Becoming the first American man to win an Olympic medal in luge has opened up a world of possibilities for Chris Mazdzer. “There are some endorsement deals coming my way,” the silver medalist told Cheddar. “This has completely changed my life. It hasn’t changed who I am, but it changes what I can do.” Mazdzer points out that Olympic athletes can work long and hard without ever seeing much financial rewards. He, for example, had been training for 21 years, juggling practice with bartending and working weddings just to make ends meet. He says, “Some athletes work two, three jobs, just to keep doing what they love doing.” To raise awareness, Mazdzer donated $5,000 -- about a third of his winnings -- to athlete-mentoring organization Classroom Champions. He’s also raised over $35,000 more in matched contributions. He’s also planning for a future after sports. “I want to go into financial planning, but I also want to go into...life fulfillment planning,” he said. “If you can manage how you view money and if you can manage how you feel about what you’re trying to do with your life…then you have the chance to be completely at one with yourself.” For the full interview, [click here](https://cheddar.com/videos/olympic-luger-chris-mazdzer-makes-history).

Share:
More In Sports
Closing Bell: January 24, 2018
Meryl Streep joins the cast of Big Little Lies." The White House announces it will roll out immigration Framework. Cheddar speaks with Danica Patrick about how she is readying for this race and life after Nascar. President Trump announces new tariffs on imported solar panels and washing machines. Burger King releases a net neutrality commercial. Hewlett Packard's CEO announcers her new venture.
Danica Patrick on How Racing Can Bring in More Fans
The professional race car driver says her sport is based on personalities. And with many big names getting out of the game, she says the industry has to get more interactive and offer more behind-the-scenes depth.
Opening Bell: January 24, 2018
The European Union fines Qualcomm for allegedly violating antitrust laws. Starbucks and Disney announce pay raises and better employee benefits thanks to savings from the new tax reform bill. We talk to the directors behind the newest Netflix series, "Dirty Money," premiering this Friday, January 26th. And Brett Holts, VP of Nike Running Footwear, introduces Nike's newest sneaker, the Epic React Flyknit.
Inside Nike's Newest Innovation
Brett Holts, Vice President of Nike Running Footwear, introduces Nike's newest sneaker, the Epic React Flyknit. The new shoe features a brand new foam compound.
Kicking Axe in Brooklyn
The future of business is getting active. More and more companies are focused on the customer's experience, rather than just a product. This Changes Things host Brad Smith aims for the bullseye at "Kick Axe," New York City's first axe-throwing venue. He talks to Founder Ginger Flesher about the business of axe throwing.
Will Super Bowl Matchup Affect Ratings?
Senior editor of FHM Magazine Nick Dimengo breaks down the Super Bowl matchup. He also explains the "Brady Effect" and whether or not "Patriots Fatigue" is a real thing.
Closing Bell: January 22, 2018
The government is close to reopening. The Senate voted Monday in favor of a temporary spending bill to fund the government until February 8th. Netflix announces its 4th quarter earnings. Actor Nicolas Cage sits down at Sundance to talk about the making of Revenge Thriller "Mandy". Ralph Lauren unveils its 2018 Team USA Olympic uniforms for the opening ceremony.
Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of WWE Raw
WWE stars Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Roman Reigns, and AJ Styles discuss the 25th anniversary of WWE's flagship show, "Raw." The four stars all agree it's incredible to be part of such a special event.
Load More