In this episode of Unfiltered Waters, Katie Hoff is joined by special guest host Lilly King for a conversation with one of swimming's most unexpected breakout stars, Van Mathias, the American record holder in the 50-meter breaststroke and Indiana University's Director of Operations.

Van's journey is anything but conventional. After stepping away from elite competition to begin his full-time career, he found himself drawn back to the pool with a completely different perspective. Now balancing a demanding job with training, he's redefining what it looks like to chase world-class performance while living a life outside of swimming. Van shares how working a full-time job has actually made him a better athlete, why he no longer feels pressure on race day, and how having something bigger than swimming has completely changed his mindset.

The conversation also explores Van's unconventional training philosophy, the evolution from distance swimmer to sprint specialist, and how he and his coaches are challenging traditional ideas about what it takes to become one of the fastest breaststrokers in the world. He discusses returning to the sport after two years away, embracing new methods in the weight room and pool, and why sprinting is less about who swims the fastest and more about who slows down the least.

Along the way, Van opens up about his loyalty to Indiana University, the culture that shaped him, the sacrifices required to pursue two careers at once, and why he believes he's been given an extra life in the sport. From balancing spreadsheets and swim meets to chasing an Olympic dream, his story is a reminder that success doesn't always follow a straight line.

Honest, funny, and refreshingly different, this episode offers a unique look at one of swimming's most compelling stories and the mindset behind an athlete who is rewriting the rules while keeping the joy of competition at the center of it all.
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In this episode of Unfiltered Waters, Katie Hoff sits down with Devon Allen, one of the rare athletes to reach the highest level in two sports. A two-time Olympian in the 110-meter hurdles and former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver, Devon shares what it takes to pursue excellence across completely different competitive worlds.

The conversation dives into Devon's unique journey from football standout to Olympic hurdler and back again. He reflects on the injuries that altered his path, the decision to step away from football after Rio, and why focusing solely on track did not produce the breakthrough he expected. Devon opens up about rediscovering joy in competition, how returning to football changed his perspective, and why having multiple passions ultimately helped him become a better athlete.

Katie and Devon also compare the demands of track and field versus the NFL, discussing everything from training philosophies and recovery to the mental challenges of competing on the world's biggest stages. Devon shares what it felt like to finish fourth at the Olympics, the lessons he learned from narrowly missing the podium, and why his eyes remain firmly set on competing at a third Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

The conversation goes beyond sports as Devon reflects on identity, discipline, coaching, and the importance of staying grounded through success and setbacks. From navigating NFL training camp and learning a new playbook to coaching athletes at his alma mater and mentoring the next generation, Devon brings a thoughtful perspective that extends far beyond athletics.

Honest, insightful, and full of lessons on resilience and growth, this episode explores what happens when talent meets curiosity, and why the pursuit of greatness is rarely a straight line.

Whether you're an athlete, coach, or simply chasing a big goal of your own, there's something in this conversation for you.
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#UnfilteredWaters #Olympics #NFL

In this episode of Unfiltered Waters, Katie Hoff sits down with Rebecca Adlington, one of Great Britain’s most accomplished swimmers. A two-time Olympic gold medalist, former world record holder, broadcaster, entrepreneur, and mother of three, Becky reflects on the journey that took her from Olympic glory in Beijing to building a life and legacy beyond the pool.

The conversation explores Becky’s unique relationship with swimming and competition. While many athletes thrive on race day, Becky reveals that she never loved competing and instead found her joy in the daily process of training. She opens up about the anxiety she felt leading into major competitions, the disappointment she carried after London 2012 despite winning two Olympic bronze medals, and how she learned to separate her identity from results.

Katie and Becky also dive into motherhood, pregnancy loss, IVF journeys, and the realities of balancing family with a meaningful career. Becky shares her experience navigating multiple miscarriages, the anxiety that followed during pregnancy, and the lessons she has learned about resilience, trust, and giving herself grace through life’s most challenging moments.

Today, Becky’s passion is transforming swimming at the grassroots level through her growing network of swim schools across the United Kingdom. She discusses her mission to improve water safety, expand access to swimming lessons, and create opportunities for future generations to develop confidence in the water. For Becky, the impact of swimming extends far beyond medals and records. It is about changing lives.

From Olympic memories and career transitions to motherhood, purpose, and the power of trusting your path, this is an honest and inspiring conversation with one of swimming’s most beloved champions.
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#UnfilteredWaters #Swimming #RebeccaAdlington