Power Forward Mindset

About Power Forward Mindset

Power Forward Mindset with Jackie Reyneke brings short, actionable conversations for student-athletes, parents, and coaches. Learn practical tools to build confidence, manage pressure, grow resilience, and develop the mindset skills that help student-athletes thrive in sports and life.

Publisher

Jackie Reyneke

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

13 Jan 2026

Latest episode

16 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   16 Oct 2026

   Beyond the Game: Finding Your Passions Through Curiosity with Issa Mudashiru | Episode 15

   What happens when the path you planned for yourself starts to change? In Episode 15, Power Forward Founder and Mindset Coach Jackie Reyneke chats with Issa Mudashiru, former Princeton University soccer co-captain and Schwarzman Scholar, to discuss finding your passion, navigating setbacks, and discovering who you are beyond sports.Issa shares his journey from aspiring professional soccer player to exploring new passions in global health, China, and Africa. Through injuries, uncertainty, and mentorship, he learned the importance of staying curious, trusting the process, and embracing the unexpected.In this episode: Finding your passion through curiosity Navigating injuries and changing expectations Managing pressure as a student-athlete Building an identity beyond sports The importance of mentors and community Advice for student-athletes navigating recruiting and their future About Power Forward Mindset: Hosted by Jackie Reyneke, Princeton alum, former Ivy League basketball champion, and mindset coach, the Power Forward Podcast helps student-athletes, parents, and coaches build confidence, manage pressure, and focus on progress over perfection.🌐 Learn more: https://powerforward.coach (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUZZTVljRzZtVGlMblJZMUtYRDFIZHBzendhV3xBSTVJdTV1OVdHWElRei1RTF96WGlQN3p6ZXl2U0xXaEtxcDVrbFpfWGtvRzVHbGxLSUV2M19iMHlxQ180ZVhVYlB2ZG01b3pxbW9FTlJmMU5kbFk5XzJQS2NGVF9SbHBadmRw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fpowerforward.coach%2F&v=-Uv88M95Uug)Mental Health & Well-Being Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, mental health treatment, or counseling. Episodes may explore sensitive topics, including pressure, grief, mental health, and suicide. Take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust when needed.Need support? 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential, 24/7 support. SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for mental health and substance use support and referrals. You don't have to navigate life's challenges alone.#StudentAthlete (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/studentathlete) #Mindset (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/mindset) #PersonalGrowth (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/personalgrowth)

2. 

   30 Sept 2026

   You Don’t Have to Pick One: How Sarah Lessig Built an Identity Beyond Sports | Episode 14

   What if you don’t have to choose between all the things you love? In this episode of the Power Forward Podcast, Jackie Reyneke talks with Sarah Lessig, a Princeton student-athlete whose journey has taken her from playing baseball on boys’ teams to Division I basketball and softball, competitive skateboarding, and Team USA Women’s Baseball. Sarah shares what it has meant to build an identity that goes beyond being an athlete, including the challenges of transitioning to college, navigating a difficult freshman year, managing the demands of being a two-sport college athlete, and finding confidence through curiosity and self-expression. They also talk about the value of playing multiple sports, avoiding burnout, finding hobbies outside of athletics, building a strong support system, and staying true to yourself when there isn’t a clear blueprint for your path. Sarah’s advice to her younger self? Find what you love, stick to it, and don’t let anyone discourage you from pursuing all the things you love. There may be a path that includes all of them. A conversation about confidence, identity, pressure, resilience, and what it means to become more than the role you play. In this episode: Building an identity beyond your sport Sarah’s unconventional path to Princeton Playing baseball on boys’ teams Becoming a Division I basketball and softball athlete Representing Team USA in Women’s Baseball The transition from high school to college athletics Getting through a difficult freshman year Confidence, self-discovery, and curiosity Why multiple sports can help prevent burnout Finding grounding through music, skateboarding, and other interests The importance of friends, family, teammates, and community Advice for young athletes who feel pressure to choose one path

3. 

   1 Jul 2026

   Jesse Ogren | Leading by Example | Episode 13

   Jesse (McDonough) Ogren is the oldest of five girls, and that role has shaped so much of who she is: the way she shows up, the way she leads, and how people naturally turn to her for guidance. She grew up on the Jersey Shore and went on to play soccer at Princeton University, where she became a two-time captain and Ivy League champion. She played professionally in France and earned a master's in Exercise Science and Health Promotion, with a concentration in sport psychology and rehabilitation science. After playing professionally for four years, an ACL injury forced her to step away from the game and move back to the States.Now, she's a Director of Mentoring at Command Education, where she helps guide students through one of the most high-pressure times in their lives - supporting them in building confidence and clarity as they apply to colleges.Chapters00:00 - Welcome and episode overview00:22 - Introduction to Jesse Ogren's background and achievements01:22 - Jesse’s early journey in soccer and the evolutionary path through Princeton and France02:56 - Reflecting on the unplanned nature of Jesse’s career and open doors04:08 - The significance of unexpected opportunities and seizing them05:09 - Jesse’s experience with her sister Sam’s Princeton soccer journey06:18 - How small moments can lead to big opportunities in sports07:40 - The mindset of recognizing opportunities and remaining adaptable08:25 - Growing up as the oldest of five and family influences on leadership09:22 - Shifting leadership roles as Jesse’s family grew older10:22 - Supporting and cheering for her siblings and parents' approach to parenting11:26 - Transitioning leadership style as Jesse’s role within her family evolved12:16 - How Jesse’s leadership on her soccer team mirrored her family role13:11 - The challenges and growth in her role as team captain at Princeton14:20 - Playing supportive roles versus outspoken leadership in sports15:43 - The experience of playing multiple positions and learning to lead by example16:39 - Recognizing different leadership styles within team dynamics17:21 - Transition from collegiate sport to professional soccer abroad17:51 - The cultural and emotional adjustments of moving to France19:17 - Building camaraderie in a foreign country and the lifelong lessons learned21:01 - Chasing a high-level goal and the profound impact of tearing her ACL21:54 - The emotional and physical toll of injury and recovery process24:00 - The mindset and resilience needed after injury setbacks25:43 - Finding peace and meaning in setbacks, trusting life’s timing27:14 - The value of leaning on support and rethinking identity beyond sport28:49 - Mentorship for student-athletes navigating pressure and self-discovery29:20 - Practical advice for relieving college recruitment pressure30:35 - Importance of loving the school as much as the sport when choosing colleges31:50 - The significance of long-term happiness over short-term achievements32:22 - One piece of advice Jesse wishes she had at 17 about self-confidence33:13 - Overcoming social pressures and focusing inward during formative years34:46 - Supporting young athletes’ emotional and mental health through coaching35:04 - Building self-belief and internal validation in young people36:14 - Trusting life’s journey and embracing change in career and personal growth37:02 - Reflecting on life lessons and advice for future generations38:08 - The importance of opening up and leaning on others for support39:17 - Connecting with Jesse: social media and professional outreach39:39 - Final reflections and gratitude for sharing this journeyResources & Links:Connect with Jesse:Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/jesseogren/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-mcdonough-72747ba7/)

4. 

   16 Jun 2026

   Tom George | Two-Time Olympic Medalist Mindset | Episode 12

   Tom George is a two-time Olympic medalist and the Great Britain record holder for the fastest-ever two kilometer erg time of 5:39. He won bronze at Tokyo and silver at Paris in the men's pair alongside Ollie Wynne-Griffith, studied politics at Princeton, completed a master's at Cambridge, and is now navigating life after elite sport. Tom shares insights on mindset, teamwork, and resilience from his athletic career, offering valuable lessons for personal growth and high performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tom George and His Journey 02:25 Childhood Sports Experience in Great Britain 05:05 Transitioning to Rowing and Specialization Decisions 07:37 The Pressure of Specialization in Youth Sports 10:10 Parental Influence and Support in Sports 12:59 Building Trust with a Rowing Partner 16:01 Mental Strategies and Sports Psychology 18:24 Reflections on the Paris Race and Moving Forward 21:28 Dealing with Hard Days in Training 23:46 Life After Elite Sports and Future Plans

5. 

   28 May 2026

   Cara Stawicki | Walk-On to World Champion | Episode 11

   Cara Stawicki is a World Champion rower, High-Performance and Leadership Coach, and visionary dedicated to helping unlock the freedom to dream big and perform.She started later than most as a Lehigh University walk-on and battled self-doubt, injuries, and disappointments. Some might have given up, but Cara made a plan that led her to the podium. She now coaches that mentality through her practice Be Brave High Performance. Her calm, thoughtful approach helps athletes and leaders break through mental barriers and build resilience and confidence.Key Topics: Cara's journey from college walk-on to world champion The importance of team and mental resilience Overcoming injuries and setbacks in sports Transition from athlete to coach and mentor Chapters00:00 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wQq6HI3Ahk) Introduction to Cara Stawicki and her journey 01:05 Cara's decision to try rowing and her early experiences 01:31 The appeal of team sports and her love for rowing 05:59 College experience and walking on at Lehigh 07:57 Applying to college and choosing Lehigh 09:32 Freshman year at Lehigh and team dynamics 10:55 Recruiting process for Princeton and college transition 12:17 Challenges of transitioning to college athletics 13:57 Dreams of the Olympics and post-collegiate rowing 14:51 Injuries and setbacks in her rowing career 16:43 Reflections on her long athletic career and evolving values 26:52 Transition to coaching and her focus on mental performance 30:45 Advice to her younger self and closing thoughtsFollow Cara:Website (https://carastawicki.com/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/carastawicki/) LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/cara-stawicki-6059196/) Book a Discovery Call (https://calendly.com/carastawicki/discovery?month=2026-04)

6. 

   12 May 2026

   Olivia Papakyrikos | Chronic Injury to Clinical Care | Episode 10

   Olivia Papakyrikos is a licensed therapist and sport psychology consultant based in Boston. Through her practice Papakyrikos Therapy and Performance, Olivia works with competitive athletes, college students, and high-performing individuals navigating pressure, expectations, and the mental load that comes with showing up at a high level every single day. She has collaborated with athletic teams and departments at schools like Northeastern, UMass Amherst, Tufts, Middlebury, and Harvard, providing integrated psychotherapy and performance psychology services to student-athletes.  Olivia believes performance and mental health are not competing priorities; they're deeply connected.Olivia shares her journey through sports, mental health, and coaching, highlighting the importance of mental skills, managing pressure, and redefining achievement.Chapters00:00 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJVYGLtNxQ8) The Pressure to Perform05:00 Navigating Competition and Comparison09:38 Mental Skills and Performance Anxiety17:24 The Journey Through Injury and Recovery20:55 Coaching Dynamics and Mental Health28:52 The Role of Parents in Sports32:01 Seeking Support and ResourcesFollow Olivia:IG:   / oliviapapakyrikos   (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqa2xrYnJVajVZeVpzOFZ1Y0RBNzM2RGZZVnhZUXxBQ3Jtc0trcjNLeE1vZmFBNjI5STdramxFaXpHaHNLRTJBeE1pVEZWNU5lMVZXaVpkWUhtamp0cDlQUmJacU83dU8zWkFvcXlSa3VoVnA1eFZ5MVd3VG93NGp4Wll0TWhWOG4xYlZ1WnI5YUxnZ0FzMldJTWhKaw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Foliviapapakyrikos%2F&v=TJVYGLtNxQ8)This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, grief, mental health, and suicide, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it. Immediate mental health support is available 24/7, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call/text 988) and SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).

7. 

   28 Apr 2026

   Jess Deutsch | Navigating Grief and Vulnerability | Episode 09

   Jess Deutsch is a Licensed Social Worker who advises and mentors high school and college students, athletes, and young professionals. She also consults with nonprofits in higher education, social impact, high performance athletics and well-being. She's passionate about helping others attain big goals with health and perspective—and has done so both at her alma mater, Princeton University, and in private practice. With elite athletes, pre-med students, or high achievers in general, she helps young people discover their own motivations and define success on their own terms. Jess recently lost her father, two years after losing her younger brother, and rather than shy away from these huge losses, she wanted to show up and talk about them. We'll also talk about the grief that often goes unspoken—a career-ending injury, stepping away from a sport, or closing a chapter you didn't choose to close.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grief and Loss02:10 Personal Stories of Grief05:23 The Impact of Loss on Identity07:57 Navigating Grief and Vulnerability12:08 Understanding Grief in Sports17:00 The Unspoken Grief of Athletes20:40 Finding Support and Connection23:11 Looking Forward and Moving On Follow Jess IG (https://www.instagram.com/jess.deutsch/) LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessdeutsch/) Substack (https://jessdeutschwriting.substack.com/?utm_source=global-search) References: All There Is with Anderson Cooper (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6XRrncXkMaULVlEOUeCtU4M5_rQGblye) The Daily Buddhist (https://www.instagram.com/daily.buddhist/) This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, grief, mental health, and suicide, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it. Immediate mental health support is available 24/7, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call/text 988) and SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).

8. 

   14 Apr 2026

   Bella Alarie | Standing Tall | Episode 08

   Bella Alarie is the 2017 Ivy League Rookie of the Year, a three-time Player of the Year, an All-American, and the fifth overall pick in the 2020 WNBA draft. Bella competed at the highest levels of the game - at Princeton, with the Dallas Wings in the WNBA, in the EuroLeague, and for Team USA. After her playing career, she coached at Georgetown while earning a master's degree in sports industry management. Now she's using her experience to help build The IX Sports, a women's sports media platform. Follow Bella! @bella_alarie (https://www.instagram.com/bella_alarie/) Follow The IX Sports: @theixsports (https://www.instagram.com/theixsports/) This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, and mental health, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it.

9. 

   31 Mar 2026

   Cat Caro George | Finding Purpose After Injury | Episode 07

   Cat Caro George grew up in New Jersey excelling in the classroom while starring on the USA Field Hockey Junior National Team. She went on to play (and win a lot) at Princeton University where she studied Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. Cat is no stranger to adversity as she suffered multiple knee injuries while playing for Team USA after graduation. Her passion for understanding nutrition's role in recovery (and her husband) led her to London to pursue a Masters of Science in Nutrition and PhD in preconception health and lifestyle behaviors. Discover practical insights on resilience, mental health, and reaching your highest potential. Follow Cat! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catcaroLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinevcaro/ This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, and mental health, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it.

10. 

    17 Mar 2026

    Tara Madigan | Building Champions On and Off the Field | Episode 06

    Tara Madigan recently retired as the Northern Highlands Regional High School girls soccer coach with a record of 384-55-12, including three straight undefeated seasons. She grew up in North Jersey setting records at her high school, then played Division I soccer at Monmouth University and the University of Delaware. She earned her Master of Education and spent her career as a Health and Physical Education teacher while always coaching and inspiring others to be their best versions of themselves. She recently launched MADE (Madigan Athletic Development and Education) to continue developing the next generation of leaders — on and off the field. In this conversation, Tara opens up about her competitive upbringing, the philosophy behind her record-breaking coaching career, and why building a lasting culture matters more than winning. We talk about what it really means to develop athletes — not just their skills, but their ability to think, lead, and respond when things get hard. If you're a coach, athlete, or anyone who believes sports are about more than the scoreboard, this one's for you. Follow Tara & MADE: @madetobechampionsmadetobechampions.com This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, and mental health, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it.

11. 

    4 Mar 2026

    Kelly Holtz | Fueling for Performance | Episode 05

    Kelly Holtz, a registered dietitian with a focus in sports nutrition and women's health, shares insights on fueling for optimal athletic performance, recognizing signs of under-fueling, and breaking food rules to support health and performance. Kelly shares practical tips for athletes, parents, and coaches to enhance nutrition strategies and promote a healthy relationship with food. Follow Kelly: @kellynutritionco This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, and mental health, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it.

12. 

    17 Feb 2026

    Leslie Robinson | Trusting Your Gut | Episode 04

    Leslie Robinson, a former D1 and professional basketball player, shares her upbringing in a sports-oriented family, her journey at Princeton University, and her transitions into the professional basketball and corporate worlds. Leslie shares valuable insights on teamwork, the importance of self-assurance, as well as advice for aspiring athletes and their parents. Follow Leslie: @les_ismore45 This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, and mental health, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it.

13. 

    4 Feb 2026

    Kellie Cope | Recognizing REDs | Episode 03

    Kellie Cope joins us in celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day! Kellie is the founder of Her First Athletics and Her Huddle and a female athlete health and nutrition educator. We discuss challenges female athletes face regarding body image, nutrition, and mental health. Kellie shares her personal journey with eating disorders and the importance of fostering a supportive environment for young athletes. We emphasize the need for education, awareness, and open communication among coaches, parents, and athletes to promote healthier relationships with food and body image. Follow Her First Athletics: @herfirstathletics This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, and mental health, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it.

14. 

    27 Jan 2026

    Damon McLean | The Future is Human | Episode 02

    Damon McLean, a former track and field athlete and current tech professional, shares his journey from rural Jamaica to Princeton University and beyond. We discuss the importance of education, mentorship, and the pressures faced by young athletes. Damon shares insights on managing performance pressure, the significance of identity beyond sports, and the need for fun in athletic pursuits. He also highlights the role of mental tools and self-awareness in achieving success, as well as his current endeavors in creating supportive spaces for people to connect. You can follow Damon at: @damonamclean @joinsoulsessions @adakathletic This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, and mental health, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it.

15. 

    13 Jan 2026

    Blake Dietrick Seifert | Building Confidence Through Hard Work | Episode 01

    In our first episode of the Power Forward Mindset podcast, we welcome Blake Dietrick Seifert, a former professional basketball player and current MBA student. Blake shares her journey from a competitive upbringing in Wellesley, Massachusetts, to her record-breaking career at Princeton University and her experiences in the WNBA and 3X3 basketball. We dive into the importance of mindset, the role of parents and coaches, and the challenges of transitioning from athletics to other life pursuits. Blake shares valuable insights on building confidence, the significance of teamwork, and the lessons learned throughout her athletic career. This podcast is designed to support growth, build confidence, and spark honest conversations, but it is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. We discuss topics like pressure, performance, and mental health, which may feel personal or sensitive at times. Please take what resonates, move at your own pace, and seek support from a qualified professional or someone you trust if you need it.

Contact Power Forward Mindset

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.