The Ironman World Champion On Mindset, Mental Health & Motherhood | Chelsea Sodaro X Rich Roll

Rich sits down with Ironman World Champ Chelsea Sodaro to talk about honing a champion mindset, her battle with mental health & fighting for gender equity in sport. To read more about Chelsea and peruse the full show notes, go here👉🏾bit.ly/richroll800
✌🏼🌱 - Rich
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FILMED AND EDITED BY MIKE O'BRIEN, BLAKE CURTIS & DAN DRAKE
www.blakecurtis.net/
www.dandrake333.com/
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:39 The Journey into Triathlon
00:02:23 Becoming World Champion at Ironman
00:04:07 Mental Health Struggles and the 2022 Kona Race
00:09:18 The Start of the Triathlon Journey
00:10:24 Learning and Improving in Triathlon
00:11:42 Getting into the Long Course World
00:16:56 The Swimming Background and Transition to Triathlon
00:19:29 Becoming a Mom and Working with a Coach During Pregnancy
00:22:11 Approach to Data and Trust in the Coach
00:25:15 Training During Pregnancy
00:26:19 Lack of Research on Postpartum Athletes
00:29:07 Struggles with Breastfeeding and Anxiety
00:34:29 The Healing Journey
00:35:21 Training and Mental Health
00:39:58 Challenges and Victories
00:43:20 Postpartum Anxiety, Depression and Seeking Help
00:45:46 The Dissonance between Public Image and Internal Struggles
00:49:51 Addressing Issues Faced By Mothers in Society
00:52:55 The Journey of Empowerment and Support
00:53:51 The Importance of Self-Care for Women
00:55:23 The Challenges of Being a Mother and an Elite Athlete
01:00:41 The Journey to Diagnosis
01:01:52 Treatment Strategies and Medication
01:04:13 The Effectiveness of Medication
01:08:46 The Mental Warfare of Elite Athletics
01:10:08 The Response to the New York Times Article
01:12:29 Advancing the Conversation Around Mental Health and Female Equity in Sport
01:16:57 The Barriers to Entry
01:17:57 Equal Representation and Qualification Process
01:20:34 Improvements Needed in the Sport
01:25:25 The Importance of a Mentor
01:27:02 The Power of Setting Goals
01:29:46 Rejecting the Idea of a Balanced Life
01:33:27 The Challenges of Managing a Career and Personal Life
01:34:01 The Importance of Support and Acceptance
01:35:29 The Evolving Career and Finding Balance
01:41:40 The Mental Game and the Full Package
01:43:15 Working on the Mental Game
01:46:01 Making Choices Based on Joy, Love, and Optimism
01:49:45 Credits
* * * * *
NEW TO RICH?
Hi I'm Rich Roll. I'm a vegan ultra-endurance athlete, author, podcaster, public speaker & wellness evangelist. But mainly I'm a dad of four. If you want to know more, visit my website or check out these two the NY Times articles:
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[@m.taylor1842]

I cried watching this. I was caught off- guard. I didn’t know where this was headed (I thought I’d learn about triathlon) but I cannot stress the importance of this conversation. I ache for Chelsea. I also had a lack of support after delivering my son 2 months early after a very scary pregnancy. I was talked out of my maternity leave, went back to work 90 hrs / week at 4 days postpartum, told I was not able to pump, had no medical or mental health support. And here’s the thing, I was an OBGYN resident. I trusted they had my best interests at heart, how could they not? I worked so hard, I was so sick, and so sad, and had no where safe to turn. And this was 12 yrs ago. My heart still hurts with sadness and regret, it’s a part of me now. But I was IN the medical field, and suffering at the hands of experienced physicians (in retrospect this can only be described as a form of abuse). I accept my role in this and not being a better self - advocate, but I was young and I didn’t know. I didn’t know what I was up against. Looking back is painful. Healing is ongoing. Year by year. Thank you for talking about this. And I wish healing for all moms who suffered.

[@lilyw.1788]

Isn’t that the truth about medical professions . As an RPH, standing 11-12 hrs on our feet and no set lunch break and we are groomed to be there for the sick patients even if we are not feeling well. Pharmacists having heart attacks at work because they can’t leave until someone shows up to relieve our shift. We are the best advocates for our own health. Our health comes first , the job can wait .

[@carolgerber6375]

Thank you sooooo much for having guests talk about mental health. Such an empowering and well needed topic that needs to be talked about openly. ❤

[@laurarice3944]

Oh this conversation made me cry and I’m not even a mom. I’m just so amazed by what Chelsea has achieved and gone through. The “you could win this one day” gave me literal chills. Thanks for this ❤

[@mandym8781]

This was my first time hearing of Chelsea - what a great conversation. I love her honesty, vulnerability, and confidence ❤️

[@zontemonte]

I came here for another podcast about triathlon but this episode surpassed all of my expectations. Completely mind blowing and so fulfilling! Thank you both for having this, just amazing honestly.

[@54cuatro]

To see again and again, keep it as a favorite, and watch it whenever needed. Chelsea is a great inspiration for everyone.

[@fabfabi70]

The shorter more dynamic intro looks great!

[@froids]

Awesome conversation! Thanks to both... Respect 🙌 Cheers

[@ishitamalik8638]

So much to look up to in both these people. You always leave me in awe with these Rich. Thank you again.

[@triapromagtri68]

great athlete , super humble and amazing person

[@margaretmargaret6582]

Bravo for your bravery in bringing many things to light! I'm a pro athlete who has had a pretty catastrophic injury - and can't find mental health help who understands this - I live close to Reno and wishing could find the person you worked wirh

[@kcc937]

Thanks for interviewing Chelsea. Love how much more vocal some of the pros are lately in bringing real issues all women have to a greater stage. Rich, best YT and podcast out there.

[@tiredmomruns]

Such an amazing interview. Hit close to home this one

[@mistershickadance3379]

Two of my favorite people. Thank you both for this conversation!

[@workingfrocks5121]

Such a great conversation, thank you. Also love the Winston Churchill quote, "Success is going from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm (inbetween)". And such a gorgeous ending. Thanks!

[@JJOK1818-okthen]

Excellent- important to talk about post natal depression & the lack of resources for mental health issues across the board - USA & UK is the same there.

[@brookie_cuqui]

What a total boss and what a heartfelt thank you. Completely inspired 🎉🎉

[@NonAstrologer1]

Chelsea is an inspiration and role model for athletes, parents, women, and men alike.

[@ReneeMcKay-vc6pm]

Incredible conversation as always and Rich, long hair, short hair, shaved head......doesn't matter you're the best!!

[@candace.coffman]

Wow! Yes, this hit close to home.

[@gijswaterschoot2448]

Thanks so much for this inspiring episode!

[@cyclingfreak56]

Speak your truth even if your voice shakes. What an awesome honest human! ✌️💕🚴‍♀️

[@HomesHealthGatitude]

I’m so excited to watch this

[@triapromagtri68]

The ending was so beautiful

[@catherinekasmer9905]

My favorite episode ever! Wonderful discussion of mental health and our health care system- the challenges in getting care, the fact that many of us simply can’t afford mental health care…. And women’s issues and the need for women in leadership. We need 50%+ women in leadership in business, government and education. Things are very skewed in our world. Even if you don’t have a clinical diagnosis, with the insane violence and greed in our world, I think it is a natural response to feel anxiety and disturbance. I worked in elementary schools for 14 years and I found the drills and lockdowns to be extremely disturbing. The responses of the children were not normal. You can’t normalize this situation. Sure, we need to be able to go to the grocery store or to school…. But the fact is we are having multiple mass shootings every day. It’s even worse if you count the shootings of 1,2 or 3 people. Yeah, I think it’s just being truthful to acknowledge that our happiness is diminished profoundly by the constant threat of violence and wars in our world. And yeah, we women are experiencing some of it more than men and at the hands of men. As a 63 year old recreational runner I can say that I simply can’t run by myself in the same areas that my husband does. I’m in the Chicago area. No way do women enjoy the same freedom as men. I really appreciate this conversation. The inequity does not end with motherhood- it extends into every area.

[@mariafernandadiazpescador7396]

Loved the interview!!! ❤️

[@_don_jean_]

Thanks for sharing Chelsea.

[@tblightningbolt8902]

What about Lucy Charles Barclay?!? Why haven’t you had her on.

[@itsDGW]

Great message

[@annaliesmith8699]

Amazing

[@dameanvil]

00:27 🏆 After becoming an Ironman World Champion, Chelsea Sodaro felt the pressure of being a "super mom" and realized success didn't guarantee happiness. 01:24 🌟 Chelsea's journey reflects ongoing struggles, but she's determined to show her daughter the value of pursuing dreams wholeheartedly. 02:47 🌍 Chelsea's groundbreaking win at Ironman Kona 2022 marked a pivotal moment in her career and life, despite challenges behind the scenes. 04:22 💪 Overcoming mental health struggles post-Kona victory, Chelsea found strength in her disappointments, highlighting growth amid setbacks. 05:45 🏅 Despite placing sixth at Kona, Chelsea takes pride in giving her all and showing champion-like resilience during the race. 07:23 🏊‍♂ Chelsea's drive in triathlon stems from her curiosity about her mind and body's potential, embracing the sport as a second chance at a pro career. 08:43 🔄 Transitioning from running to triathlon, Chelsea's switch came after injury setbacks in track and field, influenced by her husband's encouragement. 11:00 🚴‍♀ Chelsea found quick progress in triathlon, enjoying substantial gains in swimming and biking compared to the slower pace of improvement in running. 16:28 🌟 Encouraged by a coach's belief in her potential, Chelsea received empowering validation early in her triathlon journey. 19:38 👶 Balancing pregnancy and training, Chelsea's coach's rare support during her pregnancy established a foundation of trust and understanding. 22:49 🤔 Pregnancy isn't one-size-fits-all for athletes; it's about listening to your body and adapting training. 24:14 🤰 Pregnancy wasn't a break; physical changes challenged training routines, needing adjustments. 26:28 🏥 Health care systems lack support for postpartum female athletes, requiring self-advocacy and seeking specialized help. 27:37 💪 Pressure to return to sports post-pregnancy due to financial concerns intensified challenges. 29:39 😔 Postpartum challenges extended beyond physical, leading to severe anxiety; seeking help was difficult. 32:39 🤯 Accessing mental health support postpartum was a challenging maze within the healthcare system. 34:01 🚫 Seeking mental health support met with judgment and lack of validation, hindering the healing process. 36:59 💡 Believing training would solve everything didn't suffice; recognizing the need for deeper help. 39:43 🏆 Winning despite facing numerous personal challenges highlighted the strength beyond obstacles. 41:45 🗣 Choosing transparency about struggles aimed to help others and break mental health stigma. 45:56 🌟 Sharing personal struggles integrated public and private self, easing the internal dissonance. 46:22 🤝 Becoming open about personal challenges connected with others, creating a community of support. 47:25 🏟 Gender equity in sports, especially regarding professional aspects, remains a significant issue, highlighted by discrepancies in maternity leave policies, gender pay gaps, and maternal mortality rates. 48:07 🤯 Chelsea Sodaro's mental health struggles originated from motherhood but expanded into broader conversations about normalizing internal struggles and the societal need for better support systems. 49:27 💼 Sports serve as microcosms reflecting broader societal issues, advocating for better practices within the sports industry to influence other sectors positively. 50:22 🌍 Perception of equitable treatment in triathlons often falls short upon closer inspection due to undisclosed maternity leave policies, financial repercussions during pregnancy, and limited support for female athletes. 51:56 🚴‍♀ Chelsea Sodaro's triumph as a new mother and Ironman World Champion showcased the potential value of athletes beyond their athletic achievements, transcending sport narratives and engaging wider audiences. 53:29 💡 Narratives and personal stories matter as much as podium placements in sports; athletes sharing their journeys humanizes the sport and helps fans connect on a deeper level. 54:49 🧘‍♀ Chelsea's experiences highlight the importance of self-care for mothers, advocating for personal pursuits beyond parenting to maintain mental well-being. 55:32 🤔 The inquiry into balancing motherhood and elite athleticism reflects a nuanced conversation, often framed differently for female athletes, indicating a need for delicacy in addressing these complexities. 56:42 🌟 Chelsea Sodaro's support system, particularly her husband's commitment, played a pivotal role in navigating challenges and sustaining her career in elite athletics while being a parent. 58:19 🔦 Seeking help for mental health struggles led Chelsea to acknowledge her condition and pursue effective treatment, emphasizing the challenges of accessing mental health resources. 01:01:08 🧠 Diagnosed with OCD, Chelsea recognized the impact of obsessive thoughts on her life, underscoring the complexity and misconceptions about mental health conditions. 01:03:13 🌱 Overcoming the stigma of mental health medication, Chelsea's journey highlights the importance of finding sustainable, healthy coping strategies, dispelling myths around treatment and personal identity. 01:07:37 🌈 Chelsea's motivation for seeking help stemmed from a desire to be present and joyful for her daughter, revealing the broader impact of untreated mental health struggles on loved ones. 01:08:58 📢 Using her platform, Chelsea discussed her mental health struggles, acknowledging the societal challenges in accessing mental health care and the importance of sharing experiences to reduce stigma. 01:10:49 🌟 Amid personal struggles, Chelsea engaged in philanthropy, highlighting her resilience and determination to support causes important to her despite challenging circumstances. 01:11:30 🚴 Supporting mother athletes: Chelsea Sodaro partnered with Canyon, creating a race bike to raise awareness and funds for postpartum female athletes. 01:15:22 🤱 Lactation stations & childcare: Sodaro highlights the need for these facilities at races, reducing barriers for mothers in sports. 01:18:06 🏃‍♀ Women's race separation: Separating races at elite levels offers women a dedicated spotlight, elevating their presence in triathlons and similar events. 01:20:38 🌟 Equity-driven changes: Sodaro advocates for standard maternity policies, fair race deferrals for pregnant athletes, seeking a more inclusive triathlon community. 01:23:09 🧘‍♀ Mental game strategy: Sodaro explores mindfulness practices like diaphragmatic breathing and the challenge of creating a work-life balance within the intense training schedule. 01:27:01 📝 Goal visualization: Using a bathroom mirror to display reminders and mantras, Sodaro emphasizes the importance of aligning priorities and staying grounded amidst distractions. 01:30:03 🌟 Embracing extremes: Rejecting societal pressure for a perfectly balanced life, Sodaro champions presence in what matters most, even if it means embracing life's unbalanced nature. 01:33:58 🧠 Finding balance in mental health while pursuing a career post-motherhood is challenging but crucial; acknowledging support systems and prioritizing values helps manage this. 01:34:40 🤔 Success in your 30s brings a different perspective and appreciation for opportunities compared to earlier career stages, but balancing career demands with family time remains a constant challenge. 01:35:37 🌟 Achieving success doesn't lessen ambition, but it brings a sense of freedom to enjoy the journey and explore possibilities without the pressure of unmet goals. 01:36:31 🚴‍♀ Mark Cavendish's approach to mental health, happiness, and distancing from external expectations resonates with finding contentmentand peace within personal achievements. 01:38:32 🤱 Balancing career success and the desire for dedicated family time fuels a goal for future freedom to fully immerse in motherhood without work or training commitments. 01:39:25 🚵‍♀ Preparing for the upcoming world championships involves a significant bike-related project, focusing on improving cycling performance despite criticism. 01:40:21 🏊‍♀ In today's competitive triathlon landscape, excelling across all three disciplines-swimming, biking, and running-is essential; weaknesses are less tolerated in the current field. 01:42:13 🧠 Confidence in physical ability stems from relentless training, yet continuous work is needed on the mental game to unlock further potential. 01:43:23 🧘‍♂ Seeking the expertise of a sports psychologist like Dr. David Spindler shows an active effort to enhancemental performance and overcome mental barriers in pursuit of peak performance. 01:46:05 🤔 Making life choices based on joy, love, and optimism rather than fear has been pivotal, fostering a purpose-driven and fulfilling life, despite occasional failures.

[@vincentkrause7097]

Wow😮

[@erikavaleries]

Clips channel soon?

[@ricardofuentes627]

SINCERITY

[@DJSTOEK]

❤❤❤❤

[@user-gy3vp2uy4r]

Тут живёт много французов и японцев.

[@user-gy3vp2uy4r]

In winter, I go skating

[@shirleymcmac8594]

Thank you Rich for changing the video title for this and the short. It was clickbait and demeaning. Especially for a super woman like Chelsea. You are way better than that. I love you and please continue to get these wonderful guests. You are the best at this. Also, please don't ever say 'squirt' in reference to childbirth, especially to a woman. 😮 LOL! IMHO.

[@tblightningbolt8902]

Go away Karen

[@CoolInOlympia]

What in the world is going on with Rich's hair??? Great guest!!!!

[@richroll]

I’m wondering the same thing. What should I do?

[@richardkish4002]

Hey, Rich ... for starters, you have a good head of hair. What to do now? Cut it relatively short. Third: please no more baseball hats@@richroll

[@shartmann2008]

I'm so angry for you. The world should have been supporting you. Alicia Montano and Kara Goucher are amazing voices.

[@cnaustin1]

Her husband is a stay at home dad. How does that make her a super mom? Seriously guys.

[@soonneyinjules]

Is there an example of someone who accomplished a lot completely on their own? Every time I tune into this podcast the guest always has a loving supportive partner, which is great but not relatable. I want to hear about a true loner.

[@corrywhitteker9002]

I can relate to your question.

[@christianemeiners9224]

You lost me at Gun Control 🤦‍♀️