Episode 148: Reborn in the Ring: Gabi Jacobs on Walking Away, Coming Back, and Trusting the Process

March 30, 2026

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Gabi Jacobs joined track in 7th grade just to hang out with friends, but she became a three-time All-American and SEC champion discus thrower at Mizzou. After fouling out at the 2021 Olympic Trials and juggling elite training with demanding jobs, she walked away from the sport entirely—thinking she was done for good.

From Burnout to Comeback

Two years off changed everything. Watching SECs, USAs, and Worlds in Budapest reignited her fire, especially seeing former competitors shine on the global stage. A chat with her dad, a longtime high school track coach, gave her simple advice: Start throwing again, keep going if it brings joy, stop if it doesn't. Now back in Columbia, Missouri, training with Coach Dane Miller at Garage Strength, Gabi structures her life around part-time work, recovery from a knee injury, and daily process goals.

Trusting the Process

Gabi holds a master's in positive coaching, so her insights blend lived experience with psychology. She credits SMART goals, training journals, and celebrating small wins—like better lifts or consistent effort—for building high-performance mindsets that survive burnout. Her why shifted too: No longer chasing sponsorships or status, she focuses on personal growth and enjoying the grind toward the 2028 LA Olympics.

In Episode 148 of The Mental Mettle Podcast, Gabi shares raw details on quitting without regret, rebuilding joy, and why stepping away can clarify your path. Perfect for athletes, parents, or coaches facing pressure.

Listen now and grab the free Resilient Parents Playbook at www.resilientparentsplaybook.com. Learn more about our partners at americanparagons.org.

Are you ready to forge your mettle?

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