In this episode of The Joys of the Journey, I sit down with Misaki Emura, the world’s #1 women’s sabre fencer and a two-time World Champion.

We talk about the story behind becoming the best in the world, what people don’t see behind the wins, and the hardest moments that shaped her mindset. Misaki shares how she stays mentally strong under pressure, what she does when motivation is low, and the lessons she wants every young athlete to hear. Last but not least, being a good human and the legacy she wants to leave behind.

If you’re an athlete, a parent, a coach, or someone chasing a big goal, this episode will hit.

Misaki social:

www.instagram.com/emura_misaki

www.youtube.com/@misakichannel1120

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Explore how coaches and teachers shape your mindset, motivation, and growth. Tsvetelina shares real experiences in leadership that build you up—or break you down—and how to find mentors who truly make a difference.

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In this episode of The Joys of the Journey, host Tsvetelina speaks with the team behind Fencers Do Good, a movement dedicated to making a difference in the communities.

They share the story of how Fencers Do Good began, the impact it’s having on fences around the United States, and how teamwork, compassion, and purpose drive their mission. We discuss how fencing builds character, how athletes can make a difference in their communities, and why giving back matters as much as winning.

Key Topics:

• The origin and mission of Fencers Do Good
• How fencing fosters leadership and service
• Stories of athletes making a difference
• Theo’s vision for the future of fencing with purpose

Find out more about Fencers Do Good:
Website: https://www.fencersdogood.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fencersdogood

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Ziad Elsissy’s journey is one of resilience, identity, and purpose. From growing up in Egypt to making history as the first Egyptian fencer to win an individual World Championship medal, his story is a testament to chasing a dream even when the world doesn’t expect it of you. In this conversation, Ziad opens up about the sacrifices, setbacks, and moments that shaped him — not just as an Olympian, but as a human being. This episode is a reminder that greatness isn’t found at the destination, but in the courage, faith, and heart it takes to stay on the journey.

Ziad Social: https://www.instagram.com/ziad_elsissy/

Z1 Fencing: https://www.instagram.com/z1fencing/

Z1 Fencing Website: https://www.z1fencing.com/

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Premier Fencing Foundation was created to give every athlete a chance to fence, regardless of background. In this episode, Kristiyan and Tsvetelina Hristov share how they built a national nonprofit that supports youth athletes through funding, mentorship, and opportunities. Learn how Built by Blades, their athlete-run apparel brand, helps power the foundation while teaching leadership and business skills.

You’ll hear how passion for fencing grew into a movement shaping the next generation of athletes.

Learn more or get involved:

Premier Fencing Foundation – www.premierfencingfoundation.org

Built by Blades – www.builtbyblades.com

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In this episode of The Joys of the Journey, host Tsvetelina and Kristiyan Hristov sit down with Eli Dershwitz — a three-time Olympian, Junior and Senior World Champion, Pan American Champion, NCAA Champion, and Harvard graduate — to explore his inspiring path from elite athlete to mentor and leader.

Eli shares how his fencing career shaped his mindset, the lessons he’s learned from years of competition, and what it means to return to his roots as the owner of Zeta Fencing, the club where it all began. He reflects on the joy of giving back to the next generation, the power of staying grounded while chasing greatness.

This conversation dives deep into discipline, resilience, and leadership — reminding us that true success isn’t just about medals, but about the impact you leave on others.

🎧 The Joys of the Journey celebrates athletes, leaders, and dreamers who find purpose in growth and meaning in every step of their path.

Eli's social media: https://www.instagram.com/eli.dershwitz/

Zetag Fencing: https://www.instagram.com/zeta_fencing

Zeta Fencing Website: www.zetafencing.net

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In this episode of The Joys of the Journey, we explore the powerful balance between an athlete's effort and a coach's energy. True progress doesn’t come from motivation alone — it’s built on mutual discipline, understanding, and purpose.

We discuss why coaches need their athletes’ energy to be effective, how genuine effort from both sides leads to lasting success, and why parents must embrace their dual roles as supporters and mentors. From controlling your game rather than rushing through it to finding your personal “why,” this conversation dives deep into what separates temporary achievement from lifelong growth.

If you’re an athlete, coach, or parent striving for real results — this episode will remind you that success isn’t a one-way street; it’s a shared journey.

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Lee Kiefer—three-time Olympic champion, world champion, and the first American woman ranked No. 1 in foil—joins The Joys of the Journey to share her path from childhood dreams to Olympic glory. She reflects on the toughest mental battles, lessons from her longtime coach, and the balance of competing alongside her husband, Olympic medalist Gerek Meinhardt. Lee also talks about leadership, resilience, and the legacy she hopes to leave for the next generation of athletes.

Lee's social media www.instagram.com/leetothekiefer

KM Fencing www.km-fencing.com

KM Fencing Social www.instagram.com/kmfencingllc

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n this episode of The Joys of the Journey, host Kris Hristov sits down with Coach Isaac Mburu Wanyoike, founder of TSAVORA™, Kenya’s premier fencing brand and club. We explore his inspiring journey into fencing, how his past and childhood shaped his big moves today, and the story behind the name TSAVORA™. Coach Isaac shares how the club is breaking barriers in Kenya, creating opportunities for young athletes, and helping fencers grow beyond the sport. He also reveals his vision for TSAVORA™ on the international stage and what he hopes to be known for.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or simply curious about fencing in Africa, this conversation is packed with insight, discipline, and inspiration. Discover the future of fencing in Kenya and the legacy Coach Isaac is building.

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World No.1 and World Champion Nouran “The Terminator” Gohar joins the show to share her journey to the top of women’s squash. She discusses handling pressure, pre-match rituals, being a role model for women in sports, her goals ahead, and life with Olympic fencer Ziad El-Sissy. A powerful, inspiring conversation for athletes and fans alike.

Check Nouran's social media www.instagram.com/nourangohar

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