Paul Rabil is The world's most recognized lacrosse player, Paul plays for the New York Lizards and Team USA. He's won championships at all levels of competition, including League MVPs, a World MVP, and MLL Championship MVP. That's what it says on his website.
I first heard of Paul when an episode of his Podcast, Suiting Up, popped up in my feed. His guest? Venus Williams. I was intrigued considering that neither Venus nor Serena do long-form interviews, especially none which asked either sister to speak about their life and interests outside of tennis. I then listened to his podcast with Jeremy Lin. Then, Drew Brees. I - contrary to popular belief - am not a sports fan. But this, this was different.
I've long been a proponent of athletes telling their stories. The Players' Trib was one of the first formats which provided them a space to do so. However, I hadn't heard of anyone doing long form interviews which were in-depth, at times intimate and sans a franchise's control. This is how I felt about Suiting Up.
I went on instagram to see what he was all about. Lacrosse player. Hmm. Most definitely a sport not in my periphery. Most recognized? Even more peculiar. I wanted to know more. I reached out via a mutual friend to see if Paul would be interested in having a conversation about the many topics he discusses on his podcast. Like personal realization and growth. Like empathy. Like vulnerability. Like questioning the definition of masculinity. Like the human condition. All things which are part of my vernacular. He agreed.
This conversation was recorded in July 2017. It's since been 5 months and much has changed. As it pertains to my story, at the time of our recording, I was fresh into my Recovery from an Eating Disorder and was not at the level of confidence in my Being as I find myself currently. However, since I am not in the space to judge and am practicing kindness towards myself, it was the best that I could do at the time. Yes, this is my inner-critic coming forward ie; I am judging myself. But this is not about me. It's about Paul and on his behalf, this conversation is an interesting glimpse inside the mind of a person who would typically fall into the category of "manly" man.
For Paul fans, it's a different side to the animated and exuberant personality you've all come to know. For those of you who do not know Paul, this conversation is filled with insights on masculinity and it's overstimulation in sports, film and music, the importance of therapy, self-realization and intellectual curiosity, giving back, as well as Paul's insecurities and much more. It's a good one.
Thank you Paul for sharing your Story, Truth + Flaws.
