In this powerful and thoughtful episode of the Especially for Athletes podcast, hosts Dustin Smith and Shad Martin sit down with Cody Hagen, standout wide receiver at Brigham Young University, to discuss far more than football.

From elite performance and resilience to mental health, social media pressures, and competing without contempt, Cody offers a rare, honest look into the life of a Division I athlete navigating the sportlight with humility, faith, and purpose.

• From High School Stardom to Division I Football
  Cody reflects on his journey from Corner Canyon High School to BYU, including his experience returning from a two-year mission and rebuilding his body for elite competition.
• Training with Intentionality
  Practical advice for athletes preparing for high-level sports—especially those returning from time away—highlighting sprint work, explosive lifts, and discipline in small daily habits.
• “Eyes Up, Do the Work” in Real Life
  Cody shares how this core Especially for Athletes principle has evolved for him—from noticing others in school hallways to being fully present in meetings, workouts, and relationships at the college level.
• Winning the Hour
  A deep discussion on focus, distraction, and being where your feet are in a world full of noise—drawing parallels between E4A principles and the culture at BYU football.
• Mental Health & Social Media
  Cody speaks candidly about why he stepped away from Instagram, the emotional toll of online criticism (including hostile DMs from adults), and why even “mentally strong” athletes are affected.
• Competing Without Contempt
  Powerful insights into fan behavior, sportsmanship, and why tearing athletes down—especially after mistakes—misses the heart of competition.
• Brotherhood & Team Culture
  Cody describes the culture under Coach Kalani Sitake: fierce competition balanced with love, accountability, and care for teammates—on and off the field.
• Resilience After Disappointment
  Lessons learned from falling short of playoff goals and responding with composure, hunger, and renewed commitment during the bowl game and offseason.
• Using the Sportlight to Bless Others
  From visiting elementary schools to mentoring younger athletes, Cody embraces the opportunity—and responsibility—to lift others through his platform.

• “No one wants to succeed more than the players on the field.”
• “Even strong people are affected by what they read online.”
• “If you want to perform better than most, you have to win each hour.”
• “Everyone you see is fighting something.”

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Especially for Athletes: • Website: https://e4a.org • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ • X: https://x.com/E4Afamily • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #E4APodcast

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Credits: Hosted by Dustin Smith & Shad Martin Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

In this captivating episode of "Especially for Athletes Podcast," we have the privilege of sitting down with All-Pro NFL Safety and New England Patriot, Brenden Schooler. Join us as we dive deep into Brenden's remarkable journey, exploring the core values of work ethic, resilience, and the invaluable lessons learned both on and off the field. Brenden shares insights into his experiences playing under the legendary Bill Belichick, offering a glimpse into the mindset required to thrive in one of the most competitive environments in professional sports. From the relentless pursuit of excellence to the unwavering commitment to teamwork, Brenden's reflections on his time with the Patriots provide invaluable wisdom for athletes, parents, and coaches alike. Throughout the episode, we uncover the defining moments that have shaped Brenden's career, from overcoming setbacks to seizing opportunities with unwavering determination. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the unwavering belief in one's abilities, inspiring listeners to embrace the challenges they face with courage and resilience. Whether you're a seasoned athlete, a dedicated coach, or a supportive parent, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to unlock their full potential and achieve greatness both on and off the field. Join us as we embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment with Brenden Schooler, a true champion in every sense of the word. Key Discussion Points: • The importance of work ethic in achieving success in sports and life. • Insights into playing under the guidance of coaching legend Bill Belichick. • Overcoming adversity and bouncing back stronger than ever. • Lessons learned from triumphs and setbacks on the field. • Advice for athletes, parents, and coaches on cultivating resilience and determination. Tune in now to gain invaluable insights from one of the NFL's brightest stars

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Especially for Athletes: • Website: https://e4a.org • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ • X: https://x.com/E4Afamily • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #E4APodcast

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Credits: Hosted by Dustin Smith & Shad Martin Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

Resilience isn’t always forged in the big, dramatic moments. More often, it’s built quietly—hour by hour, decision by decision—when no one is watching. In Episode 157 of the Especially for Athletes podcast, Navy Midshipman linebacker Marcus Bleazard shares a powerful perspective on resilience that applies to every athlete, student, and leader navigating demanding seasons of life.

Marcus describes the relentless rhythm of life at the United States Naval Academy: early mornings, classes stacked back-to-back, meetings, practice, study, and doing it all again the next day. Like every athlete, he admits there are moments when motivation is thin—when the bed is warm, the weight feels heavy, or the books feel endless. What keeps him going isn’t waiting for a massive breakthrough, but learning to look for “flecks of gold” in the grind. Not every day produces a highlight-reel moment. Some days, resilience looks like finding one small win and choosing to show up anyway.

That mindset perfectly reflects one of our core principles at Especially for Athletes: Win the Hour. Marcus reminds us that resilience isn’t about loving every task—it’s about attacking the task in front of you with heart and focus. Study sessions may not feel inspiring. Practices may feel monotonous. But when athletes learn to search for small progress—one rep, one page, one assignment completed—they build momentum that compounds over time.

Throughout the episode, Marcus also reinforces the power of identity and self-talk. Injuries, setbacks, and doubt are inevitable. What matters is how we speak to ourselves in those moments. Resilience grows when we don’t negotiate with the voice that tells us to quit, but instead talk to ourselves—reminding ourselves who we are, what we’ve overcome, and why we belong. That’s resilience rooted not in hype, but in disciplined belief.

Episode 157 is a reminder that resilience isn’t flashy. It’s faithful. It’s choosing effort over excuses, love over contempt, and progress over perfection. If you’re in a season that feels repetitive, demanding, or discouraging, Marcus Bleazard’s message will help you reframe the grind and rediscover purpose in the process.

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Especially for Athletes:
• Website: https://e4a.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
• X: https://x.com/E4Afamily
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #E4APodcast

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Credits: Hosted by Dustin Smith & Shad Martin
Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

Midseason can feel heavy for girl basketball players. The excitement of the season has worn off, bodies are tired, roles may feel unclear, and confidence can quietly slip. In Episode 156 of the Especially for Athletes, former Division I player and coach Alli Bills speaks directly to athletes living in that tension—and offers perspective that is both grounding and empowering .

Alli begins with an honest challenge: “If you want to be great, you have to ask yourself—do I really want to be great?”Midseason is often when players feel discouraged by constant correction, and she reminds athletes that growth doesn’t mean you suddenly forgot how to play. “You started the season thinking you were pretty good, and by this point you feel like you can’t do anything right,” she explains. Her counsel is to pause and intentionally reconnect with what you do well. “I want you to write down all the things you know you’re great at,” she says, emphasizing that belief is the foundation of real development.

One of the most powerful parts of the conversation centers on self-talk and consistency. “You are not going to get better if you are not visualizing it or in the gym or in the weight room—it won’t happen,” Alli states plainly. She encourages athletes to build simple, repeatable routines and anchor positive self-talk to physical actions. “You cannot think of two things at once,” she teaches. “So choose the positive one.” Whether it’s at the free-throw line or during a tough practice, those routines become a mental reset button that brings confidence back when pressure is highest.

Alli also reminds players that roles matter—even when they don’t show up on the stat sheet. Sharing stories from her coaching career, she highlights athletes who may not have played much but made an enormous impact through effort, energy, and gratitude. “The impact that you can have in any role is up to you—and it can be significant,” she says. Midseason is not the time to shrink or disengage; it’s a time to lean in, prepare your body, and be ready. “When your number is called, you don’t want to question if you’re ready—you want to know you are.”

Her message to every girl basketball player is hopeful and demanding at the same time: have a vision, stay consistent, be where your feet are, and don’t fear failure. “The only true failure is not trying,” Alli reminds us. Midseason isn’t something to survive—it’s an opportunity to grow into the player and person you’re becoming. To hear Alli’s full wisdom, stories, and practical advice, we invite you to listen to Episode 156 of the Especially for Athletes podcast

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Especially for Athletes: • Website: https://e4a.org • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ • X: https://x.com/E4Afamily • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

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Credits: Hosted by Shad Martin Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

In this week’s E4A Podcast, we sat down with longtime friend and football coach Paul Peterson, who has coached hundreds of college athletes and raised five boys of his own. His message to parents: we must be more intentional.

Paul sees a growing trend—kids struggling not because they lack talent, but because well-meaning adults unintentionally teach them to rely on excuses. He put it simply: “Kids know when you’re fluffing things for them. They see right through it.” When parents blame the coach, the refs, the playing time, the system, or the circumstances, it sends a quiet but dangerous message:
“Your growth is someone else’s responsibility.”

The best parents—and the best athletes—reject that mindset.

Paul talked about the shift in modern parenting: “We used to hover. Now we snowplow—moving everything out of the way.” But adversity is not the enemy—it’s the classroom. Kids gain confidence only by facing difficulty, not being protected from it.

When a child wants to blame the environment, the coach, or the situation, Paul suggests helping them focus on the only things they can actually control: effort, attitude, preparation, and response. Those are the muscles that create resilience.

Paul shared that his sons know he loves them regardless of performance. That kind of clarity gives kids freedom to try hard, fail, learn, and try again. The best post-game conversation is often just:
“I love watching you play.”

As we discussed on the episode, kids today need the reminder:
“Perform your way into opportunity, don’t pout your way into it.”
Nothing builds character like working hard, staying ready, and letting your actions—not your frustration—speak for you.

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Especially for Athletes: • Website: https://e4a.org • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ • X: https://x.com/E4Afamily • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

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Credits: Hosted by Shad Martin Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

Ashley Matern may not be a household name—yet—but her story is one of the most powerful we’ve ever shared on the Especially for Athletes podcast.

A world-class tumbler, Ashley has faced the highest highs and the lowest lows in one of the most demanding sports in the world. After a devastating leg injury in 2023—featuring a cracked tibia and torn ligaments—most assumed her career was over. But Ashley knew she wasn’t done.

This episode dives deep into her comeback story: from missing World Championship teams since 2019… to becoming the 2024 U.S. Tumbling Champion and earning her place back on the world stage. Her message to young athletes is clear and unforgettable:

“Don’t close the door on yourself. If there’s still gas in the tank, make someone else close the door—you don’t shut it on yourself.”

Highlight Moment:

“The joy after the absolute antithesis of joy.” – a commentator, watching Ashley celebrate with her coach after her winning run.

Listen to learn:
• How Ashley handled years of coming up short—and kept going
• What it takes to return from a career-threatening injury
• The mindset of an elite athlete when the world doubts them
• Why persistence might lead to your best performance yet Watch, share, and get inspired at e4a.org

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Especially for Athletes: • Website: https://e4a.org • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ • X: https://x.com/E4Afamily • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

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Credits: Hosted by Shad Martin Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

In this powerful episode of the Especially for Athletes podcast, we sit down with NCAA National Champion Ashton Lunt (formerly Ashton Riner), whose journey from small-town athlete to BYU record-holder is as inspiring as it is instructive.

Ashton opens up about winning the 2022 national title in the javelin, the intense pressure she felt as a top-ranked athlete, and the deep personal battles she faced—especially her experience overcoming an eating disorder. She shares how routines like intentional journaling, focused time management, and affirmations helped her build confidence, recover from injury, and rediscover her fire after setbacks.

Ashton also reflects on identity, motherhood, and using her spotlight to bless others. Her message to young athletes is both honest and hopeful: your worth is not defined by your performance, and you are never alone in your struggles.

Highlight Moment:

“I went from not even making nationals to winning a national championship within a year. And I just put my head down and worked—journaled every day, focused on my cues, and reminded myself: I am Ashton freakin’ Riner.”

Listen if you want to learn:

• What it really feels like to win a national title
• How to “win the hour” and manage high-level performance with real life
• The warning signs and recovery steps for eating disorders in athletes
• Why being intentional with your spotlight can help others heal

Connect with Ashton’s journey and more E4A stories at e4a.org

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Especially for Athletes:
• Website: https://e4a.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/
• X: https://x.com/E4Afamily
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

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Credits: Hosted by Shad Martin
Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO

In this episode of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we’re joined by Ammon Montenegro and Aislee Meachum, two standout cheerleaders at Brigham Young University who are not only athletes at the top of their game, but also thoughtful leaders and examples of how to balance faith, resilience, and intentionality in a fast-paced world.

Whether you’re an aspiring college athlete, a current high school cheerleader, or someone simply trying to be more deliberate with your time and goals—this episode is packed with practical advice, vulnerability, and inspiration.

Highlight Moments

Winning the Hour
Ammon and Aislee share how they structure their jam-packed days and the tools they use—from color-coded planners to weekly resets—to stay focused and intentional.

Bouncing Back from Setbacks
Aislee opens up about tearing her ACL in high school and how that detour led to something better than she could have imagined. Ammon shares the powerful story of shifting from football to cheerleading and how going “all in” opened a door he didn’t even know was there.

Advice for High Schoolers
They reflect on what they would tell their 15-year-old selves—including the danger of closing doors out of fear, and why it’s worth being vulnerable and taking your shot.

Competing Without Contempt
From their roles at LaVell Edwards Stadium and the Marriott Center, they talk about creating loud, energized, and loving environments without falling into hate or mockery. It’s all about gratitude and respecting your opponents.

Using the Spotlight
Aislee shares what it’s like being in the spotlight and how she uses it to be a source of light for the little girls who look up to her. Ammon reflects on the power of clean, uplifting content on his social media platform (@unclebub) and why it matters to be intentional with your influence.

🎧 Don’t miss this episode if you want to:

• Build better time management habits
• Learn how to turn trials into triumph
• Understand how to thrive in your role—even if it’s not the one you imagined
• Compete with class and purpose
• Use your platform to lift and inspire others

📚 Learn more about the Especially for Athletes movement, order the book The Sportlight, or bring the program to your team or school at especiallyforathletes.org

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Especially for Athletes:• Website: https://e4a.org • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/ • X: https://x.com/E4Afamily • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/ • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ

Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast

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Credits: Hosted by Shad Martin
Produced by Shad Martin and IMAGINATE STUDIO