Becoming UnDone
Hosted by professor, speaker, and performance & comeback scientist Dr. Toby Brooks (@tobybrooksphd), Becoming UnDone is where high-achievers come to reckon with rock bottom—and rise again. Every week, we explore what happens when life doesn’t go according to plan. Through raw stories, vulnerable insights, and powerful conversations, we dive into the pain of identity loss, the paralysis of burnout, and the transformative power of coming apart.This isn’t just about failure. It’s about what you do next.Whether you’re an executive questioning your purpose, an athlete facing the end, or a leader secretly unraveling, this show is your re...
160 | Living the Dream, Working with NBA Stars, and Building a Brand on Your Terms with Dr. Tyler Lesher
About the Guest
Dr. Tyler Lesher is an accomplished NBA performance therapist and former athletic trainer. With a diverse background that spans working with elite teams like the Cavaliers, Hornets, and UCLA, Tyler's experience in athletic performance and sports medicine is extensive. He has been involved in developing high-performance training regimens for athletes across various levels and sports, leveraging his expertise to also build a substantial online presence and business. Tyler's transition from his traditional role into a more entrepreneurial space is a testament to his innovative approach and dedication to the industry.
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159 | The Art of Discipline: Dre Baldwin’s Blueprint for Success
About the Guest
Dre Baldwin, also known as Dre All Day, is a former professional basketball player turned entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker. With a nine-year career in professional basketball, Dre has transitioned into a highly influential voice in mindset development, discipline, and mental toughness. He is the founder of “Work on Your Game,” a company providing tools and techniques for personal development and success. Dre has authored several books and conducts workshops focusing on confidence-building, entrepreneurial pursuits, and performance improvement.
Episode Summary
In this insightful episode of Becoming UnDone® with host...
158 | Unravel Your Guilt: The Hidden Power of Embracing the Fourth Quarter: W3W
About the Host
Dr. Toby Brooks is a renowned professor, author, speaker, and performance scientist with over 20 years of experience as an athletic trainer and strength coach, spanning professional, college, and high school levels. His current focus lies in studying high achievers, understanding their unique attributes, and how setbacks can be transformed into success. As the host of the podcast Becoming UnDone® , Toby shares insights and lessons from his extensive career, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of personal growth and achievement.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Becoming UnDone® ,...
157 | Finding Identity Beyond Achievement: Courtney Beck Dreams Big, Goes Bold
About the Guest
Courtney Beck is a former elite gymnast and NCAA All-American at the University of Florida, where she was a part of two SEC championship teams. A high achiever in academics as well, she has earned multiple master's degrees and a PhD in sport management. In addition to her impressive athletic and academic achievements, Courtney is a corporate leader and founder of the "Plenty of Positivity" podcast. Currently, she serves as an adjunct professor and is an esteemed voice on positivity and resilience, focusing on community building and personal development.
Episode...
156 | The Concussion That Changed Everything: Dr. Shawn Eagle's Path to Purpose
About the Guest
Dr. Shawn Eagle is an assistant professor in the Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh, where he is regarded as a global expert on concussion and traumatic brain injury. With more than 150 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Eagle’s work has significantly influenced how concussion and brain injuries are understood, treated, and recovered from. His journey from a collegiate athlete suffering injuries to a prominent researcher underscores his dedication to improving athletes' lives and health outcomes through cutting-edge research.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Becoming Un...
155 | Transforming Trials into Triumphs: US Olympian Sarah Warren's Journey to Becoming Undone
About the Guest
Sarah Warren is a U.S. Olympic speed skater who competed in the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games. Before embarking on her skating career, Sarah was a Division 1 soccer player at the University of Illinois. Her journey to the Olympics was marked by resilience and determination, overcoming ten surgeries, including multiple ACL surgeries. Beyond her athletic endeavors, Sarah has aspirations of becoming an orthopedic surgeon, inspired by the impact of her own medical experiences.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks delves into the inspiring j...
154 | Courageous Career Changes: Embracing Uncertainty and New Beginnings with Pastor & Coach Chris McCormick
About the Guest
Chris McCormick is a former Division 1 strength and conditioning coach who worked at Gardner-Webb University and Florida Atlantic University. Throughout his career, he played a crucial role in athlete preparation and development, initially with aspirations of ascending to an Athletic Director role. However, McCormick's journey took an unexpected turn when he transitioned from collegiate sports to full-time ministry. Today, he serves as the lead pastor at Reliant Church, passionately investing in spiritual growth and fostering community, leveraging his strengths as a coach to guide his congregation.
Episode Summary
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153 | Matt Sayman's Journey from Baylor Basketball Scandal to Redemption
About the Guest
Matt Sayman is the head boys basketball coach at Midway High School in Waco, Texas, and a former professional basketball player in Iceland. Previously, he played collegiate basketball at Baylor University during one of its most tumultuous periods, amidst a major scandal. He is the author of "The Leftovers: Baylor, Betrayal, and Beyond," which chronicles his experiences during this challenging period. Additionally, Sayman was a Division 1 athlete who played a significant role in the challenging 2003-2004 Baylor basketball season.
Episode Summary
Join Toby Brooks in this episode of <...
152 | Navigating Grief and Identity After Life's Unexpected Changes with Sports Chaplain Roger Lipe
About the Guest
Roger Lipe is a seasoned sports chaplain and ministry leader with over 30 years of experience, primarily working with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale. Throughout his career, he has dedicated his life to providing pastoral care and guidance to athletes, coaches, and sports teams, assisting them through both triumphs and challenges. Recently, after a series of personal trials and the passing of his wife, Sharon, Roger has stepped into a new chapter of his life, focusing on mentoring and supporting leaders in the sports and sports ministry landscape.<...
151 | Breaking Free from Destination Addiction: Embrace the Present Moment
About the Host
Dr. Toby Brooks is a renowned professor, author, speaker, and performance scientist. With over two decades of experience working with elite athletes and high achievers, he specializes in performance psychology and resilience training. Dr. Brooks is the creator of the Science of the Comeback, an approach designed to help individuals navigate transitions and rebuild their identities after setbacks. He also hosts the podcast Becoming UnDone®, where he delves into the stories of individuals who have faced and overcome significant challenges.
Episode Summary
In this engaging episode of Becoming UnDone®, Dr. To...
150 | Vonn & Liu: Two Olympians, Two Comebacks. Grit Meets Freedom in Olympic Dreams
About the Host
Dr. Toby Brooks is the host of Becoming UnDone®, a podcast that delves into the stories of high achievers who have navigated failures and setbacks on their path to success. With a strong background in performance science, Brooks is dedicated to helping individuals rebuild their identities and develop resilience through his app, Science of the Comeback. He is also actively engaged in personal coaching and engaging keynote speaking, offering insights drawn from his own experiences and those of his podcast guests.
Episode Summary
In this episode of B...
149 | Caught in the Spotlight: Secrets of a Celebrity Business Manager with Jonathan Schwartz
About the Guest
Jonathan Schwartz is a former top-tier entertainment business manager who was prominently recognized for managing the fortunes of A-list celebrity clients, including globally iconic artists like Beyonce, Alanis Morissette, and Mariah Carey. In his career pinnacle, he was deeply entrenched as a trusted advisor in rooms that many can only imagine. However, his life took a drastic turn when his gambling addiction and subsequent criminal activities resulted in a six-year federal prison sentence for embezzling millions. From that downfall, Jonathan has since rebuilt his life, becoming a marriage and family therapist specializing...
148 | From Pro Athlete to CEO: The Science of Reinvention with Idris Haroon
About the Guest
Idris Haroon is a former professional football player who had a noteworthy journey through college and professional sports. He played as a defensive lineman at the University of Arizona and later in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Post his athletic career, Haroon transitioned into the business world, leveraging his leadership and teamwork skills to excel in corporate America. He now serves as an executive and entrepreneur, founding DWD Moving Services, a logistics company that specializes in niche markets like research lab and college coach relocations. As an advocate...
147 | The Quiet Power of Consistently Showing Up for Growth
About the Host
Toby Brooks, PhD is the host of the Becoming UnDone® podcast, a speaker, author, performance scientist, and professor. With two decades of experience in the professional and collegiate sports realms, Dr. Brooks specializes in understanding what sets high achievers apart. He serves Baylor University, although the podcast operates independently as an avenue for sharing his research and insights on the mindset necessary for achieving excellence.
Episode Summary
In this rejuvenating episode of Becoming UnDone®, Dr. Toby Brooks delves into the transformative power of consistently sh...
146 | Brandon McCoy: Turning Passion for Custom Paint into a Thriving Career
About the Guest
Brandon McCoy is a distinguished custom paint artist and graphic designer based out of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Known professionally as Gooch Customs, Brandon has garnered a nationwide reputation for his unique approach to car graphics, pinstriping, and mixed media art. His journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a respected name in the automotive art scene highlights his dedication and passion. With a style deeply rooted in '90s mini-truck culture, his work spans from custom vehicles to viral objects like intricately designed toilets that capture a nostalgic yet contemporary aesthetic. Brandon's...
145 | From Abuse to Advocacy: Maxwell Leadership Mentor & Entrepreneur Marissa Nehlsen's Journey to Empowerment
About the Guest
Marissa Nehlsen is a renowned financial strategist, transformational coach, and motivational speaker recognized for her journey from impoverished roots to managing billions in assets. Born into generational poverty and raised in a home rife with trauma and dysfunction, she forged a path of resilience, later becoming a powerhouse in the financial industry. Beyond her role as a financial expert, Marissa is a member of the John Maxwell leadership team and an author of the book "Live Life Rich." She is passionate about empowering others through her journey of overcoming adversity to achieve...
144 | Nadalie Walsh: Embracing Change and Championing Mental Wellness in Gymnastics
About the Guest
Nadalie Walsh is a seasoned former NCAA Division 1 gymnastics coach known for her servant leadership style and transformative impact on athletes and teams. With a history of coaching at various universities like the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Ball State, Utah State, and the University of Illinois, Nadalie's coaching career is distinguished by dedication, resilience, and a commitment to mental wellness. As a coach, she has won a national championship, had multiple All-Americans and Big Ten event champions, and been honored as the Region 3 co-head coach of the year in 2022. Nadalie is now the owner...
143 | Morgan Detrixhe's Journey: From Struggle to Sobriety and Redemption
About the Guest
Morgan Detrixhe is an accomplished athletic trainer with a journey marked by resilience and personal growth. Originating from Lubbock, Texas, Morgan was heavily involved in competitive soccer, which influenced her career path into sports medicine. She has worked as an athletic trainer at FC Dallas and currently holds a position at Children's Health Andrews Institute for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in the Dallas area. Morgan is celebrated for reaching three years of sobriety and actively shares her recovery journey to inspire and offer support to others.
Episode Summary
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142 | Josh Beaumont Talks Navigating Career Transitions From Pro Sports to Sports Science
About the Guest
Dr. Josh Beaumont is a seasoned athletic trainer and sports scientist with a vast experience in professional sports, particularly in soccer. Over his career, Josh has transitioned from being a competitive soccer player and athletic trainer in Major League Soccer (MLS) to working as a sports scientist specializing in performance analytics. Dr. Beaumont holds a Ph.D. in a related field and has a strong interest in recovery science and data-driven performance enhancement, working at Proactive Sports Performance.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Becoming UnDone...
141 | Ilana Golan: Turning Setbacks into Success with Strategic Career Leaps
About the Guest
Ilana Golan is a groundbreaking entrepreneur, tech executive, and former Israeli Air Force commander. Known for being the first woman to command an F16 training squad, Ilana's career trajectory has been far from conventional. She has made her mark in Silicon Valley, succeeded in raising significant venture capital, and established herself as a respected voice on resilience and adaptive change. Currently, she is the CEO of Leap Academy, which offers strategic guidance to individuals seeking transformative career and life transitions. Ilana's journey is a testament to grit, resilience, and the power of...
140 | From Refugee to CEO: Quang X. Pham's Journey of Grit, Toughness, and Effort
About the Guest
Quang X. Pham is a Vietnamese-American entrepreneur and former United States Marine Corps aviator. Initially arriving in the United States as a 10-year-old refugee fleeing a collapsing Saigon, Pham eventually became a decorated Marine Corps aviator. He is now the CEO of Cadrenal Therapeutics, a leading biotech company focused on innovative therapies. In addition to his professional endeavors, Quang Pham is a published author, capturing his incredible journey and insights in various books. His latest work, "Underdog Nation," conveys the themes of resilience and the power of seizing opportunities in America.
<...139 | Finding Purpose and Truthfulness Amid Life's Unexpected Turns
Episode Summary
In this episode of the Professor's Playbook/Becoming UnDone, Toby Brooks shares his transformative journey from discontentment and frustration to fulfillment and gratitude. Relaying his personal experiences of being passed over for a desired job in Lubbock, Toby opens up about the emotional turmoil and ultimately finding peace in unexpected changes. As time progressed, an opportunity at Baylor University emerged, aligning perfectly with his professional aspirations and family needs. This narrative artfully illustrates the podcast's theme: waiting for "something more" to come, as Toby strategically aligned his career goals with his core values.
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138 | From Athlete to Redemption: Jonathan Shorten's Journey of Resilience
About the Guest
Jonathan Shorten is a highly successful car salesman recognized as one of the top auto salesmen in the country. Emerging from a challenging past, Jonathan navigated through various adversities to carve out a prosperous career in the auto industry. At 28, he now leverages his life experiences, including a background in athletics and his innate resilience, to connect with a diverse clientele, including high-profile college athletes benefitting from NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities. His journey reflects a compelling story of redemption, faith, and the pursuit of excellence.
Episode Summary
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137 | Transforming Adversity into Purpose: Shaun Murphy's Journey to Empowerment
About the Guest
Shaun Murphy, known as Mister Motivation, is a dynamic speaker, veteran, educator, and transformational leader. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Shaun overcame significant adversity, including the loss of his father at age six and growing up in poverty. As a former military service member, Shaun honed his leadership skills and values, which he later translated into his roles as a father and educator. Committed to empowering others, he has blended his passion for spoken word and music with motivational speaking, creating a unique and engaging approach to personal development.
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136 | VISION: Kijuan Amey's Journey From Tragic Accident to Resilient Recovery
About the Guest(s):
Kijuan Amey is the Chief Motivational Officer at Amey Motivation, a company focused on inspiring individuals to overcome life's challenges. A former Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force and an in-flight refueling specialist, Kijuan's life took a transformational turn following a devastating motorcycle accident that left him blind and with numerous physical injuries. Despite these challenges, Kijuan has become a motivational speaker and author, sharing his journey of resilience and purpose.
Episode Summary:
In this gripping episode of Becoming Undone, hosted by Toby Brooks, we...
135 | From The Professor's Playbook: All-Nighters, Strategic Planning, & Aristotelian Generosity
About the Host
Toby Brooks is an academic professional specializing in athletic training and sports medicine. Currently serving as the Director of the Academy for Teaching & Learning and a Clinical Professor at Baylor University, Toby has a rich background in athletic training, having previously worked as the head football athletic trainer at Liberty University. With a proven track record in educational settings and significant experience in content creation as a former director for RPM Magazine, Toby brings a wealth of knowledge in sports medicine and strategic planning.
Episode Summary
Join Dr...
134 | Legendary: John Lopez's Hall of Fame Journey in Athletic Training
About the Guest
John Lopez is a renowned figure in athletic training with a storied career that spanned over five decades. Starting as an electrical engineer major, John pivoted to the athletic training profession, emerging as a pivotal contributor and mentor to countless individuals in the field. He served in various capacities, including being the head athletic trainer for the Baltimore Colts and an assistant with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his resilience and mentorship skills, John Lopez was inducted into the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) Hall of Fame in 2012. Now retired, he...
133 | Derrick Rose's Journey: A Lesson in Temperance and Resilience
About the Host
Dr. Toby Brooks is a seasoned expert in athletic training, sports medicine, and movement science. He is well-respected in his field for his deep understanding of sports injuries, rehabilitation, and the virtues necessary for effective clinical practice. He is the host of "The Professor's Playbook" and the podcast "Becoming Undone," where he synthesizes complex sports and medical topics into actionable advice. His expertise is rooted in a thorough knowledge of biomechanics and a commitment to fostering long-term health in athletes.
Episode Summary
In this episode of Becoming UnDone: from the...
132 | MAX OUT: Lubbock Christian Head Football Coach Chris Softley's Playbook for Life and Leadership
About the Guest
Chris Softley is the head football coach and athletic director at Lubbock Christian High School in Texas. With a strong background in athletics, he played collegiate football until injuries led him to pivot towards coaching. Known for his leadership, grit, and deep faith, Coach Softley has made a significant impact in the realm of high school sports, molding young athletes into not only talented players but also well-rounded individuals. His approach focuses on leveraging sports as a platform to instill life lessons, emphasizing the importance of identity, resilience, and holistic development both...
131 | Nick Peck: Finding Purpose and Healing Through Storytelling and Faith
About the Guest
Nick Peck is an accomplished author and former collegiate athlete, known for his compelling storytelling, particularly in his latest work, Only Way Out. Growing up in an abusive, alcoholic household in California, Nick faced significant trauma and adversity. He eventually found refuge in sports, earning a scholarship in football. Transitioning into journalism and authorship after retiring from athletics, Nick has made it his mission to inspire and help others through his genuine and heartfelt narratives. His works are informed by his personal experiences, motivating readers by illustrating resilience and the transformative power...
130 | Jacyln Emery: Navigating Identity and Resilience Beyond College Basketball's End
About the Guest
Jaclyn Emery is a high school athletic trainer working at McKinney Boyd High School, just outside of Dallas, Texas. She has an extensive background as a multi-sport athlete, having excelled in basketball and track during high school and continued to play basketball at the collegiate level at Hardin-Simmons University. Jaclyn is passionate about advocating for student-athletes and helping them transition through the challenges of their sports careers. Alongside her professional responsibilities, Jaclyn is also building a significant presence on social media, sharing insights on athletic training and her experiences as an athletic...
129 | Part 15: Celebrating Coach Dick Tomey’s Legacy of Leadership and Love
About the Host
Toby Brooks is a dedicated podcaster and storyteller, passionate about exploring the human story behind success and adversity. Known for his insightful and compelling docuseries, Toby seeks to uncover life lessons from influential figures across various domains, including sports, leadership, and personal growth. His podcast, "Becoming Undone," delves deep into transformative journeys and provides listeners with valuable insights into overcoming challenges.
Episode Summary
In this heartfelt finale of the docuseries on Coach Dick Tomey, Toby Brooks ties together the narratives of leadership, resilience, and the indelible impact of...
128 | Surviving a Nightmare: John Ulsh's Journey from Tragedy to Purpose
About the Guest
John Ulsh is an inspiring public speaker, author, and survivor who has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful mission of resilience and motivation. At 37, John's life dramatically changed following a nearly fatal car accident involving his entire family. Despite undergoing over 45 surgeries and extensive rehabilitation, John emerged with a renewed sense of purpose. Now, he dedicates his life to inspiring others as a motivational speaker and author of his book, The Upside of Down, while balancing his career in real estate and his family life in Pennsylvania.
Episode Summary
127 | The Life, Lessons, and Legacy of Dick Tomey Part 14: The Untold Love Story of Coach Tomey & Nanci Kincaid
About the Guest
Nanci Kincaid is a celebrated novelist known for her emotionally resonant storytelling and authentic voice. She gained notable acclaim for her book Balls, published in 1998, which offers insights into the life of coaches' wives. Nanci was married to the late legendary coach Dick Tomey, whose coaching career spanned several successful programs, including Hawaii, Arizona, and San Jose State. Nanci has been an influential voice among spouses of sports professionals, providing a unique perspective from the sidelines of major college football. Her insights into life with a prominent coach and her own career...
126 | The Impact of a Purpose Storm: Transforming Loss into New Beginnings
About the Host
Toby Brooks is an introspective speaker, coach, and author with experience in helping high-performance athletes and high achievers from diverse industries such as the arts, military, and entrepreneurship to navigate significant transitions in their lives. Through his personal journey from being an athlete to becoming a mentor and coach, Toby developed a keen insight into the identity shifts that accompany career and life changes. He has developed the UN.D.O.N.E. (tm) coaching model, aimed at helping individuals rebuild their lives and careers from the inside out.
Episode...
125 | San Jose State Football Head Coach Ken Niumatalolo Reflects on Leadership Lessons from Coach Tomey (Part 13)
About the Guest
Ken Niumatalolo is a renowned American football coach recognized for his tenure as head coach at the Naval Academy, where he became the winningest coach in program history. With a career emphasizing leadership, discipline, and teamwork, Niumatalolo has cultivated a legacy of developing successful athletes and resilient teams. Currently serving as the head coach for San Jose State Spartans, Niumatalolo embodies the principles of humility, service, and culture that he learned from influential mentors, including the legendary Coach Dick Tomey.
Episode Summary
In this enlightening episode of Becoming UnDone<...
124 | Dick Tomey Part 12: Heart and Hustle with Arizona Wildcat Legend Kelvin Eafon
About the Guest
Kelvin Eafon is a former athlete known for his remarkable leadership and resilience on and off the field. Initially recruited as a basketball player to the University of Arizona under legendary coach Lute Olson, Kelvin switched to football under Coach Dick Tomey, where he became a standout leader and co-captain of the 1998 Arizona Wildcats football team. Kelvin is known for his heart and ethos, contributing to one of the most memorable football seasons in Arizona's history. Presently, he is deeply involved in coaching and mentoring young athletes, fostering a culture...
123 | Part 11: Discovering Leadership Lessons from Coach Dick Tomey's Legacy with 1998 Arizona Football Co-Captain Barrett Baker
About the Guest
Barrett Baker is a former walk-on turned team captain of the 1998 University of Arizona Wildcats football team, which is known as the most successful team in the school's history. After his collegiate football career, Baker went on to serve with the Tucson Fire Department, where he has been a firefighter for 25 years, working in various capacities and achieving the rank of Assistant Chief. Married to his college sweetheart and a father of three, Baker continues to carry the lessons he learned under Coach Dick Tomey into his personal and professional life.
<...122 | The Science of the Comeback: Rebuild with Purpose and Clarity
Episode Summary
In this episode, Toby Brooks delves into the profound impact of reaching career milestones and the subsequent existential challenges that can follow. Reflecting on his personal journey, Toby describes the moment when achieving tenure, a lifelong academic goal, ironically ushered in a period of stagnation and introspection, leading to a deep existential crisis. This realization of "now what?" profoundly shaped his understanding of professional achievements and personal identity.
Throughout the episode, Toby Brooks shares insights on "The Science of the Comeback," a methodology he developed through personal experience and rigorous study...
121 | Part 10: Celebrating Coach Dick Tomey’s Legacy of Pioneering Athletic Trainers with Magie Lacambra
About the Guest
Magie Lacambra is a trailblazing figure in athletic training, currently serving as the Team Sport Manager for Gatorade and Gatorade Sports Marketing. An accomplished professional, Lacambra began her career in Tucson, Arizona, where she followed in her mentor Sue Hillman's steps, breaking barriers as two of the first female athletic trainers in NCAA Division I football, creating a path for future generations in a field traditionally dominated by men. Her tenure included working closely with legendary coach Dick Tomey at the University of Arizona, where she spearheaded medical care and team support...
