Elite masters champion Britta O'Leary, a member of Georgia Masters, joins us to share her inspiring journey as she transitions into the 40-44 age group. Britta offers an inside look at her recent experiences at the South Carolina Short Course Meters Championships, revealing the delicate balance she maintains between her swimming passion and her bustling personal life. Despite a hectic year filled with extensive travel and family commitments, Britta's story is one of resilience and adaptability. She candidly discusses the challenges she faces and how she manages to keep her training on track through it all. Britta emphasizes the true essence of master swimming—having fun, setting diverse goals, and most importantly, listening to one's body as we age. Britta swam in college at the University of Miami, Florida.

Swimming as a lifelong sport is a central theme in our conversation, with Britta highlighting the flexibility it offers. The episode underscores that it's perfectly fine to step away when life demands it, knowing that the pool is always there when you’re ready to return. The beauty of master swimming lies in its accessibility, allowing enthusiasts to re-engage at any time, whether it's once a week or more. Britta's insights remind us of the profound fitness and community benefits that even a small connection to the sport can provide. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Britta for sharing her experiences and wish her the best in her ongoing swimming journey and future pursuits. Tune in to be inspired by Britta’s unwavering commitment to keeping the joy of swimming alive.

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

Send us a text

Coach Dudley Duncan, a legend with over five decades on the pool deck, joins us to unravel the art of swimming and the strategic nuances of racing. Promising a fresh perspective, Coach Duncan underscores the importance of keeping the sport playful, even as athletes become more goal-oriented. His new book, "The Art of Swimming and the Game of Racing," offers strategic insights for swimmers and coaches aiming to elevate their skills and perhaps manage their own swimming clubs. Whether you're an aspiring swimmer or a seasoned coach, this episode guarantees lessons that will inspire a playful yet strategic approach to racing.

We also explore the world of master swimmers, where the motivations and challenges differ vastly from those of younger athletes. Coach Duncan shines a light on the empowering environments of master meets, where camaraderie and personal strategies help adult swimmers rediscover joy in competition. He reminds hesitant swimmers of the supportive nature of these gatherings, encouraging them to embrace racing without the pressures of youth, focusing on personal strategy and enjoyment.

As we navigate the themes of process, preparation, and mindset, Coach Duncan shares anecdotes of coaching athletes to Olympic levels, illustrating the power of mental rehearsal and focus. From Olympians Whitney Hedgepeth's and Rada Owen's journey to Dudley’s own experiences in pool ownership, this episode is rich with insights on maintaining excellence in the sport. Whether discussing the entrepreneurial side of pool management or the benefits of outdoor swimming, Coach Duncan’s philosophy centers on staying present and encouraging excellence, offering a comprehensive guide for both athletes and coaches alike. Dive in and listen to be inspired!

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

What if the key to swimming faster in 2025 lies in how you navigate the holiday season? In this energizing episode of Champion’s Mojo, hosts Kelly Palace and Maria Parker share eight actionable strategies to maintain fitness and motivation between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. With the average American gaining up to 10 pounds during the holidays, they provide expert advice on avoiding setbacks and staying on track to crush your fitness goals.

From setting a January swim meet as your motivation to practical tips like keeping tempting foods out of reach, Kelly and Maria dive deep into the art of balancing holiday indulgence with athletic discipline. They highlight how inspirational reads and listens can spark your drive and discuss the importance of yoga, stretching, and body work to enhance recovery and prevent injuries.

Whether you're aiming to shed a few pounds, build strength, or simply stay consistent, this episode offers valuable insights and a fresh perspective on making the most of the holidays to set the stage for your best year yet. Don’t miss this motivational roadmap to finishing 2024 Strong and making 2025 stronger, leaner, and faster!

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

What happens when life's challenges pull you away from your passion, only to lead you back years later with a renewed sense of purpose? Michele Kuvin Kupfer, a former member of the 1980 Israeli Olympic swim team and filmmaker, invites us into her world—a world where swimming was once both an escape and a refuge. Despite facing hurdles due to her Jewish background and personal struggles, Michelle's return to the pool as she approached 60 is a story of resilience and transformation.

Her journey back to the Maccabiah Games in 2022 alongside her Israeli teammates highlights the enduring power of sport to heal. Michele is the Co-Director and Executive Producer of the new film Parting the Waters, a Feature-length documentary about trauma, hope, and courage. Besides being a documentary filmmaker Michele is also a behavioral therapist, and educational consultant. She is the co-founder of Difference Diaries, a documentary short film series focused on adolescents and young adults with chronic illness.

We also explore the historical and emotional significance of the Maccabiah Games for Jewish athletes, including the unbreakable bonds forged through shared challenges and triumphs. Michelle’s journey is further amplified through her work in film, where she shares stories of chronic illness and mental health, reflecting her commitment to resilience and community. From overcoming fear to finding joy in new beginnings, this episode celebrates the inclusivity and empowerment swimming offers, inspiring listeners to live fully and embrace life’s possibilities at any stage.

Film website https://www.partingthewatersfilm.com/

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Stevenson, an Olympian (Greece) and world and national holder in Masters swimming, chemistry professor, and long-time volunteer for U.S. Masters Swimming. Chris opens up about his recent return to swimming after a long hiatus due to personal and professional challenges, including the loss of his parents and a demanding role as the Chemistry department chair at the University of Richmond. He discusses how he navigated his time away from the pool, including recovering from a shoulder surgery, and the physical and mental hurdles of getting back into shape after being out of the water for so long.

Chris delves into his reputation for outstanding underwaters, sharing insights on how to develop a strong dolphin kick and improve performance off the walls. He provides practical tips for swimmers of all levels to strengthen their legs and breath control. Chris also reflects on the joys and struggles of balancing swimming with life, emphasizing the importance of setting realistic goals, finding enjoyment in the process, and re-connecting with the social aspects of the sport.

Show Notes:

• Introduction to Chris Stevenson, a celebrated Masters swimmer, volunteer and chemistry professor at the University of Richmond.
• Chris’ journey back to the pool after a long break due to family responsibilities, career demands, and injury recovery.
• Challenges of returning to swimming after years away, including fitness, feel for the water, and breath control.
• Discussion on developing a strong underwater dolphin kick, with tips for swimmers at all levels.
• Reflections on goal-setting, training with a group, and finding motivation in the process.
• How swimming can still be fun and fulfilling despite the inevitable challenges of aging and time away from the sport.
• Chris' passion for chemistry and how it connects to everyday life.

Mentions:

• Anna Lea Matysek, US Masters Volunteer
• Heather Stevenson, US Masters Volunteer
• David Berkoff, Olympic Medalist
• Matt Barany, University of Richmond Swim Coach

Whether you're intimidated by swimming, chemistry, or both, this episode is a celebration of curiosity, perseverance, and the importance of finding joy in pursuits old and new. Join us for a heartwarming and inspiring listen that promises to leave you motivated and enlightened

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

Imagine winning a national swimming championship at 53 and simultaneously preparing to qualify for a senior amateur golf championship--all in the same week. Meet Tricia Good, a phenomenal athlete from the Sarasota Sharks Masters, who shares her surprising journey of triumph at the US Masters Long Course Nationals in Mission Viejo. Learn from her about balancing two demanding sports and the mental strategies she uses to excel in both swimming and golf. With the guidance of her coach, Rick Walker, Tricia's story of returning to swimming for personal fulfillment is a testament to resilience and focus, offering inspiration for those striving for excellence across varied pursuits.

Listen on all your favorite apps!

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

Get ready to be inspired by an extraordinary father-son duo! In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of Ian Neville, a recent Summer National Champion in the 100 breaststroke for men aged 18 to 25, and his father, Richard Neville, a National Champion and World Record Holder in the 65-69 age group. Both are members of the Lone Star Masters Team.

Ian opens up about the inspiration he’s drawn from his dad, and how their shared love for Masters swimming has not only kept them both at the top of their game but also strengthened their bond. Both Ian and Richard have incredible comeback stories, overcoming significant health setbacks to achieve personal bests.

You’ll hear about Ian’s intense training regimen, his dedicated coach, and the incredible support from his local swim community in Utah. Ian reveals how swimming played a vital role in his recovery from a rib resection and a blood clot diagnosis, restoring his strength and mobility. His journey is a powerful testament to perseverance and the importance of support from family and friends.

Richard’s story is equally inspiring. He shares how swimming helped him rebuild his strength after battling non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Whether you’re an aspiring athlete or someone who appreciates stories of resilience, the Nevilles’ journey will motivate you to face your own challenges with grit and determination. Don’t miss this uplifting conversation that celebrates the tenacity and drive of true champions.

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.

27 Year Old Jenna Campbell, a former NCAA D-1 Swimmer at Cal Berkeley is a brand new Masters World Record holder for the 25-29 age group in the 200 long course meters freestyle with a blistering 2:02.06. Join us at the Mission Viejo pool as Jenna opens up about her unexpected triumph and the journey that brought her back to the water as a member of the Colorado Masters. From her competitive days at Cal Berkeley to rediscovering her love for swimming through a triathlon group in Colorado, Jenna's story is one of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of athleticism.

In this special on-deck edition of Champions Mojo, Kelly Palace and Maria Parker explore Jenna's remarkable transition from college swimming to Masters competition. Despite taking a break after college, Jenna achieved an elite time of 2:02 at age 27, close to Olympic trial standards, all while focusing primarily on triathlon training. Listen to her candid reflections on the challenges and joys of returning to the sport that has shaped her life. This episode is packed with inspiration and valuable lessons on how to navigate life's transitions while staying connected to your passion. You'll also enjoy Kelly and Maria's popular "Takeaways" from the interview to help you get your MOJO ON!

Email us at HELLO@ChampionsMojo.com. Opinions discussed are not medical advice, please seek a medical professional for your own health concerns.