Supporting the Whole Person: Riley Poduje’s Full Circle Journey in Athlete Development

This podcast episode features an interview with Riley Poduje, a former intern at Professional Association ofAthlete Development Specialists (PAADS) who now works professionally in the sports industry. The discussion highlights Poduje’s career trajectory, from managing a collegiate basketball team to handling player engagement and operations for a Major League Soccer club. She emphasizes that successful athlete development requires building trust and supporting the whole person rather than just the performer. Poduje also outlines her vision for the field, advocating for tailored education, personal branding resources, and mental health support for players. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the importance of interpersonal relationships and the behind-the-scenes work necessary to help athletes transition through different stages of their lives.