On today’s episode of Untapped Stories, we’re joined by David Karasek — a former Olympic swimmer for Switzerland, University of Virginia standout, and now a performance mindset coach helping athletes master their mental game.

David competed on the world’s biggest stage, swimming in the 2012 London Olympics, and knows exactly what it takes to perform when the lights are brightest. In this conversation, we dive into how he learned to stay composed under pressure, the mental habits that separate good athletes from great ones, and how young swimmers can start developing confidence long before they reach elite levels.

Throughout this episode, David shares incredible insight into how athletes can train both the mind and body, from visualization techniques to handling nerves before big meets. He breaks down how to turn fear into focus, what it really means to “trust your training,” and why mental preparation is often the biggest difference-maker in high-pressure situations.

We also talk about his journey through UVA Swimming, where he balanced intense academics with NCAA competition, and how that experience shaped his later success as an Olympian. David reflects on lessons from his coaches, favorite pool drills for developing speed and efficiency, and simple ways swimmers at any level can improve their stroke technique and race strategy.

For parents, coaches, and swimmers alike, this episode is packed with practical takeaways on how to build resilience, confidence, and calm in both sports and life. Whether your athlete is chasing time drops, state cuts, or national team dreams, David’s story is a masterclass in controlling what you can and letting go of what you can’t.

At Athletes Untapped, we believe every athlete deserves access to great coaching. That’s why we connect parents and athletes with vetted private coaches across 16 sports — including swimming. If you’re looking for a private swim coach near you, or want to start offering lessons yourself, visit athletesuntapped.com to learn more.

Tune in to hear how one Olympian turned years of elite training and personal growth into a mission to help others unlock their best performance — in and out of the pool.

🎙️ Untapped Stories is presented by Athletes Untapped, the nation’s #1 platform for private sports coaching. Our mission is to help young athletes reach their full potential by connecting them with the right coach — because every athlete deserves the chance to be guided, challenged, and inspired by someone who’s been there.

Listen to new episodes weekly on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram for highlights and clips from each show: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/athletesuntapped/⁠

On today’s episode of Untapped Stories, we’re joined by Michael Bradley - former NBA player, University of Kentucky standout, and current executive at the NBA.

Michael’s basketball journey is one that few can rival. From his time as a McDonald’s All-American and top recruit in high school, to competing under legendary coach Rick Pitino at Kentucky, to a 15-year professional career that took him around the world and into the NBA, Michael has seen every level of the game — and the lessons he’s learned along the way are powerful for athletes, parents, and coaches alike.

In our conversation, Michael opens up about what it truly takes to make it in basketball — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. He shares the pivotal role that great coaches played throughout his development, from helping him build confidence and discipline, to teaching him how to handle setbacks and stay grounded through success. He also discusses how the best coaches balance holding players accountable with showing empathy — and how those lessons have shaped his own leadership style off the court.

We dive into his transition from player to working at the NBA, where he now helps grow the game globally and positively impact the next generation of players. Michael explains what he’s learned about leadership, communication, and purpose in this next chapter of his career — and why giving back to the sport that gave him everything has become his biggest focus.

Whether you’re an aspiring athlete dreaming of playing college or pro basketball, a coach looking to better connect with your players, or a parent navigating your child’s sports journey, this episode is packed with insight from someone who’s lived every side of the game.

Michael’s story is a reminder that success in sports — and in life — comes down to far more than stats and trophies. It’s about the relationships you build, the character you develop, and the impact you leave on others long after the final buzzer sounds.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• What it’s really like to play at the highest level

• The most valuable lessons from great coaches and mentors

• How athletes can develop confidence, discipline, and resilience

• The biggest mindset shift when transitioning from player to professional

• Why Michael believes every coach has the power to change a life

  
  

If you’re passionate about sports, personal growth, and the lifelong impact of great coaching — this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

🎙️ Untapped Stories is presented by Athletes Untapped, the nation’s #1 platform for private sports coaching. Our mission is to help young athletes reach their full potential by connecting them with the right coach — because every athlete deserves the chance to be guided, challenged, and inspired by someone who’s been there.

Listen to new episodes weekly on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram for highlights and clips from each show: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/athletesuntapped/

On this episode of Untapped Stories, we’re joined by Helena Orts - former Olympian for Spain’s national basketball team and one of Athletes Untapped’s top private basketball coaches. Helena’s journey through the world of high-level basketball is a masterclass in perseverance, adaptability, and mindset.

Helena represented Spain on the international stage and competed at the highest level of European basketball before bringing her experience to the next generation of athletes here in the U.S. In this conversation, she opens up about what it truly takes to compete - not just physically, but mentally. As she says, “Good players execute well and train hard, but great players are the ones who can stay composed under pressure.”

We dive into what that mindset really means and how young athletes can apply it to their own development. Helena talks about “strict compassion,” a principle she teaches every athlete she works with - learning to hold yourself to a high standard without being destructive or overly critical. It’s about using pressure as fuel rather than fear.

Throughout the episode, Helena shares practical insights for players and parents alike:

• How to earn playing time by becoming a well-rounded contributor who adds value on both ends of the floor

• What coaches really look for when deciding who stays on the court

• The differences between training for skill vs. training for composure

• How transferring from a Division I to a Division II program reshaped her perspective on growth and opportunity

• Why mindset and self-awareness can be just as impactful as shooting percentage or athleticism

  
  

Helena also gives a behind-the-scenes look at her own playing career - from representing Spain as an Olympian to transitioning into a leadership role as a coach and mentor. She talks about what she wishes more youth athletes understood about consistency, confidence, and the process of improvement.

Whether you’re an athlete trying to climb the ranks, a coach helping players develop, or a parent supporting your kid’s athletic journey, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on balancing discipline with self-belief.

Listen to new episodes weekly on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram for highlights and clips from each show: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/athletesuntapped/

On today’s episode we’re joined by Gionna Quarzo - former NC State Track & Field standout and current college coach who’s now helping the next generation of runners reach their full potential!

Gionna’s story is a powerful reminder of how one great coach can change everything. Growing up without access to top-tier training programs, she found a local coach who believed in her, pushed her to improve, and helped her earn opportunities that shaped her career - eventually leading her to compete for one of the best Track & Field programs in the country.

Now, as a private coach herself, Gionna brings that same energy and dedication to her athletes. In this conversation, she shares lessons from her own running journey, the importance of mentorship in athlete development, and why 1:1 coaching can be the difference-maker during those pivotal stages in an athlete’s life.

We also talk about the mental side of running - and why learning to embrace the bad days is so important. Every runner faces moments when things feel off: heavy legs, bad weather, missed times. But Gionna explains how those tough days are actually what build resilience, discipline, and long-term confidence. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up when it’s hard.

Another topic that stood out? What Gionna said her college coach used to preach to her team. As she put it, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” In a sport where times, rankings, and results are constantly visible, it’s easy for athletes to measure themselves against others. But Gionna reminds us that real growth comes from focusing on your own lane - your effort, your mindset, your progress - and finding joy in the journey, not the comparison.

Whether you’re a parent helping your child find the right training fit, an athlete chasing a new PR, or a coach looking to make a real impact, this episode is full of insight, motivation, and heart.

At Athletes Untapped, our mission is to connect young athletes with amazing private coaches like Gionna - across track & field and 15 other sports nationwide. We’ve helped thousands of athletes find the right coach to unlock their potential, build confidence, and take that next big leap.

Listen to new episodes weekly on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and follow us on Instagram for highlights and clips from each show: https://www.instagram.com/athletesuntapped/

On this episode of Untapped Stories, we’re joined by Alex Riggs — a world-class golf coach, former pro player, and performance consultant known for helping golfers of all levels develop speed, confidence, and sustainable success on the course.

Alex’s journey started like many young golfers — chasing distance, consistency, and results. But over years of playing and coaching at the highest levels, he learned that speed and process are the real building blocks of long-term performance. Today, he’s one of the leading voices in youth golf development, working with players across the globe to improve not just their swing mechanics, but their entire mindset around training and competition.

In this conversation, Alex and the Athletes Untapped team dive into what young golfers — and their parents — often get wrong about development. Instead of focusing on short-term wins or scorecards, Alex explains why kids should be training for speed, athleticism, and adaptability first. When golfers build speed and movement efficiency early, technical refinement and results come naturally down the road.

We also cover:

• Why “speed training” is misunderstood in youth golf — and how to approach it safely and effectively.

• The biggest developmental mistake parents make when their kids start competing too early.

• How to build confidence and consistency through process-driven practice.

• Why success in youth sports is less about trophies and more about curiosity, play, and passion.

• How Alex helps players “zoom out” and see their game as a long-term journey instead of a weekend result.

• What it takes to stay patient as a young athlete — and how parents can model that mindset from home.

  
  

Alex Riggs has spent years helping golfers from junior to professional levels develop both technically and mentally. His philosophy blends biomechanics, sports science, and performance psychology into an approach that’s built for modern golf — fast, powerful, and mentally resilient. Whether you’re a parent of a 10-year-old just picking up a club or a serious junior chasing college dreams, this episode will shift the way you think about development.

At Athletes Untapped, we believe every young athlete deserves access to great coaching and mentorship — not just instruction. Conversations like this help parents, players, and coaches rethink what matters most in sports: character, growth, and the love of the game.

🎧 Listen now to learn how to help your golfer build real speed, focus on progress, and fall in love with the process.

On today’s episode, we’re joined by Tom Grandieri – former Ivy League Baseball Player of the Year and current high school baseball coach at Episcopal Academy in Pennsylvania.

Tom’s baseball journey has taken him from the Ivy League diamond to leading and developing the next generation of athletes. He’s seen the game evolve up close — and one topic he’s passionate about is how the rise of data and analytics has changed the way parents, players, and coaches think about baseball.

In this conversation, Tom shares why too much focus on numbers — exit velocity, launch angle, spin rate — is adding pressure and anxiety instead of progress for young athletes. He offers practical advice for parents on how to balance development with enjoyment, and why the best coaches are the ones who stay honest and transparent with their players.

We also dive into how Tom builds trust with his teams, what he’s learned from coaching at different levels, and the importance of teaching kids to love the game — not just master the metrics.

If you’re a parent trying to help your child navigate youth baseball, a coach looking for better ways to communicate, or a player feeling overwhelmed by the data-driven world of sports, this episode will hit home.

At Athletes Untapped, our mission is to connect athletes with great private coaches across baseball and 15 other sports nationwide. We’ve helped thousands of athletes find the right coach to unlock their potential — both on and off the field.

Whether your athlete is working on mechanics, confidence, or simply rediscovering their love for the game, Tom’s perspective will remind you what youth sports are really about: growth, honesty, and connection.

You can also stream on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on social media for more clips and conversations: https://www.instagram.com/athletesuntapped/

On today’s episode we’re joined by Elizabeth O'Neal – one of Athletes Untapped’s top private volleyball coaches!

Link to Elizabeth's Athletes Untapped coaching profile: https://athletesuntapped.com/coach-profile/cat-o

Elizabeth was a standout college player who turned her passion for the game into a career helping the next generation of athletes. Now, she gives back by teaching youth volleyball players the skills, confidence, and mindset they need to succeed both on and off the court.

In this conversation, Elizabeth shares her journey from being a decorated student-athlete to becoming a trusted private volleyball coach. We dive into how she helps athletes improve their fundamentals, the importance of mindset in training, and why having the right coach can transform an athlete’s development.

If you’re a parent looking for a private volleyball coach, an athlete aiming to take your game to the next level, or a coach searching for fresh training ideas, this episode is packed with insights and tips.

At Athletes Untapped, our mission is to connect athletes with amazing coaches like Elizabeth, across volleyball and 15 other sports nationwide. We’ve helped thousands of athletes get the training they need to unlock their full potential.

Whether you’re working on your serve, improving your vertical jump, mastering game IQ, or just starting out, Elizabeth’s story will inspire you to put in the work, trust the process, and love the game.

Watch and listen to new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. You can also listen to new episodes on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow us on Social Media for all the best moments from the show: https://www.instagram.com/athletesuntapped/

Sammy Ryann – proud hockey mom, lifelong athlete, and youth sports advocate – joins Untapped Stories to share her journey of raising athletes and navigating the ups and downs of youth sports.

If you’re a parent raising kids in sports, you’ll relate to Sammy’s perspective. From early morning hockey practices to balancing school, training, and family time, she has seen it all. In this episode, Sammy talks about what it really means to support young athletes, how to create a positive sports environment, and the lessons parents can take away from the hockey world to apply to all sports.

Youth sports today are more competitive and demanding than ever. Parents are juggling busy schedules, kids are feeling pressure from school and sports, and coaches are trying to balance winning with development. Sammy Ryann breaks down what families can do to make sure sports remain fun, supportive, and growth-oriented. Whether you’re raising a hockey player, soccer player, basketball player, swimmer, or multi-sport athlete, the themes in this conversation apply across the board.

Sammy shares real stories about:

• Life as a hockey mom and the sacrifices parents make to give their kids opportunities.

• The importance of balance: making sure sports don’t take over family life.

• How to help kids deal with pressure, competition, and setbacks.

• Building strong relationships with coaches and teammates.

• Why sports should be about character, resilience, and confidence – not just wins and losses.

• Sports Parenting Tips: How to encourage your child without pushing too hard.

• Youth Athlete Development: Why multi-sport participation can be more valuable than early specialization.

• Mental Health in Youth Sports: Helping kids manage stress and avoid burnout.

• The Role of Parents: How to be supportive on the sidelines and at home.

• Life Lessons from Hockey: Discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership.

• Support first, coach second: Let coaches handle the training, and be your child’s biggest cheerleader.

• Focus on effort, not outcome: Praise your child for hard work, discipline, and growth rather than just wins.

• Encourage balance: School, friendships, and free time are just as important as sports success.

• Teach resilience: Help kids bounce back from losses, injuries, and tough seasons.

• Keep it fun: Kids who enjoy sports are the ones who stick with it and thrive long-term.

  
  

If you’ve ever asked yourself:

• “Am I supporting my athlete the right way?”

• “Should I let my kid specialize in one sport or play multiple?”

• “How do I handle the pressure of elite youth sports?”
  …then this episode is for you.

  
  

Sammy’s honest insights as a hockey mom will leave you inspired, reassured, and better equipped to guide your child through their sports journey.

Untapped Stories, presented by Athletes Untapped is a podcast and video series featuring athletes, parents, and coaches who are shaping the future of youth sports. From Olympians and pro athletes to everyday parents and youth coaches, our goal is to share lessons, experiences, and real conversations that help young athletes become their best selves — on and off the field.

We believe youth sports are about more than just competition. They’re about building confidence, friendships, discipline, and lifelong skills. That’s why we highlight voices like Sammy Ryann’s, giving parents and athletes the tools and perspective they need to thrive.

In this episode, we dive into the fundamentals of sports nutrition that every athlete, parent, and coach should know. Whether your child is just starting youth sports, training at the high school level, or preparing for elite competition, the right approach to fueling makes all the difference.

Wendi shares her expertise on:

• Foundations of athlete nutrition: What young athletes need on a daily basis to build energy, strength, and recovery.

• In-game fueling strategies: Practical tips for what to eat before, during, and after practices, games, or tournaments.

• Balanced meals and snacks: Easy, affordable ideas for parents who want to set their kids up for success without overcomplicating food prep.

• Hydration habits: Why water and electrolytes matter more than flashy sports drinks.

• Long-term performance and health: How nutrition impacts not just today’s game, but an athlete’s future development, injury prevention, and recovery.

One of the biggest challenges in youth sports today is that athletes often underfuel. Many kids go into practices or games without enough energy to perform at their best. Others rely too heavily on fast food or sugary snacks, which can lead to inconsistent energy and recovery. Wendi breaks down these common mistakes and gives clear, actionable advice that parents can actually use.

As a registered dietitian and sports nutritionist, Wendi has worked with athletes across all levels - from youth sports to college athletes to pros. Her approach is practical and science-based, making nutrition easy to understand and apply in the real world. She emphasizes whole foods, balance, and flexibility, so athletes don’t feel restricted or stressed about eating “perfectly.”

For parents, this episode is full of valuable takeaways. You’ll learn how to:

• Pack pre-game meals that fuel energy without weighing athletes down.

• Choose the right mid-game snacks to keep performance high.

• Plan post-game recovery meals that rebuild muscle and restore energy.

• Create a home environment where healthy eating is easy, enjoyable, and sustainable.

Wendi also shares advice on navigating the pressures of youth sports. From busy schedules to travel tournaments to the culture of “energy drinks and protein shakes,” she explains how families can simplify the process and focus on what really matters: fueling athletes in a way that supports growth, performance, and long-term health.

Whether you’re a parent trying to figure out what to pack for a weekend tournament, an athlete looking for an edge, or a coach who wants to better support your team, this episode offers clear, practical, and evidence-based guidance that you can start using today.

At Athletes Untapped, we know that sports performance is about more than just practice - it’s about developing the full athlete. That’s why we bring on experts like Wendi Irlbeck to share real advice with families navigating the youth sports journey.

👉 Tune in to hear Wendi’s top sports nutrition tips and learn how to set your athlete up for success with the right fuel, the right mindset, and the right support.

Learn more about Wendi's practice here: www.nutritionwithwendi.com

Former college and professional softball player Emily Alexander joins Untapped Stories to share her unique perspective as both an elite athlete and a youth sports parent. With years of experience on the field and now in the stands, Emily bridges the gap between what young athletes need and what parents often wonder as they navigate practices, clubs, tournaments, and expectations.

In this episode, she opens up about the realities of balancing competition with confidence, helping kids build passion without pressure, and knowing when to step in - or step back. Emily talks about common mistakes well-meaning parents make in youth sports, how to communicate with coaches, and why long-term development matters more than weekend wins.

If you’re a parent new to youth sports, her advice is relatable, reassuring, and incredibly practical. Whether your child is just starting lessons, trying out for travel teams, or dreaming about college athletics, Emily offers guidance that helps families support their athletes the right way - focused on growth, enjoyment, and lifelong love of the game.