Episode 155 | Kyle Merber

Emotional Shift

Kyle Merber shares his emotional journey transitioning from professional athletics to a new career path. He reflects on the unique experience of having a daily goal as an athlete and the challenge of finding similar motivation in other areas of life 1. Despite being mentally prepared for this transition, Kyle faced difficulties in job searching, applying to over 150 companies without success 2. He ultimately found a new path, maintaining a connection to running as a hobby rather than a profession 3.

It was almost like a weight was lifted from my shoulders. Like I didn't have to keep pretending that I want to do it anymore.

--- Kyle Merber

This shift allowed him to appreciate running in a different light, focusing on the joy it brings rather than the pressure to perform.

   

Career Transition

Planning for a post-running career was a significant challenge for Kyle Merber. Despite being surrounded by non-runners and having a clear understanding that his athletic career would eventually end, he struggled to find a job outside of running 2. The USATF foundation and other resources provided some guidance, but the transition was not straightforward 4. Kyle's experiences outside of competitive running, such as his work with the New Jersey New York Track Club and his entrepreneurial ventures, became crucial talking points in his job search.

Once you tell someone you've broken four minutes in the mile, it doesn't matter if it's 3:59 or 3:30. To them, it's all the same.

--- Kyle Merber

These experiences highlighted his skills beyond athletics, eventually leading to opportunities that aligned with his interests and abilities.