Mar 04 2025 70 mins
In today's episode, we sit down with Mikel Thomas, a three-time Olympian whose journey is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. From his humble beginnings in Trinidad and Tobago to the global stage of the Olympics, Mikel's story is one of triumph over adversity, both on and off the track. He opens up about the pressures of living up to expectations, the physical and emotional toll of injuries, and how he found the strength to keep pushing forward. But this isn’t just a story about sports—it’s about life, community, and the power of perseverance. Whether you’re an athlete, a professional navigating a career transition, or someone searching for purpose, Mikel’s insights will leave you inspired to embrace challenges and redefine what success means to you.
What We Discussed:
- Mikel’s early days in Trinidad and Tobago, where his love for sports first took root and set him on the path to becoming an Olympian.
- The intense pressure and expectations he faced after his Olympic debut, and how he learned to navigate the weight of external validation.
- The physical and mental challenges of overcoming career-threatening injuries, and the lessons he learned about resilience and adaptability.
- The importance of building a strong support system and surrounding yourself with the right community to help you through tough times.
- Mikel’s advocacy for mental health awareness in the sports world, and why he believes it’s crucial to address the emotional struggles athletes often face.
- How he’s using his platform to champion athletes’ rights and create supportive frameworks for life beyond sports.
- The pivotal moments that shaped his personal and professional growth, and how he approaches transitions without losing focus.
- Practical advice for anyone looking to redefine success, find clarity in their career path, and embrace the idea of a “second wind.”
This episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and actionable takeaways for anyone looking to push through challenges and find their own path to purpose. Tune in and let Mikel’s story remind you that setbacks are just setups for comebacks.
Resources Mentioned:
- Connect with Mikel:
- LinkedIn: Mikel K. Thomas, OLY
- Looking for Career Clarity for your next step? For more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io