Episode Summary:

In this powerful episode, Nicole and Wesley welcome Elaena Noffsinger, an aquatics veteran with over 16 years of experience across swim schools, water parks, municipal pools, and now, her own business—Streamline Swim Academy.

Elaena shares her journey from starting as a teen lifeguard to building a thriving swim school rooted in retention, resilience, and relationships. She opens up about managing burnout, advocating for staff, and making bold moves—like asking for the job before it exists.

This episode is packed with real talk for swim instructors, managers, and aquatics professionals who want to level up their impact and protect their passion.

In This Episode, We Cover:

How Elaena built her aquatics career from the ground up

The importance of staff retention and how to advocate for your team

Managing burnout while staying in the field you love

Building a swim school and finding the right pool to start

Ownership culture and how small acts of pride build strong teams

Why proactive job seeking opens doors

Giveaway Winner:

We announce our April Giveaway Winner at the end of the episode! 
Be sure to listen to see if it’s you—and keep following for more chances to win.

Connect with Elaena Noffsinger:

Swim School https://www.streamlineswimacademy.com/

Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaena-noffsinger-0b3967b8/

Listen & Share:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1961195/episodes/17076844-from-lifeguard-to-leader-navigating-aquatics-with-elaena-noffsinger

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/navigating-neva/id1620093755

Want to be a guest? https://form.jotform.com/250518744185158