Fear, Focus, and the Foundation of a Champion

Welcome to the very first episode of In Deep with Olivia Smoliga — a new series diving beneath the surface of sport, mindset, and self-mastery. In this introduction, Olivia opens up about why she launched In Depth Swim Academy and how it inspired her to create this space for honest conversation and growth. Drawing from over 15 years of elite competition — from world championships to the Olympic stage — Olivia shares her personal reflections on fear, pressure, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, reminding listeners that true performance starts in the mind.

This episode sets the tone for what’s to come: real talk on the inner battles athletes face, tools to build emotional resilience, and an invitation to grow alongside a global community of swimmers and dreamers alike. Whether you’re chasing your first best time or your third Olympic team, In Deep will meet you exactly where you are — and guide you toward who you’re becoming.

Watch or listen below!