Living in Santa Barbara - From Pro Football to Art: Chris Gocong’s Journey of Reinvention

Living in Santa Barbara

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Gocong, a former NFL linebacker whose life took an unexpected turn from the high-pressure world of professional football to the quiet, introspective space of an artist’s studio. After a career-ending injury, Chris found a new path in art, discovering surprising similarities between the intense battles on the football field and the creative process of painting.

We dive into his story of transformation—how he dealt with the mental and physical toll of head trauma, found relief in creative expression, and built a growing passion for portrait painting. Along the way, Chris shares his thoughts on resilience, mental health, and the importance of always learning new things.

This is an honest and reflective conversation about reinventing yourself, the challenges of modern life, and how art became a way for Chris to heal and evolve. Join us for a compelling dialogue that weaves together his past as a professional athlete with his present as an artist and family man.

You can view Chris’s art and find his contact at:

www.ChrisGocong.com

Or on instagram @chrisgocong

Thank you for listening! Santa Barbara is a true mecca of creativity and culture. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share it with your friends and family. I’d also be grateful if you could rate the show—hopefully with 5 stars!—on the homepage. Your feedback and comments are always welcome and appreciated. Thanks again!

Kathy Henry

Village Properties

1250 Coast Village Road

Santa Barbara, CA 93108

805-637-4400

[e-mail]

DRE: 01403548

Music by Pala, “Seagull Surfing.” Guitar solo and rearrangement by my son, Maddox Henry.