The Joys Of The Journey

The Joys Of The Journey

Welcome to The Joys of the Journey—a podcast where stories, experiences, and lessons from all walks of life come together. I’m Tsvetelina Hristov—a mom, wife, and fencing coach. My journey began as a competitive athlete and has evolved into guiding others as a coach, building a business, and creating a life centered on growth and connection. I believe every step—whether filled with challenges or victories—holds value and joy worth sharing. On this podcast, I sit down with people from diverse fields to have meaningful conversations about their paths, passions, and perspectives. From sports to business, family to personal growth, each guest brings a unique story that reminds us: Everyone has a story worth sharing. Joy isn’t just found in the destination—it’s woven throughout the journey. Join me as we explore what it means to live fully, learn constantly, and celebrate the process along the way.

Episodes

Beyond the Sport: Reclaiming Your Identity After Retirement

June 12, 2026 • 13 mins
This episode explores the complex relationship between identity and life transitions, especially for athletes and parents. It discusses how defining oneself solely by a profession or role can lead to challenges when that role ends, and emphasizes the importance of cultivating diverse interests and identities. 🔗 Stay Connected: Subscribe and hit the bell for updates. Website: www.thejoysofthejourney.com Instagram: /  @thejoyso...
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Yoana Ilieva | World No. 2 Sabre Fencer on Training, Pressure, and Elite Competition

March 17, 2026 • 30 mins
This podcast episode was recorded in Bulgarian, and the video subtitles are in English. World No. 2 sabre fencer Yoana Ilieva joins Tsvetelina Hristov to talk about life at the top of international fencing. Yoana represents Bulgaria and competes against the world's best athletes. She explains how elite fencers train, how they manage pressure during major competitions, and what daily life looks like while chasing world titles and ...
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Misaki Emura, World #1 Sabre Fencer and 2x World Champion, on Mindset, Pressure, and Kindess

February 11, 2026 • 24 mins
In this episode of The Joys of the Journey, I sit down with Misaki Emura, the world’s #1 women’s sabre fencer and a two-time World Champion. We talk about the story behind becoming the best in the world, what people don’t see behind the wins, and the hardest moments that shaped her mindset. Misaki shares how she stays mentally strong under pressure, what she does when motivation is low, and the lessons she wants ...
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The Good and Bad of Coaching and Teaching

November 28, 2025 • 21 mins
Send us a textExplore how coaches and teachers shape your mindset, motivation, and growth. Tsvetelina shares real experiences in leadership that build you up—or break you down—and how to find mentors who truly make a difference.🔗 Stay Connected:Subscribe and hit the bell for updates. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejoysofthejourneyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejoysofthejourne
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Fencers Do Good: Uniting the Fencing World Through Service and Purpose | The Joys of the Journey Podcast

November 12, 2025 • 43 mins
Send us a textIn this episode of The Joys of the Journey, host Tsvetelina speaks with the team behind Fencers Do Good, a movement dedicated to making a difference in the communities.They share the story of how Fencers Do Good began, the impact it’s having on fences around the United States, and how teamwork, compassion, and purpose drive their mission. We discuss how fencing builds character, how athletes can make a diff...
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Ziad Elsissy: The Journey of Egypt’s First World Championship Medalist in Fencing | Mindset, Olympics & Legacy

November 5, 2025 • 53 mins
Send us a textZiad Elsissy’s journey is one of resilience, identity, and purpose. From growing up in Egypt to making history as the first Egyptian fencer to win an individual World Championship medal, his story is a testament to chasing a dream even when the world doesn’t expect it of you. In this conversation, Ziad opens up about the sacrifices, setbacks, and moments that shaped him — not just as an Olympian, but...
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The Story Behind Building a Foundation That Empowers Athletes

October 29, 2025 • 26 mins
Send us a textPremier Fencing Foundation was created to give every athlete a chance to fence, regardless of background. In this episode, Kristiyan and Tsvetelina Hristov share how they built a national nonprofit that supports youth athletes through funding, mentorship, and opportunities. Learn how Built by Blades, their athlete-run apparel brand, helps power the foundation while teaching leadership and business skills.You’ll ...
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Eli Dershwitz: 3-Time Olympian & World Champion Giving Back Through Zeta Fencing | The Joys of the Journey Podcast

October 22, 2025 • 55 mins
Send us a textIn this episode of The Joys of the Journey, host Tsvetelina and Kristiyan Hristov sit down with Eli Dershwitz — a three-time Olympian, Junior and Senior World Champion, Pan American Champion, NCAA Champion, and Harvard graduate — to explore his inspiring path from elite athlete to mentor and leader.Eli shares how his fencing career shaped his mindset, the lessons he’s learned from years of competitio...
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Effort Goes Both Ways: Why Coaches Need Athletes’ Energy for True Success

October 16, 2025 • 10 mins
Send us a textIn this episode of The Joys of the Journey, we explore the powerful balance between an athlete's effort and a coach's energy. True progress doesn’t come from motivation alone — it’s built on mutual discipline, understanding, and purpose.We discuss why coaches need their athletes’ energy to be effective, how genuine effort from both sides leads to lasting success, and why parents must embrace th...
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Lee Kiefer: Breaking Barriers in Fencing and Life

October 1, 2025 • 36 mins
Send us a textLee Kiefer—three-time Olympic champion, world champion, and the first American woman ranked No. 1 in foil—joins The Joys of the Journey to share her path from childhood dreams to Olympic glory. She reflects on the toughest mental battles, lessons from her longtime coach, and the balance of competing alongside her husband, Olympic medalist Gerek Meinhardt. Lee also talks about leadership, resilience, and th...
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Building Kenya’s Fencing Legacy: Coach Isaac Mburu Wanyoike & TSAVORA™

September 24, 2025 • 42 mins
Send us a textn this episode of The Joys of the Journey, host Kris Hristov sits down with Coach Isaac Mburu Wanyoike, founder of TSAVORA™, Kenya’s premier fencing brand and club. We explore his inspiring journey into fencing, how his past and childhood shaped his big moves today, and the story behind the name TSAVORA™. Coach Isaac shares how the club is breaking barriers in Kenya, creating opportunities for young athletes, an...
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Nouran Gohar Interview | Squash World Champion, World No.1 & 4x US Open Winner

September 17, 2025 • 60 mins
Send us a textWorld No.1 and World Champion Nouran “The Terminator” Gohar joins the show to share her journey to the top of women’s squash. She discusses handling pressure, pre-match rituals, being a role model for women in sports, her goals ahead, and life with Olympic fencer Ziad El-Sissy. A powerful, inspiring conversation for athletes and fans alike.Check Nouran's social media www.instagram.com/nourangohar🔗 S...
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Unlocking Fencer Performance | Strength, Nutrition & Mindset with Richard A Schreiber

September 10, 2025 • 55 mins
Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Richard Schreiber, a fencing strength and conditioning coach who has built a reputation for helping fencers unlock peak performance. With years of hands-on experience, he shares practical and science-backed strategies that every athlete can implement.Listeners will hear his expert tips on injury prevention—from smart warm-ups to building resilience through strength training. He ...
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Alexander Massialas: Olympic Silver Medalist, World Champion, and Stanford Coach on Mindset, Motivation & Legacy

August 23, 2025 • 59 mins
Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Alexander Massialas, one of the most decorated foil fencers in U.S. history. A four-time Olympian, Alexander made history at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games by winning silver in individual foil and bronze in team foil, followed by another team bronze at Tokyo 2020. He is also a World Champion, multiple Grand Prix winner, NCAA champion at Stanford, and currently serves as the head coach of ...
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What Happens When You Don’t Win an Olympic Medal?

August 20, 2025 • 8 mins
Send us a textIn today’s powerful episode, we’re diving into a truth most athletes quietly face: What if you don’t win that Olympic medal or world championship? Less than 1% of athletes reach that level—but that doesn’t mean your story ends. In fact, it might just be beginning.This episode is all about embracing the next chapter. Your competitive career gave you more than wins and losses—it gave ...
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You Have to Climb to See The Best Views - To Achieve Your Goals You Will Have Difficulties

July 31, 2025 • 4 mins
Send us a textDaily motivation. You Have to Climb to See The Best Views - To Achieve Your Goals, You Will Have Difficulties🔗 Stay Connected:Subscribe and hit the bell for updates. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejoysofthejourneyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejoysofthejourne
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Car Ride With Kris Discussing Women's Makeup, Target Shopping and More

April 22, 2024 • 11 mins
Send us a textCar Ride With Kris Discussing Women's Makeup, Target Shopping and More🔗 Stay Connected:Subscribe and hit the bell for updates. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejoysofthejourneyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejoysofthejourne
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Your Biggest Competition - Overcome This to be Successful

March 29, 2024 • 7 mins
Send us a textWho is Your Biggest Competition - Overcome This to be SuccessfulHome, this podcast helps you understand what stays between you and your success story.🔗 Stay Connected:Subscribe and hit the bell for updates. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejoysofthejourneyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejoysofthejourne
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Social Media Impact and Our Mental Health

February 25, 2024 • 9 mins
Send us a textJoin us as we navigate the digital landscape, examining social media's positive and negative impacts on our mental health. Discover strategies for mindful usage, learn how to set healthy boundaries, and find out how to foster a more supportive online environment. Whether you're a social media enthusiast, a concerned parent, or simply curious about the digital world's influence on our minds, "Social Media Impact" ...
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Balancing Family, Life, and More - Episode 4

February 18, 2024 • 11 mins
Send us a textBalancing Family, Life, and MoreWe explore the art of balancing the demands of family, career, personal growth, and everything in between. Join us as we dive deep into our lives with ways we juggle responsibilities while maintaining a sense of fulfillment and joy.Whether you're a busy parent, a career-driven individual, or someone striving for a more balanced life, this episode is your guide to navigating the complexi...
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