Barriers to Breakthroughs

Today's guest is Olympic gold medalist Kasia Gruchalla-Wesierski. After years of competing in World Cup events and making the national team, Kasia qualified to be in the women's 8 event for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. With just over a month until the Olympics, Kasia had a horrific bike crash where she broke her collarbone and had to get several stitches. With everything considered, she still competed in the Olympics and earned the gold medal no less.Specific topics include;How she was able to recover so quicklyWhat to do when doubtful thoughts creep inHow to mentally prepare for big competitionsGuest LinksKasia's Instagram: @kasiagdubAG Sports Agent: agsportsinc.com/team/kasiaLet's Connect!Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastPlease reach out if you want to be featured on the podcast + any questions you have: emmapwoodhouse@gmail.com OR dm me through the Instagram page above!Rate + Review on Apple Podcasts If you are loving the podcast, please consider leaving a review! It helps the show to support other athletes > to feel less alone with what they're going through! Click here or scroll down, tap to rate 5 stars, and select "Write a Review"! Be sure to let me know what you love most about the episode! 

Today's episode is with marathon runner and OCD and mental health advocate Cali Werner! Cali is a former D1 track athlete out of Rice University where she received a National Honorable Mention in track! Cali now has a master's degree in social work from Baylor University specializing in OCD, she's an author of a Children's book called Anxious Annie (which we get into in the episode) AND to add more to her amazing life resume, she competed in the Olympic trails in 2020 in the marathon! Cali opens up about her life and athletic experiences with OCD and how those OCD behaviors really affected her performance! She also gives a great description of what OCD truly is, the different subtypes and common misconceptions. Get ready to learn and understand what it's like to have OCD!Other topics include:Recognizing certain OCD behaviors especially in competitions Some advice she would give her younger selfWhat it was like to write a book about her experiencesLinksFollow Cali on Instagram: @caliroperwernerCheck out her Book - Anxious Annie here!Learn About OCD:iocdf.orgpeaceofmind.comLet's Connect!Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastPlease reach out if you want to be featured on the podcast + any questions you have: emmapwoodhouse@gmail.com OR dm me through the Instagram page above!Rate + Review on Apple Podcasts If you are loving the podcast, please consider leaving a review! It helps the show to support other athletes > to feel less alone with what they're going through! Click here or scroll down, tap to rate 5 stars, and select "Write a Review"! Be sure to let me know what you love most about the episode! 

Today's episode is with professional hockey player Reagan Rust! She is a former D1 hockey player who played for RIT and then Boston University where she was inducted into the Beanpot Hall of Fame and was actually the first women's D1 hockey player to come from Mississippi! Reagan is also a mental health advocate, podcast host of the Unpaved Path Podcast, and founder of the Female Athlete Society.This episode is filled with amazing stories that are both heartwarming and shocking! She talks about her childhood hockey trips where she would have to drive MANY hours just to get to the one hockey rink in the state! She goes into detail about her mental health struggles especially in the darkest moments of her life, and then she brings that all together to talk about what she's up to now and how she's advocating for people who deal with their mental health battles every day. Other topics include:Advice on going to therapy Getting out of your comfort zoneShifting your beliefs on mental healthTrigger Warning! Topics of suicide and suicidal thoughts are talked about in this episode so if that is triggering for you, please do not listen to this episode.Links:Reagan's Instagram: @rea.rustListen to her podcast: The Unpaved Path PodcastThe Female Athlete Society: @femaleathletesocietyLet's Connect!Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastPlease reach out if you want to be featured on the podcast + any questions you have: emmapwoodhouse@gmail.com OR dm me through the Instagram page above!Rate + Review on Apple Podcasts If you are loving the podcast, please consider leaving a review! It helps the show to support other athletes > to feel less alone with what they're going through! Click here or scroll down, tap to rate 5 stars, and select "Write a Review"! Be sure to let me know what you love most about the episode! 

Today's is with Miranda Bacon, former D1 Swimmer from the University of New Hampshire where she was a 9-Time All-America East recipient, a 2-Time inductee into the National College Athlete Honors Society, and she supported her team to 3 America East Championships out of her 4 years!Miranda talks about her mental health journey from noticing her mood shift in high school, being sexually assaulted during her spring break freshman year as well as being diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and PTSD.  Miranda gives us a glimpse into her mind and everything she has learned along the way with taking care of her mental health!  Other topics include;Her panic attack experiencesHow she felt about her diagnosisAdvice about going to therapy + getting the help you needTrigger Warning: Topics of sexual assault and trauma are talked about in this episode so if that is triggering for you, please do not listen to this episode!LinksConnect with Miranda on Instagram: @mirbaconLet's Connect!Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastPlease reach out if you want to be featured on the podcast + any questions you have: emmapwoodhouse@gmail.com OR dm me through the Instagram page above!Rate + Review on Apple Podcasts If you are loving the podcast, please consider leaving a review! It helps the show to support other athletes > to feel less alone with what they're going through! Click here or scroll down, tap to rate 5 stars, and select "Write a Review"! Be sure to let me know what you love most about the episode! 

Today's episode is all about slowing down. As an athlete, we are told to always push through and keep working until we win but is that really benefitting us? Throughout my career, especially at my lowest points, I felt like I just needed to work harder, and then it would finally click but it didn't.When we are told to slow down by coaches or even our parents, that's the last thing we want to do! After feeling defeated day after day, I finally stopped and realized that I needed to go back to basics, and look at the stress and pressure I was putting on myself. Looking back, I can see why I wasn't performing at my best.Points I'll dig into in this episode are;What I used to believe about being a successful athleteWhy slowing down is so important to do especially when stressedTips on how to slow down and figure out what's making you anxiousLinksFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastContact me to be featured on the podcast + any questions you have: emmapwoodhouse@gmail.com OR dm me through the Instagram page above!Rate + Review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify! If you are loving the podcast, please consider leaving a review! It helps the show to support other athletes > to feel less alone with what they're going through! Click here or scroll down, tap to rate 5 stars, and select "Write a Review"! Be sure to let me know what you love most about the episode! 

Today's episode features former track and field athlete Amanda Whitham! This high jumper and hurdler competed for Bryant University where she's a Top-10 Bryant record holder in pentathlon + 60m hurdles! Amanda also served as co-president for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), and was a Senior Service Commencement honoree!Amanda had so much momentum going into her junior year until it ended abruptly after a serious ankle injury. With the universal adjustment to COVID in Spring 2020, Amanda faced the absence of her season & her confidence. Facing chronic self-doubt + anxiety, her final 2 years at Bryant were filled with major self-discovery above all.Themes throughout this episode will be around motives, why it's important to know your WHY of competing, identifying who you are as a person outside of sports and why exploring your identity in different facets of life makes sports more fun! Topics include;Her daily struggle with self-image & worthiness during injury recovery Mantras & strategies to break through the trap of “self-limiting beliefs”  Ways to push past “imposter syndrome” & make an impact in your community Advice on where to start with finding your identity, from small steps to big leapsLinksConnect with AmandaInstagram- @amandawhitttLinkedIn- Amanda C. WhithamTikTok- @mindfulmandiAmanda's EssentialsFor girl boss vibes: playlist link here!For self-discovery: The 4 Agreements - Don Miguel Ruiz For deep sleep: playlist link here!Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastRate + Review on Apple Podcasts If you are loving the podcast, please consider leaving a review! It helps the show to support other athletes > to feel less alone with what they're going through! Click here or scroll down, tap to rate 5 stars, and select "Write a Review"! Be sure to let me know what you love most about the episode! 

My mental health has not been great these past few months. Feeling stressed about all the things I want to achieve, and feeling guilty when I want to rest (which makes me more stressed)!This was an episode that I've been wanting to do and at the same time, I've been talking myself out of doing it. I want to be open and honest about what I'm going through and how I'm feeling like my guests have each week. I hope you'll feel heard during this episode and know that I understand how you feel! Specific talking points include;Negative beliefs from being an athlete that show up in lifeNoticing what triggers meWhat I've learned about myself in 2021LinksFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastRate + Review on Apple Podcasts & Now on Spotify! If you are loving the podcast, please consider leaving a review! It helps the show to support other athletes > to feel less alone with what they're going through! Click here or scroll down, tap to rate 5 stars, and select "Write a Review"! Be sure to let me know what you love most about the episode! 

Today's episode features Sofia Borea, a former D1 soccer player who played for the University of New Hampshire! During her time at UNH, she played in every single game, and achieved the America East All-Rookie Team honor in her freshman year!In this episode, we talk about many important topics athletes face during their careers and especially when they retire from their sport. Sofia first talks about her time at UNH where she struggled with her anxiety, body image, and perfectionist tendencies that affected how she felt about herself. She then goes into how the covid pandemic affected her career and mental health where she went through depression after losing her sport.Sofia shares some amazing advice from what she wanted to hear as an athlete to ways you can show yourself more self-love on and off the field!Specific Topics Include:Receiving comments about her body and how that made her feelCraving external validation from people during and after sportsLosing motivation to workout as a retired-athleteCreating a fitness account inspired by those difficult timesLinksFollow Sofia on Instagram: @sofiaborea + @sofboreafitnessTo all my former athletes out there... follow @sofboreafitness to get inspired to workout again! I love how real and honest she is about how she's feeling and lets you know that you're not alone if you're not motivated! Go check it out here!Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastRate + Review on Apple Podcasts If you are loving the podcast, please consider leaving a review! It helps the show to support other athletes > to feel less alone with what they're going through! Click here or scroll down, tap to rate 5 stars, and select "Write a Review"! Be sure to let me know what you love most about the episode! 

Today's episode features Canadian skeleton athlete Grace Dafoe! Grace is a part of the Canadian National team where she has competed in several North American cups and international competitions where she has several podium finishes! Grace also hopes to live out her Olympic dream one day so she is working hard to make that happen!In this interview, we first talk about her skeleton journey, and how she discovered a sport of skeleton! Then we get into her self-discovery moment in her career where she had to decide if she wanted to continue with the sport when she was at the lowest point in her career! Grace goes into detail about what she did to get out of the slump to find her love for the sport again and also what she encourages athletes to ask themselves and their team when they feel that way in their own careers!Other topics include:Advice + exercises in regards to self-discoveryCommitting to a new sport at an older ageBeing a part of sport-focused organizations LinksFollow Grace on Instagram: @gracedafoeGrace's Podcast: Face First PodcastOrganizations Mentioned:Fast and FemaleClassroom ChampionsKids Sport CanadaCAN FundFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastRate + Review on Apple Podcasts If you are loving the podcast, please consider leaving a review! It helps the show to support other athletes > to feel less alone with what they're going through! Click here or scroll down, tap to rate 5 stars, and select "Write a Review"! Be sure to let me know what you love most about the episode! 

Today's episode is back with Erika Ward! Former D1 Volleyball player for Bryant University where she became the Division 1 career digs record holder, helped her team to win the NorthEast Conference Tournament, and earned a second-team All-NorthEast award in 2018!This episode is split up into 2 parts because there were just so many important nuggets to talk about! In the previous episode (Ep. 030), she talked all about her body image issues throughout college, comparing herself to her teammates in the weight room as well as being able to feel good about her body now and the practices she put in place to get there!Now for part 2, we dig into more of her anxiety struggles, the adjustments she felt going into college as well as some tools and advice that helped her deal with both of these things.Certain topics include:Dealing with anxiety in her everyday life, especially in volleyballAdapting to the college schedule (which she didn't expect to be affected by)Adjustments to team culture and vibing with her teammatesLinksFollow Erika on Instagram: @erikamwardErika's Book Recommendations:Mind Gym by Gary Mack Resisting Happiness by Matthew Kelly(Devotional) Jesus Calling by Sarah YoungFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Today's episode is with Former D1 Volleyball player Erika Ward. She's a recent graduate from Bryant University where she became the Division 1 career digs record holder, helped her team to win the NorthEast Conference Tournament and earned a second-team All-NorthEast award in 2018!This episode is going to be split up into 2 parts because there were just so many important nuggets to talk about! In the first episode, Erika talks about her volleyball career, experiencing body image issues before and during her time in university, comparing herself to her teammates and looking back on what she has learned about herself and body since then.Specific topics include:Receiving compliments about her body (that weren't really compliments)Struggling with expectations of self, team, and food intakeHow she's able to feel happy about herself in her bodyLinksFollow Erika on Instagram: @erikamwardFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Today's episode is with Maddy Price, Olympic, World Championship, and former collegiate track and field athlete who has competed for Canada at multiple Junior World and World Championship events, competed collegiately for Duke University earning multiple indoor and outdoor All-American titles as well as most recently earning 4th place with team Canada at the Tokyo Olympics in the 4x400 m relay! In this episode, we talk about SO many important tips and tricks of what's made her a successful athlete as well as learning about her journey throughout her career so far! We talk about her childhood of growing up with the Olympic dream, her time at Duke University, getting surgery a year out from the Olympics, and of course her time at the Olympics! More topics in this episode include;Finding support in others when her father passedReframing negative self-talkPrimal vs technical cues for focus (in her experience)Letting go of your emotionsWhat she didn't expect when becoming an OlympianCreating a simple plan for successLinksFollow Maddy on Instagram: @maddypricelessCheck out her website: maddyprice.netSign up for mentoring sessions with Maddy with Voice of Sport here!Contact Maddy's Agent- Georgia Simmerling of AG Sports Inc: agsportsinc.comBook Instant Coaching with Maddy here!Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastBe sure to leave a review and rate the podcast over on Apple Podcasts :) 

Today's episode is with Sarah Golemme, Div 2 soccer player at Concordia University, Saint Paul in Minnesota! In this conversation, we talk about her journey through her soccer career, her mental health journey with depression and also continuing a legacy for one of her good friends. Before we start the episode, I do want to preface that we talk about suicide in parts of our conversation so if that is triggering for you, please skip this episode this week! Other topics include;Things that go unsaid about depressionHow she copes with her mental healthBeing ok if the popular coping tools don't work for herCo-founding a foundation in honor of her teammate Jordyn ClarkA message for people who are dealing with depression right nowDisclaimer- Topics of suicide and suicidal thoughts are talked about in this episode so if that is triggering for you, please do not listen to this episode!LinksFollow Sarah on Instagram: @sarahkg_Support the Jordyn Clark Foundation: jordynclark.orgIf you want to learn more about depression or need to seek help for yourself or others, check out these links:The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health - camh.caAnxiety & Depression Association of America - adaa.orgFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Today's guests are Lia Barskey and Alexa Rivera from the Beyond the Blocks podcast! These two former NCAA swimmers randomly found each other and realized they shared similar experiences in college. In creating the podcast, their mission is to create a community for retired swimmers to navigate athletic retirement and to advocate for mental health in swimming. In this episode, we will talk about their experiences of competing in college, dealing with depression, and finding their identity after retirement. Other topics include;Transitioning into collegeWhat helps them cope with their depressionHow the concept of the Beyond the Blocks podcast came to lifeWhat they wish they knew heading into retirementLinksFollow Beyond the Blocks on Instagram: @beyondtheblocksJoin the Beyond the Blocks Facebook Community here!Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastWant to improve your mindset to finally start achieving your goals? Let's work together! Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! 

Today's guest is Canadian softball player Larissa Franklin! This outfielder has competed with the Canadian national team at multiple international events throughout her career such as the Pan American Games, winning gold in 2015 and silver in 2019, the Women's Softball World Championships, winning bronze in 2016 and 2018, and most recently winning bronze at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics!In this episode, Larissa talks about her journey up until the Olympics, her mental health struggles, dealing with negative thoughts and motivations, how to be more authentically you in your life, and "Discovering What's in Your Back Pocket".Other topics include;Lessons learned in the NCAAFinding wins at every practice and every dayFavourite moments from the OlympicsTips on figuring out who you areLinksFollow Larissa on Instagram: @larissafranklin26Learn more about her motivational speaking: larissafranklin.com/speakingFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastWant to improve your mindset to finally start achieving your goals? Let's work together! Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! 

Today's guest is Olympic and multi Pan-American Games medalist Haley Daniels who is coming off a whirlwind of a year of competing in her first Olympic games and it was the first games ever to feature women's canoe events! Haley has been an advocate for gender equality in her sport and was one of the many women athletes who lobbied for the right for their events to be in the Olympics. Haley talks about the work going on behind the scenes whether that be for gender equality, coming up with the money to fund her sport every year, and of course, all the work that comes with being a high-level athlete.Other topics include;The turning point in her careerPreparing for the OlympicsComing up with fundraising ideasAdvice for other athletes trying to raise moneyLife lessons learned from her sportLINKSFollow Haley on Instagram: @haleydanskiSupport the podcast by writing a review on Apple Podcasts here! Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastWant to improve your mindset to finally start achieving your goals? Let's work together! Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! 

Today's guest is Emily Dolloff-Holt, former Division 1 swimmer from the University of New Hampshire. During her time at UNH, she earned multiple medals at America East Championships and helped the team to 3 All-America East Championship titles! Emily comes on the podcast to share her mental health story and her experiences with anxiety and depression through her younger years and into college. Emily talks openly about the tough moments in her life where she really struggled and how she was able to get through them. Other topics include;Stigmas heard around mental health growing upThe importance of putting your mental health firstHow she's able to talk openly about her story3 things Emily does every day to cope with her mental healthWhat she wishes people knew about anxiety and depressionThe advice she would give to someone struggling right nowDisclaimer- Suicidal thoughts and self-harm are talked about in this episode so if that is triggering for you, this will not be the episode for you!For those wondering (forgot to clarify in the episode), SAAC = Student Athletic Advisory Committee! :)If you want to learn more about depression or need to seek help for yourself or others, check out these links:The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health - camh.caAnxiety & Depression Association of America - adaa.orgLinksReach out to Emily on Instagram: @emilydolloffholtPlease leave a review on Apple Podcasts here to support the podcast! :)  https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/barriers-to-breakthroughs/id1565161091Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastWant to improve your mindset to finally start achieving your goals? Let's work together! Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! 

Today's episode features Canadian alpine ski racer Valerie Grenier! She has been a very successful ski racer already in her young career by earning multiple top 20 finishes in World Cup Giant Slalom events as well as top 5 finishes in speed events! Through all of her success has come great obstacles. After a fall in a training run in 2019, she ended up fracturing her tibia, fibula and ankle, and was on the long road to recovery. But as many strong, driven athletes do, she came back from injury better than ever!Topics include;Who inspired her growing upWhat she thinks about when she's going down the courseWhat she tells herself when she makes a mistake in order to keep goingHow she mentally got through recoveryGaining back her confidence in her mind + bodySetting goals for the season aheadThings she wish she knew earlier in her careerLinksFollow Valerie on Instagram: @valeriegrenierCheck out her Website: www.valeriegrenier.comWant to improve your mindset to finally start achieving your goals? Let's work together! Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastIf you love this podcast and want to support it, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts here :)  https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/barriers-to-breakthroughs/id1565161091

Former Olympic and NCAA artistic gymnast Kristina Vaculik comes on the podcast to talk about her journey of making the Canadian Olympic team in 2012 and the obstacles she's had along the way. Throughout her career, she has won multiple medals at the Pan American Games and Pacific Rim Championships as well as achieving great accolades at Stanford University such as being a first team All-American in multiple events and achieving Pac-12 all-academic honorable mentions. In 2008, Kristina had her sights set on going to the Olympics and when she learned she didn't qualify, she was heartbroken. After hearing the news, she decided to finally deal with her injuries and had surgery on her elbow which took her away from competition for a year. Taking that break led her to digging deep into why she wanted to succeed as a gymnast and has shared all of her thoughts and experiences in this interview!Other topics include;Growing up with an Olympic gold medalist as a coachHow her year break from gymnastics motivated + inspired herHer decision to attend Stanford University and compete in the NCAAHow competing in the NCAA helped her to compete in LondonHer experiences at the Olympic GamesBlocking the external and internal noiseThe biggest lesson she's learned in her careerLinksFollow Kristina on Instagram: @kayvacWant to improve your mindset to finally start achieving your goals? Let's work together! Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastIf you love this podcast and want to support it, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts here :)  https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/barriers-to-breakthroughs/id1565161091

2x Paralympic Ski Racer Erin Latimer, comes on the podcast to reflect on her experiences as a para-athlete and what she's learned along the way. During her professional career, she earned several WC podium finishes and top 10 finishes at the Paralympics in 2014 and 2018. From not even thinking about becoming a high-performance athlete to competing for Canada on the world stage, she's learned to balance her passion for skiing while still being a top competitor. Other topics include;Growing up with a physical impairmentBlocking out the internal noiseManaging expectationsBeing flexible with your goals and routineMental and physical preparations for the Paralympics Changing the narrative that you create in your mindLinksWant to improve your mindset to finally start achieving your goals? Let's work together! Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastIf you love this podcast and want to support it, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts here :)  https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/barriers-to-breakthroughs/id1565161091

Today's episode features Katie Vincent, Canadian sprint canoeist, world champion and Olympic bronze medalist! She comes on the podcast to talk about her experiences at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and what it means for her to be a part of the Olympic debut of her sport. Other topics include;Mental preparation for the OlympicsDealing with big race nervesLearning from her mistakes during the OlympicsWhat she says to herself while racingMental tools she uses to help her perform at her bestAdvice she's received that's motivated her along the wayLinks:Katie's Instagram: @katie.20.100_Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastIf you love this podcast and want to support it, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts here :)  https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/barriers-to-breakthroughs/id1565161091

In today's episode, Emma talks about one of the most useful, most underrated secrets to athlete success (in her opinion). It's a tool used by many successful athletes if not all of them and it's crucial for self-reflection and improvement in your sport! Emma include the benefits of this tool, how to start using it, and how to make it a habit!Links:Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastIf you love this podcast and want to support it, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts here :)  https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/barriers-to-breakthroughs/id1565161091

Emma sits down to share her story and experiences with ADHD, how her diagnosis changed her life as well as speaking into the common misconceptions that surround ADHD.Links:Book a Free 15 min Strategy Call with Emma here! Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastIf you love this podcast and want to support it, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts here :)  https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/barriers-to-breakthroughs/id1565161091

Today's episode features Sophie Kitchen who competed in the NCAA golf circuit for the University of Minnesota and Williams College! She comes on the podcast to talk about her experiences of sexism in the world of golf, and about the age old saying “gentlemen only, ladies forbidden!” Other topics include;Making the decision to transfer schoolsBalancing athletics and academicsExperiences with being a female caddyHow she was able to bounce back after a bad roundAdvice for those who are dealing with sexism Links!Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastIf you love this podcast and want to support it, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts here :)  https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/barriers-to-breakthroughs/id1565161091

Today's episode features World Cup ski racer and mental health advocate Alice Merryweather! Throughout her career (so far), Alice has had several top 15 finishes in the speed events, placed 1st in the downhill at the 2017 World Junior Championships as well as competing in the 2018 Olympic Games! Through all her success as a ski racer, she has reached her biggest challenge yet with developing an eating disorder during the pandemic. She now is a mental health advocate for athletes that are dealing with eating disorders by sharing her experiences and story! Other topics include;The moment she knew she needed helpWhat she's learned through seeking treatmentDealing with negative thoughts around foodEffects of perfectionism What the most important thing to know about eating disordersWhat she thinks would have helped her most to discover her eating disorderAdvice for those that are experiencing E.D.ResourcesIf you want to learn more about eating disorders or need to seek help for yourself or others:https://nedic.cahttps://www.nationaleatingdisorders.orgLinksAlice's Instagram: @aliweather_Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Olympic Gold Medalist Sydney Payne comes on the podcast to talk about her journey from switching sports to start her rowing career to competing in the Olympic Games! Sydney provides some behind the scenes intel from her experiences in Tokyo and what allowed her to perform at her best! Other topics discussed were;The mindset switch of competing in a individual vs team sportCompeting in the NCAA for a dominant rowing teamWhat she learned through her college career What motivated her to win the gold with her teamThoughts she said to herself during the raceThe best advice her coach has given herLinks:Sydney's Instagram: @sydneyrpayneFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Colligate Diver Allison Stefanelli comes back on the podcast and brings her friend Maddy Chao (also a colligate diver) as we talk about something that's come to light during these Tokyo Olympic games where Simone Biles is experiencing the "twisties" and is unable to compete in her qualified events! Both Maddy and Allison have experienced the twisties in their careers and we really got to dive deep on what exactly the twisties are, what it feels like to have them and how they're typically caused. Other topics discussed were;Their diving routines that helped them perform at their bestAsian-American representation with Suni Lee winning the All-Around titleWhy the twisties aren't talked aboutWhat coaches can do better with moving forwardThoughts on the pressure Americans have to win goldThe stigma of mental health and invisible injuriesWhat lessons they've learned through sports that they use in their everyday lifeAdvice for athletes who are dealing with their own mental battlesLinks:Allison's Instagram: @allisonstefanelliMaddy's Instagram: @maddychaoFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Fencer Alanna Goldie comes on the podcast to talk about her journey coming from a fencing family all the way to qualifying for the Olympics! Throughout her career, she has competed at many prestigious events such as the Youth Olympic Games, World Championships, and the NCAA Championships! In this episode, Alanna opens up about her bullying experiences with her previous coach and how she was able to come forward. Some other topics discussed are;The Tokyo Olympics, what it's like, protocols, meeting other athletes?Mentally preparing for competitions in her own unique wayOvercoming negative thoughtsLessons learned from competing in the NCAAUsing her ADHD to her advantageKnowing what gaslighting looks and feels likeBullying Resources:Bullying Canada: bullyingcanada.caKid's Help Phone: kidshelpphone.caLinks:Alanna's Instagram: @lannagoldieAlanna's Etsy Shop: PaintingsByLannaAlanna's Painting Instagram: @paintingsbylannaFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Professional alpine ski racer and U.S. Ski Team member Bella Wright shares her story of growing up dreaming to be a ski racer and not taking the traditional path of going to college. Bella opens up about what she's learned throughout her career thus far and some mental tools she uses in order for her to perform at her best! This episode consists of other topics such as;Going against the grain and following her passionThe mental and physical challenges of a knee injuryFunding her career through her teenage yearsAdapting to the national teamDealing with pressures and expectationsTrusting your ability and believing in yourself to perform at your bestResourcesBella's Instagram: @bellswrightFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

On today's episode, Emma talks about an exercise that CHANGED HER ATHLETIC CAREER AROUND! She's explains her secret sauce and a 3-step process to go with it! Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Former collegiate runner Meaghan Wessel comes on the podcast to talk about her journey with having an eating disorder and how it affected everything in her life! Meaghan gets real about her thoughts, feelings and experiences through the peak of her E.D to her recovery. She is now a certified Baptiste Power Yoga instructor and has never felt better about her body!  In today's episode, we discuss topics such as;Thoughts + feelings during her eating disorderThe recovery processHow yoga has changed her lifeThe stigma around getting professional helpAdvice for athletes who deal with eating disorders + who to reach out toResources:Meaghan's Instagram: @meaghan_wesselMeaghan's Website: meaghanwessel.comIf you want to learn more about eating disorders or need to seek help for yourself or others:https://nedic.cahttps://www.nationaleatingdisorders.orgFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Do you have regrets in your athletic career? Do you wish you would have gone a different path or done something different. Same! This week's episode is all about the things I wish I knew when I was a younger athlete! I talk about the journey I've had as an athlete and how these lessons have shaped me into the person I am today! As mentioned in the episode, I've started a career as a mindset coach and I would love to help you overcome the mental barriers you have in your sport! I know how hard it is to admit that you need help and it's the first step to becoming successful! Lean into it and see what the possibilities are for you! Send me a message on Instagram and let's turn your career around!Resources:Podcast Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Canadian Ski Cross athlete Courtney Hoffos comes on the podcast to talk about her journey of making the switch to Ski Cross from Alpine Skiing and all of the injuries and experiences she learned along the way! In her young career, she has been on the World Cup podium multiple times and won the Freestyle Women's Rookie of the Year award in 2020! Despite the trouble she's had with her body, she comes back stronger every time and that's what makes her the successful athlete she is today!In this episode we talk about:The variety of injuries she's hadStaying motivated during recoveryManaging expectations and pressureThe impact her team has had on her performanceResources:Courtney's Instagram: @courtneyhoffos_Follow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Today's guest is Kelsey Dickinson who is a professional biathlon athlete! She is a former collegiate athlete for the College of St. Scholastica in both Nordic skiing and cross country running! Kelsey has also competed on the world stage at World Juniors in 2014 and currently competes on the IBU (International Biathlon Union) circuit! Through all of her obstacles and shortcomings, her love for the sport is what drives her to keep competing and chasing her Olympic dreams!On the podcast we talk about:Calming your mind in high-pressure momentsThe importance of support systemsMentally dealing with injuriesCreating the right goals for success and happinessResources:Kelsey's Instagram: @delseykickinsonFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Today's episode is with Liza Baykova, a former Russian swimming who travelled across the world to compete in the NCAA for the University of New Hampshire. During her time, she has broken multiple university and American East records in freestyle and relay events!  We talk about:The culture shock she experienced in the first few months in the USAdjustments she made in her mindset at practicesDealing with internal pressures to performOvercoming doubts in herself to keep goingResources:Liza's Instagram: @_baykovaFollow the Podcast on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Today's episode is with Stefanie Fleckenstein who is on the Canadian Alpine Ski Team's NextGen program and is a member of the University of Colorado ski team! She is a 3-Time All-American and has competed on the world stage such as at World Juniors and World Cup downhill races in 2017. Stef discusses her;Realization of how much injuries take a toll on your mental wellbeing,How to take recovery days one step at a time,Managing expectations coming back from injury,Coping with anxiety in a season and future of unknowns.Resources:Stef's Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ4QP4kgiHTUlrKEsISV8lAStef's Instagram: @stef_fleckFollow the Podcast Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

On today's episode, Emma sits down with Bobbie Burgess, former collegiate cross country and track runner who is in a constant battle with an eating disorder that affected her senior season at Georgetown. Bobbie goes into detail about her thoughts and feelings in the years before seeking treatment; her comparison to teammates and competitors and their eating habits; and fixing her relationship with food and how she found the love of running again.If you want to learn more about eating disorders or need to seek help for yourself or others:https://nedic.cahttps://www.nationaleatingdisorders.orgThe Emily Program: https://www.emilyprogram.comFollow on Instagram:  @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Former World Cup and Olympic Downhill Skier Larisa Yurkiw sits down with Emma to talk about her unique journey to success. Throughout her career, she has racked up 4 World Cup podiums and finished 3rd overall in the WC downhill standings in 2016! While there were setbacks along the way such as a serious knee injury leading her to race independently, her drive and will to get back up when knocked down makes her the successful and inspiring person she is today! Our conversation sparks interest in how important mindset is in sport, that confidence isn't everything and to be brave when overcoming your setbacks!Follow on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcastGirls Coding Link: https://www.ted.com/talks/reshma_saujani_teach_girls_bravery_not_perfection

America East Diver of the Year Allison Stefanelli joins Emma to talk about her diving career that has been anything but easy. Through all the success she's had has come great obstacles such as pressures no herself and team and having a chronic back injury affecting multiple seasons. Allison really opens up about her mental health during those tough moments and the things that contributed to her winning mindset! Follow along on Instagram: @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast

Today's guest is Francesca English, who currently competes on the NCAA circuit as an alpine ski racer. She is a 3-Time All-American and daughter of former World Cup ski racer Tamara McKinney. Francesca and Emma talk about the stigma around depression especially in athletes, and dealing with season-ending injuries! Follow on Instagram:  @barrierstobreakthroughspodcast 

Welcome to the Barriers to Breakthroughs podcast with Emma Woodhouse, a 2-Time All-American and 2020 Female Athlete of the Year at UNH. I'm so excited to have the opportunity to talk with some amazing female athletes who have been through adversity in their sport to reach success. Being an athlete is tough on you both mentally and physically. You eventually reach a point in your career where nothing is going right and you don't feel like yourself. Through my journey as an alpine ski racer, I know what it's like to feel hopeless, not knowing why you're not performing the way you want, and to feel alone, thinking that no one could relate to what you're going through. I want to help you feel heard and motivate you through these conversations to keep going after your goals and dreams.Connect with me and other female athletes on Instagram:@barrierstobreakthroughspodcast