The People of Penn State
Welcome to the People of Penn State Podcast — the podcast from the Penn State Alumni Association that brings you the incredible stories of Nittany Lions making their mark on the world!
Each episode, a rotating cast of hosts sit down with Penn State alumni who are changing the game in business, science, sports, the arts, and beyond. You never know who you'll hear from next — but you do know it'll be a conversation worth tuning in for!
The People of Penn State
Episode 110–Designing a Path to the Olympics with Dan Barefoot
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On this episode of The People of Penn State podcast, we chat with Dan Barefoot '13 A&A, a professional landscape architect and Team USA skeleton athlete who represented the United States at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina.
Dan shares how he discovered the sport after graduating from Penn State, what it took to balance a full-time career with the demands of elite international competition, and the journey from complete beginner to Olympian.
He also reflects on the power of perseverance, embracing uncertainty, and chasing ambitious goals while staying connected to his profession and community. Plus, hear what's next as he sets his sights on the 2030 Winter Olympics.
For more alumni stories, visit pennstatermag.com
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