Ep 34: Showing Up Anyway: A Conversation with Jack Young

Jack Young’s path to the top of U.S. cross-country skiing hasn’t been linear — and that’s exactly what makes this conversation so powerful.

From growing up as a multi-sport athlete to fully committing to skiing, Jack reflects on the decisions, sacrifices, and mindset shifts that shaped his rise from college racing at Colby to the World Cup circuit. 

This episode was actually recorded over a year ago but there are some great takeaways from Jack that are relevant today. We talk about breakthrough moments, including a career-defining sprint result in Davos last year, and the quieter, harder moments that don’t always make headlines — navigating disappointment, managing expectations, and learning how to stay grounded when the goals are big and the outcomes aren’t guaranteed.

This episode is about progress over perfection, trusting the process, and redefining success when the finish line keeps moving. Jack was recently selected for Team USA for the Winter Olympic Games. Congratulations, Jack! However, he also found out he might not have a start in any of the races. In this episode, Jack shares what he's been going through recently and how he's been dealing with these polarizing emotions. 

Whether you’re an athlete chasing a dream or someone learning how to stay patient through uncertainty, Jack’s perspective is honest, thoughtful, and deeply relatable.