Most parents will go to great lengths to ensure their children succeed. From tutoring sessions to extracurricular activities, they explore every avenue to help their kids thrive in the classroom and in life. 

For this episode, we talk with Ice Dancing Olympian and World Medalist Andrew Poje. He has achieved remarkable feats in his athletic career, and now works as an academic coach for children. He shares his thoughts on the intriguing connection between sports and education, and how students can apply the valuable lessons learned through playing sports to academic success. 

Listen now to hear:

• How having an athlete’s mindset can help with academics [05:52];
• Strategies to help kids take ownership of their dreams and ambitions [07:25];
• The value of setting big, scary goals [09:52];
• Developing a healthy response to pressure in kids [14:56]; and
• The importance of building a network of success for your child [15:28].

Don’t miss Today’s Takeaways! 

Listen all the way to the end of the episode for three tips on how to help your children excel in their learning. 

Links and Resources 

• Check out Andrew’s website and follow him on Instagram.
• Watch Andrew and ice dancing partner Kaitlyn Weaver perform at a Canadian ice skating exhibition in early 2023.
• Watch the video version of this episode on the Future of Education YouTube channel. Don’t forget to like and follow! 
• Explore Alpha, a unique school that uses adaptive software and motivational strategies to help students to learn in the style that works best for them.
• Learn more about GT School, an online program that helps gifted and talented kids supercharge their academics.

 Be part of something special

Stay connected with our community: 

• • • YouTube channel
    • Facebook
    • Instagram 
    • Twitter 

If you enjoy the Gifted Minds podcast, would you leave us a short review on your favorite podcast platform? We love reading your feedback and ideas. 

About Andrew Poje

Many in the world strive to become world-class at something. However, it takes purpose and perspective to achieve success in life. My athletic experience has been integral in helping me succeed daily. Being a two-time Olympian, a three-time World Medalist, a three-time National Champion in the sport of Figure Skating taught me valuable skills, including the importance of grit, resilience, and the daily perspective required to achieve goals. Leaning into my curious nature, I constantly dove into the world of personal development. Pushing my curiosity further by studying Biomedical Science, Master's of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and working for multinational companies, I found ways to unleash my inner why and the why's of my clients—helping to empower them through strategic design-thinking. 

Podcast Credits

• Executive Producer and Host: MacKenzie Price
• Executive Producer: Lindsay Grubb, TillCo Media 
• Senior Producer: Amanda Avery
• Senior Editor: Alisa Jenkins, Springboard Marketing
• Marketing: Patrick Harrell, The Krewe
• Video Production/Editing: Kevin Smith, Picturebox Productions
• Music Producer: Dyami Wilson