Especially for Athletes Podcast

Especially for Athletes
  • 5.0 (31)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Especially for Athletes (“E4A”) is a movement designed to inspire athletes, and those with whom they associate, to maximize their athletic potential and to use their talents, social influence, and their "Sportlight" to assist and lift others. E4A is seeking to build a culture of athletes focused on changing lives through better use of the attention and influence that accompanies their position. E4A provides education, training and motivational tools to inspire athletes to focus on doing more, and becoming more than just a great athlete.Schools, teams, youth organizations, and individual athletes are encouraged to become E4A certified and join the growing group of athletes of all ages and skill levels including college and professional athletes in committing to the E4A promise and wearing proudly their Eyes Up-Do the Work wrist band.

  1. 168. Kevin Love and the Courage to Ask for Help

    4d ago

    168. Kevin Love and the Courage to Ask for Help

    In this powerful episode of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, Shad Martin and Dustin Smith discuss men's mental health, the stigma surrounding emotional struggles, and the courage required to ask for help. Using the story of NBA All-Star Kevin Love and his public battle with panic attacks and anxiety, they explore why mental health deserves the same attention and care as physical injuries. Whether you're an athlete, coach, parent, or teammate, this conversation will help you better understand the importance of checking on others, speaking up when you're struggling, and creating environments where people feel safe asking for help. Key Takeaways 1. Mental health struggles are real—even when you can't see them. Just because an injury isn't visible doesn't mean it isn't serious. Anxiety, depression, and panic attacks can impact performance and quality of life just as much as physical injuries. 2. Asking for help is not weakness—it is courage. Real strength is not pretending everything is fine. Real strength is having the humility and courage to admit when you're struggling and seek help. 3. Success does not immunize anyone from mental health challenges. Kevin Love was an NBA All-Star at the height of his career when he experienced a panic attack. Mental health struggles can affect anyone regardless of talent, success, popularity, or income. 4. Coaches and parents should keep their eyes up. Great coaches don't just develop athletes; they develop people. Pay attention to behavioral changes and create safe opportunities for athletes to talk. 5. Great teammates notice and respond. LeBron James's response to Kevin Love's article is a model of leadership. Great teammates don't judge; they support. 6. Silence is the greatest ally of mental health struggles. Mental health issues often remain hidden because people fear what others will think. Honest conversations break down stigma and create healing. 7. One person's courage can help thousands. When Kevin Love shared his story publicly, he gave countless others permission to seek help and realize they weren't alone. Links Full ESPN interview with Kevin Love - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sW2LVIp9QcU Kevin Love's Player Tribune article - https://www.theplayerstribune.com/articles/kevin-love-everyone-is-going-through-something00:32:17 - Introduction: Men's Mental Health Month00:34:17 - Kevin Love's Panic Attack Story00:37:02 - Why Mental Health Injuries Are Different00:38:17 - Dustin Shares His Own Experience with Panic Attacks00:41:47 - Why Athletes Often Stay Silent00:43:32 - The Stigma Around Mental Health00:45:32 - Courage vs. Weakness00:47:17 - Why Athletes Fear Asking for Help00:49:17 - What Coaches Can Do00:53:17 - Why Admitting You Need Help Is Courage00:55:17 - Kevin Love's Decision to Speak Out00:57:17 - Why Mental Health Is Harder to Discuss Than Physical Health01:00:17 - LeBron James's Powerful Response01:02:17 - Leadership and Looking Out for Teammates01:05:17 - Freedom Through Honest Conversations01:08:17 - Final Message to Athletes, Coaches, and Parents01:11:17 - Keep Your Eyes Up and Do the Work ⸻ Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ X: https://x.com/E4Afamily Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQJoin the conversation using #E4APodcast ⸻ Credits: Hosted by Dustin SmithProduced by E4A and IMAGINATE STUDIO

    42 min
  2. 167. Anchored Where Your Feet Are with Ty Detmer

    Jun 9

    167. Anchored Where Your Feet Are with Ty Detmer

    A conversational interview hosted by Dustin Smith, alongside Justin Miller, with former NFL quarterback Ty Detmer. The coaches discuss the evolving landscape of youth sports, contrasting the mindset and environments of modern student-athletes with past generations. They dive deep into the impacts of social media, the complexities of the modern college recruiting system, and the timeless importance of football IQ, baseline fundamentals, and mental preparation. 00:32:17 - The Impact of the Smartphone Era on Young Athletes00:40:01 - The Evolution of Coaching Delivery00:43:09 - Ty's Recruiting Experience and Navigating the Recruiting Process Today00:49:59 - Preparation and Taking Advantage of Opportunities00:55:25 - Embracing Where Your Feet Are in High School00:58:50 - Developing Your Attributes01:01:57 - How Offensive Football Continues to Change01:07:22 - Modern QB Coaching01:13:57 - Ty's Mentors Throughout His Career01:18:59 - A Message to Incoming High Schoolers and Parents ⸻ Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ X: https://x.com/E4Afamily Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQJoin the conversation using #E4APodcast ⸻ Credits: Hosted by Dustin SmithProduced by E4A and IMAGINATE STUDIO

    50 min
  3. 166. Dream a New Dream

    Jun 2

    166. Dream a New Dream

    In this episode of the Sportlight Podcast, Shad Martin and Dustin Smith revisit a powerful lesson from Paralympian and former BYU football player Jeff Griffin. After a tragic accident ended Jeff’s dream of playing football, he learned that resilience is not always about refusing to quit—it is sometimes about having the courage to redirect your energy and dream a new dream. This episode is especially meaningful for athletes facing graduation, transition, disappointment, or the closing of a chapter. Key Takeaways Resilience sometimes means redirecting, not quitting.When one door closes, the challenge is to take the lessons, discipline, and strength you gained and put them toward something new. Some dreams have a shelf life.Athletic careers, seasons, and chapters eventually end, but the growth from them can last forever. The lessons of sports are not reserved for stars.Every athlete can learn discipline, sacrifice, teamwork, toughness, and how to pursue a worthy goal. Don’t stop dreaming just because one dream ends.A closed door may be the beginning of a better chapter. Where your focus goes, your energy flows.Part of maturity is deciding where your energy belongs next.Chapter Timestamps 00:32:17 — Introduction to the Episode   Shad and Dustin introduce the format and the focus on powerful clips from past guests. 00:32:55 — Jeff Griffin’s Story   Shad introduces Jeff Griffin, a former BYU football player and Paralympian whose life changed after a 40-foot fall. 00:34:22 — When a Dream Ends   The discussion turns to athletes graduating or facing the end of their playing careers. 00:38:53 — Dreaming a New Dream   Shad introduces the central idea: resilience includes knowing when to dream a new dream. 00:39:35 — Is Redirecting the Same as Quitting?   Dustin reflects on the difference between quitting and moving on with purpose. 00:42:04 — Redirecting Energy   Shad explains that redirecting energy is different from giving up. 00:46:46 — Dreams Have a Shelf Life   Dustin shares that some goals are lifelong, while others are meant for a season. 00:49:22 — Lessons from Sports Continue After Sports End   Shad emphasizes that sports prepare athletes for future goals, even after their playing days are over. 00:51:12 — Living a Dream You Didn’t Know You Had   Shad shares Ammon Montenegro’s example of redirecting from football to cheer. 00:53:29 — Closed Doors Can Open Better Doors   Shad reflects on how Jeff Griffin may have done even greater things because of the door that closed. 00:55:24 — Asking, “What’s My New Dream?”   Shad shares a personal reflection about becoming an empty nester and redirecting energy in life. 00:56:09 — Final Thoughts   Dustin reminds listeners that yesterday’s dreams can prepare us for tomorrow’s greater purpose. 00:58:03 — Closing Message   Athletes are encouraged to get after it during the summer and, when needed, dream a new dream. ⸻ Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ X: https://x.com/E4Afamily Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQJoin the conversation using #E4APodcast ⸻ Credits: Hosted by Shad Martin & Dustin Smith Produced by E4A and IMAGINATE STUDIO

    27 min
  4. 165. The Fine Line Between Average and Good

    May 26

    165. The Fine Line Between Average and Good

    In this episode of the Especially for Athletes podcast, Dustin Smith and Shad Martin revisit a powerful insight shared by former NFL All-Pro Eric Weddle about the “fine line between average and great.” What follows is a deep discussion on consistency, sacrifice, self-motivation, preparation, humility, and the daily habits that separate people who merely dream from people who actually develop greatness.The conversation explores why we often romanticize greatness instead of recognizing the discipline behind it, why consistency matters more than motivation, and how small daily choices eventually become extraordinary outcomes. The episode also dives into practical ways athletes, parents, coaches, and young people can create routines of excellence and build resilient habits that last.This episode is a reminder that greatness usually isn’t dramatic—it’s accumulated. Key Takeaways Greatness is usually accumulated, not inherited. Consistency matters more than temporary motivation. Small daily choices create long-term success. Most people romanticize greatness because it removes responsibility from themselves. Preparation allows people to capitalize on opportunity. Humility is essential if you want to improve. Motivation fades quickly; disciplined routines endure. Sacrifice is often the difference between average and great. Winning the battle with yourself is the most important competition. Developing skill requires patience and repetition long before anyone notices.Main Topics & Timestamps 15:23 — Why revisit old podcast moments? Dustin and Shad explain the new podcast format and why certain past conversations deserve deeper attention. 19:29 — Why do we romanticize greatness? Discussion on why people often attribute success to talent instead of discipline and sacrifice. 24:04 — Capitalizing on opportunity The role of preparation, timing, and work ethic in becoming successful. 26:52 — Greatness is accumulated Why consistency matters more than flashes of motivation. 28:38 — “You’ll never go broke taking a profit” A football analogy about small victories and daily progress. 32:03 — Motivation vs. consistency Why self-motivation matters more than external inspiration. 35:39 — Tactical plans create progress How routines and daily habits help athletes avoid procrastination. 38:33 — Humility and seeking mentorship Why improvement requires asking successful people for help. 43:09 — Routine creates greatness Building systems and habits instead of waiting to “feel motivated.” 46:11 — Talent vs. skill Why talent alone is never enough without disciplined development. Full Episode with Erik Weddle https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWnB-UzhfdY&list=PLjow7UW4zcvU3CC2U5jUnrGEIbhbwhm0b&index=115 ⸻ Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ X: https://x.com/E4Afamily Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQJoin the conversation using #E4APodcast ⸻ Credits: Hosted by Dustin Smith & Shad Martin Produced by E4A and IMAGINATE STUDIO

    33 min
  5. 164. Grit, Preparation & Leadership with Brandon Doman & Justin Miller

    May 14

    164. Grit, Preparation & Leadership with Brandon Doman & Justin Miller

    What separates athletes who reach their potential from those who fall short? In this episode of the Especially for Athletes podcast, Dustin Smith sits down with Brandon Doman (former San Francisco 49er and BYU QB & Coach) and Justin Miller (former Southern Utah University QB) for a powerful conversation about preparation, self-belief, opportunity, grit, patience, and leadership. With more than 30 years of combined coaching and playing experience, Coach Doman and Coach Smith share lessons learned from working with elite athletes at the high school, collegiate, and professional levels. Together, they discuss what young athletes, parents, and coaches often overlook in the pursuit of success and why character, consistency, and belief matter just as much as talent. One message stands out throughout the conversation: “If your heart believes it, you can achieve it.” This episode is packed with practical wisdom for athletes chasing big goals and for the parents and coaches trying to guide them the right way. In this episode, we discuss: Why grit and patience matter more than instant success How preparation creates confidence and opportunity The overlooked qualities of effective leadership What separates athletes who last from athletes who fade Lessons learned from coaching elite competitors How belief impacts performance and long-term growthThis is a must-listen for athletes, coaches, and parents who want to better understand the mindset required to compete and lead at a high level. Please listen, share, and leave a review if you are enjoying the show. Message from E4A Founder Dustin Smith: As we wrap up the 2025–2026 school year, the Especially for Athletes program is stronger than ever. We owe a huge thank you to all of you for your continued support. We are now heading into our 15th year. The “Eyes Up, Do the Work” message has reached tens of thousands of people in person and over a million more through social media, our podcast, and various media outlets. This summer, we are focused on improving our program and making it even more accessible. We will be fundraising and seeking sponsors to keep costs low—or free—for teams, schools, and clubs. We remain diligent in our search for leaders committed to improving culture and community for our young people. If you have ideas or stories of “Eyes Up, Do the Work” that you would like us to share, please reach out. Thank you for believing in our mission. Learn more at E4A.org ⸻ Especially for Athletes:  Website: https://e4a.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/  X: https://x.com/E4Afamily   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQJoin the conversation using #E4APodcast ⸻ Credits: Hosted by Dustin Smith  Produced by E4A and IMAGINATE STUDIO

    1h 1m
  6. 163. Professional Golfer & BYU Standout Keanu Akina

    Apr 7

    163. Professional Golfer & BYU Standout Keanu Akina

    In this week’s Especially for Athletes podcast, professional golfer and former BYU standout Keanu Akina shares what it really means to “Win the Hour”—and why smart work beats just working harder. From grinding alone across Europe to learning how sleep, nutrition, and balance actually fuel performance, Keanu opens up about the unseen challenges of chasing a dream at the highest level. He also shares powerful insights on resilience, letting go of mistakes, and discovering your true purpose beyond your sport. If you’ve ever felt pressure to do more, struggled to bounce back, or wondered how to balance ambition with sustainability, this episode will challenge how you think about growth and success. KEY TAKEAWAYS:Smart work > more workWinning the hour isn’t just grinding longer—it’s doing the right things at the right time, even if that means resting, eating, or recovering.You can’t outwork poor balanceKeanu learned the hard way that skipping meals, sleep, and strength training led to injury and burnout—taking care of your body is part of the work.Let it go and play the next shotWhether in golf or life, you can’t change the last mistake. Growth comes from focusing forward, not replaying what already happened.Resilience is built in the hard momentsFrom lonely travel in Europe to tough tournament rounds, resilience comes from choosing to keep going—even when it’s uncomfortable or uncertain.Your purpose is bigger than your sportGolf isn’t who Keanu is—it’s a platform. True fulfillment comes from using your talents to bless others and bring good into the world.You are where you are—now move forwardLike golf, life doesn’t offer many mulligans. Accept your current position and focus on the next right step. CHAPTERS/TIMESTAMPS: 0:16 – Introduction & Keanu Akina’s Background 1:56 – Life After BYU: Marriage & Turning Pro 4:31 – Playing Professional Golf Around the World (Europe Experience) 6:46 – The Loneliness of Individual Sports 8:46 – Team Sports vs Individual Mindset (Basketball vs Golf) 11:46 – Win the Hour: Managing Time & Energy as a Pro 13:36 – “Smart Work” vs Just Grinding More 14:46 – Injuries, Nutrition & Learning to Take Care of Your Body 16:16 – Balance as a Performance Advantage (Sleep, Recovery, Health) 17:16 – Letting Go of Mistakes (Play the Next Shot) 19:16 – Mental Game: Proactive vs Reactive Thinking 22:16 – Learning from Past Comebacks Without Adding Pressure 23:31 – Golf & Life Parallel: Play Where You Lie 27:31 – Resilience in Golf & Life 30:16 – Marriage, Growth & Becoming Less Selfish 33:16 – Faith, Mission Experience & Finding Purpose 46:16 – Your Sport Is Not Your Identity (The Sportlight Principle) 49:46 – Rapid Fire Questions (Fun Segment) 1:00:16 – Final Thoughts & Closing Message⸻ Especially for Athletes:  Website: https://e4a.org   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/   X: https://x.com/E4Afamily   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQJoin the conversation using #E4APodcast ⸻ Credits: Hosted by Dustin Smith & Shad Martin Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

    56 min
  7. 162. Former Utah Tight End Cole Fotheringham

    Mar 25

    162. Former Utah Tight End Cole Fotheringham

    In this week’s Especially for Athletes podcast, former University of Utah tight end Cole Fotheringham shares how a simple shift in mindset—seeing your opponent as your “dance partner”—can unlock your best performance and change the way you compete. He opens up about overcoming fear-based thinking from coaches, parents, and within himself, and how learning to play free instead of fearful transformed both his game and his growth. If you’ve ever overthought failure, struggled with pressure, or wanted to compete with more confidence and purpose, this episode will challenge and inspire you to see the game—and your life—differently.   Key Takeaways:   Your opponent is your partner in growth.   Your opponent is your "dance partner"- When you stop seeing opponents as enemies and start seeing them as the reason you improve, competition becomes a tool—not a threat. Fear is a terrible fuel source- Whether it comes from coaches, parents, or within, fear leads to overthinking and tight play—confidence and freedom lead to your best performance. Focus on what you can control—yourself. Comparison, stats, and outcomes pull you out of the moment; your effort, mindset, and preparation keep you grounded and effective. Adversity is not something to escape—it’s something to use. Growth comes from staying, adjusting, and pushing through hard situations—not always taking the easier path.  You play your best when you’re present, not in your head. The more you let go of past mistakes and future worries, the more you can perform freely and fully in the moment.Podcast Timestamps:  0:16 – Introduction & Cole Fotheringham’s Background   3:41 – Current Situation, Injuries & Staying Ready   4:15 – Compete Without Contempt (Phil Jackson “Dance Partner” Quote)   7:16 – The Sportlight: Pressure, Recognition & Social Media   10:01 – Mental Health & Pressure in Sports   13:16 – Adversity, Transfers & Choosing the Hard Path   16:16 – Resilience Through Injuries & Mental Growth   18:36 – Playing Free vs Playing in Fear   23:16 – Overthinking, Comparison & Being Present   27:46 – How to Get Out of Your Head (Flow State)   30:16 – Fear-Based Coaching vs Love-Based Coaching   33:46 – Creating a Healthy Team Culture   37:46 – Parenting & Coaching Without Fear   40:06 – Don’t Let Fear Be Your Fuel   42:06 – Overthinking Worst Case vs Best Case   43:01 – Final Thoughts & Closing Message ⸻ Especially for Athletes:• Website: https://e4a.org • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ • X: https://x.com/E4Afamily • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ Join the conversation using #E4APodcast ⸻ Credits: Hosted by Dustin Smith & Shad Martin Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

    44 min
  8. 161. Record Setting College QB Justin Miller

    Mar 18

    161. Record Setting College QB Justin Miller

    We sat down with former Southern Utah University QB, and long-time E4A member Justin Miller. He reflected on how the principles of E4A have shaped him and helped him as he has navigated his athletic career. We also talked about the difference of being present and being engaged. Key Takeaways from the Podcast Being present is not enough—be engaged. True influence comes when we give our full attention to the people around us rather than simply being in the same room.  Resilience matters more than a perfect path. Justin’s journey to college football included injuries and unexpected turns, but persistence and “stick-to-it-iveness” helped him stay the course.  Influence multiplies across generations. Living good principles today can create a ripple effect that blesses people for years to come. Athletes have a powerful opportunity to serve. The spotlight that comes with sports can be used to bless others rather than simply seek recognition. Real impact requires action. Simply being around people is not enough—service, effort, and stepping out of our comfort zones are what truly make a difference0:16 Meet College QB Justin Miller0:33 Growing Up in California & Moving to Utah2:36 Snow College, Romania, and a Broken Throwing Wrist5:25 Walking On at Southern Utah7:39 Turning Around the Southern Utah Football Program10:52 How Justin Discovered Especially for Athletes15:16 Life Lessons Sports Teach You20:16 The Power of Resilience & “Stick-to-It-iveness”32:16 Lessons Learned Outside of Football42:16 Taking Risks Instead of Playing It Safe57:16 Seek to Bless, Not Impress1:04:46 Final Lessons from Justin’s Journey ⸻ Especially for Athletes:  Website: https://e4a.org   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/   X: https://x.com/E4Afamily   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQJoin the conversation using #E4APodcast ⸻ Credits: Hosted by Dustin Smith & Shad Martin Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

    1h 8m
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5
out of 5
31 Ratings

About

Especially for Athletes (“E4A”) is a movement designed to inspire athletes, and those with whom they associate, to maximize their athletic potential and to use their talents, social influence, and their "Sportlight" to assist and lift others. E4A is seeking to build a culture of athletes focused on changing lives through better use of the attention and influence that accompanies their position. E4A provides education, training and motivational tools to inspire athletes to focus on doing more, and becoming more than just a great athlete.Schools, teams, youth organizations, and individual athletes are encouraged to become E4A certified and join the growing group of athletes of all ages and skill levels including college and professional athletes in committing to the E4A promise and wearing proudly their Eyes Up-Do the Work wrist band.

Information

  • Creator
    Especially for Athletes
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    123
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    2025 © Especially for Athletes Podcast
  • Show Website
    Especially for Athletes Podcast

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