In this episode, Aaron and Aja discuss their parenting journey, reflecting on their initial expectations versus the reality of raising two children. They share insights on the challenges of maternity leave, the impact of COVID-19 on their family dynamics, and the ongoing debate about schooling for their kids. The couple emphasizes the importance of communication, trust, and adapting their parenting styles to meet the unique needs of each child. They conclude with a commitment to fostering an open and supportive environment for their children as they navigate the complexities of parenting.

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Instagram: @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajajanene_ / @aaron_pauls

Youtube: @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Perspectives

10:12 The Maternity Leave Crisis

16:05 Shifting Priorities During COVID-19

32:39 Lessons from Competitive Golf

38:59 Parenting Styles and Authority

45:57 Setting High Standards for Kids

51:17 The Importance of Communication in Parenting

Takeaways

• Parenting expectations often differ from reality.
• Maternity leave can lead to unexpected challenges.
• COVID-19 shifted priorities for many families.
• Flexibility in parenting is crucial for family dynamics.
• Deciding on schooling involves weighing various factors.
• Communication is key in understanding children's needs.
• Every child is unique and requires different approaches.
• Building trust with children starts early in parenting.
• Parents should strive to be a safe space for their kids.
• Parenting styles evolve as children grow and develop.

In this episode, Aja and Aaron discuss the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth. They share their experiences with mentors, the value of being open-minded, and how mentorship can come from various sources. The conversation highlights the significance of seeking guidance, the fulfillment of mentoring others, and the role of passion in attracting mentors. They also explore how books and podcasts can serve as valuable resources for learning and growth.

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Instagram: @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajajanene_ / @aaron_pauls

Youtube: @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Recent Guests

05:50 Personal Experiences with Mentors

12:01 The Role of Mentorship in Personal Growth

18:06 Finding Mentorship in Unconventional Ways

24:00 Books and Resources as Mentors

32:30 Empowering Through Mentorship

37:36 The Importance of Credibility in Mentorship

47:56 The Joy of Mentoring

Takeaways

• Mentorship can come from various sources, including parents and peers.
• Being a mentor is as valuable as being mentored.
• Open-mindedness is crucial for effective mentorship.
• Experience often outweighs formal credentials in mentorship.
• Books and podcasts can serve as valuable mentors.
• Mentoring others can be fulfilling and rewarding.
• Passion is key to attracting mentors.
• Mentorship is a two-way street; both parties learn.
• The journey of mentorship can lead to personal growth.
• Sharing experiences can help others navigate their paths.

In this conversation, Aaron and Aja discuss with Roger Friesen the intricacies of performance psychology, its evolution from sports psychology, and its application across various fields. Roger shares insights on managing emotions, the importance of focus, and the role of silence in communication. He emphasizes the significance of empowering others through guidance rather than simply providing answers. The discussion also touches on the characteristics of high performers and the unique experiences at the Olympics, highlighting the cultural exchange and personal growth that comes from such events.

Roger Friesen has been working as a mental training consultant for the past 20 years with many National level and Olympic teams and athletes. This has involved working with athletes in preparation for Olympic, Commonwealth and Pan Am Games as well as many world championships. Over the years, Roger’s work as a sport psychology consultant has also included work with those in the performing arts – musicians, actors and ballet. Roger also taught the sports psychology stream of courses he developed at the University of the Fraser Valley for over 2 decades.

Follow us!

Instagram: @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajajanene_ / @aaron_pauls / @rogerfriesen

Youtube: @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Performance Psychology

05:46 Managing Emotions in Sports

11:52 Task Focus vs. Outcome Focus

17:58 The Importance of Team Dynamics

39:35 The Power of Silence in Conversations

45:07 Empowering Through Guidance, Not Answers

50:13 Characteristics of High Performers

57:18 The Olympic Experience: Unity in Diversity

Takeaways

• Performance psychology includes mental and emotional training.
• Managing emotions is crucial for optimal performance.
• The pre-shot routine in sports starts before the action.
• Focus on tasks rather than outcomes to avoid choking.
• Silence can facilitate deeper conversations.
• Empowering others involves guiding them to find their own answers.
• High performers often share traits like discipline and passion.
• The mundanity of excellence is essential for success.
• The Olympics serve as a platform for cultural understanding.
• Traveling enhances appreciation for diverse cultures.