Champion Secrets

Christian Honer
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to "Champion Secrets," the podcast where the untold stories of high achievers are revealed, and the depths of their journeys are explored. Join me, Christian Honer, as I engage in candid conversations with top athletes, high performers, and unique personalities from various domains. In each episode, we delve deep into our guests' personal and professional lives, uncovering the struggles, triumphs, and the often unspoken realities that shape their paths. This isn't your ordinary interview series; it's a place for honest, unfiltered discussions about the things that matter most - faith, politics, family life, personal challenges, and the intrinsic values that drive success. Our conversations are more than just surface-level. We go beyond the typical to understand the mindset, discipline, and resilience it takes to excel. From heartfelt stories to practical wisdom, "Champion Secrets" is an inspiring, thought-provoking journey into the lives of those who have mastered their craft. Whether you're an aspiring athlete, a driven professional, or simply someone who seeks to learn from the best, this podcast offers valuable lessons and insights that can help you in your quest for excellence. So, join us as we uncover the secrets behind the champions and find inspiration to become champions in our own lives. Tune in to "Champion Secrets" and be part of a conversation that changes the way we view success and resilience.

  1. Jul 20

    Faith, Jiu-Jitsu & Never Quitting | Scott Lanham’s Journey of Service and Resilience

    In this episode of the Champion Secrets Podcast, I sit down with Scott Lanham — a veteran, lifelong martial artist, and international grappling competitor who has spent his life pursuing excellence through service and sport. Scott’s journey is one of resilience, discipline, and relentless pursuit of growth. From serving in Iraq and working in law enforcement to competing in martial arts at the international level, Scott shares how the lessons learned through ju-jitsu, competition, and adversity shaped his mindset and his life. We dive into the powerful principles that separate champions from everyone else. Not just in sports — but in life. In this conversation we talk about: • Why ju-jitsu reveals your true character • The difference between being interested vs committed • How elite athletes develop the Champion’s Mind • Lessons from competing in world championships and international events • Why surrounding yourself with the right people changes everything • Learning to control what you can and let go of what you can't • Why gratitude and process matter more than winning Scott also shares incredible stories from: • The World Police & Fire Games • Competing internationally in grappling and martial arts • His path through military service, law enforcement, and competition If you're an athlete, competitor, or someone striving to become the best version of yourself, this conversation will challenge and inspire you. Because champions aren’t defined by wins. They’re defined by commitment, resilience, and mindset. 🎙️ Connect with Scott Lanham LinkedIn Facebook: Scott Lanham BJJ Follow the Champion Secrets Podcast for conversations with Olympians, elite athletes, and high performers about the mindset, discipline, and principles that create champions. Champion Secrets Show

  2. Jul 15

    40 Years of Coaching Wisdom: Character, Leadership & Life Lessons from Coach Dale Carlson

    What does 40+ years of coaching football teach you about leadership, character, and life? In this episode of the Champion Secrets Podcast, Christian Honer sits down with longtime football coach Dale Carlson, who has spent decades coaching, mentoring young athletes, and developing leaders on and off the field. Coach Carlson shares powerful lessons from his journey through college football, starting programs from scratch, mentoring coaches, and helping athletes prepare not just for sports—but for life after the game. Together they discuss: • Why character matters more than talent • The concept of servant leadership in sports • How focusing on life skills actually leads to more winning on the field • The reality that less than 1% of athletes go pro • Why athletes must prepare for life after sports • The importance of mentorship, discipline, and faith Coach Carlson also shares how his perspective shifted during his career—from focusing purely on winning games to developing men of character who succeed long after football ends. If you're an athlete, coach, or competitor, this conversation will challenge you to think deeper about what true success really means. Connect with Coach Dale Carlson Follow Dale on X (Twitter): @DaleCarlson63 🎙 Hosted by Christian Hohner Former Professional Beach Volleyball Player | Athlete Mentor | Host of Champion Secrets If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and share it with another athlete or coach who needs to hear it. Champion Secrets Show

  3. Mar 17

    From NCAA Swimming Champion to the Olympic Bobsledder | Carsten Vissering’s Journey

    In this episode of the Champion Secrets Podcast, Christian Honer sits down with Olympian Carsten Vissering to discuss the mindset, journey, and unexpected path that led him from NCAA swimming champion to Olympic bobsled athlete. Carsten was a five-time All-American swimmer at USC and an NCAA Champion before discovering a new passion for explosive training in the weight room. That passion eventually led him to pursue bobsled — and ultimately compete at the Winter Olympics. But the story isn’t just about athletic success. Carsten shares powerful insights about: • Why loving the process matters more than chasing outcomes • The mental challenges athletes face at the highest level • Why burnout is so common in elite sports • How balancing career, relationships, and athletics improves performance • What athletes can learn from pursuing purpose beyond their sport One of the most powerful lessons from Carsten’s journey: “Don’t build your life around the sport. Build your life — and let the sport be part of it.” Carsten also shares what it’s like competing in a sport where Olympic dreams can be decided by milliseconds, injuries, or circumstances outside of your control — and how staying grounded in the process helps athletes perform at their best. In This Episode • The transition from NCAA swimming to Olympic bobsled • Why Carsten walked away from Olympic swimming • How loving training changed his career • Managing pressure at the Olympic level • Balancing a corporate career while competing professionally • The mindset behind elite performance About Carsten Vissering Carsten Vissering is: • NCAA Champion swimmer (USC) • Five-time All-American • Pac-12 Champion • Olympic bobsled athlete Outside of sport, Carsten works in consulting while continuing to train and pursue Olympic success. 👍 Subscribe for more conversations with world-class athletes 🎙️ New Champion Secrets episodes every week Champion Secrets Show

  4. Mar 9

    Olympic Heartbreak, Therapy, and a New Fight | Emily’s Champion Journey

    Welcome to the Champion Secrets Podcast, where we interview high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and humans who I consider champions — so we can all become champions in our own way. Today’s guest is retired USA Beach Volleyball player Emily, now training to become an amateur boxer. Yes… boxer. In this episode, we dive deep into: Growing up in a faith-based, athletic family Racing dirt bikes and skiing as a child Playing 4 sports in high school Transferring colleges and navigating recruiting stress Shoulder surgery and overseas volleyball Starting beach volleyball at 26 Chasing the Olympics — twice Olympic heartbreak and therapy Learning emotional awareness and leadership Retiring at peace Transitioning into boxing and extreme sport performance training Trusting God when your biggest dream doesn’t happen Emily opens up about: What it feels like to miss the Olympics Why therapy changed her life Why she walked away from volleyball while playing her best How faith shaped her perspective Why she’s stepping into the boxing ring next This conversation is about resilience, identity, reinvention, and trusting God’s timing. If you’re an athlete navigating highs and lows… If you’re chasing a dream… If you’re transitioning into a new chapter… This one’s for you. 🔔 Subscribe for more Champion Secrets episodes. 💬 Drop a comment — what part of Emily’s story hit you the most? Champion Secrets Show

  5. Mar 3

    John Hyden: 2x Olympian, AVP Champion & The Discipline Behind Longevity

    Welcome to the Champion Secrets Podcast, where we interview high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and humans I consider champions — so we can all become champions in our own way. Today’s guest is 2x Olympian, AVP Champion, and one of the most respected veterans in professional beach volleyball — John Hyden. From nearly quitting volleyball to becoming an Olympian… From indoor national team standout to AVP champion… From world-class competitor to devoted husband and father… John shares what sustained excellence really looks like. In this episode, we discuss: How a rainy-day tryout changed his life The discipline instilled by brutal college training Making the Olympic team after being told it was already set Transitioning from indoor to beach at nearly 30 The mindset shift required to compete internationally Manifestation and the “penny wish” story that shaped his Olympic journey Navigating fatherhood, technology, and raising grounded kids Building Hyden Beach and mentoring the next generation John also opens up about the role his wife has played in his success — from recovery, support, and sacrifice to being the emotional anchor behind the scenes. This conversation isn’t just about volleyball. It’s about longevity, leadership, family, and staying disciplined in a distracted world. Champion Secrets Show

  6. Feb 23

    Olympic Gold at 31: Eric Fonoimoana on Grit, Conditioning & Championship Mindset

    Welcome to the Champion Secrets Podcast, where we interview high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and humans I consider champions — so we can all become champions in our own way. Today’s guest is Olympic Gold Medalist, beach volleyball legend, coach, and entrepreneur — Eric Fonoimoana. Eric’s Olympic dream began at just 7 years old after watching his sister compete on the world stage. That childhood vision fueled a 24-year journey filled with heartbreak, relentless conditioning, financial risk, and unwavering discipline — culminating in Olympic Gold at age 31. In this episode, we dive into: Growing up the youngest of six and learning to compete early Crying after losses and refusing to blame teammates Buying 10 AVP tickets on a credit card with no guarantee Training with weighted gear and extreme conditioning methods The Belgium tournament that decided his Olympic fate Turning Olympic pressure into peak performance Transitioning from professional athlete to entrepreneur and father The mindset required to stay even-keeled under extreme pressure Eric shares what separates champions from competitors — and how leadership, discipline, and self-accountability shaped his entire career. If you want to understand the mindset behind Olympic greatness, this episode is for you. Champion Secrets Show

  7. Feb 13

    The Man with No Legs Who Played College Football & Pro Baseball — Davey Stevens' Unbelievable Story

    Welcome back to the Champion Secrets Podcast with Christian Honer — this episode is one for the ages. Recorded live at Super Bowl 2026 Media Row, Christian sits down with the legendary Dave Stevens: the only man in history to play college football and minor league baseball without legs. Dave’s story defies logic. Born without legs, adopted into a loving home, and raised with a mindset of no excuses — Dave went on to become a 3-sport high school athlete, a D1 college football player, a minor league baseball player, a 20-year ESPN broadcaster, and now, a viral voice for the disabled community. In this episode, we dive into: How Dave became a national sports icon without legs His tryouts with the Dallas Cowboys, Twins, Reds, and Olympic baseball team What it means to walk the talk and leave a lasting legacy The role of his coaches, family, and faith in shaping his mindset Why he’s building a foundation to help disabled youth break into broadcasting How to deal with internet trolls and hate without losing your peace The moment he went viral (after 30+ Super Bowls) and what’s next 📚 Check out Christian’s book: athletementorship.com 📱 Follow Christian: @christianvball 📱 Follow Dave: @DaveyStevenSpeaks 🎥 Watch the Netflix film: Saying A Second Chance Champion Secrets Show

  8. 08/13/2024

    A Champion’s Journey with Casey Patterson: Finding Purpose Through Family and Sport

    Welcome to the Champion Secrets podcast, where I interview high performers, athletes, entrepreneurs, and inspiring individuals to uncover the secrets to their success. In this episode, we’re honored to have Casey Patterson, an Olympian, father, coach, and entrepreneur, join us to share his incredible journey both on and off the volleyball court. Casey dives deep into his experiences as a professional beach volleyball player, how family life transformed his approach to the sport, and his transition into coaching and entrepreneurship. He also opens up about his spiritual journey and the importance of purpose, discipline, and mentorship in achieving lasting success. Show Notes:Introduction: Welcome to the Champion Secrets podcast.Introduction of Casey Patterson, Olympian, coach, and entrepreneur.Casey Patterson's Background: Casey’s journey from being an amateur volleyball player to an Olympian.The role of family and fatherhood in shaping his career.Transitioning from professional sports to coaching and entrepreneurship.The Role of Coaching and Mentorship: Casey’s coaching philosophy and his approach to guiding young athletes.Importance of effort, mindset, and resilience in sports and life.How Casey uses his experiences to teach life lessons through volleyball.Embracing New Challenges: Casey’s transition to pickleball and how he’s applying his athletic experience to a new sport.The excitement and challenges of starting fresh in a different athletic field.Balancing family life with personal and professional growth.Spirituality and Purpose: The influence of Casey’s spiritual beliefs on his life and career.The impact of his mission trip on his outlook and work ethic.How faith continues to guide his decisions and actions.Entrepreneurship Journey: Casey’s dive into media, marketing, and content creation post-volleyball.The challenges and rewards of building something new from the ground up.The future of Casey’s entrepreneurial endeavors and his vision for the next chapter.Personal Insights and Advice: How to stay motivated and find purpose in every phase of life.The importance of building a strong support system.Casey’s advice for young athletes and entrepreneurs looking to carve out their own paths.Conclusion: Recap of key takeaways from the episode.Where to find Casey Patterson online and how to connect with him.Thank you to Casey for sharing his journey, insights, and experiences.Quotes:“Finding that purpose beyond the sport was what really transformed my career and life.”“As an athlete, you learn to adapt, to grow, and to face challenges head-on. That’s a lesson that applies to every area of life.”“Having a strong support system—whether it’s your team, your family, or your faith—can make all the difference in achieving your goals.”Tune in to discover Casey Patterson’s journey from Olympic glory to a fulfilling life of coaching, entrepreneurship, and fatherhood. This episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice for anyone looking to lead a purpose-driven life and excel in their passions. Join us as we dive into Casey Patterson's story and uncover the Champion Secrets that can help you succeed in your own journey. Champion Secrets Show

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About

Welcome to "Champion Secrets," the podcast where the untold stories of high achievers are revealed, and the depths of their journeys are explored. Join me, Christian Honer, as I engage in candid conversations with top athletes, high performers, and unique personalities from various domains. In each episode, we delve deep into our guests' personal and professional lives, uncovering the struggles, triumphs, and the often unspoken realities that shape their paths. This isn't your ordinary interview series; it's a place for honest, unfiltered discussions about the things that matter most - faith, politics, family life, personal challenges, and the intrinsic values that drive success. Our conversations are more than just surface-level. We go beyond the typical to understand the mindset, discipline, and resilience it takes to excel. From heartfelt stories to practical wisdom, "Champion Secrets" is an inspiring, thought-provoking journey into the lives of those who have mastered their craft. Whether you're an aspiring athlete, a driven professional, or simply someone who seeks to learn from the best, this podcast offers valuable lessons and insights that can help you in your quest for excellence. So, join us as we uncover the secrets behind the champions and find inspiration to become champions in our own lives. Tune in to "Champion Secrets" and be part of a conversation that changes the way we view success and resilience.

Information

  • Creator
    Christian Honer
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Champion Secrets - Christian Honer
  • Show Website
    Champion Secrets