Real Talk with SEC Champion Alia Armstrong

This week on RealTalk, I had an amazing time meeting LSU Star Alia Armstrong. Born and raised in California, Alia’s mom saw her talent for hurdles very early. Traveling far out of their range to get competition, Armstrong made her way to the USATF Junior Olympics Record books. Alia, an SEC Champion, now holds the LSU 60mh record (7.81), running a time that also makes her NCAA #2 all-time. What’s even crazier is Alia ran a collegiate record 100mh (12.33w) at 2022 Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays this year, but the wind was .5 over the legal limit. She has her eyes set on taking that record and so much more. 

One way Alia remains calm during her track meet days is to carry her favorite teddy bear for comfort. Multitalented, Alia also has a passion for singing and dancing. As far as entertainment, her goals after college are to find her way into acting, starting with commercials. She showcases her talents on Instagram (@_aliaarmstrong). Scroll down to see my favorite dancing video. 

In this episode, Alia takes us through her career from the very beginning. Born and raised in California, Alia’s mom made many sacrifices for both of her daughters, deciding that New Orleans was a better fit for her family. Living in a single parent home, Alia faced many struggles and adversity but remained resilient. Armstrong shares how her relationship with God helps her through all the adversity she overcomes. I am overly excited to watch the rest of her season unfold as you should be too! 

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Jonielle Smith Speaks on Losing Stephen Francis, Surviving A Car Crash, Unsponsored 10.8 | Tee Show – RealTalkwithTee

Jonielle Smith sits down for a chat about losing her late coach Stephen Francis, surviving a car crash, battling chronic injuries, and running 10.89 unsponsored.Jonielle Smith speaks honestly about grief, resilience, and the business reality of sprinting without a shoe deal. She details learning under Stephen Francis, the emotional impact of his passing, surviving a car crash, managing chronic injuries through mental health work and education, and what it takes to stay in Jamaica's sprint system. We also break down the financial implications of racing unsponsored, her market value heading into championship season, and the path to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

1. Jonielle Smith Speaks on Losing Stephen Francis, Surviving A Car Crash, Unsponsored 10.8 | Tee Show 50:59
2. Masai Russell: Building Her Brand, Upgrading Her Team & Proving Everyone Wrong | Real Talk W Tee 43:56
3. Shamier Little Took a Leap of Faith and Grew Her Wings | Real Talk w Tee 51:07
4. Real Talk with Quincy Wilson | YOUNGEST OLYMPIC CHAMPION 44:32
5. EP 5| "Aren't We All Working Regular Jobs??" Dylan Beard on Track Pro Life 43:34