The Empowered Performance for Curlers Podcast

March 2026 Recap: Offseason Shift, Fundamentals & Where to Start This month's recap is all about the limbo season when we start to wrap up the competitive season and step into the offseason with intention. In this episode, I'm sharing what the shift has looked like on my end, from finishing up on-ice sessions to leaning back into running and rebuilding my aerobic base (with a big focus on nasal breathing and honest reflection around where my fitness is at right now). We'll also get into what this time of year actually means for curlers. The offseason isn't about doing nothing or doing everything; it's about having a plan. I'm breaking down what we're working on inside the EP Lab with Fundamentals, why that matters, and how to think about your own next steps depending on where you're at. If you're feeling a bit lost, unmotivated, or unsure what to do now that the season is winding down, this episode will help you reset and move forward with direction. I'll also walk you through my free Assessment Week and the different ways you can train with me this offseason, whether you want structure, flexibility, or full 1-on-1 support. Short, real, and focused. Exactly what you need right now. Episodes you don't want to miss: Episode 04: Don't make these same training mistakes Episode 15: Effort over outcome Episode 28: Using Performance Gap Analysis to dictate training To stay as up-to-date as possible, make sure to join the Empowered Performance newsletter and to follow me on Instagram at @empoweredperformance All mentioned resources are available in the show notes on my website at www.empoweredperformance.ca/podcast

February 2026 Recap: Certification, TV Curling & What's Next This is the first episode in a new monthly format; a short and sweet recap of what's been happening behind the scenes in my world and inside Empowered Performance. In this February review, I'm walking you through a big professional milestone (getting officially certified as a Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism Coach), a much-needed family golf and beach vacation, and how my brain is already shifting toward offseason planning for curlers. I'm also sharing what's happening inside the EP Lab right now: what we've been focusing on during this in-season block, and what's coming next as we move into Fundamentals and Level 2 progressions. Plus, a quick look at what I'm watching (hello, the Brier & Paralympics), what I'm listening to, and a plea for your best sci-fi and fantasy book recommendations because the DNF streak is real. If you enjoy behind-the-scenes updates, training insights, and staying connected to the bigger picture of your development as a curler, this monthly recap will be your quick hit of direction and momentum. Don't miss out on these past episodes: ​Episode 07​: Mark Nichols ​Episode 37​: Jill Officer ​Episode 29​: Joanne Courtney To stay as up-to-date as possible, make sure to join the Empowered Performance newsletter and to follow me on Instagram at @empoweredperformance All mentioned resources are available in the show notes on my website at www.empoweredperformance.ca/podcast

Most curlers are chasing better balance, but many are chasing the wrong thing. In this episode, we break down what real balance looks like in the curling delivery and why it has far less to do with wobble-free broomless slides than you might think. We talk about: • Why poor balance drains your physical and mental energy • The hidden alignment issues that affect accuracy and weight control • Why I don't recommend sliding without a broom as a drill • The key joints that need mobility and strength for a stable slide • How setup in the hack dictates everything that follows • The role of pressure, timing, and "four points of contact" (yes you can 'lean' on the broom/rock!) If you've ever felt unstable, inconsistent, or unsure where your balance issues come from, this episode gives you the clarity you've been missing — and a few simple cues you can start using right away. If you want more support in building strength, mobility, balance, and confidence all season long, check out the Empowered Performance Lab for structured training, brushing work, mobility sessions, and on-ice practice tools tailored for real-life curlers. Some other great episodes to check out: Episode 89: Holiday Survival Guide Episode 49: Limbo time and types of rest Episode 16: Getting lower in your slide is a distraction To stay as up-to-date as possible, make sure to join the Empowered Performance newsletter and to follow me on Instagram at @empoweredperformance All mentioned resources are available in the show notes on my website at www.empoweredperformance.ca/podcast

Worried about losing progress over the holidays? You're not alone — but time off the ice doesn't have to set you back. In this episode, we break down a simple Holiday Survival Guide to help you use the break to rest, reset, and return to the ice feeling stronger and more focused. We'll cover how to: • Reframe time off as productive recovery • Reduce curling-specific imbalances • Approach holiday eating without guilt • Stay mentally sharp with quick, anywhere visualization work If you want support staying active and balanced during the holiday stretch, you'll also hear what's coming up inside the Empowered Performance Lab. Tune in to learn how to make this off-ice time work for you, not against you. Some other great episodes to check out: Episode 48: Sassy hips and energy leaks Episode 65: 5 reasons you aren't a better brusher Episode 26: It's not how you train, it's how you recover To stay as up-to-date as possible, make sure to join the Empowered Performance newsletter and to follow me on Instagram at @empoweredperformance All mentioned resources are available in the show notes on my website at www.empoweredperformance.ca/podcast

In this episode, I'm joined by World Champion curler, mom, and Registered Psychotherapist Sarah Wilkes, who brings a rare and valuable dual perspective to the world of sport — one from the ice, and one from the therapist's chair. Currently playing lead on the #1 ranked team in the world and fresh off a World Championship win, Sarah's path hasn't been a straight line. We explore the emotional intensity she's carried since her early days, the influence of her multi-sport background, and the tools she's developed to stay grounded, curious, and consistently high-performing. We also dive into her evolution from fastball to elite curling, her shift into psychotherapy and supporting athletes through a mental health lens, and the difference between mental toughness and true wellness. Sarah shares how curiosity helps shift pressure into presence, how she balances high-level competition with motherhood and team connection, and what it really means to support your whole self — not just the athlete part. Whether you're a competitive curler, a coach, or simply someone looking to approach sport (and life) with more intention, this conversation is packed with insight, heart, and practical takeaways. 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts or visit: www.empoweredperformance.ca/podcast Listen to other top interviews: Episode 07: Mark Nichols Episode 29: Joanne Courtney Episode 87: Val Sweeting 📲 Connect with me on Instagram: @empoweredperformance 📰 Join the newsletter for more tools, tips, and resources to support your performance journey.