Forged Youth | Legacy Within
Forged Youth: Legacy Within
What if the conversations you needed most as a teen athlete were finally being had, openly, honestly, and with purpose?
Forged Youth: Legacy Within is the podcast that equips youth athletes (ages 12–24), their parents, and coaches with the mental tools, emotional resilience, and life insight to rise above the noise and grow into strong, intentional human beings.
Each episode features real, raw conversations with professional athletes, CEOs, and cultural leaders sharing what they wish they knew when they were younger. We unpack topics like mental grit, overcoming adversity, identity beyond sport, and building a life of purpose, even when things fall apart.
Hosted by former elite athlete and mental health advocate Mariel Nichole Anderson, this podcast is your companion through the messy middle of chasing big dreams, and becoming someone even bigger in the process.
Because you weren’t born to just survive sport. You were made to be forged by it.
Forged Youth | Legacy Within
Season 1 Ep. 12 - Growing Pains - Mariel & Josh
Join Mariel and Josh on the "Probably Important Podcast" as they dive into a profound discussion about the complexities of personal growth and the journey of letting go of old ways while facing new challenges. Mariel opens up about feeling overwhelmed by her own growth, describing moments of reflection while lying in the sun and contemplating the process of continual betterment.
The conversation delves into the idea of saying goodbye to who we've been, as Mariel acknowledges the necessity of grieving the passing of former selves that have served us until now. While change can bring discomfort, Mariel finds solace and purpose in the promise of less suffering for all through her evolving understanding of self-defense.
Mariel reflects on how her approach to fighting has changed. Where she once faced threats physically, she now stands calmly within, regulating her emotions. She acknowledges that while new strategies may be unfamiliar, compassion for her protector's role eases the transition to greater wellness.
The discussion also touches on the idea of confrontation and how Mariel has learned to approach it differently. She shares a moment of calling her mother for guidance and recognizing the importance of confronting old patterns consciously rather than reactively. With tools but not plans, Mariel embraces openness to experience as she steps into challenging herself safely.
Mariel also discusses the stages of learning new skills, detailing her progression from unawareness to mastery. She is currently conscious of her new abilities but acknowledges that their automatic application requires practice and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
Throughout the conversation, Josh and Mariel explore the concept that life without discomfort is ultimately unpleasant. They agree that while discomfort can be challenging, it is essential for growth. Without it, there is a risk of stagnation and harm. They emphasize that struggles can cultivate empathy, resilience, and a sense of reward through overcoming adversity.
Tune in to the "Probably Important Podcast" for a thought-provoking conversation on personal growth, discomfort, and the rewards of embracing change.
