Meet Briann Oostinga | Business Owner, Mentor and Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Briann Oostinga and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Briann, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
After 12 years coaching club soccer and being involved in the politics, fear, early specialization and toxic environment in youth sports, I wanted to make a change. I wanted a more balanced approach for our young athletes. A space where the focus was more about their character and mindset. A community that felt whole, supportive, fun and mindful. Leading them to express themselves fully in and out of sport. An outlet that fostered their mental health and childhood. I began with hosting a speed and agility session that started with journaling. I quickly realized how much they wanted to be heard and express themselves. Eventually I created a week long camp that focuses on a new topic each day. We practice the topic through journaling, movement, connection to self, nature and community, proper nutrition, creativity and leadership.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Etholete is a youth sports wellness business. We offer camps, clinics, retreats and mentorships for athletes. We are the bridge that gaps the missing pieces to competitive sports like providing tools to manage optimal mental health, outlets outside of sport, a safe space to express yourself and better understanding your purpose in and out of sport. I am most recently proud of hosting our first teen retreat at Fox Point Farms. The event was 4 hours that included guest speakers presenting on, mindset, the importance of strength training, academic balance and children Psychologist who spoke on mental health. We then made our way to the farm to harvest and prepare a meal together and ended with a sound bath. It reaffirmed how much this is needed for our teens. A day to decompress, reflect, connect and express themselves. I want the world to know there is a much needed balance between the hustle and constant achieving. And I believe in that balanced space is where we manage our highest self.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m a sucker for coffee, so we’d have to stop at steady state for the best beans around. And revolution roasters for the best pastries and shortbread cookies you’ll ever eat. We’d take a trip to the meditation gardens and find a show to see at the belly up. A day at balboa park is a must! Dija mara for dinner never disappoints. Rock climbing at vital followed by wine at Caves.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people that come to mind. The local Cardiff by the Sea and surrounding communities for believing in what Etholete offers. Morgan Gates for encouraging and believing in me to bring my strengths to the community. The Coalition of Athletic Communities For Mental health for confirming the importance of our presence and work. Fox point farm for allowing us to host events at their beautiful space. Everyone has such a special place in the evolution of Etholete.

Website: https://etholete.com

Instagram: @etholete

Image Credits
Briann Oostinga