In the 1984 Summer Olympics, Rowdy Gaines captured hearts around the world—and three gold medals in the pool. But for Rowdy, his Olympic triumphs are just one chapter in a much bigger story. In this week’s episode, the legendary swimmer opens up about the moments that shaped him: the discipline of elite competition, the unexpected turns of life before and after gold, and the personal journey that led him to faith and family.
I never said I was perfect in swimming but one thing I was, I was consistent. …Don’t worry about being perfect, just worry about being consistent. And that’s what I try to work on with the gospel is just trying to work on the consistency…
Show Notes
3:55- Discovering an Incredible Talent
7:05- An Olympic Boycott and Four More Years
11:14- Being an Olympian
15:00- Mental Vs. Medal
16:31- Finding True Love at a Gas Station in Vegas
20:50- Judy’s Conversion
23:17- Rowdy’s Conversion
29:32- Guillain-Barré Syndrome
31:23- USA Swimming Community
33:10- Feeling the Lord’s Love
36:46- The Olympic Spirit
39:39- What Does It Mean To Be All In the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
Links:
Video of Rowdy’s Olympic Individual Medal: 1984 Olympic Games - Men's 100 Meter Freestylewestnyacktwins•152K views•11 years ago
Arthur Brooks article (behind paywall): The New York Timeshttps://www.nytimes.comScottie Scheffler raised questions about happiness and fulfillment. This ...
McKay Coppins piece following President Nelson’s passing: The Atlantichttps://www.theatlantic.comA Prophet's Diagnosis
Recent Editorial by Rowdy Gaines: https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/rowdy-gaines-i-stand-with-michael-phelps-im-fighting-too/
Grand Blanc Bishop following Michigan tragedy: Bishop of Michigan Congregation Speaks About Tragic ShootingChurch Newsroom•84K views•3 weeks ago
View transcript here.