Finding the American Ninja Warrior in You | Jennifer Burdis | Athlete, Teacher & Author

Jennifer Burdis is a two-season American Ninja Warrior, former Penn State volleyball player, teacher, trainer, speaker, and author of The Edju-Ninja Mindset. At just 5’1”, she’s built a career proving that obstacles can be the very things that define your path. Growing up in rural Pennsylvania, Jennifer overcame dyslexia, pursued a collegiate athletic career, and later competed on Season 6 and Season 7 of American Ninja Warrior. She shares how her athlete mindset shapes her work today, from teaching health and wellness to students and educators, to training clients ranging from NFL coaches to a 96-year-old grandma named Wanda. Her story is a powerful reminder that when you see challenges as opportunities, you can achieve more than you imagined. Chapters 00:00 Meet Jennifer Burdis 03:10 Growing Up in Rural Pennsylvania 07:25 Overcoming Dyslexia and Finding Confidence 11:27 The Dichotomy of Mindset and Heart 15:40 Playing Volleyball at Penn State 19:15 Competing on American Ninja Warrior Seasons 6 & 7 23:30 Transition from Athlete to Educator and Trainer 28:50 Teaching Health and Wellness for Students and Teachers 33:40 Working with NFL Coaches, Pro Athletes, and Wanda at 96 38:15 Authoring The Edju-Ninja Mindset 42:50 Lessons from Travel and Adventure 47:20 Advice for Turning Obstacles into Opportunities The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices