The Focused Athlete

S2 Episode 4: Resilience, selflessness and the path to MNTL VZN with Jazlen Green

In this episode, former Division I athlete and founder of MNTL VZN, Jazlen Green, joins the podcast to discuss her journey from high school basketball setbacks to competing at UC Berkeley and earning her master’s at San Diego State. Jazlen opens up about her experience with mental health, the power of self-advocacy, and the importance of selflessness in emotional intelligence. She also discusses the work she’s doing to bring mental health awareness and resources into schools and communities, while offering valuable advice for young athletes striving to balance their goals with personal well-being.

S2 Episode 3: Coaching the whole athlete and supporting the parent journey with Warner Athletics

In this episode, we talk to Melissa Warner and Steph Beall, longtime coaches and co-owners of Warner Athletics. Melissa and Steph talk about blending technical on-field training with the mental side of the game, and how emotional intelligence has helped them build stronger connections with their athletes. They share how creating personal mission statements, leading with values, and focusing on whole-person development have shaped their coaching philosophy. They also discuss their focus on parent education, the importance of the self-led journeys for kids, and how they manage stress while balancing the many roles they play in and out of sport.

S2 Episode 2: Establishing team values and embracing adversity with Tracy Joyner

In this episode, Sarah talks with Tracy Joyner, head coach of University of Oregon women’s soccer. Tracy shares her philosophy on leadership, the power of team values, and how consistency in everything you do leads to success. She also opens up about emotional intelligence, embracing adversity, and preparing athletes for life beyond the game.

S2 Episode 1: Being Your Authentic Self and an Empathetic Leader with Danette Leighton

In this episode, we talk to Danette Leighton, 30-year sports industry and corporate executive with experience serving both men’s and women’s professional and collegiate sports leagues and teams, as well as current CEO of the Women's Sports Foundation. Danette talks about being her authentic self and balancing her emotions throughout high level roles. She talks about how being an empathetic leader, being okay with making mistakes and not being afraid to say sorry has helped her within these roles.

Episode 16: Managing obstacles and emotional control with Michelle Brown

In this episode, we talk to Michelle Brown, Second Degree Black Belt, Bok Fu Do and CEO Gumsaba Fitness and Hit with Power.  Michelle talks about how martial arts has impacted her as a leader and athlete.  She talks about the importance of emotional control and managing obstacles…