Guest: Hannah, Licensed Therapist specializing in Eating Disorders (ED) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Episode Summary:In this episode, we chat with Hannah, a licensed therapist with a focus on Eating Disorders and OCD. Hannah shares insights into the high comorbidity rate of these issues, especially among women who pursue perfectionism. She opens up about her personal journey in sports, including her early experiences her family, mother playing volleyball and father, basketball, and how swimming became her passion. Key Highlights:Athletic Foundations: Hannah’s love for sports began in a family that bonded through basketball and volleyball. However, it was joining the swim team that helped her discover her true self. Journey Through Nutrition: After studying nutrition at Penn State, Hannah faced challenges that led her to lose her sense of identity, but she found her path again in graduate school at Temple University. Stride Counseling: Hannah founded Stride Counseling, where she loves supporting athletes on their journey to recovery and returning to their sport. Eating Disorders in Athletics: Hannah emphasizes that no sport is immune to eating disorders. She discusses the common tension athletes feel around food and the crucial role of fuel in performance. Understanding Eating Disorders: Hannah explains the genetic, social, and biological factors that contribute to eating disorders and stresses the importance of nurturing a neutral relationship with food. Tips for Athletes and Coaches: Hannah provides valuable advice for athletes, coaches, and caregivers on how to navigate and address eating disorders effectively. Key Takeaways:Emphasizing the need to label food neutrally—understanding that food is not inherently "good" or "bad." Recognizing the significant influence of societal pressure and personal relationships on a person’s relationship with food. Importance of creating a supportive and understanding environment for athletes facing eating disorders. Join us for this insightful conversation with Hannah, as she sheds light on the complexities of eating disorders in sports and shares her passion for helping athletes thrive. Listen now and empower yourself with the knowledge to support athletes!

Guest: Amy Muller, Executive Director of the Women's Sports & Health Expo (WSHE) Episode Summary:In this episode, we sit down with Amy Muller, the inspiring Executive Director of the Women's Sports & Health Expo, to discuss her journey in sports and her mission to celebrate, educate, and motivate women and girls. Amy shares her lifelong passion for athletics and how it has shaped her vision for WSHE, even as she navigated personal challenges with mental health during her formative years in high school. Key Highlights:Athletic Beginnings: Amy reflects on her active childhood and the sense of freedom she found on the field. Mental Health Journey: Despite a positive relationship with sports, Amy experienced clinical depression in high school, shedding light on the stigma surrounding mental health during that time. College Reset: Transitioning to college athletics provided Amy with a fresh perspective, allowing her to appreciate her body and enjoy the competition. Organic Vulnerability: Together with her business partner, Amy emphasizes the importance of open and honest conversations, advocating for a foundation built on "Organic Vulnerability." WSHE Mission: With the Women's Sports & Health Expo now in its second year, Amy explains how the event promotes learning, movement, and connection for women, girls, and their supporters. Body Image Discussion: Kaitlyn, Amy, and I delve into the challenges posed by social media concerning self-esteem and body image, and how they affect young athletes. A little about the EXPO:The Women's Sports & Health Expo is dedicated to creating a hands-on experience that inspires participants of all ages. From interactive activities to valuable resources, the event aims to bring families and communities together in support of women and girls in sports. Join us for this enlightening conversation with Amy Muller as we explore how sports can serve as a vital tool for empowerment and healing. Don't miss out on this celebration of strength and community!

The Joy of the Game: How Discipline and Love for Sport Shape Us, with Mary Minogue, Flag Football, Wrestling, and Lacrosse. "If you want to be a disciplined person on the field, you have to be a disciplined person with class, family, and friends." In this inspiring episode, we talk with Mary, a high-performing multi-sport high school athlete whose energy, brightness, and joy fill every room she enters. Mary's journey began as a young child in Judo and martial arts, where she learned early on the importance of self-worth and showing up as herself—never shrinking, always embracing her true identity. From being the only girl in her early martial arts classes to discovering her love for lacrosse in middle school, Mary’s story is one of resilience, hard work, and genuine passion for sport. Her experiences across Judo, wrestling, cross country, flag football, and lacrosse have shaped her into an athlete who values discipline, the journey, and making meaningful memories along the way. Mary also shares her perspective on the importance of female coaches in sports, highlighting how their communication style can foster better connection and understanding. She believes that discipline, teamwork, and a competitive drive are foundational to finding joy in sport—and that loving every step of the process means it never feels like a sacrifice. We dive into the significance of habits, values, and understanding your "why" to stay motivated. Mary emphasizes the importance of trying new things, meeting new people, and consistently stepping outside your comfort zone. She advocates for more resources dedicated to mental health and athlete support, recognizing her privilege to access sports therapists. Join us for an uplifting conversation about perseverance, self-growth, and the power of embracing all aspects of your journey as an athlete and individual.

Maddy Zarchin, Sports Performance Coach In this empowering episode, we welcome Maddy Zarchin, a former Division 1 swimmer turned Sports Performance Coach dedicated to helping girls maximize their athletic potential and build confidence in the gym—one session at a time. Maddy shares her journey of not understanding the vital connection between strength training and athletic performance during her high school years, which she believes hindered her success in the pool. Now, she focuses on educating girls about the unique aspects of the female body— including hormonal and physiological differences—and why strength training is essential for maximizing potential. She discusses key factors affecting female athletes, such as the tendency to be quad-dominant, increased risk of ACL tears, and the importance of building strength in the posterior chain to combat these issues. Maddy highlights the stigma around girls working out in the gym, including the lack of female trainers and strength coaches, and how increasing female representation in these roles is crucial for progress. Maddy emphasizes a holistic approach to sports performance—incorporating fueling, mental health, and strength training-to keep girls in sport long-term. She believes that more science specific to females and more female trainers will make a significant impact on athletic development and confidence. Maddy’s 4 At-Home Exercises Anyone Can Do: 1) Single Leg RDL (Roman Deadlift)2) Split Squat3) Dead Bug4)Eccentric Push-Ups All these exercises, along with additional movements, are available on the PEAC-Train Like A Girl APP to help girls stay active and empowered at home. Quotes from Maddy:   “I can look at the science in any textbook or research journal and 90% of the research subjects are male.” “Specialize when you are older—adolescents should play a variety of sports.” “You are missing a big part of training if you are not fueling properly.” “Sports performance is a holistic approach—recognizing the different aspects of the athlete instead of just output.” Tune in to learn how science, representation, and a holistic approach can revolutionize the way girls train and thrive in sports! IG: https://www.instagram.com/maddyzarchin/   https://www.instagram.com/peac_train_like_girl/ PEAC-Train Like A Girl APP: https://peac.gcph.tv/?fbclid=IwY2xjawNLP_ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExOUtqV1QyVjlPRkhiVkF5AR4Mq_QqfIhCuuvzTF9YG_xzR386aKDh2Dxz-qL3dKmLTFrs0RNW5WOI2Z0cLw_aem_RY-guHHUpCgvzT1131lkAg  

In this inspiring episode, we chat with Liv Asay, a dedicated college swimmer at the University of Iowa. Liv’s journey in sport was inspired by her mom, who played softball in high school and college. She realized early on that her true passion was in the pool, starting her swim career at Oak Park’s Team Millennium— her first experience was an exciting water park tryout, and from that moment, she knew the pool was her happy place.Liv later moved to Downers Grove’s Express Swim Team, where she took her training more seriously. Her high school coach, Jennifer Heyer, played a pivotal role in her decision to pursue a college swimming career. Jennifer’s dedication to helping athletes see their potential and understand that their WHY fuels performance deeply resonated with Liv.A strong advocate for more female coaches in high school and college sports, Liv believes women coaches have a unique ability to understand the physiological and hormonal differences that impact training and mental health in girl athletes. She hopes to coach after graduating in May from the University of Iowa and inspire more girls to stay in sport. For Liv, sport is about leadership, self-discovery, and teamwork. Her commitment is fueled by the belief that “anyone can swim, anyone can do it, as long as they put in the work.” Liv shares her powerful insights:“It’s okay for your body to be uncomfortable, but find the WHO to calm your brain down.” “Swimming is my calm, my happy place, my peace.” “When my body and brain are tired, I tell myself to relax.” “My teammates were able to reignite my spark when I was coming back from injury.”   Tune in to hear Liv’s inspiring story and her passion for empowering the next generation of female athletes!

BE BRAVECara Stawicki – World Champion Athlete, High-Performance Coach, & Owner of Be Brave In this episode, we sit down with Cara Stawicki, a remarkable world champion athlete, high-performance and leadership coach, and passionate founder of Be Brave. From her beginnings in the pool, growing up in an active family, Cara's love for sport and dedication has taken her to the top as a World Champion Rower. Cara shares her inspiring journey of overcoming confidence and belonging challenges that many athletes face. Despite knowing she "had what it takes," she often fell short—until she started working with her own high-performance coach. That transformative experience helped her sharpen focus, build trust in herself, and let her skills shine. As a coach, Cara emphasizes that the chief visionary in any athlete's journey is themselves. She encourages athletes to get in touch with their inner voice and to ask a fundamental question: "What is your vision of success?" Understanding personal and team values is critical—these core values serve as the foundation, grounding athletes and serving as their North Star. Key Takeaways: Do a values assessment and take it seriously—spend quality time working through this process. Get clear and intentional about your support team—ideally 3 to 4 people who genuinely have your back. Join us as Cara shares her insights on unlocking your potential, leading with purpose, and creating a pathway to success both on and off the field. https://carastawicki.com/https://www.instagram.com/carastawicki/

Podcast Episode: Unlocking Creativity and Mental Wellness with Danielle Beardsley In this inspiring episode, Danielle Beardsley, LCPC, CADC, ATR, shares her journey as a Clinical Art Therapist, Addictions Counselor, Sports Performance Coach, and founder of the Center for Creative Growth Inc. Danielle discusses the importance of empowerment, reminding clients they are in control of their lives, and embracing a problem-solving approach through trial and error—highlighting that learning from setbacks is okay. A deeply compassionate advocate, Danielle emphasizes how people need people and encourages open, supportive conversations around mental health and personal growth. She reflects on her formative experiences at Barrington High School, where she was mentored by two inspiring female coaches who encouraged her to dig deeper into her relationships with her thoughts and seek outside guidance from clinicians who specialize in athletic mental health. Danielle shares her college journey, where her relationship with a male coach highlighted the differences in how female athletes process anxiety and feelings of being different. This experience fueled her passion for exploring mental health, the mind-body connection, and the transformative power of outdoor activity for mental well-being. Key topics discussed include: The distinction between good pressure and unhealthy stressThe mind-body connection and breath as a self-regulation toolUnderstanding and finding your optimal zone of performanceWhy feelings are not facts The benefits of seeking professional support for athletes to enhance long-term mental health and performance Tune in to learn how embracing vulnerability, outside guidance, and self-awareness can lead to a more balanced, empowered, and high-performing life. https://www.creativegrowthcenter.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-beardsley-lcpc-cadc-atr-cmpc-4b863743/ https://www.instagram.com/centerforcreativegrowth/

Episode Summary:In this inspiring episode, mother-daughter runners Mary and Mia Sirois share their running journeys, insights, and the valuable lessons they've learned along the way. From Mia’s impressive performances at the IHSA Class 3A state meet and Nike Cross Nationals to Mary’s passion for the team aspect of cross country, this episode is filled with motivation, practical tips, and heartfelt stories. Discover how Mia balances training, recovery, and avoiding FOMO, while Mary emphasizes the importance of support and expert guidance. Plus, enjoy some fun moments sharing favorite foods, team pride, and more!Key Highlights:  Mia’s Achievements: IHSA Class 3A state meet with a season-best of 15:53.4 at three miles, leading the Broncos to the team title, and earning First Team All-America honors at Nike Cross Nationals in 17:16.0. Mary’s Running Journey: Started running in high school because cross country was perfect for the fall, especially since soccer is a spring sport in Illinois. She loved the team aspect and saw her high school team improve over her four years. Mia’s Running Origin: Fell in love with running as her mom encouraged her from a young age, starting with stroller runs. Tried cheerleading but ultimately found her passion in running. Training and Recovery: Emphasized the importance of fueling properly ("you can't out-train under-fueling"), prioritizing sleep (Mia gets about 9 hours each night), hydration, foam rolling, and mobility. Team and Balance: Mia appreciates being part of a team for accountability and understanding natural progression in training. Injury and FOMO: Mia stepped away from Strava to avoid pressure and FOMO, focusing on her own recovery and progress. Support System: Mary supports Mia by trusting her coaches, PTs, and nutritionists, letting them guide her. Wellness & Supplements: N-2 wellness brand aiding Mia's recovery and bone health, and hydration. I personally love the taste, convenience, and flavors. Fun & Personal Touches: Mary and I talk  Purdue basketball ("Boiler Up!"), Mia’s favorite post-race FUEL Portillo's Cake Shake   https://www.instagram.com/m.v.sirois/https://www.instagram.com/n_2water/ https://www.instagram.com/miasirois_runz/ Mile Split Heartland: https://www.instagram.com/stories/milesplitheartland/ Mia’s Athletic Brand: https://www.instagram.com/newbalancerunning/ Portillos: https://www.instagram.com/portilloshotdogs/

PEAC-Train Like a Girl Podcast Episode: Meet Sarah Hopkins — The Coach Making Waves at Minnesota! If you love running, sports, or just need a dose of girl power, you’ll want to listen to this episode. Meet Sarah Hopkins — the head coach of the Minnesota Gophers women’s cross country team and a total boss in the coaching world. Sarah’s gone from being a student-athlete to winning the USTFCCCA Midwest Regional Coach of the Year three times — and she’s only just getting started. In this chat, Sarah opens up about what it really takes to lead, succeed, and lift up other women in sports. She shares her secret sauce for staying balanced, handling info overload, and keeping her team motivated and confident. Plus, she talks about how rest and mental health are game changers, not signs of weakness. If you’re dreaming of crushing your goals or want to know what it’s like to be a leader in women’s sports, this episode is jam-packed with tips and real talk from a coaching legend. Tune in — this one’s for every girl who’s got fire in her heart and wants to make her mark! Follow Sarah and the Gophers: https://www.instagram.com/mnxccoachhop/ https://www.instagram.com/gophercctf/ https://www.instagram.com/umntwincities/ https://gophersports.com/404?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadCSvwkAwFB58WxvhcHGN5ym7stubyhXZqg4tyk40IDCAbBtDDvr_QGj3WAPg_aem_g5POQEkrGdPdrZ510Raglg    

This week’s episode is a special conversation with the host of PEAC–Train like a Girl, Annemarie Sampson. AnneMarie, a seasoned coach with vast experience in sports, fitness, health, and wellness shares her journey through sport and and everything wellness.  Anne-Marie shares her story of navigating diet culture, discovering her passion for running, and her diverse certifications in exercise and wellness, including yoga, nutrition, and digital wellness. This episode exemplifies how these elements play a crucial role in empowering female athletes and fostering a supportive environment in sports. Tune in for an engaging, heartfelt discussion exploring the evolution of women's sports, the importance of female coaches, and Anne-Marie's memorable coaching experiences. Discover practical advice on shutting out distractions to focus and excel in athletics, and stay updated on the upcoming launch of the PEAC app, aimed at enhancing women's wellness through scientifically-backed content. Where to find us: https://www.instagram.com/really_rad_coaching/ https://www.instagram.com/sustainablelife.live/ https://sustainablelifelive.com/   #TrainLikeAGirl #GirlPower #running #YouthSports #WomenInSports #MentalPerformance #FutureOfSports

Meet Reagen Radke, an incredible athlete and coach whose journey through collegiate, professional, and international softball offers valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and parents alike. In this engaging episode, we discuss Reagen’s experiences playing at the NCAA levels—NAIA, D1, D2, and D3—and her time playing overseas for MSG Phoenix and with the Belgian National Team.  Reagen shares her story of transferring from Columbia College to Reinhardt University, guided by her college coach, and how those experiences shaped her approach to coaching and performance. We also talk about her academic journey, earning her master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University while playing her fifth year of college softball, and what it’s like to compete and coach internationally.This episode offers great takeaways on mental performance, the future of girls’ sports, and the importance of resilience and adaptability in athletic development. Reagen’s perspective on the evolving landscape of sports for girls—and her vision for the future—is inspiring and motivating.Plus: Stick around till the end as Reagen shares who she is bringing to her dream dinner party, giving us a fun and personal glimpse into her world!Tune in for insights on:  Collegiate sports at all levelsTransitioning from college to professional sportsInternational softball experienceMental performance strategiesThe future of girl’s sports and empowermentListen, learn, and be inspired!     Where to find us: https://www.instagram.com/really_rad_coaching/ https://www.instagram.com/sustainablelife.live/ https://sustainablelifelive.com/#TrainLikeAGirl #GirlPower #SoftballLife #YouthSports #WomenInSports #MentalPerformance #FutureOfSports 

Take a listen to our passionate and dedicated interns who are making a difference in empowering girls through sports and leadership.Introducing Roohee:Our newest team member, Roohee, shares her inspiring journey in sports. As a Black Belt in Martial Arts and a horseback rider from grade school through middle school, Roohee’s story is nothing short of unconventional. Her focus was always on academic achievement, but she also observed the gender inequities and societal emphasis on body image in sports—barriers she now seeks to challenge.Finding ways to release stress and build confidence, Roohee first discovered her competitive spirit on the badminton court and found leadership growth in cross country, where she forged meaningful relationships and made social impacts. A compelling statistic she shares: 94% of women in C-suite roles played sports during their formative years, highlighting the power of sports in fostering future female leaders. Roohee now channels her skills as president of DECA, blending her academic and athletic talents to make an impact in the business world.Liz’s Story:Liz’s journey in sport began with feelings of being non-athletic. She mentions how Illinois uses the FITNESSGRAM assessment, which she believes can sometimes do more harm than good by shaming kids rather than inspiring them. During the pandemic, Liz found joy in walking, jogging, and eventually joining her high school cross country team, where she thrived personally and athletically.Her most impactful experience came from her relationship with her three female coaches, Rief and Sharp, who supported her through conversations about period health, fueling strategies, and mental performance. Today, Liz continues to find joy and competitive spirit in running while studying at the University of Illinois. Her story demonstrates that every girl can find their place in sport when given the chance.Reflective Questions:Kailin wraps up the episode asking important questions about how we can help girls stay in sport, the roles coaches and athletic directors play, and how to create safe, inclusive environments for girls. Liz emphasizes the significance of an all-female coaching staff, words that resonate with the power of girl-led support—Girl Power!Stay Connected:Discover all the ways our interns are making an impact—follow us onNewsletter: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sustainablelife.live/ https://www.instagram.com/rooheepatil/ https://www.instagram.com/lizgeorge_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annemarie.k.sampson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariesampson/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/peac-train-like-a-girl/?viewAsMember=true https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-george-bbab1325a/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/roohee-patil-023b87371/Don’t forget to give us a 5-star review and stay tuned for our upcoming app launch. Join the waiting list for exclusive discounts!

PEAC-Train Like a Girl Podcast — Special Episode with Coach Teri RodgersThis week, I had the honor of sitting down with one of my coaching mentors, Coach Teri Rodgers, a trailblazer who has dedicated her life to empowering female athletes and fighting sexism in sports.Teri’s journey began playing sports alongside her older brother, and her passion for basketball was ignited early. Despite limited resources and gender stereotypes in her youth, she bravely crossed barriers—trying out for boys’ teams when no girls’ teams existed, and later thriving in girls’ programs, thanks in part to her perseverance and the support of her family.Throughout her distinguished career at Duke University and later as a high school basketball coach at New Trier High School, Teri has continually championed inclusion and equity. She is also the co-founder of the Grow the Game tournament, an initiative to elevate women’s involvement in coaching and officiating, and to inspire young girls to see their voice and leadership as vital.In this inspiring conversation, Teri shares her personal story of breaking gender norms, her reflections on Title IX’s impact, and her vision for the future of girls’ and women’s sports. As she prepares to retire after an illustrious coaching career, her legacy and passion for empowering the next generation shine brightly. Key Takeaways:  The importance of Title IX and women’s representation in sports coaching and officiating. How to fight gender stereotypes and create inclusive opportunities for female athletes. The power of community and mentorship in shaping confident young womenTeri’s insights on leadership, resilience, and advocating for change. Join us for an inspiring conversation with a true pioneer in women’s sports. Whether you're a coach, athlete, parent, or advocate, Teri’s story reminds us that every voice matters in shaping the game—and in creating a more equitable world.Connect with Teri Rodgers: https://www.instagram.com/coachrodge22/   https://www.instagram.com/newtriergbb/   https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-rodgers-6b277318/   https://www.linkedin.com/in/annemariesampson/

Welcome back to the Train Like a Girl POD! In this episode, we’re excited to reconnect with Lily Flader, our very first podcast guest. Lily shares her experiences after completing her first year rowing at Michigan State University. Highlights:  Lily’s background as a 3-sport athlete in high school: basketball, soccer, track, and cross country. Her motivation to continue competing and challenging herself athletically at the college level. The importance for college coaches to look for hardworking, motivated athletes—like Lily—to excel at the next level. Michigan State has been a great fit, offering solid academic support—tutors, advisors, and a strong community. Her rowing journey: coaches emphasize work ethic, mental toughness, and being comfortable with discomfort. Physical demands increased: higher volume and load—highlighting the importance of proper fueling, sleep, and nutrition. Lily’s realization: she needs to eat more than she expected and benefits from a team nutritionist to stay on track. Mental Performance: Every athlete wants to try hard. Lily discusses competing with herself and others, but also supporting teammates. Leadership from senior athletes: leading by example, showing intensity, and creating a culture where hard work is celebrated. Team values and goals focus on effort, resilience, and team support. Tune in for inspiring insights from Lily on balancing academics, athletic development, mental toughness, and team leadership!Key Takeaways: college rowing, athlete development, mental toughness, team culture, nutrition, leadership, perseverance.   IG https://www.instagram.com/lilyf_1214/   https://www.instagram.com/msu_rowing/

Fueling Athletes for a Lifetime with Lauren, Registered Dietitian   In this episode of PEAC-train like a girl, we’re diving into the importance of evidence-based nutrition for athletes with Lauren, a passionate and holistic Registered Dietitian. Lauren shares her journey from a soccer player to a dedicated nutrition expert, and discusses key topics such as REDs (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport), Low Energy Availability (LEA), and the significance of proper fueling for athletes of all ages.   Lauren emphasizes the value of a collaborative approach involving athletes, coaches, therapists, RDs, and doctors to optimize overall well-being. She debunks myths around disordered eating, explains the benefits of virtual practice to meet busy schedules, and advocates for practices like "blind weights" for those in ED recovery to ensure a safe and supportive environment.   Tune in as Lauren shares simple, practical tips—including her favorite pasta recipes and on-the-go snacks—that can help athletes fuel their performance and enjoy an active lifestyle for years to come.   Key Topics Covered:   Lauren’s journey from soccer to registered dietitian.Difference between RDN and a nutritionist.Holistic approach to athlete well-being.Understanding REDs and collaborative care in sport.What is Low Energy Availability (LEA)?The importance of "Blind Weights" in ED recovery.Myths about "looks" and disordered eating.Virtual practice to accommodate busy schedules.Simple nutrition tips and favorite recipes (including pasta!)!Fueling for performance and lifetime sport participation.Resources & Links:   Connect with Lauren and her team to learn more about personalized nutrition support.https://laurensbalancedbites.com/?fbclid=PAAaarTJPAfD75ZcmOqZkk8tnWYZ9zOu3CTLZBoFjyescUz7jJnul5oEY2u9Q_aem_AZ-xsHUFAGOr_cfhFf1l-2ELmBmcnSj1zyl5D9stVTtOU3njxmMx_Anwt60_B2NThJc IG: https://www.instagram.com/laurensbalancedbites/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/sustainablelife.live/?hl=en   Remember: Proper nutrition is the key to injury prevention, maintaining energy, understanding hunger cues, and supporting overall health. Whether you’re a young athlete or young at heart (like me at 62!), fueling your body right keeps you in the game for a lifetime.  

Welcome to PEAC, Train Like a Girl, a podcast created by girls in sport, for girls and coaches in sport, aimed at amplifying the voices of female athletes. In this episode, meet Kaitlin, our new intern, as she shares her journey from being a high school cross-country runner to studying journalism, and now, helping to launch an exciting new app focused on empowering female athletes. Join us as we discuss the essential need for female-specific training in sports, addressing topics like core strength, hip stabilization, and the importance of mental health for optimal performance and injury prevention. We’ll delve into the innovative features of our upcoming app designed to offer affordable access to personalized training, nutrition tips, and mental wellness practices. Kaitlin also opens up about the supportive role of her sports community, her transition to college life, and the value of mentorship. Learn about the app's exciting initiatives, including yoga and strength training classes, and how they're set to revolutionize how young female athletes train and connect. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that celebrates the power of community, the importance of effective training, and the future of girls in sport.

TABLE TALKIn this episode of the PEAC-Train Like a Girl podcast, hosts Mia and Megan engage in an illuminating table talk about the discrepancies in athletics, especially as they pertain to female athletes. Mia shares her personal experiences and connects them to a revealing article from The Hoya, highlighting the stark differences in funding between men's and women's athletic programs at Georgetown University.Introduction to Athletic Discrepancies: Findings from a two-year research project conducted by Georgetown University, revealing the significant disparities in funding: $44.8 million for men's varsity sports versus $12.3 million for women's teams for the fiscal year 2022-23.The hosts discuss the impact of these discrepancies on female athletes and the sports community. Focus on Basketball Funding:Notable differences in funding for basketball teams are highlighted, with Georgetown spending $34.3 million on its men’s basketball team and nearly ten times less—$3.5 million—on the women’s team.Insights into how these financial differences affect opportunities and resources available to female athletes.Wider Discrepancies Beyond Funding:Mia and Megan address disparities in housing, food, tutoring access, and academic support, especially for male football and basketball players.Discussion on how athletics remains a stronghold for these discrepancies and what that means for overall equality in sports.The Role of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL):Exploration of how NIL can both benefit and negatively impact athletes.Strong emphasis on the necessity of financial literacy for athletes to navigate the changing landscape of college athletics.Connecting to Resources and Advocacy:Call to action for advocacy within the community to bridge the gaps in resources and support for female athletes.   YOUR VOICEListeners SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND EXPERIENCES athletic discrepancies by using the hashtag #TrainLikeAGirl.   BIG ANNOUNCEMENT:Mia Pasha will be coaching the LHS Girls XC Summer Running program! Tune in to hear more about her exciting journey and how she plans to inspire young athletes. Links for Further Reading:PEAC- Train Like a Girl: https://sustainablelifelive.com/information-podcast The Hoya article: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHwV2lTpM7s/?img_index=1 Additional resources: https://www.voiceinsport.com/

Introduction: This is a fun one! Get comfortable and ready to laugh- and walk away with some tips to enjoy your sport, build community, work hard, and achieve performance results.Annie Galvin, a swimmer from the University of Iowa, and Megan Hartleab, her teammate and roommate, share insights on mental performance. Non-Dualistic Thinking:Exploring the idea that two contrasting truths can coexist, emphasizing complexity in mental performance. Annie's Athletic Journey:Annie's background in various sports, transitioning from soccer to swimming to avoid the physicality of soccer. Community and Team Dynamics:Highlighting the positive experiences from club and high school teams in Ames, IA, where they valued community and support.Trust in Performance:The importance of trust between athletes and coaches. It's considered a two-way street that enhances confidence. Mental Performance Skills:Discussed key skills: focus, confidence, and emotional regulation.Building good habits is essential for fostering these skills. MentalPerformance Practices:Yoga: Discussed the benefits in promoting physical and mental wellness.Meditation: Benefits for calming the mind and enhancing focus.Journaling: Helps in self-reflection and identifying personal growth outside of sports. Positive Mindset:Transitioning from "I have to" to "I get to" related to responsibilities and opportunities in sports. Acknowledged as challenging but rewarding. Valuing Experiences:Annie emphasizes cherishing memories and experiences over competitive times and records. Post-Graduation Plans:Annie will work at the University of Iowa in fundraising, looking forward to travel opportunities.Stay tuned to find out who Annie invites to her dinner party, adding a personal touch to the episode. This episode underscores the importance of mental performance, community, and personal growth in sports, alongside practical strategies for athletes to enhance their well-being and performance

Join us in this empowering episode of the “PEAC - Train Like a Girl” podcast as we delve into Becky’s extraordinary journey as a dual citizen of the United States and Mexico. Becky's story is a tapestry of resilience, determination, and personal growth that will inspire young athletes everywhere.Athletic Evolution:From a young age, Becky dazzled on the gymnastics mat before discovering her true passion for soccer—a sport that also runs in the family, as her sister excelled in it too. With dreams of playing collegiate soccer in the US, Becky made a bold decision to move to Tampa, FL. This leap into the unknown was the beginning of a transformative chapter in her life.Step Outside the Comfort Zone:Living on her own for the first time was both exhilarating and challenging. Becky bravely faced homesickness but instead of retreating, she embraced the opportunity to grow. Through founding a close-knit friend group, she discovered that stepping outside her comfort zone can be a source of immense strength and growth.Connection and Communication:Maintaining a strong bond with her family became essential for Becky. She worked diligently on her communication with them, ensuring that even while miles apart, their connection remained strong. This practice not only grounded her but also provided a comforting sense of stability during her college transition.Life at Marian College:At Marian College in Indiana, Becky continued to nurture her friendships, which helped her stay connected to her roots while also embracing her new environment. Recognizing the importance of balance, she prioritized her academics over athletics and soon learned that her identity wasn't solely tied to her athletic performance.Well-Being and Mindfulness:Becky’s journey highlighted the significance of overall well-being. She learned valuable lessons about the power of sleep and nutrition, ensuring she was well-prepared for practices and competitions. With her faith and the unwavering support of friends as her foundation, Becky thrived both on and off the field.Celebrating Her Team's Success:As part of the Marian University Women's Soccer team, Becky and her teammates put in hard work and dedication, culminating in a commendable 2024 season that ended in the NAIA Tournament Round of 16. With a final record of 17 wins, 4 losses, and 2 draws, their journey together symbolizes the spirit of teamwork and commitment.Join Us:Becky’s story is a reminder that growth often lies beyond our comfort zones and that our true identity is multifaceted. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey and gather insights that resonate beyond the field!   Follow on IGhttps://www.instagram.com/beckyquezadaa/https://www.instagram.com/marianwsoc/https://www.instagram.com/mariantrackxc/https://www.instagram.com/peac_train_like_a_girl/

Guest: Kate Ringwood, LCPC (she/her)Profession: Psychotherapist | Eating Disorder Specialist at Serendipity Counseling ServicesOverview:In this episode, we delve into the critical intersection of mental health and eating disorders among female athletes with Kate Ringwood. Drawing from her experiences as both a former athlete and a psychotherapist, Kate provides invaluable insights into the emotional challenges faced by athletes.Key Discussion Points:Personal Connection: Kate shares her journey as a former high school and college athlete, offering a unique perspective on the mental and emotional obstacles that athletes encounter.Eating Disorders in Athletes: Kate emphasizes that eating disorders among athletes are often misunderstood. She highlights that 70% of athletes may struggle with disordered eating, underscoring the importance of normalizing therapy and mental health discussions.Combatting Loneliness: We discuss how vulnerability plays a crucial role in building connections and overcoming loneliness. Kate stresses the power of letting oneself be seen authentically to foster deeper relationships.Binge Eating Disorders: Notably, Kate points out that Binge Eating Disorders are among the most common eating disorders in athletes, demonstrating the need for awareness and support.Creating Safe Spaces: Through virtual counseling, Kate aims to provide a comfortable environment that allows athletes to reach out without the barriers of time or busy schedules.Tips for Coaches and Caretakers: Foster a community-oriented approach while also catering to individual needs.Normalize diverse eating habits by sharing meals and being open to discussions around mental health. Emphasize that all foods are equal and should not be categorized as good or bad.Kate's expertise sheds light on the often-overlooked mental health challenges that female athletes face. By fostering open conversations around eating disorders and mental health, we can create a more understanding and supportive environment for athletes.   Find Kate and myself: https://lane-9-membership.circle.so/c/find-a-clinician-or-coach/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lane9project/ https://www.instagram.com/serendipity.counseling/ https://www.instagram.com/sustainablelife.live/ https://www.instagram.com/peac_train_like_a_girl/   Contact Information:  Email: kateringwoodlpc@gmail.comWebsite: www.serendipitycounseling.com