What is the true measure of success in sport? Is it the medals, the records, or something deeper? In a profoundly moving and insightful conversation on Episode 7 of Sports Clamor, host PJ Kwong welcomes two-time Olympic Speed Skater and broadcaster Anastasia Bucsis.

This episode ventures into the heart of an athlete's journey, exploring the immense power of authenticity, the distinction between being beaten and losing, and why sport is perhaps the greatest apprenticeship for life itself.

A Lesson for Every Athlete: The Difference Between Being Beaten and Losing

Anastasia shares a mental framework that is crucial for any competitor, parent, or coach. "There's a fundamental difference between being beat and losing," she explains.

If you execute your game plan, focus on what's in your control, and give your best effort, but someone else is simply faster or better on the day, you were beaten. You can hold your head high. But losing, she argues, is when you get in your own way. "You allow... those thoughts to take you from what your game plan is," Anastasia says. "Don't get in your own way. That's when you'll lose." This lesson in focusing on personal effort over external outcomes is one of sport's most valuable teachings.

The Power of Authenticity: How Being Yourself Unlocks Potential

The most powerful part of the conversation centers on Anastasia's journey to living as her authentic self. She shares the story of coming out to her mother just before a major championship, terrified of how it would be received. Her mother’s simple, profound response changed everything: "We're here to love, not judge."

"The weight of the world had been lifted off of me," Anastasia recalls. The emotional freedom had a direct, measurable impact on her performance. At the competition that week, she achieved a massive personal best. "It was just such a reminder that I love my sport. I am only competing with myself... To really, really reach to the top, you got to find who you are authentically... and do it for you."

A Message to Parents: "Listen to Your Kids"

When asked for her best advice for parents, Anastasia's answer is direct: "Listen to your kids." She cautions against the trap of parents pinning their own hopes on their children or asking, "How can I make my kid an Olympian?"

"You can't," she states plainly. The real goal should be supporting your child's effort and enjoyment. "The greatest lessons are learned in the pursuit, not with where you... you know, the podium," she explains. Sport should be a space to learn, grow, and have fun – not just a means to an end.

The Greatest Apprenticeship for Life

Ultimately, Anastasia sees sport as a powerful training ground for life. It teaches resilience, complex social interaction, emotional regulation, and self-worth in a way that textbooks cannot. These lessons, learned while navigating the highs and lows of competition, build stronger, healthier, and more empathetic human beings. And her three words to describe her sport to a child? "Fun, Fast, Fierce!"

Our Take: Creating Environments Where Authenticity Thrives

Anastasia Bucsis's story is a powerful reminder of the "why" behind sport. It's about more than just physical activity; it's about providing a space where young people can learn about themselves, face challenges, and discover the strength that comes from being authentic.

At Communiti, we believe our role is to support the organizations that create these vital environments. By simplifying the administrative and logistical burdens of running a sports organization – making it easier to find, book, and communicate – we hope to free up more time and resources for coaches, volunteers, and parents to focus on what truly matters: the athletes. Fostering safe, accessible, and positive communities where kids feel empowered to show up as themselves is the ultimate victory.

Dive deeper into Anastasia Bucsis's incredible story and insights:

• Hear how figure skater Oksana Baiul first inspired her Olympic dream.

• Learn more about her framework of "being beaten vs. losing."

• Get her full perspective on the role of parents in youth sports.

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