Kara Goucher on Abuse, Money, and the Elite Nike Running Team (Best of 2023 SB 1454)
Dec 26, 2023
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Superstar runner Kara Goucher discusses her experience of abuse on the elite Nike running team. The podcast also covers topics such as the closure of app Mint, strategies for finding a job in a cooling labor market, a pre-alcohol probiotic drink, doping violations in the Nike Oregon Project, and the search for a father figure after a tragic car accident.
Kara Goucher faced abuse and controversy while on the elite Nike running team, highlighting the need for ethical practices in sports.
The pursuit of excellence in athletics can sometimes overshadow the joy and love for the sport, necessitating balance and mental health management.
Speaking up and aligning yourself with environments that support your values and passions is crucial for personal growth and fulfillment.
Deep dives
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The story of Cara Gautier, a long-distance runner and Nike athlete
Cara Gautier, a successful long-distance runner and Nike athlete, faced a challenging experience when she revealed her connection to a major sports scandal involving her coach, Alberto Salazar. While initially unaware of Salazar's reputation, Gautier eventually realized the unorthodox and questionable practices within their training program. Despite the difficulties, she credited her coach at the University of Colorado, Mark Wetmore, for his belief in her abilities and support throughout her career.
The impact of pressure and expectations on high school and college athletes
Gautier discussed the pressure and expectations that often arise during the high school and college athletic journey. She expressed how the pursuit of excellence can sometimes overshadow the joy and love for the sport. Additionally, she acknowledged the importance of finding balance, managing mental health, and seeking professional guidance when faced with challenges.
The controversial dynamics within the Oregon Project and the cult-like atmosphere
Gautier shed light on her experience within the Nike Oregon Project, revealing some controversial practices and the cult-like environment surrounding the team. She mentioned unorthodox methods, such as shared massages and a sense of isolation from the outside world. Despite the success and resources provided by the program, she highlighted the ethical challenges and the need to navigate personal values within such an environment.
Keeping a 401k with the old employer or rolling it over to an IRA
Patrick is considering whether to keep his 401k with his old employer or roll it over to an IRA. The administrative fees for the 401k are minimal, and he is satisfied with the low-cost Vanguard index funds available. He also has both Roth and traditional contributions in his 401k. However, he is aware that rolling it over to an IRA could offer more investment choices, potentially lower costs, and greater accessibility. He is also interested in exploring options to transfer the funds to his new employer's plan. Patrick is in his 30s and wants financial independence by age 50 or 55.
Cara Gautier's insights on speaking up and finding the right environment
Cara Gautier emphasizes the importance of speaking up and telling your story. She shares her experience with Nike, where she felt the brand did not align with what she believed it to be. By leaving Nike and joining Wazelle, she discovered an environment that valued her passions and allowed her to align her interests with her career. This empowered her to deepen her self-discovery and pursue what truly mattered to her. This lesson can inspire others to seek environments that support their values and passions.
On today's best of 2023 episode, we revisit an exclusive interview that Joe had with superstar runner Kara Goucher who shared her experience of abuse while on the elite Nike running team.
This episode originally aired on March 15, 2023, so please ignore any mention of current events.