Episode 125 Lauren Sisler Former Rutgers Gymnast / ESPN Sportscaster/ Author of Shatter Proof

On this episode of the RU Strong Podcast, host Jeff Durr welcomes an extraordinary guest whose story is the definition of resilience and strength, Lauren Sisler.

Lauren is a Rutgers University graduate and former Scarlet Knights gymnast, where she was a four-time letter winner and team captain. After graduating, she went on to build an incredible career in sports media as an Emmy Award-winning sports broadcaster and reporter for ESPN and the SEC Network, covering college football and gymnastics across the country. She has also been honored as Alabama Sportscaster of the Year and recognized as one of the top sports anchors in the industry.

But Lauren’s journey goes far beyond athletics and broadcasting.

As a freshman at Rutgers, Lauren faced an unimaginable tragedy when she lost both of her parents within hours of each other. That life-altering experience forced her to confront grief, shame, and adversity at a young age, ultimately shaping the person and professional she would become. She later shared that powerful story in her book “Shatter Proof.”

Today, Lauren uses her platform not only as a broadcaster but also as a speaker and advocate for mental health, addiction awareness, and resilience. She also serves on the Addiction Prevention Coalition in Birmingham and recently joined the Rutgers Foundation Board of Directors, continuing to give back to the university that helped support her during one of the most difficult seasons of her life.

In this episode, Lauren shares her journey from Rutgers gymnastics to ESPN, the lessons she learned about perseverance and identity, and how adversity can shape purpose.

This is a powerful conversation about resilience, leadership, and finding strength through life’s toughest challenges.

💪 Welcome to the RU Strong Podcast, Lauren Sisler.