Breaking Down Stereotypes with Olympic Athlete Ilona Maher

Olympic athlete and Tik Tok star Ilona Maher’s confidence is contagious. She started playing Rugby as a senior in college then made it as an Olympic Rugby player in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics where she went viral on Tik Tok with her witty commentary and insightful view into the Olympic Village. Ilona is hilarious, and an incredible role model for women and girls by encouraging us to embrace our strength and athleticism. In this episode we talk about the false stereotypes around Rugby players, how playing a sport has helped her confidence, how to deal with people saying you’re “too much,” dating stories and advice, overcoming insecurities and so much more. We had a blast chatting with Ilona and know you’ll love this episode! P.S. Make sure to check her out on Tik Tok if you haven’t already.

“Not all bodies are meant to be slim and it’s such a fable that we’re told that you want to be as thin as possible in order to be beautiful.” - Ilona Maher

What we talk about:

  • Raeann’s new most embarrassing moment 

  • Raeann and Kristina’s take on the new Skims campaign

  • How playing a sport can increase your confidence

  • What’s helped Ilona become more confident 

  • How dating has been for Ilona

  • How to get past hangover anxiety 

  • Dispelling the stigma of being 200 pounds

  • Stereotypes vs the actual Rugby culture

  • Working through the fear of being “too much”

  • Ask Away: How to make friends with coworkers when you work remotely

“What’s helped me to get confidence is having a purpose or something to do with my body to show what it's capable of and appreciate it.” - Ilona Maher

New podcast episodes of Confident Collective drop every Tuesday.

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