Educate to Elevate

In this episode of educate to elevate we recap season 2. Each of us share our highlights over the last 12 episodes and remind you of some key practical takeaways. We also provide a small preview in what to expect for season 3... We can't wait to get back together again soon, until then please make sure you reach out if you have any content you want to know more about!

In this follow up episode we dive into the recovery post event/ game. The first 24 hours post activity is key and there are some really simple ways to maximise this process. We dive into the recovery pyramid - what are the foundational recovery techniques and what are the 1%ers. Join us as we help you develop your own recovery plan, backed by scientific principles.

In this episode we discuss the ins and outs of preparing for performance. If you have ever wondered what the 24 hours before competition should look like, listen in for all the tips. We dive into: - Physical activity in the lead up to competition - Nutrition the day and hours leading into competition - Sleep and rest - Individual warm ups - Cognitive preparation > to screen or not to screen... tha...

In this episode of Educate to Elevate, we’re diving into the world of neurodivergence with educational and developmental psychologist, Remi. Neurodivergence – including ADHD, autism, and other cognitive differences – is becoming more widely recognized in young athletes, but why does it seem more common now than it did 20 years ago? Are we better at identifying it, or have the pressures of modern s...

Today's podcast is talking about the initiative that Swimming Australia developed by Sports Dietitian's Ali Disher and Fiona Sutherland. In this podcast we explore the intersection between body empowerment, education, and athlete safety. We dive deep into the importance of understanding and nurturing our bodies, not just physically but mentally and emotionally. Through insightful conversations, we...

In this episode, we dive into the complex relationship between the menstrual cycle and athletic performance. As a sports dietitian, Bec Disher, explores how hormonal fluctuations throughout the cycle can affect energy levels, strength, endurance, and recovery in female athletes. Our special guest, Pelvic physiotherapist specialist, Alex Diggles, and Bec discuss how different phases of the cycle —...

In this episode, sports dietitian Bec Disher and athlete well-being specialist Sharyn Donaghy delve into the complexities of body image in the world of athletics. Body image plays a significant role in an athlete’s mental and physical performance, yet it is often overlooked or misunderstood. From the pressures of meeting performance standards to dealing with societal expectations, we explore how b...

In this episode, we’re joined by Rajeev and Matty, two remarkable individuals whose journeys exemplify the power of resilience, vision, and holistic development in sport. Rajeev shares his experiences as an Olympian, and a coach, while Matty takes us through his inspiring transition from a top-ranked junior sprinter to a coach and entrepreneur. Together, we’ll discuss the pivotal roles parents and...

In this episode of Educate to Elevate, we sit down with Kim Knox, co-founder of IMPI Sportswear, to explore the journey behind creating a brand designed to empower teen and tween girls through activewear that fuses function, fashion, and fit. IMPI Sportswear isn’t just about clothes—it’s about cultivating confidence, resilience, and community among young athletes. Kim shares the challenges and tri...

In this episode we’re joined by Alexandra Diggles, a specialist physiotherapist in pelvic health. With expertise spanning bladder and bowel dysfunction, pelvic pain, pregnancy-related conditions, and more, Alexandra shares invaluable insights into the often-overlooked but critical role of pelvic health in athletic development. This episode dives into the intersection of pelvic health and sports, h...

Tammy Baart, a proud Boorooberongal Dharug woman, dedicated to educating, advocating for, and empowering individuals to exceed their own expectations. With over two decades of executive educational leadership experience, she is driven by a passion to identify and bridge gaps in systems, ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities for success. In this episode Tammy takes us through her own s...

Mariafe Artacho del Solar from her humble beginnings in Peru to her rise as an Olympic medallist, and uncover the lessons she’s learned along the way that continue to motivate her both on and off the sand. Mariafe’s career is a testament to her dedication and hard work. She has represented Australia on the world stage, competing in multiple World Championships, Commonwealth Games, and Olympic Game...

Today the team provide a three-prong approach to preparing well and preparing early for back to school demands. Shaz shares some ideas on how to ensure athletes and families can organise and communicate schedules effectively by including all key stakeholders in discussion. G touches on the impact of time off, while rest is important and necessary, athletes and coaches need to manage the reloading...

Join us as we recap our first season of Educate to Elevate. We also provide some insights into season 2, coming 2025! Thanks for all the support so far!

Allira Rogers is a highly experienced sport psychologist dedicated to helping young athletes unlock their potential and thrive in high-performance environments. With a wealth of expertise spanning mental skills training, performance psychology, and holistic athlete development, Allira supports athletes, parents, and coaches in navigating the mental challenges of sport. In this episode, Allira shar...

Dr Carissa Gardiner discusses the importance of sleep and recovery acknowledging that it does not matter what technology or “hacks” you use if you aren’t doing the basics right then you aren’t setting yourself up for success. We dive into the sleep cycle and the importance of different stages on muscle vs brain recovery and further understand the difference between quality versus the quantity of s...

In this powerful episode, we welcome Amy Parmenter, a trailblazer in the world of elite netball and an inspiring advocate for resilience, education, and giving back. Amy shares her extraordinary journey, from grassroots sport to professional netball, weaving in the pivotal moments that shaped her as an athlete and leader. This episode highlights Amy's insights on overcoming adversity, fostering le...

In this episode, its just the 3 of us and Sharyn is leading the conversation on athlete wellbeing and transition. Today, Sharyn shares highlights from a recent Wellbeing Summit, unpacking the latest insights into supporting young athletes both on and off the field. From navigating the pressures of high-performance environments to fostering resilience and maintaining balance, Sharyn offers actionab...

In this episode, we’re joined by Danielle Spitty, a wellbeing practitioner with firsthand experience in the world of elite sports. Danielle’s journey began in the high-performance and elite pathways of water polo and netball, where she excelled until a career-ending injury at 22 changed her trajectory. Now, she leverages her experiences to support athletes in netball and AFLW, focusing on mental h...

In this episode we are discussing all things nutrition and how to best support athletes to prepare, perform and recover. Rebecca Disher, our resident sports dietician provides us with some great insights into pre/post training fuel, simple go-to tools for packing lunchboxes and provides advice for parents and coaches that are navigating the nutrition space. We discuss the implications of not eatin...

Katie Walker is an all-round wonderful human and a celebrated figure in Australian netball, renowned for her dynamic career as a professional athlete and her dedication to fostering talent as a coach. With over two decades of experience in high-performance sport, Katie embodies the roles of leader, mentor, and parent, providing a unique perspective on the journey of young athletes. As a mother to...

In our second episode, we sit down together to discuss a few hot topics surrounding youth athletes. This episode aims to inform and educate parents, coaches, and athletes, on what the research tells us about early specialisation and what happens during key adolescent growth periods. We know there a plenty of "don'ts" surrounding the young athlete but this episode starts to explain the "why" and pr...

In this first episode, we sit down with Nicole Livingstone – a remarkable individual whose accomplishments span from Australian Olympic swimmer to sports commentary, heading AFLW, and now is the incoming new CEO of the Victorian Institute of Sport (VIS). Nicole is also a mother of three and a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in sports. This episode aims to inform and inspire parents...

Welcome to our podcast - Educate to Elevate, a podcast for young athletes, parents and coaches. Our podcast delves into critical factors that shape athletic success, from the earliest stages of development to the elite level. Each episode will focus on a specific theme, breaking down concepts into actionable insights and providing resources to help listeners implement to strategies discussed.