The Ninjababes Podcast: Recent Episodes
Cara Poalillo; Founder of Ninjababes™ and 2x American Ninja Warrior City
Cara Poalillo Mack, a 3x American Ninja Warrior leads a discussion about females in the sport of ninja. She interviews female athletes within the ninja world about their personal stories, performance on the ninja course, and mindset practices.
This is the final episode of Ninjababes. I’ve been so honored and grateful to be a part of this community for the last 4 years. Ninjababes has been my passion project and a truly life-changing experience. I poured my blood, sweat, and tears into this community, but everything has a beginning, middle, and end.
In this episode, I’m going to share with you everything on my heart and mind, give my thanks, and look forward to the future.
Thank you listeners for all your support over the years. If you’ve been inspired by this community and this message, bring it to your own gyms and your own spaces, whether it’s creating a girls group or being a supportive and inspiring friend and teammate to the girls around you, I want to keep the core message of Ninjababes alive. It’s never been about me. Ninjababes has always been a collaborative, inspiring community. You are what makes Ninjababes awesome, and this community will stay alive because of you.
Be strong. Be you. Be a Ninjababe.
I’m back with Amy Harski to continue our discussion about pregnancy and post-partum training. We’re going to talk more about what’s actually going on during your pregnancy and what you need to know when you’re training while pregnant. Amy’s also going to answer some listener questions related to this topic!
10% off with code NINJABABES www.propellolife.com
Neighborhood Ninjas is a nonprofit organization and community outreach program. Their mission is to “increase access to ninja warrior training for low income and underrepresented groups while fostering community and connection.” Neighborhood ninjas partners with ninja training facilities nationwide to spread community, connection, and compassion, one kid at a time.
In this episode, Cara talks with Alex Katz and Whitney Miller about their mentorship program, their partners in prevention, and more.
For more information, visit NeighborhoodNinjas.org
Use coe NINJABABES for 10% off at Propello Life!
Sarah Avery is a physical therapist who specializes in women’s health and pelvic floor rehabilitation. In this episode, we’re going to talk about the female athlete triad, how hormones can affect your performance, and how to properly fuel your body and work with your menstrual cycle to maximize your performance.
Visit Moon Cycle Seed Co.: www.mooncycleseedco.com
Chances are, you know someone in the Ninja community who is currently pregnant or has been pregnant during their career.
My guest this week is Amy Harski, a pregnancy and postpartum coach. She works with athletes looking to stay fit during their pregnancy and helps them get back into their sport postpartum. Amy’s career as a Ninja didn’t start until she was postpartum herself, and that experience navigating Ninja after her own pregnancies helped inspire her to help other ninja athletes.
Pregnancy does not have to be the end of your athletic career. There is a lot you can safely do, both during pregnancy and postpartum. In this episode, we’re going to talk about how athletes can navigate their training throughout and after their pregnancy, common postpartum issues, and how we can unravel the stigma of pregnancy in sports.
Alex Katz is a Certified Personal Trainer with a Master’s Degree in Psychology and she’s super active in the ninja world as a competitor and coach, which gives her a unique, multidimensional insight and perspective in the Ninja world. Often in this sport, we want to go full steam ahead, 100% of the time and we tend to fall into some unhealthy habits. In this episode, Alex and I are going to talk about the habits and warning signs of overtraining and how to step into a healthier training mindset, how to properly recover from injuries, and how we as a Ninja community should reevaluate what it means to have a supportive training environment.
Read more: https://iconrefined.com/life-and-limb-navigating-life-after-sports-injury/
Bonus Content: www.patreon.com/ninjababes
Emerson’s first exposure to ninja was when she had her 11th birthday party at a ninja gym, and she was instantly hooked. Inspired by the likes of Jessie Labreck and Kacy Catanzaro, she’s been training consistently for the last two years and was selected for ANW junior this year.
Her ninja name is Food is Fuel: which has been her motto since her struggle with anorexia. ANW Junior announced another season, and she used that as motivation to get healthy so she could compete and share her story.
Eating disorders are still taboo, especially among athletes, and ninja is no different. Emerson wants to end the stigma and open the dialogue to encourage the ninja community to talk about eating disorders more openly, and encourage healthy attitudes about food (because food is fuel!).
Megan Budway shares her insights and practice for getting her mind ready for the ninja season! Megan describes what she has learned from “With Winning In Mind” by Lanny Bassham. She journals and mentally prepares for each competition by following the Mental Management System. Today Cara and Megan discuss how to follow this technique and how it has helped Megan compete at her best. Cara and Megan also discuss the upcoming National Ninja League season.
Read "With Winning In Mind" for yourself! Amazon Link here: https://amzn.to/3gx6SDd
My guest this week is New Jersey’s Rachel DeGutz! Rachel discovered Ninja while she was in college studying to be a teacher. She followed a lot of ninjas on social media, listened to this podcast, decided to sign up for a class, and the rest is history! Now Rachel is a guest on the show she has always listened to- talk about full circle! In this episode, we’re going to talk about how Rachel prepared for ANW and what it was like competing on the course, the Jersey Girls origin story, whether or not obstacles should be different for males and females, NNL rule changes, and more!
Head over to Patreon for bonus content with Rachel! www.patreon.com/ninjababes
We have a full house in the Ninjababes Studio today! I’m pleased to welcome Michelle Warnky Buurma, Chris Wilczewski, and Mary Leighton on the show today to discuss the National Ninja League and the changes made for NNL season 7. We discuss what the changes are and the need for standards and parameters, making it a sport for both amateurs and professional athletes, how we can work to design courses that work for both men and women, and how we can grow our sport.
Cara and Mary were honored to be presenters at the NNL World Championships to discuss a topic nearly two years in the making. Over the course of the competition, they presented the seminar 6 times. About 2 years ago, Cara and Mary started diving into the topic and concept of males and females in Ninja. Why do we compete on one course? Could we split into two courses? What are the implications on having two courses for men and women? Cara and Mary interviewed with professionals from both outside and inside of ninja and presented their findings during the seminars. In this episode, we’re going to talk about the responses and feedback we got from presenting this seminar.
View the seminar: https://youtu.be/JLBiYLeZCok
Support http://www.patreon.com/ninjababes
15-year-old Addy Herman is a former ANW Junior competitor who was one of the teen competitors featured in the current season of ANW13. In this episode, Addy shares her experiences with NNL, competing as a teen against adults, grip gauntlets, and why she has really been focusing on honing her mental game.
Find the BONUS content here: www.patreon.com/ninjababes
Ninja moms, moms-to-be, or future moms: this episode is for you! Ever wondered how you can balance motherhood and family life with the demands of Ninja training? Lindsay Eskildsen did, and she’s here to talk with Cara about how she took a break from Ninja to focus on family and motherhood, her return to competition and ANW, her life as a new mom, and her advice to women and moms who still want to pursue their passions and dreams.
Meet Megan, the axe-throwing ninja! Megan’s first season on ANW was Season 11, and she’s been involved with ninja for 3 years. In this episode, we’ll talk about her experiences on the show, her axe collection & how she got into axe throwing, defining your worth as an athlete and as a ninja, and the importance of growing the sport outside of the show.
Isabella Wakeham has been a part of the ninja community for a while, both on ANW Jr. and on ANW season 13. In this episode, Cara and Isabella talk about how delaying from season 12 to 13 affected her, her relationship with her ninja brother, the story behind her outfit, dealing with disappointment and failure, what was going through her mind while she was on the course and her advice to teenage ninjas.
Isaiah’s designs: www.luckystripedesigns.com
Support Ninjababes on Patreon: www.patreon.com/ninjababes
Megan Budway is an elementary school music teacher and a rookie on American Ninja Warrior season 13. Megan grew up singing in chorus and theater and later became a classical vocalist singing opera. Besides discussing Megan's musical life, Cara talks to Megan about athlete identity and why it is important to understand who you are as a person outside of ninja.
Check out the Neighborhood Ninjas Mentorship Program www.neighborhoodninjas.org Support us on Patreon and find the BONUS content here!
Zuri Hall has been the sideline host on American Ninja Warrior for 3 seasons. Learn how she landed her spot as host and what it's like interviewing for Access Hollywood. Zuri shares all the behind-the-scenes secrets from American Ninja Warrior about wardrobe, the interview process for ANW, what is in her on-set trailer, her favorite ninjas, and more! Support Ninjababes on Patreon! THANK YOU!! http://www.patreon.com/ninjababes
Check out Zuri's podcast: https://www.hothappymess.com/
Nicolette was cast for ANW season 13, but then life took an unexpected turn. Find out how this mom and nurse tackled one of the most disappointing moments of her life. We talk about the mindset and circumstances that got her through.
Meagan Martin is an 8-time competitor on American Ninja Warrior who has LOT to say about females crushing it on the course. Today she shares her passion for supporting girls and women in sports.
We discuss her article on ESPN from 2019 about retaining girls in sports, what she values about coed competition on ANW, what is special about competing female-only, and advice to other ninjas.
Check out Eleviia! www.duonamic.com
Patreon- Bonus Material:
*Best training advice for ninjas A look at Meagan's at-home rock wall
*How do you push through the days you don't feel like training?
Ready to crush the competition and looking forward to the National Ninja League New England Regionals?! Ultimate Obstacles is setting up a competition experience to remember. Today we talk with Robert Perry, Mary Leighton, Beth Gionfriddo from the UO team about their course design philosophy and what to expect at regionals. This is MORE than just a competition; it's an event you don't want to miss!
Let's celebrate and pass the mic! It has been 100 episodes and we are BEYOND excited. Let's hear from all of you! Why do you love and listen to this podcast? What has this community meant to you?
Get involved with our big NB Insiders community project! https://www.theninjababes.com/insiders
Support us here: https://www.patreon.com/ninjababes
Let's talk about all the gear you need for a ninja warrior! Best ninja shoes, ninja holds, hand-balm for rips, recovery ice methods, how to take care of ninja rips. WATCH this talk on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SguznD9kLj0
Use our Amazon link-- Awesome shoulder-ice device: https://amzn.to/3gfgqTS New Balance Zantes V4: https://amzn.to/3wX3Xdv What else would you like me to make videos about?
Shelle Edge and Cara Mack talk about the upcoming 100th episode and how you can be a part of the celebration. Go to www.theninjababes.com and click the pink bar to submit your audio message! Shelle and Cara talk about what empowerment is and how it can be useful to others beyond our own ambitions. Learn about the upcoming empowerment event for females at Strive Ninja Fitness in Franklin, MA. https://striveninja.com/events
Today we talk all things American Ninja Warrior!
How do you make a great submission video?
How did Jenn feel as a rookie during ANW12?
*What do Cara and Jenn think of the new course changes for ANW13?
✨Want MORE advice about making your ANW submission video?✨ Become a Patreon subscriber and listen to our whole list of advice and discussion casting!
www.patreon.com/ninjababes
Avery Glantz was an American Ninja Warrior Jr. competitor and now is heading towards her rookie season on ANW13. Avery is a top competitor in the ninja world and is hyped for her chance to bring her skill to the next level. Learn how Avery is preparing for ANW and what it's like going from the Jr. stage to the adult stage.
"Ladies, your physiology, training, and nutrition needs change throughout the month. It’s time to leverage this information to work smarter, not harder, for better results," -A'nna. Dr. A'nna Roby has been a lifelong athlete and now works as a nutritionist for athletes. She is the Chief Research Officer at Athlete Blood Test and has a passion for exercise science as it relates to females. Today she shares how Athlete Blood Tests can help support women athletes in their performance, energy, and overall health. This is our time to show our strength and skill!
Discount: Ninjababes50 $50 off www.athletebloodtest.com
www.DrAnnaroby.com
Sarah Avery is a professional yoga therapist and teacher, founder of Moon Cycle Seed Company, and a physical therapist. Today she shares insight on injury prevention for ankles and ACLs. We talk about some practical tips for ankle strengthening after you've had an injury like a sprained ankle and how to be a proactive athlete in avoiding and training against injury.
Contact Sarah here: www.inmotionintegrativept.com
Support Ninjababes here: www.patreon.com/ninjababes
Dr. Elspeth Hart is not only a ninja who will be competing on this season of American Ninja Warrior, but she also treats injured ninjas! Elly is a physician assistant who works in sports medicine. Learn how she has developed "Gymnastics Medicine" which gives the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of gymnastics injuries. Elly is working on developing the same type of clinic for ninja.
Find the BONUS content here: https://www.patreon.com/ninjababes
Contact Elly! @elspethhart Boston Sports and Performance Center
Gymnasticsmedicine@gmail.com
Taylor is a fierce competitor! At the time of this interview, she is ranked 2nd for Elite Female athletes in the National Ninja League. She has competed on American Ninja Warrior seasons 11 and 12 and is looking forward to competing in season 13! Hear how Taylor trains and her outlook on competing.
Want to Keep The Ninjababes Podcast Going Strong!?
Kendra has a story that is raw, real, and relatable. She explains how the drive to be accepted and valued led her down a destructive road. Kendra is now 8 years sober and is celebrating life free of a mind clouded by alcohol addiction. With her renewed mind, Kendra is crushing the course and ready to take on any obstacle.
www.thesoberninja.com
Want the BONUS content? www.patreon.com/ninjababes
Jordan Thurston joins Mary Leighton on today's discussion of the future of female ninja athletes. Jordan coaches top ninjas at Vitality Obstacle Fitness in Massachusetts. Jordan believes that ninja warrior courses should be separated by gender for many reasons. He argues that it will benefit everyone involved including male and female athletes, coaches, and course designers. Hear how his elite female athletes perform on the course, how he trains them, and what he sees as their challenges and their strengths.
Love the NB Podcast? Help us produce MORE by supporting on www.Patreon.com/ninjababes
Check out Rachel's Article on Send City
Want to know the future of ninja? Sometimes you need to look back to look forward. Learn some history about the roots of the ninja warrior community and what the first big backyard competition was like with Jason Huewe. Not only has Jason competed on American Ninja Warrior and worked with the notorious ATS crew that designs the obstacles on ANW, but he is also now an executive producer and challenge designer for USNL. The big USNL competition is coming up April 23-25 and will be aired on BEIN Sports. Jason tells us all about the upcoming event!
Register here for USNL! Use code NINJABABES for $100 off
Michelle is the host of the upcoming United States Ninja League competition which will be televised on Bein Sports. She started teaching fitness 23 years ago. Her background is in dance, fitness group classes, she is a WBFF Pro Worlds top 10 winner, and she is currently a master Pound Fitness trainer. Michelle shares how she came to be involved with USNL and ninja, her life-changing back surgery, and her encouragement to the female community. @michelleDesOrmeaux
Register for USNL for $100 off with code NINJABABES
Two-time American Ninja Warrior Megan Johnson is a med student by day and a ninja warrior by night. Megan is in the midst of her medical program and is learning that there is more to being a doctor than just science and medicine. Megan has also learned valuable lessons from her time competing on ANW. Hear what she has to say about defying gravity in parkour, being on set at ANW filming, and what it is like if you are not aired on the show.
Taylor Amann is a 3-time Big Ten Pole Vault Champion and a 2-time competitor on ANW. In season 11 she crushed it in Oklahoma City and advanced to the Vegas Finalist. She then competed on ANW season 12. Taylor puts her creative brain to work on and off the course whether she is analyzing an obstacle or capturing a beautiful moment in her wedding photography. Hear Taylor's whole story about how she started ninja, competing on ANW, and her passion for photography.
https://www.tayloramann.com/
www.theninjababes.com
Ashley McConville is a 2-time American Ninja Warrior competitor. This year on season 12 she hit her first buzzer! Ashley wildly changed her mindset approach from season 11 to season 12. Find out what gives Ashley her focus, strong mindset, and a competitive edge. Ashley shares about her disappointment from season 11 and how she overcame that the next year and BEAT THAT WALL!
Change your habits- Transform your life! Use code NINJABABES for 15% off!
Periods are awesome! Let's talk about the unique characteristics of females. Did you know there is a point during your menstrual cycle that your athletic performance is typically best? That's because females have a testosterone boost during ovulation that allows them to build muscle and perform at their peak athletically. In this episode, we are joined by Nardeen Faragalla, a certified health coach with a focus on hormones and how they affect our sports performance.
Contact Nardeen here! tinyurl.com/nardeenf
Tea for period cramps: www.drinkofnature.com
Jesse Labreck was the "last woman standing" on this season of American Ninja Warrior. Hear how this champ felt on the course and how she strategized. She was the only woman who made it to the Power Tower and she raced up the tower against Daniel Gil. Jesse shares her favorite obstacle from this season and what it's like competing alongside her fiancé, Chris DeGangi. Jesse and Cara talk about tips for new and seasoned ninjas, and how to balance your ninja mentality between fun and competitive.
NinjaPassport: 15% off with code ninjababes15
Want to fight FOMO in your life? Does looking at other people's lives on social media make you feel bad about your own life? Sometimes we get stuck letting the negative affects of comparison make us feel less-than. The result is that being truly thankful is hard, because we don't actually recognize or appreciate the good things we do have in life. On today's episode Cara teaches strategies for breaking this negative cycle and using comparison to build confidence instead of self-negativity.
Let's debunk some myths: Women have more lower body strength and men have more upper body strength. Men have more fast-twitch muscle movement, and women have more endurance. We are designing ninja courses with mens' bodies in mind, not womens'. Kids do not produce lactic acid in their muscles. Are these true or false? Listen to learn all this and more.
How can women ninja athletes optimize their performance on the course? Dr. Blade is an expert in sports performance and has a PhD. in Kinesiology with a focus in human morphology and the differences between male and female bodies in their growth process. Today we discuss in depth the differences that we see in the physical training and capabilities of male and female athletes. How can these factors affect ninja warriors in the way we train and compete?
Olivia finished 6th place overall in the Grand Final of season 4 of Australian Ninja Warrior! In Grand Final Stage 1, Olivia beat the course for the first time! Season 4 was Sarah's first season competing on Australian Ninja Warrior. Both ladies had a long history in gymnastics and share their reaction to the documentary, "Athlete A" and their personal stories with gymnastics and abuse. They also discuss season 4 of Australian Ninja Warrior.
Cara Poalillo and Dr. Fitni Destani, a professor at Keene State College who specializes in mental performance in athletes, talk about all things mindset and gender in ninja. We discuss how we can empower girls and women in our sport to reach their full potential in training and competition. When should we be training and competing coed? Should we separate by gender? How can we best set female athletes up for success? www.propellolife.com 10% off and free shipping code: NINJABABES
Sara Heesen and Cara Poalillo have a vulnerable discussion about the pressures they have felt related to how they portray themselves on social media and in person. Cara and Sara Heesen talk about role models, expectations, and living authentically. When should or shouldn't you confirm to others' views of you?
www.propellolife.com 10% off code NINJABABES
Casey Rothschild and Cara reflect on the last 2 years of ninja and life. Today Casey shares all about: How she has learned to keep calm before competition and on the course Why it's ok to want to WIN Casey's career goals for the future What's new happening with the Neighborhood Ninja mentor program *What is Queer Ninjas Unite www.propellolife.com 10% off code Ninjababes
On today’s teen episode of The Ninjababes Podcast, teen host Marie Young interviews Maggie Owen about her time during quarantine and how she is crushing it as a ninja athlete. Maggie has competed in NNL Worlds for 4 seasons, she was a UNX Majors 2nd place winner, competitor on ANW Jr. season 1, and originally got the call to compete in ANW12. Not all of those who were originally called for ANW12 were actually able to compete because of COVID and the limited number of athletes allowed on set. None-the-less Maggie explains her incredible reaction to being called to compete with her heros and how honored she has been to train at such a high level.
Incredible gym culture: there is something so amazing about helping young girls feel strong. How do we foster healthy gym environments? How to do support the females AND the males in such a way that we are working together to empower one another, promote safety, and produce stellar athletes? It's all here in today's part 2 episode with Shelle Edge.
In the world of ninja warrior most often men & women and boys & girls compete together and train together. Is this always the best option? This is a topic that we have explored a lot on The Ninjababes Podcast. Today Shelle Edge shares her perspective on girls and boys training ninja together and why she started a teen girls' ninja program at her gym. Shelle is from England, she is a personal trainer and a ninja coach, listen to her story today!
Gloria Orta talks with Cara Poalillo about her time on American Ninja Warrior season 12. Her rookie year was filled with excitement as she hit the course for the first time, proving that dreams do come true. Gloria, age 20, shares today about her experience coming to America as an immigrant and growing up with big dreams. She is passionate about building her future career around supporting the immigrant community, and inspiring girls to go after their dreams.
Gloria's Recommendations:
Netflix: 30 Minute Hug
Netflix: Immigration nation
Texas Civil Rights Project https://texascivilrightsproject.org/action/
www.HHS.gov
@gloriasofit
Rebekah Cornwall is the singing ninja, but did you know that she is the strategy and technique queen? She has spent hours reviewing skilled ninjas' competition runs and obstacle work. Rebekah has an eye for technique and strategy. Marie Young and Rebekah talk about her time on ANWJr. Rebekah explains her life-changing moment of standing on the ANW Jr. course for the first time. She shared advice for other teens.
What does being a bystander of abuse mean? As a bystander what can you do to help stop a situation of sexual abuse or violence? How can we normalize bystander culture like: checking in with friends, telling others when something seems wrong, and being respectful in talking to each other about our observations and feelings. What can we do better at our gyms? Today Cara Poalillo and Rachel Stewart talk all about learning how to recognize red flags in situations and how to speak up and tell people when something seems "off". We discuss ideas for gyms in making their environments more safe and building a culture of open communication.
Rachel Stewart is a ninja, a survivor or sexual violence, and a professional sexual violence prevention educator and victim advocate. Today she shares about what consent is and how that can look in gyms. We also talk in depth about respecting survivors that we know of or don't know of in our own communities.
Resources:
www.Rainn.org
https://www.loveisrespect.org/on-campus/resources/
https://www.scarleteen.com/need_help_now_a_guide_to_scarleteens_direct_services
Renee Caverly-Gillett is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in trauma therapy. Cara Poalillo and Renee discuss how to cope with the news of Drew Drechsel and the ripple affect of grief in the ninja warrior community. How can we respond to what is going on instead of only reacting in anger? There are ways that we can still value and develop our own goals and identity without feeling in despair.
Renee's "Checklist" to parents in helping children cope: 1. Allow kids to express emotion 2. Don't react and Do not judge 3. Encourage and be open for communication 4. Allow them to grieve
Cara Poalillo and Whitney Miller are back for part 2 in discussing sexual abuse and how to make make gyms safer. Whitney was a From Darkness to Light counselor and has taught on consent and abuse. Today we talk about everything from coach training and screening, state mandated reporting, spotting consent, and running large events. We discuss several resources that gyms can use in improving their safety plans.
https://www.d2l.org/ From Darkness to Light resources
Trigger Warning Today's episode Whitney Miller and Cara Poalillo discuss sexual abuse, recognizing the warning signs, and discussing what makes a person "safe" or "unsafe". This content may be a trigger for some people who have been victim to abuse. The purpose of this episode is to help open up the lines of communication about sexual abuse in the light of recent events in the Ninja Warrior community and the devastating news that has come out about Drew Dreschel. Our guest today, Whitney Miller, has worked as a social worker at a Child Advocacy Center where she was an intake coordinator and provided crisis counseling. Whitney has also taught workshops in community prevention, and she shares some of that prevention and awareness wisdom with us today.
Brett Sims has competed in American Ninja Warrior since before the start of ANW in America. He competed for 2 seasons on Sasuke in Japan before ANW started in the US. Grace Sims has been a rock climber and competitor on ANW since season 7. Brett has a been coaching parkour and ninja for over 7 years. Grace and Brett are co-owners of Motive School of Movement in Greenville, SC. Today we discuss coaching in ninja, the differences in coaching females vs. males, and how to best empower girls to be confident in their abilities.
We love PropelloLife BCAA's and Proteins!
We have been deep in discussion about gender bias and the question of 'does it exist in ninja warrior?' This episode, Cara explains the questions and feedback Ninjababes has gotten since the last two Gender Bias episodes related to this discussion. The three biggest topics are coaching females and males, ninja course design, and physiological differences between males and females. Take this survey to help guide the conversation of gender and ninja! Take our Gender Differences Survey
This is the Part 2 continuation of the Gender Bias episode with Mary Leighton. Let's talk all about Ninja Warrior and the topic of males and females competing on different courses. What would be the ramifications of dividing courses between men and women? Why does Ninjababes exist? How can we support one another in our female community? What is the future of female athletes in Ninja Warrior?
Should you care about gender bias? It effects the way you participate in sports and train at the gym; conversations like these could have a direct impact on your future in the sport of Ninja. Mary Leighton has her masters degree in leadership, and her capstone study was on gender bias and its effects on female leaders. When she is not researching the relevant issues of today, she is coaching ninja at Ultimate Obstacles in MA and has competed in the 1st Major of UNX, and in the National Ninja League World Finals.
"Strong Like Her" by Haley Shapley https://amzn.to/2Dve7uH
10% off with code NINJABABES on all PropelloLife products
This teen week episode is hosted by Marie Long. Ava Long is a circus performer and ninja warrior! She has competed on ANW Jr. season 1, come in 1st place in the National Ninja League, and has performed in circus all over the world. Ava has dreams of performing for Disney in circus arts. Find out what she thinks about girl power, following your dreams, and being a strong female ninja!
Hydrate this Summer! 10% off code NINJABABES
Jamie Ross is a 2x City Finalist competitor on American Ninja Warrior. She shares her story about struggling with depression, suicide, and low self-worth. Her story is raw, real, and honest. She shares what her "dark times" were like, and how her life has drastically changed for the better. Jamie and Cara talk about mental health, self-respect, and understanding your self-worth.
Loyal friendship is a powerful force; especially between ninja warriors. Lindsay Partenio, Lyndsey Halik, Becky Adnot-Haynes, & Jessica Hughes-Scallos have a lot to share about being an unstoppable "mom squad", competing on American Ninja Warrior, banishing mom-guilt, and being the most supportive friends. These strong women share with us how friendship can be a game-changer in your ninja life.
Save 10% and free shipping with Code NINJABABES at propellolife.com
This is the first week of teen week and we are celebrating with Emilie Thibodeau! Emilie competed on American Ninja Warrior Jr. and placed 4th for UNAA World Finals 2019. This teen has passion for competition and a zeal to never give up. Hear why she loves to compete in ninja, what makes her a strong competitor, and what she is up to now.
code NINJABABES discount https://www.propellolife.com/
Maggi, Jessie, and Cara have all been recovering from serious injury over the past year. All three women have been learning, growing and changing during this process. Hear Jessie and Maggi's advice and lessons, as well as Jessie's experience on Titan Games.
PropelloLife Recovery and Fuel, 10% off code NINJABABES
Traveling the world, learning to adapt in every situation, and running at 3am. These facts are close to home for Laura Bliss. She learned valuable life lessons while her husband was deployed, and realized her ability to problem solve and be creative. Those extraordinary lessons have changed her life. Now she applies those lessons to ninja warrior, and she wants to share them with you as well.
"No matter what you do right now, you're in this situation. You can either choose to see the positive and make this successful or be negative and ultimately drown." Behnoush Babzani
Behnoush has faced near-death experiences in her lifetime that have transformed her perspective on life. She lives with unwavering resiliency, strength, and determination. Her mental strength is like none-other, and she has wisdom to share.
Find out more about Behnoush and her book, "Hold On While I Hang On".
Book a Mindset 1:1 with Cara
Caitlyn shares about her time during COVID-19 and what it is like being surrounded by her family of ninjas. She shares her honest reflections about this time, how it is effecting American Ninja Warrior, and what we can do to ease in to the transition of going "back" (when quarantine is eventually over). We talk about ways to have grace on your body as you ease back in to "normal" life schedules and training at the gym. This episode is all about transitioning well.
PropelloLife Protein and Energy; 10% off code NINJABABES
Book a Mindset 1:1
Have you ever left the gym and found yourself only counting the things you did wrong, and ignoring all the good things you did right? Injury prevention is a highly important area of our athletic lives, but have you ever considered how to prevent downfall in your mindset? What does it mean to be mentally strong? How do you recover well in your physical body and also your mental self? Cara teaches ways to build your mental strength in and out of the gym.
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Book a mindset One on One with Cara
Haley Shapley knows what we are about. She wrote a book called, "Strong Like Her". Her book is described as, "An adult version of the hugely successful book Strong Is the New Pretty, this is an inspiring tribute to female athletes—those who have paved the way throughout history and those who continue to push the boundaries of what it means to be strong." Maggi Thorne is featured in this book and other women like, Barclay Stockett, are interviewed as well.
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Shoulder Seminar
Back in 2017, four friends decided they wanted to take the ninja womens' community to a whole new level. The ninja warrior world has had a strong womens' community since its' inception, but we wanted more. Danielle Bonomo, Jane Greenebaum, Chelsea Cronin, and Cara Poalillo took that community one step further by deciding to start inspire ninja girls and women everywhere to call themselves ninjababes. This movement started out of friendship, encouragement, and determination. Now it has grown to a worldwide movement of female ninja athletes.
Sweet T is a stunt double, ninja warrior, and strong-minded woman. Hear her stories of what it is like to be a stunt woman, how she got started in stunting and ninja, and what she is up to now during her time at home. Tiana won first the season in the National ninja League World Finals. She shares how she has excelled and the mindset it takes to be one top.
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Greetings from social distancing! Hang in there Ninjababe! Allison Greff shares her experience placing 4th in the Adult Pro division this season at the National Ninja League World Champs. She has a strong determination and shares her success and advice. We discuss how to schedule your time during quarantine in order to feel more in control and enjoy your time at home.
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Check out the free "Sanity" course to help you figure out how to be productive and positive during this time.
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Paris Juarez is a a strong and savvy ninja. This 14 yr old knows how to navigate the course and come out on top. Paris' story shares the surprises and challenges she encountered this season at the NNL World Championships, and her experience on stages 1, 2, and 3. Paris shares insights of how she stays calm under pressure and how she preps to compete to her best on the course.
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Expectation can lead you in confidence or it can bog you down with stress. Which one is it for you? Today Janelle Kopa and Cara Poalillo discuss the topic of expectation in depth. Janelle shares her story of childhood gymnastics to adult ninja and where this journey has taken her. She shares the freedom she experiences now in her ability to decide for herself what passions she wants to pursue and and what expectations to set for herself.
Sign up for the Ninjababes Workshops at Centercourt!
Kelsey's world was totally rocked when she allowed her new fascination with ninja warrior to start an avalanche of change in her life. She began taking chances and believing in herself more than ever before. Now she has left her home in Massachusetts to travel the world. Kelsey has seen her life change as she allowed herself to open up to new opportunity. She has a revolutionized sense of self, deep gratefulness, and a better understanding of who she is.
Check out that "magical birthday gift" commercial that Cara talks about in this episode. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A174kSFt0Vg
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Melissa Rogers and Megan Debora have let ninja redefine their lives for the better. These two women are moms in their 40's, best friends, and incredible ninjas. They are coaching ninja, started a new business, and proving that you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
Happy Valentine's Day ninjababes!
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Tegan placed third in the National Ninja League World Championships season 4, and won first place in the Warrior Ninja Games this season. Now she is taking her influence on the ninja world to a whole new level as she changes the face of ninja training. Tegan has created "adaptive ninja"; a training method for ninjas who have a physical or mental limitation. Find out how she created this one-of-a-kind curriculum and how it is transforming culture at TriCounty Ninja in Fenton, MI.
Email Tegan: info@adaptiveninjaclimbing.org
@AdaptiveNinjaClimbing
FB: Overcoming Obstacles: Adaptive Ninja & Climbing
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Miss Massachusetts, "Chippy", or Lyndsey Littlefield, whatever name you call her, this girl is going to change your world. Lyndsey is a ninja who has rocked her competition skills on the course and on the Miss America pageant stage. Lyndsey shares how she has learned to bring authenticity to everything she does whether ninja, pageants, college, or Girls Inc.
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Taylor and Nevaeh are fierce 12-year-old competitors on ANW Jr, and these two ninjababes are taking the course by storm. These girls use their bright energy on and off the course to compete well and be strong encouragers to the peopler around them. Learn more about what gives them strength in this week's episode.
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Neighborhood Ninjas NNL Worlds Scholarships
This is your one-stop-shop to hear everything you want to know about this year's competition. Cara talks with Kelly Kofahl and Jennifer Hohn from the NNL Worlds Committee about what we can expect to see and what is new this year. With all new events this year at NNL, there will be more to participate in than just your traditional run. You don't want to miss all these exciting updates!
NNL World Championships
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Happy 2020! Jeri D'Aurelio shares with host, Cara Poalillo, about her life in the army and all of the twists life has brought her. Jeri recently moved from Colorado to Alaska and shares what life has been like as she adjusts to a new adventure. They discuss the perspectives of having separate ways to test physical abilities of men and women in both the army and in ninja. Jeri shares what she thinks of the separate UNX ninja courses in UNX Majors, and what her reflects of 2019 are.
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Quest has an unforgettable story that has molded her into the woman she is today. Her drive to build the life that she dreams of despite circumstances of poverty, drug abuse, and almost dying from a fight at a young age, makes her positive spirit contagious. Listen to her advice for your life, and let her encouragement impact you on a deeper level.
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Charity Grace LeBlanc, the mermaid ninja, is a 2x American Ninja Warrior and social media creator. She shares her unique story of going after her creative passions with still balancing her daily roles as a mother, athlete, and content creator. Hear her intriguing perspective on motherhood and advice for women.
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How do you take gratitude past the surface level of "thank you," and allow it do deeply impact your life on a day-to-day level? Cara teaches a mindset technique that allows you to experience the transformative power that comes with living in a spirit of gratefulness.
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Want a fresh perspective? Kylie Hughes and Elena Borges are teenage ninjas with bright energy and passion for ninja. They represent the next generation of ninjas and they are showing up with incredible strength! Hear their perspective on the first UNX majors on November 2nd, 2019. What did they think about the mens' and womens' course split? How did they become they incredible ninjas and how do they handle competition?
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Can your role behind the scenes be just as important as someone who is in the spotlight? What does an empowered-supporter look like? Kim Rahn and April Beckner share their emotions and thoughts about what their role in the ninja community has been and is now. They are each in a relationship with one of the top male ninja athletes, however, their importance in ninja does not come second place to their partners'. April and Kim explain their vital role as supportive-partners and what their relationships have looked like. These incredible women share their wisdom, stories, and observations from their lives as ninjas with a unique perspective.
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Have you heard about UNX? Jesse "Flex" Labreck and Jessie Graff share all about this new and excited ninja league and the controversial changes that will be characteristic of UNX compared to other types of ninja competition. Both women share their insights, opinions, and advice on all things UNX and ninja.
Check out more at www.unxnow.com
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Mady Howard is full of heart and she shares that passion in her endeavors on the course and her zeal for life. This 23 year old ICU nurse has a cause: to live life to the fullest and spread that brightness to everyone she meets. She's been a competitive athlete nearly her whole life and has learned how to control her thoughts and emotions under pressure. Whether she is working in the ICU or making careful moves on the course Mady knows how to keep her cool.
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Susan Tucker, Unity in Community, Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Do you want an all-access pass to ninja?! Ninja Passport is your key! Susan Tucker shares what her family has done to bring unity to the ninja community. It all started with her mindset and vision to see a better world. She grew up in poverty, but was determined to take step to build a better life for herself. Hear her amazing story of triumph and all the challenges along the way.
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Lori and Jeannette and are two Obstacle Course Racing athletes who have burst past their own limitations. They have defied the rules of who they once believed themselves to be in order to become stronger and more resilient versions of themselves. Here the story of what it's taken for them to change their mindsets and become the unstoppable women they are today.
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Athletic injuries can lead to a depressed state of mind. How do you deal with the struggles of an injury or a challenging time in life? Cara shares her personal experience getting through the mental struggles of injury and recovery and how to unpack the layers of your own identity. She shares her past struggle with depression and how she strengthened her own self-belief through understanding her identity.
Then we learn about BeeFree granola and the new partnership Ninjababes has with this amazing, family focused company.
Book your "Consult with Cara" one-on-one www.theninjababes.com
Cara shares the foundations of how to set goals and stay motivated in ninja. If you want to figure out your goals, stay focused, set progression goals, and feel proud of yourself as you excel, then you've come to the right place! This video utilizes the "Ninja Goals Worksheet" available for free download here
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Sandy Zimmerman is a powerhouse of inspired energy. She has captured our hearts as a the first mother to make it up the warped wall on American Ninja Warrior, but before she accomplished that she was already a star in her own community. Hear all about the life-changing experiences that built her into the amazing woman she is today.
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Ninja veteran Meagan Martin shares tons of memories from her 6 years on American Ninja Warrior. Listen to her share all the thrills and spills of competing in ninja, plus what is new in her career now. Meagan shares her thoughts of ANW Tacoma qualifying and updates us on her hamstring injury recovery. We also discuss some surprising facts about carrots and human fingers. Meagan's laugh is contagious, so you don't want to miss any moment of this episode.
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What does it take to go from devastating injury, to inspiring champion? Angela has in insanely-amazing story to share. Last year on ANW10 in Philadelphia, Angela tore her ACL. Her life-changing injury impacted not just her physical body, but her mind and emotions as well. She had to fight through a year of recovery to make it back on the course for ANW11 in Baltimore, and then she crushed it in qualifying, making it to city finals! Hear more about her best advice on mindset, determination, and going after your dreams, and be inspired by her dramatic life's journey that has brought her to where she is today.
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The way you think about yourself shapes your personality, your actions, your words, and everything about your life and who you are! Did you ever realize you can work with your own way of thinking to impact the outcome of your life and the world around you? This part 2 episode of Your Thoughts Determine Your Reality focuses on how to build positive thought spirals in your own mind and allow those thoughts to become the reality of who are you.
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Do you ever find yourself going down a rabbit trail of negative thoughts? What if you could harness those pesky thoughts into a spiral of something positive and beneficial to your life? Today we are talking about reworking your brain to live powerfully.
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Chatting it up with Casey Rothschild as we talk about our rookie seasons last year on ANW10 in Philly and what we are looking forward to as we prepare to compete in Baltimore for ANW11 in a few days! We discuss how we are training, what our goals are, and how we are mentally preparing. Plus Casey reveals her background in circus arts before she got started in ninja. We discuss our perspectives of women in the sport of ninja and comments we have been met with from outsides looking in on the sport.
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Lindsey and Scott Behrends share with Cara about the excitement, struggles, and adventure of raising ninja kids, owning a ninja gym, and taking like day by day. We share about what it looks like to show kids how to treat others with respect and equality, and how ninja has been a tool in that. Then we talk about the power and influence your words and thoughts have on your own life and those around you.
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Sara and Cara share their memories from testing for American Ninja Warrior, and the rush they got from being on set and running the obstacles. Then Sara shares how set-backs she experienced have made her stronger and how they have forced her to hone in on her mental strength. These girls discuss strategies for combating depressed thoughts, especially when related to injury or sickness, and how they have both overcome tough circumstances in recent years.
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