HEATED CONVERSATIONS

Nutrition is always a tricky topic, especially in gymnastics and youth sports, where resources and education on proper nutrition are often lacking. Coaches may find it difficult to discuss with parents, as it can be a sensitive subject. However, nutrition plays a crucial role in an athlete’s performance, mental and emotional well-being, and overall success in training and competition.In this episode of Heated Conversations, registered dietitian Kerry Bair shares valuable insights on what nutrition truly means, offering definitions, practical advice, and ways for athletes and parents to educate themselves. Learn how proper nutrition can help athletes get the best out of their body, mind, soul, and spirit.Check out Kerry Bair’s website and social media for more resources, or work with her directly to help your athlete reach the next level!Website: https://www.foodforfuelrd.comInstagram: @thegymnastrdFacebook: The Gymnast RD

Join Ryan Roberts, Co-Head Coach of Georgia Gymnastics Bulldogs, and Xquiste Coach Eric Cali as they discuss everything bars! In this episode, they talk about the key elements needed to make a comeback, how to build proper bar techniques, and why having more than one circle is essential for success in gymnastics. Whether you're an athlete or coach, this conversation is full of valuable insights!Don't forget to check out our Instagram at @Heatedconvospod for exclusive clips and additional content.Enjoy the episode, and make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more exciting discussions!

In the summer of 2024, former Alabama gymnast Lexi Graber made a surprise appearance on the Heated Conversations Podcast, and fans were absolutely thrilled! Known for her incredible performances on vault and floor at the University of Alabama, Lexi opened up like never before in this candid interview.In this episode, Lexi discusses her journey from being a star gymnast to life after college athletics. From the pressures of competing at the highest level to finding her identity beyond gymnastics, Lexi shares her personal experiences, challenges, and the exciting new chapters she’s exploring post-gymnastics.We also dive into some fun moments from the podcast, including trivia games and lighthearted conversations with the hosts. This episode is a must-watch for gymnastics fans and anyone who loves hearing athletes' untold stories.👉 Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more in-depth interviews and exclusive behind-the-scenes content!#LexiGraber #HeatedConversationsPodcast #AlabamaGymnastics #Gymnastics #PodcastInterview #FormerGymnast #AthleteJourney

🔥 Extremely Passionate Head Coach of 3-Time Division 3 Gymnastics Powerhouse, Lauren Karnitz, Joins the Podcast! 🔥 We were thrilled to welcome Lauren Karnitz, Head Coach of the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Gymnastics Team, to the podcast in January 2024! 🏅 In this inspiring episode, Lauren shares her incredible journey from athlete to head coach, culminating in her leading UWO to become a 3-time Division 3 Gymnastics National Champion. 🏆✨ She dives deep into the lessons she's learned, her philosophy on coaching, and the challenges and rewards of building a championship-caliber program—all at the same school where she once competed as an athlete. 🎧 Tune in for a conversation packed with passion, perseverance, and insights from one of the top coaches in D3 gymnastics!

Whitney Snowden’s journey in gymnastics began in Ohio, where she was mentored by one of the most respected coaches in the sport, Mary Lee Tracy. Under her guidance, Whitney honed a deep understanding of the technical aspects of gymnastics, which laid the foundation for her own coaching philosophy. Now, as a coach herself, Whitney is committed to more than just teaching skills—she is a life changer. With a heart for each athlete’s unique journey, she approaches coaching with care and compassion, offering personalized guidance to help them reach their full potential. By blending technical precision with unwavering support, Whitney walks alongside her athletes every step of the way, empowering them to not only achieve their gymnastics goals but also build resilience and confidence that extends far beyond the gym.Her commitment to the holistic development of each gymnast makes Whitney a coach who truly makes a difference. Whitney Snowden brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as Associate Head Coach for the Mizzou Women’s Gymnastics team, having joined Head Coach Shannon Welker in 2022. Prior to her time at Mizzou, Whitney made a significant impact as a coach at Michigan State, where she helped guide athletes to new heights in their gymnastics careers. Now, as part of a dynamic coaching staff that includes Jackie Terpak and Lacey Rubin, Whitney continues to foster excellence in every aspect of the program—technical skill, mental toughness, and team cohesion. Together, this talented coaching trio is committed to shaping the next generation of gymnasts, driving the Tigers to compete at the highest level. Check out Mizzou’s 2025 schedule for an exciting season ahead: 2025 Mizzou Gymnastics Schedule.https://mutigers.com/sports/womens-gymnastics/schedule #MizzouGymnastics #TigerPride #GymnasticsExcellence

Mental Blocks Are Real—Especially This Time of Year As the season intensifies and the holidays approach, mental blocks can become more prevalent for both athletes and coaches. The anticipation of performance goals and the pressure to achieve can trigger stress and hinder progress. It's common for athletes to experience mental and emotional challenges, especially when juggling the demands of training and competition. Stacey (Goodrich) Herman, Founder of So Connected, understands these struggles deeply. So Connected is a unique space dedicated to supporting athletes and coaches in navigating the mental and emotional aspects of gymnastics that often aren't addressed during regular practice. Stacey and her team provide valuable tools to help athletes work through mental blocks, develop resilience, and maintain a healthy mindset. Whether at the gym or at home, the resources shared by So Connected empower athletes to continue their journey toward holistic success—both physically and emotionally. By fostering a positive and supportive culture, Stacey is helping shape a healthier, more connected experience for athletes and coaches alike. 💡 Want to learn more? Follow Stacey on Facebook to join her community, where she shares free tips, strategies, and resources to help athletes thrive. Let's work together to create a mentally strong, balanced, and successful environment—both in the gym and beyond! 💪 https://www.facebook.com/groups/Socostacey/ You email her at: [email protected]

As the 2024 college gymnastics season was kicking off, I had the unique opportunity to sit down with long-time coach Byron Knox. With decades of experience, Coach Knox has not only witnessed but has been an integral part of the evolution of college gymnastics. His legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of the sport, and his contributions have helped shape the history of collegiate gymnastics in ways few others can claim. A true pioneer, his insights into the sport, the challenges faced, and the moments that define its legacy make him an invaluable figure in the gymnastics community—one whose impact stretches far beyond the competition floor.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Co-Head Coach Ryan Roberts to discuss all things Gymdogs and the University of Georgia. Ryan and his coaching staff boast impressive accolades across the sport of gymnastics, spanning the developmental, NCAA, and Olympic levels. Ryan serves as Co-Head Coach alongside Cécile Canqueteau-Landi, who is not only a former developmental coach but is also renowned as Simone Biles’ coach and an Olympian herself. With such an experienced staff, UGA is certainly in good hands! * I DO NOT OWN THE IMAGE IN THE COVER OF THIS EPISODE

Gustavus Head Gymnastics coach, Aryn DeGrood and I had a great conversation at the beginning of the 2024 season, where we discussed the vision she has for the team. I know it has been a while since I last posted and this episode was during the 2024 season but the insights can still relate today. Please enjoy!

I had a chance to sit down with All American recent Alabama graduate student athlete Lusia Blanco, where we discussed her journey leading her to the 2024 Paris Olympics. It was great to hear the authenticity she has for the sport, her support system and her opportunity to grow within the sport.

Passionate about his team, both staff and athletes alike is the way to John Operates with his team! He loves what he does!

Prior to the 2024 Season I had the honor to speak with Newly Hired head gymnastics coach at PITT Casey McPherson. I am excited for you to tune into the awesome episode.

SEC Freshmen of the Year 2024 University of Georgia GymDog Lily Smith Joins the podcast. It was great to sit down and talk to her about what it looks like to be a Student athlete at UGA and what she is is excited for in the coming year.

Dr. Meg Crowley, Head coach of Centenary Gymnastics program and talks about, what she looked forward to prior to the 2024 season. The episode was filmed prior to season but it gives good perspective bout Dr. Crowley and the School. If you would need more information about how to help with Pelvic floor feel free to contact her. Email: [email protected]

It was such an honor to have Nick Ruddock on the podcast, where we dove into some ways to help all coaches improve the way they approach vault! He also talked about his story and some of the lessons he learned along the way! If you would like more from him, head to his website- https://nickruddock.com where he has course and trainings that can help you and your athletes develop better culture and techniques on skills.

Episode 2 with Perfect 10.0 PT Brandi Smith. we dive into core and back exercises that will help keep your athletes healthy. Check out these core exercises she mentions in the episode. Plank 101 https://www.instagram.com/tv/B_QzQI8jMuW/?igsh=dmkxdW91ZXljY2h1 Leg Lift Progression https://www.instagram.com/reel/CzUGG_rpXbY/?igsh=Z3BvZmltdGF4MXlw Shaping https://www.instagram.com/tv/B_GMRHpDU0U/?igsh=ZTNpY3c3Z2g0YWJz Plank 201 https://www.instagram.com/p/BhKYT_dgb2t/?igsh=em9iZjJzb2MwdjFr You want more access to Brandi Smith and her material, look no further. https://www.perfect10ptacademy.com

JH Consulting's founder Jill Hicks joins the podcast. We discuss her knowledge of college gymnastics recruiting process from the perspective of being an athlete and coach at the collegiate level. Jill speaks of her going through the process herself with her own kids and how that all shapes the way they work with athletes. Now some may have certain feelings about these gymnastics recruiting consulting groups, but rest assure Jill talks about how she bridges the gap with both club coaches and collegiate coaches alike. Tune in to find out what questions should be asked and JH consultings process to helping gymnast get recruited. Learn more in their website: https://jhicksconsulting.com

Perform Happy and Complete Performance Founder Rebecca Smith Joined the podcast earlier this year to discuss Mental blocks in athletes and solutions for athletes, coaches and parents to help athletes with the mental side of the sport. She shares many tips and nuggets that can help take your coaching to the next level and to foster a great environment. She has her own Podcast where she has conversations with coaches and athletes to share their journey and tips they have learned along the way. Website: https://completeperformancecoaching.com Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7qWQQpnv6UIFCMwgDZnwDb?si=29a9bd11dc004a33

Sarah Korngold joined the podcast prior to the 2024 season to discuss Ascend gymnastics, olympics, Womentum, steps to developing gymnast and olympic training with Shilese Jones. Sarah along with Cleo Washington are the clinicians who run Womentum camp which is an extension of Best Darn Gymnastics camps. From website:Are you ready to take your coaching skills to the next level? Look no further than our transformative workshop led by Cleo Washington and Sarah Korngold. We will focus on equipping coaches with the tools to excel in spotting, and explore creative approaches to get the job done. We firmly believe that successful coaching is not solely dependent on physical strength; it’s about knowledge, technique, and passion. We will demonstrate that proper progressions and innovative methods can empower coaches of all body types to successfully guide and support their athletes. Join us as we celebrate the strength and creativity of women in coaching and unlock the limitless possibilities for your journey. You can find information about the clinic in the link below. Womentum Camp:https://bestdarngymnastics.com/womentum/

Perfect 10.0 Physical therapist Brandi Smith and I discuss some great topics centered around Pre habilitation exercises for gymnast to do each day that can help them avoid injuries. We discussed how loading the wrist has not been properly taught and some solutions we all can add to what we are already doing. Multiple times during this interview Brandi state "it's not what we are doing, it is how we are doing it". Rethinking the way we do things is a way we can find resolution to the injuries we may be facing. Brandi discusses how bridges should be done every practice for all levels of gymnast but doing them with legs bent and thinking about using the chest to lift the bridge rather than legs. She also talks about using bands to help facilitate and communicate proper alignment and positions when doing these exercises and our basics. Here are some more information about Brandi and some learning material you can use in your daily practices. Free Training: www.Perfect10PTAcademy.com Yoga Nerve Flow Dynamic Warm Up https://www.facebook.com/share/v/jbNB1yuiRp8e58Xe/?mibextid=WC7FNe Invincible Athlete: https://perfect10physicaltherapy.com/products/ Check out her Facebook page and Instagram for more education and videos: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1726513627747695 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perfect10pt?igsh=NDltZGo4M3FreXVk

I bring you a different perspective in this episode. We tie in faith and life lesson coming from Pastor Dave Miller, who Pastor's at Tree of Life Church in New Braunfels, Texas. He also is a coach for ProSkills San Antonio travel basketball organization, a Husband, Father, brother and son. We discussed his upbringing and how that shaped him to be the man he is today and the lessons he learned fro his childhood that transformed the way he mentors the youth and his own children. Enjoy this episode!! Audio is from Spotify, Tree of life Worship and Youtube, Tree of Life Church. I do not own rights to the music or video clips. Album: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2GguWL8wD2ZYUIVjv1aN8m?si=wNEMzVoJTzit20r7wefiMA Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TreeofLifeChurchNB/playlists https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4jc5un53Ks5KuQTiipwOSLSgzXmcXhIz Websites: https://treeoflifechurch.org/ https://nikeproskillssatx.com/

Meredith Paulicivic, the Head Women's Gymnastics Coach at The Ohio State University, recently joined the podcast. As a former Ute athlete and coach, she shared her journey of earning the position of Head Coach at OSU through her personal experiences and the guidance of mentor coaches. Integrity is a fundamental value for her and her team, one that she encourages everyone to maintain without compromise. Tune in to enjoy this engaging conversation, and don't forget to rate the podcast and explore previous episodes! Website: https://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/sports/womens-gymnastics. Photo credit: Ohio State University Gymnastics Facebook!

Head Coach Kerrie Turner in her 17th season leading Bowling Green State University, is a very passionate person about the sport of College gymnastics. She talks about the influences on her and the amazing people that help mold her as a coach. Enjoy this episode and check out the links to find ways to support the program. Website: https://bgsufalcons.com/sports/womens-gymnastics Support Team: https://falconfunded.bgsu.edu/project/26604

On the heels of Conference Championship weekend Dana was in her supporting role for her sons senior prom and Chi O Parents weekend with her daughter and senior prom but a shout out to the Legendary SEC Championship winning coach Dana Duckworth. She transitioned from the arena to the boardroom in 2022. The first coach ever to win the SEC Championship in her first year as head coach in 2015 and then again on the heels of a global pandemic in 2021.  Join me for Diving with Dana!

Back in December, the Head coach of the University of Wisconsin Division III school, Jessie DeZiel joined me for a conversation about her journey to becoming a head coach. The midwest native has kept her career as an athlete and coach in the Midwest. She was a National team member and cornhusker before beginning her coaching Journey. Jessie is excited for the opportunities as she completed her 3rd season with the Blugolds.

We have current #9 Ranked University of Denver head gymnastics coach Melissa Kutcher on the podcast. At the time of this episode published March 16th, 2024 they had just obtained a big road win against #10 ranked Michigan. Melissa accredits so much of Denver's success during her tenure as head coach to her support staff, not just those who coach the athletes. Teamwork is a big thing for her and her program; having them be a part of history in the making makes Denver the place to be. Thanks for tuning in, if you would like to follow their journey head to the website link below and give them a follow on social media. Website: https://denverpioneers.com/sports/womens-gymnastics Instagram: @denver_gymnastics

Passion just flows from Co-Head Coach of the University of California Bears Justin Howell as he talks about his staff, athletes, and purpose for coaching. Finding a way to make a disadvantage into an advantage is something he has done during his career as an athlete and now as a coach. The CAL gymnastics team is currently ranked #3 in the NQS College Gymnastics rankings as they just won the Big 12 Conference Championship. Justin credits his Co-Head coach and Wife Liz for so much of his success as a coach and how the program has done over their time together at Cal and is excited to hopefully be one of the final 4 teams at the National finals this 2024 season. Follow them on social media as they contend for Regional Title and National Title. To learn more about Cal Gymnastics head to the website link below. Website: https://calbears.com/sports/womens-gymnastics Instagram:calwgym

#4 Ranked The University of Florida Assistant gymnastics coach Own Fields joins the podcast for a great conversation. Owen is in his 9th season with the gators under Jenny Rowland. Owen loves his job at Florida and you can hear his passion for this team and staff in this episode. We dive into his friendships, lake Owen, coaching college and Elite, and the reasons why he coaches. Nebraska was a place where he was able to develop his skills under Dan Kendig as a college coach as well as time at Lake Owen in Wisconsin which is now closed. He met a great friend and a fellow club coach in Minnesota Ben Tobler and talks about their relationship. Check out the gators on Twitter and Instagram, and watch them on the S.E.C. network as they compete in this 2024 season. Twitter: @GatorsGym Instagram: @gatorsgym Schedule: https://floridagators.com/sports/womens-gymnastics/schedule

Gymnastics Doc Ian Crider joins the podcast to have a great conversation today. Dr. Ian Crider is a physical therapist specializing in keeping gymnasts healthy, happy, and safe! He was a gymnast for 16 years (including 4 years of NCAA) and has been a coach for 15 years. Now as a PT, he helps coaches with their planning and programming, parents take care of their gymnasts better, and gymnasts with their injuries and limitations. We discuss many different topics related to gymnastics development. Ian talks about how periodization in training plans is very important to set up athletes properly with intentional de-load weeks to prevent overuse injuries. We also discuss how different types of stretching are important. The way we may think about our sport can be different after this conversation. If you want the Gymnastics Doc to come to your gym or over Zoom to train your staff, check out the website below and follow his Facebook group page: Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/675633509568766/ Website: https://www.elevate-sp.com/

Brett Wargo coach at Ascend Gymnastics in Washington and Co-Founder of Best Darn College Camp, joins the podcast to discuss gymnastics. The reasons and the whys of his coaching and passion for education for other coaches and opportunities for gymnasts to get to the next level. If you're interested in the products he has been a part of creating, or want to sign up for any of the Clinics he and his staff are a part of, check out the websites below. Also camp information. Best Darn College Camp: https://bestdarngymnastics.com/events/best-darn-college-camp/ Womentum: https://bestdarngymnastics.com/womentum/ Training: https://bestdarngymnastics.com/training/ Products: https://bestdarngymnastics.com/marketplace/ Instagram: @bestdarngymnastics @wargo.brett @ascendgymnastics Also follow on Facebook.

Nittany Lion's Head Gymnastic Coach Sarah Shire joins this week's podcast for a great conversation. She is in her 7th season as Head Coach of the program. Sarah was a stand-out student-athlete at the University of Missouri! Sarah's passion for her students' journey drives and motivates her daily to coach, lead, and walk alongside her student athletes. Check out their social media and website to learn more and to follow their season schedule. https://gopsusports.com/sports/womens-gymnastics/schedule/2024 Instagram: @pennstatewgym

It was an honor tohave John Roethlisberger on the Podcast! Full of wisdom and life lesson from his life that we all can learn from.

Joining the podcast for a conversation is Scotty Bauman, Head Gymnastics Coach at Southern Utah University located in Cedar City Utah. Soctty enters his 31st season with the Thunderbirds and has been a pioneer in the sport of gymnastics in Utah. Scotty coach with such passion and freedom and loves to really help his athletes become great women and developing gymnast. Ray Corn was the Head Coach of Utah State University who was a mentor to Scotty, Ray has now passed God rest his Soul, and Scotty shared how Ray impacted the way he would coach and the type of coach he wanted to become. He speaks so highly of the academic standards that the team holds and the University. Follow the Thunderbirds 2024 Gymnastics season below: https://suutbirds.com/sports/womens-gymnastics/schedule/2024 Instagram @SUUGYM and SUUGYMNASTICS

I am so honored to have our first current student athlete on the podcast in Fighting Illini Gymnast Mia Townes. Mia is from Austin Texas and is a grad student and Gymnast at The University of Illinois Champagne. In these episodes we dive into the gymnast as people, their process to getting to the school they currently are at, their purpose, and the experiences of being a student athlete as said University/college. Mia talked about her club gym, her college team, and her setback due to injury and also gave some advice to both current collegiate student-athletes and future student-athletes to consider. Thanks for tuning in. You can follow Mia and the Fighting Illini season at the link below. https://fightingillini.com/sports/womens-gymnastics/schedule/2024 Also, give her a follow on social media @mtownes_ on Instagram.

It was an honor to talk with Head Gymnastics Coach Lorraine Galow of the University of Bridgeport on this episode of heated conversation. We discussed how she uses her trials through injuries to help her athletes. She discusses the mentorship under Byron Knox former head coach at the University of Bridgeport and now Head Coach at Southern Connecticut State University. Check out the website below to learn more about the gymnastics program and its competition schedule. Website: https://www.ubknights.com/sports/wgym/index

Head Coach Kim Parsons Valenti joins the podcast. Woodward camp was a place where Kim was able to get an amazing gymnastics education and to network with wonderful people. We discuss how being the Head Coach at Ursinus feels like family and is a place where students can come and feel cared for while having a great college experience. Urisunus is located in Collegeville Pennsylvania, a private school near Philadelphia. Many of the athletes are on academic scholarships being a division 3 school where athletic scholarships are not granted. Ursinus has a 93% acceptance rate into medical school. Check out their website below: https://ursinusathletics.com/sports/womens-gymnastics

Former 1996 Mens Gymnastics Olympian, two-time World Championship Team member 1995 and 1997, and founder of Flip Fest Gymnastics camp joins the podcast. We discussed the evolution of Flip Fest, his family lineage of actors, and how entertainment is a part of all of our lives. I hope you enjoy this episode. If you want to be a coach or an athlete at Flip Fest camp in Crossville, Tennessee check out the link below. https://www.flipfest.com/

We have a good episode right here. Ever think, I am running out of Ideas to challenge my athletes? or How can I help them improve their mental strength? Is there a way to improve their overall awareness of the sport? Does failure lead to success? Well this episode talks and addresses these questions. Cognitive Guru, he goes by on Instagram, Jason Fulco, a former lacrosse player from the New Jersey area who now resides in Arizona, where he trains athletes in 5 Cognitive functions. 1. Brain Speed- Your ability to process information 2. Decision Making- How well do you make a decision in any situation! 3. Focus- How long can you pay attention? 4. Memory- Do you recall what you saw or heard? 5. Auditory and Visual Reaction- How well do you react based on what you see or hear? We also discuss that failure is part of the process and that there must be a level of failure to learn and challenge a person. Walking alongside these athletes is something that Jason is very passionate about and to helps mentor athletes and even coaches in his methodologies. Jason grew up playing every sport and every game, being the child who would go door to door to see if people wanted to play and he made the connection that he has a passion for people. He also had some mentors who helped develop him personally and what to be that for others. If you are interested in working with the Cognitive Guru, Jason Fulco you can check his information below, and mention you heard about it from the Heated Conversations Podcast. He does online training for both athletes and coaches where he teaches His methods. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonfulco?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfulco?_t=8i0FHglBlko&_r=1 Website: https://wwwjasonfulcocom5.godaddysites.com/ Hope you enjoy the episode.

Cornell University Head gymnastics coach Melanie Hall joins the podcast. She has been part of the university for over 2 decades in some capacity. We talk about her love for the skills she did on the uneven bars both when they were close set and when they became wider. She has a love for olympic weightlifting that we also discussed and many more. Enjoy this episode.

Off to Williamsburg, Virginia, we went on this Episode, where I sat down with Head Coach Kelsey Hinton and discussed the College of William and Mary's School, culture, and gymnastics program. We discussed how this campus is a great fit for those looking for a division school with a smaller campus and more intimate class sizes. Her athletes have embraced her and is looking to continue to be a light for other African American coaches and head coaches in college gymnastics. They Open up the 2024 Season @ Clemson on January 12th at 7:00 P.M EST. Check out their Gymnastics schedule and Website below. Website: https://tribeathletics.com/sports/womens-gymnastics Schedule: https://tribeathletics.com/sports/womens-gymnastics/schedule/2023-24

What an episode this one was. It was filled with many emotions as the announcement of the Lindenwood Gymnastics program being cut after the 2024 season. The will power the gymnast possessed to go out and perform at their public intrasquad was a remarkable feat of courage that had Catelyn and her staff in disbelief. They had a choice to take time to process the news but yet they turned to the better in savoring the moment like it is going to be their last. Lindenwood needs our support at this moment. We as a community can make pledges to help at least have a conversation with the powers to be to see this program get another chance at life in the future. Below is how you can pledge. Lead by a leadership committee of parents, former athletes, and those who love Lindenwood and gymnastics. Check out the website to see how you can do your part to support if you feel led to do so. https://savelindenwoodgymnastics.com/

Head Coach of the Simpon College Thunder, Emily Barrett Payne joins the podcast. We discuss her start to coaching and how she and her husband are duo head coaches of the new Gymnastics men and women programs at Simpson College

Division 3 Assistant Gymnastics coach of the powerhouse Gymnastics program at the University of Wisconsin Whitewater Warhawks, Chloe Edgren Joins the 20th Episode of Heated Conversations. It was a special episode for me, seeing a former athlete become an assistant coach at her Alma Mater. Her dreams of becoming a division one gymnastis turned into a division 3 champion due to giving a late visit to the campus with an open mind. Subscribe, Like, Comment, and Share for more. Enjoy the episode. Website: https://uwwsports.com/sports/gymnastics

West Chester's head gymnastics coach, Barbara Cordova, joins the podcast and talks about her time as head coach at her alma mater. Being able to become the head coach at the same program you went to is one that not many coaches get the opportunity to do, and to be there to watch the progress of the sport of gymnastics at WEST CHESTER. The love Barbara has for the town of West Chester and the support they give to the University are some of the reasons she enjoys coaching the Rams Gymnastics program. If you want to know more about the team, head to their website below and follow them on social media. https://wcupagoldenrams.com/sports/womens-gymnastics Instagram: @wcugymnastics Barbara Cordova: EMAIL [email protected] PHONE 610-436-3215 Assistant Coach Stephanie Stephens

New Head Coach of The University of Wisconsin-Stout has named KJ Wheeler Head Coach for the 2023-2024 season. She Joins the podcast today to talk about her journey to this point. How gymnastics coaching has allowed her to travel the world and coach various athletes. She informs us about the incredible academic opportunities Stout has to offer. She reveals that they have hired their staff; you can go on the website to find out who they hired.

Head Coach Kasey Crawford of the University of Wisconsin Lacrosse Joins the podcast. We discuss the standard of division 3 gymnastics and that they are competing for the same athletes divisions 1 and 2 are recruiting. The smaller campus allows for a better relationship with professors but in a community that embraces the University. Part of the W.I.A.C gymnastics conference. UW-Lacrosse UW-Stout UW-Whitewater UW-Eau Claire UW- OshKosh Hamline University (MN) Gustavus (MN) Winona (MN) Website: https://uwlathletics.com/sports/womens-gymnastics Competition Schedule: https://uwlathletics.com/sports/womens-gymnastics/schedule/2023-24

Head Gymnastics Coach of The Auburn Tigers joins the podcast this week. We discuss his upbringing, coaching mentors, and the gymnastics team. We dive into what Suni Lee meant to the program and how Derrian Goobourne's influence impacted the community.

Peng Peng Lee joins the podcast to discuss her journey to college from club and Canadian national team and how UCLA became her home that she never knew existed. The teammate that inspired her to travel across the world to experience college gymnastics. Great parents and coaches supported her throughout her injuries. A coach in Miss Val who taught her so much about herself and launched her into becoming a National champion in a year she thought she would hang up the Leotard forever. Now she is an Icon and is persuing her dreams. TikTok, Instagram @pengpenglee

Naya Howard, Sophomore Gymnastics for the Georgia Bulldogs, joins the podcast to discuss this upcoming season. Naya feels the culture is excellent at Georgia Gymnastics under the leadership of Courtney Kupets Carter. She is thrilled she chose the Bulldogs and sees them as candidates for NCAA national contention this coming 2024 season.

Legendary Former Head Coach Valorie Kondos Field of UCLA Gymnastics joins the podcast and discusses life after coaching and her time as head coach at UCLA.  Going from no Gymnastics experience to winning national championships and creating an Identity, we know how UCLA is there to perform. She took her dance knowledge to college gymnastics and involved the fans in each performance.  She covers topics like the State of Gymnastics in the USA and how their team worked through the traumas that some group had experienced.  She also reveals the Secret Formula to how they won the 2018 National Championship.  The constant learning she strives to maintain is one of the things that made her a great coach.  Here are some of the routines from the 2018 Season: Peng Peng Lee Nationals Beam: https://youtu.be/iD2xcEC0c9o?si=C5qmQKy2IDIf2nnV Kyla Ross 2018 Bars https://youtu.be/rem15xGSbEQ?si=1HiJ-1Hes1Gq9szq Katelyn Ohashi 2018 Floor  https://youtu.be/ViIRMalortg?si=7Ru9UrsbRKcktDfL The Hunt: Gymnastics 2018 Wins NCAA Championship https://youtu.be/CqgO3ya0zs0?si=ZSx_lBisyTXyQXKw Miss Val's Book:  Life is short, Don't Wait to Dance: https://a.co/d/cfB6BKE