Balancing Books & Blocks – A Conversation with Del Johnson Jr.

In this episode, we sit down with Del Johnson Jr., a driven freshman at Concordia College in Minnesota and a dedicated student-athlete on the track team. Del opens up about the challenges of balancing his academic workload with the demands of collegiate athletics, sharing how he manages time, stays disciplined, and pushes through the pressures of being a first-year student at a competitive level. Beyond the track and classroom, Del also reflects on a meaningful injury he sustained in high school, a setback that could have derailed his athletic aspirations. He takes us through the mental and physical hurdles of recovery, self-doubt, and the resilience required to come back stronger. This episode is a deep dive into the mindset of a young athlete, touching on perseverance, self-belief, and the growth that comes from facing adversity head-on. Whether you’re a student-athlete, a coach, or someone looking for motivation to push through your own struggles, Del’s story will inspire you to keep going—no matter the obstacles. Tune in for a powerful conversation about grit, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence on and off the track!