Rowdy Gaines: Gold Medals and Gifts Money Can’t Buy

In the 1984 Summer Olympics, Rowdy Gaines captured hearts around the world—and three gold medals in the pool. But for Rowdy, his Olympic triumphs are just one chapter in a much bigger story. In this week’s episode, the legendary swimmer opens up about the moments that shaped him: the discipline of elite competition, the unexpected turns of life before and after gold, and the personal journey that led him to faith and family.

3:55- Discovering an Incredible Talent
7:05- An Olympic Boycott and Four More Years
11:14- Being an Olympian
15:00- Mental Vs. Medal
16:31- Finding True Love at a Gas Station in Vegas
20:50- Judy’s Conversion
23:17- Rowdy’s Conversion
29:32- Guillain-Barré Syndrome
31:23- USA Swimming Community
33:10- Feeling the Lord’s Love
36:46- The Olympic Spirit
39:39- What Does It Mean To Be All In the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

“I never said I was perfect in swimming but one thing I was, I was consistent. …Don’t worry about being perfect, just worry about being consistent. And that’s what I try to work on with the gospel is just trying to work on the consistency…”

Links:
Video of Rowdy’s Olympic Individual Medal: 1984 Olympic Games - Men's 100 Meter Freestyle westnyacktwins•152K views•11 years ago

Arthur Brooks article (behind paywall): The New York Times https://www.nytimes.comScottie Scheffler raised questions about happiness and fulfillment. This ...

McKay Coppins piece following President Nelson’s passing: The Atlantic https://www.theatlantic.comA Prophet's Diagnosis

Recent Editorial by Rowdy Gaines: https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/rowdy-gaines-i-stand-with-michael-phelps-im-fighting-too/

Grand Blanc Bishop following Michigan tragedy: Bishop of Michigan Congregation Speaks About Tragic Shooting Church Newsroom•84K views•3 weeks ago