Finding Identity After Olympic Hopeful: Nina Sossamon-Pogue's Transition to Emmy-Winning Journalist

Nina Sossamon-Pogue is a dynamic speaker, two-time best-selling author, and podcast host whose remarkable career spans elite athletics, television journalism, and corporate leadership. At just 13, she left home to train as a gymnast, representing Team USA and appearing alongside legends like Mary Lou Retton as an Olympic hopeful. Though an injury ended her gymnastics career during her time at LSU, it became the launchpad for a 20-year Emmy-winning tenure as a journalist and news anchor.


Nina’s ability to reinvent herself led her from television to corporate America, where she excelled as an executive, playing a key role in a successful IPO. Today, she uses her vast experience in communications, leadership, and resilience research to help others navigate challenges and achieve success. Her inspiring story and expertise in overcoming obstacles empower individuals and organizations to embrace change and thrive.


Nina shares her journey from being a competitive gymnast to a successful journalist and corporate leader. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from sports to a new career, the pressures of gymnastics, and how she found her identity after an injury ended her athletic career. Nina's story is one of resilience, personal growth, and the importance of embracing new beginnings. In this engaging conversation, Nina Sossamon-Pogue shares her journey from a successful journalism career, where she won an Emmy, to a significant pivot into the tech industry.

She discusses her challenges and learning experiences in corporate America, particularly during an IPO. Nina emphasizes the importance of coachability and adaptability in achieving success, and she highlights her current work in empowering others through workshops and keynotes. The conversation also touches on her books, which focus on navigating life's challenges and finding the balance between career and family.

Connect with Nina: https://www.ninasossamonpogue.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninasossamonpogue/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NinaTheAuthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nina_sp.eaks/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ninasossp


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Takeaways

- Nina's journey reflects the importance of resilience in the face of challenges.
- The transition from gymnastics to journalism was a pivotal moment in Nina's life.
- Competitive sports can lead to high pressure and mental health challenges.
- Finding identity outside of a sport can be a difficult process.
- Support from mentors can help guide individuals through career transitions.
- Nina's experience in journalism highlights the importance of hard work and perseverance.
- Each chapter of life builds upon the previous one, leading to personal growth.
- Nina's story emphasizes the value of community and connection in sports.
- The pressures of perfection in gymnastics can have lasting effects.
- Embracing new opportunities can lead to exciting new beginnings. Winning the - - - Emmy was a significant validation for Nina.
- Nina's pivot to tech was a calculated decision after a life-changing experience.
- Corporate America offered a different perspective compared to journalism.
- Nina thrived in tech by asking questions and being curious.
- The IPO journey was both exciting and nerve-wracking for Nina.
- Coachability is a key trait Nina looks for in potential hires.
- Nina's workshops focus on helping people navigate tough life moments.
- Her first book offers strategies for overcoming life's challenges.
- Nina's second book addresses the balance between career and family.
- Success is defined by the ability to adapt positively to change.