Marianna Williamson, Part I

Marianna Williamson is a mom ,mental health advocate, nonprofit professional, and former elite gymnast who brings both personal experience and professional expertise to supporting athletes through difficult transitions.

Starting gymnastics in her hometown of Joplin, Missouri, Marianna's athletic journey took her to the U.S. National Gymnastics Team in the mid-90s, where she proudly represented her country at international competitions including the Goodwill Games in Russia and the Pacific Alliance Games in New Zealand.

When injuries in 1995 and 1996 abruptly ended her competitive career and Division I plans, Marianna faced the profound challenges of identity loss and depression—struggles that had few resources available at the time. The support she received from the UNC-Chapel Hill gymnastics program, where she transitioned to coaching, became the foundation for her life's work.

Today, Marianna is passionate about ensuring athletes have access to the mental health resources she wished had been available during her own transition. With over 20 years of nonprofit experience at organizations including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis, she volunteers with Athletes for Hope and serves on the Coalition of Athletic Communities for Mental Health. She also works as a career coach, helping current and former athletes navigate life after sport.

Work with Joy Hahn Silva Millora: www.instagram.com/with_joy.hs/

Work with Laura Hahn-Segundo Collins, LCSW: lcollinslcsw.com, @theathletepsychotherapist

Music by Pathfire: Nathan Collins and Sean Titone

Intro Edited by Ian Levenstein

Episode Edited by Hahnacity