Olympic Skier Alice Merryweather on Training, Mental Resilience, & Eating Disorders | Ep 42

The Driven Athlete

What does it take to transform from a young recreational skier to an elite Olympic athlete? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Alice Merryweather, who takes us through her remarkable journey from the slopes of New Hampshire to competing on the world's biggest stage. Alice shares how her passion for skiing was ignited by her parents and fueled by her enrollment at the Stratton Mountain School, a specialized ski academy. Her story is a testament to the power of full commitment and unwavering focus, as she recounts the key moments and decisions that paved the way for her success.
Sibling rivalry, cross-training, and the influence of mentors are crucial elements in Alice's development. Listen as she discusses the healthy competition with her older brother, the benefits of participating in multiple sports like soccer and lacrosse, and the invaluable lessons learned from training alongside legends such as Lindsey Vonn. Alice also opens up about her journey through the various skiing disciplines before ultimately finding her niche in downhill skiing, culminating in her victory at the 2017 World Junior Championships and her ascent to the World Cup team.
Mental fortitude and recovery play significant roles in an athlete's life, and Alice's experiences offer profound insights. From working with sports psychologists to overcoming an eating disorder after the 2018 Winter Olympics, Alice's story emphasizes the importance of mental health and self-awareness. She shares candidly about narrowly missing the Olympic team, only to compete when a teammate was injured, and the emotional highs and lows that followed. This episode is a treasure trove of personal anecdotes and practical advice, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about sports and mental well-being.

Chapters

1. Athlete's Podcast Interview With Olympic Skier (00:00:00)

2. Sibling Competitiveness and Cross Training (00:08:25)

3. Professional Ski Racing Training and Mentors (00:12:37)

4. Athlete Personal Identity and Training Vibe (00:18:49)

5. Athlete's Mental Game and Recovery (00:23:34)

6. Olympian's Unexpected Journey and Overcoming (00:29:34)

7. Identity Crisis and Academic Challenges (00:34:53)

8. Balancing Priorities and Imposter Syndrome (00:40:25)

9. Eating Disorder Recovery and Athlete Support (00:47:57)