What I Learned From the Legendary Bonnie Thunders
Have you ever had one of those moments where you take a leap of faith, reach out to someone you admire, and they actually say yes? That’s exactly what happened when I messaged Bonnie Thunders on Instagram to invite her to the GIRLBRAVE podcast. Not only did she respond, but she also brought her thoughtful insights, fierce energy, and incredible story to share with all of us.
Bonnie Thunders isn’t just a star in the world of Roller Derby—she’s a living legend. Often called the LeBron James of Roller Derby, Bonnie has achieved accolades like Rookie of the Year, MVP, Best Jammer, and the coveted Derby News Network Reader’s Most Valuable Jammer award multiple times. She’s also represented Team USA in the Roller Derby World Cup in 2011, 2014, and 2018. And yet, despite her accolades, she’s as down-to-earth as they come.
Here are some of the gems Bonnie shared about her journey, her philosophy, and what it takes to succeed—not just in Roller Derby, but in life.
Being the “LeBron James” of Roller Derby
Hearing herself compared to one of the greatest athletes of all time feels surreal to Bonnie. While she appreciates how it brings recognition to the sport she loves, she acknowledges that Roller Derby isn’t yet a professional sport. “It’s gratifying, but it also feels a little strange,” she admitted. Her humility and perspective remind us that success isn’t just about titles—it’s about staying true to your roots.
The Meaning Behind “Bonnie Thunders”
Bonnie’s name is a nod to Johnny Thunders, a guitarist from the punk rock scene. She chose it simply because it sounded cool—a quintessential Derby move—but over time, it became part of her identity on the track. While the name didn’t change how she viewed herself, she acknowledged its power in shaping how others perceived her. It’s a reminder of how small choices can leave lasting impressions.
Her Relentless Drive
For Bonnie, the motivation to give her all on the track isn’t about personal glory—it’s about being the best teammate she can be. “I want to perform at my top level because others are depending on me,” she shared. Her commitment to her team speaks volumes about the importance of community, collaboration, and showing up for those who count on you.
Why Failure Is Key to Growth
Bonnie credits her ability to handle pressure to one simple but profound practice: embracing failure. During training, she intentionally puts herself in vulnerable positions, allowing herself to “fail” in controlled environments so she can learn and adapt. “Practice is where I let myself fail,” she said, highlighting the importance of creating space for mistakes. Her approach encourages us to see failure not as a setback but as a necessary step toward growth.
Staying Zen in the Heat of Competition
When she’s skating, Bonnie focuses on maintaining a calm, Zen-like mindset. Too much emotion can cloud judgment, she explained, so staying grounded is essential. Over the years, she’s found the balance between passion and composure—a balance that keeps her focused and effective. Her ability to center herself is a skill we could all benefit from in high-pressure situations.
Advice for Young Athletes
Bonnie has a message for young athletes who might doubt their abilities: being a great teammate is often more valuable than being the best player. “A team full of superstars isn’t as effective as a team full of good teammates,” she said. This perspective is especially important for those who might feel like they’re not “good enough.” Showing up for your team, supporting others, and fostering collaboration are just as crucial as individual talent.
Teaching Girls to Be Fierce
As a mom, I loved Bonnie’s advice for teaching girls to embrace their fierceness. She acknowledged that fear of judgment often holds girls back, but open communication with teammates can help them break through that barrier. “You’re challenging each other to make each other better,” she said. It’s about finding the balance between respect and competitiveness, and letting go of the fear of offending or failing.
Why the Process Matters More Than Perfection
In a culture obsessed with being the “best,” Bonnie challenges the narrative. She believes in focusing on the process, not the outcome. “It’s not the end goal that’s important—it’s the path to get there,” she explained. This philosophy applies to more than sports; it’s a powerful reminder to value growth, learning, and connection along the way.
Bonnie Thunders isn’t just a phenomenal athlete—she’s a role model for resilience, vulnerability, and teamwork. Her wisdom transcends Roller Derby, offering lessons we can all take to heart. Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or someone striving to grow, Bonnie’s story reminds us to show up, embrace failure, and trust the process.
If you want to hear more from Bonnie, be sure to check out the full interview on the GIRLBRAVE podcast. I promise you’ll walk away feeling inspired. Thank you, Bonnie, for sharing your journey with us!