About this episode
Jani Sievinen is a retired Finnish swimmer who achieved great success in the sport in the 1990s alongside compatriot, Antti Kasvio, who won Bronze in the 200 Free at the 1992 Olympics. Jani specialized in the IM events and was known for his versatility across all four swim strokes. He was considered one of the top swimmers in the world during his career, breaking the 200 IM World Record at the 1994 World Championships - it lasted almost 9 years until Michael Phelps broke it. He won 5 World Championship titles, broke 9 World Records, and won Silver in the 200 IM at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics behind his friend, Hungarian Attila Czene. After retiring from competitive swimming, Jani struggled with his identity and depression. He found fulfillment in a career coaching and mentoring young swimmers. He has contributed to the development of the sport in Finland by visiting swim clubs, conducting clinics, and sharing his knowledge and experiences with the next generation of athletes. Our Sponsors: EO SWIM BETTER: Analyse your stroke technique with eo's SwimBETTER handsets. Go to eolab.com/SwimBETTER, and use code BRETT at checkout to get 9 months free on a single gold annual membership with any handset purchase. BRATTER PA IMMIGRATION LAW : Exclusive immigration representation of athletes, entrepreneurs, artists, investors, and entertainers. BEINE WELLNESS BUILDING: Individualize your nutrition with genetic testing and personalized plans. Eat, supplement, and recover based on your genetics. SWIMSTRONG DRYLAND: SwimStrong Dryland inspires and changes the lives of competitive swimmers through strength and leadership training, motivation and care. IMAGINE SWIMMING: NYC's Premier Swim School is looking for instructors and coaches! Lessons for all ages, from Baby Swim to adults, along with competitive club teams. INTL SWIMMING HALL OF FAME: Help preserve swimming history by joining the 1 in 1000 Club! #swimming #worldaquatics #olympics 00:00 - Welcome Jani Sievinen! 01:46 - Choosing Swimming Over Other Winter Sports 07:29 - An Olympic Future 10:16 - Bring Trained By Your Father 17:16 - 1992 Barcelona Olympics 23:45 - Moving Forward to Atlanta 28:24 - Breaking First World Record 34:23 - Father-Son Relationship 36:12 - How To Further Evolve in Races 38:11 - Leon Marchand and Lessons Learned 48:21 - Breaking Into Coaching