Shows
Pressing Forward PodcastGetting Real About Your Game: The Power of Self-Evaluation for AthletesSend us a textIn 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 pushin...
2025-12-0910 min
The Rooted Athlete Podcast"Progress Over Perfection" | Nowoola Awopetu, Founder of Pressing ForwardPressing Forward, what does that mean to you? Probably something along the lines of always growing, pushing through adversity and overcoming challenges. Today's episode talks all about those concepts. We dive into how these experiences as athletes have shaped us into who we are today and how we can create our own "lane" outside of the field. Using this simple concept of "progress over perfection" Nowoola has created his lane and has found his passion outside of football. Don't forget to subscribe and share this with a friend! Find Nowoola Here:https://www.instagram.c...
2024-04-2226 minPressing Forward PodcastRewiring the Mind: How Mindfulness Transforms the Brain with Dr. TetreaultSend us a textAnxiety disorders affects 40 million adults , ages 18 and older every year.On this week’s episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with Dr. Nicole Tetreault — neuroscientist, author, international speaker, and meditation teacher — to discuss the transformative power of mindfulness. Together, they unpack how mindfulness reduces anxiety, shapes the brain, and helps us cultivate greater peace and awareness in everyday life.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 Impact...
2023-02-2827 min
Pressing Forward PodcastRise Above Judgment: Building Courage and Confidence | Nowoola Awopetu | Pressing Forward PodcastSend us a text"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 l...
2022-12-1908 min
Pressing Forward PodcastPerforming Under Pressure: Dr. Nancy Graber on Anxiety and Peak PerformanceSend us a textThis week on The Pressing Forward Podcast, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with Dr. Nancy Graber, sport and performance consultant and licensed mental health counselor, to discuss managing performance anxiety. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Graber shares strategies to help athletes, musicians, and professionals show up as their best selves when it matters most.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/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwRA...
2022-12-1222 minPressing Forward PodcastThe Hidden Struggle: Trey Johnson on NFL Life and Losing Yourself in the SportSend us a textOn this episode, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with NFL veteran Trey Johnson, who shares his experience with athletic burnout after reaching the pinnacle of professional football. Trey opens up about losing himself in the pursuit of the dream, the realities of overtraining, and how he has worked to rediscover balance and purpose.His name is "AlcatreyIsland" on all platforms, feel free to give him a follow @Alcatreyisland!FOLLOW THE Pressing Forward Podcast:INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/TWITTER | https://twitter.com/pressingforward3TIKTOK...
2022-12-0534 min
Pressing Forward Podcast4 Things I Wish I Knew as a Younger Athlete | Nowoola AwopetuSend us a textThis weeks episode is centered around “4 Things I Wish I Knew As a Younger Athlete”. 1. Understand and Appreciate Patience2. Leave no stones unturned3. Not to Base Entire Identity in Being an Athlete4. Be YourselfBe 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/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwRAPPLE PODCASTS | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwRFOLLOW the Pressing Forward Podcas...
2022-11-2810 min
Pressing Forward PodcastExecution Over Everything: Turning Plans Into Reality | Nowoola AwopetuSend us a textOn 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!Be Sure to LIKE , SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EPISODES! Keep up with Nowoola on his socials as well INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/nawopetu/FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE THE Pressing Forward Podcast:INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwRAPPLE PODCASTS | https://op...
2022-11-2110 min
Pressing Forward PodcastBoundaries 101: How to Protect Your Energy and Relationships w Latiesha WigginsSend us a textOn this week’s episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with Latiesha Wiggins to discuss setting effective boundaries in relationships. They explore overcoming people-pleasing tendencies, maintaining limits, and thriving while protecting your energy and well-being.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 Cl...
2022-11-1428 min
Pressing Forward PodcastChasing Goals: From Brooklyn to Miami FC With Boluwatife AkinyodeSend us a textOn this episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with professional soccer player Boluwatife Akinyode. He shares his journey from growing up in Nigeria to moving to Brooklyn, NY, rising to the pro ranks, and staying focused on his goals while keeping 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 (On...
2022-11-0729 min
Pressing Forward PodcastThe Impact of Trauma: Cultural, Parental, and Personal Perspectives With LPC Hillary Aponte-ChimelisSend us a textOn this episode, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with LPC Hillary Aponte-Chimelis to discuss trauma, its effects, and the role culture plays in shaping our experiences. Hillary shares guidance for parents, practical strategies for healing, and insights on navigating trauma in daily life.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...
2022-10-3126 min
Pressing Forward PodcastLife After College Sports: Tobi Joshuaville on Transition and RelationshipsSend us a textOn this episode, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with Tobi Joshuaville, former student-athlete at Rosemont College and current NCAA Post-Grad Intern. Tobi shares his journey navigating a PWI, forming meaningful relationships, and adjusting to new environments while transitioning from college athletics to professional life.Be Sure to LIKE , SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EPISODES! Keep up with Tobi on his socials as well INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/kicking_it_with_tob/FOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE THE Pressing Forward Podcast:INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/SP...
2022-10-1733 min
Pressing Forward Podcast25 Years of Insight: Dr. Taunya Tinsley on Supporting Athletes and StudentsSend us a textOn this episode of The Pressing Forward Podcast, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with Dr. Taunya Tinsley to discuss her athletic journey, the importance of the therapeutic alliance, and common misconceptions around mental health. With over 25 years of experience working with athletes and in academia, Dr. Tinsley offers invaluable insights on supporting mental health in diverse settings.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...
2022-10-1031 min
Pressing Forward PodcastThe Crossover: Greg Senat’s Path from D1 Basketball to the NFLSend us a textOn 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 journeyBe Sure to LIKE , SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE EPISODESFOLLOW THE Pressing Forward Podcast:INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/SPOTIFY | https...
2022-10-0340 min
Pressing Forward PodcastFrom NFL to Impact: Jeremiah Brown on Mentorship and Making a DifferenceSend us a textOn this episode, Host Nowoola Awopetu sits down with Jeremiah Brown, former NFL player turned life coach, motivational speaker, and Dean of Students. Jeremiah shares his journey of turning adversity into purpose, the importance of mentorship, and the dedication required to bring your dreams to life.FOLLOW THE Pressing Forward Podcast:INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/TWITTER | https://twitter.com/pressingforward3TIKTOK | https://tiktok.com/@pressingforwardpod SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwRAPPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
2022-08-1542 min
Pressing Forward PodcastBreaking the Silence: Athlete Mental Health and Suicide Awareness with LexiSend us a textHost Nowoola Awopetu sits down with Lexi, founder of Athlete Second, to discuss the importance of mental health awareness in sports. They cover suicide prevention, warning signs, and practical ways to support athletes both on and off the field. Follow her on instagram @athletesecond! FOLLOW THE Pressing Forward Podcast:INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/pressingforward/TWITTER | https://twitter.com/pressingforward3TIKTOK | https://tiktok.com/@pressingforwardpod SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5hVjowetLrUJSiTsTb1hwRAPPLE PODCASTS | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pressing-forward-podcast/id1632445416
2022-08-0830 minPressing Forward PodcastPerfectionism, Pressure, and Performance: Insights From a Sports Psychologist, Dr.NeffSend us a textHost, 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. LIKE, SHARE, & SUBSCRIBE!IG: @dr.rick.neff, @pressingforwardYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK6OGbjxT980gZYAFKnlRLg
2022-08-0142 min
Pressing Forward PodcastOlympic Journey: How Faith and Family Fueled Crystal Weekes’ SuccessSend us a textHost, 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, subscribeIG: @pressingforwardFOLLOW the Pressing Forward PodcastStay connected and never miss an episode: 📸 Instagram | @pressingforward🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3🎧 Spotify | Listen on Spotify🍎 Apple Podcasts | Listen on Apple Podcasts 🌐 Website | pressingforwardpe...
2022-07-2553 min
Pressing Forward Podcast"Mental Health Battles, NIL, & Financial Knowledge" | NFL Vet | Trey JohnsonSend us a textOn 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!FOLLOW the Pressing Forward PodcastStay connected and never miss an episode: 📸 Instagram | @pressingforward🐦 Twitter | @pressingforward3🎧 Spotify | Listen on...
2022-07-181h 05Pressing Forward PodcastPlayer, Champion, Coach: An NFL Journey of Grit and Growth w Marquand ManuelSend us a textHost Nowoola Awopetu sits down with an 8-year NFL veteran, Super Bowl Champion, and current New York Jets safeties coach to talk about the journey of life on the field, in coaching, and the role adversity plays in shaping who we become.FOLLOW the Pressing Forward PodcastStay 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 yo...
2022-07-1143 minPressing Forward PodcastCoping With an Injury: The Mental Game Every Athlete Faces | Nowoola AwopetuSend us a textIn this episode, Nowoola Awopetu opens up about the challenges of coping with an injury as an athlete. He shares personal reflections on how setbacks impact mental health and offers insights on resilience, identity, and pressing forward through difficult seasons.FOLLOW the Pressing Forward PodcastStay 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...
2022-07-0419 min
Pressing Forward Podcast"Finding Your Identity Outside of the Game" as an Athlete w Nowoola AwopetuSend us a textThe 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!FOLLOW the Pressing Forward PodcastStay 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...
2022-06-2713 min