Episodes

  • Future Focus: Fostering Archery at the Rocky Mountain Classic
    Dec 22 2025

    Dawn Groszko: Fostering Archery at the Rocky Mountain Classic


    In this episode of The Archery Parent Podcast, Manisha welcomes Dawn Grozsko, Archer, coach, and organizer of the the Rocky Mountain Classic.


    The event, scheduled for January 2nd to 4th, 2026, welcomes Archers under 25. Dawn highlights its unique offerings, including match play and team events, which are rare for youth tournaments in Canada.


    This episode covers the tournament's evolution, registration details, and what first-time participants can expect. It also emphasizes the importance of youth development in Canada and provides practical travel tips for Archers attending.


    This episode will be released after the deadline for 2026. If you’re still interested in attending, contact event organizers, or plan on attending in 2027.


    00:00 Welcome to the Archery Parent Podcast

    00:56 Introducing Dawn Grozsko and the Rocky Mountain Classic

    01:23 The Origin and Evolution of the Rocky Mountain Classic

    02:39 Event Details and Logistics

    04:36 The Importance of Match Play in Archery

    06:14 Core Values and Mission of the Rocky Mountain Classic

    10:15 Categories and Bow Disciplines

    16:11 NASP and Youth Archery Programs

    17:37 Ensuring a Fun and Supportive Environment

    20:04 Life Skills and Feedback from the Rocky Mountain Classic

    21:23 Advice for First-Time Rocky Mountain Classic Parents

    22:03 The Importance of Youth Development

    22:54 Encouraging Positive Mindsets in Young Archers

    26:51 The Role of Volunteers in Archery Events

    28:07 Preparing for Away Tournaments

    34:41 Travel Tips for Archers

    40:29 Final Thoughts and Encouragement


    Tournament Information & Registration

    • Official Website: jimbowsjuniors.ca
    • Contact Email: jjacshoots{at}gmail.com
    • Location: Abbey Centre, Blackfalds, Alberta (approx. two hours north of Calgary)
    • Facebook Pages for Results:
    • JJAC Facebook Page
    • Archery Alberta Facebook Page


    Official Results:

    • IANSEO: Results will be listed here following the competition



    For a comprehensive recap, extra tips, and resources for this episode and the Rocky Mountain Classic event, visit our blog.


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    For more episodes, visit archeryparentpodcast.ca. We’re doing this one arrow at a time.


    ATTRIBUTION: Permission granted for the use of "The Stranger" by Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum of Wooden Flowers, for Season 1 of "The Archery Parent Podcast".


    MUSIC: "The Stranger"

    ARTIST: Wooden Flowers (Michael Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum)

    ALBUM: "Goldtrails", Gravitas Records

    INSTAGRAM: @giantmetalcrickets @michalmenert

    WEBSITE: https://giantmetalcrickets.bandcamp.com

    YOUTUBE: @giantmetalcrickets2020

    FACEBOOK: Giant Metal Crickets

    Listen to Wooden Flowers "The Stranger" on Spotify and all other streaming platforms

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    43 mins
  • Dr. Jennifer Harris: "SUPER-P" - The Science-backed Solution for Sports Parents
    Dec 1 2025


    Supporting Young Athletes: Insights from Dr. Jennifer Harris on Sport Parenting


    What if the key to your athlete's success isn't more expensive equipment or extra coaching, but changes in YOUR behaviour?


    Dr. Jennifer Harris, founder of Raising Happy Champs, shares her journey from Gymnastics Mom to Sport Psychology PhD, revealing shocking gaps in parent education and the research-backed "SUPER-P Approach" that's transforming how families navigate competitive sports.


    Learn about the Coach-Athlete-Parent Triangle, why expression of pride matters more than analysis, how parental expectations link to athlete anxiety, and practical strategies for supporting your athlete through both triumph and devastating disappointment. Whether your Archer is just starting out or competing internationally, this conversation will change how you show up for them


    The episode concludes with practical travel tips for parents and their athletes and resources for engaging with Dr. Harris's program.


    00:00 Welcome to the Archery Parent Podcast

    00:48 Introducing Dr. Jennifer Harris

    01:38 The Journey of Raising Happy Champs

    02:50 The Importance of Sport Parent Education

    04:14 Developing the SUPER-P Approach

    10:31 The Coach-Athlete-Parent Triangle

    16:04 Parental Expectations and the link to Athlete Anxiety

    22:30 Acknowledging the Challenges of Sport Parenting

    26:28 Parents as Coaches: Balancing Roles and Switching Hats

    27:46 The Importance of Positive Communication between Athlete and Parent

    29:22 The 70% Who Benefit from Sport Parent Education

    30:16 Extreme Behaviours in Sport Parenting

    32:13 The Need for Sport Parent Education

    36:35 The SUPER-P Approach: A Non-Judgmental Workshop

    38:41 Practical Tips for Sport Parents

    39:00 Vision for the “SUPER-P" Program


    Special Offers:

    • Use promo code "archery20" for 20% off a SUPER-P workshop
    • If you refer your club and they book the SUPER-P Club workshop, Raising Happy Champs will send you a £50 Amazon gift card.


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    ATTRIBUTION: Permission granted for the use of "The Stranger" by Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum of Wooden Flowers, as the theme song for "The Archery Parent Podcast".


    MUSIC: "The Stranger"

    ARTIST: Wooden Flowers (Michael Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum)

    ALBUM: "Goldtrails", Gravitas Records

    INSTAGRAM: @giantmetalcrickets @michalmenert

    WEBSITE: https://giantmetalcrickets.bandcamp.com

    YOUTUBE: @giantmetalcrickets2020

    FACEBOOK: Giant Metal Crickets

    Listen to Wooden Flowers "The Stranger" on Spotify and all other streaming platforms

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    49 mins
  • A Parent's Guide to WAYC (Winnipeg 2025)
    Aug 11 2025

    A Parent's Guide to WAYC (Winnipeg 2025)


    This episode is a comprehensive guide for parents and Archers about the upcoming World Archery Youth Championships (WAYC) in Winnipeg, Manitoba, August 17–24. Manisha, Kelly Taylor (Chair, WAYC2025), and Aaron Bull (President, Archery Canada) discuss the event's background, logistics, tips for families, and the significance of youth championships in an Archer’s development.


    Key Topics Covered:


    • Event Background:
    • The World Archery Youth Championships is for U18 and U21 Archers in Recurve and Compound categories
    • It is held every two years
    • Winnipeg’s successful bid is the collaborative effort between Archery Manitoba, Archery Canada, and local organizations


    • Winnipeg as Host City:
    • Attractions: The Forks, Exchange District, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Assiniboine Park Zoo, and local restaurants
    • Indigenous community involvement and historical significance of The Forks


    • Event Logistics:
    • Over 575 Archers from 64 countries
    • Accommodation: Multiple hotels
    • Transportation: Shuttle services, airport transfers, and local transit tips
    • Tickets: Available at wayc2025.com ($10/day, $30 finals, $100 all-access)


    • Competition Details:
    • Schedule: Practice on August 17, qualifications and eliminations through the week, Finals on the weekend
    • Finals at The Forks, a site of deep historical and cultural importance
    • Live scoring on IANSEO.net; Finals broadcast on Archery+


    • Tips for Parents and Archers:
    • Travel light but bring essentials (sunscreen, cash, eSim, adapters, rain gear.
    • Be open to new experiences and cultures
    • Understand the "no equipment failure" and "no medical" rules
    • Bring backup equipment and consider pin/jersey trading
    • Importance of setting realistic goals and learning from the experience


    • Significance of Youth Championships:
    • A critical step in an Archer’s development, offering experience under pressure
    • Qualification processes and the importance of meeting Minimum Qualifying Scores (MQS)
    • Advice on building community and gaining experience at national and international events


    • Special Events:
    • World of Archery Gala for Archers
    • Indigenous artisans showcasing their work
    • “Try Archery” booths at the venues
    • Event merchandise and collectible pins


    Resources & Links:

    • Event website: wayc2025.com
    • Archery Canada: archerycanada.ca
    • Live scoring: IANSEO.net
    • Finals broadcast: Archery+


    Contact:

    • For volunteering, tickets, and more info, visit the event website.
    • Follow Archery Canada on social media.


    Final Thoughts:

    The WAYC in Winnipeg is set to be a memorable event for Archers, families, and the community. It’s an opportunity to experience world-class Archery, build connections, and celebrate the sport’s future stars.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    49 mins
  • Joe Leszner: Acknowledgement, Acceptance & Authenticity
    Jul 27 2025
    Joe Leszner: Acknowledgement, Acceptance & Authenticity

    What does it take to transform from a nervous Archer into a confident competitor who can perform under the world's most intense pressure? The answer might surprise you. It has nothing to do with "feeling good" or "faking it".


    Join us for a revealing conversation with Joe Leszner, the Mental Performance Consultant who became an internet sensation during the 2023 World Archery Championships in Berlin. Joe shares the strategies that helped Canadian Archers achieve breakthrough performances on the world's biggest stages, from his work with Olympic and Paralympic athletes to his role in Team Canada's historic bronze medal win at the 2024 Yecheon World Cup.


    In this episode, you'll discover:

    • Why Joe's "net neutral" philosophy changes everything about how we think about support systems in Archery

    • The truth about emotions and performance: why athletes "don't need to feel good to be good"

    • How being the underdog became Team Canada's secret weapon at the 2024 World Cup

    • Why "fake it 'til you make it" actually hurts performance and what to do instead

    • The strategic psychology behind "the Plan" in Berlin (from the high-fives to the "I love you, Sjef!")

    • Practical tools for navigating Archery's unique mental challenges, like the "Archer's Kryptonite"


    Joe brings impressive credentials to his unconventional approach. But, it's his practical, real-world approach that sets him apart from traditional sports psychology. Whether you're a parent supporting a development Archer or working with athletes competing on the world stage, Joe's insights challenge conventional thinking about mental performance and offer practical tools that can benefit Archers at every level.


    His philosophy embraces the Archer's journey focussing on seeking progress rather than demanding perfection.

    It's a balance that proves essential for long-term success and enjoyment in this demanding sport.


    Connect with Joe Leszner:

    Email: jleszner[@]gmail.com

    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joe-leszner-2b5445284

    Instagram: @jleszner


    Connect with the Archery Parent Podcast:

    Website: www.archeryparentpodcast.com

    Instagram: @archeryparentpodcast


    Resources mentioned in this episode:

    YouTube: World Archery - 2023 World Championships: Men’s Recurve Quarterfinal 2. November 19, 2023: Eric Peters (CAN) vs Steve Willer (NED): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7515_1H7RE

    YouTube: World Archery - 2023 World Championships: Men’s Recurve Semifinal. November 21, 2023: Eric Peters (CAN) vs Arif Pangestu (INA): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CCQP3eVRno

    YouTube: World Archery - 2023 World Championships: Men’s Recurve GOLD Medal Final. November 23, 2023: Eric Peters (CAN) vs Mete Gazoz (TUR): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3RiKfS3GE4

    YouTube: World Archery - Canada's Controversial Coaching. https://youtu.be/6mlnEpPGE_Q?si=GpLNP2Xk-kNqnyrZ

    Book: How Champions Think by Bob Rotella. https://www.simonandschuster.ca/books/How-Champions-Think/Bob-Rotella/9781476788654

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • Sporty Eleanor: Panic, Perseverance & Podiums
    Apr 22 2025
    Sporty Eleanor: Panic, Perseverance & Podiums


    In this episode of The Archery Parent Podcast, host Manisha talks to Eleanor Rodriguez, also known as Sporty Eleanor.


    Eleanor shares her journey in Archery, including her struggles with target panic, her approach to overcoming it, and how a new coaching perspective can change everything. She discusses the impact of parental pressure on young archers and provides advice for parents to support their children effectively. Eleanor also talks about her unique path to gaining sponsorships through social media, the challenges women face in the sport, and her future plans in archery and coaching.


    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:25 Understanding Target Panic

    02:26 Personal Experience with Target Panic

    04:12 Overcoming Target Panic

    07:23 Support and Coaching

    11:26 Parental Pressure and Archery

    15:13 Resilience in Archery

    19:26 Social Media and Sponsorship

    27:51 Realizing the Potential of Sponsorships

    28:15 Listing and Discussing Sponsors

    28:52 Responsibilities with New Equipment

    31:45 Social Media Obligations

    33:23 Advice for Parents of Young Archers

    36:44 Staying Authentic on Social Media


    Eleanor’s story is a testament to resilience - showing that setbacks are part of every archer’s journey, and with patience and support, it’s possible to come back stronger than ever.


    Whether you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode offers hope and practical insights for anyone facing their own battles with performance anxiety.


    Connect with Eleanor Rodriguez (aka Sporty Eleanor):

    Instagram: @Sporty_Eleanor

    Website: ArcheryByEleanor.com

    Linktree: Sporty_Eleanor

    Resources: Social Media Tips


    Connect with Manisha, Host & Producer of the Archery Parent Podcast:

    Instagram: @archeryparentpodcast

    YouTube: @archeryparentpodcast

    Website: ArcheryParentPodcast.ca

    LinkPop: ArcheryParentPodcast


    ATTRIBUTION: Permission granted for the use of "The Stranger" by Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum of Wooden Flowers

    MUSIC: "The Stranger"

    ARTIST: Wooden Flowers (Michael Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum)

    ALBUM: "Goldtrails", Gravitas Records

    INSTAGRAM: @giantmetalcrickets @michalmenert

    WEBSITE: https://giantmetalcrickets.bandcamp.com

    YOUTUBE: @giantmetalcrickets2020

    FACEBOOK: Giant Metal Crickets

    Listen to Wooden Flowers "The Stranger" on Spotify and all other streaming platforms

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Show More Show Less
    57 mins
  • BONUS: The Friday Rundown: April 4, 2025
    Apr 6 2025

    In this episode, we’re kicking off our new weekly series with the latest updates from the world of Archery.


    Whether you’re a seasoned Archery parent or new, an Archer, or fan, this is your go-to source for the news you need to know.


    (It’s also so you can understand what your Archer is talking about and make it seem like you do, too. 😉)


    Let's dive in:


    🏹 Local clubs release their outdoor schedules

    🏹 Sanlida World Archery Rankings

    🏹 Coaching changes at Archery GB

    🏹 The best April Fool’s Day posts

    🏹 The harbinger of the outdoor season is underway in Phoenix

    🏹 Indian Archers face travel issues ‼️UPDATE: Issue resolved for the majority of the team!‼️

    🏹 Canada’s national events calendar

    🏹 Hyundai Archery World Cup Stage 1 begins in Auburndale, Florida, on April 8-13

    🏹 One Arrow at a Time


    ----


    Stay Informed Every Week! We’ll bring you the latest Archery news, event highlights, and updates every Friday. This is your chance to impress your Archer.


    Don’t miss out - subscribe now for weekly rundowns and more!


    🔗 Links & Resources:


    🌐 Archery Canada: National tournaments for 2025

    🌐 World Archery: Central Florida World Cup

    🌐 USA Archery: Arizona Cup

    🌐 Archery GB: Coaching Change

    🌐 Team India: Travel issues for Team India [mostly!] resolved

    🌐 One Arrow at a Time: Archery-inspired gifts and apparel

    🌐 Archery Parent Podcast: What Archery Parents Need to Know to Best Support their Archers

    🌐 Our latest episode: Adam Taylor - Behind the Scenes at the Central Florida World Cup (YouTube)

    🌐 Blog: The Archery Weekly Rundown for April 4, 2025


    👍 If you enjoyed this update, share it with other Archery parents. We have more ahead.


    🔔 Don’t forget to hit the notification bell on your favourite podcast player, so you never miss an update!


    Archery Parent Podcast | Archery News | ArizonaCup | Hyundai World Cup | Archery Canada | ArcheryGB | Indian Archers | Outdoor Archery Season | News You Can Use

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    5 mins
  • Adam Taylor: Behind the Scenes of the Central Florida World Cup
    Apr 1 2025
    Organizing International Archery Events: Insights from Adam Taylor


    Hello Archery Family! This is Episode 7 of the Archery Parent Podcast.


    Manisha interviews Adam Taylor, former National Team member for Archery Ireland and the Director of Aimwell Events. For 2025, Adam is the head organizer for the Central Florida World Cup, being held from April 8-13, 2025, in Auburndale, Florida. This is the chance to learn what it takes to put on an event that brings the world's best Archers together, Stage 1 of the World Cup series.


    In the episode, Adam shares his journey from a thirty-something couch spectator watching the London 2012 Olympic Games to becoming an international Archer, his role in organizing the Central Florida World Cup, and the logistics of coordinating a large-scale international event on behalf of the Hyundai World Archery World Cup series.


    He emphasizes the importance of volunteers, the challenges of balancing athlete needs with putting on a great show, and advises parents and young Archers on how to navigate the sport.


    To volunteer at the Central Florida World Cup:

    Sign up at ArcheryWorldCupAmerica.com or Email volunteers@aimwellevents.com


    Comprehensive Recap + Transcript


    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:23 Adam Taylor's Archery Journey

    02:54 Archery Accessibility in Ireland

    04:32 Organizing the Central Florida World Cup

    08:10 Challenges and Experiences in Event Planning

    19:13 Opportunities for Involvement and Volunteering

    21:59 Balancing Athlete Needs and Spectator Experience

    24:15 Central Florida's Appeal for Archery Events

    24:47 Creating a Special Experience for Archers

    25:35 Balancing TV Schedules and Local Flavour

    26:49 Technology and Logistics in Archery Events

    28:07 Environmental Sustainability Efforts

    30:11 Shaping the Future of Archery

    31:28 Advice for Young Archers and Parents

    40:16 The Importance of Volunteers

    42:48 Final Thoughts and Call for Volunteers

    45:42 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events


    ------------------------


    ATTRIBUTION: Permission granted for the use of "The Stranger" by Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum of Wooden Flowers

    MUSIC: "The Stranger"

    ARTIST: Wooden Flowers (Michael Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum)

    ALBUM: "Goldtrails", Gravitas Records

    Instagram: Giant Metal Crickets & Michal Menert

    ‪Website: https://giantmetalcrickets.bandcamp.com

    YOUTUBE: ‪@giantmetalcrickets2020‬

    Listen to Wooden Flowers "The Stranger" on Spotify and all other streaming platforms:

    Wooden Flowers - Goldtrails


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    49 mins
  • Julie Bergen: Precision, Passion & Perfect Strings
    Feb 25 2025

    Hello, Archery Family! Welcome back to another episode of the Archery Parent Podcast! We’re thrilled to have you join us for Episode 6, where we dive into the world of String Making with Julie Bergen, the mastermind behind OCD Strings. Get ready to elevate your Archery game with precision, passion, and perfect strings.


    Julie shares how she transformed her passion for Archery into a thriving business crafting custom bowstrings for the discerning Archer. She brings a wealth of knowledge about the materials and construction of bowstrings, emphasizing how customization can enhance performance. (It can also look really cool.)


    Julie offers tips on maintaining your string - especially during rainy days - and highlights why Archery is truly a sport for everyone.


    Whether you're looking to fine-tune your bow or a parent seeking guidance, this episode with is a must-listen. So, grab your favourite drink and settle in. Let’s unravel the secrets of the string together!


    00:00 Welcome to the Archery Parent Podcast

    02:58 The Vegetarian Archery Society: A Unique Perspective

    05:51 The Art of String Making: From Hobby to Business

    08:58 Understanding String Materials and their Importance

    14:47 Guidance for Parents: Choosing the Right String

    17:18 Maintaining and Caring for Bow Strings

    25:03 Understanding String Maintenance and Replacement

    27:51 The Importance of Twists

    29:30 Proper Storage and Care

    30:31 Quality Control in String Manufacturing

    33:43 Shooting in Rainy Conditions

    36:46 Choosing the Right String for Beginners

    38:28 Order Processing and Customization Options

    46:11 Supporting Your Archer: Tips for Parents


    Comprehensive episode recap and transcript


    ATTRIBUTION: Permission granted for the use of "The Stranger" by Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum of Wooden Flowers, for Season 1 of "The Archery Parent Podcast".


    MUSIC: "The Stranger"

    ARTIST: Wooden Flowers (Michal Menert and Adam Corey Tenenbaum)

    ALBUM: "Goldtrails", Gravitas Records

    INSTAGRAM: @giantmetalcrickets @michaelmenert

    WEBSITE: https://giantmetalcrickets.bandcamp.com

    YOUTUBE: @giantmetalcrickets2020

    FACEBOOK: Giant Metal Crickets

    Listen to Wooden Flowers "The Stranger" on Spotify and all other streaming platforms

    Wooden Flowers - Goldtrails


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    Keywords: Archery, Archery Parent Podcast, OCD Strings, Bowstrings, Archery Equipment, Archery Tips, Archery Performance, Custom Bowstrings, Olympic Recurve, Barebow, Archery Maintenance, Archery for Beginners, Archery Parents, Archery Resources.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    50 mins