Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club Featuring Candace Parker
Episode Title: INTERVIEW: Candace Parker Talks 'The Can-Do Mindset,' WNBA, Retirement, Relationship, Dr.Umar, Stephen A. +More
Release Date: June 3, 2025
Host: DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, and Charlamagne Tha God
Guest: Candace Parker, WNBA Star, Author, and Mother
Introduction
In this compelling episode of The Breakfast Club, hosts DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, and Charlamagne Tha God sit down with the legendary WNBA player Candace Parker. The conversation delves deep into Candace's journey, exploring her latest book, The Can-Do Mindset, her experiences in the WNBA, motherhood, retirement, and personal relationships.
The Can-Do Mindset
Candace Parker kicks off the discussion by explaining the inspiration behind her book, The Can-Do Mindset.
Candace Parker [02:56]:
"Growing up, my mom would always see the doubt in my eyes and she'd say, 'Can do.' It became my mantra and my voice in my head."
She elaborates that "CAN DO" stands for Community, Authenticity, Navigating Negativity, Loving the Dash (the journey), and Seizing and Creating Opportunity. This mindset has been pivotal in her personal and professional life, helping her cultivate resilience and follow her passions.
Achievements and Return to Chicago
Candace shares the emotional significance of her jersey retirement and winning a championship in her hometown.
Candace Parker [03:50]:
"To go back and play basketball in front of the people that first saw me pick up a ball, and then to win a championship in front of them, was super special."
She reflects on her childhood as a Chicago Bulls fan and how returning to Chicago to achieve these milestones was a dream come true.
Competition and Gender in Sports
The conversation shifts to the competitive nature of women in sports and societal perceptions.
Candace Parker [04:43]:
"Society always tries to put women in a box. As athletes, we fit outside that box. Whether you're too muscular or not competitive enough, showing a competitive nature isn't always seen as ladylike."
Candace discusses the challenges women face in being recognized for their competitiveness and the importance of visibility in advancing women's sports. She notes the positive changes in how women's basketball is being promoted and the increasing recognition of female athletes.
Motherhood and Personal Growth
Candace opens up about her journey through motherhood and how it has been both rewarding and challenging.
Candace Parker [07:21]:
"Motherhood is one of those things where I'm just so grateful for it. My kids have taught me so many lessons and humbled me in ways I never imagined."
She shares heartfelt moments, such as bonding with her 16-year-old daughter over TV shows and navigating the delicate balance of supporting her children's individuality, especially regarding her daughter's natural hair style.
Retirement and Identity
Candace discusses the emotional transition from being a professional athlete to retirement and the struggle to separate her identity from basketball.
Candace Parker [13:28]:
"When you retire, your identity of who and what you are is separated. You realize who saw you for who you are versus what you did. It's a mourning process."
She reflects on the challenges of maintaining her identity beyond basketball and the importance of finding new passions and roles post-retirement.
Relationship and Personal Life
The interview delves into Candace's personal life, particularly her relationship with her wife and the complexities of being a black woman in a bi-racial relationship.
Candace Parker [27:32]:
"I had to take a step back and evaluate who I am and who I want to be. Meeting my wife was unexpected, but she's been my best friend through the ups and downs."
She discusses societal judgments and the fear of acceptance within her extended family, highlighting the courage it took to embrace her true self.
Challenges and Overcoming Adversity
Candace shares the most difficult aspects of her career and personal life, including mental struggles during crucial game moments and the loss of her coach.
Candace Parker [37:23]:
"I struggled with closing seconds in games, feeling tense and conceding that it wasn't going to work out. It took a Kobe Bryant text message to remind me to go down shooting."
She emphasizes the importance of family and support systems in overcoming these challenges and maintaining a balanced mindset.
Reflections on the WNBA and Gender Disparities
Candace reflects on the differences in treatment between male and female athletes and the ongoing fight for equality in sports.
Candace Parker [24:09]:
"Sometimes I wonder how different my career would be if I were a man with the same talent. The WNBA has grown, but there's still a long way to go."
She acknowledges the strides made in the league's growth and the necessity of investment for its continued success, inspired by pioneering figures like Cheryl Miller and Nancy Lieberman.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, Candace shares her gratitude for her journey, the lessons learned, and her commitment to inspiring future generations. She encourages embracing the journey (the dash) and maintaining resilience through adversity.
Candace Parker [37:23]:
"I believe things will work out the way they need to. Commit to the process and grind."
The hosts express their appreciation, and Candace leaves listeners with a powerful reminder to adopt a Can-Do mindset in all aspects of life.
Notable Quotes:
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Candace Parker [02:56]: "It took me through high school, knocking down game-winning free throws to shoot, even now. And so then it became an acronym for community, Authenticity, Navigating negativity, Loving the dash, and seizing and creating opportunity."
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Candace Parker [04:43]: "Society always tries to put women in a box. As athletes, we fit outside that box."
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Candace Parker [07:21]: "My kids have taught me so many lessons and humbled me in ways I never imagined."
-
Candace Parker [13:28]: "When you retire, your identity of who and what you are is separated. You realize who saw you for who you are versus what you did."
-
Candace Parker [24:09]: "Sometimes I wonder how different my career would be if I were a man with the same talent."
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Candace Parker [37:23]: "I believe things will work out the way they need to. Commit to the process and grind."
Final Thoughts
Candace Parker's interview on The Breakfast Club offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a trailblazing athlete, mother, and author. Her insights on resilience, identity, and the pursuit of passion serve as an inspiration to listeners navigating their own journeys.