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

Latest Episodes:

157 | Finding Identity Beyond Achievement: Courtney Beck Dreams Big, Goes Bold May 17, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Courtney Beck is a former elite gymnast and NCAA All-American at the University of Florida, where she was a part of two SEC championship teams. A high achiever in academics as well, she has earned multiple master's degrees and a PhD in sport management. In addition to her impressive athletic and academic achievements, Courtney is a corporate leader and founder of the "Plenty of Positivity" podcast. Currently, she serves as an adjunct professor and is an esteemed voice on positivity and resilience, focusing on community building and personal development.

Episode Summary

In this illuminating episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks engages with Dr. Courtney Beck, who shares her remarkable journey from elite gymnastics to academia and entrepreneurship. Courtney opens with her initial foray back into gymnastics after a three-year break, recalling how her resilience and determination enabled her to walk on to the University of Florida's gymnastics team. This transformative experience set the foundation for her fearless approach to life. The discussion ventures into her post-athletic career, shedding light on Courtney's struggles and eventual triumphs as she navigated identity shifts and new opportunities.

As the episode unfolds, Courtney delves into how she transitioned from a structured, perfection-driven athletic identity to master the realm of business, academia, and eventually, social entrepreneurship. She speaks candidly about the importance of continuous learning and setting intentions that align with one's inner values. Courtney introduces her concept of positivity, advocating for choosing a positive mindset every day, while acknowledging life’s challenges and setbacks. This conversation is an inspiring testament to how embracing the unseen moments of struggle and growth can lead to new beginnings that better align with one’s true self.

Key Takeaways

Fearlessness and Boldness: Emphasizing the importance of taking the first step, no matter how intimidating, can lead to valuable life lessons and personal growth.
Transitioning Identities: Successfully navigating the shift from athlete to professional requires accepting change and finding new purposes.
Building a Positive Mindset: Real, impactful positivity starts with acknowledging life's challenges and choosing how to respond to them every day.
Evolving Through Challenges: Courtney’s journey shows how vulnerability and resilience in the face of challenges can open the door to new, fulfilling paths.
Community and Connection: Creating supportive environments and networks is crucial for personal development and overcoming isolation, as demonstrated by Courtney's initiatives.

Notable Quotes

"Never be afraid to take that first step. And if it was not for her allowing me to walk onto that team, I don't quite know if I would have that sense of fearlessness."
"I'm Courtney Beck, and I am Undone."
"I was out, I was holding on to how do I still pull the quote, exercise as my form of gymnastics and sense of sport into it."
"Let go of that ego, letting go of all the titles when I would introduce myself but feeling comfortable in the unknown."
"The whole concept behind Plenty of Positivity was…every story I was reading was sheer negativity."

Resources

Courtney Beck on LinkedIn: Courtney Beck
Plenty of Positivity Podcast: Courtney's Podcast Website

Dive into this episode for a deep understanding of how Courtney Beck's story exemplifies resilience and positivity, offering insights that inspire transformation. Stay tuned for more enriching content from Becoming UnDone®.

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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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156 | The Concussion That Changed Everything: Dr. Shawn Eagle's Path to Purpose May 03, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Dr. Shawn Eagle is an assistant professor in the Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh, where he is regarded as a global expert on concussion and traumatic brain injury. With more than 150 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Eagle’s work has significantly influenced how concussion and brain injuries are understood, treated, and recovered from. His journey from a collegiate athlete suffering injuries to a prominent researcher underscores his dedication to improving athletes' lives and health outcomes through cutting-edge research.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone® , Dr. Shawn Eagle joins host Toby Brooks to discuss the intricate journey from athlete to renowned concussion expert. Dr. Eagle candidly recounts his own experiences with sports injuries during his undergraduate years and how they inadvertently steered him toward a groundbreaking career in traumatic brain injury research. His story is a testament to resilience, underscoring significant themes of identity, failure, and ultimately redemption. The conversation delves into the science behind concussion and how modern treatments have evolved to provide more effective recovery pathways.

The episode also highlights the importance of understanding the long-term effects of concussions, particularly in athletes, and how early interventions can make a significant difference. This informative dialogue not only sheds light on critical advancements in concussion research but also serves as an inspiration for those grappling with personal and professional setbacks. Toby Brooks and Dr. Eagle reflect on personal growth, the power of perseverance, and the evolving landscape of sports medicine, attracting listeners interested in sports science, personal development, and medical innovation.

Key Takeaways

Personal experiences with injuries can pave the way for future professional paths, as demonstrated by Dr. Eagle’s shift from athlete to researcher.
Modern concussion treatment emphasizes immediate activity and symptom monitoring, moving away from outdated practices like prolonged rest in dark rooms.
Athletic trainers play a critical role in concussion management due to their proximity and understanding of athletes' baseline behaviors.
CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) narratives often overshadow the treatability and hope associated with concussions.
Resilience and adaptability are vital, as illustrated by Dr. Eagle's career journey and dedication to advancing science in traumatic brain injuries.

Notable Quotes

"I think this is a big part why I'm so passionate about the CTE side of things; I don't know what I would be without football."
"I want people to understand that the brain is plastic and will respond and can respond."
"Athletic trainers are kind of perfectly trained to manage concussion in the modern understanding…"
"For Sean, it wasn't just an injury. It was confusion, anxiety, a sense that something wasn't right."
"The very thing that could have been the end of his story as an athlete became the beginning of his purpose."

Resources

University of Pittsburgh, Department of Neurological Surgery
Dr. Shawn Eagle on LinkedIn

Dive into this enlightening episode to explore how overcoming setbacks can lead to profound personal and professional transformation. Stay tuned for more compelling content from Becoming UnDone®.

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155 | Transforming Trials into Triumphs: US Olympian Sarah Warren's Journey to Becoming Undone Apr 26, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Sarah Warren is a U.S. Olympic speed skater who competed in the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games. Before embarking on her skating career, Sarah was a Division 1 soccer player at the University of Illinois. Her journey to the Olympics was marked by resilience and determination, overcoming ten surgeries, including multiple ACL surgeries. Beyond her athletic endeavors, Sarah has aspirations of becoming an orthopedic surgeon, inspired by the impact of her own medical experiences.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks delves into the inspiring journey of U.S. Olympian Sarah Warren. Known for her exceptional speed skating prowess, Sarah's path to the pinnacle of Olympic success was set against a backdrop of considerable adversity. From her beginnings as a Division 1 soccer player to overcoming significant physical challenges, including ten surgeries, Sarah's story is a testament to resilience, community support, and finding strength amid setbacks. Sarah articulates how her journey through pain and doubt shaped her identity and spurred her toward her Olympic dreams, painting a vivid picture of personal growth and grit.

Throughout the episode, Toby and Sarah explore the importance of mindset and community in overcoming challenges. As Sarah shares candid moments from her recovery and training, listeners gain insights into the mental fortitude required to navigate high-stakes sports amid injuries. The conversation also highlights Sarah's future aspirations in orthopedic surgery, drawing a parallel between her sports achievements and her professional goals. As Toby unpacks Sarah's narrative, key themes surface around resilience, positivity, and the transformative power of adversity—making this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking motivation or a deeper understanding of what it takes to triumph against the odds.

Key Takeaways

Resilience in Adversity: Sarah Warren's story underscores the power of mental toughness and persistence in overcoming physical injuries and challenges in sports.
Community Support: The role of family, friends, and community is crucial in navigating and rising above setbacks, providing a support system that contributes significantly to success.
Finding Purpose in Adversity: Challenges and setbacks can serve as opportunities for growth, shaping one's identity and future aspirations.
Mindset is Key: Approaching challenges with a positive, solution-focused mindset can lead to breakthroughs in both performance and personal development.
Career Transitions: Sarah's transition from competitive sports to her aspirations in orthopedic surgery illustrates the alignment of personal experiences with future professional goals.

Notable Quotes

"I got humbled with that first ACL. It was not a typical ACL… And that it was my worst fear."
"The Olympic dream was very alive for four and a half years and about for a month and a half, it almost died."
"It's hard. It is very tempting to not want to be a bother… But honestly, no matter what, whether you achieve the goals that you initially set out or not."
"It's very easy to look at destination. But no matter what, if you're working through that journey and you work through those challenges, you have proven to yourself."
"If you don't see a light at the end of the tunnel, it's possible. And if that means one athlete believes in themselves again."

Resources

Follow Sarah Warren on her journey on Instagram.
Learn more about the podcast, Becoming UnDone®, at undonepodcast.com.
Listen to previous episodes featuring other high-achievers in sports and performance.

Embark on this engaging episode as Sarah Warren shares he

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154 | Courageous Career Changes: Embracing Uncertainty and New Beginnings with Pastor & Coach Chris McCormick Apr 12, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Chris McCormick is a former Division 1 strength and conditioning coach who worked at Gardner-Webb University and Florida Atlantic University. Throughout his career, he played a crucial role in athlete preparation and development, initially with aspirations of ascending to an Athletic Director role. However, McCormick's journey took an unexpected turn when he transitioned from collegiate sports to full-time ministry. Today, he serves as the lead pastor at Reliant Church, passionately investing in spiritual growth and fostering community, leveraging his strengths as a coach to guide his congregation.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks delves into the transformative journey of Chris McCormick, a former Division 1 strength and conditioning coach who transitioned into ministry. The conversation opens up with Chris's journey of how he achieved his dream job but found himself disillusioned and striving for more fulfillment. Brooks and McCormick explore how pivotal experiences, such as family commitments and community engagements, guided Chris toward a spiritual calling, eventually leading him to become the lead pastor at Reliant Church.

Throughout the episode, themes of identity and purpose take center stage. McCormick shares intimate reflections on the pressures and expectations that come with high-performance roles in sports, shining a light on burnout and the internal struggle of aligning personal values with professional aspirations. He candidly discusses the crossroads he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it steered him toward a path of church planting and community leadership. The adaptation from cultivating physical strength to nurturing spiritual growth highlights Chris's inspiring pivot and the newfound significance he finds in pastoral work.

Key Takeaways

Identity beyond profession: Chris McCormick illustrates the challenge of disentangling personal identity from professional roles, learning through his journey that he was not defined by his position as a coach.
Navigating career transitions: The episode explores the emotional and spiritual journey of pivoting from a career in collegiate sports to pursuing full-time ministry, driven by a deeper purpose.
The impact of burnout: Reflecting on his path, McCormick discusses how burnout and pressures in his former roles demanded careful evaluation and ultimately, a career shift.
The essence of adaptability: Chris's journey highlights adaptability and resilience, showing how skills accrued in one profession can fuel success in another.
Purposeful living: Emphasizing his faith journey, McCormick inspires listeners with the message that profound change is possible when following a higher calling.

Notable Quotes

"Gardner-Webb was like everything I ever wanted in a job. And it was like it wasn't what I wanted it to be."
"Pressure is going to essentially expose what's forming you. And once we figure that out, it might be a good thing or a bad thing."
"There was such an excitement about this new venture jumping out."
"If you don't love every single thing about it, you will get swallowed up."
"You are not your job, and you will be replaced in a heartbeat if you think you're more important than you really are."

Resources:

Reliant Church
Chris McCormick on LinkedIn

This insightful episode of Becoming UnDone® with Chris McCormick offers a unique perspective on navigating life's unexpected turns and finding fulfillment beyond conventional success metrics. Tune in to hear the full conversation and stay engaged for more episodes that dive deep into the transformative stories of high achievers.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

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153 | Matt Sayman's Journey from Baylor Basketball Scandal to Redemption Mar 29, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Matt Sayman is the head boys basketball coach at Midway High School in Waco, Texas, and a former professional basketball player in Iceland. Previously, he played collegiate basketball at Baylor University during one of its most tumultuous periods, amidst a major scandal. He is the author of "The Leftovers: Baylor, Betrayal, and Beyond," which chronicles his experiences during this challenging period. Additionally, Sayman was a Division 1 athlete who played a significant role in the challenging 2003-2004 Baylor basketball season.

Episode Summary

Join Toby Brooks in this episode of Becoming UnDone® as he sits down with Matt Sayman, a former Baylor University basketball player, who shares his journey through adversity, basketball, and faith. Matt recounts his experiences at Baylor during the 2003 basketball scandal, capturing the trials and tribulations that unfolded when his dream almost fell apart. Alongside his personal narrative, Matt reflects on the profound influence of Coach Scott Drew, who took over the Baylor program amidst chaos and laid the foundation for future success, leading the team to a national championship in 2021.

Delving into Matt's personal transformation, this episode explores his struggles with identity, the temptations of a partying lifestyle during his senior year, and the pivotal moments that prompted a shift towards a more purposeful and faith-guided path. Sayman candidly discusses his transition from a collegiate athlete to professional sports, the challenges encountered along the way, and the eventual pivot to a coaching career. This episode not only highlights Sayman’s resilience but also underscores the role of unwavering faith and supportive relationships in navigating life's tumultuous seasons. As listeners follow his remarkable journey, they are encouraged to reflect on their own moments of becoming undone and rebuilding stronger.

Key Takeaways

Matt Sayman recounts how his family's decision to move to Texas significantly impacted his path to becoming a Division 1 basketball player at Baylor University.
The 2003-2004 Baylor basketball season was plagued by turmoil, including a murder scandal and NCAA sanctions, which tested Sayman's identity and resilience.
Coach Scott Drew's positive culture and belief in a championship future had a significant impact on the Baylor basketball program despite initial skepticism.
Sayman's post-basketball struggles with identity and faith are depicted, illustrating how he overcame personal challenges and rediscovered his purpose.
The episode underscores the importance of perseverance, faith, and support systems in overcoming life's adversities and laying the foundation for future success.

Notable Quotes

"I just really wanted, I think, to go somewhere that I was wanted." – Matt Sayman reflects on choosing Baylor University.
"Wanted to get out of there. Matt Saman here. And I am undone." – Matt Sayman on feeling lost after the scandal rocked Baylor.
"You know, it is March Madness time… it's still a special, it's the most special sporting event to me." – Matt Sayman sharing his passion for March Madness.
"We love stories about championships… But what we don't see is what comes before all of that." – Toby Brooks on building towards success.
"For years after that, my senior year, I thought nobody cared." – Matt Sayman reflecting on the impact of his senior season years later.

Resources

Matt Sayman's Book: "The Leftovers: Ba

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

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152 | Navigating Grief and Identity After Life's Unexpected Changes with Sports Chaplain Roger Lipe Mar 21, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Roger Lipe is a seasoned sports chaplain and ministry leader with over 30 years of experience, primarily working with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale. Throughout his career, he has dedicated his life to providing pastoral care and guidance to athletes, coaches, and sports teams, assisting them through both triumphs and challenges. Recently, after a series of personal trials and the passing of his wife, Sharon, Roger has stepped into a new chapter of his life, focusing on mentoring and supporting leaders in the sports and sports ministry landscape.

Episode Summary

In this poignant episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks welcomes back Roger Lipe, marking him as the first repeat guest on the show. Roger opens up about a life-changing text message that set into motion a whirlwind of events, including his wife's battle with cancer, his decision to retire early, and their subsequent move to be closer to family. Roger shares deeply personal insights into how these events reshaped his perspective on life, faith, and his identity beyond his career. With his characteristic humility and faithfulness, Roger reflects on themes of surrender, purpose, and the transformative power of love in the face of trials.

Throughout the episode, key topics include resilience, caregiving, and the journey from loss to finding new purpose. Roger Lipe speaks candidly about the vulnerability of feeling inadequate in caregiving roles, the importance of processing grief authentically, and the redefinition of intimacy and love in marriage. As he navigates through a season of immense change, he looks forward to his new mission of supporting and mentoring sports leaders. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own journeys and consider the courageous steps they can take when life becomes undone.

Key Takeaways

The Power of a Single Moment: A text message can alter life profoundly, setting one on an unforeseen path that tests resilience and faith.
Importance of Authentic Grief Processing: Avoiding the rush to return to normalcy and allowing oneself to fully grieve can lead to deeper healing and understanding.
Love and Caregiving: True love is embodied in selfless caregiving and maintaining dignity for loved ones during difficult times.
Identity beyond Career: Embracing one's identity in faith rather than career achievements can provide a steady foundation during life's upheavals.
Mentorship and Legacy: Transitioning into mentorship roles can help bridge the gap left by retiring leaders, preserving organizational values and history.

Notable Quotes

"The moment that changed everything and set the course of our lives was that text message."
"I can't control anything about this process. She doesn't need me to control it. So what can I do to serve my wife well?"
"Sharon had nothing to give, so it required me to give selflessly, to love extravagantly."
"I am always pleasing to him because of who Christ is in me. That's a big deal."
"True healing involves fully dealing with grief and all its challenges."

Resources

Roger Lipe's Website: rogerlipe.com
Contact Roger via email: roger@rogerlipe.com
Book: "The Rest of the Gospel"
Book: "Tired of Trying to Measure Up" by Jeff VanVondren

This episode of Becoming UnDone® with Roger Lipe offers profound insights into facing life’s unexpected challenges with courage and grace. Listen to the full episode and stay tuned for more transformative stories that inspire bravery, resilience, and purposeful living.

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151 | Breaking Free from Destination Addiction: Embrace the Present Moment Mar 06, 2026

Show notes

About the Host

Dr. Toby Brooks is a renowned professor, author, speaker, and performance scientist. With over two decades of experience working with elite athletes and high achievers, he specializes in performance psychology and resilience training. Dr. Brooks is the creator of the Science of the Comeback, an approach designed to help individuals navigate transitions and rebuild their identities after setbacks. He also hosts the podcast Becoming UnDone®, where he delves into the stories of individuals who have faced and overcome significant challenges.

Episode Summary

In this engaging episode of Becoming UnDone®, Dr. Toby Brooks reflects on the theme of Destination Addiction—the continual chase for the next milestone while missing the significance of the present. He shares a personal anecdote from a visit to an In N Out Burger, where he unexpectedly encountered the Lubbock Christian boys basketball team, involving a poignant moment of realization about enjoying the present. This story sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how we often tie our happiness to future achievements, neglecting the value of the current moment.

Dr. Brooks draws from his extensive experience with high achievers and athletes to underscore the universal tendency to focus on future accolades and achievements at the cost of missing the joy inherent in our current experiences. He articulates the dangers of defining one's identity based on outcomes and the importance of practicing last-night awareness to fully appreciate life's fleeting moments. Through the lens of performance science and personal anecdotes, this episode uncovers practical strategies to combat Destination Addiction and fosters a mindset that cherishes the journey as much as the destination.

Key Takeaways

Destination Addiction Defined: The episode explores the concept of Destination Addiction—pursuing future goals at the cost of appreciating the present.
The Value of Presence: Highlighting the importance of savoring current experiences instead of rushing toward the next big goal.
Rituals of Arrival: Dr. Brooks suggests creating 'arrival rituals' to adequately honor and celebrate achievements before moving forward.
Identity Beyond Outcomes: It's crucial to separate one's identity from successes or failures, focusing instead on consistent qualities like effort and integrity.
Practical Strategies: Implementing practical methods such as last-night awareness to ensure fully experiencing and valuing the present moment.

Notable Quotes

"Those are the moments that define us, not by just the collapse, but by what comes next."
"The weird thing is now I'm exactly where I want to be… I wish there was a way to know you're in the good old days before you've actually left them."
"If your first instinct after a win is to chase the next thing, you might be addicted to destinations."
"Ambition isn't the enemy, neither are growth or high performance. But when our peace is always postponed, trust me, that’s a problem."
"Resilience isn’t just about rising after we fall. It’s about not outrunning our own life in the first place."

Resources

Becoming UnDone® Podcast Website: undonepodcast.com
Science of the Comeback: scienceofthecomeback.com
Toby Brooks' Website: tobybrooksphd.com
Follow Toby Brooks on Instagram & Facebook: @TobyBrooks, Ph.D.

Dive into this episode for an insightful examination of how to overcome Destination Addiction and embrace the now. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from "Becoming Undone" as Toby Brooks continues to unpack valuable lessons in resilience and performance.

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150 | Vonn & Liu: Two Olympians, Two Comebacks. Grit Meets Freedom in Olympic Dreams Feb 22, 2026

Show notes

About the Host

Dr. Toby Brooks is the host of Becoming UnDone®, a podcast that delves into the stories of high achievers who have navigated failures and setbacks on their path to success. With a strong background in performance science, Brooks is dedicated to helping individuals rebuild their identities and develop resilience through his app, Science of the Comeback. He is also actively engaged in personal coaching and engaging keynote speaking, offering insights drawn from his own experiences and those of his podcast guests.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone®, Dr. Toby Brooks shares his personal journey and deep love for the Olympics, reflecting on seminal moments such as the 1992 Olympics Triplecast and the impact sports have on shaping ambition and dreams. Drawing a parallel between the challenges faced by Olympians and personal comebacks, Brooks delves into the stories of Lindsey Vonn and Alysa Liu, two athletes whose paths to the Winter Olympics were marked by profound comebacks that offer rich insights into the nature of resilience, grit, and the motivation behind elite performance.

Amidst a narrative of personal reflection and awe, Brooks examines how individuals like Lindsey Vonn exemplify relentless determination and grit, while Alysa Liu's journey is characterized by rediscovered joy and autonomy. By weaving their stories into the broader theme of becoming undone and then choosing a path towards reinvention, Brooks challenges listeners to question their own motivations. Highlighting the psychological differences in motivation, he presents a thought-provoking discourse on how one's purpose can redefine the journey of a comeback, urging listeners to reflect on their own narratives of achievement and identity.

Key Takeaways

The Power of Grit: The episode underscores how overcoming physical and emotional hurdles requires sheer determination, as shown by athletes like Lindsey Vonn.
Embracing Autonomy: Alysa Liu’s story highlights the importance of reclaiming joy and autonomy, presenting a comeback fueled by personal choice.
Identity and Purpose: Dr. Brooks discusses how high achievers often face identity foreclosure, where self-worth becomes narrowly tied to achievement.
Purpose-Driven Motivation: The episode explores how intrinsic motivation, driven by mastery and meaning, can lead to sustainable joy.
Reflective Growth: Listeners are encouraged to question their motivations for coming back from setbacks, emphasizing growth and self-discovery over external validation.

Notable Quotes

"Being great necessitates being unbalanced. You have to be unbalanced to find every bit of energy and strength that you have to pull it off." – David Goggins
"Because the medal wasn't the comeback, the ownership and the liberty was." – Dr. Toby Brooks
"Intrinsic motivation, on the other hand, is driven by autonomy and mastery and meaning." – Dr. Toby Brooks
"Grit without refined purpose can pretty easily become self-destruction." – Dr. Toby Brooks

Resources

Toby Brooks' website
Science of the Comeback app: scienceofthecomeback.com
Follow Becoming UnDone® on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn: @BecomingUndonePod
Follow Toby Brooks: @TobyBrooksPhD

For the full experience of this engaging discussion on resilience and the journey of becoming undone, listen to the complete episode. Stay tuned for more insightful content from "Becoming Undone" as Dr. Toby Brooks continues to explore the stories and lessons of high achievers.

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149 | Caught in the Spotlight: Secrets of a Celebrity Business Manager with Jonathan Schwartz Feb 14, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Jonathan Schwartz is a former top-tier entertainment business manager who was prominently recognized for managing the fortunes of A-list celebrity clients, including globally iconic artists like Beyonce, Alanis Morissette, and Mariah Carey. In his career pinnacle, he was deeply entrenched as a trusted advisor in rooms that many can only imagine. However, his life took a drastic turn when his gambling addiction and subsequent criminal activities resulted in a six-year federal prison sentence for embezzling millions. From that downfall, Jonathan has since rebuilt his life, becoming a marriage and family therapist specializing in addiction and trauma recovery. He aims to help others avoid the pitfalls that trapped him.

Episode Summary

In this compelling episode of Becoming UnDone®, Toby Brooks delves into the gripping and often heart-wrenching journey of Jonathan Schwartz, who once stood at the pinnacle of the entertainment business management world. Known for representing colossal talents like Alanis Morissette, Jonathan fell into the abyss of gambling and substance addiction, which led to embezzling millions from his clients and ultimately served six years in federal prison. In a barren landscape of broken trust and lost reputation, Jonathan has risen with a new mission: to aid others grappling with addiction. This poignant episode explores his descent, the salvation found in being caught, and the gradual yet profound rebuilding of his life.

Throughout the conversation, key themes of addiction, accountability, and redemption are interwoven with Jonathan’s stark honesty about his past misdeeds and his newfound purpose. Emphasizing the importance of humility and personal accountability, Jonathan shares insights into life behind bars, the struggle with familial guilt, and his ongoing efforts to mend his strained relationships—particularly with his children. As Jonathan reflects on his past, it becomes a powerful narrative about the opportunity for transformation within adversity, brought to life through six years behind bars and leading towards a vocation driven by empathy and healing.

Key Takeaways

Transformation from Adversity: Jonathan Schwartz’s story showcases how severe hardship can be a catalyst for profound personal change, redirecting life towards meaningful service to others.
Importance of Accountability: Jonathan emphasizes personal responsibility as a crucial element of genuine recovery and rebuilding relationships.
Gambling and Substance Addiction: The episode explores how Jonathan's unchecked gambling and substance use spiraled into major financial and personal losses but also acted as a unique opportunity for growth.
Role of Community in Healing: The significance of constructive community circles, personal support systems, and a healthy environment that fosters healing is highlighted.
Educational Pathway to Redemption: Post-incarceration, Jonathan pursued a career in therapy, focusing on addiction recovery, and underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in life.

Notable Quotes

"Ultimately, my higher power sent me a signal and he said, you need to go to addiction studies school, get your kdac, and then I want you to go to grad school and become a marriage and family therapist with an emphasis in addiction and trauma." – Jonathan Schwartz
"I don't live in my past, but I don't forget my past. And it was tough, it was really hard. But I'm not seeking empathy from others." – Jonathan Schwartz
"I needed to go to prison. I needed time to remove some of my defects of character, if you will, and start to learn who I really want to become as my authentic self." – Jonathan Schwartz
"Asking for help is an expression of courage and vulnerability. It's about taking personal accountability in our paths."

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148 | From Pro Athlete to CEO: The Science of Reinvention with Idris Haroon Feb 02, 2026

Show notes

About the Guest

Idris Haroon is a former professional football player who had a noteworthy journey through college and professional sports. He played as a defensive lineman at the University of Arizona and later in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Post his athletic career, Haroon transitioned into the business world, leveraging his leadership and teamwork skills to excel in corporate America. He now serves as an executive and entrepreneur, founding DWD Moving Services, a logistics company that specializes in niche markets like research lab and college coach relocations. As an advocate for resilience and adaptability, Haroon continues to inspire with his dedication to building businesses and leading teams.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone® Toby Brooks sits down with Idris Haroon to explore the transformative journey from college athlete to professional football player, and finally to a successful entrepreneur. Haroon shares his experiences at the University of Arizona, under the guidance of Coach Dick Tomey, and how Tomey's philosophies on team and leadership have continued to influence his life. Despite not making it to the NFL, Haroon's career in the CFL provided valuable life lessons that he later applied in the corporate and entrepreneurial realms. Through his company, DWD Moving Services, Haroon identifies niche opportunities and leads with a commitment to excellence and innovation.

The conversation delves deep into the life-changing moments Haroon experienced post-football, highlighting the resilience required to transition from sports to business. With insightful anecdotes, Haroon discusses the challenges of founding a logistics company, navigating personal and financial risks, and overcoming doubts. His unique approach to treating corporate America as his "NFL" showcases the importance of adaptability and the role that perseverance plays in achieving success beyond the field. Listeners will gain insight into Haroon's entrepreneurial spirit, his ability to turn setbacks into strategies, and how he champions others to redefine what it means to win.

Key Takeaways

Idris Haroon reveals how playing football taught him valuable leadership and teamwork skills which are transferable to any career, especially entrepreneurship.
The episode highlights Haroon's transition from professional sports to corporate America and his eventual step into entrepreneurship with DWD Moving Services.
Haroon underscores the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of setbacks, drawing on lessons learned under Coach Dick Tomey.
The discussion touches on the power of identifying niche markets within a saturated industry to achieve business success.
Haroon shares personal success strategies, emphasizing the significance of treating career transitions as new opportunities rather than endings.

Notable Quotes

"The beauty of having coaches in your life is you see great examples of leaders at a young age."
"Having multiple voices in your head is a healthy thing. You're not crazy."
"I'm going to treat the real world like it's my NFL."
"Once I was able to switch that mentality, it worked out for me."
"We made a business to build a legacy for our daughters."

Resources:

DWD Moving Services LinkedIn: Official company page for Haroon's logistics business.
Idris Haroon on LinkedIn

Tune in to the full episode to immerse yourself in Idris Haroon’s inspiring narrative on resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit. Stay connected with Becoming UnDone® for more insightful discussions on overcoming adversity and embracing growth.

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