The good feeling I get from contributing rivals anything I felt on the Olympic stand in Albertville.

One of my mottos not only just in skating but in life in general and I try to enforce it as well, is like no regrets and just like going for it.

I learned to put 100 percent into what you're doing. I learned about setting goals for yourself, knowing where you want to be and taking small steps toward those goals. I learned about adversity and how to get past it.

I'd try to channel my nervous energy in a positive way into strength and endurance. It didn't always work.

Searching for funds to continue my skating career when I was 17, I called the Women's Sports Foundation in New York. The intern who answered the phone suggested that I might be a great candidate for the Travel and Training fund, and she sent me an application form. I applied for a grant. With the funds I was awarded, I bought a new pair of skates and a plane ticket to the 1988 National Championships, where I achieved my highest national finish. Four years later, I won the gold medal at the 1992 Olympic Games.

The past couple years training with Kurt have really brought inspiration into my skating.

As a professional, I think we're not being judged solely on technical ability anymore. People really want to be entertained and enjoy what they're watching.