Date: 4/29/25

The Vintage Athlete Podcast: Doing Life After Sports

Episode 12: You’re Not Lazy—You’re Disoriented: Why Former Athletes Struggle with Stillness

In this episode of the Vintage Athlete Podcast, Tara Fortier explores the challenges that former athletes face in transitioning to a life of mindfulness and stillness after sports. She discusses the discomfort associated with stillness, the importance of reconditioning the nervous system, and the role of mindfulness in personal growth and healing. The episode emphasizes that stillness is a strength, not a weakness, and invites listeners to engage in self-reflection and consider the benefits of mindfulness practices.

Curious about addressing your new relationship with stillness, but have no idea where to start? Check out The Mediation Playbook, a self-paced course where I hold your hand and introduce you to meditation and how to build a sustainable practice. Ready to take that first step? Click here!

Chapters

00:00 The Athlete Mindset and Fear of Stillness

04:08 Understanding the Struggle with Stillness

05:10 Nervous System Conditioning

06:19 Self-Reflection

10:07 Learning Stillness Through Mindfulness and Meditation

11:19 Quick Breathing Practice

13:16 Embracing Stillness and Its Benefits

Date: 4/1/25

The Vintage Athlete Podcast: Doing Life After Sports

Episode 11: 5 Meditation Myths Former Athletes Need to Stop Believing

Meditation? For athletes? Yeah, I already know what you're thinking.

If you’re rolling your eyes at the idea of sitting still and "doing nothing," you’re not alone. Most former athletes dismiss meditation before they even give it a shot. But guess what? That mindset is holding you back from some serious mental gains.

In this episode of The Vintage Athlete Podcast, we’re busting the five biggest meditation myths that are keeping former athletes from unlocking better focus, mental resilience, and overall well-being. Spoiler alert: Meditation isn’t just about stress relief, you don’t need to sit still for hours, and no—it’s not a religious practice.

Here’s what we’re covering:
🏆 Why meditation is more than just “relaxation” (it’s mental strength training)
⏳ The truth about time—why 5 minutes is all you need
🎯 How meditation can sharpen your focus just like your old training days
🚫 Why meditation isn’t a quick fix—but why it’s worth sticking with
🙏 And no, you don’t have to be religious to meditate

By the end of this episode, you’ll see meditation in a whole new light—and maybe even give it a try (just saying!).

🔥 Ready to get started? Check out The Meditation Playbook—my course designed specifically for former athletes who want to build a meditation habit without the fluff. Grab it here: The Meditation Playbook

And if you love this episode, share it with a former teammate who needs to hear it!

🎧 Listen now and let’s break these meditation myths for good.

Date: 12/31/24

The Vintage Athlete Podcast: Doing Life After Sports

Episode 10: What’s Next?: Overcoming the Athlete Identity Crisis

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Vintage Athlete Podcast, Tara Fortier explores the concept of the athlete identity crisis, a common experience for retired athletes who struggle with their sense of self after leaving their sport. She discusses the emotional challenges faced during this transition, including feelings of loss, anxiety, and a lack of purpose. Tara provides practical strategies for overcoming these challenges, emphasizing the importance of value-based living, reconnecting with hobbies, and building new routines. The episode encourages listeners to redefine their identity beyond their athletic achievements and to embrace the journey of personal growth.

Chapters

00:00 What’s Next?: Overcoming the Athlete Identity Crisis

02:24 Defining an Athlete Identity Crisis

03:36 Why an Athlete Identity Crisis Happens

06:53 Overcoming the Athlete Identity Crisis

Links from Episode:

FREE Values Tool:

https://www.vintageathlete.org/values

FREE Guided Meditation:

https://www.vintageathlete.org/athlete-identity-meditation