FEAR CONTROLS NOTHING | Embracing Empowerment with Nia Akins | Season 4

From The Risers Hub podcast, your host Nicol invites Nia Akins—Olympic runner, USA 800-meter champion, and multi-talented artist to join her in discussing the journey of goal-setting, persistence, and the courage to face fear. Nia’s insights remind us that growth is a process, not a destination. Here are seven takeaways from this week's episode to help you set meaningful goals and stay the course.

1. Start With Purpose and Belief

Every goal starts with a strong "why." As Nia emphasized, you must believe in your purpose before taking steps toward it. If you don’t believe that your efforts will yield results, procrastination will follow. Ask yourself: Why is this goal important to me? How will achieving it impact my life?

2. Learn From the Past, But Focus on Growth

Nia shared that her goal-setting process begins at the end of each track season by reflecting on what she wants to improve—not on mistakes, but on opportunities for growth. This forward-focused mindset helps build momentum and a sense of progress.

3. Break It Down and Work Backwards

To achieve big goals, work backwards from where you want to be. Identify the smaller, actionable steps that will get you closer to the finish line. Whether it’s tweaking your nutrition, refining your training, or creating a consistent schedule, small, deliberate changes add up over time.

4. Stay Flexible and Accountable

Life throws curveballs—illness, unexpected challenges, or even reaching your goal earlier than anticipated. Nia advises creating backup plans and checking in with yourself daily to stay on track. Accountability and flexibility allow you to adapt without losing sight of your purpose.

5. Put in the Work and Trust the Process

Whether it’s running, music, or art, the results you see in others are a culmination of effort and persistence. Nia reminds us that what’s shared publicly doesn’t always reveal the struggles behind the scenes. Trust your own journey and commit to the work necessary to achieve your vision.

6. Don’t Let Fear Control You

Fear can be paralyzing, especially when you're putting something deeply personal into the world. Nia shared her approach: acknowledge the fear, but don’t let it stop you. Whether it’s standing at the starting line of a race or releasing a song, the courage to move forward will always outweigh the fear of judgment.

7. Embrace Your Support System

Having a team or community that supports your vision can make all the difference. For Nia, joining a worship team added purpose and collaboration to her music journey. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you to stay focused on your goals.

Final Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection

Both the host and Nia agree: nobody is perfect, and perfection isn’t the goal. It’s about persistence, adaptability, and courage in the face of challenges. When you stumble, remember that every day is a chance to reset, reflect, and move forward with purpose.

As Nia’s sweatshirt says: “Let Fear Control Nothing.” Whether it’s in running, art, or life, take that first step—even if it’s scary—and keep moving toward the person you’re striving to become.

Which of these takeaways resonates with you the most?

Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s keep the conversation going!