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About the Guest

Mary Reiss Farias is a former Division 1 gymnast, successful business owner, transformational mindset mentor, and author. A decorated collegiate gymnast from the University of Arizona, she transitioned into a dedicated coach before becoming a self-development coach. Mary is passionate about helping others reframe their self-image and achieve their full potential. She co-authored the book "Discovering Something Greater" and wrote the Gym Rat book series to inspire young gymnasts. Her journey is a testament to persistence, reinvention, and the courage to embrace new challenges beyond gymnastics.

Episode Summary

In this episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Toby Brooks engages in a compelling dialogue with Mary Reiss Farias, a remarkable former gymnast whose journey of self-discovery and growth is both inspiring and transformative. As a collegiate athlete, Mary thrived not just on the mats but also in the nurturing environment of the University of Arizona, where her passion for gymnastics was matched by her desire to excel as a person. Through a narrative that intertwines personal struggles with professional achievements, Mary shares the pivotal moments that shaped her life after gymnastics, as she transitioned to coaching and later embraced her role as a mindset mentor helping others discover their true potential.

Mary's story is one of reinvention and resilience. She vividly recounts her journey from being a gymnast to operating a successful gymnastics gym, only to bravely shut it down in pursuit of something greater—a role in self-development coaching. This interview explores the emotional challenges of identity shifts, the power of setting audacious goals, and growing through change. In the face of adversity, Mary exemplifies what it means to embrace transition and thrive in a new arena. Her journey underscores a universal theme: that while life's chapters may close, new opportunities await for those willing to step into the unknown with courage and faith.

Key Takeaways

• Self-image transformation: Mary's journey highlights the significance of altering one's self-image to embrace new roles and challenges effectively.
• Resilience and growth: She illustrates that true growth comes from consistently pursuing new goals and evolving beyond past achievements.
• Navigating transitions: Mary’s career shifts serve as a powerful lesson on the courage needed to step away from comfortable identities and into new arenas of growth.
• Belief and audacity: Her story emphasizes the power of belief in oneself and the audacity to pursue dreams regardless of challenges.
• Role of mentorship and support: The value of nurturing environments and supportive mentors is highlighted as crucial elements for achieving success.

Notable Quotes

1. "I realized I was one of the only ones who still loved the sport." – Mary Reiss Farias
2. "I had to make a major self-image shift in order to realize that it was, that wasn't me… it's okay to move on." – Mary Reiss Farias
3. "You have to act as if you're that new version of you in order for that version to come alive." – Mary Reiss Farias
4. "Our duty is to be as much as we can be in

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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About the Guest

Ryan Kalish is a former Major League Baseball player who made his mark in professional sports as a promising athlete with the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs. Known for his speed and athleticism, Kalish navigated a career punctuated with challenges, including numerous surgeries and injuries. After baseball, he transitioned into entrepreneurship, co-owning Birdman Bats, and explored therapeutic modalities, becoming a Pilates instructor. Currently, he is focused on innovative training techniques aimed at injury prevention and recovery, drawing on his experiences as a professional athlete.

Episode Summary

In this inspiring episode of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks chats with Ryan Kalish, a once-promising Major League Baseball player whose journey has been marked by incredible highs and devastating lows. From his early days as a celebrated athlete in New Jersey to his time with the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs, Kalish's story is a testament to resilience and reinvention. Despite the physical and mental toll of enduring 14 surgeries, Kalish has transformed his experiences into new opportunities, paving the way for his next chapter as an entrepreneur and innovator in fitness training.

Ryan Kalish delves into the realities of his professional baseball career, sharing candid insights into his struggles with injuries and the mental health challenges he faced after retiring from the game. His journey underscores the importance of purpose and reinvention, as he channels his competitive spirit into entrepreneurial ventures and innovative fitness methodologies. Through this compelling narrative, listeners gain a deeper understanding of what it means to confront adversity and emerge with newfound strength and insight. Kalish's openness about his journey offers invaluable lessons on finding purpose beyond setbacks, making this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration in the face of life's challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• Ryan Kalish's impressive athletic career was overshadowed by the challenges of 14 surgeries, underscoring the physical and mental resilience required to navigate professional sports.
• The transition from professional athlete to life beyond baseball involved a profound struggle with depression and a quest for renewed purpose.
• Kalish's entrepreneurial journey, including his involvement with Birdman Bats and real estate ventures, highlights his drive to find fulfillment post-baseball.
• The unique fitness concept developed by Kalish, focused on decompression and reverse methodologies, showcases his innovative approach to training and rehabilitation.
• The episode emphasizes the power of overcoming negative self-talk and the potential of pursuing groundbreaking ideas, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

Notable Quotes:

1. "What am I going to do now and what's next? Like, I don't know anything else."
2. "It was extremely difficult mentally and physically… I always had to just have this fight mentality."
3. "I felt I was invincible… and that's just not… It wasn't true."
4. "Can the reverse of a squat be useful? I shouldn't feel ashamed about asking that question."
5. "Believe your negative self-talk, and you

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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About the Guest

Carl Banks is a legendary NFL linebacker, recognized for his influential career with the New York Giants where he secured two Super Bowl championships. The #3 overall pick in the 1984 NFL Draft out of Michigan State, Banks transitioned successfully from sports to business. Currently, he serves as the president of G-III Sports, a division of G-III Apparel Group, overseeing the production of licensed apparel for major sports leagues. Banks also played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Starter Corporation, a once iconic sportswear brand, through innovative business leadership.

Episode Summary

In this engaging episode of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks sits down with NFL legend Carl Banks to delve into the story of his rise from a multi-sport athlete in Flint, Michigan to a renowned College All American, NFL All-Pro, and business leader. Brooks and Banks explore the trials and triumphs of Carl's journey, beginning with his standout college career at Michigan State, where he emerged as a Big Ten defensive standout despite playing for underperforming teams. Banks' journey is a lesson in resilience, underscored by influential mentorship, like that of NFL icon Jack Ham, who honed his skills for the professional stage.

In transitioning to the NFL's New York Giants, Carl Banks quickly cemented his status in the league with his championship spirit and fierce work ethic—a blend that went unnoticed by none, including fellow Giants like Lawrence Taylor. Beyond the gridiron, Carl's story doesn't halt; it shifts into a transformative business career where his creative passions and leadership spurred the rebirth of Starter as a pivotal brand in sports fashion. Through this insightful exchange, listeners gain a vivid understanding of Banks’ dedicated mindset and how key life lessons from sports can transfer into successful business ventures.

Key Takeaways

• Carl Banks’ journey from Flint, Michigan, to NFL stardom embodies perseverance and resilience, despite early adversities in college football.
• Influential mentorship from NFL legends like Jack Ham played a crucial role in Banks’ development and success in football.
• The transition from the NFL to business was natural for Banks, integrating his creative pursuits with leadership in sports apparel.
• Rejuvenating the Starter brand under Banks' guidance signifies his impact on sports fashion, making nostalgia relevant in contemporary markets.
• The principles of hard work and unwavering confidence are central to Carl’s career, both on and off the field.

Notable Quotes

• “I had a champion spirit, you understand? I always had great coaching, and not just great coaching, great teachers.”
• “George Perlis obviously had come from the pros, and he said to me, ‘you're a pro football player.’”
• “Lawrence Taylor practiced faster and harder than I ever played in a game in college, so I knew I had to ramp up.”
• “I just held on to my one and only call with Parcells post-draft… ‘I didn’t draft you to sit on the bench.’”
• “I knew where I stood in the Big Ten amongst players.”

Resources

• Carl Banks Instagram

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.