In this episode of "Just Being Intentional," host Thomas Harris speaks with Jennifer Sey, a former elite gymnast, author, advocate, and CEO of XY Athletics. Jennifer shares her experiences in gymnastics, detailing the emotional and physical abuse she faced, and her struggles with mental health. She discusses her transition from gymnastics to a career in the fashion industry, her advocacy work, and the challenges of speaking out against systemic abuse. The conversation highlights themes of resilience, identity, and the importance of intentionality in personal and professional life. Jennifer also talks about her new venture, XY Athletics, and her commitment to supporting women's sports.

Referenced Links and Resources:

- Books by Jennifer Sey:
  - Chalked Up: Exposing the Abusive Coaching Practices in Gymnastics: https://a.co/d/i2OPrUq
  - Levi's Unbuttoned: https://a.co/d/3hmZXYf

- XY Athletics:
  - XY Athletics Website: https://www.xx-xyathletics.com/

- Documentary:
  - Athlete A on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81034185

- Social Media:
  - Just Being Intentional on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561440964821
  - Just Being Intentional on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justbeingintentionalth/
  - Just Being Intentional on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justbeingintentionalth

Production:
Sophos Media Productions: https://www.sophosmediaproductions.com

Contact:
For inquiries and more information, please visit our website: https://justbeingintentional.com or email us at podcast@justbeingintentional.com.




TIMESTAMPS:
Introduction to Jennifer Say (0:00)
Jennifer shares her feelings of anxiety and low self-esteem after leaving gymnastics at 18.
Jennifer Say Joins the Podcast (1:11)
Jennifer expresses her happiness to be on the podcast and thanks Thomas for featuring her.
Jennifer Say's Gymnastics Journey (2:53)
Jennifer shares her background as an elite gymnast and her early dedication to the sport.
Starting Elite Gymnastics at Age 10 (3:04)
She describes qualifying for the elite level at age ten and the intense training involved.
Moving for Gymnastics Training (3:39)
Jennifer recounts moving away from home at 14 to pursue gymnastics at a better gym.
Transitioning to College Life (4:54)
Jennifer discusses her transition to college life after gymnastics and the personal growth that followed.
Jennifer's Fashion Career at Levi's (5:54)
She reflects on her journey in the fashion industry, including her rise at Levi's.
Why Jennifer Left Levi's (7:32)
Jennifer shares her decision to resign from Levi's to focus on her advocacy and new brand.
Elite Gymnastics Experience (7:59)
Thomas asks Jennifer about her experiences as a seven-time national team member and champion.
Physical Toll of Gymnastics (10:42)
Jennifer explains the physical toll of gymnastics, including multiple injuries and mental strain.
Leaving Gymnastics and Finding Autonomy (11:17)
She reflects on her decision to leave gymnastics and reclaim her autonomy.
Challenges After Gymnastics (14:52)
Jennifer shares the difficulties of transitioning from elite athlete to finding her identity post-sport.
Exploring Identity Post-Gymnastics (17:06)
Jennifer discusses the challenge of exploring her identity after leaving gymnastics and the pressure of choices.
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (18:19)
Jennifer discusses her feelings of inadequacy and how she learned to embrace her identity after college.
Writing "Chalked Up" (19:50)
She reflects on how writing her book helped her confront past traumas from gymnastics.
"Athlete A" Documentary Insights (21:02)
Jennifer talks about the documentary detailing the abuse in gymnastics, connecting it to broader cultural issues.
Speaking Out Against Abuse (22:01)
The importance of speaking out against abuse and the courage it takes to challenge the status quo.
Jennifer's Advocacy Journey (22:25)
Jennifer shares her long tenure at Levi's and her commitment to advocating for children during the pandemic.
Facing Community Backlash (23:57)
She discusses the backlash she faced from the community for her views on school closures during COVID.
The Dangers of Censorship (24:58)
Jennifer highlights the dangers of censorship and the importance of standing firm in one's beliefs.
Introducing XY Athletics (27:06)
She introduces her clothing line aimed at protecting women's sports and opposing excessive wokeness in apparel.
Building Resilience Against Criticism (30:43)
Jennifer shares her experience dealing with criticism and how she has grown tougher over the years.
Friendship and Divergent Views (33:24)
She reflects on losing friends during the pandemic and the importance of maintaining respectful relationships.
Quality Family Time (35:08)
Jennifer acknowledges the need to be more intentional about spending quality time with her children.
Gratitude for Supportive Family and Friends (37:05)
Jennifer expresses gratitude for her supportive family and friends during challenging times.