Becoming UnDone

About the GuestDennis Helms is a distinguished figure in the world of basketball coaching, having served as the head coach at Odessa College from 1986 to 1996. A member of both the NJCAA Basketball Hall of Fame and the Upper Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame, Helms has coached ten players who went on to play in the NBA. Among these notable athletes is Larry Johnson, the most successful of his protégés. Helms's contributions to the sport and his impact on his players' careers have left a lasting legacy in the realm of junior college basketball.Episode SummaryIn this fun episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Toby Brooks delves into the intertwined stories of college football controversies and the illustrious career of Larry Johnson, with insights from his former coach, Dennis Helms. The episode opens with a critical look at how narratives of villainy, featuring figures like Craig James, have shaped sports history and altered the futures of programs and players. Brooks sets the stage with retellings of significant events involving SMU's scandalous past and its ripple effects on college basketball recruitment, leading to the fascinating detour in Larry Johnson’s path.Brooks meticulously unravels the tale of how Craig James's involvement at SMU and Texas Tech drew widespread condemnation and comparisons to iconic villains from fiction. Through detailed storytelling, listeners discover how James's actions in the 1980s influenced Larry Johnson's forced detour from SMU to Odessa College. The second half of the episode pivots to an interview with Dennis Helms, who shares his experiences coaching Johnson at Odessa College. Helms highlights Johnson's extraordinary work ethic, academic strides, and significant contributions on and off the basketball court—a testament to how initial setbacks can fuel later triumphs.Key TakeawaysThe Villainy Narrative: The episode explores how figures like Craig James have been portrayed as villains in college sports, drawing parallels to fictional antagonists.Impact on Larry Johnson: Insight into how SMU’s scandal and tightened academic scrutiny led to Larry Johnson’s unexpected journey through junior college before achieving stardom at UNLV.Coach Dennis Helms’s Perspective: Coach Helms recalls Johnson’s relentless work ethic and leadership at Odessa College, underscoring his academic and athletic development.Larry Johnson’s Legacy: Highlighting Johnson’s continued impact, including philanthropic efforts such as the Larry Johnson Recreation Center, and his personal generosity and concern for those who supported him.Educational Journey: Johnson’s advancement from a 7th to a 12th-grade reading level in a year demonstrates the critical role of academic support in athletes’ lives.Notable Quotes:Lincoln Riley: "He has an unbelievable sense of entitlement because of who his father is, one that hurts himself and the people around him."Toby Brooks: “Leach chose silence in a three-way standoff between James, Leach, and Hance.”Dennis Helms: "He was like a show in himself. When coaches and different people would come in and watch us, wReach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:Dr. Kwame M. Brown is a neuroscientist holding a PhD from Georgetown University and a BA in Molecular Biology from Hampton University. With an eight-year tenure as a professor of psychology at Hampton, Dr. Brown is widely recognized for his work as the "Neighborhood Neuroscientist," where he combines science, movement, and activism. Throughout his career, he has emerged as a respected scientist and a beloved educator, significantly contributing to his field and the lives of his students.Episode Summary:In this episode of "Becoming UnDone," hosted by Toby Brooks, we delve into the cultural and racial impacts of sports superstars, focusing on Larry Johnson. We start with a flashback to Johnson's rise to fame with the Charlotte Hornets, transitioning into a discussion about Toby's personal experiences that shape his view on growth, fear, and overcoming obstacles, inspired by Carol Dweck's work on mindset. We then segue into addressing prevalent societal issues such as racism and stereotypes, seen through the lens of Toby's admiration for black athletes and artists, against the backdrop of his predominantly white upbringing.The latter half features an engaging conversation with Dr. Kwame M. Brown, exploring the intersection of nineties' hip-hop culture and basketball. Dr. Brown shares insights from his experiences growing up in Virginia, amidst prodigious talents like Allen Iverson and Michael Vick. The discussion also touches upon the influence of Larry Johnson, the cultural shifts in NBA and college sports, and the complexities of addressing racial stereotypes in advertising campaigns like Johnson's "Grandmama." The episode closes with reflections on the profound impact these cultural phenomena had on society and individual mindsets during the transformative early nineties era.Key Takeaways:Growth vs. Fixed Mindset: Toby discusses Carol Dweck’s research on mindset and how shifting from a fixed to a growth mindset can profoundly affect one's success.Cultural Influence: The blend of hip-hop and sports in the nineties significantly impacted popular culture, with figures like Larry Johnson and Allen Iverson representing a shift towards authentic self-expression.Racial and Social Dynamics: The episode examines how racial stereotypes and cultural representation in advertising and sports impact perceptions and social dynamics.Advocacy and Activism: Dr. Brown emphasizes the ongoing struggle against racial stereotypes and the importance of ownership and expression in the black community.Notable Quotes:Toby Brooks: "What I saw in Larry Johnson in 1991 was, in my mind, a superhero."Dr. Kwame M. Brown: "The NBA slowly changing despite its own intention."Dr. Kwame M. Brown: "No longer will you make money off our backs without us being able to express ourselves."Resources:Carol Dweck's Research on Mindset (For further reading on growth vs. fixed mindset).Join us for this enlightening episode and stay tuned for more riveting conversations that unravel the untold stories and insights frReach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:JD Mayo: JD Mayo is a legendary Texas high school basketball coach with a remarkable career that spans decades. Having played a significant role in shaping the lives of many young athletes, Coach Mayo is best known for his mentorship of former NBA star Larry Johnson during Johnson's high school years at Skyline High School. Beyond his coaching accolades, Mayo is celebrated for his holistic approach to player development, emphasizing character, academics, and life skills alongside basketball prowess.Episode Summary:In this episode of the Becoming UnDone docuseries, titled "The Making and Remaking of Larry Johnson," host Toby Brooks embarks on an engaging journey to uncover the origin story of basketball legend Larry Johnson. This episode weaves through a nostalgic tapestry of memories from Brooks’s own childhood, starting with a vivid bus ride in rural Illinois filled with early hip-hop influences, and leading into the inspiring tale of Larry Johnson’s rise from the challenging environment of the Dixon Circle housing projects in Dallas.Brooks converses with the influential figure in Johnson’s life, Coach JD Mayo. Together, they delve into how Johnson’s early experiences and the support of his mother, Dorothea, shaped his career. Through engaging storytelling and rich details, they explore Johnson’s transition from high school to junior college, touching on moments of failure, resilience, and ultimately triumph. This episode provides deep insights into Johnson’s growth as a player and a person, emphasizing themes of encouragement, mentorship, and the impact of community in sports.Key Takeaways:The Early Years: Larry Johnson’s upbringing in the challenging environment of Dixon Circle projects, and how his passion for basketball provided an escape.The Role of Mentorship: Coach JD Mayo's significant influence on Johnson, emphasizing discipline, humility, and teamwork.Path to Success: The pivotal moments leading up to Johnson’s transfer to Skyline High School, facilitated by his mother, Dorothea's strategic decisions.Adversity and Resilience: Johnson’s journey from the disappointment at SMU to his successful tenure at Odessa College, highlighting his perseverance.Lifelong Impact: The enduring relationship between Coach Mayo and Larry Johnson, emphasizing the lasting impact of positive mentorship.Notable Quotes:JD Mayo: "Coaches receive accolades because of those players. When the players do what you ask them to do, we call that execution."Toby Brooks: "It wasn’t just something LL said within the confines of the now classic lyrics. It was actually something that was said to him to inspire him to press on."JD Mayo: "She called him Dee Dee. His middle name's Demetrius. He said, 'Dee Dee, I don't know this man, and you don't either. But he's going to help you to be a better man, better student, and better player.'"Larry Johnson: "I refused to blame anyone for our circumstances. My mindset was, if you want something, practice."JD Mayo: "The good book says you love them. Forgive them, pray for them, then blessReach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Harold KaufmanWith over 35 years in sports, corporate, and business communications, Harold Kaufman is the founder of HK Communications, now part of Tony Fay Public Relations. He is a renowned media and communications specialist who served as the first PR representative for the Charlotte Hornets during their inaugural seasons. Kaufman also spent significant time with the New York Mets, contributing his extensive expertise in media relations and sports marketing.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of Becoming UnDone, Part 1 of the Making (and re-making) of Larry Johnson docu-series," host Toby Brooks reminisces about the cultural phenomenon of Starter jackets in the 1990s and their deep connection to the Charlotte Hornets. Brooks paints a vibrant picture of the Hornets' early years, their bold teal and purple aesthetic, and the rise of basketball celebrity Larry Johnson. This episode dives into the Hornets' history, detailing their exceptional fan engagement and innovative marketing strategies that set them apart.Brooks is joined by Harold Kaufman, the first PR representative for the Charlotte Hornets, who offers an insider’s view of the team’s initial impact and rise to fame. Kaufman discusses the monumental introduction of Larry Johnson to the team, the magnetic fan support, and how the Hornets captured the imagination of a global audience, despite their early struggles on the court. The episode also explores the ebb and flow of Johnson’s career, including his transition to the New York Knicks and his eventual reinvention as a versatile NBA player.Key Takeaways:The Cultural Impact of Starter Jackets: The episode opens with Toby Brooks reflecting on the iconic status of Starter jackets, particularly the Charlotte Hornets’ teal and purple designs that became a global sensation in the early 90s.Founding of the Charlotte Hornets: Harold Kaufman recounts the founding of the Charlotte Hornets, highlighting the extraordinary relationship between the team and the community. The franchise quickly became the epicenter of local pride despite initial on-court struggles.Larry Johnson's Arrival: Johnson’s arrival in 1991, following the draft lottery win, marked a turning point for the Hornets. His personality and skill set made him an instant fan favorite and put Charlotte in the national spotlight.Reinvention and Legacy: The episode delves into Johnson’s career trajectory, illustrating how he adapted his playing style post-injury and left an indelible mark on the NBA, both with the Hornets and later with the Knicks.Notable Quotes:Harold Kaufman: "It's probably the most extraordinary relationship between a team and a community that I've ever witnessed or not only been a part of, but observed."Toby Brooks: "Larry Johnson was everything I had ever wanted to be. He was a star. He was electric. He was a winner."Harold Kaufman: "The memory of when you'd go with him through an appearance, how he was just so revered. My memory is just that smile he had, the gold tooth."Resources:Tony Fay Public Relations: tonyfaypr.comReach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode Summary:In this introspective episode of the "Becoming UnDone" podcast, host Toby Brooks reflects on the multitude of changes he has experienced in the past few months. Transitioning from a long-term position at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center to a fresh start at Baylor University, Toby candidly discusses the whirlwind of onboarding, training, and adjustments that come with a new job. His journey is marked by personal and professional milestones, including watching his children grow up, making career sacrifices for family, and enduring bittersweet farewells.Toby explores the profound impact of change, both in its ability to cause upheaval and promote growth. As he navigates everything from the sale of his family home to the loss of beloved pets, Toby finds solace and inspiration in music, specifically Blind Melon's track "Change." This episode delves deep into Toby's emotional landscape, offering listeners a raw and relatable perspective on coping with transitions and finding gratitude amidst the chaos.Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the GuestNeil Kennedy: Neil Kennedy is an accomplished author, speaker, and founder of the FivestarMan movement. Over the years, he has authored 14 influential books, many of which have been translated into multiple languages and circulated globally. Intriguingly, despite grappling with a speech impediment and failing grammar classes in his early years, Neil has achieved remarkable success. The FivestarMan movement, which aims to resurrect authentic manhood through the five passions of authentic manhood, has profoundly impacted hundreds of thousands of men worldwide. His inspirational journey from an isolated job in the coal mines to an empowering leader for men demonstrates the power of faith and resilience.Episode SummaryWelcome to another enriching episode of Becoming UnDone. This week, Toby Brooks sits down with Neil Kennedy, a powerhouse in men's ministry and founder of the successful Five Star Man movement. Neil candidly shares his journey—from a tumultuous childhood in Oklahoma marred by addiction, alcoholism, and serial adultery—to finding God and reshaping his destiny. Amidst the isolation of working long nights alone at a coal mine, Neil experienced a transformative encounter with faith that guided him to change his life and eventually touch the lives of thousands of men globally through his ministry.In this episode, Neil discusses the critical role mentorship played in his life, how he overcame several personal and professional hurdles, and the genesis of the FivestarMan movement. He emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, resilience, and maintaining a strong sense of purpose. With the same zeal, Neil explains the unique framework of FivestarMan, which focuses on igniting men's internal motivations rather than imposing external standards. Through his story, we learn practical steps to achieve authentic manhood and the significance of directional intent in transforming both personal and professional lives.Key TakeawaysPower of Mentorship: Zig Ziglar's book See You at the Top was instrumental in inspiring young Neil and directing his life towards meaningful pursuits.Transformational Faith: Neil's faith journey began in isolation while working at a coal mine, eventually leading him to ministry and a newfound purpose.Resilience and Character: Emphasizing victory over victimhood, Neil discusses how personal adversity helped build resilience and determination.Five Star Man Framework: Introduction to the five core passions of authentic manhood: adventurous spirit, entrepreneurial drive, gallant relationships, faithful character, and philanthropic cause.Holistic Development: The importance of physical transformation and maintaining comprehensive well-being for fulfilling one's purpose.Notable Quotes"After the devastation of losing what I thought was a dream and finally crying out to God...it was the first time I actually heard the voice of God in my spirit.""I'm just trying to expose who God made men to be... It's drawing out from their heart what they really are without all of the perversions of toxicity in culture."Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:Mikayla Moore is a dedicated and experienced athletic trainer with a rich background in sports medicine. She holds a bachelor's degree in Exercise and Sports Science and a master's degree in Athletic Training. Her career has spanned high school, collegiate levels, and now, professional sports with the Milwaukee Brewers organization. A passionate advocate for athletes' health and well-being, Mikayla's journey reflects resilience and adaptability, as she navigated unexpected job changes and pursued her long-time dream of working in professional baseball.Episode Summary:Welcome to Episode 89 of Becoming Undone titled "No Bad Days," where host Toby Brooks talks with Mikayla Moore, an athletic trainer with the Milwaukee Brewers. This episode dives into Mikayla's professional journey, dealing with an unexpected job loss, and finding her dream job against all odds. Hailing from Texas, Mikayla transitioned from aspiring lawyer to athletic trainer, finding her true calling in sports medicine. Her story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the importance of chasing one's dreams, no matter the setbacks.Mikayla recounts how she was blindsided by a sudden job termination at Oklahoma City University, where she had grown comfortable and fulfilled over five years. Transforming adversity into an opportunity, she landed a role with the Brewers minor league team in the Dominican Republic. The narrative emphasizes her quick adaptation, from processing the shock to securing a new position within 29 days. This episode offers insights into how crises can sometimes be blessings in disguise, encouraging listeners to persist and stay open to new paths.Key Takeaways:Resilience in Adversity: Mikayla’s journey from unexpected job loss to landing a dream role highlights the power of resilience and adaptation.Pursuing Dreams: Despite initial setbacks, Mikayla's determination to work in professional baseball eventually paid off, underscoring the importance of chasing one's aspirations.Support Systems: The episode emphasizes the crucial role of personal and professional networks in navigating difficult times.Growth Through Challenges: Mikayla's experience in the Dominican Republic showcases that challenging environments often lead to immense personal and professional growth.Career Transition: The shift from collegiate to professional sports was significant for Mikayla, providing new opportunities and experiences in her athletic training career.Explore the detail and depth behind Mikayla Moore's inspiring journey by listening to the full episode. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Becoming Undone as host Toby Brooks continues to bring to light the resilience and determination of high achievers.Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:Cara Wells is an accomplished entrepreneur and PhD holder in Animal Science from Texas Tech University. She is the founder of EmGenisys, a company committed to bringing innovative technologies to the animal science sector. Despite facing significant setbacks in her career, including the dissolution of her first company and the loss of her intellectual property, Cara has demonstrated resilience and resourcefulness, earning recognition through several entrepreneurship competitions and awards. Her current work exemplifies her dedication to making a significant impact in the field of animal genetics and breeding.Episode Summary:In this episode of Becoming Undone, host Toby Brooks dives deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Cara Wells, founder of EmGenisys and a PhD graduate from Texas Tech University. Cara shares her experiences, from her initial dreams of becoming a veterinarian to navigating the high-stakes world of animal genetics and startup ventures. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unyielding drive to make a positive impact on the world, despite facing numerous challenges along the way.Throughout the conversation, Cara candidly discusses the highs and lows of her journey, including the collapse of her first company and the subsequent struggles to regain control of her technology. She also highlights the importance of finding the right team, the necessity of being both confident and coachable, and the thrilling yet daunting task of building a product that can live up to its potential in the market. Cara's insights provide a valuable roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those looking to innovate in technical and scientific fields.Key Takeaways:Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Cara's journey illustrates the importance of perseverance and resilience. Despite significant setbacks, she continued to push forward, leveraging her expertise and passion to create new opportunities.The Value of a Strong Support Network: Mentors and supportive teammates were crucial in helping Cara navigate the complexities of startup life and regain her footing after major setbacks.Importance of Adaptability: Cara's ability to pivot, learn, and adapt was key to her ongoing success, showcasing the necessity of being flexible and open to change in the entrepreneurial world.Balancing Confidence and Coachability: Cara emphasizes the need to be confident in one's abilities while remaining open to feedback and willing to learn from others.Innovation and Impact: The potential of Cara's work in animal genetics demonstrates how innovation can address global challenges, from food security to endangered species preservation.For more inspiring stories of resilience and innovation, tune in to Becoming UnDone. Stay updated on future episodes to gain insights and inspiration from high achievers who turned their setbacks into stepping stones towards success. Listen, subscribe, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:Brad Brennan is a former collegiate and professional football player with a deeply rooted background in athletics. Hailing from California, Brad had a noteworthy career as a wide receiver at the University of Arizona and became one of the first Americans to play in Japan's X League of American football. Following his football career, he transitioned into corporate America, currently serving as the Director of Major Accounts for Raken, a major company in the construction software industry.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of "Becoming UnDone," Toby Brooks sits down with his former athlete and dear friend, Brad Brennan, to delve into Brad’s extraordinary journey from a high school athlete in California to playing professional football in Japan and finally transitioning to corporate America. This episode, filled with heartfelt moments and nuggets of wisdom, explores the adversities Brad faced, including severe injuries and the emotional toll they took, and how he managed to overcome them with sheer determination and grit.Brad shares insight into his high school days, the unexpected twists in his athletic career, including an inspiring stint in Japan’s X League, and his brief period in the CFL with the BC Lions. Despite recurrent injuries, Brad’s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability. The episode covers Brad’s life lessons from his time under coach Dick Tomey at the University of Arizona, the trials during his professional career, and the eventual transition to his current role at Rakit, emphasizing his undying will to get up after each fall.Key Takeaways:Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Brad's career was marked by frequent injuries, but he continually fought back and remained determined to keep playing, signifying the power of resilience.Dynamic Career Transition: Transitioning from professional sports to a corporate role at Raken, Brad’s journey illustrates adaptability and finding new paths to success.Inspirational Coaching and Mentorship: Lessons learned from Coach Dick Tomey at the University of Arizona emphasized trust, camaraderie, and the power of caring for teammates, profoundly impacting Brad’s career and life.Cultural and Personal Growth: Brad’s time in Japan not only prolonged his athletic career but also provided a rich cultural experience that broadened his perspective and personal development.Unyielding Optimism and Self-Belief: From betting on himself to handling career setbacks, Brad's story underscores the importance of maintaining self-belief and being open to unconventional opportunities.Notable Quotes:"You're a lot stronger than you think you are. You go down this path and you get slapped in the face and kicked down, and you just have to keep getting up.""When I told my dad, I don't want to do what you did. I'm going to do something different. I don't know what it is. But for now, this football thing's been taking me on this crazy journey.""Coach Dick Tomey taught us really, I think, is just that he came from a real sense of love and not being ashamed to love your teammates or your friends and tell them right.""It was a Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:Dr. Lisa Garner Santa is an esteemed flutist and professor with a trajectory that has brought her experiences both locally and globally. With a musical and teaching journey that began in the small town of Colorado City, Texas, Dr. Garner Santa evolved into a world-class musician whose career has quite literally taken her around the world. She is notably acknowledged for her performances and her influential role as a professor of flute at Texas Tech University. Additionally, she holds the position of Director for the Institute for Faculty Excellence at Texas Tech's Teaching, Learning, and Professional Development Center.Episode Summary:In this episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Toby Brooks welcomes the multi-facetted Dr. Lisa Garner Santa, whose passion for music and teaching has led her down a path adorned with both accolades and adversities. Dr. Garner Santa shares her introspective reflections on growth, pedagogy, and the artistic pursuit — from the plains of West Texas to the top echelons of the music world.Dr. Garner Santa reveals her roots in a tiny West Texas town and how her early influencers cultivated her burgeoning talents, leading to pivotal decisions that directed her towards music as her life's work. Dodging obstacles and embracing opportunities, the episode encapsulates her resilient spirit. By intertwining insightful anecdotes from her life with practical wisdom, Dr. Garner Santa paints a vivid tableau of what it is to transform setbacks into milestones.Key Takeaways:Lisa Garner Santa's initial passion for music was nurtured by meaningful mentorships and opportunities in her small-town upbringing.Her tenacity and self-belief led her to prestigious schools, international experiences, and to foreground performance as a career.Teaching emerged as a calling woven into her musical journey, influencing her deep commitment to students' individual growth.Lisa Garner Santa's resilience in facing academic adversity at prestigious institutions highlights the importance of self-advocacy.She embraces change and personal development, exemplified in her later pursuit of yoga, further enriching her teaching paradigm.Notable Quotes:"I haven't left performing. It's just, it looks a little different than it did at the beginning." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa"My coping mechanism was one that society rewards. And so that coping mechanism wasn't the same for all of my students, was a real turning point in the way that I teach." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa"I've been working myself into a frenzy. And does anyone even notice? So I was on one of those downward swings in academia. So I was like, you know what? I'm going to become a yoga teacher." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa"I came from this tiny town. I've gone to these schools. I haven't had classes like the classes that you're offering. I believe in my ability to do well at your school, and I would really appreciate an opportunity to prove that." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa"Everything that you need to know, and you just have to believe it." — Dr. Lisa Garner Santa, in advice to her younger selfResources:Follow Dr. Lisa Garner Santa on her Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!Support the showBecoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.