After a short break after my 100th episode, the podcast is back with a returning guest. Corey Vaughn is here for his 4th episode. In 2024, we spoke both in the Spring and in the Fall as he shared his 1000 day plan to see how far he could take his water ski goals if he chose to really go for it. The plan culminated with the World Waterski Championship held in late August of 2025 in Italy.
Corey has been both brutally honest and deeply courageous in sharing his journey to uncover his full potential. As he said more than once, he wanted to find that edge. If you are someone who has wondered for yourself: what if?, this conversation is for you.
We do get to the “results” of his 1000 day plan in this conversation, and his season ended with an unexpected twist. We get into how he is handling that twist, and what happens next for him, which is really inspiring. And there is even more gold in this conversation as we explored the behind-the-scenes thoughts, feelings and beliefs that Corey navigated as he balanced multiples pressures: the declaration he made to go for it, his training, both mental and physical, his family obligations, his business running a vibrant ski school and even what it is to turn a passion into both a quest and a business.
Here’s what Corey has to say about himself: Sometimes I still pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming. I have been living my life’s dream since 2009, and it just keeps unfolding in surprising, fulfilling and exciting ways. From my daily activities at the Bum Pass Water Ski Club to my interactions with people all over the world, while coaching or skiing on the pro tour, I aim to stay rooted in the mission that animates my entire career: to spread, foster and promote the three things I hold dear - Peace, Love & Waterskiing.
I hope you enjoy this conversation with Corey Vaughn.
Show Outline
- Corey Vaughn's Journey and 1000 Day Plan (0:00)
- The Importance of Recovery and Mental Focus (33:26)
- Adapting to New Challenges and Reframing Goals (34:37)
- Balancing Family Life and Professional Goals (34:51)
- The Role of Self-Belief and Mental Shifts (35:08)
- The Impact of Surrounding Influences (35:23)
- Reflecting on the World Championships (35:39)
- Looking Forward to Future Challenges (35:55)
- Preliminary Day and High Expectations (36:11)
- Finals and Performance (36:23)
- Reflections on the Tournament (1:16:33)
- Impact of the Journey (1:20:10)
- Ankle Injury and Future Plans (1:32:57)
- Balancing Passion and Responsibilities (1:45:32)
- Leadership and Staff Management (1:50:05)
- Final Reflections and Future Goals (1:56:30)