What's it like to be the best in the entire world at something? And how do you view failure along the way? 

Today, we dive into the world of elite athletes. Finely-tuned human machines. My guest is Olympic Gold Medalist, Joey Cheek. Joey has won a gold, silver, and bronze in long track speed skating.  It’s less chaotic than it’s cousin short track speed skating. Joey took home the Bronze in Salt Lake City in the 1000 meters in 2002, then the Silver and Gold in 2006 – in the 1000m and 500m respectively. He’s got the whole set. 

In addition to winning medals, he was selected by his USA teammates in 2006 to carry the US flag in the closing ceremonies. I can’t imagine what a cool honor that would have been. 

After Joey was done competing, he spoke out publicly against the atrocities happening in Darfur and was denied entrance into China for the 2008 Olympic games because of it. We talk about that drama. 

Joey now lives in Denver and we caught up recently. Welcome to the Botchcast, Mr. Joey Cheek.