Podcast Summary: Chief Change Officer - Athena Bronson: Shifting Mindpower to Rebuild Life After an 8-Year Battle with Lyme Disease — Part One

Host: Vince Chan
Guest: Athena Bronson
Podcast: Chief Change Officer
Episode: Part One

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Chief Change Officer, host Vince Chen engages in an enlightening conversation with Athena Bronson, a resilient real estate agent from Denver, Colorado. This episode marks Part One of Athena's remarkable journey battling chronic Lyme disease, a struggle that has profoundly impacted her personal and professional life.

Athena's Background and Career Transition

Athena opens up about her early life and the unexpected path that led her to real estate. Raised in Breckenridge, Colorado, a town renowned for skiing, Athena was immersed in the sport from a young age. Her father, a professional skier, influenced her deeply, leading Athena to pursue a professional skiing career by the age of 15. However, after enduring nine knee surgeries, she transitioned into the real estate industry—an area she hadn't initially considered.

[05:41] Athena Bronson:
"Skiing truly set the stage for my success in business."

Despite her initial reservations about real estate, Athena found her calling through mentorship and a relationship-based approach to business. Within a year, she experienced significant success, building strong relationships and establishing herself in the Denver real estate market.

[07:10] Athena Bronson:
"I was at the top of my game, thought I was invincible..."

Diagnosis of Lyme Disease

Athena recounts the turning point in her life when she was diagnosed with Lyme disease at the age of 25. The disease took a severe toll on her immune system, leading to multiple autoimmune conditions and chronic pain.

[14:20] Athena Bronson:
"Lyme lays dormant in your system until something weakens your immune system and it can come out and take over."

Her diagnosis was precipitated by a neck surgery following a skiing accident, which compromised her immune system and allowed the Lyme bacteria to flourish. Athena was fortunate to consult a knowledgeable doctor who promptly diagnosed her condition, a rarity given Lyme disease's complex and often misunderstood nature.

[17:30] Athena Bronson:
"Lyme is the fastest-growing epidemic in the United States right now."

Impact on Personal and Professional Life

The chronic illness drastically altered Athena's daily life and professional trajectory. From a thriving real estate career, she found herself grappling with relentless pain, fatigue, and frequent hospital visits for plasma transfusions.

[21:31] Athena Bronson:
"Waking up in the morning feels like the most difficult task I've ever done."

Despite these challenges, Athena continues to lead a successful team at Compass in Denver. Her passion for real estate remains unwavering, serving as a crucial motivator that keeps her going through the darkest days.

[10:45] Athena Bronson:
"Helping people buy and sell a home is the biggest transaction you do in your life. Being part of each chapter through home is my why."

Coping Mechanisms and Mental Resilience

Athena emphasizes the importance of mental resilience in her battle against Lyme disease. Drawing parallels between her athletic background and her current struggles, she highlights how the grit developed through sports has been instrumental in her ability to persevere.

[22:15] Athena Bronson:
"The mental aspect of it is at least 50% of the challenge."

She shares practical strategies that help her navigate daily hardships, such as listening to favorite music or podcasts to lift her spirits and maintaining a strong support system comprising family, friends, and mentors. Athena underscores the necessity of being her own advocate, especially when dealing with a disease as complex as Lyme.

[26:00] Athena Bronson:
"You have to be your own biggest advocate. You are the one that can take the reins and say even when things are not going right, I'm going to figure out a way to make the best out of it."

Insights on Adversity and Growth

Athena reflects on how adversity has been a catalyst for personal growth, despite the immense pain it has caused. She believes that facing such challenges head-on has enabled her to develop a deeper understanding of herself and her capabilities.

[27:45] Athena Bronson:
"Nothing, you don't learn your greatest lessons, you don't grow when everything's going to plan."

Her journey serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity to adapt and thrive, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Conclusion and Teaser for Part Two

As the episode concludes, Vince Chen acknowledges the depth of Athena's experiences and the valuable lessons she imparts on resilience and transformation. He teases Part Two, where Athena will delve into how she not only survived Lyme disease but also rebuilt her support system and rejuvenated her career.

[30:02] Vince Chen:
"Tomorrow in Part Two, Athena will share how she not only survived, but found ways to thrive, rebuild her support system, and grow her career once again."

Key Takeaways

• Resilience Through Adversity: Athena's story underscores the importance of mental fortitude in overcoming life's unexpected challenges.

• Importance of Support Systems: Building and maintaining strong relationships can provide essential support during difficult times.

• Self-Advocacy: Taking charge of one's health and seeking knowledgeable professionals is crucial, especially for complex conditions like Lyme disease.

• Personal Growth: Adversity, while painful, can lead to significant personal and professional development.

Notable Quotes

• Athena Bronson:

  "Skiing is the best business school that I ever could have asked for."
  [05:41]

• Athena Bronson:

  "Lyme lays dormant in your system until something weakens your immune system and it can come out and take over."
  [14:20]

• Athena Bronson:

  "You have to be your own biggest advocate. You are the one that can take the reins and say even when things are not going right, I'm going to figure out a way to make the best out of it."
  [26:00]

• Vince Chen:

  "Your experience is a powerful example of this [Adversity Quotient]."
  [28:27]

Closing Remarks

This episode of Chief Change Officer offers a profound insight into Athena Bronson's unwavering spirit amidst her battle with Lyme disease. Her narrative is not just a testament to personal endurance but also serves as an inspiration for listeners striving to overcome their own challenges. Stay tuned for Part Two, where Athena will reveal how she transformed her life and career despite the odds.

For more inspiring stories and transformative discussions, subscribe to Chief Change Officer on Listen Notes, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.