The Reinvention Game
This space is for anyone at a crossroads, wondering what comes next. I write (and talk) about the messy, brave, and beautiful process of starting over.
Marta Ruszczynska
Show overview
The Reinvention Game has published 10 episodes during 2025. That works out to roughly 7 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence.
Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 40 min and 53 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Society & Culture show.
There hasn’t been a new episode in the last ninety days; the most recent episode landed 11 months ago. Published by Marta Ruszczynska.
From the publisher
Real people. Real turning points. Real stories of starting over. The Reinvention Game is a podcast about what happens when life doesn't go to plan—when the dream you've chased for years changes, fades, or falls apart. Hosted by Marta Ruszczynska, a former tennis player who knows what it’s like to walk away from a lifelong goal, this show dives deep into the messy, brave, and beautiful process of redefining who you are and what you want next. This isn’t about quick fixes or picture-perfect pivots. It’s about honest conversations with people who’ve faced uncertainty, let go of their original dream, and found meaning in unexpected places. Athletes, creatives, professionals—we explore what it takes to rebuild, reroute, and keep going. ✨ Because letting go doesn’t mean giving up. It means making space for something new. thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
Latest Episodes
The Human Side of Reinvention: Performance, Purpose, and Moving Forward | Episode 10 with Dr. James Weinstein
In this episode, Marta Ruszczyńska sits down with Dr. Jim Weinstein to explore the essential elements of reinvention through the lens of his own life experience and a deep commitment to lifelong learning. From his early years in the military to his current work in athlete engineering and human performance, Jim shares powerful insights on identity shifts, resilience, decision-making under pressure, and the quiet strength it takes to start over. This conversation offers a thoughtful examination of how we evolve and what it truly means to build a life aligned with who you are becoming.02:45 Introduction to Athlete Engineering and Human Performance05:05 The Role of Mental Strength in Performance06:22 Key Principles of High Human Performance09:27 Building Resilience and Adaptability12:40 Navigating Identity Loss and Life Transitions17:07 Finding New Goals and Passions19:00 Core Values and Adaptability in the Military22:21 Understanding Personality and Performance23:33 Personalized Approaches to Success27:22 The Importance of Lifelong Learning30:45 The Risk of Comparison31:24 Books That Shape Our Perspectives33:16 Navigating Life's Decisions35:33 Overcoming Personal Challenges37:28 Embracing the Present Moment38:16 Emotional Moment40:33 Terminal Sickness Scare45:38 The Pressure of Happiness47:07 The Value of Honest Conversations47:57 Finishing on the Light Note This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
When Your Identity Is Tied to What You Do—And That Ends | Episode 9 with Olivia (Liv) Jones
In this conversation, Olivia shares her journey from being a dedicated athlete to navigating life after her sports career. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from gymnastics to diving, and later to cheerleading, highlighting the impact of injuries on her identity. Olivia emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, setting personal goals, and the value of supportive relationships. She also introduces her initiative, Ex-Athlete Era, which aims to help former athletes find their footing in life after their athletic careers. Through her experiences, Olivia inspires others to embrace change, invest in themselves, and redefine success on their terms.00:44 Introduction to Olivia's Journey 01:30 Early Sports Experiences and Gymnastics 04:30 Challenges in Gymnastics and Transition to Diving 06:30 The Joy of Diving and Aspirations 09:31 The Shift to Cheerleading and Team Dynamics 11:10 Mindset Shifts Through Sport Transitions 13:55 Body Image Issues 17:39 Coping with Injury 18:50 Fears That Came with the Injury 20:55 Identity Crisis 23:00 Reflections on the Journey and Future Directions 27:50 A Journey of Self-Discovery 30:10 Finding Freedom: The Importance of Core Values 33:06 Rebuilding After Sport: The Path to Fulfillment 35:35 Creating a New Era: The Birth of the Ex-Athlete Era 39:50 Courage to Share: The Power of Vulnerability 41:56 Lessons Learned: Growth Beyond Athletics 46:40 Defining Success: From External Validation to Internal Fulfillment 49:44 Rediscovering Identity: Embracing Change and Growth 53:10 Goal Setting: Evolving from Small Wins to Big Dreams 54:24 Life After Sport: Embracing New Opportunities 55:25 The Future of the Ex-Athlete Era: Building a Community This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
When Burnout Becomes the Breakthrough | Episode 8 with Jenna Konyok
This week on The Reinvention Game, I’m thrilled to introduce someone who inspires me deeply, not just for the bravery she’s shown in reinventing her life, but for the compassion and purpose that guides her every step: my friend Jenna Konyok.Jenna’s story is anything but ordinary. She once dreamed of becoming a marine biologist, but life took her through a very different current, working in the juvenile justice system, supporting children with complex behavioral challenges, and even spending time inside a prison for her studies. Jenna thought she’d found her calling, until one conversation changed everything and led her underneath the surface.A spontaneous dive trip to Mexico reconnected her to the part of herself she had buried. And from there, everything shifted. Jenna sold all her belongings, worked two full-time jobs to save money, and eventually left behind a stable career to chase her dream: diving with sharks and advocating for marine conservation.In this episode, you’ll hear:• How setbacks can make you stronger• What burnout taught her about listening to her intuition• The importance of second chances—whether for kids, people behind bars, or for yourself• How following your passion can drastically change your lifeJenna is one of the most grounded yet adventurous people I know. Her story will encourage anyone who’s ever felt stuck, conflicted, or uncertain about what’s next.🎧 Tune in now and get swept up in her journeyAfter you listen, I’d love to hear from you! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
Course Correction: Finding Yourself in Constant Reinvention | Episode 7 with Mara (Helga Marie Løvenskiold Kveseth)
In this conversation, Marta Ruszczynska interviews Mara, a former professional athlete turned sailor, who shares her inspiring journey of resilience and transformation. Mara discusses her transition from competitive sports to sailing, the challenges of injuries, and the importance of community and support in overcoming obstacles. She emphasizes the significance of mental health, emotional resilience, and the power of shared experiences in personal growth. Mara's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the joy of helping others succeed.Follow Mara's JourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/classicmara_/GGR 2026: https://goldengloberace.com/skippers/helga-marie-mara-lovenskiold-kveseth/Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ClassicMaraYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS1QdzXSreltyMyClAjwWSASail Ripple Effect YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UC5yQtWj1R--f7TCDpzZ5iXgSail Ripple Effect Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sailingrippleeffect/00:44 Introduction and Background2:20 Mara’s Life02:52 The Journey of an Athlete05:33 Injuries and Mental Resilience15:51 Importance of Having a Goal18:46 Importance of Right Mindset and Self-Belief20:07 The Role of Environment in Personal Growth22:29 The Power of Pushing Boundaries26:24 Emotional Challenges in Competitive Sports30:06 The Impact of Community on Performance33:27 Reinventing Identity Through Change38:36 Finding Goals That Give Purpose43:20 The Journey of Sailing and Self-Discovery47:00 Life Lesson49:50 The Joy of Supporting Others' Success This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
The Wild Path of Purpose: Growth, Grit, and Finding Her Voice | Episode 6 with Ganyah Goldstein
In this conversation, wildlife biologist Ganyah Goldstein shares her inspiring journey from aspiring actress to dedicated conservationist. She discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of visualization and resilience, and the lessons learned from her experiences in wildlife research. Ganyah emphasizes the significance of support from family and mentors, the power of gratitude, and the need for individuals to find their purpose beyond traditional career paths. Her story encourages listeners to pursue their passions and connect with nature, regardless of their current circumstances.01:35 Introduction to Ganya Goldstein's Journey02:29 The Spark of Passion for Nature04:07 Dreams and Aspirations: From Acting to Conservation06:29 Navigating the Path to Wildlife Conservation09:27 The Importance of a Gap Year10:17 Finding Inner Focus and Motivation11:48 The Power of Visualization16:14 Dealing with Failure and Resilience19:20 Lessons from the Gap Year20:45 Retaking Exams and Overcoming Doubts26:23 Shifting Dreams and Staying True to Purpose27:10 The Spark of Research Passion29:22 Life-Changing Experiences in Borneo30:45 Lessons from the Animal Kingdom33:03 Navigating Career Crossroads35:32 Strategies for Goal Setting36:55 Embracing Delayed Gratification40:30 Overcoming Career Uncertainty44:26 Finding Purpose and Passion46:40 Reinventing Career Paths48:57 Anyone Can Work With Wildlfie50:45 Work With Ganyah This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
When You Quit A "Perfect" Life To Chase Something Deeper | Episode 5 with Sandra Zumstein
In this episode of the Reinvent Reinvention Game podcast, host Marta Ruszczynska speaks with Sandra Zumstein, a Swiss-Bolivian freediver, about her journey of self-discovery, cultural identity, and the transformative power of the ocean. Sandra shares her experiences growing up with two distinct cultures, her transition from a stable career in sales to pursuing her passion for freediving, and the importance of family support in her journey. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by women, the significance of embracing one's feminine energy, and the advice Sandra has for young women navigating their own paths. As she looks to the future, Sandra expresses her desire to build a community around freediving and adventure, encouraging others to take risks and follow their passions. 00:47 Introduction to Sandra's Journey03:37 Growing up with two different cultures05:07 Future Aspirations and Dreams06:33 Discovering Freediving10:05 Breaking Point & Life Before Freediving16:24 Building Confidence and Trusting Yourself21:16 Passion Leads to Success22:06 Upcoming Dreams23:09 Learning More About Freediving27:27 Advice on Making Bold Decisions to Change One’s Life30:43 Upcoming Adventures and Travel Plans31:48 Getting Started with Freediving34:13 The Influence of Family on Life Choices36:16 Embracing Change and New Experiences This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
When the Uniform Changes, But the Mission Stays | Episode 4 with Francisco Catalá
In this conversation, Colonel Francisco Catalá shares his journey of resilience, transformation, and leadership, from his early ambitions in volleyball to his successful military career. He discusses the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and finding purpose in life after sports. Through personal anecdotes, he emphasizes the value of family support, the lessons learned from sports, and the significance of embracing change and new beginnings. The conversation concludes with his dreams of traveling the world and sharing experiences with others.Colonel FRANCISCO J. CATALÁ - Bio00:47 Introduction to Resilience and Leadership01:53 The Journey from Volleyball to Military08:55 Navigating Identity and Transition14:08 Finding Purpose in the Military16:00 Career Progression and Team Dynamics22:27 Fostering Resilience in Others23:56 Embracing Time and Personal Growth25:37 Embracing Life's Challenges33:40 Lessons from Sports and Military34:44 Continuous Learning and Growth35:56 Advice to My Younger Self36:54 Navigating Life's Transitions37:06 Looking Forward to New Adventures This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
Hitting Reset: What Happens When the Plan No Longer Fits? | Episode 3 with Adam Chan
In this episode of The Reinvention Game, Marta Ruszczynska speaks with Adam Chan, a former tennis player who faced multiple injuries and transitioned from a sports career to a corporate role at British Airways. Adam shares his journey of resilience, the challenges of letting go of his dreams, and how he found fulfillment in coaching and now in operations planning. The conversation explores themes of identity, uncertainty, and the importance of seeking help during tough times, ultimately emphasizing that reinvention is a continuous process.00:35 Introduction to Adam's Journey03:25 Early Aspirations in Tennis06:00 Injuries and Their Impact07:00 Transitioning from Player to Coach09:00 College Experience and Lessons Learned11:30 Team Dynamics and Personal Growth15:05 Navigating Life Changes and Moving Back Home20:00 Corporate Life, Transition, and Reflections on the Past26:08 Finding Fulfillment in New Roles31:35 Reinventing Identity After Sports34:53 Lessons Learned in Resilience and Uncertainty36:48 The Rewards of Reinvention38:03 Embracing New Beginnings – Advice for Listeners38:48 Closing Thoughts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
Leaving the Dream, Losing Direction, Getting Back on Track—Then Finding New York | Episode 2 with Monika Gębarzewska
In this episode, Marta Ruszczynska interviews Monika Gębarzewska, a former track and field athlete who transitioned into race management. Monika shares her journey from competitive athletics to finding her identity post-sports, the challenges she faced during the COVID pandemic, and her eventual move to New York City. She discusses the importance of self-awareness, the value of teamwork, and the lessons learned from both running and life. Monika emphasizes the significance of pursuing one's passions and the need for resilience in the face of unexpected changes.Chapters00:35 Introduction to Monika's Journey01:15 From Dance to Running: Early Aspirations02:42 Shifting Dreams: From Olympics to College Running03:30 Athlete’s Life07:26 The College Experience: Team Dynamics and Growth11:07 The Impact of COVID-19 on Identity and Career13:30 Navigating Life After Athletics: Finding New Paths23:00 Job Search Journey: Overcoming Challenges and Networking26:20 Navigating Job Search and Networking Success28:00 Finding Passion in the Marathon Industry29:29 Transitioning to Life in New York City31:50 Coping with Homesickness and Embracing Change33:17 Lessons from Running and Life35:46 Finding Fulfillment in Daily Life37:05 Achieving Dreams and Future Aspirations40:20 Advice for Overcoming Setbacks This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com
This Wasn't the Plan: My Story & The Start of The Reinvention Game | Episode 1
In the inaugural episode of the Reinvention Game Podcast, Marta Ruszczynska shares her personal journey from being a dedicated tennis player to navigating the challenges of career transition. She reflects on her early passion for tennis, the injuries that halted her progress, and the mental struggles she faced. Marta emphasizes the importance of reinvention and seeks to explore how others have successfully navigated similar paths. The episode sets the stage for future discussions on overcoming setbacks and finding new passions. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thereinventiongamepodcast.substack.com