Finding The Way with Ryan Lavarnway : Recent Episodes
Ryan Lavarnway
Ryan Lavarnway has played ten seasons of Major League Baseball, starred on Team Israel in the 2017 World Baseball Classic, and was a key player for Israel in the 2020 Olympics. On paper, his career seems like a success, but it has been anything but smooth sailing. He has been called up and sent down from the major leagues 26 times. His drive to keep up the fight is why he has found so much success on the field. The grind never stops and neither does he.
Ryan refuses to believe that the success of sports stars and Olympians is purely physical talent or God-given ability. He thinks the biggest differentiator is what happens between the ears. In ‘Finding the Way’ he is talking to the best of the best to learn how they win their own internal battles to get the best out of themselves on and off the field.
Every Tuesday, tune in to hear Ryan’s interviews with elite athletes and mindset coaches to learn about what makes them tick and how they have overcome obstacles in their careers on their way to finding success.
Learn more about Ryan at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Bennie Fowler is a Superbowl 50 champion, an 8-year NFL veteran and a former Michigan State Spartan.
In this episode, Bennie talks about his football career, seeking mentorship and navigating life’s ups and downs.
You can learn more about Bennie on Instagram @Benniefowler1 and on Twitter @BennieFowler123
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Julie Kliegman is an author whose work has appeared in many major publications. Her first book, Mind Game: An Inside Look at the Mental Health Playbook of Elite Athletes, was released in March of this year.
In this episode, Julie walks us through key points in her book, the inspiration behind writing it, and how she hopes it serves readers.
You can learn more about Julie on Twitter @jmkliegman
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kathleen Quinn Votaw is a two-time author, speaker and award-winning CEO of TalenTrust.
In this episode, Kathleen talks about her work as an author, building humanity in a work environment, building and focusing on Camelot moments and the comparison crisis.
You can learn more about Kathleen on Twitter @ kqvotaw and Instagram @kqvotaw
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Geoff Miller a mental performance coach and founder of Winning Mind, the management consultancy focused on organizational development and performance coaching
In this episode, Geoff discusses the differences between sports and business, the four channels of concentration and the different communication styles.
You can learn more about Geoff on Twitter @WinningMindGEM and Instagram @dotsmillerllc
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Adam Mendler is a world-class leadership advisor, a teacher of graduate-level courses on leadership at UCLA and host of Thirty Minute Mentor, the top-rated leadership podcast in which he interviews America’s top performers.
In this episode, Adam shares the importance of making connections and being present, the value uniqueness holds and the core principles of leadership.
You can learn more about Adam on Twitter @adammendler and on Facebook @Amendler
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kate Good is a former world-class athlete turned mental performance coach. She employs the principles and techniques used by the world's top athletes to help her clients achieve peak performance.
In this episode, Kate talks about the external factors that can influence who we are, tolerance inhibiting excellence and incompletion draining your energy and stalling success.
You can learn more about Kate on Instagram @kate__good
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dr. Linda Haack is a clinical psychologist, specializing in sports psychology. Throughout her career, she has worked with professional athletes, teams and top performers including surgeons, the FBI and more.
In this episode, Dr. Linda Haack talks about being goal-driven as opposed to fear-driven, focusing on the moment and the different learning styles.
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Matt Smith is an entrepreneur and English professional footballer playing as a striker for Salford City F.C.
In this episode, Matt talks about the importance of mental strength and hard work while being a professional athlete, how he overcame imposter syndrome as an athlete and his endeavors as an entrepreneur.
You can learn more about Matt on Twitter @mattjpsmith and Instagram @mattjpsmith
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Miranda Holder is a former endurance athlete who was on the path to the USA national rowing team. After shifting away from that path due to health concern, she turned to becoming a leadership and personal coach.
In this episode, Miranda talks about and gives examples of her narrative and somatic awareness coaching.
You can learn more about Carson on Instagram @holderleadership
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Carson Tueller is an active LGBTQ+ and disability advocate, motivational speaker, writer and personal coach.
In this episode, Carson talks about reframing identity, external pressures and his breakthrough past them and finding fulfilment.
You can learn more about Carson on Instagram @carson_tueller and X @carson_tueller
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Betsi Flint is a six-time AVP Beach Doubles Volleyball Champion and mother that is currently trying to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
In this episode, she talks about her introduction to beach volleyball, the importance of communication on a team and her current journey towards the Olympics.
You can keep up with Betsi on Instagram @Betsiflint
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kaitlin Sandeno was a former competitive swimmer, a two-time Olympian and a four-time Olympic medalist. She is now the national spokesperson of the Jessie Rees Foundation, a motivational speaker and sports commentator.
In this episode, she talks about her competitive edge, the support and nurture from her parents that helped her succeed, her time at the Olympics and her life after swimming.
You can keep up with Kaitlin on Instagram @kaitlinsandeno and @KaitlinSandeno
Follow me on X @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
#2- Joelle Rabow Maletis | Ballet, Control and Performance
WARNING: This episode contains discussions of eating disorders.
Joelle Rabow Maletis was a professional ballet dancer and competitive ballroom dancer for 22 years. She is now a trauma therapist, author and speaker.
In this episode, she talks about her career as a professional dancer, her experience with having and overcoming eating disorders and her transition to becoming a therapist.
You can keep up with Joelle on Instagram @joellerabowmaletistherapy
Follow me on X @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kevin Youkilis is a 10-year MLB veteran, a three-time MLB All-Star and two-time World Series Champion.
In this episode, he shares baseball stories like the origin of his nickname, “The Greek God of Walks” and dives into the topics like leadership and individual mindset that can promote personal growth.
You can keep up with Kevin on Instagram @Kevinyoukilis_ggoh and X @GreekGodofHops
Follow me on X @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway, and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dr. Jonathan Fader help pro athletes, firefighters, highwire walkers and everyday people develop their mental fortitude through performance coaching. His group practice, SportStrata, has also worked with CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, the NY Giants, the NY Mets, and the Wallenda family.
In this episode, Dr. Fader talks about reducing internalized self-criticism, dissociation from distractions, using listening as a coaching approach, and connecting with teammates.
You can learn more about Jonathan on Instagram @jonathan_fader and Twitter @drfader
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Sebastian Little was a football player and psychology student at Yale and is now a leadership and performance coach.
In this episode, Sebastian explores his healing experience from restricted self-expression, staying aligned, growing as a leader, and creating a healthy team culture.
You can learn more about Sebastian on Instagram and Twitter @iamseblittle
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Andrew Keilywas an All-American swimmer and water polo athlete at The Ohio State University, and now is a professional Ironman racer. He’s raced over 20 Ironmans with times granting him a career-high ranking within the top 30 in the U.S. and 100 in the world.
In this episode, Andrew discusses overcoming adversity, reforming his mindset during challenging competition, and strengthening weaknesses.
You can learn more about Andrew on Instagram and Twitter @andrewkeily
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Dan Grunfeld was an All-American at Stanford, a professional basketball player in the European leagues for eight years, and is now an accomplished writer whose publications can be found on Sports Illustrated, The Jerusalem Post, and NBC News. He has most recently published his book Grace of the Game, The Holocaust, a Basketball Legacy and an Unprecedented American Dream.
In this episode, Dan talks about the power of sports, perspectives approaching goals, and finding the balance between pushing yourself to the limit and enjoyment.
You can learn more about Dan on Twitter @Dan_Grunfeld
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Michelle Curranflew in the Air Force for thirteen years, was a major and has received an Air Medal and an Air Force Commodification medal. Today, she is an motivational speaker and author.
In this episode, Michelle talks about trying new things, inspiring underrepresented people, relying on good habits and accepting failure.
You can learn more about Michelle on Instagram @Mace_curran
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Stuart Singer is a sports psychology consultant who has worked with a number of collegiate basketball athletes, as well as NBA and WNBA players.
In this episode, Stu talks about the connection between mentality and maturity, the three core principles he teaches every athlete, and the practice of mindfulness.
You can learn more about Stu on Instagram @wellpreformance and Twitter @wellperformance
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Alex Auerbach is a licensed counseling and sports psychologist, board-certified mental performance consultant, and the current senior director of wellness and development for the Toronto Raptors.
In this episode, Alex talks about the beginning of his career in sports psychology, insecure overachievement, the impact of our environment on our performance, and the truth behind maximizing performance.
You can learn more about Alex on Instagram @alexauerbachphd and Twitter @AlexAuerbachPhD
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Joanna Lohman is a retired soccer player, civil rights activist, advocate for equality and current keynote speaker.
In this episode, Joanna talks about the benefits of failure, discovering her most authentic self, her definition of success, and the importance of understanding your values.
You can learn more about Joanna on Instagram @joannalohman15 and Twitter @JoannaLohman
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Joshua Short is a two-time Emmy-winning reporter and current news anchor for FOX31 Denver.
In this episode, Joshua talks about beating the odds, what it means to make sacrifices, and the hustle he had to achieve his goals.
You can learn more about Joshua on Instagram @Joshuaishort, Tik Tok @Joshshortnews, and Twitter @JoshuashortTV
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Peter Moylan is an Australian former professional baseball player, podcaster, broadcaster and manager of the Melbourne Aces.
In this episode, Peter talks about his professional baseball career and the mindset shift that set him up for his second chance at success.
You can learn more about Peter on Instagram @Petermoylan and Twitter @PeterMoylan Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Amobi Okugo is a Major League Soccer player, Olympian, content creator and entrepreneur. He has been recognized as Forbes 30 under 30 for his countless achievements and consults athletes, brands and companies to leverage on their skills.
In this episode, Amobi talks about the start of his soccer career, his experience with going pro and how he plans for success.
You can learn more about Amobi on Instagram @Amobisays, Twitter @Amobisays and on @Amobisays Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Ryan Leaf was a Heisman Trophy finalist as a quarterback at Washington State University and the second overall pick in the 1998 NFL Draft. After his short NFL career, he faced numerous struggles with substance abuse and the legal system, but has since bounced back and is currently a keynote speaker, who shares his inspiring story with others.
In this episode, Ryan talks about the start of his football career, how his negative mentality led to the end of his NFL career, the darkest period of his life and how his life has changed after he focused on being of service to others.
You can learn more about Leaf on Instagram @RyanDLeaf and Twitter @RyanDLeaf
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Ruben Gonzalez is a four-time Olympian, a motivational speaker and a best-selling author. He holds the record for being the first athlete to compete in four different Winter Olympics in four different decades.
In this episode, Ruben talks about his experience in the Olympics, what it means to have the courage to succeed and visualizing the success you want.
You can learn more about Ruben on Instagram @Thelugeman and Twitter @TheLugeMan
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Jake Olson was the first blind Division I football player and is now a motivational speaker, author and founder of Out of Sight Faith, the foundation dedicated to providing technology to blind schoolchildren.
In this episode, Jake talks about everyday obstacles, his story and what it means to inspire others.
You can learn more about Jake on Instagram @Jakeolson61 and Twitter @JakeOlson61
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Ian Kinsler is a 14-year major league veteran second baseman, as well as a four-time baseball all-star, two-time gold glover, World Series Champion, World Baseball Classic champion, Olympian and Texas Ranger Hall of Famer.
In this episode, Ian talks about having a competitive mindset, earning respect in the field, the rocky path to success and overcoming setbacks.
You can learn more about Ian Kinsler on Instagram @i.kinsler3
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Dr. George Steffian has experience in operational psychology with the Navy. He also has over two decades of experience in providing clinical services, research, and operational consultation to special operations communities across all branches of the Department of Defense.
In this episode, Dr. Steffian talks about his role as an operational psychologist, the importance of mindset in building and training skills, specific exercises and techniques he teaches elite warriors, and aligning your training to the definition of your own success.
You can learn more about Dr. George Steffian on Twitter @GSteffian
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Leah Amico is a three-time USA Olympic softball gold medalist, two-time world champion, national softball Hall of Famer, and three-time Academic All American. She’s currently a professional speaker and host of her own podcast “The Gold Standard”.
In this episode, Leah talks about her college softball recruitment experience, how to deal with failure, the importance of confidence in achieving your goals, and being a good teammate.
You can learn more about Leah on Twitter @leah20usa and Instagram @leah.amico
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Jackie Insingeris a psychologist with over two decades of experience coaching leaders through her positive framework, Platinum Leadership. She is an official member of the Forbes Coaches Council and Harvard Business Review Advisory Board and is also a best-selling author.
In this episode, Jackie talks about authenticity, treating others the way they want to be treated, taking incremental steps towards your goal, and knowing the importance of laughter in your life.
You can learn more about Jackie on Twitter @Jackieinsinger and Instagram @Insingerjackie
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Trey Phills is a two-time Ivy League Basketball Champion and professional basketball player with over 800k followers on TikTok. After he tore his Achilles five games into his 2021-2022 season, he began to share his rehabilitation journey in an honest, inspiring, and motivating way.
In this episode, Trey shares how he had to redefine what “success” meant to him and how he uses social media to be the role model he wishes he had had as a kid.
You can learn more about Trey on Twitter @TTphillss, Instagram @Tphills, and TikTok @Tphills
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Nick Rickles was a professional baseball player for ten years. He was an All-State Baseball Player, a Division I All-American player, and an Olympian for Team Israel.
In this episode, Nick talks about how he turns negative experiences into motivation, the importance of paying it forward, and controlling your own destiny.
You can learn more about Nick on Twitter @NickRickles and Instagram @Nrickles
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Matt Bouldin was named Mr. Colorado Basketball, West Coast Conference Player of the Year, and NBA G League Finals MVP. A former teammate of NBA superstars Steph Curry and Blake Griffin, Matt aims to make a positive impact everywhere he goes.
In this episode, Matt talks about what it means to be a good teammate, how he overcame injuries in his career, and what makes coaches great.
You can learn more about Matt on Twitter @Mattbouldin15 and Instagram @Mattbouldin15
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Jordan Fliegel is a former professional basketball player turned entrepreneur and venture capitalist. Since his playing days, he has taken what he learned about teamwork and leadership as an athlete to build and invest in multiple million dollar companies in the sports industry.
In this episode, Jordan talks about leading with balance, connecting before directing, and the importance of valuing people.
You can learn more about Jordan on Twitter @Jordanfliegel and Instagram @Jordanfliegel
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Ryan Harris was a standout offensive lineman at Notre Dame before becoming a ten-year NFL vet and Super Bowl champion. He more recently has become a motivational speaker, a number-one-selling author, and sports broadcaster.
In this episode, Ryan talks about seeking discomfort, the drive for personal improvement, and reframing failure.
You can learn more about Ryan on Twitter @Salaams_from_68 and Instagram @Ryanharris_68
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Cody Decker ranks 7th on the all-time home run list at UCLA. In 2009 he was drafted by the San Diego Padres in the First Year Player Draft, and he is now a well-known radio and tv personality.
In this episode, Cody talks about the beginning of his love for baseball, his experience with burnout, and the transition he made from baseball into the entertainment industry.
You can learn more about Cody on Twitter @Decker6 and Instagram @Antiherobaseball
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Jimmer Fredette was named 2011 NCAA Division I Player of the Year after winning the scoring title and before being the 10th overall pick in the NBA draft. He has played 6 seasons in the NBA and 4 seasons (so far) in the Chinese Basketball League next year.
In this podcast Jimmer talks about how he developed his fearless mindset, setting goals, and taking responsibility for his own mindset.
You can learn more about Jimmer on Twitter @Jimmerfredettte and Instagram @jimmerfredette_32
Follow me on Twitter @RyanLavarnway, Instagram @Rlavarnway, and on Tik Tok @Rlavarnway
and learn more at https://ryanlavarnway.com/
Ryan Lavarnway has played ten seasons of Major League Baseball, starred on Team Israel in the 2017 World Baseball Classic, and was a key player for Israel in the 2020 Olympics. On paper his career seems like a success, but it has been anything but smooth sailing. He has been called up and sent down from the major leagues 26 times. His drive to keep up the fight is why he has found so much success on the field. The grind never stops and neither does he.
Ryan refuses to believe that the success of sports stars and Olympians is purely physical talent or God given ability. He thinks the biggest differentiator is what happens between the ears. In ‘Finding the Way’ he is talking to the best of the best to learn how they win their own internal battles to get the best out of themselves on and off the field.
Every Tuesday tune in to hear Ryan’s interviews with elite athletes and mindset coaches to learn about what makes them tick and how they have overcome obstacles in their own careers on their way to finding success.
Learn more about Ryan at https://ryanlavarnway.com/