US Gymnast Nina Sossamon-Pogue: Rising Above an Identity Crisis – Part One

Part One.

I sit down with Nina Sossamon-Pogue, a former professional gymnast who started her journey at just four years old and went on to join the U.S. Gymnastics Team.

In her own words, gymnastics is a perfect example of resilience—you literally fall down and get back up, all day, every day, as you learn new skills. That mindset became part of Nina’s DNA, and it carried her through some incredible twists and turns.

From the heartbreak of not making the Olympic team to leaving the sport for good after an injury, she faced one identity crisis after another. But she didn’t stop there. Nina built a successful journalism career that spanned 17 years, only to be let go, despite being a beloved news anchor. And instead of staying down, she jumped into tech—starting from scratch—and reinvented herself yet again.

Today, in part one of our conversation, we’re diving into Nina’s journey. Her training, her triumphs, and her setbacks. Then, tomorrow, in part two, we’ll explore the tools Nina has developed over the years to help others rise above their challenges. Tools like the Reverse Resume and Successful Timeline. We’re not talking about your typical resume or conventional ideas of success—we’re going beyond that.

Key Highlights of Our Interview:

The Personal Toll of Public Life

“While doing three live shows a day, I went through a divorce, an accident, and some of the darkest moments of my life. I wondered if I’d ever feel happy again.”

Finding Your Sweet Spot: Skills, Opportunities, and Trends

“When making a career pivot, ask yourself three key questions: What am I good at? Where’s the money? And what’s the trajectory of the industry I’m entering? Aligning these answers sets the foundation for a successful transition.”

Coffee, Conversations, and Clarity: Gaining Insight From Your Network

“To discover where I could make an impact, I turned to trusted colleagues and asked: If you had to hire me, what would you hire me for? Their answers revealed skills I hadn’t fully recognized and pointed me toward opportunities I hadn’t considered.”

Your Skills, Seen Through Fresh Eyes

“What others find valuable in you might surprise you. It’s a reminder to seek outside perspectives—they could reveal your next big opportunity.”

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Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Nina Sossamon-Pogue

Chief Change Officer: Make Change Ambitiously.

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