Raising Pro Athletes
It takes a village to raise a professional athlete ... For the first time ever, this podcast talks to the people that normally get very little mention, but are the ones who are responsible for the underlying success of an athlete. Marina pulls back the curtain and dives deep into what it really takes to raise an athlete. What to expect when you listen: * The real, raw truth * Laughter, and maybe some tears * The struggles and the successes In this podcast, you will find the support you’ve been searching for to RAISE PRO ATHLETES with confidence, and so much more …
You Strengthen Your Mind When You Set Written, Present-Tense Goals And Visualize Them Daily
Your goals are either written and alive or floating away like clouds. We take you inside a simple 8–10 minute routine—writing present-tense goals, visualizing with vivid detail, and closing with short meditation—that builds mental toughness for young climbers and the families who support them. No hype, just a clear sequence that turns ambition into daily action.
We start with the power of the written word. When you move from “I want to be on the podium” to “I am on the podium,” you shift identity, attention, and behavior. You’ll hear how we break goals into short, middle, a...
How To Teach Kids The Power Of Visualization For Goals, Confidence, And Fun In Sport
We teach a simple visualization routine for young athletes, then connect it to goal setting and a quick meditation primer that boosts focus. Marina shares a parent-friendly process to make scenes vivid, present-tense, and actionable for both short-term and long-term aims.
• mental toughness exercise one: visualization for kids
• defining visualization with clear, present-tense scenes
• short pre-competition visuals for calm and focus
• long-term visions tied to measurable goals
• pairing visualization with meditation to sharpen attention
• coaching children to refine their scripts
• transition to goal setting as exercise two
• community invite to share what works...
Why Talking About Injury Feelings Helps Everyone Heal
This episode is a bit of a tough one, but it’s something every athlete and parent might face at some point: dealing with injuries and the resentment that comes with them.
Trust me, I’ve been through it all with my family’s adventures in extreme sports, and I get how challenging it can be.
When your kid is used to training every day and suddenly has to stop, frustration and impatience are inevitable. It’s completely normal, and we need to acknowledge these feelings rather than push them aside.
So let's get on the...
Why Youth Competitions Build Mental Toughness And Real Skill
We explore why competitions are essential training for young athletes and how short, consistent mindset work changes results. A tough Spanish Cup reveals mental gaps, and simple tools like visualization and story reframes fuel a quick rebound to finals.
• competitions as training, not just results
• pressure exposing mental weak links
• the Spanish Cup setback and lessons
• visualization as a core practice
• story reframes to stop spirals
• five-minute mental routines at home
• thinking small first, then expanding goals
• focusing on process over podiums
• using frequent events to gather feedback
• building motivation...
Resilience, PTSD - Inside The Hidden Cost Of Extreme Sports Injuries
What happens when a love for climbing, biking, and skating collides with the reality of trauma? We open up about the injuries that reshaped our family—from a misdiagnosed concussion to a 20-meter fall that pulverized a heel—and the messy, human work of recovery. This isn’t a highlight reel; it’s a clear-eyed look at risk, resilience, and the identity shifts that follow when the body can’t return to where it was.
We dig into the fast-twitch mindset of extreme athletes and why many rush back after major crashes. There’s power in grit, but also bli...
Rewire the What If Toward Courage And Action for Kid Athletes
Ever notice how your brain rehearses the worst-case scenario while your habits keep repeating the same unhelpful routine? We dive into two tiny, high-impact shifts that can reset both: do the opposite when a pattern isn’t working, and flip your “what if” from fear to possibility. These simple tools help parents, athletes, and busy professionals break cycles, reclaim focus, and step into performances that match their preparation.
First, we unpack opposite action with real examples. If yelling never gets kids moving faster, try ignoring the trigger or praising the next right step. If instant email replies wreck...
Your Child’s Goals Called; They Want To Be Outrageous
We explore why kids freeze when told to “think big” and show a simple, repeatable way to make bold goals feel safe and practical. Writing, visualization, and playful exaggeration turn fear into curiosity and help families build a shared habit of big thinking.
• why “think big” falls flat for kids
• the power of writing goals without limits
• using vivid visualization to lower fear
• modeling outrageous possibilities without judgment
• weekly rituals that build consistency
• pairing big dreams with small actions
• inviting feedback and making it a family habit
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Breaking The Loop: Teaching Young Athletes The Reset Button
Pressure can turn smart climbers into repeaters. We’ve watched our kids and many young athletes fall into the loop—same beta, same miss, rising panic—while the clock burns. So we built a simple mental toolkit we call the reset button: stop, breathe, reframe, and make one clear change before the next attempt. It’s a quick pattern interrupt that swaps brute force for better decisions and helps young climbers read problems with fresh eyes.
We start with the repetition trap and why it’s so common in bouldering comps with 4–5 minute clocks and longer open sessions. Af...
Why Young Athletes Get Hurt More During Puberty And How Parents Can Prevent It
We explore why injuries spike for young athletes during puberty and how parents can adjust training to protect long-term growth. Marina shares lessons from two climbers, the cost of overload, and how rest and coach quality change everything.
• puberty-driven mismatch between rapid bone growth and slower tendon adaptation
• common injury sites in climbing, especially fingers, shoulders, and elbows
• sudden training load increases after “getting serious” at 14
• comparison traps fueled by highlight reels and silence around injuries
• practical load management during growth spurts and using rest days well
• smarter alternatives on rest days like core, cardi...
Power Poses For Parents And Teens: How A Two-Minute Physiology Shift Boosts Mood, Confidence, And Performance
What if two minutes could flip the script on a bad mood, a shaky practice, or a high-pressure comp? We explore the underrated power of physiology—how posture, breath, and gaze send real signals to the brain that shape feelings and focus. As a mom of two young climbers and partner to an extreme athlete, I’ve seen how a simple stance shift can help a grumpy teen find ground, an anxious competitor find calm, and a frustrated parent find their center without dismissing anyone’s emotions.
We break down the practical reset: stand tall, chest up, arms r...
When Your Kid’s Sport Becomes Your Whole World
What happens when your child’s sport becomes your identity? We open a frank, compassionate conversation about the moment a supportive role quietly turns into a label—soccer mom, tennis dad, climbing parent—and why that shift can derail a young athlete’s joy, growth, and mental health. Using a revealing tennis family case, we explore the hidden costs of endless travel, constant training blocks, and the pressure to “make it,” even when results suggest a different future.
I share how families slide from healthy commitment into identity lock-in, where sunk costs and social expectations overpower honest evaluation...
How Parents And Athletes Decide It’s Time To Quit
We wrestle with the hardest call in youth sports: knowing when to quit the pro chase without losing love for the game. Real stories from climbing and tennis reveal the pull of sunk costs, identity, and hope.
• defining a fair line between grit and stop
• what close calls actually signal in results
• survivorship bias in elite sports stories
• the cost of parent identity tied to sport
• benchmarks to guide a pivot or exit
• options beyond competing that honor the work
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Parenting Through Sports Injuries
We're getting real about sports injuries and how to handle them when your child has to walk away from the sport they love.
It's a big deal, and as someone who's been through it all—from my husband's insane injuries to my own kids' scrapes and bruises—I've got some insights and questions for you. Let’s work together through this tough situation!
We face the hardest truth in youth and lifestyle sports: injuries can end a dream and remake a life. We share our family’s injury history, why climbing shapes our days, and how parent...
Parents Should Treat Youth Sports Like Serious Learning, Not A Hobby
What if the same energy we pour into college tuition went into a child’s proven passion? That question pushed us to make a bold move: relocate to Spain so our two young climbers could train where the facilities, coaching, and community would stretch them. Along the way, we ran straight into a cultural double standard—applauding academic uncertainty while labeling youth sports “just a hobby”—and we decided to challenge it.
We break down what genuine support looks like when a kid shows real drive: not just praise, but logistics, budget choices, and the humility to let growth...
Rethinking Education When Your Kid Might Go Pro in Sports
In our society, there's an ingrained belief that university education is the only path to success. But what if your child's passion lies in becoming a professional rock climber or excelling in a particular sport? So today, we're diving into a critical topic that demands our attention: how to properly educate our athletes to help them reach their highest potential.
As a parent, we must challenge the prevailing paradigm of non-traditional education invalidity and recognize that the prime years for nurturing an athlete's potential are during their teens and early 20s. Investing in their athletic training and...
How Sports Costs, Sacrifice, And Self-Care Collide For Athlete Parents
Ever feel like you've become a human ATM for your little rock stars? Yeah, me too! This episode is all about the guilt trip we all take – neglecting ourselves for the sake of our kids' athletic dreams.
Forget the trophy case – the real reward is a happy, healthy YOU! Taking care of yourself actually makes you a BETTER parent for your kids. I will be talking about the importance of finding a balance between supporting your athlete's dreams and keeping yourself happy.
What do you do to recharge and fill your cup? Let's build a commun...
Parents’ Guide To Building Mental Toughness In Young Athletes
Ever watched your kids crumble under pressure at a competition? Yeah, been there. This episode is all about the ultimate game-changer: mental toughness training!
It's not about being born tough, it's about building mental strength! I'll share a personal story of my son's competition flop, to show you how important mental preparation is. I'll also share some awesome tips on mental toughness that'll have your kid's mind feeling like their biggest cheerleader, not their worst critic. So, let's dive in!
We argue that 80–90% of performance comes from the mind and share a simple, daily routine pa...
Spotting Post-Traumatic Stress After Sports Injuries
Today, I'm going to really open up about a topic that's close to home for many of us: the invisible battles that many extreme athletes face, the trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Find out how PTSD can sneak up on even the toughest athletes, and why it might not show up right away. Learn the red flags to watch out for so you can catch it before it takes hold.
• the high rate of PTSD among extreme athletes
• injuries in climbing and family impact
• delayed onset and subtle signs at home
• moving f...
Keeping Your Partnership Alive While Raising A Competitive Athlete
Let's talk about the elephant in the room (or maybe the belay station) – your relationship with your partner! This episode is all about keeping the spark alive when your life revolves around raising champion athletes.
Do you remember why you fell in love with your partner in the first place? Juggling kids, competitions, and early morning belay duty – who has time for romance? Well, I’d love to share some tips on how to keep your relationship strong, even when your kids are the ones conquering the walls.
• naming the unspoken strain on couples in youth sp...
Homeschooling & Traditional Schooling: Which One is Best for an Athlete?
Today, let's dive into the often debated topic of homeschooling versus traditional schooling for young athletes. We'll explore the reality, challenges, and alternative education options that can support their athletic journey.
As we discovered firsthand, many successful pro athletes are homeschooled or engage in flexible remote learning due to the demanding travel and training commitments. However, homeschooling didn't align with our family dynamic. We sought alternative education paths that are offered by the progressive alternative schools. These schools provide flexibility, support, and a community that embraces the pursuit of athletic dreams. It's important to consider that alternative...
Competitive Climbing in Front of Cameras: The Benefits, The Risks & Pressures
With a crew of eight to ten cameras capturing their every move, the climbers' true characters emerged. Some blossomed, energized by the attention and excitement - it was evident that being in front of the camera fueled their performance. On the other hand, a few talented athletes struggled to handle the pressure. Their innate abilities momentarily faded as they faced the overwhelming presence of cameras.
Becoming a professional athlete entails learning to thrive in front of the cameras. It's an essential skill to master. As spectators, we only see the final result, the polished performance. But behind...
Sports and Education: The Options, Costs, and Risks of a Child Athlete Pursuing College
In our society, there's an ingrained belief that university education is the only path to success. But what if your child's passion lies in becoming a professional rock climber or excelling in a particular sport? So today, we're diving into a critical topic that demands our attention: how to properly educate our athletes to help them reach their highest potential.
As a parent, we must challenge the prevailing paradigm of non-traditional education invalidity and recognize that the prime years for nurturing an athlete's potential are during their teens and early 20s. Investing in their athletic training and...
Buying a Team Uniform for Competitive Climbing: Cost Analysis, the Importance, and the Benefits
As parents, we invest in memberships, coaching, federation, and equipment, but often overlook the significance of a uniform. It's not just about appearance; it symbolizes commitment and belonging. When your child is the only one without a uniform in the team, it creates a sense of detachment and sends the wrong message. By embracing the uniform, your child becomes an integral part of a unit, fostering a sense of camaraderie and team spirit.
Topics discussed in this episode:
Rock Climbing Terminology: Conglomerate Rock for Rock Climbing and it's Characteristics
Learning about rock formation. Apparently, this is quite crucial for all climbers.
This is what is called a conglomerate. Basically, what it is, it's rocks within rocks, right?
Millions and millions and millions of years old with these pockets. Right? So the pockets are great for fingers, but there's no place to put your feet. So that's what makes it a little bit harder and more challenging.
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About This Podcast
It takes a village t...
Rock Climbing Terminology: Pockets in Climbing, Different Types and Uses
We're going to explore the exciting world of rock climbing and talk about one of the most important things climbers need to know: Pockets.
These are small holes or spaces in the rock that you can use to grip onto, whether it's a one-finger pocket or a four-finger pocket. We'll learn about the different types of pockets, how to use them, and the challenges they present. Get ready for an adventure-packed episode that will leave you wanting to hit the rocks and start climbing!
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About This Podcast
What is the Approach in Rock Climbing? Getting to the Rock Explained
I'm going to give you the inside scoop on what an approach really means in rock climbing. The approach is the journey from the trailhead to the actual rock face, and it can be a real adventure in itself. From steep terrain to dense forests, the approach can be a daunting task that requires endurance, patience, and a willingness to take risks. But trust me, the reward of reaching the top of that rock is worth every step of the approach. So let's lace up our boots and get ready to explore the world of rock climbing approaches in...
Warming Up is Key in Rock Climbing: The Importance of Preparing Yourself for the Climb
Warming up is crucial when you start to climb. Hang boarding is one way to warm up. Usually, everybody brings a hang board to warm up before also using bands. This is a really big help and truly worth it. This is a much lower grade, and it's warming up. So it's always really important to warm up in a much lower grade than what you're planning on training at so that your muscles are ready to go.
I want to talk to you about the importance of warming up before climbing. Hang boarding is a great...
Rock Climbing Terminology: What is Considered a First Ascent?
As a rock climber, understanding the lingo is crucial. One term that often comes up is FA or First Ascent. It refers to the first person to successfully climb and send a route. On the other hand, FFA stands for First Female Ascent, which recognizes the first female to send a particular route. These terms highlight the importance of achievement and progress in the rock climbing community, and as a climber, it's essential to know and respect the significance of these milestones.
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About This Podcast
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Joining a National Climbing Team: Federation Costs, the Pros, the Cons, and Costs
Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is a federation? Well, think of it as the governing body for climbers in your country, like the USA Climbing Team or the Spain Federation. These federations play a crucial role when it comes to representing your country on the global stage, such as the Olympics. But let's talk about the nitty-gritty—fees and costs, they vary from country to country.
Having experienced three different federations—Guatemala, the US, and now Spain—I can tell you firsthand that each system is unique. Guatemala, for instance, operates under a socialized system with n...
Costs of Joining a Competitive Climbing Team: Teams, Gyms, Training and Preparation Costs
Let’s unravel the hidden costs and uncharted territories of joining a competitive rock climbing team. We start by exploring the different types of teams available, focusing on the advanced and competitive ones that propel young climbers to the next level. I recount my personal journey of finding the perfect team for my kids, emphasizing the importance of finding a group that challenges them and provides top-notch coaching.
But what about the financial aspects? I discuss the varying costs across different countries, drawing from our experiences in the United States and Spain. From monthly team fees to ad...
How to Keep Your Kid Humble While They Excel in Their Sports and Athletics
In this episode, join me as we tackle a crucial topic: not letting your child's success go to their head. Living in Guatemala, my kids trained extensively, mostly self-taught, until we hired a coach from Chile. As we ventured to Spain, a hub of world-class climbers, we sought a team to elevate our children's skills. However, I realized the danger of excessive praise and the impact it can have on a young athlete's mindset. Inspired by the renowned entrepreneur Jeff Bezos, I delve into the importance of humility and the drawbacks of labeling children as "talented."
Through...
What is the Right Training Plan for Your Kid? Tips for Finding the Right One
Today, let’s delve deep into the heart of finding the perfect coaches and team for both of my sons, who are now at the next level of rock climbing. With me, Marina, we will unravel the complexities of both competition climbing and rock climbing, highlighting the distinct differences, and the need for tailored training plans. Discover the unique challenges we face as we navigate the exciting world of parenting, and how we've adapted our approach to accommodate these diverse aspirations.
We will also discuss deeply into the financial aspects that accompany this endeavor. From coaching fees, gym...
Parenting an Athlete: Your Role in Building Your Kid's Journey to Pro
Let’s explore the captivating journey of parenting professional athletes. In this episode, we delve into the crucial roles parents play in nurturing their aspiring rock climbers. Living in Spain, we've encountered families from around the world, all sharing the same determination to see their children reach new heights in the climbing world.
One parent takes on the primary role, fully dedicated to their child's training, practice, and involvement. They accompany their young climber to the gym, arrange guided trips to outdoor crags, and handle all coach communications and competition registrations. It's a demanding responsibility that transforms in...
Why I Prefer Rock Climbing as a Parent: Benefits Compared to Other Extreme Sports
Let's talk about the one-of-a-kind bond between parents and their children that can be found in the thrilling sport of rock climbing. As a parent who doesn't climb myself, I'm always on the lookout for ways to connect with my kids. And let me tell you, rock climbing has been a game-changer! The best part? You don't have to climb to join in on the fun.
The magic happens when you're watching your kids scale up the rock face right in front of you. Not only can you hear every word they say, but you can also...
Ethics of Rock Climbing: Where to Pee? Tips on How - To and Where
Get ready to climb into the world of rock climbing ethics with me in this episode! As someone who's never climbed before, I was fascinated to learn about the unwritten rules of the climbing community. Did you know there are certain areas where climbers are allowed to go and others where it's strictly off-limits? It's all about respecting the natural environment and other climbers.
But let's get down to the nitty-gritty: where to pee. This topic may not come up in everyday conversation, but it's an important one in the world of climbing. While it may seem...
Ethics of Rock Climbing: Learn When to Stay Quiet and Show Respect
Who knew that one of the ethics of rock climbing is being quiet when someone else is tackling a challenging route? It may seem like a small detail, but it's actually a sign of respect and courtesy towards fellow climbers.
It turns out that being quiet when someone is attempting a hard route is an ethical requirement! Yes, you read that right. Even if you don't know the climber or are a hundred meters away from them, you are expected to be respectful and stay quiet.
I must admit that I was oblivious to this r...
Ethics of Rock Climbing: The Dos and Don'ts of Playing Music While Climbing
Are you a rock climber who loves to pump up the volume with some tunes while scaling up a challenging route? Well, hold on to your speakers because I've got some news for you. According to the unwritten ethics of rock climbing, listening to music out loud is a big no-no, especially when you're climbing with a lot of people around
In this episode, we talk about the unspoken code of conduct in the rock climbing community when it comes to blasting music. While it's not technically prohibited, it's generally frowned upon as it goes against the...
The Secret Strength of Climber Kai Lightner - Connie Lightner (His Mom)
"Protecting our kids is our number one responsibility", Connie told me when we first connected.
And she took this role incredibly seriously, in the non-conventional ways. Because protecting our kids in sports is rarely talked about and definitely not considered to be a priority. Because it usually is easily missed or we aren't alert to the signs.
Connie and I talk about her role as Kai's coach in the beginning, the roles of coaches (the good and the bad).
How about all the is involved to fully supporting your child for...
Dierdre Wolownick: A Talk With Alex Honnold's Mom
"I’m not the usual kind of ‘athlete’s mom’ that you’re accustomed to interviewing," Dierdre warned me when we first connected about being on the podcast.
And that's why I knew I had to speak to the mother of Alex Honnold, who is considered today's most accomplished rock climber and the real life star of Free Solo, Oscar winning documentary.
Raising a child like Alex Honnold takes courage and trust. This kind of support is usually taken for granted but can either stifle a child if 'overprotected' or let them blossom to become...
Finding the Right Climbing Team: Why You Need to Choose Wisely
You don't want the coaches to be in awe of your kids because that doesn't really work.
Why is it essential to choose the right climbing team for your child? Selecting the perfect climbing team for your child is crucial if you want to see them soar to new heights. As a parent, it's natural to want the best for your child and to provide them with opportunities to thrive. However, when it comes to climbing, finding the right team is more than just about opportunity - it can make all the difference in your...
