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Winning Is A Muscle. Build It. | WNBA Legend Candace Parker

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Aug 2, 2025

Guest

Candace Parker

In a captivating discussion, WNBA legend Candace Parker shares her insights on the relentless pursuit of greatness. She reveals how winning shapes her worldview and identity, and delves into the emotional highs and lows of competition. Candace reflects on resilience, the importance of teamwork, and managing expectations in sports. Her journey also touches on parenting and the influence of literature, particularly 'The Alchemist,' in shaping her mindset. With her experience and wisdom, she inspires listeners to cultivate a winning mindset in all aspects of life.

01:11:38

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insights

INSIGHT

Choice in Becoming Great

You may not choose what you're great at, but you choose how good you become at it.
Mastery develops from consistent effort, like doing 100 shots a day in sports.

insights

INSIGHT

Sports' Clarity Vs. Life's Ambiguity

Sports have clear outcomes, making it hard to rationalize failure.
This sharp clarity contrasts with life's ambiguity, forcing honest self-assessment.

volunteer_activism

ADVICE

Balance Creativity and Winning

Play the creative game knowing the numbers matter.
Sometimes winning mainstream credibility is key to creative freedom later.

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The Pursuit of Greatness

02:09 • 9min

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Success, Failure, and the Athlete's Journey

11:20 • 22min

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The Relentless Pursuit of Success in Sports

33:04 • 5min

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The Balance of Passion and Competition

37:39 • 12min

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Navigating Worth and Personal Growth Through Resilience

49:11 • 5min

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Embracing Change and Authenticity

54:34 • 15min

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Literature and the Legacy of Civil Rights

01:09:43 • 8min

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#38430

It's The Can-Do Mindset, How to Cultivate Resilience, Follow Your Heart, and Fight for Your Passions

• Mentioned in 12 episodes

What You're Made For

Ryan Holiday

Michael Jordan

Coach George Raveling

This book blends the wisdom of a seasoned mentor with the transformative power of sports, sharing George Raveling's journey from his humble beginnings in segregated Washington, D.C. , to becoming a legendary coach and Nike executive. It includes stories of his time at the March on Washington and his role in creating the Air Jordan brand with Michael Jordan. The book serves as a guide for living a life of purpose and potential.

#24563

Franklin and Winston

an intimate portrait of an epic friendship

Jon Meecham

Jon Meacham

In 'Franklin and Winston,' Jon Meacham delves into the intricate relationship between Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, two leaders who guided the free world to victory in World War II. The book highlights their unique bond, built on shared experiences and strategic discussions, despite occasional insecurities and conflicting interests. Meacham uses new sources, including unpublished letters and interviews, to shed light on their characters and the personal dynamics behind their alliance.

#135

• Mentioned in 96 episodes

The Alchemist

Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" is an allegorical novel that follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on a journey to fulfill his Personal Legend. The story blends elements of fantasy and realism, exploring themes of self-discovery, following one's dreams, and listening to one's intuition. Along his journey, Santiago encounters various characters and challenges that teach him valuable lessons about life and the importance of perseverance. The book's simple yet profound message has resonated with readers worldwide, inspiring them to pursue their passions and embrace the journey. The Alchemist is a timeless tale of self-discovery and the pursuit of one's dreams.

#13453

• Mentioned in 2 episodes

Clementine

The Life of Mrs. Churchill

Sonia Purnell

#3210

• Mentioned in 9 episodes

The Barn

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Wright Thompson

Wright Thompson's "The Barn" delves into the 1955 murder of Emmett Till, focusing on the barn in Mississippi where the horrific crime took place. The book examines the deliberate erasure of this historical event and the lasting impact of racial violence in the American South. Thompson, a fifth-generation Mississippi Delta cotton farmer, uses the barn as a symbol of hidden evil and the collective amnesia surrounding Till's murder. The narrative explores the lives of those who knew about the crime and those who chose silence, highlighting the complexities of racial injustice and the struggle for historical truth. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of confronting the past to build a more just future.

If there’s one thing Candace Parker does best, it’s winning. In today’s episode, Ryan sits down with basketball legend Candace Parker to talk about championships, pressure, and what it takes to be one of the greats. Candace talks about how being elite changes the way you see the world (and yourself), why winning never really feels like enough, and what happens when your whole identity is built around being the best. She opens up about legacy, ambition, parenting, and why she doesn’t go a year without reading The Alchemist.

Candace Parker is one of the most influential athletes of all time. After being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks, following a champion career at Tennessee, Parker went on to become the first player to earn WNBA MVP and Rookie of the Year honors in the same season, win three WNBA championship titles, and take home two Olympic gold medals.

Be sure to grab a copy of Candace’s book: The Can-Do Mindset: How to Cultivate Resilience, Follow Your Heart, and Fight for Your Passions

Follow Candace on Instagram and X @CandaceParker

📚 Books Mentioned:

The Can-Do Mindset: How to Cultivate Resilience, Follow Your Heart, and Fight for Your Passions by Candace Parker
Courage is Calling by Ryan Holiday
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Franklin and Winston by Jon Meacham
Clementine: The Life of Mrs. Churchill by Sonia Purnell
What You’re Made For by George Raveling
The Barn by Wright Thompson
Race Against Time by Jerry Mitchell
Taylor Branch Trilogy

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