Kara Campbell has never known life without sports. From t-ball to college volleyball, and now as a head athletic trainer, she’s always been surrounded by athletes—and still proudly identifies as one. In this conversation, Kara reflects on what it means to carry the athlete identity long after your own playing days end. We talk about the bittersweet transition from being on the court to supporting from the sidelines, the struggle to find motivation without a team or season ahead, and how she continues to “live it” through the athletes she serves today. Kara’s story is a powerful reminder that there’s no single way to define being an athlete—and that identity can evolve without ever disappearing.

From D3 football to 100-mile ultra marathons — meet Toan Nguyen.

In this episode of No Former Athlete, Toan shares how he went from playing football and basketball in college to becoming a long-distance runner chasing ultra endurance goals. He opens up about his athlete identity, how a concussion changed his outlook on health, and why he believes movement is medicine.

Subscribe for more athlete stories redefining what it means to compete — beyond the scoreboard.

What happens when a high school hallway conversation launches a Division I basketball career? In this powerful episode, Nina shares her incredible journey from picking up a basketball for the first time as a freshman to competing against legends like Cheryl Miller and starting on one of the top teams in the nation.

With honesty, humor, and humility, Nina reflects on the evolution of women’s sports, the joy of playing with and against Olympians, and the lasting life lessons she carried into motherhood, career, and beyond. From packed gyms in the ‘80s to raising the next generation of athletes, this is a story of growth, grit, and giving back.

Whether you’re a lifelong athlete or just love a great underdog story, this one will leave you inspired.