The Swim Parent Podcast

9 Episodes
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By: Roxana Perdue

The podcast for parents navigating the world of competitive youth swimming. I'm your host, Roxana Perdue. I'll be asking swim experts all the questions. Join us for some great conversations.

Interview with USA Olympic Open Water Swimmer Ashley Twichell
03/24/2026

Learn more about Open Water Swimming from Olympic swimmer Ashley Twichell. She shares insights into the unique challenges and strategies of open water swimming, from race tactics to training tips and balancing motherhood with elite athletics.

Ashley Twitchell Instagram -

https://www.instagram.com/atwall616

Ashley Twitchell TikTok -

https://www.tiktok.com/@ashleytwichell

keywords

Open Water Swimming, Olympic Athlete, Race Strategy, Training Tips, Motherhood and Sports


Interview with Derek Wall on Fuel, Focus, and Recovery Tips for Swimmers During Championship Season
02/19/2026

In this episode of the Swim Parent Podcast, host Roxana Perdue speaks with the executive director of the Triangle Aquatic Center, Derek Wall about the demands of championship swim meets, the importance of fueling and recovery for athletes, and how these experiences teach valuable life skills. They discuss practical strategies for swimmers to manage their energy and emotions during competitions, the significance of parental support, and the ongoing learning process through Derek's memos on swimmer development.

Read Derek's Memos Here:

https://www.triangleaquatics.org/more-than-performance/

Find out more about...


Sports Photography and What Goes Into Getting Great Shots: Interview with Photographer Paul Morea
02/04/2026

Paul Morea, a North Carolina-based sports and event photographer, shares insights into the world of sports photography, particularly focusing on the challenges and techniques involved in capturing swim events. He discusses the importance of lighting, the unique difficulties of photographing athletes underwater, and the emotional aspects of sports photography. Paul also provides practical tips for parents looking to capture great photos of their children during swim meets, emphasizing the need for good equipment, understanding the sport, and the significance of composition and focus. Throughout the discussion, he highlights his journey into photography and the joy he finds in capturing...


Interview with TAC Titans Coach JP: Patience and Long-Term Development is Crucial for Success
12/17/2025

In this conversation, Roxana interviews TAC Titans Coach John "JP" Payne, an experienced coach, discussing his extensive background in swimming and coaching elite athletes. They explore the characteristics of successful swimmers, the importance of fostering a love for the sport in young athletes, and how to measure improvement beyond just times. JP emphasizes the significance of long-term development, learning from challenges, and the role of coachability in achieving success. The discussion also touches on the connection between music and swimming, highlighting how rhythm and timing play a crucial role in both disciplines.

Takeaways<...


What Swim Parents Can Learn from Physical Therapists: Interview with Next Level Physio DPTs
12/09/2025

In this conversation, experts in physical therapy discuss the importance of injury prevention, treatment, and the role of strength training for young athletes, particularly swimmers. They emphasize the need for a holistic approach to athlete health, recognizing signs of overtraining, and the significance of communication between parents and therapists. The discussion also covers the importance of enjoying the journey of youth sports and finding the right physical therapist for optimal athlete care.

Next Level Physio Website: https://nlphysio.com/

Next Level Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextlevelphysiopt/

Next Level YouTube: https...


What Swim Parents Can Learn From a Mental Training Coach: Interview with Dr. Nori Pennisi
12/02/2025

In this episode of the Swim Parent Podcast, Dr. Nori Pennisi discusses the vital role of mental training in sports, particularly swimming. She emphasizes the importance of understanding children's motivations, balancing support with independence, and avoiding comparisons with other athletes. Dr. Pennisi also highlights the significance of focusing on process goals rather than just outcomes, navigating challenges, and recognizing that not all children are naturally competitive. Ultimately, she encourages parents to foster resilience and help their children grow into well-rounded individuals through their sports experiences.

To set up an appointment with Dr. Nori via email...


Becca Mann Interview: Music, Writing, Open Water, US National Team, Lady Gaga, and Measuring Success
11/25/2025

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Becca Mann shares her journey as a swimmer, author, and advocate for mental health. She discusses her experiences in competitive swimming, the importance of family support, and how she has redefined success beyond just making the Olympics. Becca opens up about her struggles with OCD and the role of therapy in her life. She also highlights the differences between open water and pool swimming, her love for music, and her recent literary projects, including her young adult dystopian novel.

Outside the Lanes: https://www.amazon.com...


Feeding Hungry Swimmers: What to Know About Protein, Creatine, and Hydration with Chris Newport
#1
11/18/2025

In this episode of the Swim Parent Podcast, Roxana Perdue interviews Chris Newport, a registered dietitian and sports nutritionist, about the importance of nutrition for age group swimmers. They discuss fueling strategies for practice and meets, the role of protein and hydration, the impact of sugar on performance, and the benefits of creatine as a supplement. Chris shares practical tips for busy families to ensure their young athletes are well-nourished and engaged in their own nutrition. The conversation emphasizes building a healthy relationship with food and the importance of making informed choices for long-term wellness.

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The Swim Parent Podcast: Trailer
11/10/2025

The podcast for parents navigating the world of competitive age group swimming! I'm your non-swim-expert host, Roxana Perdue.