I’ve become increasingly curious about the actual “moments” when someone realizes a dream. In the case of an Olympian, from what I’ve been told, the moment you win gold is quickly followed by the realization of everything that got you there. In many cases, according to those who have been there, it’s like an actual floodgate opens… and the emotions just flow. 

In this episode, I sit down with one of those Olympians - my friend Angela Ruggiero, four-time Olympic medalist (including gold in 1998)  and Hockey Hall of Famer. We talk about what it really feels like when everything comes down to one final moment. We were together broadcasting women’s hockey during the winter Olympics, and being beside her as the United States women played Canada in the  gold medal game was unforgettable. The biggest hockey rivalry and overtime? Forget it!

We talk about nerves that never fully go away, the weight of representing your country, and what it takes to help build a league and a future for the next generation. We also discuss how women’s hockey is entering its most powerful era yet - oh, and how Angela became the prolific athlete and leader she is today. 

What You’ll Discover:

• Seeing the champions up close in Milan (03:18)
• Belief vs. self-defeat (16:29)
• Leaving home to chase a dream (24:28)
• From Olympian to entrepreneur (43:09)
• The inequities that still remain (53:23)

Angela’s story is about belief, not just in yourself, but in what’s possible when a community shows up around you. That’s what I love about these conversations. The part behind the highlight. The mindset inside the moment.

If this episode resonated with you, make sure you’re subscribed to Things No One Tells You so you don’t miss what’s next. And if you loved what you heard, share this episode with a friend. 

You can watch this interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/u19KyvZjfqY

For a full transcript and more, check out our blog post: https://www.lindsaycz.com/show-notes/angela-ruggiero-37  

Check out more from Angela Ruggiero on Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/angela.m.ruggiero/ 

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