148: Beyond the Finish Line: Allyson Felix's Journey Through Motherhood and Success

As I'm currently watching the Olympics as I write this, I am in awe of all of these incredible athletes. Seeing the greatest in the world compete against one another in their sports is truly amazing. You know what's also amazing? Knowing that some of these competitors are mothers. These women have grown, birthed, and continue to sustain life. And they are Olympians. I have wonderful memories watching the Olympics growing up and one athlete that I have admired over the years is Allyson Felix. She has done some amazing things as a track and field star, but her work off the track is just as inspiring. Who is Allyson Felix? Allyson Felix is the most decorated track and field athlete in history. That’s right! With a record 20 World Championship medals and 11 medals at the Olympic Games — seven gold, three silver, and one bronze — she ranks among the sport's greats. Throughout her career, Allyson has demonstrated resilience and determination, overcoming setbacks and injuries to achieve greatness on the track. Her dedication to her sport and commitment to excellence have made her a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide. In 2022, Allyson retired from her athletic career after winning her last world championship gold in Eugene, Oregon, ending her career as the most decorated athlete in track and field history. Beyond her athletic achievements, Felix is also recognized for her advocacy work and leadership in promoting gender equality and diversity in sports. She has been a vocal advocate for maternity rights for athletes, sparking important conversations about supporting women athletes during pregnancy and postpartum. She has also been an advocate for Black maternal health for racial disparities in maternal mortality rates in the U.S. For all of her efforts, Allyson was named one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People twice, in 2020 and 2021. Allyson is also a wife and mother to her two children. In November 2018, Allyson gave birth to her daughter, Camryn, early at 32 weeks via emergency C-section due to severe preeclampsia. In April 2024, she welcomed her son, Kenneth (Trey), via an unmedicated VBAC. Her journey as a mother has added a new dimension to her career, inspiring others with her ability to excel both on and off the track. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Allyson Felix about her journey through motherhood — from her career as a professional athlete and Olympic champion to embracing life as a mother of two as well as her latest partnership with Pampers. Check out our SHOW NOTES for more details. Chatting with Allyson was such a pleasure. Her humbleness and genuine care for supporting women and mothers is evident and we are so grateful for all that she is doing to make a difference. Listen to the episode to hear her thoughts and story! Allyson Mentioned Allyson mentioned that she used a doula during her last birth. What is a Doula? – Podcast Episode #2 She also said that she used Hypnobabies for her VBAC. An episode with Kerry Tuschhoff, the Founder, Director, & Owner of Hypnobabies: How to Prepare Your Mind and Body for Childbirth – Podcast Episode 9 Allyson Felix's Resources Website: allysonfelix.com Instagram: @allysonfelix X: @allysonfelix Company: Saysh Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices