BTU takes the interviews off the track and into the pool for a Special Edition episode. So many Olympic athletes have amazing stories to be shared, so the interviews outside of track and field will be classified as Special Edition. In this episode TJ talks with three-time Olympic gold medalist and current 100 meter backstroke World Record holder Ryan Murphy. They discuss swimming with the legend, Michael Phelps, breaking world records, winning gold medals and a lot about Ryan's life in and out of the pool.
TJ starts off the show listing off Ryan's numerous accolades (1:21) and getting his thoughts on his accomplishments thus far in his career (2:18). Ryan talks about what it was like breaking a world record (4:00), swimming with his idol, Michael Phelps (7:37), their friendship since Rio (8:47) and what his mindset was going into the relay where he broke the world record. That relay also happened to be Michael Phelps' last Olympic race ever (10:08). TJ asks what kind of leader Michael was (13:10) and how that leadership role will be filled in his absence (16:30). Ryan tells his favorite stories from the Rio Olympics (17:59) and how he learned to deal with curveballs thrown at him during the 2016 Olympic Games (22:01). He also talks about his pre-race superstitions (24:47) and what the Olympics are like for athletes after they are done competing (26:04). TJ asks why Ryan decided to go back to Cal for his senior year after the 2016 Olympics (27:40) and what he learned entering 2016 from his Cal teammates who had previously been to an Olympics (29:30). Ryan discusses the difficulties he has had replicating similar success post Rio Olympics (31:57) and the changes he needs to make entering the Tokyo Olympics (33:29). TJ asks Ryan what motivates him, and Ryan shares some interesting stories about his motivations (34:48). They also discuss the COVID-19 pandemic including: how COVID has effected his training and mentality (39:12), what kinds of changes he has made in his training (40:40) and the mental health of other Olympians during quarantine (45:29). TJ asks Ryan about what kind of pressure he feels going into the next Olympic Games (47:13) and the meaning behind a quote from Ryan on inspiring others (51:19). Ryan talks about being a Goldfish Swim School Ambassador (52:50) and being a part of the International Swim League (54:13). TJ and Ryan revisit a question he was asked years ago about describing himself in 3 words (56:00) and discuss his interest in the financial world (56:56). TJ asks about the role faith has played in Ryan's career (59:15). Lastly, Ryan talks about what he hopes his impact has been on the world (1:00:46).