Welcome to Athletes IN Sports—the podcast that goes beyond the game to uncover the stories that shape elite athletes.
In this episode, we sit down with Izzy Ashburn, former University of Wisconsin volleyball standout and national champion. Izzy shares how her parents’ steady support shaped her work ethic, resilience, and ability to thrive through the highs and lows of college athletics.
She opens up about:
Why playing multiple sports as a kid gave her an edge in volleyball
How intentional habits helped her balance academics, travel, and D1 competition
The role of culture and team standards in building a championship program
Why identity beyond sports is essential for long-term happiness and success
Packed with heartfelt stories and practical advice, this conversation is a must-listen for athletes, parents, and coaches who want to understand what it really takes to succeed—on and off the court.
🌟 Featured Guest: Izzy Ashburn
🤝 Sponsors: InSports Foundation x Athlusion
📍 Location: MN Select Volleyball
🎤 Hosts: Max Smith, Bridget Smith, Andrew Deters
💡 Co-Host: Chad Welk, Co-Founder/CEO Athlusion
🎧 Tune in now and discover what it means to pursue excellence with balance, intentionality, and passion.
💡 This episode is brought to you by the InSports Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to giving kids the chance to participate in sports regardless of financial barriers. Just like Izzy’s story, our mission is about helping the next generation find their passion, build confidence, and thrive both on and off the court.
