Coaching Mind's Podcast: Perform at your best!

Have you ever faced a challenge so daunting it transformed you? This week, we're joined by the extraordinary Matt Comer, who shares the raw and real experiences from his rim-to-rim-to-rim run of the Grand Canyon that actually ended up being a 100k run through the Grand Canyon. It's a tale of grit and resilience that digs deep into the mental fortitude required to endure such an arduous 47-mile trek. While the Grand Canyon's vistas are undeniably breathtaking, the trails themselves offer a psychological rollercoaster from sunrise to starlit sky. Matt recounts the unique challenges and joys of hiking the South Kaibob and Bright Angel trails by day and by night, and how these experiences shape our understanding of not just the physical but also the emotional demands of such endeavors. Our shared journey emphasizes the sense of community found amongst those who traverse these paths and the simple, yet satisfying pleasures that await at the journey's end.Lastly, we unveil the transformative power of visualization, extending beyond the realm of athletics into life's myriad challenges. If you want more information about the MTP Academy, an initiative I'm passionate about, aimed at equipping coaches and athletes with the mental training tools necessary to excel, be sure to check out mtp.academy **Be sure to seek the appropriate medical/professional advice & training before undertaking any crazy epic adventures of your own!Are you an ATHLETE looking to take your training to the next level? Check out our website to learn more about 1-on-1 training opportunities:mentaltrainingplan.com/athletesAre you a COACH looking for an affordable year-round mental performance training program? Check out the MTP Academy available through our website:mentaltrainingplan.com/teams

Cailyn Henderson, professional golfer and founder of Fore the Girls, shares her leap from college golf to chasing the LPGA and the mental hurdles that followed. She opens up about losing routines, battling negative self-talk and the putting yips. Conversations cover redefining identity beyond scores, seeking help, and rebuilding confidence through consistent mental training.

Embark on a journey of fortitude with Andy Sweet, the former quarterback and current Marine Corps infantry weapons platoon leader, as we unravel the essence of mental and physical toughness. Andy brings to the table the concept of "callousing the mind"—a powerful practice of facing and overcoming adversity that he has mastered both on the playing field and the battlefield. By delving into the analogy of storing "cookies" in a jar, we reveal a unique method for building resilience and confidence when venturing into the unknown.The art of mentorship is magnified in our discussion about shaping young leaders within the Marine Corps. We dissect the crucial balance between pushing Marines to their limits and nurturing their potential, debunking the myth that military training is all about breaking people down. Andy and I highlight the transformative power of responsibility and how it can drive performance to new heights. As we analyze the approach to dealing with failures, we establish the importance of small wins and constructive feedback in the journey toward personal growth.Interested in learning more about the MTP Academy? Visit mtp.academy or reach out to us through our website at mentaltrainingplan.com/podcastAre you an ATHLETE looking to take your training to the next level? Check out our website to learn more about 1-on-1 training opportunities:mentaltrainingplan.com/athletesAre you a COACH looking for an affordable year-round mental performance training program? Check out the MTP Academy available through our website:mentaltrainingplan.com/teams

A concise guide to building a championship mindset through expectation, determination, and perseverance. Practical ways to control effort, intensity, and body language are explored. Learn to spot moments that kill motivation and use goal-setting, curated media, and a clear personal why to reignite drive and sustain commitment.

Imagine if you could offer your athletes the tools to master control over their physical reactions to stress, anxiety, and pressure. That's exactly what we discuss in this episode. We delve into the fascinating world of the human body's physiological responses to stress, pulling references from the US military's research on how to manage such reactions in high-pressure combat situations. We shed light on the role of the vagus nerve in this process and discuss the power of controlled breathing in interrupting stress signals to the body.In our conversation, we also emphasize the crucial role of customized breathing patterns and intentional muscle relaxation. We share insights into the science behind involuntary muscle tension, offering practical advice on how athletes can regain control over these muscles. Plus, we discuss pre-shot routines, visualization, and physical activities to balance athletes' energy levels. We explore how to identify each athlete's ideal energy level and the ways to adjust it for optimal performance. This episode is full of actionable tips to help your athletes remain composed, relaxed, and in control in their sports journey.Ready to learn more or get help implementing this with your team or athletes? Check out MTP.academy and get started today!Are you an ATHLETE looking to take your training to the next level? Check out our website to learn more about 1-on-1 training opportunities:mentaltrainingplan.com/athletesAre you a COACH looking for an affordable year-round mental performance training program? Check out the MTP Academy available through our website:mentaltrainingplan.com/teams

They explore concentration grids and simple drills to sharpen narrow attention. They cover exercises to widen awareness and when to use narrow versus broad focus in sports. They describe pre-, during- and post-game routines and concise self-talk cues. They introduce rituals like flush and burn and permission to forget to manage lingering thoughts.

Losing a season due to injury, loosing a teammate who moves away, losing a loved one, coach, or teammate who tragically passes away...the list is endless and the topic can feel overwhelming. How can coaches help the people in their program navigate loss without falling victim to comparison. How can coaches help athletes process tragedy when they feel broken and confused themselves?Navigating the stormy seas of grief and loss can seem like an impossible journey, especially within the competitive world of athletics. Join me as I welcome Liz Howard, a licensed mental health counselor who brings a wealth of knowledge from both personal and professional encounters with grief. We explore how the complexities of grief can affect athletic performance, and the critical role of coaches in guiding athletes through such emotional turmoil. Liz sheds light on the essential act of acknowledging and expressing feelings, and the power it has in transforming our experiences with loss.Our conversation deepens as we delve into the significance of empathy during these challenging times. Liz illustrates the immense power of human connection in helping athletes confront and process their emotions. We highlight the importance of creating safe spaces and fostering supportive relationships that can aid individuals through these trying experiences. Moreover, Liz cautions against the constant urge to fix or solve the situation, stressing the need to provide space for processing feelings.In the latter part of our discussion, we unfold the importance of self-care among coaches. We explore how our understanding of the science behind emotions can be used to build meaningful connections with athletes. Liz offers a treasure trove of resources to deepen our comprehension of how emotions impact us and how to navigate them effectively. This episode is a profound exploration of grief, emotions, and the power of understanding in fostering resilience. Don't miss this insightful journey with Liz Howard, a beacon of wisdom in the realms of mental health.Are you an ATHLETE looking to take your training to the next level? Check out our website to learn more about 1-on-1 training opportunities:mentaltrainingplan.com/athletesAre you a COACH looking for an affordable year-round mental performance training program? Check out the MTP Academy available through our website:mentaltrainingplan.com/teams

Practical ways coaches can assess and build athlete confidence through baseline measures and instruction. Simple teaching steps and deliberate practice routines to strengthen belief. Body language drills and visualization techniques to rehearse success. Tools like success boards and reframing negative self-talk to sustain earned confidence.

This week we welcome Ben Smith as he dives deep into the topic of coaches reclaiming control over their physical health after their playing days are over. Transitioning from a career on the field to a role on the sidelines can present a complex and challenging journey, often filled with overwhelming amounts of information. However, fear not, as Ben expertly breaks down this feat into bite-sized, actionable steps that will empower coaches to take charge of their well-being.We will post the link to Ben's new app as soon as it becomes available!If you have not checked out the MTP Academy yet head on over to the website: mtp.academy to learn more and even try it free for 5 days!Are you an ATHLETE looking to take your training to the next level? Check out our website to learn more about 1-on-1 training opportunities:mentaltrainingplan.com/athletesAre you a COACH looking for an affordable year-round mental performance training program? Check out the MTP Academy available through our website:mentaltrainingplan.com/teams

Trudy Coler, Westfield High girls' tennis coach known for building mental toughness, shares her journey. She discusses integrating the Focus Cycle into practice. She explains shifting team habits, using go-to statements, and seniors teaching freshmen. She covers turning an 8-8 season into 14-4 and plans to sustain a resilient team culture.