Best Collegiate Empowerment Podcasts (2024)

1
Parenting Through Mental Blocks with Sport Mom & Coach Holly Johnson 41:43

1h ago41:43

41:43

In the latest episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Holly Johnson, a dedicated sport mom, coach, and member of our PerformHappy community. Holly shares her powerful journey of navigating mental blocks with her daughter, a tumbler and dancer. As a former athlete herself, Holly has experienced the highs and lows tha…

1
How to Have a Long, Successful Gymnastics Career with Elite Gymnast Rosanna Ojala 41:40

28m ago41:40

41:40

Today’s podcast is a must-listen for anyone who thinks that gymnasts have to peak at age 16. My guest, Rosanna Ojala, is here to prove that wrong. Rosanna’s story is all about how you can have a long, happy, and healthy gymnastics career that extends well into your 20s and 30s. She’s living proof that if we change the culture around gymnastics, we …

1
Navigating Life's Curveballs with NCAA Gymnast and Rocket Scientist Sam Cerio 35:21

18d ago35:21

35:21

On today’s episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I have the privilege of talking with Sam Cerio, a former Auburn gymnast who’s not only a top-tier athlete but also a rocket scientist. Sam shares her inspiring story, including how she navigated a devastating, career-ending injury on the world stage and the journey that led her to walk down the aisle …

1
Learning how to "Never Give Up" with NCAA D1 Gymnast Sage Thompson 48:39

7h ago48:39

48:39

On today's episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I sit down with NCAA gymnastics star Sage Thompson from Oregon State. Sage's story is one of resilience and determination, embodying the "never give up" mindset that so many young athletes strive for. Throughout her career, Sage has faced significant challenges, but she's pushed through with the suppo…

1
Episode 42 Canyon Steverson 37:43

26d ago37:43

37:43

By Russell Davis

1
Unlocking Culinary Secrets: A Journey with David Page - S4E14 34:52

29d ago34:52

34:52

What if you could uncover the secrets behind the careers of top culinary professionals? Join me, Coach Mikki, as I sit down with the remarkable David Page, president and executive producer of Page Productions, to discuss his journey from radio to television and his latest venture into podcasting with "Culinary Characters Unlocked." Discover David's…

1
What it's Like to Be an Olympian with Gymnast Daniel Purvis 41:57

22d ago41:57

41:57

I’m thrilled to announce today’s special PerformHappy podcast episode, featuring none other than the incredible Daniel Purvis! If you’re a gymnastics fan, you’re in for a treat because it’s Olympics week, and we’re diving deep into the journey of this Scottish former international elite gymnast, Olympian, and three-time British all-around champion.…

1
Episode 41 Paul Richardson 38:06

1M ago38:06

38:06

By Russell Davis

1
Gymnastics in the Social Media Era with Whitney Bjerken 42:42

24d ago42:42

42:42

In the latest episode of the PerformHappy podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Whitney Bjerken, a name many of you might recognize from her impressive gymnastics journey shared on YouTube. Whitney's channel, boasting over 1.5 million subscribers, has been a window into her life as a level 10 gymnast, offering a unique perspective on the int…

1
Episode 40: Skylar Debnam 36:55

1M ago36:55

36:55

By Russell Davis

1
The Evolution of Gymnastics with Olympian Aagje Vanwalleghem 40:20

2M ago40:20

40:20

On today's PerformHappy podcast episode, I'm thrilled to have Olympian Aagje Vanwalleghem join us. Not only is she an amazing athlete, but she's also a dedicated gymnastics mom and a passionate advocate for positive change in the sport of gymnastics. Our conversation left me feeling hopeful about the future of gymnastics, and I'm excited to share h…

1
Sports for Kids with Disabilities: Episode 39 Karl Bender 48:49

2M ago48:49

48:49

This week we've got Karl Bender, cofounder of Mikey's League, an inclusive sports organization that challenges the limits placed on children with disabilities. Russ and Karl talk about the impact they've had on the world of sports, starting with its youngest players. The Route with Russell podcast is hosted by Super Bowl champion and retired NFL pl…

1
Uncovering Secrets: From Attics to Empowerment with Nancy Mueller - S4E13 39:21

2M ago39:21

39:21

What if uncovering hidden family secrets could transform your life? Join us as Nancy Mueller returns to the show to share the captivating journey behind her latest book, "Secrets in the Attic." Inspired by the discovery of her mother's letters in an Ohio attic, Nancy explores the attic as a symbol for the mind, where memories and secrets are stored…

1
Overcoming Perfectionism with Dr. Ellen Reed 49:17

28d ago49:17

49:17

On today's podcast, I'm thrilled to interview Dr. Ellen Reed, a former professional dancer, performance coach, and fellow recovering perfectionist. If you're struggling with perfectionism, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Reed shares practical mental strategies to help you shift from perfectionism to optimism, making you happier and more successf…

1
Using Mental Skills to #PerformHappy in Elite and Collegiate Gymnastics with Ana Padarariu 49:28

2M ago49:28

49:28

In the latest episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing UCLA and Canadian Elite Gymnast Ana Padarariu the 2018 World Championships silver medalist on balance beam. Ana has faced her fair share of injuries, and obstacles that have interrupted her Olympic dream. However, her story is incredibly inspiring. Despite the set…

1
What Really Matters in Sport with Performance Coach Brandi Smith 38:47

2M ago38:47

38:47

On today's episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, I have the pleasure of interviewing Brandi Smith, the founder of Perfect 10.0 Physical Therapy and Performance Training. Perfect 10.0 is an all-inclusive program dedicated to injury care and sport-specific strength, conditioning, and performance. It’s designed to not only return athletes to their spor…

1
The NFL Today Versus 25 Years Ago 29:06

2M ago29:06

29:06

This week we are joined by former Arizona Cardinal Wendell Bryant to chop it up about the difference between players of the NFL today and those of the past, the change in how players are scouted, and how they would stack up against each other in today’s NFL The Route with Russell podcast is hosted by Super Bowl champion and retired NFL player Russe…

1
Australian Elite Gymnast Emma Nedov on her Comeback and the Road to Paris 46:44

2M ago46:44

46:44

I'm excited to share today's PerformHappy podcast episode with you. This week, I had the pleasure of interviewing the incredible Australian elite gymnast, Emma Nedov. Emma initially retired from gymnastics in 2020, transitioning into life after the sport. However, less than a year ago, she decided to make a comeback and set her sights on competing …

1
The Good and Bad of Chasing Perfection 43:50

2M ago43:50

43:50

This week we discuss what the pursuit of perfection means and what ultimately can be gained and lost along the way. With athletes, there are benefits in pushing yourself to be at the top, but what are the negative impacts in the hunt to be the best? Russell and Anwar shine some light on some of the things people lose in the journey. Some of them mi…

1
Student/Athlete Journey: Insights from Willette White on Transitioning to Collegiate Sport - S4E12s 34:54

3M ago34:54

34:54

What if you could navigate the complex world of collegiate sports with the guidance of a seasoned expert? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Willette White, a trailblazer in women's basketball with over 36 years of expertise. Coach White takes us through her transformative journey from being a college athlete to becoming a revered coach,…

1
Winning with Joy with Champion Culture Coach Becky Beaulieu 44:05

2M ago44:05

44:05

Join us as we chat with Becky Beaulieu, Champion Culture Coach, former licensed psychologist, and NCAA head coach. Becky shares her unique insights on raising team standards without increasing pressure, fostering a joyful and successful team environment. With a wealth of experience coaching top teams and mentoring athletes, Becky’s practical tips a…

1
The Legacy of Arizona Cardinal Kwamie Lassiter: A Talk with Ericka Lassiter 42:22

3M ago42:22

42:22

This week we talk about turning the loss of a parent into inspiration with Ericka Lassiter, wife of former Arizona Cardinal Kwamie Lassiter. Kwamie Lassiter passed away in 2019. Three of Kwamie and Ericka’s sons, Kwamie II, Darius and Kwinton, have played college football or in the NFL. Kwamie II plays for the Cincinnati Bengals, having played coll…

1
Finding Gratitude after Loss with Michigan State Gymnast Sage Kellerman 44:23

2M ago44:23

44:23

Today on PerformHappy, join me in an uplifting conversation with Sage Kellerman, a remarkable gymnast from Michigan State University. Beyond her perfect 10 on vault, Sage shares her journey of resilience and gratitude in the face of adversity, including the loss of her father. From navigating grief to battling impostor syndrome, Sage's story is one…

1
My Son Is In EA College Football 25! 34:01

3M ago34:01

34:01

This week we talk about the upcoming release of EA College Football 25 and how Deuce Davis is in the game. How has the NIL impacted players’ inclusion and how much. did they get for being in the game? What does the future hold year over year now that an NCAA football game is back in production? We get into that and much more! The Route with Russell…

1
Preventing Bullying in Youth Sports with Jaime Hamilton 41:19

2M ago41:19

41:19

On today’s PerformHappy Podcast episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Professor Jaime Hamilton, a communication expert and fierce advocate for bullying awareness. Jaime founded The Comm Experts to bridge the gap between higher education and real-world contexts, focusing on bullying prevention and awareness. With over 20 years of teaching experience, she…

1
Staying in Love with your Sport (Even through Recruiting) with D1 Collegiate Gymnast Kaitlyn Donovan 43:08

3M ago43:08

43:08

Today's podcast features Kaitlyn Donovan, captain of the Illinois State gymnastics team. Kaitlyn shares her journey through injuries, the rigorous recruiting process, and how she keeps her passion for gymnastics alive. In this episode, Kaitlyn offers invaluable tips on recruiting and mental skills. Her insights, drawn from over 20 years of experien…

1
Bill Gusmano on How Coaches Need To Do Better 28:08

3M ago28:08

28:08

This week we’re joined by former NCAA free safety turned CEO Bill Gusmano to reflect on his years on the football field. Injuries can change the entire trajectory of an athlete’s career. Bill and Russell talk about young players’ demand for physical and emotional support when facing big injuries and how reality sinks in fast. Has the culture of sup…

1
Using the Brain-Body Connection to Optimize Performance with Yuka Sugiura 44:56

4M ago44:56

44:56

Welcome to the latest episode of PerformHappy! Today, we're thrilled to bring you an enlightening conversation with neural performance coach Yuka Sugiura. Join us as we explore how Yuka's expertise can revolutionize your approach to performance. In this episode, Yuka shares her insights on leveraging the brain-body connection to optimize performanc…

1
Podcast Update 13:38

3M ago13:38

13:38

In this episode, Funaki Asisi provides updates on the combine and film availability. He also announces a break from the podcast for the summer due to personal commitments. Funaki then shares advice on what athletes should focus on during the summer, including improving weaknesses, staying positive, and showing gratitude. He emphasizes the importanc…

1
From Redshirting To Starting: Is There A Right Time? 32:59

4M ago32:59

32:59

This week we chat about Deuce Davis’s decision to potentially start for the Washington Huskies and put his redshirting years behind him When is the right time to go for it? As a player, should you make the most of your practice squad years or risk losing a year to get on the starting lineup? Let’s get into it! The Route with Russell podcast is host…

1
Top Performers of The Recruit Grind Combine 26:39

3M ago26:39

26:39

The host discusses the results and highlights of the Recruit Grind combine event. He expresses gratitude to the participants, volunteers, and coaches who made the event possible. The host also mentions areas for improvement and invites feedback from attendees. The top performers in each recruiting class for various combine drills are announced. Tak…

1
Mental Blocks: What Parents and Coaches Need To Know with Dr Dave Tilley 46:32

3M ago46:32

46:32

In this week's episode of the PerformHappy podcast, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with one of my favorite gymnastics experts, Dr Dave Tilley from Shift Movement Science. Our discussion centered around a topic close to the hearts of many parents and coaches: mental blocks in young athletes. We delved into the nuances of supporting you…

1
Hockey Is A Rich Kid’s Sport 46:28

4M ago46:28

46:28

This week we talk to hockey parent Colin Bottril to talk about the unexpected expenses of playing hockey and reveal his son’s journey leaving home at the young age of 14 to play hockey full time. The Route with Russell podcast is hosted by Super Bowl champion and retired NFL player Russell Davis Sr. This is a space where the community can come toge…

1
Coaching From Your Heart with Olympic Coach Baz Collie 43:04

4M ago43:04

43:04

In the newest episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, we sat down with Baz Collie, the senior coach of the British men's gymnastics national team, to uncover his unique coaching approach. Collie's philosophy revolves around building relationships and fostering belief in athletes at all levels. He stresses the importance of adapting to individual needs…

1
The Recruit Grind Combine: Reviewing Your Questions From Instagram Live & More 25:11

4M ago25:11

25:11

In this episode of "The Recruit Grind," host Funaki Asisi discusses the upcoming free combine event aimed at aiding athletes in their recruitment journey. Funaki shares details about the event's structure, the reasons for making it free, and tips on what participants should bring. The discussion includes the importance of support systems, personal …

1
My Mom Called The Chicago Bears 42:52

4M ago42:52

42:52

This week we break down helicopter parenting and it’s impact on children and young athletes. Russ shares his own experience growing up under the ever-watching eyes of his overprotective mom and how her helicopter parenting nearly cost him his starting job on the Chicago Bears. The Route with Russell podcast is hosted by Super Bowl champion and reti…

1
Setting Kids Up for Collegiate Success with Gymnastics Coach Karen Medellin 47:33

4M ago47:33

47:33

This week on the PerformHappy Podcast we chat with Karen Medellin, former elite gymnast and current coach and owner of 360 Elite Gymnastics. about setting kids up for collegiate success while ensuring their happiness and well-being. Karen shares insights from her journey and coaching philosophy, offering unique insights into managing competitive pr…

1
Tana Vea: Making Recruits Feel Valued and Appreciated 1:05:05

4M ago1:05:05

1:05:05

In this conversation, Funaki Asisi and Tana Vea discuss various topics related to football recruiting. They talk about the unique aspect of players who play both offense and defense, the challenges of organizing events in bad weather, and Tana's background in coaching and recruiting. Tana shares his insights on specific players and their potential,…

1
How Nicole Powell Keeps Up a Family of Sports Stars 40:06

4M ago40:06

40:06

This week we talk with Nicole Powell on being married to MLB pitcher. Her husband Jeremy Powell spent 3 years playing for the major leagues before taking the family to Japan to play for an even more passionate baseball fanbase. While she thought the family legacy was on the pitching mound, she was shocked to learn her sons were more interested in t…

1
Preventing Injuries and Building Strength in Young Gymnasts with Dr. Jenny Borda PT, DPT 46:51

4M ago46:51

46:51

In today’s episode of the PerformHappy Podcast, we explore the essentials of injury prevention and strength building in young gymnasts with Dr. Jenny Borda, PT, DPT. She offers expert insights on strength training, flexibility, and technique to ensure athlete longevity. We also cover the importance of mental resilience, stress management, and open …

1
The Journey to the Transfer Portal With Ryder MacGillivray 27:43

4M ago27:43

27:43

Summary Ryder MacGillivray, a former football player at Utah State University, shares his journey and decision to enter the transfer portal. He talks about his experiences on the team, including being awarded a scholarship and battling for a starting position. Ryder discusses the tough conversations he had with coaches and the emotional process of …

1
These New Rules Will Be The Death of the NFL 34:27

5M ago34:27

34:27

This week Russell Davis and Anwar Newton talk about the new NFL rule changes like the hip drop tackle ban and the new kickoff rule. Is the game being changed for the better or worse? Does the NFL show the same amount of care for defensive players that they show for offensive players? The Route with Russell podcast is hosted by Super Bowl champion a…

1
The Secret to Consistency Under Pressure with OU Gymnastics Senior Audrey Davis 44:53

4M ago44:53

44:53

I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Audrey Davis, a standout senior from the championship-winning Oklahoma University gymnastics team. Discover how Audrey maintains peak performance under intense pressure and learn the secrets behind her consistency and joy in the sport. With two NCAA national titles under her belt and a third in sigh…

1
From Small Town to Big League: How Michael Bankston Made it to the NFL 32:37

5M ago32:37

32:37

This week we’re joined by Arizona Cardinal alumnus Michael Bankston to talk about his career journey from a small town in Texas to the big league. Michael played 9 seasons in the NFL starting as a defensive tackle with the Cardinals and finishing his career with the Cincinnati Bengals (Who Dey!) He and Russ have a great talk about growing up with t…

1
When Opportunity Knocks: Learning and Growing from the Sideline 25:18

4M ago25:18

25:18

Summary In this episode, Naki discusses the importance of sideline etiquette for players who are not on the field. He emphasizes the impact of body language, understanding momentum, gaining an edge, servant leadership, being engaged in the game, and being ready for opportunities. Naki shares personal experiences and provides practical advice for pl…

1
Gymnastics in a New Era with Coach Jessie McDonough 54:13

4M ago54:13

54:13

Today's episode is all about embracing change in the world of gymnastics, and I'm thrilled to introduce our guest, Jessica McDonough, better known as Coach Jessie from Olympus Gymnastic Club. A former Utah NCAA gymnast, Coach Jessie brings a fresh perspective to the sport. At Olympus, she's been instrumental in reshaping the gym culture, moving awa…

1
Growing Up With a Military Mom 41:47

5M ago41:47

41:47

This week Russell talks about his mother and her impact on how he is the father that he is today. Russ looks back at his upbringing under a strict mom, navigating social media with his football star son, Deuce Davis (Washington Huskies), and remembers a house party that nearly got him in the worst trouble of his life! The Route with Russell podcast…

1
Recruit Grind Combine FAQ's 27:41

5M ago27:41

27:41

Summary In this conversation, Naki addresses frequently asked questions about a combine event. He discusses the importance of underclassmen attending the combine to showcase their potential and progression. He emphasizes that every position, including linemen, is important and should participate in the combine. Naki also explains that while combine…

1
Building Unshakeable Self-Belief with Elite Cheerleader Hailey D’Lynn Smith 45:08

5M ago45:08

45:08

In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of Hailey D’Lynn Smith, who went from an energetic gymnastics beginner to a celebrated cheerleader, clinching the title of 2021 Texas Cheerleader of the Year. Starting gymnastics at two, Hailey transitioned to cheerleading despite injuries and no prior experience in the sport, showcasing her shee…

1
Inside the Huddle with Dominic Hanger: A Redshirt Freshman's Journey 27:03

5M ago27:03

27:03

This week we chat with Arizona Wildcat linebacker Dominic Hanger. With 156 total tackles, 5.0 sacks, and numerous hurries during his high school career, Dominic brings a wealth of talent to the Wildcats team We talk about the pressures of college, how to navigate being a redshirt freshman, and his goals to make an impact in life and on the field Th…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Collegiate Empowerment Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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