
Becoming Heart Strong isn’t about what you’ve built or what broke you—it’s about who you’ve become. Hosted by Jess Lindberg, this podcast invites leaders, founders, and everyday changemakers into honest conversations about the challenges that shape us—and the strength we forge through them. These aren’t surface-level interviews. They’re vulnerable, grounded, and real. We talk about the losses, pivots, breakthroughs, and decisions that transformed not just someone’s path, but their character and lives. Because it’s not what happened to you or what you’ve accomplished that defines you—it’s who you choose to become, and what you create from the hard things. Every episode goes beyond the story to offer tools, strategies, and insights—especially from experts—to help you grow stronger in your own life. You’ll leave with not just inspiration, but practical ways to take your next step. If you’re ready to grow through what you go through, lead with heart, and live with deeper courage, this show is for you.
Episodes

Wednesday Oct 16, 2024
76. Gold Medalist Jessica Long on Overcoming Adversity and Loving Yourself
Wednesday Oct 16, 2024
Wednesday Oct 16, 2024
In this inspiring conversation, Jessica Long, the most decorated active Paralympian in the United States, shares her journey from adoption in Russia to becoming a champion swimmer. She discusses the challenges she faced, including numerous surgeries and the struggle for self-acceptance, while emphasizing the importance of resilience, mindset, and the power of vulnerability. Jessica also highlights her advocacy work for the Paralympic movement and the need for greater awareness and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Her story encourages others to embrace challenges and pursue their dreams with determination and grace.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jessica Long and Her Journey
02:57 Overcoming Adversity: Adoption and Early Life
05:59 The Power of Sports: Finding Freedom in Swimming
09:00 Resilience Through Surgeries and Challenges
12:02 The Impact of Mindset and Determination
15:00 Navigating Identity: Adoption and Self-Perception
17:52 Faith and Healing: A Personal Journey
21:02 Motivation and the Pursuit of Excellence
24:10 The Role of Advocacy in the Paralympic Movement
27:02 Self-Acceptance and Personal Growth
29:54 Visualizing Success: The Mental Game
33:06 Future Aspirations and Legacy in Swimming
36:02 Vulnerability as Strength: Encouragement for Others
38:49 Advice for Young Athletes: Commitment and Goals
41:58 Reflections on Hardships and Personal Growth
Follow Jessica Long on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicatatianalong/
Follow Jessica on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessicatatianalong
Order her new book, Beyond The Surface: A Gold Medalists Guide to Finding and Loving Yourself
Learn more about Jessica: https://www.jessicalong.com/
You can follow Jess on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook
Access Jess’ FREE Future Self Mini Course
Learn more about The Heart Strong Collective
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