The Circuit of Success Podcast with Brett Gilliland Dawn Harper-Nelson: From Olympic Glory to Everyday Greatness – Live at Beyond
Olympic gold medalist Dawn Harper-Nelson joins The Circuit of Success for a dynamic live conversation that goes far beyond the track. Recorded Live at Beyond, Dawn brings laughter, insight, and raw honesty as she shares her path from East St. Louis to Olympic podiums—and how family, faith, and fierce determination have shaped every chapter of her story. This isn’t just about medals; it’s about the mindset and the mission that fuels a life of purpose.
Dawn pulls back the curtain on what it takes to train for a race that lasts just 12 seconds, how mental discipline became her secret weapon, and what it was like working under the intense guidance of legendary coach Bobby Kersee. She opens up about motherhood, community, and why coming home will always matter more than global fame. From UCLA to NBC’s Olympic broadcast booth, she continues to evolve and inspire.
Dawn Harper-Nelson is one of the most accomplished hurdlers in the world, with Olympic gold (2008), Olympic silver (2012), and World Championship silver (2017) to her name. She’s a 2022 UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame inductee, and the state of Illinois honored her with “Dawn Harper Day” following her gold medal win. Beyond sports, she’s a spokesperson for the American Diabetes Association, community ambassador for United Way, and supporter of the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation. Now preparing for her PhD in psychology and learning French Dawn proves that champions never stop growing.