Join us for a dynamic Q&A episode of the Acrobatic Arts Podcast with one of our favorite guests, Dr. Leisha Strachan! This episode is packed with expert insights. Dr. Strachan, a sports psychologist and professor at the University of Manitoba, addresses common questions from acro instructors, including:

• Exam Preparation: Tips to help students overcome anxiety and perform confidently.
• Performance Anxiety: Strategies for students who excel in practice but struggle on stage.
• Injury Engagement: Ways to keep injured athletes involved and motivated during recovery.

Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable tools and techniques from one of our most popular guests! Tune in now to enhance your teaching and support your students' success!

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Dr. Leisha Strachan is a professor at the University of Manitoba with a research focus on positive youth development through sport. She is also interested in research with coaches and parents in the deliberate delivery of positive sport experiences for children and youth.

Research Areas

• Positive youth development
• Sport participation
• Children
• Youth
• Sport psychology

Education

• Doctor of Philosopy - Sport Psychology, Queen’s University (2008)
• Master of Human Kinetics - Sport Psychology, University of Windsor (2004)
• Bachelor of Education, University of Manitoba (1999)
• Bachelor of Physical Education, University of Manitoba (1997)

Leisha has been involved in sport and dance for the majority of her life. She began baton twirling at Crestview Community Club in Winnipeg at the age of 5 and continued for 18 years. She is a former Canadian Senior Freestyle Champion (1994), Grand National Solo and 2-Baton champion (1994), CBTF Senior Athlete and Overall Athlete of the Year (1994), and a 7-time Canadian Contingent member competing in freestyle (highest placing - 6th in 1994) and pair events garnering 2 world bronze medals for her efforts (with Kristin Macaraeg). In her time on the national team, she traveled to France, Japan, Holland, Italy, and Hawaii. Leisha is one of the founding coaches of Aerial Fusion Baton, which has been in existence for 25 years. In addition to being a Level 3 certified coach, she is also certified as a Module 1 teacher in Acrobatic Arts. She is also a certified M1, M2, M3, and Masters judge. She has had the opportunity to coach provincial and national team members and continues to choreograph for different athletes across Canada, England, and Scotland.

IG @drls250

Previous Episodes

Ep 4 Protecting Your Mental Health Dr Leisha Strachan

Ep 31 Overcoming Dancer Anxiety + Mental Blocks with Dr. Leisha Strachan

Ep. 69 Turning Dance Transitions into Triumphs with Dr. Leisha Strachan, Pt 1

Ep. 69 Turning Dance Transitions into Triumphs with Dr. Leisha Strachan, Pt. 2