baldwin effectively demonstrates how one can prepare for and transition to a new career while still thriving in a current one.
Discipline Over Confidence: Baldwin emphasizes that discipline is a precursor to confidence, dispelling the myth that confidence is the starting point of success.
Embracing Change: Instead of fearing change, Dre sees it as a vital component of growth and encourages others to prepare themselves for eventual transitions.
Resources in Rejection: Dre discusses how initial setbacks with basketball teams fueled his drive, shaping his future in both athletics and entrepreneurship.
Mentorship Matters: By implementing advice from mentors and gaining results, Dre illustrates the importance of being proactive in personal and professional development.

Notable Quotes

"When you don't want to do the work anymore… you stop feeling the sense of loss when you're not doing it, you know it's time to transition."
"Confidence is often the result of action, not the prerequisite for it."
"Discipline is not a personality trait. It's a behavior descriptor of action."
"You can like LeBron, but you cannot relate to LeBron."
"When you did what I told you to do… that validated that the information I was giving out wasn't useless."

Resources

Dre Baldwin's Company: Work on Your Game
Dre Baldwin on Social Media: Dre All Day
Books Mentioned:
"Rich Dad, Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki
"Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill
Host Toby Brooks' Socials: Toby Brooks, PhD on Linktree

Immerse yourself in this episode to uncover more about Dre Baldwin's journey and gain insight into the intricacies of transitioning careers while maximizing personal growth and discipline. Stay tuned for future episodes bringing you more transformative stories and powerful insights.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

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158 | Unravel Your Guilt: The Hidden Power of Embracing the Fourth Quarter: W3W Jun 05, 2026

Show notes

About the Host

Dr. Toby Brooks is a renowned professor, author, speaker, and performance scientist with over 20 years of experience as an athletic trainer and strength coach, spanning professional, college, and high school levels. His current focus lies in studying high achievers, understanding their unique attributes, and how setbacks can be transformed into success. As the host of the podcast Becoming UnDone® , Toby shares insights and lessons from his extensive career, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of personal growth and achievement.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone® , Dr. Toby Brooks dives into the metaphor of the fourth quarter, drawing insights from both his personal experiences and a well-known parable. With a focus on understanding the importance of perseverance and recognizing growth opportunities, Toby offers a fresh perspective on the inherent guilt and responsibility often felt by coaches, mentors, and leaders when their efforts don't yield visible results. He recounts a conversation with Chris McCormick, a former Division 1 strength coach turned pastor, whose words on pressure and formation have continuously influenced Toby's outlook on personal and professional growth.

The podcast delves into the Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13, reflecting on how the farmer's lack of concern over unsuccessful seeds imparts a vital lesson on recognizing where true responsibility lies. Toby eloquently discusses how leaders shouldn't feel burdened by outcomes they can't control and highlights the significance of focusing efforts on those ready to accept change, termed as the "fourth quarter" in this context. Listeners are encouraged to recognize their own fruitful engagements, celebrate their impact, and let go of frustration over the seeds that don't take root.

Key Takeaways

Leaders should focus on their "fourth quarter," celebrating the growth and success of those ready to accept change.
The Parable of the Sower serves as an essential metaphor, illustrating how results often are beyond one's control.
Emotional resilience in leadership is vital, as individuals aren't responsible for outcomes when readiness isn't present.
Continuous self-assessment and reflection can help redirect efforts towards areas where growth is possible.
Trusting the process and letting go of the results frees leaders from unnecessary guilt and empowers persistence.

Notable Quotes

"Pressure's gonna expose what's forming."
"The farmer isn't in therapy over the rocky ground."
"Some soil just isn't meant for us."
"The harvest isn't there. My harvest is in the fourth quarter."
"Stop measuring your success by the first three quarters and start celebrating the heck out of your fourth."

Resources

Dr. Toby Brooks' website: tobybrooksphd.com
Chris McCormick, pastor at Reliant Church
"State of Your Life" survey available at Toby Brooks’ website
Upcoming guest Dre Baldwin's achievements and works

Listen to this thought-provoking episode to gain insightful perspectives on leadership, growth, and the importance of identifying and celebrating your own "fourth quarter." Stay tuned to Becoming UnDone® for more compelling discussions and expert guests.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

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