In this powerful episode of Athlete Mindset, “Who You Are, Not What You Do,” host Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, welcomes Kelsey O’Connor, a motivational speaker, former D1 student-athlete, and recent North Carolina State University social work graduate. Kelsey shares her inspiring journey of resilience and self-discovery following a career-ending head injury. Her story of overcoming adversity and redefining her identity resonated with millions when her
commencement speech went viral, amassing over 40 million views across TikTok and many social media platforms.
This is the Athlete Mindset podcast, which explores mental health in sports. It is presented and produced by SportsE Media as part of the podcast network.
‘Who You Are, Not What You Do with Kelsey O’Connor’ Highlights:
Kelsey’s background in softball and her journey to becoming a D1 athlete at NC State
The traumatic head injury that abruptly ended her athletic career and its impact on her identity
Kelsey’s struggle with recovery and the process of rebuilding her sense of self
The importance of faith, family, and service in Kelsey’s life and recovery
Kelsey’s viral commencement speech and its message about identity beyond performance
The transition from athlete to advocate and motivational speaker
Kelsey’s commitment to mental health advocacy for student-athletes and her pursuit of further education in social work and mental performance counseling
The power of resilience and the importance of defining oneself beyond titles and achievements
About Kelsey O’Connor: Kelsey O’Connor is a motivational speaker and recent social work graduate from North Carolina State University. After recovering from a head injury that ended her D1 softball career, Kelsey found a new purpose in sharing her story and perspective with others. Her commencement speech, which went viral with over 40 million views, touched on themes of identity, resilience, and personal growth. Kelsey now travels the country, speaking to organizations and teams about building confidence, developing a strong identity, and improving team culture.
Kelsey’s mission: To help individuals and teams boost confidence, build strong identities, and improve team culture by sharing her unique perspective on identity and resilience. Through her talks, Kelsey aims to remind people that their worth is not defined by their achievements or titles, but by the qualities that truly matter.
Listen to Kelsey O’Connor’s podcast,
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Athlete Mindset is part of the podcast network SportsE Media
SportsE Media is a sports media platform and production company that connects entrepreneurs, executives, athletes, and fans. It focuses on sports, entrepreneurship, mental health, and media.
https://sportsepreneur.com/
Athlete Mindset is also a part of QuietLoud Studios
QuietLoud Studios is the podcast network where reflection and voice come together.
https://quietloudstudios.com/
Athlete Mindset is produced by the team at KazCM
KazCM is a B2B content production company that builds assets and drives revenue by writing and talking. If you are looking to create a podcast,
