There’s nothing small-minded about this podcast aside from the name! Join your host Tom Smalley, MS, CMPC, founder of struggleintostrength.com, as we dive deep into the realms of personal growth, mental health, and human performance.
From embracing challenges to exploring the nuances of mental resilience, each episode features expert interviews and insights aimed at helping you transform struggle into strength.
And we promise – there's no small talk here!
060 - Mental Health and Identity in Athletic Spaces ft. Kelsey O'Connor
Tom is joined by Former Division 1 Softball Player and Motivational Speaker Kelsey O'Connor to discuss the significance of building trust through shared experiences and the impact of athletic injuries on identity. Kelsey shares her journey through injury, isolation, and the emotional challenges of being a part of a sports team. She discusses the impact of her experiences on her identity and the importance of advocacy for mental health within athletic environments. Kelsey also reflects on her transition to public speaking and how her story resonates with others, emphasizing the power of empathy and personal growth in overcoming adversity.
16 May 2025
059 - Leadership Lessons in Coaching ft. Brittany Rucker
Tom is joined by Senior International Coach Brittany Rucker to discuss the complexities of coach-athlete relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication, setting expectations, and creating a safe environment for feedback. Tom and Coach B discuss how these elements contribute to personal growth and performance, and the significance of finding the right fit between coaches and athletes. They also explore how the environment can impact success and the dynamics of competition within a team.
14 May 2025
058 - Life After the Olympics ft. Jourdan Delacruz
Tom is joined by two-time Olympian Jourdan Delacruz to discuss Jourdan's journey into weightlifting, her experiences at the Olympic Training Center, and the emotional challenges faced during the Olympics, particularly the contrasting experiences between Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. Jourdan shares insights on the importance of support systems, the realities of life in the Olympic Village, and her reflections on identity and mental health after competition.
Jourdan also shares her vision for 'Her Athlete,' a platform she created aimed at providing resources and support for female athletes, emphasizing the significance of holistic approaches in athlete care and the value of a strong support system.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
6,892,534
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
24 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 62 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
58
Social presence
0
YouTube
93
Engagement
71
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