Empowering You to Overcome Challenges and Grow

We created 2nd Wind Motivation as a space to support those navigating change, self-doubt, or mental roadblocks. With a foundation in sports psychology and years of academic experience, our mission is to empower people to reconnect with their inner strength and take intentional steps toward living a more meaningful, focused life. We bring together real-world insight and expert guidance to help you build a mindset that supports your growth.

Meet Cheryl Griffin

Cheryl Griffin has drawn media attention nationwide, leading to appearances in Shape Magazine, Sports Illustrated, Runner's World, Inside Triathlon, USA Today and ESPN, to name a few.

Cheryl has competed in 54 marathons, including Boston and New York, and was overall female winner of the Blue Angel Marathon.

She has been a member of Team USA, winning silver medals in the 2004 World Triathlon (Portugal) and the 2004 World Duathlon (Belgium) as well as the bronze in the 2005 World Championship in Australia Cheryl represented USA in the 2008 World Duathlon Championship in Italy.

She was named All-American in both triathlon and duathlon (2003, 2004 & 2005).

Cheryl was Kentucky's NCAA Woman of the Year (1993) and National Inspirational Athlete of the Year (1994).

She holds a Master’s Degree in Sports Psychology from the University of Tennessee and a B.A. in English from Centre College, where she is an Athletic Hall of Fame inductee.

She served as communications associate, sports information director and cross-country coach.

Cheryl is a Sports Psychology Consultant, motivational speaker, writer, and host of Hart to Heart Talk Show.

She teaches sports psychology at the University of Louisville and is currently working on several books that guide even non-athletes toward the attainment of life goals by implementing the principles used by successful athletes.

Cheryl's mission is to help you see with new eyes. She gives you the tools to perceive yourself, your sport, and the world around you through a more positive lens.

The following quote sums up what Cheryl does with all her clients-both individuals, businesses, and teams:

"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes."

- Marcel Proust

Your Guide to Lasting Change

At the core of 2nd Wind Motivation is Cheryl Griffin, a passionate educator, and mental performance coach dedicated to helping others tap into their inner strength. With a Master's degree in Sport Psychology and Peak Performance, Cheryl combines the science of the mind with the art of personal growth. Her work is built on years of academic study and real-world experience, allowing her to provide practical tools for lasting change.

Expertise in Mental Performance

Sports Psychology Instructor at the University of Louisville: Cheryl teaches students how to apply mental performance strategies to enhance both academic and athletic performance.
Practitioner of Applied Psychology: With her experience working with athletes, students, and individuals across diverse fields, Cheryl has honed her ability to provide deep insights and effective strategies for success.
Compassionate, Results-Driven Approach: Cheryl believes that growth comes from facing fears, taking intentional actions, and aligning with your authentic self—principles she applies in her coaching and mentoring.

Mission

To empower people to achieve their best by using mental performance strategies and the mindset principles that helped Cheryl herself achieve success in her own life.

Athletic Achievements

Cheryl Griffin's athletic career is nothing short of inspiring. Her accomplishments have solidified her as a role model for perseverance, discipline, and excellence:

54 Marathons Completed: Including iconic races like the Boston Marathon and New York Marathon.
Overall Female Winner of the Blue Angel Marathon.
Team USA Member:
- Silver Medals at the 2004 World Triathlon (Portugal) and 2004 World Duathlon (Belgium).
- Bronze Medal at the 2005 World Championship in Australia.
- Top-Ten Finisher at the 2008 World Duathlon in Italy.
All-American Honors in Triathlon and Duathlon (2003, 2004, 2005).

These milestones speak to Cheryl’s drive and the mental toughness she developed as an elite athlete. Her success is a direct result of the mindset and psychological principles she teaches others today.

Media Presence and Recognition

Cheryl’s expertise and achievements have led to national recognition, with appearances in top media outlets such as:

Shape Magazine
Sports Illustrated
Runner’s World
Inside Triathlon
USA Today
ESPN

These features have made Cheryl a prominent figure in the world of sports psychology and personal development, further solidifying her credibility as a trusted expert.

Academic Background

Degree in English: Earned from Centre College, with a strong focus on communication and leadership.
Athletic Involvement: Served as Communications Associate, Sports Information Director, and Cross-Country Coach.
Hall of Fame Honor: Inducted into Centre College’s Athletic Hall of Fame for her contributions.
Master’s in Sport Psychology: Completed at the University of Tennessee, specializing in mental performance strategies.

Approach to Personal Growth

Cheryl's approach is grounded, compassionate, and deeply results-driven. She combines her academic knowledge with practical, real-world insights to help individuals achieve their goals.

Sport Psychology Consultant: Cheryl applies her knowledge to help athletes optimize their mental performance and mental toughness.
Motivational Speaker: Cheryl inspires audiences with her story and expertise, motivating them to take actionable steps toward their personal goals.
Author: Cheryl is working on a book that guides non-athletes toward the achievement of life goals by applying the same principles successful athletes used to reach their dreams.
University Educator: As a sports psychology instructor, Cheryl teaches students how to utilize mental performance strategies both on and off the field.

Facing Fears and Taking Action

Cheryl's approach to growth and development is rooted in the belief that true transformation occurs when you confront your fears and take intentional, aligned action.

Face Your Fears: Cheryl teaches that facing your fears head-on is a crucial part of growth.
Intentional Action: Taking purposeful, deliberate steps toward your goals will lead to lasting success.
Align with Your Authentic Self: True growth comes when you are in alignment with who you truly are, both as an athlete and as an individual.

Built for Lasting Transformation

Cheryl’s work brings together the power of science, real-world experience, and genuine empathy. Every service is thoughtfully designed to support lasting transformation—whether you're striving for success in sports or in life. Reach out to start building the mental strength and confidence to thrive.

Plan Your Next Move