Ski Mom Barbara Cochran, Gold Medalist & Sports Psychology Consultant

In this episode Nicole and Sarah host Barbara Cochran, ski mom, Olympic gold medalist and sports psychology consultant. 

Barbara tells us about the incredible history behind her father Mickey’s vision to build a ski hill behind their house in Richmond, Vermont in 1961.  Mickey built a tow rope and put up lights so all his kids and anyone else who wanted to (it was open to the public), could ski train after school and into the night.

Barbara is one of four children, they all grew up to be world-class ski racers and represented the U.S. in the Winter Olympics. Barbara started racing in World Cup races when she was still in high school. She shares her Olympic story of winning the gold medal in slalom at the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, Japan. 

We loved hearing about what was going through Barbara’s mind as she prepared herself to race, and how her father’s words could calm her down and get her thinking positively (even at the Olympics!).  Barbara discovered the powers of positive self talk and having a growth mindset - long before it was a well-known practice. 

Barbara shares the Cochran’s Way, a powerful and positive message for ski racers and parents pursuing this crazy sport. She tells us about the letter she wrote to her son Ryan Cochran-Siegle, before he headed to the Olympics.

Barbara’s words have inspired us to stay positive and keep the big picture in mind - the invaluable life lessons our kids learn from skiing. 

Resources:

Barbara’s Sports Psychology Business

Cochran’s Ski Area 

Keep up with the Latest from Barbara & Cochrans:

Barbara on Twitt

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