Pressing Forward Podcast: Recent Episodes
Pressing Forward
Host, Nowoola Awopetu, a former Division I athlete at Villanova University, speaks on different topics relating to the student- athlete population, mental health, and faith. The platform aims to empower individuals to use their experience's and setbacks as stepping stones towards greater achievement.
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Attitude shapes every aspect of our lives, and will dictate how far you go in life. Your outlook of life impacts not just yourself but the people around you. How do you frame what happens to you? Learn more by listening to the full episodes.
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Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
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In today’s episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, we explore one of the most important questions you’ll ever face: Will you choose fear, or choose to rise?
Life presents us with countless crossroads—moments where fear tries to hold us back, distract us, or convince us to shrink. But those who succeed aren’t fearless; they simply choose to rise in spite of fear.
Host, Nowoola, breaks down how to recognize these defining moments, how to build the courage to persist, and how choosing to rise transforms your future. If you’ve ever felt stuck, hesitant, or overwhelmed, this episode will give you the mindset shift you need to move forward with confidence and conviction.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
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In this episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, we explore the transformative power of the one percent mentality—the idea that small, consistent improvements every day compound into massive results over time.
Steven breaks down how breaking big goals into smaller, actionable steps makes them achievable, sustainable, and less overwhelming. From improving your fitness to advancing in your career or personal growth, the one percent approach teaches you how to build momentum, stay consistent, and embed habits that last.
Whether your goals feel daunting or distant, this episode will help you understand how daily progress—even tiny improvements—creates extraordinary outcomes.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
Send us Fan Mail
In this episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, we explore the power of asking the right questions—a skill that can transform networking, interviews, and personal relationships.
Steven breaks down why the type of questions you ask determines the depth of the responses you receive. From closed-ended versus open-ended questions to thoughtful interview techniques, we discuss how intentional questioning can help you stand out, connect authentically, and build meaningful relationships.
Whether you’re navigating career opportunities, mentorship, or personal connections, this episode will show you how to ask questions that leave a lasting impression and unlock deeper insights.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
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In this episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, we dive into one of the most overlooked skills in athlete development: honest self-assessment. Whether you’re a youth athlete, college athlete, or competing professionally, your growth depends on your ability to evaluate your game with truth—not ego, not excuses.
Host, Nowoola, reflects on his own college experience of being benched, receiving tough feedback, and realizing that talent alone wasn’t enough at the next level. We talk about film study, identifying weaknesses, leveraging your strengths, embracing hard coaching, and pushing past “cruise mode” to reach your full potential.
This episode will challenge you to look in the mirror, confront your gaps, and commit to getting better—not bitter—when adversity hits.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
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In this episode of the Pressing Forward Podcast, we dive into the reality of resistance—the inevitable force that shows up when you’re chasing a dream, vision, or goal. The difference between those who succeed and those who fall short often comes down to mindset. When you choose to embrace resistance as a stepping stone rather than a setback, you unlock your true potential. Before you even set the goal, decide that challenges will come—and make up your mind to meet them with resilience and tenacity.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
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This week on The Pressing Forward Podcast, we unpack Proverbs 3:5–7 and discuss what it means to trust God in the midst of life’s storms. When we place our confidence in Christ’s sovereignty, we find peace even when things don’t go as planned.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
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In this week’s episode of the Pressing Forward Podcast, we discuss the importance of cherishing the moment and being fully present where you are. In a fast-paced world that constantly pushes us to do more, we often forget to slow down and appreciate the simple things life offers. This conversation is a reminder to pause, breathe, and find meaning in the now.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
Send us Fan Mail
In this week’s episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, we explore the powerful principle of collaboration over competition. True success isn’t about outpacing others—it’s about building meaningful relationships and working well with people. We discuss how those who rise in life often do so by creating mutually beneficial connections, fostering trust, and embracing teamwork that drives growth and opportunity.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
Send us Fan Mail
In this episode of the Pressing Forward Podcast, we explore the simple yet powerful act of kindness. Just like a seed, one kind gesture can grow into something much greater—shaping lives, inspiring others, and creating a ripple effect of hope. We discuss how to live as a light in the world, the impact of small acts of compassion, and why choosing kindness is one of the most powerful ways to lead and uplift those around you.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
Send us Fan Mail
In this episode of the Pressing Forward Podcast, we dive into the power of thought and the importance of nurturing your vision—even when it feels small. Just like a mustard seed, greatness begins in humble beginnings. We explore how your mindset shapes your future, the role persistence plays when life "punches you in the mouth," and why reframing your thoughts can transform setbacks into stepping stones. Whether you’re chasing a dream, navigating doubt, or building faith, this conversation will remind you not to despise small beginnings.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
Send us Fan Mail
This week’s episode unpacks the phrase “Start Small and Build,” coined by my college defensive backs coach, Ola Adams. He shared this reminder with us almost every day to emphasize the power of breaking things down into small, actionable steps—steps that lead to steady growth and meaningful progress over time.
Where in your life can you apply this principle? Start today by taking one small step. What feels minor now will compound into something greater in the future. Keep pressing forward toward your dreams, goals, and purpose!
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
Send us Fan Mail
In this episode of the Pressing Forward Podcast, we dive into what it truly means to position yourself for success as a student-athlete. Too often, athletes get caught up in the grind without asking the most important question: Why are you here?
We break down how to define your own meaning of success, recognize the opportunity of a lifetime, and set SMART goals that actually move you forward. We’ll also unpack the tough but necessary sacrifices you must make early on, the importance of expanding your network, and why taking care of your mental health is just as vital as your physical game.
Beyond performance, we talk about developing an identity that lasts long after the game, and cultivating patience when life throws storms your way. Whether you’re just starting your college career or preparing for life after sport, this episode will help you refocus, realign, and press forward with clarity and purpose
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
Send us Fan Mail
In this week’s episode, we examine how personal standards function as the foundation for both achievement and daily practice. The discussion highlights how young athletes can apply this principle to foster growth and enhance their performance.
FOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcast
Stay connected and never miss an episode:
📸 Instagram | @pressingforward
🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3
🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify
🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts
🌐 Website | pressingforwardperformance.com – Explore blog posts, resources, and athletic services designed to help you strengthen your performance both on and off the field.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share to help us keep Pressing Forward!
Send us a Text Message.
"After 31 years on the marketing faculty, including nine as chair, Bill Danko achieved emeritus status in 2007 at the School of Business, State University of New York at Albany. During his tenure, he focused on studying consumer behavior, particularly wealth formation. He is the coauthor of "The Millionaire Next Door," a research-based book about wealth in America that has been a New York Times bestseller for more than three years. More recently, he coauthored "Richer Than A Millionaire: A Pathway to True Prosperity," a book that demonstrates how to build wealth with a greater purpose in mind." - (Albany.edu)
I came across his book after a coach of mine at Villanova University recommended and gave me the book to read. I was greatly enriched by the information and knowledge shared in the book , and decided to have Dr. Danko as a guest on the podcast. While this episode is longer than usual, it is packed with a wealth of information.
You can find Dr. Danko's book on Amazon in the link below
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000547HR?k=the%20millionaire%20next%20door&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_l_k0_1_8&crid=3E1LGWWR9PHEN&sprefix=the%20mill
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This week's episode features Loli Gomez, Sports Performance Coach, and Former Division 1 WBB athlete at San Diego State University. In this episode, we dive into Loli's incredible journey from a Division 2 to Division 1 athlete, exploring the challenges and triumphs along the way. Starting with an introduction (0:50-4:32), Loli shares her transition experience as a transfer athlete (4:32-7:15). The narrative takes a dramatic turn as Loli recounts a life-changing car accident (7:15-13:00), reflecting on how this traumatic event, which she now views as divine intervention (Snippet 9:50-11:08), drastically altered her life's direction.
Loli's story also highlights the importance of a strong support system (13:00-15:04) and reveals profound insights about the people who stood by her during tough times ( 13:00-14:51). She emphasizes the necessity of doing the work (15:04-16:14), sharing the biggest lessons learned along her journey.
As the episode continues, Loli discusses what helped her cope during life's low points (16:14-18:18) and underscores the significance of building positive self-talk and self-esteem (18:18-19:10). She offers an essential note for parents on how their words shape their children's confidence (Snippet 18:18-19:10).
Finally, Loli outlines her life goals and mission (19:10-21:59), wrapping up the episode by sharing where listeners can find and support her (21:59-End). Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with resilience, support, and empowerment.
Follow Loli on all socials:
INSTAGRAM: | @livinwithloli
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INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
TWITTER | https://twitter.com/pressingforward3
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
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This weeks episode we speak with Simone van de Kraats ( @simonevandekraats_ ), World Champion/ European Champion and Olympian. In this episode , she delves into her experience as a professional athlete and how she finds balance amidst varying responsibilities.
0:00- 1:09 Introduction
1:09- 3:44 How she started in water polo
3:44-7:25 important aspects in excelling in the sport
7:25- 10:03 Importance of having hobbies outside of your sport
10:03-11:37 How being an athlete impacts other areas of life
11:37- 13:00 Aspirations and goals she has for the future
13:00- 14:27 Building chemistry and camaraderie with teammates
14:27- End
Follow Simone on all socials:
INSTAGRAM: | @simonevandekraats_
LINKEDIN:| Simone van de Kraats
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INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
TWITTER | https://twitter.com/pressingforward3
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
This episode features Serenity Douglas, Sports Anchor at KYTXCBS19, University of Texas Track & Field Alum.
Serenity, an 8-time All-American and 2-time Big 12 champion in track and field from the University of Texas (#HookEm), brings her passion for sports and storytelling to every episode. With a bachelor's degree in corporate communications and a concentration in sports media, Serenity gained valuable experience interning for Longhorn Network during her college years.
When the pandemic granted her an extra year of eligibility, Serenity seized the opportunity to launch her own podcast, "Let's Talk About It," where she explores the human side of sports. Alongside her podcasting endeavors, Serenity's talent caught the attention of FloSports and Milesplit, leading to freelancing opportunities covering track and field.
After graduation, Serenity joined the OrangeBloods team as a beat reporter for Texas Athletics, but her journey didn't stop there. She embarked on a new adventure in Rhinelander, WI, where she now covers local sports and the Green Bay Packers, bringing her passion for sports reporting to a wider audience.
Driven by her own experiences as an athlete, Serenity is committed to giving athletes a voice beyond their stats. Join her as she shares stories, insights, and interviews with athletes
Have you ever wondered how the children of athletes carve their own paths in the world of sports? Talia Edmonds, a volleyball star with roots at Michigan State and a flourishing journey at the University of Hawaii, joins us to unveil the pivotal role her parents, both former college athletes, played in her athletic and personal development. Our conversation traverses her competitive upbringing, the intense discipline and sacrifices demanded by her Division I endeavors, and the transformative power of parental support, which she only fully recognized in retrospect.
Athletics at the collegiate level come with a unique set of hurdles, and Talia's narrative exemplifies the quintessence of resilience. From navigating the initial shock of college competition to the struggle of reclaiming her identity post-injury, Talia's candid testimony serves as a beacon of inspiration. Her evolution from a self-doubting freshman to a commanding team captain underscores the essentiality of a nurturing support system and a shift in perspective for those grappling with the intersection of sports, self-worth, and recovery.
In a profound reflection on identity and faith, Talia opens up about the soul-searching prompted by her injury-induced hiatus. This episode extends beyond the court, delving into how athletes confront the daunting questions of life beyond their sport, the role of faith in their journey, and the importance of cultivating a support network inclusive of coaches and mental health professionals. With aspirations to champion mental health in sports through a PhD in clinical psychology, Talia's ambition signals a commitment to empowering the athlete in us all, regardless of where we find ourselves on the path to self-discovery. Join us for an episode that transcends the typical sports story, tackling the multifaceted challenges athletes face and the remarkable personal growth that can emerge from adversity.
Follow Talia on all socials:
INSTAGRAM: | @wiztalifa
YouTube: | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClTmHpFcGPJ2jHVnxDNlZzA
FOLLOW THE Pressing Forward Podcast:
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
TWITTER | https://twitter.com/pressingforward3
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
This episode, we sit down with, All- American Sprinter and school record holder in the 60M and 100M at University of Iowa, Kalen Walker. He talks about his journey from Eddyville, Iowa, to overcoming injuries, and maintaining a mindset to thrive through adverse circumstances.
Follow Kalen on all socials:
INSTAGRAM: | @kalenwalker13
YouTube: | https://www.youtube.com/@kalenwalker13
FOLLOW THE Pressing Forward Podcast:
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
TWITTER | https://twitter.com/pressingforward3
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
On week's this episode of the podcast - we sit down with Tom Mihok, Executive Director, Banker at J.P Morgan Private Bank. We discussed topics pertaining to personal finance including budgeting, investments, insurance, credit and more!
Tom was a professor of mine at Villanova University where he taught personal finance and also currently teaches MBA courses at University of Massachusetts. Tom is an expert at resume optimization, compensation negotiation and other career advisory services .
Find Tom Mihok and the services he has to offer by CLICKING THE LINK BELOW!
https://www.tommihok.com/
Be Sure to LIKE , SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EPISODES!
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INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
On week's this episode of the podcast - we explore how the lack of accessibility , the fear of seeking help, & financial barriers play in mental health concerns within marginalized communities.
As an Afro-Latina bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, Sheila works with many members of marginalized communities to talk about their unique experiences and to break down barriers and stigma around mental health. Sheila works with clients to help them define their life stories and to begin seeing and living their lives as they want.
Find Sheila Arias and the services she has to offer by CLICKING THE LINK BELOW!
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/sheila-arias-new-york-ny/846952
Be Sure to LIKE , SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EPISODES!
FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE THE Pressing Forward Podcast:
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
Anxiety disorders affects 40 million adults , ages 18 and older every year.
On this week's episode, we sit down with Neuroscientist, Author, International Speaker, Founder, Researcher, & Meditation Teacher, Dr. Nicole Tetreault, as we explore the benefits mindfulness offers with anxiety, its origins, and how it can impact the brain positively.
Introduction (0:00- 2:15)
How She Was Introduced to Meditation (2:15- 4:42)
How Mindfulness Guides Her Work (4:42- 8:37)
What is Mindfulness (8:37- 10:43)
How Mindfulness Impacts the Brain (10:43- 14:30)
What Mindfulness Actually Looks Like (14:30- 20:06)
How It Helps With Anxiety (20:06- 21:05)
Her Book (21:05- 23:27)
One Suggestion to Audience (23:27- End)
Keep up with Dr. Tetreault :
- Her book, "Insight into a Bright Mind", explores groundbreaking research examining the experiences of unique, creative, and intense brains through interviews, storytelling, and literary science, while advocating for new directions of human diversity and neurodiversity.
- For more on her background and her work, visit her website
https://www.nicoletetreault.com/
- Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/awesome_neuro/
- You can also find her on Psychology Today, and other therapy listings
For the visual episode , check it out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK6OGbjxT980gZYAFKnlRLg
Be Sure to LIKE , SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EPISODES!
FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE THE Pressing Forward Podcast:
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
We kick off Season 3 of the Pressing Forward podcast as we sit down with @dr.okosi_psych, and explore how generational trauma can impact a person's ability to heal.
Introduction (0:00- 1:20)
What is Generational Trauma? (1:20- 7:00)
How Environmental Factors Shape Us (7:00- 12:19)
Comparison & Perfectionism (12:19- 15:47)
Tips/Recovering from Trauma (15:47- 21:40)
How tradition and culture impact generational trauma (21:40- 24:32)
Message to Parents in Shifting the Narrative ( 24:32- 28:02)
Slight Banter (28:02- 28:50)
One Piece of Advice to Audience (28:50- 30:00)
Resources She Offers (30:00- Ending)
Dr. Mercedes J. Okosi is a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed Clinical Psychologist in New York City. She is the Clinical Director of the Safe Mothers, Safe Children at NYU McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research, a clinical research project for parents with posttraumatic stress disorder. Dr. Okosi has experience treating populations with a range of complex and co-morbid psychological disorders and socioeconomic stressors. Her primary interest is trauma in marginalized populations, in addition to psychodynamic psychotherapy, severe mental illness, personality disorders, and global mental health.
Dr. Okosi is co-founder of the Coalition for the Advancement of Nigerian Mental Health (CANMH) which aims to raise awareness, encourage dialogue, and provide mental health resources to those at home and in the diaspora. She is also author of "The Complex PTSD Journal: A Guided Journal to Help You Heal, Grow, and Thrive" and "Mental Health Journal for Black Women."
Keep up with Dr. Okosi :
- www.growthworkpsych.org for therapy referrals and "The Reunion" generational trauma card deck
- Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/dr.okosi_psych/ and https://www.instagram.com/weare_canmh/ [nonprofit]
- You can also find her on Psychology Today, Therapy for Black Girls, Headway and other therapy listings
For the visual episode , check it out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK6OGbjxT980gZYAFKnlRLg
Be Sure to LIKE , SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EPISODES!
FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE THE Pressing Forward Podcast:
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
On this week's episode, we sit down with founder of MetaNu and Mental Skills Advisor, Vincent Duffy, to discuss how he overcame the yips, finding his purpose, and ways of building self- confidence. He extensively shares his philosophy, and insight on the 3 F's , "Forgive, Forget, Forward".
(0:00- 3:25) Introduction
(3:25- 9:05) Overcoming the Yips
(9:05- 11:07) Finding His Purpose After ACL Tear
(11:07- 14:13) Forgive, Forget, Forward
(14:13- 16:05) Meaning of "Victory Lies in the Non- Obvious"
(16:05- 19:29) Ways of Building Confidence in Yourself
(19:29- 25:08) Difference between Being Your Biggest & Critic
(25:08- End) One Piece of Advice
FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE THE Pressing Forward Podcast:
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
"What will they think?" A question that remains a stumbling block and holds many back from pursuing their dreams. If I said I'm not guilty of the same thought at times, I'd be lying.
However, in my short existence , I've come to learn that putting others opinions as the centering voice of your life serves no purpose and can even detract you from your purpose. When you know what it is you want, GO FOR IT, not for anybody else but for you! The things we end up regretting most in life are the chances that we didn't take.
Simply put, GO FOR IT! Even if you're nervous, scared, just put one foot in front of the other and you'll learn as you go. Share this episode with a friend, help somebody get moving!
If you feel compelled to, LIKE , SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EPISODES!
FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE THE Pressing Forward Podcast:
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/
SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwR
APPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
This week's guest is Dr. Nancy Graber, Sport & Performance Consultant, and Licensed Mental Health Counselor with more than 20+ years of experience. She shares her knowledge on working with athletes and individuals with performance anxiety.
WHY IT MATTERS?
- Whether you're a musician, athlete, work professional,
anxiety can strike at any moment, and we want to be well-equipped so that we're able to show up our best selves when it matters!
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NFL Vet, Trey Johnson, speaks on experiencing athletic burnout after reaching the pinnacle of professional football; playing in the NFL. He shares how the truth about his journey in losing himself in everything the "dream" promises.
By definition , "Burnout, or overtraining syndrome, is a condition in which an athlete experiences fatigue and declining performance in his/her sport despite continuing or increased training."
His name is "AlcatreyIsland" on all platforms, feel free to give him a follow @Alcatreyisland!
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This weeks episode is centered around “4 Things I Wish I Knew As a Younger Athlete”.
- Understand and Appreciate Patience
- Leave no stones unturned
- Not to Base Entire Identity in Being an Athlete
- Be Yourself
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On this week's episode we discuss the importance of execution, and why it's so important. Whether it's goal planning, starting a business, creating a project, EXECUTION IS THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS IN THE END!
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Keep up with Nowoola on his socials as well
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/nawopetu/
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Many people often struggle setting effective boundaries in relationships due to people pleasing, low self-esteem, and simply not knowing how to do so.
On this week's episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, we sit down with Latiesha Wiggins to speak on how to set effective boundaries , maintaining them, and thriving in them.
Latiesha is the founder and executive director of Rise Behavioral Health, a mental health agency in the Hampton Roads area. Latiesha has worked in the human services sector for fourteen years and specializes in providing trauma-informed interventions to vulnerable, minority populations as a mental health counselor. Latiesha earned a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2022, and plans to continue working with underserved populations and develop mental health and wellness digital products, to educate and advocate for mental health awareness.
REMEMBER "MENTAL HEALTH IS SOMETHING YOU MAINTAIN!"
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Keep up with Latiesha Wiggins on her socials as well
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/tieshatalk/
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On this week's episode of the Pressing Forward podcast , we sit down with professional soccer player for the Miami FC, Boluwatife Akinyode, as he discusses growing up in Nigeria, moving to Brooklyn, NY, his path to the Pro ranks, and his goals for rest of his career. Humble guy, who keeps the "MAIN THING THE MAIN THING"!
0:00-1:12 (Introduction)
1:12- 4:28 (His Upbringing)
4:28- 7:10 (How He Started Playing Soccer)
7:10-8:25 (Transition to College)
8:25- 9:59 (Importance of Education)
9:59- 19:00 (Becoming A Professional)
19:00- 27:00 (Looking Ahead/ Goals for His Career)
27:00- End (One Piece of Advice)
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Keep up with Boluwatife on his socials as well
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/boluakinyode/
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On this weeks episode , we sit down with LPC, Hillary Aponte- Chimelis to discuss the topic of trauma and how it affects us. We dive into what exactly is trauma, the role our cultural upbringing plays into that , advice to parents, and more! Hillary is a Licensed Professional Counselor in PA, Certified in Perinatal Mental Health, Trauma Informed & RETAIN Parental Leave Coach.
0:00-2:58 (Introduction)
2:58- 3:25 (What is Trauma?)
3:25- 4:14 (Why Some Affected, Others Not)
4:14-5:13 (Signs of those Affected by Trauma)
5:13- 6:56 (Distinction between PTSD & Trauma)
6:56- 8:47 (How Childhood Trauma Affects Us)
8:47- 10:09 (How Culture Plays a Role)
10:09- 13:09 (Resources for Therapy)
13:09- 23:52 (Ways Parents Can Help)
23:52- End (One Piece of Advice)
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Keep up with Hillary on her socials as well
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/https://www.instagram.com/h_aponte.chimelis_counseling/
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This week's guest former Maine Gatorade Player of the Year , Division 1 basketball player, Emily Esposito, speaks on the high and lows of playing on the big stage, mental health, and founding her business from those experiences.
0:00- 1:35 (Introduction)
1:35- 7:16 (Importance of Coaches Who Care)
7:16- 13:47 (Transferring Schools)
13:47- 15:33 (Challenges As a Transfer)
15:33- 21:30 (How Therapy Helped Her)
21:30- 28:22 (Finding Her Purpose Beyond Basketball)
28:22- End (One Piece of Advice)
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Keep up with Emily on his socials as well
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/e_esposito23/
https://www.instagram.com/em_powerment23/
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On this episode, we sit down with Tobi Joshuaville, former student- athlete at Rosemont College, and is now a Post- Grab Intern with the NCAA to talk about forming meaningful relationships, adjusting to a new environment, and shares experiences going to a PWI.
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Keep up with Tobi on his socials as well
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/kicking_it_with_tob/
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On this week's episode of The Pressing Forward podcast, we sit down with Dr. Taunya Tinsley as she speaks on a range of topics including her athletic journey, the importance of a therapeutic alliance, misconceptions around mental health & more! With over 25 years working with professional athletes to secondary academia setting, her wealth of experience offers great insight!
Chapter Markers BELOW!
0:00-2:25 (Introduction)
2:25- 3:40 (Importance of Diverse Environment)
3:40- 6:02 (How She Started Playing Basketball)
6:02-11:10 (Using Sports as A Self- Protective Factor)
11:13- 12:24 (Note to Coaches)
12:24- 19:00 (How She Got Into Counseling)
19:00- 20:00 (Importance of Therapeutic Alliance)
20:00- 21:39 (Transitions Counseling)
21:40- 25:58 (Misconceptions Around Mental Health)
26:00- 29:02 (Reoccuring Challenges Athletes Face)
29:02- 29:53 (Most Gratifying Aspect of Her Job)
29:53- End (One Piece of Advice)
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Keep up with Dr. Tinsley on her socials as well
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/dr_tmt/
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On this week's episode of the Pressing Forward, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with Offensive Lineman for The New York Jets, Greg Senat. He speaks on his journey as a Division 1 basketball player to switching over to football in his senior year. From there Greg Senat went on to become an 6th Round NFL Draft Pick by the Baltimore Ravens! Quite an interesting journey
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On this weeks episode, we sit down with Jeremiah Brown. Jeremiah is CEO and founder of The L.E.A.D. LLC, a current Dean of Students, Motivational Speaker, certified life coach), and was a former employee of the New York Department of Education. After being forced to retire from NFL due to injury, he dedicated himself to finding a way to make a difference in the lives of others. He shares insights on the importance of mentorship, guidance, and most importantly putting in the work behind your dreams!
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INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/1jeremiahbrown/
INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/theleadnyc/
On this week's episode of the Pressing Forward, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with founder of Athlete Second. We speak on the importance of bringing awareness to suicide, signs to look for, and also ways to help. Lexi's platform aims at assisting athletes with their mental health and educating the importance of mental health awareness in sports. Follow her on instagram @athletesecond!
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**Host, Nowoola Awopetu, sits down with Sports Psychologist, Dr. Rick Neff, as he discusses the stigma behind mental health, and perfectionism. Perfectionism is often defined as "the need to be or appear to be perfect, or even to believe that it's possible to achieve perfection". Dr. Neff highlights why this can be detrimental, where the ideology comes from, and advice to parents that drive a hard line for their children.
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IG: @dr.rick.neff, @pressingforward
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK6OGbjxT980gZYAFKnlRLg**
Host, Nowoola Awopetu, sits down with Two-time Pan American Taekwondo Champion, and Olympian Crystal Weekes, as she shares how her faith, her family, and discipline has allowed her to persevere through the ups and downs that has accompanied her career.
Episode available on Apple and Spotify! Share, like, subscribe
IG: @pressingforward
On this week's episode, host Nowoola Awopetu, sits down with former Denver Broncos CB, now financial advisor, Trey Johnson to discuss his NFL journey, and the importance of financial literacy. Trey heads an foundation that organizes football clinics and givebacks in his community aiming to provide them resources as well as financial knowledge. His name is "AlcatreyIsland" on all platforms, feel free to give him a follow!
Host, Nowoola Awopetu, sits down with 8-year NFL vet, Super Bowl Champion, and New York Jets safeties coach to talk about life's journey as a player, coach, and how adversity has largely shaped who he is.
Host, Nowoola Awopetu, talks about the challenges being sidelined by an injury, shares personal experiences and offers insights on overcoming these feats. If you haven't heard Episode 1, be sure to check it out!
The Pressing Forward kicks off Season 1, EP.1 speaking on the difficulties of finding one's identity outside their sport, why it's essential to do so, and shares some personal experiences as well. Tune into next week's episode, and feel free to follow us on socials @pressingforward!