In this episode of Life Beyond Labels, Kelsey talks with Dr. Scott Lynch, a former Director of Athletic Medicine at Penn State, who shares his story of advocating for athlete safety. Dr. Lynch discusses the challenges he faced in prioritizing player health over coaching pressures and the systemic issues in college sports. He emphasizes the importance of speaking up against unethical practices and proposes solutions for better athlete care, including independent oversight in sports medicine. This conversation highlights the need for a cultural shift in how athletes are viewed and treated, advocating for the prioritization of their well-being and safety.
What to Expect:
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Scott Lynch
02:09 Journey from Wrestling to Medicine
06:21 Becoming Director of Athletic Medicine
12:40 Challenges and Pressures in Medical Decisions
25:04 Proposed Solutions for Athlete Safety
34:23 The Future of College Sports and Player Rights
35:37 Viewing Athletes as People: A Cultural Shift
38:54 Navigating Injury and Pressure in Youth Sports
44:06 The Decision to Pursue Legal Action
54:34 The Importance of Speaking Up
Call to Action: If you are an athlete witnessing or experiencing some of these issues, talk to someone you trust and don’t be afraid to speak up.
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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In this episode of Life Beyond Labels, Kelsey sits down with photographer Steve Whitsitt, who shares how his shyness inspired him to challenge himself and pursue photography as a way to connect with others. Steve reflects on his time in the military, the path that brought him into photography, and the personal growth he’s experienced along the way. Though he is often recognized for photographing icons like Michael and Janet Jackson, as well as major events like Woodstock and Lollapalooza, his story extends far beyond his work with celebrities. Steve emphasizes the importance of connection, authenticity, and self-acceptance in both art and life. Together, he and Kelsey explore the value of being present, building meaningful connections, and finding deeper fulfillment through serving others.
What to Expect:
Call to Action: Challenge yourself to connect with people, even if it’s outside your comfort zone. Curiosity creates connection!
Where to Find Steve:
Website: https://www.spwhitsittphoto.com/
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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In this episode of Life Beyond Labels, Kelsey sits down with Brenda K. Reynolds—international coach, TEDx speaker, and author—about navigating major life transitions and building resilience in uncertain times. Brenda shares how various life events (an unexpected divorce, the 2008 financial crisis, sending children off the college, and others) were the catalyst for her work on “transition fog.” She shares how she learned to move forward when there was no clear roadmap, and how those experiences shaped her approach to helping others through change. Brenda also talks about her new transformational journal, 5 FROGS, which outlines the stages we go through during periods of transition and growth.
Whether you're facing a career shift, personal change, or simply feeling stuck in the unknown, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you move through it with clarity and confidence.
What to Expect in '5 FROGS: Brenda K. Reynolds on Navigating Life Transition Fog':
Call to Action: Listen to Brenda’s TEDX Talk and look up her 5 FROGS transformational journal!
Where to Find Brenda:
Website: https://www.brendakreynolds.com/
Socials: @brendakreynolds
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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In this episode of Life Beyond Labels, Kelsey sits down with Tom Smalley, MS, CMPC, for a candid conversation about mental health, OCD, and turning pain into purpose. Tom opens up about his diagnosis with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and the impact it’s had on his life, including a time when he faced a toxic environment and bullying from coaches. Tom shares how he took that struggle and turned it into strength: launching his own mental performance coaching practice, pursuing Olympic weightlifting, and becoming a successful speaker and advocate. Kelsey and Tom also dive into topics like therapy, faith, speaking, and people who have inspired them. If you're looking for real talk about mental health, resilience, and finding strength in your story, this one’s for you.
What to Expect:
This episode contains sensitive content including the mentioning of suicidal thoughts and mental health challenges. If you or someone you know are experiencing mental health challenges, please call the 988 Crisis Hotline or seek individual services from a professional.
Call to Action: Learn more about OCD at https://iocdf.org/
Where to Find Tom:
Website: https://www.struggleintostrength.com/
Socials: @s2sfof
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by the individuals in this episode are individual opinions and do not reflect the opinions of the International OCD Foundation or their respective professions. This content does not replace therapy or mental health services.
In this deeply heartfelt episode of Life Beyond Labels, host Kelsey O’Connor sits down with longtime family friend, Michele Doty. Michele shares how her world shifted when she was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer, but how she continues to show up with honesty, gratitude, and joy. Rather than being defined by her diagnosis, she talks about holding onto her identity, finding meaning (and movement) in each day, and more about who she is as a loving mother, business owner, and radiant human being.
What to Expect in 'A Sunshine State of Mind':
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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Just because it ended differently than you expected doesn’t mean you failed. In this episode, we’re diving into navigating unexpected endings, especially when the ending feels like a failure. It’s hard to talk about what happens when the door shuts on a dream, goal, career, or relationship. What happens when you’ve done everything you can, but there’s no more pushing to be done? There is shame that can come with perceived failure, but this episode talks about radical acceptance and believing in the meaning of the journey, even when we don’t see it yet. With resilience, faith, and patience, every ending has the potential to lead to a full-circle moment just around the corner.
What to Expect:
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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You know that feeling when you kick off the New Year with ambitious goals and an endless to-do list? Everything feels possible until life happens. One skipped step turns into two, and suddenly, you’re off track, wondering where the spark went. In this episode, Kelsey shares her personal New Year’s Eve practices, including TWO types of resolutions: writing vision letters to herself and creating ‘to-be’ lists alongside her SMART goals. She emphasizes that it is important to take action, but it helps when we can re-inspire our ‘why’ at any given time to stay motivated long after January. If you’re ready to transform your resolutions into lasting change, this one’s for you!
What to Expect:
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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In this episode of the Life Beyond Labels podcast, host Kelsey O'Connor interviews Rob Finkelstein, CEO and founder of Alumni Direct. Rob shares his journey from being a collegiate athlete to an entrepreneur, the challenges of transition when your kids no longer play sports, and the importance of building community through alumni connections. Rob shares insights on networking, the value of relationships, and the impact of his podcasting journey. Join us for an episode that will inspire you to be bold and expand your circle!
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Rob Finkelstein and His Journey
03:02 Transitioning from Athletics to Entrepreneurship
05:56 The Role of Parents in Sports Transitions
08:59 Building Community Through Alumni Connections
12:03 The Challenges of Starting a Business
15:03 Networking and Building Relationships
17:50 Creating Alumni Direct: A Platform for Connection
21:03 The Impact of Podcasting on Networking
23:48 Advice for Those Lacking a Network
27:07 The Importance of Intentional Connections
30:02 Vision and Goals for Alumni Direct
32:56 Conclusion and Where to Find Rob Finkelstein
What to Expect:
Call to Action: Reach out and connect with someone new this week!
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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Hi friends, in this episode, we will talk about a common topic that sounds easy and seems simple but can be hard to implement into our lives: staying present. In this episode, I’ll share personal anecdotes and strategies I use to appreciate the moment and incorporate mindfulness into my day when life seems to race by me. Categorizing these into 8 specific practices, I encourage you to listen, try one of these practices, and take or leave what works for you. These tips will hopefully enhance your emotional well-being, improve your connections with others, and increase your awareness and appreciation for the present moment.
What to Expect:
8 unorganized tips for staying present and finding stillness so you are present in the moments of your life.
Call to Action: Try one of these mindfulness practices and see if it helps you to stay present in the moment.
Referenced:
“Be Where Your Feet Are”: Seven Principles to Keep you Present, Grounded, and Thriving - by Scott O’Neil
“Breathtaker” by SYML
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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The internet is filled with “how to” guides, but what if it isn’t that simple? In this episode, we’ll talk about why it’s important not to be discouraged by how-to advice that seems to hand all the answers on a silver platter. We’ll discuss the importance of recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to personal growth and success. Through a few personal examples, we’ll highlight the need for individualized strategies and difficulties that arise with of oversimplifying complex topics into 'how-to' guides. This episode will include my experience with various self-help methods and encourage listeners to explore different paths to find what works best for them. The conversation highlights the significance of personalizing advice and being mindful of the sources from which we receive guidance.
What to Expect:
Call to Action: When you seek out or receive advice, try it consistently, reflect on if it works for you, and then take it or leave it without judgment until you find what truly helps you become the best version of you!
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Sydney Supple. Sydney is infectiously energetic, strong, committed, and generously kind. She empowers others through her work in sports and storytelling.
Sydney Supple is a former D1 Softball player at Northwestern University and a current sports broadcaster. Kelsey and Sydney talk about Sydney's journey in sports, the importance of community and giving back, navigating confidence and self-perception, and the role of strong female figures in her life. Sydney shares her experiences transitioning from college sports to broadcasting, the challenges of maintaining confidence, and the valuable lessons learned from her family. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-awareness, mentorship, and the empowerment of young athletes.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:05 Sydney's Journey in Sports
05:51 The Importance of Community and Giving Back
09:05 Navigating Confidence and Self-Perception
12:10 Transitioning from College Sports to Broadcasting
14:58 The Role of Strong Female Figures
17:59 Advice for Young Athletes
20:52 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations
What to Expect:
Call to Action: Reflect on causes you care about, how you might want to give back to a community in your life, or ways you can inspire the next generation.
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
Sydney Links:
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In this episode, Kelsey sits down with Marques Ogden. Marques is hardworking and motivated — he strives to inspire people through his positive mindset and powerful story.
Marques Ogden shares how he went from living the dream as an NFL player and building a multimillion-dollar business to losing it all and rebuilding his identity and career. After overcoming failure and ego, Marques learned to embrace his authenticity, which has turned him into a renowned motivational speaker and podcaster. You won’t want to miss this authentic episode.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Marcus Ogden
03:15 The Journey from NFL to Entrepreneurship
09:49 Overcoming Adversity and Rock Bottom Moments
17:30 Mindset and Authenticity in Leadership
23:34 The Importance of Service and Relationships
30:02 Defining Authenticity and Leadership
39:12 Living Beyond Labels and Internal Values
What to Expect:
Call to Action: Listen to this episode for a reminder that even the toughest setbacks can lead to incredible growth, and see how Marques Ogden’s story might inspire you to embrace your own authenticity!
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
Connect with Marques Ogden:
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In this episode, we dive into the idea that labeling our experiences can sometimes make us wonder if our best days are behind us. We challenge the whole concept of "the best years" by chatting about how we can look at our lives through a more balanced lens rather than just a lowlight or highlight reel. Your best days are not behind you, and, no, you’re not missing them!
What to Expect:
Call to Action: Embrace a balanced perspective of your life’s experiences and chapters.
Referenced: “We cannot selectively numb emotions. When we numb the painful emotions, we also numb the positive emotions.” -Brene Brown
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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In this episode of Life Beyond Labels, we’ll talk about 10 practical ways to be kind to your mind, let go of the need for external validation, and improve your self-talk to improve your life.
What to Expect:
10 Tips to Improve Self Talk
Call to Action: Apply one of these 10 tips! Speak to yourself like you’d speak to a friend or someone you love.
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
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Welcome to Life Beyond Labels
In our VERY first episode of Life Beyond Labels, we’ll explore what it truly means to be defined by more than just our external accomplishments, roles, jobs, or titles. While we often find ourselves influenced by things like our careers or relationships, this episode will focus on embracing our authentic selves and building our identity from the inside.
What to Expect:
Call to Action: Describe people using three key things: 1) their attitude, 2) how they treat others, and 3) what makes them uniquely beautiful—their inner strengths and qualities.
Special Links:
Life Beyond Labels is brought to you by KazCM. They aim to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more at KazCM.com.
Let’s Connect!
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