Two-time Olympian, Olympic Silver Medalist, twelve-time National Champion, NCAA Champion, and World Championship Bronze Medalist, Jessica Parratto, is Laura’s very special guest on the podcast this week. With deep aquatic roots in her family, Jessica’s journey was almost inevitable, as her mother was her coach until age 14, and her father once coached Olympic legend Jenny Thompson. Jessica shares her remarkable story in this episode, from her daring decision to leave home at 14 to train at the National Training Center to her tumultuous Rio Olympics experience, partnership with Delaney Schnell, pursuit of Olympic medals, and specialization in synchronized diving.
Jessica’s candid conversation with Laura details her unique upbringing, the parental support in choosing her path, and her journey to becoming an elite diver. Showcasing the power of passion, determination, and strong team support, her journey epitomizes determination and resilience, from pivotal synchronized diving partnership decisions to her comeback from retirement. Her collaboration with Delaney Schnell highlights teamwork, trust, and the relentless pursuit of Olympic glory, and beyond the pool, Jessica's story illuminates her life outside diving, emphasizing her supportive family and deep friendships with fellow divers. Tune in here today to share in this truly fascinating tale of all the sacrifices and joys of chasing Olympic dreams from two superstars who have experienced them firsthand.
Episode Highlight:
- Jessica's aquatic family background
- Her bold choice to leave home at 14 for National Training
- Jessica’s Olympic journey
- Her discovery of a passion for synchronized diving
- The role of mental strength in her career
- The importance of setting boundaries for focus and success
- Navigating the challenges of Olympic trials, embracing the Olympic experience, and dealing with unexpected situations
- Insights into Jessica’s Rio Olympics experience and post-Rio career plans
- Adapting to the pandemic's impact on the Tokyo Olympics and making a comeback
- Demonstrating determination and resilience
- Synchronized diving intricacies
- The value of Olympic dreams
Quotes:
"I did a lot of sports growing up. I did swimming, I did diving, gymnastics, soccer, dance. I mean, I did it all."
"My parents made me and my sister feel so comfortable in just wanting to do whatever we wanted to do in life."
"I just remember Drew being like, 'Do you think that you can make an Olympic team right now?' And I was just like, 'No.' And he was like, 'Well, I do.'"
"I think crazy things can happen in a small amount of time, so don't ever count yourself out.”
"It literally changes everything when you think differently, right? And you're like evidence of that right here."
"It's so important. It is definitely a difference-maker. And even if you have to preface it like, 'Hey, I don't want to hurt your feelings, I love you guys, but this is just what I need right now. And I just really would love and appreciate that support.’"
"It's never just yourself, it's always this army that you have behind you. And so that's what makes it really special."
Links:
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Connect with Jessica:
