the Learn-It-All™ podcast 266: Start Strong Mini-Series: Three-Time Gold Medalist on Why Action Beats Anxiety Every Time | Leah Amico
Champions aren’t made by raw talent—they’re forged through mindset, action, and relentless adaptation. In this high-impact episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon sits down with three-time Olympic gold medalist Leah Amico to uncover what truly separates elite performers from everyone else. From overcoming imposter syndrome and handling high-pressure moments to transforming bitter setbacks into growth opportunities, Leah Amico shares unfiltered stories and actionable strategies for building confidence, staying coachable, and leading with heart. Whether you’re stepping into a new leadership role, striving for personal excellence, or guiding the next generation, this episode delivers powerful tools and perspectives for anyone ready to thrive—on the field or off.
Through candid conversation, practical frameworks like MAP (mindset, action, people/progress), and deeply relatable stories, you’ll discover not only how to reach the top—but how to keep growing once you get there.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why mindset and handling pressure are more critical than raw talent for long-term success
- How to overcome imposter syndrome when stepping into new or intimidating roles
- The power of coachability and learning fast—especially after failure
- How Leah Amico’s MAP framework can guide growth in any domain
- Navigating adversity and bounced-back detours—plus lessons for conquering career setbacks
- How to stay confident, take action, and build lasting habits—on and off the field
Timestamps:
00:02 – Why experience is the best teacher
01:07 – Leah Amico’s story: Work ethic, putting team first, and Olympic success
02:54 – Separators of elite champions: Mindset and pressure
04:07 – Becoming coachable and learning from setbacks
05:00 – Handling self-doubt and finding determination
06:28 – Advice for new leaders facing imposter syndrome
07:19 – Learning fast: Asking questions and getting reps
08:42 – Receiving and applying feedback as an athlete
10:48 – Turning focus from problems to solutions
11:53 – The MAP framework: Mindset, Action, People
15:11 – Overcoming adversity: Switching from pitcher to outfielder
19:30 – Advice for people passed over for promotions
21:16 – Breaking out of comfort zones and saying yes to opportunity
23:25 – How Leah Amico fell into speaking and commentating roles
27:35 – Extracting actionable feedback and learning from it
29:35 – Why authenticity and sharing struggles connect leaders
31:11 – Managing identity after sports—and transferring skills to new careers
35:45 – Deciding which opportunities to pursue
37:56 – Advice for women leaders: Build confidence, stay clear, take action
40:09 – Performing under high pressure: Championship stories
43:19 – The lesson of perspective from a superfan
45:54 – Building strong daily habits for growth
48:42 – Why self-validation and positive self-talk matter
51:41 – How coaches/parents can help others see their own greatness
54:16 – Advice for sports parents: Keep it fun, offer support, build confidence
56:50 – The power of showing up—for teams and for family
About Leah Amico
Leah Amico is a three-time Olympic gold medalist, World Champion, and NCAA champion softball player. She’s the author of A Gold Standard, a keynote speaker, sports commentator, and host of the Gold Setter podcast. Known for her relentless work ethic, Olympic leadership, and her MAP framework for growth (mindset, action, people), Leah Amico empowers leaders and teams to thrive under pressure and build winning cultures in any field.
Resources & Mentions:
- Leah Amico’s website: https://leahamico.com
- Leah Amico on LinkedIn
- Leah Amico on Instagram: @Leah20USA
- Leah’s book: A Gold Standard (details at leahamico.com)
- Gold Setter Podcast: Gold Setter podcast with Leah Amico
Podcast Contact Information:
Website: www.learnit.com
Email: podcast@learnit.com
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