Articles by Barbara McCoy Carrier

The role of character coaching in martial arts and how athletes progress through the three levels of sports participation is a concept that can easily be overlooked or miscommunicated. These three levels are often forgotten when someone—or their child—first begins a sport. The expectation of each level, however, is implicit. [Read More]

I often get called an overthinker, but recently, a friend changed the narrative for me when she referred to me as a “deep thinker.” She explained that it isn’t a weakness or something to feel ashamed of. She said that the overthinking, when it becomes overwhelming, is my anxiety, which [Read More]

From friend to foe, jest to serious accountability, the semblance of humor can be a stark reality. It is a balancing act with all these variables: being self-aware, tackling imposter syndrome, and remaining in control of the environment you are creating. One must lead from the heart, in a sense, [Read More]

When I was a child, I had dreams and ideas, just like everyone else. I imagined who I would marry and hoped for a future with someone special. This individual had to be involved in the martial arts, for that was where my life was. Otherwise, they would not understand [Read More]

In theory, it may seem simple to listen to someone. In practice, it requires one to be humble and quiet in any internal dialogue, to be present in the moment, and to listen genuinely. Although it may be harder for some than others, it is essential to listen with kindness [Read More]

To truly thrive, we must face all facets of our lives. We can’t simply focus on the positives. We must also confront the pain and sorrow that we all will inevitably encounter. A month ago, I lost my father, a man that many of you may have known personally or [Read More]

Are the transferable benefits of traditional martial arts becoming too focused on well-being, neglecting the core values that set them apart from other athletes and humans? How can we balance modern desires with the martial components that once kept humility and hope in equal measure?   Many have remarked on [Read More]

Throughout my life, I have learned valuable lessons from the diverse individuals who have crossed my path, whether for a few brief moments, days, or even years, forming a beautiful mosaic of experiences. Sometimes, some people may seem to be only temporary in your training, while others become essential members [Read More]

We Were Dreamers: An Immigrant Superhero Origin Story -Simu Liu-   I opened the Libby app and saw the icon for this book, and my interest peaked. Superhero. Dreamer. I recognized the man’s face slightly and knew I had enjoyed hearing others’ stories. I clicked download with no expectations. Everyone [Read More]

I have had a unique experience with academics and the interview process since grade school. I cherish these experiences and memories and can give full credit to the knowledge it is because I have trained in martial arts since 1989. I started training following a field day activity when my [Read More]

The Seed. There is a quote in Hamilton that Alexander Hamilton, in the scene where Burr shoots him, sings, “Legacy. What is a legacy? It is planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.” Sometimes teaching and training feel like that. A garden that is yet to bloom [Read More]