Shows
Raising Pro AthletesHomeschooling & Traditional Schooling: Which One is Best for an Athlete?Today, let's dive into the often debated topic of homeschooling versus traditional schooling for young athletes. We'll explore the reality, challenges, and alternative education options that can support their athletic journey.As we discovered firsthand, many successful pro athletes are homeschooled or engage in flexible remote learning due to the demanding travel and training commitments. However, homeschooling didn't align with our family dynamic. We sought alternative education paths that are offered by the progressive alternative schools. These schools provide flexibility, support, and a community that embraces the pursuit of athletic dreams. It's important to consider that alternative...2023-04-2504 min
Raising Pro AthletesCompetitive Climbing in Front of Cameras: The Benefits, The Risks & PressuresWith a crew of eight to ten cameras capturing their every move, the climbers' true characters emerged. Some blossomed, energized by the attention and excitement - it was evident that being in front of the camera fueled their performance. On the other hand, a few talented athletes struggled to handle the pressure. Their innate abilities momentarily faded as they faced the overwhelming presence of cameras.Becoming a professional athlete entails learning to thrive in front of the cameras. It's an essential skill to master. As spectators, we only see the final result, the polished performance. But behind...2023-04-2502 min
Raising Pro AthletesBuying a Team Uniform for Competitive Climbing: Cost Analysis, the Importance, and the BenefitsAs parents, we invest in memberships, coaching, federation, and equipment, but often overlook the significance of a uniform. It's not just about appearance; it symbolizes commitment and belonging. When your child is the only one without a uniform in the team, it creates a sense of detachment and sends the wrong message. By embracing the uniform, your child becomes an integral part of a unit, fostering a sense of camaraderie and team spirit.Topics discussed in this episode:Commitment Beyond Membership: The Importance of Uniforms in Team Sports [00:00:00 - 00:01:24]From Head to Toe: The E...2023-04-2503 min
Raising Pro AthletesSports and Education: The Options, Costs, and Risks of a Child Athlete Pursuing CollegeIn our society, there's an ingrained belief that university education is the only path to success. But what if your child's passion lies in becoming a professional rock climber or excelling in a particular sport? So today, we're diving into a critical topic that demands our attention: how to properly educate our athletes to help them reach their highest potential.As a parent, we must challenge the prevailing paradigm of non-traditional education invalidity and recognize that the prime years for nurturing an athlete's potential are during their teens and early 20s. Investing in their athletic training and...2023-04-2504 min
Raising Pro AthletesRock Climbing Terminology: Pockets in Climbing, Different Types and UsesWe're going to explore the exciting world of rock climbing and talk about one of the most important things climbers need to know: Pockets. These are small holes or spaces in the rock that you can use to grip onto, whether it's a one-finger pocket or a four-finger pocket. We'll learn about the different types of pockets, how to use them, and the challenges they present. Get ready for an adventure-packed episode that will leave you wanting to hit the rocks and start climbing!________________________________________________About This Podcast2023-04-2200 min
Raising Pro AthletesWhat is the Approach in Rock Climbing? Getting to the Rock ExplainedI'm going to give you the inside scoop on what an approach really means in rock climbing. The approach is the journey from the trailhead to the actual rock face, and it can be a real adventure in itself. From steep terrain to dense forests, the approach can be a daunting task that requires endurance, patience, and a willingness to take risks. But trust me, the reward of reaching the top of that rock is worth every step of the approach. So let's lace up our boots and get ready to explore the world of rock climbing approaches in...2023-04-2200 min
Raising Pro AthletesWarming Up is Key in Rock Climbing: The Importance of Preparing Yourself for the ClimbWarming up is crucial when you start to climb. Hang boarding is one way to warm up. Usually, everybody brings a hang board to warm up before also using bands. This is a really big help and truly worth it. This is a much lower grade, and it's warming up. So it's always really important to warm up in a much lower grade than what you're planning on training at so that your muscles are ready to go.I want to talk to you about the importance of warming up before climbing. Hang boarding is a great...2023-04-2200 min
Raising Pro AthletesRock Climbing Terminology: Conglomerate Rock for Rock Climbing and it's CharacteristicsLearning about rock formation. Apparently, this is quite crucial for all climbers. This is what is called a conglomerate. Basically, what it is, it's rocks within rocks, right? Millions and millions and millions of years old with these pockets. Right? So the pockets are great for fingers, but there's no place to put your feet. So that's what makes it a little bit harder and more challenging.________________________________________________About This PodcastIt takes a village t...2023-04-2200 min
Raising Pro AthletesRock Climbing Terminology: What is Considered a First Ascent?As a rock climber, understanding the lingo is crucial. One term that often comes up is FA or First Ascent. It refers to the first person to successfully climb and send a route. On the other hand, FFA stands for First Female Ascent, which recognizes the first female to send a particular route. These terms highlight the importance of achievement and progress in the rock climbing community, and as a climber, it's essential to know and respect the significance of these milestones.________________________________________________About This Podcast2023-04-2200 min
Raising Pro AthletesParenting an Athlete: Your Role in Building Your Kid's Journey to ProLet’s explore the captivating journey of parenting professional athletes. In this episode, we delve into the crucial roles parents play in nurturing their aspiring rock climbers. Living in Spain, we've encountered families from around the world, all sharing the same determination to see their children reach new heights in the climbing world.One parent takes on the primary role, fully dedicated to their child's training, practice, and involvement. They accompany their young climber to the gym, arrange guided trips to outdoor crags, and handle all coach communications and competition registrations. It's a demanding responsibility that transforms in...2023-04-2205 min
Raising Pro AthletesWhat is the Right Training Plan for Your Kid? Tips for Finding the Right OneToday, let’s delve deep into the heart of finding the perfect coaches and team for both of my sons, who are now at the next level of rock climbing. With me, Marina, we will unravel the complexities of both competition climbing and rock climbing, highlighting the distinct differences, and the need for tailored training plans. Discover the unique challenges we face as we navigate the exciting world of parenting, and how we've adapted our approach to accommodate these diverse aspirations.We will also discuss deeply into the financial aspects that accompany this endeavor. From coaching fees, gym...2023-04-2208 min
Raising Pro AthletesHow to Keep Your Kid Humble While They Excel in Their Sports and AthleticsIn this episode, join me as we tackle a crucial topic: not letting your child's success go to their head. Living in Guatemala, my kids trained extensively, mostly self-taught, until we hired a coach from Chile. As we ventured to Spain, a hub of world-class climbers, we sought a team to elevate our children's skills. However, I realized the danger of excessive praise and the impact it can have on a young athlete's mindset. Inspired by the renowned entrepreneur Jeff Bezos, I delve into the importance of humility and the drawbacks of labeling children as "talented."Through...2023-04-2205 min
Raising Pro AthletesCosts of Joining a Competitive Climbing Team: Teams, Gyms, Training and Preparation CostsLet’s unravel the hidden costs and uncharted territories of joining a competitive rock climbing team. We start by exploring the different types of teams available, focusing on the advanced and competitive ones that propel young climbers to the next level. I recount my personal journey of finding the perfect team for my kids, emphasizing the importance of finding a group that challenges them and provides top-notch coaching.But what about the financial aspects? I discuss the varying costs across different countries, drawing from our experiences in the United States and Spain. From monthly team fees to ad...2023-04-2212 min
Raising Pro AthletesJoining a National Climbing Team: Federation Costs, the Pros, the Cons, and CostsNow, you might be wondering, what exactly is a federation? Well, think of it as the governing body for climbers in your country, like the USA Climbing Team or the Spain Federation. These federations play a crucial role when it comes to representing your country on the global stage, such as the Olympics. But let's talk about the nitty-gritty—fees and costs, they vary from country to country.Having experienced three different federations—Guatemala, the US, and now Spain—I can tell you firsthand that each system is unique. Guatemala, for instance, operates under a socialized system with n...2023-04-2206 min
Raising Pro AthletesEthics of Rock Climbing: Where to Pee? Tips on How - To and WhereGet ready to climb into the world of rock climbing ethics with me in this episode! As someone who's never climbed before, I was fascinated to learn about the unwritten rules of the climbing community. Did you know there are certain areas where climbers are allowed to go and others where it's strictly off-limits? It's all about respecting the natural environment and other climbers.But let's get down to the nitty-gritty: where to pee. This topic may not come up in everyday conversation, but it's an important one in the world of climbing. While it may seem...2023-04-2201 min
Raising Pro AthletesWhy I Prefer Rock Climbing as a Parent: Benefits Compared to Other Extreme SportsLet's talk about the one-of-a-kind bond between parents and their children that can be found in the thrilling sport of rock climbing. As a parent who doesn't climb myself, I'm always on the lookout for ways to connect with my kids. And let me tell you, rock climbing has been a game-changer! The best part? You don't have to climb to join in on the fun.The magic happens when you're watching your kids scale up the rock face right in front of you. Not only can you hear every word they say, but you can also...2023-04-2201 min
Raising Pro AthletesEthics of Rock Climbing: Learn When to Stay Quiet and Show RespectWho knew that one of the ethics of rock climbing is being quiet when someone else is tackling a challenging route? It may seem like a small detail, but it's actually a sign of respect and courtesy towards fellow climbers. It turns out that being quiet when someone is attempting a hard route is an ethical requirement! Yes, you read that right. Even if you don't know the climber or are a hundred meters away from them, you are expected to be respectful and stay quiet.I must admit that I was oblivious to this r...2023-04-2202 min
Raising Pro AthletesEthics of Rock Climbing: The Dos and Don'ts of Playing Music While ClimbingAre you a rock climber who loves to pump up the volume with some tunes while scaling up a challenging route? Well, hold on to your speakers because I've got some news for you. According to the unwritten ethics of rock climbing, listening to music out loud is a big no-no, especially when you're climbing with a lot of people aroundIn this episode, we talk about the unspoken code of conduct in the rock climbing community when it comes to blasting music. While it's not technically prohibited, it's generally frowned upon as it goes against the...2023-04-2201 min
Raising Pro AthletesThe Secret Strength of Climber Kai Lightner - Connie Lightner (His Mom)"Protecting our kids is our number one responsibility", Connie told me when we first connected.And she took this role incredibly seriously, in the non-conventional ways. Because protecting our kids in sports is rarely talked about and definitely not considered to be a priority. Because it usually is easily missed or we aren't alert to the signs.Connie and I talk about her role as Kai's coach in the beginning, the roles of coaches (the good and the bad). How about all the is involved to fully supporting your child for...2023-03-251h 10
Raising Pro AthletesDierdre Wolownick: A Talk With Alex Honnold's Mom"I’m not the usual kind of ‘athlete’s mom’ that you’re accustomed to interviewing," Dierdre warned me when we first connected about being on the podcast.And that's why I knew I had to speak to the mother of Alex Honnold, who is considered today's most accomplished rock climber and the real life star of Free Solo, Oscar winning documentary.Raising a child like Alex Honnold takes courage and trust. This kind of support is usually taken for granted but can either stifle a child if 'overprotected' or let them blossom to become...2023-03-1729 min
Raising Pro AthletesFinding the Right Climbing Team: Why You Need to Choose WiselyYou don't want the coaches to be in awe of your kids because that doesn't really work. Why is it essential to choose the right climbing team for your child? Selecting the perfect climbing team for your child is crucial if you want to see them soar to new heights. As a parent, it's natural to want the best for your child and to provide them with opportunities to thrive. However, when it comes to climbing, finding the right team is more than just about opportunity - it can make all the difference in your...2023-02-1203 minRaising Pro AthletesBIG ANNOUNCEMENT and the REAL reasons we moved to SpainBIG ANNOUNCEMENT and the REAL reasons we moved to Spain ________________________________________________About This PodcastIt takes a village to raise a pro athlete.For the first time ever this channel takes you behind the athlete’s ‘unspoken’ road and talks to the people that normally get very little mention, but are the ones who are responsible for the underlying success of an athlete.Marina pulls back the cur...2023-02-1202 minRaising Pro AthletesWelcome to Raising Rock Climbers UNCENSORED PodcastAs a parent of not one but two sons with ambitions to “go pro” as Rock Climbers, your host Marina Kuperman Villatoro began navigating the often rocky terrain of extreme sports a decade ago. She learned quickly that while climbers compete as individuals, raising an athlete is most definitely a team sport.In this one-of-a-kind podcast Marina pulls back the curtain and dives deep into chats with the (mostly) unsung heroes of extreme sports: the parents, the coaches, the trainers, the nutritionists and the therapists. These insightful conversations reveal the realities of what it takes to support a child...2023-01-1402 min
Raising Pro AthletesSupport Your Child in Sports: Investment In Your Kids Journey (Not Only Financial)You are fully on board to support your kid especially because they want to go pro in their chosen sport, ie: surfing, mountain biking, rock climbing, motocross, snowboarding, etc…That’s great, so are you ready to make the investment it takes for them to get to that next level for them to have the opportunity of going pro.It’s one thing to say you support them, but it’s a whole other thing to commit and invest.I’m NOT talking about money, I AM talking about your time, your emotio...2022-10-0206 min
Raising Pro AthletesPushing Your Child in Sports: Protecting Your Kid From You - Sports Parents What's Your Agenda?Protecting your child - this will be repeated over and over again because it is THAT IMPORTANTHowever, in this episode we’re going to be talking about protecting your kids from YOUYeah, you read that right.What am I talking about? Listen to the episode to understand how we can go down wrong rabbit holes start pushing our own agendas on our kids and before we know it, things get out of controlTHIS CAN ALL BE AVOIDED ...________________________________________________2022-10-0106 min
Raising Pro AthletesAre Sports all Glitz and Glamour? Reality of the Sports JourneyIs this going to be all glitz and glamor? Is this going to be champagne popping podiums and huge screams of elation when winning?ABSOLUTELY NOTIs it going to be fun? Is it going to be worth it? More than anything you could ever, ever imagine. The journey. What you all learn along the way. What you and your kid(s) will go through as far as the changes, even if your child never become the elite superstar, will be all that and so much more.2022-09-3003 min