Forged Youth | Legacy Within

Send us Fan MailMost athletes spend hours perfecting their physical skills, but what if the real game-changer is learning how to master your inner world? Spencer Delisle, a visionary in emotional regulation and mental resilience, joins Mariel Anderson to reveal the art of self-awareness, breathwork, and intuition as keys to unlocking peak performance. In this episode, you'll discover how awareness and acceptance can help you manage stress, dial down anger, and stay present under pressure. Spencer shares stories of how a calm mind fuels confidence, how breath connects body and mind, and why developing intuition is a game-winning skill at every level. Whether you’re a young athlete battling doubt, a parent wanting to support without adding pressure, or a coach striving to build resilient humans, this conversation rewires the way you understand your mental game.This is your invitation to see sport as a training ground for life. It is a space to forge character, grit, and legacy through mastery of the inner game. Perfect for athletes, parents, and coaches committed to elevating their mental resilience and embracing their potential.About SpencerSpencer Delisle is a global meditation teacher, executive coach, and the President of the Art of Living Foundation Canada — one of the world’s largest volunteer-run organizations dedicated to mental health, leadership, and human values. For over two decades, Spencer has helped thousands of people — from executives and first responders to elite athletes — access peak performance and inner peace through the science of breath and meditation.Drawing on his background in both neuroscience and high-performance training, Spencer has coached amateur and professional athletes, including ITF Tour juniors, NCAA Division I, and professional tennis players, integrating cutting-edge mental conditioning, breathwork, and recovery strategies to unlock flow states and sustainable excellence.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support and community!Keep up with Spencer on: LinkedinInstagramFacebookSupport the show

Send us Fan MailSometimes, the biggest breakthrough starts with the tiniest step. In this episode of Forged Youth, Mariel sits down with Jordan to talk about how tiny, deliberate actions can lead to monumental growth in sport, and in life. Whether you're a young athlete feeling overwhelmed or a parent trying to support resilience, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom. You’ll discover how incremental improvements, day by day, build confidence, foster resilience, and shape who you are. And they break it down into bite-sized strategies you can start applying today. From the importance of pausing before tough decisions to celebrating tiny wins, this episode reminds you that you don’t have to climb Everest overnight. Every small step counts, and it’s those small wins that forge a lasting legacy. Whether you're on the ice, in the gym, or just navigating everyday life, this conversation will remind you: your journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about persistence, progress, and purpose. Are you ready to start small, think big, and forge your legacy? This episode is your playbook.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support and community!Support the show

Send us Fan MailConfidence is built through your mindset, your habits, and the stories you tell yourself every day. Jasmit Singh Phulka, a world-class wrestler and a man who’s defied every expectation, drops the truth about how mental toughness, patience, and self-awareness shape performance, even when the odds are stacked against you. If you’re tired of feeling pressure, overthinking your next move, or watching your confidence slip away when it matters most, this episode is your guide to reclaiming your confidence. Jasmit shares how his journey from a reluctant, scrappy kid to a seasoned international athlete taught him that sports reveal what needs strengthening, mentally and emotionally. You’ll discover how the art of effortless effort, mastering the pause, and controlling what you can actually impact are the fundamentals of creating resilience that lasts a lifetime. With real stories of pushing through injury, aging, and adversity, he proves that resilience is not just about physical grit, it’s a mindset you can train daily. We break down:How to see setbacks as opportunities for growth, not failuresWhy mental rehearsal and visualization are game-changers in high-pressure moments The importance of surrounding yourself with coaches and mentors who build your confidence as a person, not just an athletePractical ways to strengthen your self-talk and manage anxiety before big performancesWhy longevity is an art and staying at the top requires constant mental renewal and adaptabilityJasmeet’s insights remind us that sport is a training ground for life and that who you become in the process matters far more than medals or trophies. If you want to forge a legacy that lasts, start by mastering your mind. Because true confidence is created, not found. Train your mind. Build your grit. Forge your legacy.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support and community!About JasmitJasmit Singh Phulka is a community leader, wrestler, and city council candidate based in Abbotsford, British Columbia. Known for his discipline, resilience, and commitment to service, he has built a strong reputation through both athletics and community involvement.Jasmit brings the perseverance, focus, and work ethic developed through sport into his leadership. As a husband and father, he is passionate about supporting local families, businesses, and community growth. His approach is grounded in listening to residents, finding practical solutions, and creating meaningful connections.Whether competing in wrestling or serving his community, Jasmit is driven by a commitment to making a positive impact and helping build a stronger future for the community.Check Out Jasmit's CampaignKeep up with Jasmit on:FacebookLinkedinInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Chris Ryan breaks down how movement, efficiency, and mindset shape performance far beyond the finish line. Whether you're a young athlete, parent, or coach, you'll discover why understanding the power of form, emotional resilience, and efficiency can actually make you faster, stronger, and less injury-prone. Chris shares vivid stories, from the importance of mastering the power step to the brilliance of hill sprints, showing how a small shift in your approach can unlock extraordinary results. You’ll learn how to train smarter, move more efficiently, and develop mental toughness that prepares you for obstacles inside and outside of sport. This isn’t just about becoming a better athlete, it's about forging resilience, confidence, and leadership that will serve for a lifetime.With insights rooted in biomechanics, high-performance training, and raw human grit, Chris emphasizes the greatness already inside you. Whether you're coaching a young kid or trying to refine your own movement, this episode will inspire you to look beyond the scoreboard and start building character, grit, and legacy... one powerful step at a time. Perfect for youth athletes eager to optimize performance, parents seeking to support without pressure, and coaches dedicated to developing resilient leaders. Remember: sport is a training ground for life and your journey is the destination. Train your mind. Build your grit. Forge your legacy.About ChrisChris Ryan is a renowned fitness expert and founder of the Chris Ryan Fitness App, known for energetic, encouraging coaching. A former Division I track & field athlete at the University of Florida, he’s been named one of America’s Top 10 Trainers, appeared on NBC’s STRONG, and served as a founding trainer for MIRROR/lululemon Studio. Chris has written for Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Men’s Fitness, and Shape, and consulted for brands like Nike, lululemon, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Raised in Michigan, he lives in Bronxville, NY with his wife Denise and their three children — Achilles, Athena, and Aristotle — for whom he happily makes protein-packed chocolate pancakes on weekend mornings.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support and community!Check out Chris Ryan FitnessFollow Chris on:InstagramLinkedinFacebookSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIs your greatest challenge in sport actually the story you’re telling yourself?There are so many athletes and teams that fall into the trap of pointing fingers and losing sight of responsibility. Jordan and Mariel unpack how avoiding accountability limits your growth and how shifting your mindset to one of ownership can unlock resilience, leadership, and ultimately, the legacy you’re capable of forging. In this conversation, we break down why taking responsibility is power. You’ll discover how responsible athletes elevate their teams, build trust, and turn setbacks into setups for greatness. We dive into practical ways to cultivate a growth mindset, turn criticism into fuel, and lead from the front, on and off the field. Whether you're an athlete feeling stuck, a parent wanting to nurture resilience, or a coach shaping future leaders, this episode gets real about the mindset shifts that make champions in sport and life. Choose accountability, and you flip the script to one of growth, loyalty, and high performance. If you’re committed to showing up as who you want to become, and leading your team with integrity and strength, this episode is for you. Jordan Owens is a seasoned hockey player and leadership coach, known for turning team chaos into cohesive unity through simple, powerful shifts in mindset. Remember: Sport reveals what needs to be strengthened. Are you ready to shape a legacy grounded in responsibility? Train your mind. Build your grit. Forge your legacy.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really take to go from a small-town kid with big dreams to competing on soccer's biggest stages?In this episode, former professional soccer player and World Cup veteran Jay DeMerit shares the remarkable journey that took him from Green Bay, Wisconsin, to the English football pyramid, the Premier League, international competition, and beyond.But this conversation isn't really about soccer.It's about embracing discomfort, trusting the process, and having the courage to bet on yourself when nobody else sees the vision.Jay opens up about turning down a full scholarship, moving overseas with no guarantees, navigating setbacks and rejection, developing confidence through preparation, and why some of the greatest opportunities in life come disguised as failures.We also dive into leadership, communication, identity beyond sport, the importance of community, and why today's athletes need to stop chasing outcomes and start focusing on growth.Whether you're an athlete, parent, coach, or someone pursuing a dream of your own, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and powerful perspective on what it means to build a life—and a career—one courageous step at a time. In this episode, we explore: • Why development shouldn't be rushed • The power of embracing discomfort and uncertainty • Confidence, preparation, and performing under pressure • Leadership and becoming the most relatable person in the room • Why failure is often redirection, not rejection • How support systems shape long-term success • The mindset that helped Jay compete at the highest levelTrain your mind. Build your grit. Forge your legacy. Check out Jay on Social Media at:https://www.instagram.com/d6merit/Support the show

Send us Fan MailAthletes will spend hours chasing improvement, overlooking the one thing that  sets the great apart: mindset. Still living his dream as a professional quarterback, Nathan Rourke knows this story firsthand and shares it with us this week on Forged Youth Podcast. Nathan opens up about his journey from Canadian high school football to NFL hopes, and then to CFL stardom. He shares how he learned to break down his goals into actionable steps, like acting as the athlete he wanted to become before he was there, and how this mindset built the grit that fuels him today. If you’re ready to elevate your confidence, embrace adversity as an advantage, and see performance as a reflection of your mindset, this episode is your playbook for life.You’ll discover:How to reverse-engineering your goals to build disciplineWhy confidence is a byproduct of action, not a feeling to chaseHow routine and preparation create consistency and trust in your abilitiesThe importance of separating your identity from your resultsPractical tools for emotional regulation that shift performance in secondsNathan reminds us that sport is a laboratory for leadership, resilience, and character... which a foundation for forging your ultimate legacy.Perfect for young athletes, parents eager to support without pressure, and coaches shaping future leaders, this episode will leave you inspired to think bigger about your potential and more grounded in the core habits that turn dreams into reality. Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support and community!Follow Nathan on: InstagramLinkedinSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if the thing holding your athlete back is what they're eating, how they're sleeping, and who they're spending time with?In this episode, Mariel sits down with Coach Elliot Allen, sports performance coach, former college football player, and founder of Eight Six Speed & Athletics, for a conversation packed with practical, no-fluff tools for teen athletes and the parents who support them.Elliot knows what it's like to have natural talent and still come up short. And he's spent years building the system he wishes he'd had at 16: simplified nutrition, smart training, solid recovery habits, and the mindset to stay consistent when it gets hard. In this episode, he breaks all of it down in a way that actually makes sense for families.In this episode, you'll learn:Why nutrition is the most undervalued piece of the performance puzzle and what "fueling for a purpose, not for pleasure" actually looks like day-to-dayHow to track your food the same way you track your training (and why it's the most boring, most important habit you can build)The truth about hydration: why electrolytes alone won't save you, how much water your muscles actually need, and what happens when you overdo itWhy sleep is when you actually get stronger and the specific habits (phones, TVs, bedtimes) that are wrecking your recoveryHow your environment and your circle shape your results more than almost anything else, and what to do if you're in a small town with no high-achieving athletes nearbyThe self-talk shift that took Elliot from wanting to quit his freshman year to finishing out and coming back strongerThe "5-minute rule" for processing hard moments without getting stuck in themThis one is as much for parents as it is for athletes. Practical, honest, and full of real talk from someone who learned most of this the hard way.About Coach Elliot Allen:Elliot Allen is a sports performance coach and founder of Eight Six Speed & Athletics, where he mentors teen athletes and their parents on speed, strength, nutrition, and mindset so they can set themselves up with the best chance to play at the next level.A former college football player, Elliot learned the hard way that talent alone isn't enough — and that experience drives how he coaches today. He helps athletes build the structure and discipline he wishes he'd found at a younger age, combining simplified speed work, progressive strength training, and athlete-focused nutrition to produce measurable performance results.As a father and coach, Elliot leads by example and stays committed to helping young athletes build the habits that separate them from the rest.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support and community!Check out Eight Six AthleticsKeep up with Coach Elliot Allen on:FacebookInstagramLinkedin Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it actually take to perform at your best without burning out, breaking down, or trying to squeeze yourself into a system that was never built for you?In this episode, Mariel sits down with Dan Mickle, Mental Performance Coach, Head Women's Volleyball Coach at York College of Pennsylvania, founder of Soul Performance Academy, and host of The MentalCast podcast, for a wide-ranging conversation that covers everything from breathwork and journaling to neurodivergent athletes, hustle culture, and why "mental toughness" might be the wrong goal entirely.Dan brings 30+ years of coaching experience and a deeply personal perspective on what it means to truly know your athletes. As a father of three neurodivergent children, a doctoral student researching coaching considerations for neurodivergent populations, and a former coach who once made his team do burpees during a timeout (his words), Dan keeps it refreshingly real throughout this whole conversation.In this episode, you'll learn:The three mental skills Dan carried from being a player into 34 years of coaching and why breathwork is the foundation of all of themWhy journaling doesn't have to be a page a day (and what a quick prompt in the parking lot can do for your growth)How to build intention into every practice and what deliberate practice really means Why neurodivergent athletes are just coping and what coaches can do differentlyThe difference between emotional control and emotional suppression, and why fighting your nerves wastes energy you needDan's take on why "mental toughness" misses the mark and what "mental flexibility" gets rightWhy the youth sports system is broken, who's responsible, and what it would actually take to fix itIf you're a coach, a parent, an athlete, or anyone trying to perform with more clarity and less chaos, this one's for you.Connect with Dan Mickle:FacebookInstagramLinkedInAbout Dan Mickle:Dan Mickle is a Mental Performance Coach, Head Women's Volleyball Coach at York College of Pennsylvania, educator, and founder of Soul Performance Academy. With over a decade of experience working with athletes, teams, coaches, and organizations, Dan specializes in helping performers build focus, confidence, emotional control, and sustainable high performance — especially for neurodivergent athletes and those who think and learn differently.In addition to coaching at the collegiate level, Dan is an adjunct professor in sport behavior and psychology and is currently pursuing his Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) with a research focus on coaching considerations for neurodivergent populations. His work blends science, real-world coaching experience, and practical tools athletes can use immediately.Dan is also the host of The MentalCast podcast, where he explores mindset, performance, leadership, and growth through conversations with coaches, athletes, and experts across disciplines. He has authored multiple books and created digital programs designed to make mental training simple, effective, and accessible.Whether on the court, in the classroom, or behind the mic, Dan's mission is to help people perform at their best without burning out, breaking down, or trying to fit into systems that were never built for them.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a Swiss national champion swimmer finally gets access to the mental tools that could have changed? That's exactly the question David Karasek sits with, and it's the reason he now dedicates his life to giving young athletes what he didn't have.David is a former competitive swimmer, Swiss national record holder, and Olympian who spent the final four years of his career swimming for the University of Virginia where he worked with the same sports psychologist who coached Michael Phelps. The mental tools he discovered there didn't just improve his performance; they rewired how he thought about competition, failure, and what it means to be a real athlete.In this conversation, David and Mariel unpack the mental performance toolkit that transformed his career and how you can start using it right now, whether you're 14 or 40. They cover conscious breathing techniques (including the exact method David used in competition, standing poolside next to Phelps), the right way to visualize before a race, why your brain is not a truth-seeker, and the real reason so many talented young swimmers crack under pressure.David also gets candid about what it felt like to be a late developer and why that actually became his greatest mental advantage. Plus, Mariel shares her own visualization framework built around skills, senses, and struggle, and both coaches get real about the phone addiction crisis that's quietly sabotaging the next generation of athletes.About David KarasekDavid Karasek is a former Olympic swimmer and Swiss national record holder. At 38, he brings nearly three decades of elite competitive experience to his work as a performance coach and mentor. David is the founder of swimpros.com, where he runs performance camps for competitive swimmers and an online mentoring program on Skool. Most of the mental tools he teaches were learned directly from the sports psychologist of Michael Phelps during his time swimming for the University of Virginia. David is married with one child (and a second on the way), and is based in Zurich, Switzerland.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support and community!Keep up with David on: FacebookLinkedInInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to coach athletes hurtling down an icy track at 140+ km/h and build the mental toughness to match? This week, Mariel sits down with Robert Fegg, Head Coach of the Canadian National Luge Team, for a conversation that goes far beyond sliding sports.Robert shares why he believes we're rushing youth athletes toward results at the cost of their long-term development, and what he's learned from decades of coaching across Germany, Canada, Korea, and the United States. From the start of his own luge career to guiding Team Canada at the 2026 Cortina Olympics, Robert brings raw honesty and hard-earned wisdom to every topic.In this episode, you'll hear:Why enjoyment is the #1 predictor of athletic success and why we're undermining itHow trust between coach and athlete has fundamentally shifted with Gen Z, and what coaches need to do differentlyThe pre-performance routine story that changed how Robert coaches every athlete individuallyWhat luge teaches us about learning to crash and why avoiding failure might be the biggest mistake in youth sportThe mindset shift required when transitioning from athlete to coachWhy Robert says it will take 8 years to build the Canadian Luge program into what it needs to be Whether you're a youth athlete, a coach, or a parent navigating the sidelines, this episode is packed with perspective on development, grit, communication, and what it truly means to give sport everything you've got.About Robert:Robert Fegg returned to Canada for his second stint with the Canadian Luge Team in the spring of 2022, this time to take the head coaching reins of the national program and guide the nation's best luge athletes into a new era.The German has lived in the Calgary area with his family since completing his first stretch with the Canadian program from 2003 to 2011. After two seasons as the Junior National Team coach for the United States Luge Association (2018–2020), Robert served as head coach of the American luge program before coming back to Canada, where he guided the team to the Beijing Winter Games.Coaching has been in Robert's blood since he wrapped up an eight-year career sliding on the German National Team in 2002. He cut his teeth in the coaching ranks the following year when he became the Assistant Coach of the Canadian Luge Team. After playing a key support role in developing Canada's luge athletes into medal winners for seven years, Robert took on head coaching responsibilities of the Junior National Team in Canada from 2010–14.Robert was recruited as National Team Coach of the Korea Luge Federation in 2014, where he led many new athletes toward their first Olympic Games at home while also building the team's competitive sleds. Following the 2018 Olympic Winter Games, Robert returned to North America for a four-year stint with the Americans.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support and community!Follow Robert Fegg: InstagramLinkedInSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to go from a multi-sport kid in New Brunswick to representing Canada on the international badminton stage, and then channeling everything you learned into helping the next generation of athletes perform at their highest level?In this episode, Mariel sits down with strength and conditioning coach and former national badminton athlete Luke Couture to talk about the moments that define an athletic career, the mindset tools that separate good athletes from great ones, and the science behind how to actually build a body that performs when it matters most.Luke shares the story of the one exhibition match that changed the trajectory of his life and what his mental state in that moment taught him about performance under pressure. He unpacks why comfort is the enemy of elite-level growth, how he eventually managed a serious spinal diagnosis through movement, and why the way most youth sports leagues are structured is, in his words, "complete nonsense."You'll also hear Luke break down:• Why 90–95% of athletes plateau and the uncomfortable truth about how to break through• The three biggest life lessons his move 5,000 km from home taught him• What he found in only 3 out of 100 athletes at one of the largest badminton clubs in the U.S. (and why it alarmed him)• The difference between peripheral and neural recovery — and why your "off days" might not be doing what you think• The daily meditation practice he hasn't missed in 3 years, and how it transformed the second half of his workday• Why "more is better" is one of the most dangerous beliefs an athlete can hold• How pre-performance journaling rituals prime the nervous system before competitionWhether you're a young athlete figuring out how to train smarter, a parent wondering if your kid is doing too much, or a coach looking for a sharper framework for long-term development, this episode is packed with insight you can apply immediately.About Luke CoutureLuke Couture consults with Olympic and international level athletes throughout North America and Europe. As a former national level athlete in Badminton, Luke represented Team Canada in over 30 countries, including winning a Pan Am Championship Gold Medal. Luke's hunger for athletic development and coaching led him to pursue several advanced certifications including the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), an Advanced Coaching Diploma (ACD), and a Graduate Certificate in High Performance Coaching and Technical Leadership (HPC&TL). Luke frequently engages in mentorships and ongoing education with some of the top sport practitioners in the world.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!🌐 Work with Luke onlineFollow Luke on FacebookFollow Luke on InstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailJedidiah Collins spent seven seasons in the NFL, but not before being cut 13 times.In this episode, Jed breaks down what it really takes to stay in the game when everything is telling you you shouldn’t be there. From building a performance identity (“Zilla”) to redefining failure as feedback, this conversation goes far beyond football.We talk about: Why winning has nothing to do with the scoreboard  How journaling can change your mindset (and your future)  The difference between being talented vs. being valuable  What young athletes need to understand about NIL and money  How to build confidence through self-talk and identity This is for athletes, parents, and coaches who want more than performance. It's for the ones who want longevity, growth, and real-life success beyond the game.About Jedidiah Jedidiah Collins spent seven seasons in the NFL as a fullback, but his journey was anything but secure. Cut 13 times before finally earning his place, Jed learned early that talent might get you noticed, but resilience is what keeps you in the game.At one point ranked the No. 1 fullback in the world, Jed measured success differently: through journaling, reflection, and growth.After football, he became a Certified Financial Planner® and founded Money Vehicle, helping athletes and students learn to Speak Money & Act Wealthy. He is also the author of Your Money Vehicle and the upcoming book Fourth and Goal.Today, Jed travels the country teaching his “Rookie to Veteran” framework to what he calls Business Athletes, those who understand performance extends far beyond the field.He proudly calls himself a “Great Failure,” redefining failure as First Attempt In Learning.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Check out Money VehicleFollow Rae on: FacebookInstagramLinkedInSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if the skills that make you great in your sport are the exact same ones that unlock success in life and business?In this episode, we sit down with Rae Irelan, transformational business strategist, speaker, and former professional dancer, to explore how discipline, identity, and creative thinking translate far beyond performance environments.Rae shares how spending the first two decades of her life in dance shaped the way she approaches growth, pressure, and execution today. From relentless training and high expectations to stepping into the entrepreneurial world, she breaks down the transferable skills athletes often overlook and how to actually use them.We dive into: How performance environments (like sport and dance) build discipline, resilience, and adaptability Why so many athletes struggle with identity when they step away—and how to navigate it  The shift from external validation to internal alignment How to think like a creator, not just a performer  Leveraging your unique story to build authority and impact The role of AI and modern tools in expanding opportunities for athletes beyond sport This episode is a powerful reminder that your your sport may just the beginning. The real advantage comes from how you apply what it taught you.About Rae IrelanRae Irelan is a transformational business strategist, speaker, and #1 international best-selling author. She is the co-founder of Evolved Podcasting and has been featured in Forbes and Entrepreneur Magazine. Rae helps visionary entrepreneurs amplify their authority, expand their impact, and unlock new revenue streams by blending creative leadership with smart AI-driven strategies.Her foundation was built in the dance studio, where she spent the first two decades of her life as a professional dancer developing the discipline, mindset, and performance skills that now fuel her work today.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Check out Evolved Podcasting Follow Rae on: FacebookInstagramLinkedInSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to stop trying to fit in and start standing out? In this powerful episode, we sit down with two-time Paralympic gold medalist, world champion shot-putter, author, and speaker Greg Stewart for a conversation that goes far beyond sport.Born without his left arm below the elbow and standing 7'2", Greg spent much of his life trying to shrink himself so others would feel comfortable. He chased belonging through basketball courts and volleyball floors, racking up accolades along the way, yet something was always missing. It wasn't until he stopped listening to external voices and started doing the inner work that everything changed.In this episode, Greg opens up about growing up feeling different, the moment he realized his athletic success meant nothing without self-love, and how transitioning to shot put became the catalyst for finally taking charge of his own life. He also shares why he believes vulnerability is the answer to most of the questions we're afraid to ask, and what it really means to trust yourself.We dive deep into:Why fitting in was actually pulling Greg further from fulfillmentHow sport teaches us to fail and why that's a giftThe difference between self-love and egoHow to have the hard, uncomfortable conversations that change everythingTeaching youth to tune into their bodies instead of the noise in their headsWhether you're a young athlete navigating identity and belonging, a parent watching your kid go through it, or someone who has spent years trying to fit into a box that was never meant for you, this episode will meet you right where you are.About Greg StewartGreg Stewart is a two-time Paralympic gold medalist, world champion shot-putter, author, entrepreneur, and one of the most powerful voices in Canada on vulnerability, resilience, and human performance. Standing 7'2" and born without his left arm below the elbow, Greg's life has never been about fitting in, it's been about standing out. Yet his path wasn't defined by medals or records at first. Growing up in small-town British Columbia, Greg grappled with identity, belonging, and the complicated emotions that come with looking "different." He spent years trying to shrink himself to make others comfortable, until he learned that the stories he was hiding were the very ones that could set him free.Greg went on to play university basketball, become a national champion, and eventually transition into shot put, where he discovered not just his sport, but his voice. In 2021, he won gold for Canada at the Tokyo Paralympic Games. In 2024, he defended his title in Paris. And in 2025, he cemented his place in history with a world championship in New Delhi.Today, he is the founder of Mindfulete, a speaking and coaching platform built on what he calls Mindful Vulnerability: the idea that true strength isn't about perfection but about owning your story, facing discomfort head-on, and choosing growth over protection. Greg's talks for corporations, schools, and communities explore the three principles at the heart of his life and work: Trust, Ownership, and Integrity (what he calls Life's Golden Standards).Greg is also the author of Stand Out, a children's book written in verse that traces his journey of growing up different and discovering confidence, courage, and community. He's currently writing the follow-up book, focused on teaching kids how to build habits rooted in those same golden standards.Visit Greg's WebsiteFollow Greg on: FacebookLinkedInInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when everything you’ve built your identity around suddenly gets taken away?In this episode, we sit down with Dallas Soonias, a former Team Canada volleyball player turned filmmaker, to unpack the reality of chasing elite performance, breaking down physically and mentally, and rebuilding from the ground up.Dallas shares how a career-altering injury forced him to confront more than just rehab and pushed him to face the parts of himself he had been avoiding for years. What started as a pursuit to “get back on the court” turned into a deeper journey through mindset, identity, and resilience.We dive into: The difference between being competitive vs. being consumed by it How injury became the catalyst for growth, self-awareness, and better performance Why being at 70% physically made him a better teammate and player The mental skills that separate athletes in high-pressure moments How to stay calm, focused, and effective when everything is on the line  What it really means to add value to a team even when you’re not playing  And how the lessons from sport translate directly into leadership, creativity, and life after sportThis episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes your biggest setback becomes the exact thing that elevates you if you’re willing to face it.About Dallas Dallas is a multi-talented actor who also writes, directs, and produces his own projects. His first short film, Frank Gets the Job Done, was commissioned by ImagineNATIVE Film Festival and TELUS Storyhive. He followed that by writing, directing, and starring in The Saint and the Bear.In 2024, Dallas directed the western short One Click and the TV series Renegade Fever. With strong ties to the sporting world, he is also proud to be the first male Indigenous athlete to represent Canada in volleyball.During the 2024 Summer Olympics, Dallas produced and hosted a segment for CBC Olympics, directed the Olympic opening, and worked as an analyst for CBC Sports covering volleyball.Dallas is Nehiyaw/Anishinaabe, registered with The Chippewas of Nawash, with close ties to his father’s band, Red Pheasant. He grew up off-reserve in Red Deer, Alberta.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis week on Forged Youth's Q&A episode, Mariel and Jordan are responding to a real post from a hockey parent, and it opens up one of the most common conversations happening in youth sport right now: should my kid be playing on more than one team?The short answer? It's complicated. And at 11 years old? Probably not.In this episode, we dig into what's really driving the push for more ice time, more teams, and more commitment at younger and younger ages, and what kids actually need to develop into great athletes and even better humans.Here's what we get into:→ The real cost of a 3-hour round-trip commute for an 11-year-old→ Why unstructured play is one of the most underrated development tools→ Deliberate practice: how to grow when you're the best player in the room→ Teaching leadership early and why it matters more than goals→ Following your kid's lead vs. knowing when to say no as a parent→ What recruiters and coaches are actually looking for beyond skillReal talk, just two people who've lived it from the ice to the coaching floor.Train your mind. Build your grit. Forge your legacy.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if one of the best environments for developing resilient athletes… had no structured practices, no yelling coaches, and no guaranteed success?In this episode, we sit down with Hippie Mike to explore what decades in skateboarding culture can teach us about athlete development, mindset, and long-term growth.Having taught thousands of athletes and helped shape some of today’s top pros, Mike shares why skateboarding creates a unique environment where failure isn’t feared but expected.And more importantly… embraced.We dive into: • Why falling is one of the most important skills young athletes can learn • How unstructured environments build creativity, resilience, and confidence • The role of mentorship vs. traditional coaching • Why too much structure can actually limit development • How athletes build self-belief by figuring things out on their ownThe best athletes are the ones who learned how to adapt, persist, and grow through failure.Whether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete, this episode will shift how you think about development, confidence, and what it really takes to improve.👤 About Hippie MikeHippie Mike has been immersed in the world of skateboarding since 1986 and has spent decades developing and mentoring athletes at all levels. Over the years, he has coached and influenced thousands of skateboarders, including several who have gone on to become top professionals in the sport.He is the owner of multiple small businesses, including HMI Skate Park in Hope, BC, where he continues to mentor and support the next generation of athletes in a positive, community-driven environment.Hippie Mike has also played a significant role in growing the skateboarding community through event leadership, having organized and run more than 350 skateboard events over the past 20 years. Among these is the long-running Hippie Mike’s Tour de Surrey, a decade-long series that became a staple in the local skateboarding scene.Through his work, he has remained committed to creating opportunities for young athletes to develop not only their skills, but also confidence, resilience, and a lifelong passion for the sport.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Send a donation to keep HMI Skate Park aliveSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat actually builds confidence in athletes?In this powerful conversation, Mariel sits down with  Shawnee Harle, Olympian, sport psychology expert, and one of Canada’s most respected voices in athlete development, to unpack the truth about confidence, identity, and the pressures young athletes face today.From Olympic teams to youth sport, Shawnee has spent decades helping athletes perform at their best while staying grounded in who they are beyond the scoreboard. In this episode, she shares practical insights on how athletes can build real confidence, how parents and coaches can support development without adding pressure, and why the most important lessons in sport often happen far away from the podium.Inside this episode, we explore:🏆 Why confidence isn’t something you “have” — it’s something you build 🧠 The difference between performance identity and personal identity 🔥 How athletes can respond to failure, pressure, and setbacks 👨‍👩‍👧 What parents and coaches can do to create healthier sport environments 🎯 Why long-term development matters more than early successThis episode is a must-listen for athletes, parents, and coaches who want to understand the mental side of sport, develop resilient competitors, and build confidence that lasts far beyond the game.Because sport isn’t just about winning, it’s about who you become along the way.https://www.shawneeharle.com/Support the show

Send us Fan MailHow do you motivate your child to give their best in sport… without making them lose their love for it? That’s the question Mariel and Jordan tackle in this Q&A episode.A parent of a swimmer asked how to motivate their child to swim as fast as they can while still enjoying the sport. It’s a challenge that nearly every sports parent eventually faces. Because at some point, the excitement fades. Early morning practices become harder, friends start doing other things, and the grind of competition and expectations starts to weigh on young athletes.In this conversation, we unpack the deeper truth about motivation and why trying to “force” it usually backfires, exploring how athletes build sustainable drive through identity, discipline, and reconnecting with their personal “why.”We also discuss the hidden factors that cause many young athletes to lose their spark, including burnout, pressure, and the mental barriers that coaches often don’t have the time or training to address.Tune in for practical strategies parents can use to support their athlete’s mindset without creating unnecessary pressure or expectations. Because the goal is to raise resilient humans who know how to handle adversity, take ownership, and continue growing long after sport ends.Train your mind. Build your grit. Forge your legacy.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if the path to your dream isn’t straight? What if it zigzags through setbacks, detours, risks, and reinvention?In this episode, we sit down with Ben Boudreau, a former professional hockey player and coach, to unpack what it really means to chase a dream for nearly two decades.Born into a hockey family, Ben grew up around the rink. But his journey wasn’t a typical “blue-chip prospect” story. He went undrafted. He stepped away from hockey. He pursued television and film. He worked at CBC. He waited tables.And then, on a free agent tryout he almost didn’t attend... his life changed.What followed was 900+ professional games across North America and Europe, championship wins, head coaching roles, life-changing risks, fatherhood, and a relentless commitment to the dream of one day lifting the Stanley Cup.In this episode, we dive into:Why there is no straight path to successThe courage it takes to bet on yourselfHow support systems fuel risk-takingThe difference between motivation and inspirationWhy character beats talent every timeWhat separates average players from great onesHow work ethic is developed — not inheritedWhy giving back builds real leadershipBalancing fatherhood with ambitionHow to handle self-doubt when the future feels uncertainBen shares openly about getting cut, getting back up, doubling down during uncertainty, buying a house during a pandemic without knowing if hockey would return and winning a championship because he refused to quit.Because in the end, success isn’t about the straight path, it’s about staying on the train long enough to see where it goes.👤 About Ben Boudreau"I was born into a hockey family. My father Bruce, a former NHL player then currently playing in Germany, was where I was born. It wasn't until I was 5 years old that I grew up in Niagara through my mother and father's divorce. I had a very normal childhood in the city of St. Catharines where I went on to pursue my education through Television and Film. Upon graduating and working at CBC downtown Toronto, my life took a big turn after signing a free agent professional hockey contract, which led to the last 18 years chasing my dream of trying to lift the Stanley Cup one day.Through the last 18 years I have amassed over 900 professional games of being on the ice or behind the bench. I won a championship in 2021 with the Fort Wayne Komets. I have two boys, 4 and 8, that were both born in Indiana and now currently living in Niagara, pursuing my dream of one day trying to lift the Stanley Cup." Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Check out Boudreau HockeyFollow Ben on FacebookInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to build a career and a life that lasts?Longevity. Identity. Resilience.In this special episode promoting the Building Resilience On & Off the Field event on March 5th, we sit down with CFL legend Sean Millington to talk about what sustains performance and what sustains a person.Known as “The Diesel,” Sean built a 13-year professional career through power, consistency, and grit. But behind the accolades was something deeper: a mindset built for endurance.In this conversation, we explore:The difference between short-term success and long-term impactWhy identity cannot be tied solely to sportHow adversity shapes characterThe responsibility athletes carry beyond the scoreboardWhat it means to build something that lastsHow young athletes can prepare for life beyond the gameSean shares openly about growth, maturity, and perspective and why the scoreboard can’t define who you are.On March 5th, Sean will bring this message live to the stage at:Building Resilience On & Off the Field 📍 Chilliwack Cultural Centre 🎟 Free event (tickets required)An evening designed to equip youth athletes, parents, and coaches with the mindset and tools to thrive long after the final whistle.Reserve your free tickets here!About Sean MillingtonSean Millington is a former Canadian Football League running back and one of the most respected Canadian players in CFL history. Best known for his dominant years with the BC Lions, Sean played 13 seasons in the CFL and earned a reputation for power, consistency, and grit, earning the nickname “The Diesel.”A two-time Grey Cup champion, Sean was named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Canadian twice and remains one of the top Canadian rushers the league has ever seen. Beyond his on-field success, Sean has been inducted into the BC Sports Hall of Fame and the Simon Fraser University Hall of Fame, recognizing both his athletic excellence and long-term impact on the game.Since retiring from football, Sean has continued to build his legacy as a broadcaster, actor, and mentor, using his voice to share lessons on identity, resilience, and life beyond sport. His story speaks to the importance of longevity, character, and building something that lasts far beyond the scoreboard.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to last 13 years in professional football?Consistency. Preparation. Leadership.In this special episode promoting the Building Resilience On & Off the Field event on March 5th, we sit down with former CFL veteran Angus Reid to talk about what truly builds lasting success.Angus spent 13 seasons anchoring the offensive line for the BC Lions - one of the most demanding and least glamorous positions in sport. No headlines. No spotlight. Just daily accountability and relentless preparation.In this conversation, we unpack:Why durability is a mindset before it’s physicalThe power of showing up consistently, even when no one noticesWhat leadership actually looks like inside a locker roomWhy preparation builds confidenceThe long-term impact great coaches have on young athletesHow doing the unseen work shapes who you becomeAngus shares lessons learned in the trenches about discipline, identity, and the responsibility athletes carry to leave environments better than they found them.On March 5th, Angus will be sharing this message live at:Building Resilience On & Off the Field 📍 Chilliwack Cultural Centre 🎟 Free event (tickets required)An evening designed to equip youth athletes, parents, and coaches with tools for resilience, confidence, and long-term growth.Reserve your free tickets here!About Angus ReidAngus Reid is a former Canadian Football League offensive lineman and long-time centre for the BC Lions, where he built a 13-year professional career defined by leadership, durability, and consistency.A two-time Grey Cup champion, Angus was a multiple-time CFL All-Star and served as a team captain, anchoring the offensive line and setting the standard for professionalism both on and off the field. Known for his work ethic and resilience, he became a trusted leader in one of the most demanding positions in football.Following his playing career, Angus transitioned into leadership development as a speaker, author, and mentor. He is the author of Thank You, Coach, a reflection on the mentors who shape athletes and leaders, and continues to inspire individuals and teams through lessons on preparation, accountability, and legacy.Angus’s journey highlights the power of showing up, doing the unseen work, and leading in a way that leaves others better.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat separates talented athletes from consistent performers? Psychological skill.In this episode of the Forged Youth Podcast, we sit down with performance psychologist Chris Bodman, founder of LMNTARY Performance, to unpack what it truly means to develop the athlete’s mind.Even the most physically capable athletes fail when they lack the mental tools to handle pressure, identity, emotion, and expectation.In this conversation, we explore:Why mental skills are they’re foundationalHow athletes tie identity to outcomes (and why that’s dangerous)The psychological cost of neglecting mental preparationThe difference between sustainable motivation and fragile confidenceHow to build emotional regulation under pressureWhy self-awareness is the starting point for growthHow parents and coaches can normalize the internal work required for performanceBecause if we train the body without training the mind, we leave potential untapped.👤 About ChrisChris Bodman is a Performance Psychologist and founder of LMNTARY Performance, a consultancy dedicated to helping individuals cultivate the athlete's mind — whether they compete in sport, business, or life.With a background working alongside elite athletes across multiple sports, Chris' work focuses on the intersection of performance psychology, behavioural science, and practical application — translating complex research into tools that work in the real world.Chris's approach is rooted in evidence but delivered with clarity. He believes the best insights aren't academic theories locked in journals, but practical frameworks that athletes can implement immediately. His philosophy: mental skills aren't "soft skills" — they're the foundation of sustainable high performance.Prior to founding LMNTARY Performance, Chris worked in elite sport environments where he witnessed both the transformative power of psychological preparation and the devastating cost of neglecting it. He saw talented athletes derailed not by lack of ability, but by inability to manage the mental demands of competition. He watched young performers tie their entire identity to results, leaving them vulnerable when outcomes didn't align with effort.These experiences shaped his mission: to democratise performance psychology and make it accessible beyond elite sport.Through LMNTARY Performance, Chris delivers the Limitless Programme — a 16-week cohort-based experience that helps individuals develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, sustainable motivation, and goal-directed behaviour. The programme combines psychology-backed frameworks with daily practice, helping participants build mental skills the same way they'd build physical ones: through consistent, deliberate training.Chris's work has supported company founders, competitive athletes, entrepreneurs, and individuals navigating career transitions. What unites them is a commitment to growth and willingness to do the internal work that external success requires.Today, through LMNTARY Performance, Chris is committed to equipping the next generation with the psychological tools they need not just to perform, but to thrive.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Check out the LMNTARY performance programFollow Chris on LinkedinInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if youth sports weren’t just about wins and losses, but about building resilient, confident young people?In this special episode, Mariel sits down with Bill Loewen of the Chilliwack Giants to talk about why March 5th is about far more than football.The Chilliwack Giants have been developing youth athletes in the Fraser Valley for over 25 years, offering spring flag football for ages 5 and up, fall tackle programs, and a pathway that transitions athletes into high school programs. But for Bill, coaching is about much more than the game.Bill shares openly about his own journey from being a talented but “lazy” high school player whose career was cut short by injury, to learning that talent only takes you so far. Work ethic, mindset, resilience, and controllables (effort, attitude, self-talk, preparation, focus) are what truly shape long-term success.That’s exactly why the “Building Resilience On & Off the Field” event was created.🗓 March 5th 📍 Chilliwack Cultural Centre 🎟 Free event (tickets required)This powerful evening will feature:Short, impactful talksFireside-style discussionLive Q&A with youth athletesA free copy of Angus Reid’s book Teenager: A Story About Finding Your Way for every attending athleteWhether your athlete plays football, hockey, baseball, volleyball, or any other sport, the lessons are transferable.If you’re in Chilliwack or the Fraser Valley, this is a night worth showing up for.Reserve your free tickets here!About BillBill Loewen is passionate about football, mentorship, and building strong community connections. For the past three years, he’s dedicated countless hours to coaching both flag and tackle football with the Chilliwack Giants, where he now proudly serves as Second Vice President. Bill believes that sports are about more than just winning—they’re about teaching resilience, teamwork, and confidence that carry young athletes through every part of life. Off the field, Bill works as a Project Manager, balancing his professional life with his favorite role: husband and dad. Together with his wife, Ashley, they are raising three incredibly active kids—Ella, a softball superstar, and two football-loving boys, Colby (11) and Josh (8), who share his passion for the game. Whether he’s drawing up plays or cheering from the sidelines, Bill’s greatest joy comes from watching kids grow—not just as athletes, but as people. Follow Bill on LinkedInSupport the show

Send us Fan Mail“Being hard on yourself” is worn like a badge of honour in youth sports, but what if it’s actually hurting performance?In this episode, Mariel Anderson and Jordan Owens unpack a powerful and often misunderstood topic for sports parents... especially hockey parents:The difference between healthy self-reflection… and destructive self-talk.Inspired by a conversation around Olympic coach Shawnee Harle’s “unpopular opinion,” they explore why many parents and coaches mistakenly praise athletes for being overly hard on themselves  and how that can spiral into what they call the Doom Loop.Inside this episode, you’ll learn:The difference between constructive self-evaluation and confidence-killing self-criticismWhat the “Doom Loop” is and how it impacts the body physiologicallyWhy negative self-talk tightens muscles, speeds up the heart, and destroys clear decision-makingHow to help young athletes call a timeout on spiraling thoughtsThe powerful 5-step Neutralizer technique to reset the nervous system mid-gameHow deliberate breathing (and a simple tongue placement trick) restores controlWhy nervous and excited feel the same in the body and how to reframe itHow parents can validate emotions without reinforcing mental spiralsIf your athlete: ✔️ Gets stuck in their head ✔️ Beats themselves up after mistakes ✔️ Struggles with nerves before games ✔️ Loses joy because of pressureThis episode gives you practical tools you can teach immediately even before tonight’s tryout.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if the most important part of practice isn’t the drill… but the first 10 minutes?In this episode, Mariel sits down with Rett Larson, an elite international strength and conditioning coach and the creator of the No Zombies training philosophy.Together, they challenge one of the most unquestioned traditions in youth and high-performance sport: the way athletes warm up.Rett shares why traditional warm-ups often create boredom, disengagement, and burnout, and how replacing mindless repetition with creativity, competition, and problem-solving can dramatically improve both performance and joy.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why traditional warm-ups are a missed opportunity for athlete developmentHow warm-ups can build speed, coordination, adaptability, and resilienceWhy fun and high performance are not opposites, they work togetherHow exposing athletes to failure on purpose builds confidence and bounce-back abilityThe difference between necessary repetition and mindless repetitionHow gamification and unpredictability increase effort and buy-inWhy practices that look “messy” often produce better long-term athletesHow parents and coaches can protect an athlete’s love for the gameThis episode is a must-listen for: ✔️ Coaches who want better energy, effort, and engagement ✔️ Parents concerned about burnout and loss of joy ✔️ Athletes who feel bored, over-coached, or mentally drained by trainingWarm-ups aren’t just preparation for practice. They’re preparation for how athletes think, move, compete, and respond to adversity.About Rett: Rett Larson is in his 5th year as the strength coach for the German Women’s Volleyball Team. Before his time in Germany, he spent seven years in China, first as Project Manager for EXOS-China, working with several Chinese Olympic teams in their preparation for the 2012 London Games, and later with the Chinese National Women’s Volleyball Team, which won both the 2015 World Cup and Gold at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.Following the Olympic gold medal, Rett worked for two years as the strength coach for the Netherlands Women’s Volleyball Team before joining Team Germany. Prior to his international work, Rett spent 10 years with Velocity Sports Performance, where he became the Director of Coaching at their headquarters in California.Rett is the creator of the No Zombies training philosophy, which strives to make training more stimulating, engaging, and developmentally beneficial for athletes.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Check out Rett's NoZombies Warm-up Video Library Follow Rett on: FacebookLinkedinInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if the biggest thing holding young athletes back isn’t effort, talent, or motivation, but where their attention lives?In this episode, Mariel sits down with Nathan Last, founder of Mental Grit, to unpack the mental skills that create better athletes and stronger humans.Nate shares how discovering sports psychology completely changed the trajectory of his life, and why presence is the foundation of mental toughness.In this conversation, you’ll learn:Why most goal-setting creates stress, anxiety, and burnout in youth athletesHow being stuck in the future or the past pulls athletes out of performanceWhy the body can’t tell the difference between imagination and reality, and how this backfires when athletes only dream instead of executeThe difference between what athletes need to focus on vs. what spectators and coaches focus onHow coaches can measure values and behaviours, not just stats and outcomesHow parents unintentionally steal confidence by “protecting” their kidsWhy struggle, failure, and hard conversations are essential for building self-beliefMental toughness isn’t something you achieve one day, it’s something you practice in the moment, every day.Nate is the CEO of a premier mental performance training firm, dedicated to helping individuals, teams, and organizations unlock their highest potential. With over a decade of experience in performance psychology, leadership development, and organizational transformation, he now specializes in creating customized strategies that drive measurable results for teen athletes and their families. As a contributing author of the Amazon Best Seller, Deliberate Discomfort, and a former Chief Engagement Officer at Mission 6 Zero, I’ve seen firsthand how a focus on mindset, culture, and people operations can revolutionize outcomes whether on the athletic field, battlefield, school house or in the boardroom.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Check out Mental Grit Consulting Programs Follow Nate on:FacebookLinkedInInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailVisualization is one of the most misunderstood and underused tools in youth sports.In this episode, Jordan Owens and Mariel Anderson break down what visualization actually is, why vision boards are just the starting point, and how elite athletes use mental reps to build confidence, consistency, and game-day readiness.You’ll learn:Why your brain can’t tell the difference between imagination and realityThe 3 S’s of Visualization: Skills, Senses, and StrugglesHow detailed visualization builds muscle memory and performance, even when you’re not physically trainingHow to prepare for pressure, mistakes, and adversity before they happenSimple tools athletes can use to calm nerves, channel excitement, and focus (including the “psychological sigh”)How parents and coaches can model calm, confident energy during tryouts and competitionWhether you’re a youth athlete looking to perform with confidence, or a parent or coach wanting to support mental development the right way, this episode gives you practical, repeatable tools you can start using today.Train your mind. Build your grit. Forge your legacy.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the showSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with former professional tennis player James McGee for a conversation about life inside elite sport and what comes after it.James shares his journey from growing up in Dublin as Ireland’s top junior player, to competing for over a decade on the ATP Tour and appearing in 14 Grand Slam events. Beyond the milestones, he speaks honestly about the less visible realities of professional tennis: long stretches away from home, financial pressure, injury, and the psychological weight of chasing a dream in a sport where success is narrowly defined.The conversation explores how injury forced James to confront identity beyond performance, how studying psychology shaped his understanding of himself and others, and what it means to transition out of professional sport when competition has been central to your sense of self for most of your life.We also discuss James’s current work mentoring underserved youth through the Inspiring Children Foundation, and how the lessons learned through elite sport now inform his approach to leadership, mental health, and long-term development.This episode is a thoughtful look at ambition, resilience, and what it means to build a meaningful life beyond results.James McGee is a former professional tennis player from Castleknock, Dublin 15, Ireland. He began playing tennis at the age of seven at Castleknock Lawn Tennis Club, where he developed a lifelong passion for the sport and spent his formative years training daily. As a junior, McGee rose to become the No. 1 ranked player in Ireland and captured the national Under-16 title at Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club. While attending Belvedere College, he won the school championships multiple years in a row, before relocating to Barcelona to pursue his professional tennis career.An early injury setback sidelined him for nearly two years. He later moved to the United States to compete at the collegiate level, playing two seasons for North Carolina State University while majoring in psychology, leading the team to its first-ever NCAA Elite Eight appearance. McGee spent over a decade competing on the ITF, ATP Challenger, and ATP World Tour circuits, reaching a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 146 in 2015 and serving as Ireland’s top-ranked player for six years.He represented Ireland 15 times in Davis Cup competition and competed in 14 Grand Slam events, qualifying for the main draw of the 2014 US Open. His tour-level wins include victories over Frances Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, and Denis Shapovalov. Following injuries that ultimately led to his retirement, James transitioned into youth mentorship and now serves as Director of the TEAM BRYAN program and the NO QUIT Tennis Academy at the Inspiring Children Foundation in Las Vegas, supporting underserved youth through a holistic approach to development.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the showCheck out James' Website Connect with James on:FacebookLinkedinSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really mean to support athletes as whole humans?In this episode, we’re joined by Will Lee, Registered Clinical Counsellor and Mental Performance Consultant, for a deep and grounded conversation about mental health, identity, culture, and performance. Together, we explore what often goes unseen in sport: the emotional load athletes carry, the pressure to perform, and the long-term impact of how mental health is addressed (or ignored).Will brings a rare blend of clinical experience and performance work, drawing from his decade of work in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, his role in high-performance sport environments, and his lived experience as a first-generation Taiwanese-Canadian. We talk about the difference between mental toughness and emotional suppression, why identity and culture matter in performance spaces, and how parents, coaches, and organizations can create environments that are both high-performing and human. This episode is a powerful reminder that sustainable performance doesn’t come from pushing harder, it comes from understanding deeper.About Will: "I am Registered Clinical Counsellor, Mental Performance Consultant and founder of Strive Counselling. At Strive, I serve as clinical supervisor and director to a wonderful intimate team of registered counsellors, where we help diverse clients address an equally diverse range of challenges - relationships, identity, mental health, trauma, addiction, to name a few. My clinical roots began over the span of a decade in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, where I learned to foster my sense of empathy and compassion for marginalized groups and humanity. As a proud first generation Taiwanese-Canadian, I am also passionate about fostering cultural humility in my practice, and to learn about the story of your culture and its connections with identity and wellness.Currently, I am a member of the Mental Health Network under the Canadian Centre for Mental Health and Sport; a nationally-led organization comprised of highly-skilled mental health professionals from across Canada. My current notable organizations that I am privileged to be a part of in my role as a mental performance consultant includes The Richmond Olympic Oval (High Performance Program) and FightStory; a non-profit organization advocating for combat sport athletes' mental health and wellness.When I’m not seeing clients, I enjoy an active lifestyle predominantly occupied by practicing martial arts, including Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I also enjoy creative expression through playing the violin with my music group, and I seek tranquility in tending to my freshwater aquariums. I am a proud father of 3 enthusiastic girls, and husband to an unconditionally supportive wife."Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the showCheck out Strive CounsellingConnect with Will on:FacebookLinkedInInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat do you do when your athlete feels set up to fail?In this episode, Jordan and Mariel unpack a real post from a hockey mom whose 9-year-old son is stuck on a struggling team and use it as a powerful entry point into one of the most important mindset tools in sport: controllables.Together, they break down the five controllables every athlete (and parent) can focus on when outcomes, coaches, team dynamics, or politics feel out of reach: effort, attitude, self-talk, preparation, and focus.This conversation is equal parts honest, practical, and reassuring with real stories from youth sports, elite athletics, and parenting. If you’ve ever felt frustrated watching your child struggle in a situation they can’t control, this episode will help you shift from helplessness to empowerment, and from pressure to perspective.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the thing you’ve built your identity around suddenly feels uncertain or is taken away altogether?In this episode, Olympian Andrea Wieland joins the conversation to speak honestly about the psychological side of competitive sport that athletes rarely get prepared for: getting cut, feeling overlooked, questioning your worth, and learning how to keep going when confidence takes a hit. Andrea shares her lived experience navigating high-pressure environments, setbacks, and moments where external validation disappeared, forcing her to confront who she was beyond performance.Together, the conversation explores how athletes can rebuild self-trust after disappointment, why resilience isn’t about toughness but adaptability, and how reframing setbacks can become a turning point rather than a breaking point. This episode is a reminder that sport doesn’t just test physical ability, it tests identity, mindset, and emotional regulation.Whether you’re an athlete facing rejection, a parent supporting a child through tough moments, or a coach trying to guide someone through uncertainty, this episode offers grounded insight into how growth actually happens when things don’t go according to plan.Dr. Andrea Wieland is an Olympian, performance psychologist, Founder of Winning Systems Psychology, PC, and former DI national and league championship coach who has guided thousands, from elite athletes to business leaders, toward lasting confidence and transformational performance. Having held leadership roles at institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania, IMG Academy, Sensei-Porcupine Creek, and the United States Air Force Academy, she fuses deep systems thinking with powerful self-mastery strategies. Andrea challenges performers to own their identities, redefine success beyond results, and become forces for good in every arena they enter. Her work invites us all to lead with purpose, play with heart, and contribute with courage on the field, in the family, and across humanity.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Check out Dr. Andrea's Mental Health and Performance ServicesFollow Andrea on:Facebook LinkedinSupport the show

Send us Fan MailFrom the outside, Adrien Plavsic had everything young athletes dream of: a long NHL career, Olympic success, and years competing at the highest levels of professional hockey. But internally, his experience was very different. In this episode, Adrien opens up about what it was really like to live in constant survival mode while performing at an elite level.He shares how fear quietly drove his training, games, and even recovery, keeping his nervous system stuck on high alert. Despite appearing confident and composed, Adrien describes feeling trapped in his own head, disconnected from the moments he had worked his entire life to reach. Sleepless nights, racing thoughts, and an inability to truly relax turned the dream into something that felt more like a nightmare.Together, this conversation explores the difference between performing from fear versus performing from presence, why so many driven athletes miss their peak experiences, and how over-control can actually block learning, growth, and freedom. Adrien reflects on his journey of rewiring his mind and nervous system, redefining his relationship with pressure, mistakes, self-awareness and why learning how to be, not just do, is essential for sustainable excellence.This episode is a powerful listen for athletes, parents, and coaches who want more than just results who want performance that feels grounded, free, and fully alive.Adrien Plavsic is a former NHL player who spent eight seasons with the St. Louis Blues, Vancouver Canucks, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Anaheim Mighty Ducks. A second-round draft pick in 1988, he won an Olympic silver medal with Team Canada in 1992 and later played many years in Switzerland’s top professional league. Today, he works as a Certified Mental Performance Coach, helping athletes regulate their nervous systems, reconnect with presence, and build lives rooted in freedom, excellence, and meaning.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Follow Adrien on: Facebook Linkedin Instagram Support the show

Send us Fan MailGetting cut is one of the rawest, most emotional moments in youth sports and for many families, tryout season feels more like heartbreak season. In this Q&A episode, Mariel and Jordan break down what really happens to an athlete’s confidence, identity, and motivation when they don’t make the team, and why a parent’s reaction in the first 10 minutes can shape everything that comes next.They share their own stories of being cut, the shame, the tears, and the turning points, while unpacking how to help young athletes process disappointment without spiraling into victim mentality. Instead of blaming coaches or shielding kids from discomfort, the episode digs into how to validate the pain and redirect it into growth, emotional regulation, and a clearer understanding of what being an athlete truly requires.This episode reframes being cut as an essential part of the athlete journey: a moment that can ignite self-awareness, leadership, accountability, and resilience when handled with the right mindset at home. Whether your child is devastated, angry, embarrassed, or ready to quit altogether, this conversation gives you the tools to anchor them, support them, and help them find their next step with confidence.If your athlete was recently cut or if tryouts are looming, this is the episode you’ll want to hear together.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailDr. Claire joins the podcast for a powerful conversation that every parent, coach, and athlete needs to hear. With a background in neuroscience, physiology, and youth mental health, she breaks down what’s actually happening inside the bodies and brains of young athletes and why so many are struggling with burnout, fatigue, chronic stress, and emotional overwhelm.Throughout the episode, Dr. Claire explains how sleep, screen exposure, stress hormones, and daily nervous system health play a larger role in performance than most people realize. She shares why kids today are showing up more dysregulated, more exhausted, and more anxious than previous generations and how that directly impacts their ability to focus, recover, perform, and adapt to sport.This conversation goes well beyond “mental toughness.” Dr. Claire offers a clear, compassionate look at how modern stress loads are shaping athlete development, why traditional coaching methods often fall short, and what adults need to understand about the brain-body connection if we want kids to succeed long-term.If you’ve ever wondered why your athlete can’t sleep, can’t calm down, can’t recover, or can’t seem to feel confident consistently, this episode gives you the science and the solutions in a way that finally makes it all make sense.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Daria Albers opens a window into what true high-level performance really requires. A world-class mental performance coach and former professional fighter, Daria works globally with UFC athletes, Special Operations Forces, and top-tier performers across sport and business. Her approach blends psychology, mindfulness, nervous system training, and embodied awareness into a style of coaching that is as grounded as it is transformative.Drawing from backgrounds in physical therapy, psychology, MBSR, MBCT, and systemic theory, Daria has built a powerful mental training system that helps people stay calm under pressure, sharpen their focus, and untangle the patterns that hold them back. Her work is rooted in values, responsibility, and presence, offering athletes a way to come back to themselves instead of constantly chasing outcomes or relying on forced “mental toughness.”Throughout the episode, Daria reflects on her own evolution from fighter to coach, a journey marked by discipline, humility, and a deep commitment to understanding the mind. She talks about the emotional and spiritual layers of performance, the importance of inner alignment, and why real confidence comes from awareness rather than suppression. Her perspective challenges the traditional model of pushing harder and instead invites athletes to train with clarity, curiosity, and heart.This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt stuck, burnt out, overtrained, or disconnected from the passion that once fueled them. Daria’s insights offer a new way forward that integrates science with humanity and teaches athletes to perform from a place of internal strength, not external pressure.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Check out Daria's Website Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this week's Q&A, Mariel and Jordan dig into one of the most confusing issues facing youth sports today: the blurry line between a firm, well-intentioned coach… and one who crosses into harmful territory.Throughout the episode, they dive into the pressures today’s coaches face, the rise of “old school” intensity, and the ways young athletes (especially girls) respond differently to certain coaching styles. Mariel reflects on growing up under a brutally demanding coach and how those high-pressure environments both shaped her resilience and revealed where the line gets crossed. Together, they talk through when discomfort becomes growth, when it becomes damage, and how parents can support their athletes without becoming over-involved.This episode is full of hard truths and practical guidance for anyone trying to navigate the realities of modern sport. Whether you’re a parent who’s unsure how to interpret a coach’s intensity, an athlete learning to advocate for yourself, or a coach striving to get it right, this conversation offers the perspective and nuance that’s been missing from the sidelinesJoin our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Dr. Joel Kerr breaks down what young athletes actually need to thrive and the answers may surprise you. He calls on parents to step into the role of “recovery coach”: creating a safe emotional environment, supporting real nutrition, and protecting sleep, rather than critiquing performance or chasing stats. He explains how the student athlete exists in a triangle alongside the coach and the parent, where all three need aligned goals and values to support healthy development Dr. Joel Kerr or as his athletes affectionally call him, "Dr. J" is an accomplished performance manual therapist, educator, and the visionary founder of BASE – Building an Athletic Structure for Exercise – a comprehensive clinical framework and educational system built to bridge the gap between manual medicine and performance care. With over 17 years of experience working with professional athletes, particularly within basketball, Dr. J has earned a reputation as a forward-thinking leader committed to redefining how clinicians and coaches assess, treat, and train the human body. Holding a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and over 5,000 hours of postgraduate training in Sport Neurofunctional Acupuncture, Dr. J brings a deep understanding of integrated systems, movement science, and evidence-informed care. His ability to seamlessly blend manual therapy, exercise prescription, and neurofunctional techniques has made him a trusted provider among pro athletes seeking longevity, recovery, and performance optimization. Beyond the treatment table, Dr. J is a passionate educator. He has served as a clinical instructor and mentor to hundreds of aspiring clinicians through continuing education programs, college courses, and private mentorship. In 2022, he co-developed the BASE curriculum alongside his wife, Dr. Claire Bacareza, with the mission to equip a new generation of manual medicine clinicians with the tools to observe movement, apply clinical reasoning, and intervene with purpose. BASE emphasizes passive and dynamic interventions, functional anatomy, movement literacy, and performance rehabilitation. BASE is not just a course—it’s a community. At its core, it supports the development of what Dr. J calls the “BASE Eye”: the cultivated skill of observing movement quality before intervention. This concept is central to the BASE system, which prioritizes effectiveness in real-world conditions, blending clinical experience, anatomical understanding, and human connection. The result is a powerful and flexible framework that enhances patient outcomes and builds clinician confidence. Dr. J's work has recently extended into international sport, where he is currently involved in building partnerships with Olympic organizations, athletic federations, and emerging sport performance hubs.Driven by purpose and guided by values of resilience, observation, and collaboration, Dr. J is on a mission to elevate the standard of care in performance and rehabilitation. He continues to build a "homeBASE" of clinicians, coaches, and movement professionals who are committed to learning the language of the body—and helping others return to, or remain in, motion.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Learn more about BASEFollow Dr. J on: FacebookLinkedin InstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mariel sits down with Brett Devloo, a blind skateboarder, sponsored athlete, and living example of what grit really looks like. Brett lost his vision at 16. But instead of giving up the thing he loved most, he got back on his board and refused to stop skating.He shares how he learned to trust his body without his sight, why losing his vision actually removed his fear, and how having the right coach and community changed the course of his life. Brett opens up about breaking his femur in a major skate accident, the brutal recovery process, and what it took mentally to get back on the board again.This is an episode about resilience, creativity, showing up on the days that feel impossible, and finding your way forward when the usual path doesn’t exist. If you need a reminder that you are capable of more than you think, this is it.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this Q&A, Mariel and Jordan break down one of the most common moments in youth sport: when an athlete feels like they’re “too good” for the level they’re training at or feels stuck in an environment that doesn’t match their goals. They share why there’s no such thing as wasted practice time, and how the mindset an athlete brings to each session matters more than the environment itself.From using lower-level reps intentionally, to the power of deliberate practice, to turning the car ride home into a supportive conversation instead of performance pressure, this episode gives athletes and parents real, practical ways to grow confidence and skill, no matter the situation.They also touch on visualization, how to keep sport fun, and why curiosity beats coaching when you’re a parent supporting your athlete.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mariel sits down with Andrew Marshall, a Certified Master Coach and 3rd-degree Jiu Jitsu Black Belt, to explore the mindset lessons that turn good athletes into exceptional humans. From his early years in baseball and football to finding his true calling in martial arts and coaching, Andrew shares how pain, injuries, and setbacks shaped his philosophy of growth. Together, they unpack the dangers of perfectionism, the balance between competitiveness and joy, and the importance of belonging over fitting in. Andrew’s story is a roadmap for athletes, parents, and coaches who want to build resilience, develop self-awareness, and create long-term success, both in sport and in life."I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, and have spent a number of years living on the Big Island of Hawai’i with my wife and son. Growing up, all I wanted to do was be outside and play sports. Baseball and football were my main focus. After high school, I turned to Jiu Jitsu, boxing, and MMA. Following a series of setbacks and injuries, I committed fully to Jiu Jitsu and began exploring coaching as my professional path. That journey led me deep into healing, mindset, and personal transformation. I immersed myself in meditation, spiritual disciplines, nutrition, physical therapy, functional strength training, and advanced coaching methods. Over time, I built a coaching practice focused on helping others embody their highest potential, not just in their professional performance, but as whole human beings. In my younger years, I struggled with mindset, physical health, and simply knowing how to take care of myself. I’m grateful now to offer others the kind of guidance I once needed, so they can live with strength, clarity, and alignment, and fully step into the truth of who they are." - AndrewJoin our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Get Andrew's FREE e-book!Visit Andrew's websiteFollow Andrew on:FacebookInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailProfessional horse trainer and coach Jim Greendyk joins Mariel this week to explore the mindset behind mastery in sport, work, and life. Jim draws from his experience in the world of high-level horsemanship to show how self-awareness, emotional control, and presence are the real foundations of great performance. Together, they unpack what it means to stay calm under pressure, why toughness without connection fails, and how athletes (and parents) can use mindfulness to build confidence that lasts. An Open Rider at the age of 20, Jim’s unparalleled talent, tenacity, and adaptability in the show pen has been proven time and time again, often beating competitors with many more years of experience. There is no doubt that Jim is a trainer who can really “get a horse shown."On the international stage, Jim can now say that many of those who were his idols are now his rivals. Always ready to learn from others, Jim has and continues to ride with some of the best trainers in the industry in order to further his knowledge year by year. This drive for success and knowledge is a large part of what brought him and his family to the Scottsdale area.Jim expects a very high standard of performance from himself and his horses and has timing and balance that many will never achieve. This uncanny ability has allowed him to rise quickly and consistently over the years to become one of the top Reining trainers in Western Canada. He didn’t end up at this level of excellence by accident. Since his start in the Porcupine Hills of Southern Alberta, he has taken everything taught to him and elevated it to the next level to move himself and his horses up through the industry quickly. Often, Jim can tease out a level of ability from a horse that others are not able to find.Jim has grown a huge international following by consistently sharing quality content on social media and he's developed a stellar online training program for those who can't make it to the barn. In this way he strives to reach more people with the best knowledge available.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Want to learn Reining but struggling to find a way to do it? Don't have a local trainer close enough to teach you? LOOK NO FURTHER  Jim's Reining Masterclass will take you from Sideline to Headline!Follow Jim on:FacebookInstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mariel and Jordan dive into one of the most debated topics in youth sports: should kids focus on one sport or play multiple? Pulling from real-life coaching and parenting experience, they unpack the balance between commitment and freedom, structure and fun. From learning how to teach accountability to knowing when it’s okay to miss practice, or even walk away from a sport, they explore what it really means to raise athletes who love the game and stay resilient.They also tackle how to know when to rest vs. push through, how visualization can be a game-changer during recovery, and the “don’t quit on a bad day” rule every athlete (and parent) should live by.🎙️ Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or parent, this one’s packed with the real conversations that help young athletes grow both in sport and in life.Join our free 'Forged Youth' Skool group for more parent support!Support the show

Send us Fan MailBefore Forged Youth became a movement, it started as survival.In this raw, unfiltered, and deeply human episode, Mariel Anderson, founder, athlete, and mental resilience coach, shares her origin story for the first time without filters.Growing up as a top-tier volleyball player, Mariel was introduced early to the power of mental training: visualization, emotional regulation, and focus. But at just 15 years old, everything changed when she was assaulted at a tournament, an event that shattered her world, derailed her athletic dreams, and forced her to rebuild her identity from the inside out.With striking honesty, Mariel talks about the years that followed: the silence, the shame, the struggle to find support, and how those same mindset tools she learned for sport became the lifelines that helped her survive trauma, navigate chronic pain, and ultimately reclaim her purpose.Now, as the founder of Forged Youth, she’s turning that pain into power, teaching athletes and parents the skills that saved her: how to train the mind, process emotion, and face adversity with courage.Joined by co-host Jordan Owens, this conversation goes far beyond sport, it’s about the cost of silence, the importance of safe spaces, and the beauty that can emerge when we stop hiding our story and start using it to help others heal.“I thought mental training was about winning games. I didn’t realize it would be what saved my life.” – Mariel⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussion of sexual assault, trauma, and recovery. Please listen with care and reach out for professional or community support if needed.🎧 This is the story that started it all.💬 Join the Forged Youth parent community → https://www.skool.com/forged-youth-legacy-within-3069/about?ref=dd034a1ae9fd48a7a54c83838cc4c219Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to bounce back when life (and sport) knocks you down? In this episode, David 'Jacko' joins Mariel to share powerful lessons on resilience, mindset, and confidence. From his own journey through challenges to coaching young athletes, Jacko breaks down what separates those who plateau from those who rise.We dive into why confidence built only on “winning” won’t last, how to reframe setbacks into growth, and the habits athletes (and their parents) need to support true mental strength. Whether you’re an athlete chasing big goals, or a parent learning how to support your child’s journey, this conversation is packed with insights you can use right away.David Jackson aka ‘Jacko’ is a Master Instructor with the Oxygen Advantage. A former professional rugby player, accredited UKSCA Strength & Conditioning coach, NASM performance enhancement & corrective exercise specialist on a mission to make breathwork a normal part of our everyday lives."In 2013 a traumatic brain injury and a seizure on the rugby pitch forced me to retire from professional rugby and also impacted my breathing patterns negatively for years. It can be simple day-to-day stress or poor habits that have built up over a long time that have changed your breathing patterns but what I know is that if I can change mine after my head injury you can improve yours too.During my professional rugby career, I wish we knew then what we know now about how breathing can massively impact and improve our performance. Now as a Master Instructor with the Oxygen Advantage, I work with clients ranging from fitness and sports enthusiasts looking to improve their sporting performance, to GP doctor referrals with clients needing to address stress and anxiety issues through breathing, and everything in between.My passion for sports and sharing what I wish I knew back when I played, has led me to work with professional athletes and teams in a variety of sports like rugby union, football, triathlon, mountain biking, swimming, athletics at national and international levels."  Follow Jacko on InstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mariel sits down with Jordan Owens to explore the lessons sport teaches far beyond the rink. From resilience and mental toughness to leadership and building strong relationships, Jordan shares how his hockey journey shaped his perspective on life after sport.He reflects on overcoming adversity, the importance of adaptability, and how athletes can redefine success for themselves once their competitive careers end. Packed with insights for athletes, parents, and coaches, this conversation is about more than sport... it’s about growth, identity, and leading with purpose.Jordan Owens is a former professional hockey player turned creative strategist, coach, and storyteller. After a 12-year pro career that took him across North America and Europe — including signing with the New York Rangers and playing in top leagues in Denmark, Germany, Italy, and the UK — Jordan now helps others develop the mindset, clarity, and discipline needed to pursue their potential, both on and off the ice.Through his company, Origin Creative, he works with entrepreneurs and organizations to bring ideas to life through strategy, storytelling, and digital tools. But at his core, Jordan is a communicator and mentor. Whether it’s through coaching, keynote speaking, or his YouTube channel A Tribe Called Owens — where he captures honest, human conversations — his goal is to help people better understand themselves, trust their voice, and take meaningful action.Jordan knows firsthand the challenges young athletes face — from pressure and self-doubt to the transition out of sport. His approach blends experience, empathy, and real-world tools to help the next generation navigate the journey with confidence and purpose.Check out Jordan's website! Follow Jordan on...FacebookLinkedin InstagramSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mariel introduces a new member of the Forged Youth team: former professional hockey player, Jordan Owens. After a 12-year pro career that took him across North America and Europe (including signing with the New York Rangers and playing in top leagues in Denmark, Germany, Italy, and the UK), Jordan now helps others develop the mindset, clarity, and discipline needed to pursue their potential, both on and off the ice. Together, Mariel and Jordan tackle real questions from parents about how to support their athletes without piling on extra pressure. From helping kids find their voice with coaches, to handling performance anxiety, to creating a healthy balance between sport and everyday life, this conversation gives parents practical tools to foster resilience, confidence, and joy in their athletes.Whether your child is chasing high-level goals or simply learning to love the game, this episode is filled with insights that help you step back, cheer loud, and raise strong, independent athletes.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful and personal episode, Mariel is joined by longtime friend and 5th-degree black belt Mike Blom, a dedicated martial artist and national-level competitor, who’s getting ready to represent Canada at the ITF World Championships in Croatia.From ninja turtles and Power Rangers to the intense, disciplined world of Taekwondo, Mike shares the deeply human side of martial arts. He opens up about what it really means to step into the ring, not just to fight, but to face yourself. Together, Mike and Mariel explore the mental fortitude required to keep showing up when you’re bruised, doubted, or afraid.🔍 In this episode, we dive into:🥋 Mike’s origin story in martial arts, and how he went from an uncoordinated kid to a 4-time Team Canada athlete🤯 What martial arts teaches about mental strength, humility, and getting back up after a loss💬 His go-to fight mantra: “No one can beat me”—and what that really means (hint: it’s not about winning)👊 How he handles pressure, chaotic opponents, and the unknown🧠 Why routines, self-talk, and learning to lose well are essential to success—not just in sport, but in life💡 Advice for young athletes and parents navigating fear, overwhelm, and competition burnoutYou’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll leave this episode with a deeper appreciation for the mindset behind mastery.🎯 Whether you're a coach, a parent, a competitor, or someone fighting battles of your own, this conversation is packed with perspective-shifting insights on resilience, emotional regulation, and the kind of quiet confidence that can only be forged through adversity.📣 Mike is funding his own trip to Worlds!!!  (Which is something many people don’t realize about amateur elite athletes. If you’re moved by this episode and want to support a true warrior on his journey, click HERE to go to the GoFundMe and help get him to Croatia.This is about more than medals. It’s about heart, legacy, and the courage to keep coming back, no matter the outcome.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Inside Volleyball Tryouts: Playing Time, Fair Play & Earning Your SpotIn this special episode, Mariel sits down in person with editor and longtime volleyball coach Kyle to dig deep into the real conversations happening around youth volleyball. From the evolution of "Fair Play" rules to the pressure of earning playing time, this candid discussion unpacks the growing tension between development and competition.Whether you're a parent wondering why your kid isn’t starting, or an athlete trying to figure out how to stand out at tryouts—this episode has insights for you.🔥 Topics include:Why “Fair Play” isn’t always fairHow private coaching is reshaping the gameThe life lessons kids should be learning from sportWhat parents might be missing about the value of playingIf you’re navigating the youth sports world, this one is a must-listen.Does your athlete have the skill, but still find themselves stuck on the bench? Parents tell us the hardest part isn’t the losses, it’s watching their child’s confidence and passion fade when they don’t get fair opportunities. At Forged Youth, we don’t just train skills, we build resilience, confidence, and clarity so athletes know how to thrive, even when the game doesn’t go their way. If you want your athlete to protect their confidence no matter how much court time they get, start with our free tools! Click the link below for mental toughness boosters. https://stan.store/Forged-YouthSupport the show