Send us a text

What does it take to turn childhood inspiration into Olympic glory? Join us for a riveting conversation with Olympic gold medalist Dan Jansen as he reveals his incredible journey from a young skater in Wisconsin to the pinnacle of speed skating success. Inspired by his older siblings and the legendary Eric Heiden, Dan's story is one of passion, dedication, and overcoming immense personal and professional challenges. Learn how the unique culture of speed skating in the Midwest and the presence of the only 400-meter oval in his hometown played pivotal roles in his early development and competitive racing.

Experience the highs and lows of Dan's career, as he opens up about his rigorous training, the pressure of balancing high school and international competitions, and the emotional rollercoaster of his first Olympic Games in Sarajevo. Discover the profound impact of personal tragedies, including his sister Jane's leukemia diagnosis, and how these shaped his mental approach to the sport. Dan shares the transformative moments in his career, especially his work with sports psychologist Dr. Jim Laer, which helped him overcome mental blocks and reach peak performance during the crucial seasons of 1993-1994.

Beyond the ice, Dan's life is equally inspiring. We explore his transition to training NASCAR drivers, managing a charitable foundation, and integrating sports psychology into athlete training. Dan also offers advice for aspiring skaters, insights into the evolution of speed skating equipment, and reflections on the beauty of outdoor skating. Don’t miss this compelling episode filled with personal anecdotes and valuable lessons in resilience and determination, featuring a true champion who continues to leave a lasting impact both on and off the ice.