Chief Change Officer Podcast: Episode #206
Athena Brownson vs. Lyme Disease: A Story of Grit and Comebacks — Part One

Host: Vince Chan
Guest: Athena Bronson
Release Date: March 1, 2025

Introduction

In Episode #206 of Chief Change Officer, host Vince Chan engages listeners with the inspiring and harrowing journey of Athena Bronson, a Denver-based real estate agent whose life took an unexpected and challenging turn after being diagnosed with Lyme disease. This episode, titled "Athena Brownson vs. Lyme Disease: A Story of Grit and Comebacks — Part One," delves deep into Athena's resilience and determination to overcome chronic illness while maintaining a successful career.

Athena’s Early Life and Skiing Career

Athena begins by sharing her roots in Breckenridge, Colorado, a small mountain town renowned for skiing. Raised by a professional skier father, Athena was immersed in the world of skiing from a young age. "I learned to walk with skis on me from the time I could walk," she recalls (03:51). By fifteen, she was a professional skier, traveling the globe and undergoing rigorous training, which she describes as "the best business school" that later shaped her professional success.

However, the demanding career took a toll, leading to nine knee surgeries. This physical strain prompted her to transition from athletics to a completely different field—real estate—a path she never anticipated.

Transition to Real Estate

Despite growing up around real estate due to her father's profession as a home builder, Athena never considered it a viable career choice. "I grew up thinking real estate was a little bit corny and there was a used car salesman mentality," she admits (06:15). Her perspective shifted a decade ago during a pivotal dinner conversation with a successful real estate agent friend, Charlotte, who encouraged her to explore the field. Inspired by Charlotte’s mentorship and the relationship-based approach of the real estate brokerage she joined, Athena earned her real estate license within two months and quickly found success.

"Athena shares, 'I quit my job the next day, signed up for real estate school, and got my real estate license about two months later.'" (09:30). Her early years in real estate were marked by rapid success and strong relationships, leading her to believe she was at the pinnacle of her career by her third year.

Diagnosis with Lyme Disease

However, Athena's life took a dramatic turn three and a half years into her real estate career. She began experiencing severe and unexplained health issues, culminating in a Lyme disease diagnosis at age 25. "Lyme disease took out my immune system and caused multiple autoimmune diseases," she explains (12:29). The diagnosis was a result of a tick bite that remained undetected until a weakened immune system from neck surgery for a skiing injury allowed the disease to manifest painfully.

Athena emphasizes the rarity and complexity of Lyme disease, noting, "Lyme is the fastest-growing epidemic in the United States right now" (14:53). Despite her proactive search for a knowledgeable doctor, many remain unaware of the disease's impact and the importance of early intervention.

Living with Chronic Lyme Disease

For the past seven and a half years, Athena has battled chronic Lyme disease, which has drastically altered her daily life and professional trajectory. "I don't even remember what it's like to feel okay. I live in constant chronic pain," she shares candidly (14:10). Her routine involves regular plasma transfusions and frequent hospital visits, making even simple daily tasks exhausting.

Athena describes the constant struggle with pain and fatigue: "Waking up in the morning feels like the most difficult task I've ever done" (19:09). Despite these challenges, she remains passionate about her career in real estate, driven by her love for people and the meaningful transactions she facilitates. "Helping them to buy and sell a home is the biggest transaction you do in your life," she states (09:30).

Mental Resilience and Coping Mechanisms

A significant focus of the episode is Athena’s mental resilience in the face of relentless adversity. Drawing from her background as a professional athlete, she emphasizes the importance of grit and a positive mindset. "I believe that if life did not give us adversity and challenges, we would never have the opportunity for growth," Athena reflects (09:30).

She outlines various strategies that help her cope, including music, podcasts, and creating small daily routines to maintain a semblance of normalcy. "Putting on some of my favorite music or podcast and just blast it and grab one of my makes me a great cup of coffee," she explains (19:09). Athena also highlights the critical role of support systems, whether through family, friends, or professional mentors, in maintaining her drive to push forward.

Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two

Vince Chan wraps up the episode by acknowledging the profound impact of Athena’s story, particularly her ability to advocate for herself and maintain a thriving career despite her illness. "The mental resilience that really keeps us going," Vince remarks (26:06), echoing Athena’s sentiments on the importance of mental strength in overcoming life’s toughest challenges.

Listeners are left with anticipation for Part Two, where Athena promises to share how she not only survived Lyme disease but also found ways to thrive, rebuild her support system, and grow her career once again.

Notable Quotes:

• Athena Bronson (03:51): "Skiing truly set the stage for my success in business."
• Athena Bronson (09:30): "Helping them to buy and sell a home is the biggest transaction you do in your life."
• Athena Bronson (14:53): "Lyme is the fastest-growing epidemic in the United States right now."
• Athena Bronson (19:09): "Waking up in the morning feels like the most difficult task I've ever done."
• Vince Chan (26:06): "The mental resilience that really keeps us going."

For those inspired by Athena’s story and looking to foster their own personal and professional transformation, Chief Change Officer offers a wealth of insights from global role models. Subscribe to Chief Change Officer on LinkedIn, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube to stay updated with transformative content.

Timestamps:

• 03:37: Introduction to Athena’s story
• 12:16: Discussion on Lyme disease diagnosis
• 14:10: Detailed explanation of Lyme disease
• 19:09: Impact of Lyme disease on daily life
• 26:06: Importance of mental resilience

Note: Timestamps are based on the provided transcript and correspond to significant points in the conversation.