27. Galen Rupp - 3x Olympian, American Distance Runner

3x Olympian and one of the most highly decorated American Long Distance Runners of all time, Galen Rupp joins today’s show. Galen has proven himself as one of the most dominant, successful and enduring American runners in history. His collegiate career at the University of Oregon was punctuated by 5 NCAA Track and Field Division 1 National Championships in 2009 following a Cross Country National Championship in 2008 prior to his first Olympics. Galen has competed in the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Olympics and, prior to cancellations due to COVID, secured his spot for the 2021 Olympics by winning the US Olympic Trials for the Marathon. Galen is still the holder of numerous American records and in 2017 was notably the first American-born runner to win the Chicago Marathon since 1982. In today’s show Galen describes the pursuit of excellence that keeps him motivated. Why he hates the saying “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it”. How being a perfectionist is both a blessing and a curse. The importance of having a tight knit inner circle for navigating the ups and downs of a prominent athletic career. How a sports psychologist helped him persevere through the mental side of racing. The importance of breaking overwhelming tasks into small incremental goals. The case for putting yourself in bad situations in training and the power of being present to help you persevere. Confirmation that behind every great man is a great woman and the importance of making the most of the moments you have at home. Mentioned in the show: Books: Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds By: David Goggins   Follow The Professional Athlete Podcast with Ken Gunter: Instagram: @the_professionalathlete Website: https://www.kengunter.com/ YouTube: Ken Gunter https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRhgjkoSiJXAbS_MIasvvzQ/ Produced By: Justin Gunter, Ken Gunter Music By: Justin Gunter, Ken Gunter