The Mental Game Gym Podcast

Click here to register for the FREE virtual workshop! SummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, host Andrew Crome discusses the importance of building confidence in athletes. He emphasizes that confidence is not a feeling to wait for but a skill that can be developed through intentional practice. Crome introduces a confidence checklist, highlights the significance of setting intentions, and explains how to manage unhelpful thoughts. He also discusses the necessity of resetting after mistakes, stepping into discomfort for growth, and celebrating actions over outcomes. The episode concludes with a focus on values as the core of an athlete's identity and introduces the Know, Grow, Show cycle for sustainable confidence. Sound Bites"Confidence is not something you wait for; it's built.""Stepping into discomfort is essential for growth.""Confidence is a skill that can be trained and improved."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Preparation for Athletes01:52 Building Confidence: A Skill, Not a Feeling04:11 The Confidence Checklist: Intentions and Actions08:28 Managing Unhelpful Thoughts and Feelings11:25 The Importance of Resetting After Mistakes16:26 Stepping into Discomfort to Build Confidence21:38 Celebrating Actions Over Outcomes24:10 Connecting to Values for Sustainable Confidence27:36 Conclusion: Confidence as a Skill to TrainKeywordsmental performance, confidence, athletes, mental skills, Olympic preparation, sports psychology, resilience, intention setting, unhelpful thoughts, resetting mistakes

KeywordsOlympics, mental preparation, emotional regulation, visualization, mental toughness, athlete mindset, performance coaching, resilience, mental training, sports psychologySummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, Andrew Crome delves into the often unseen mental preparation that Olympians undergo. He discusses the importance of mental training, emotional regulation, and visualization techniques that athletes use to prepare for competition. Crome busts common myths about Olympians, emphasizing that they experience nerves just like everyone else, but they have developed strategies to manage them. He provides practical tools for listeners to implement in their own performances, highlighting the significance of mental resilience and preparation for unexpected challenges.TakeawaysOlympians engage in extensive mental preparation.Everyone experiences nerves; it's how you manage them that matters.Confidence is built through consistent practice and small wins.Mental toughness involves acknowledging emotions, not ignoring them.Visualization should include rehearsing adversity, not just success.Athletes prepare for unexpected challenges as part of their training.Emotional regulation techniques can be applied by anyone, not just Olympians.Naming and noticing feelings can help regain control during pressure situations.Creating a pre-performance reset can enhance focus and performance.The mental work behind Olympic success is accessible to everyone.Sound bites"Everyone gets nervous.""Prepare for the unexpected.""Emotional regulation is key."

SummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, host Andrew Crome discusses the importance of mental toughness and how to manage self-doubt and negative thoughts. Through the story of a gymnast named Maya, he introduces a mindset shift that encourages athletes to view their thoughts as pieces on a chessboard, rather than trying to eliminate them. Crome outlines a three-step process to help athletes relate to their thoughts differently and refocus on their performance goals. He emphasizes the need for practice and offers insights from the British Olympic rowing team to illustrate the importance of focusing on progress rather than self-doubt.TakeawaysMental toughness is about showing up despite negative thoughts.You are not your thoughts; you are the observer of them.Visualizing thoughts as chess pieces can help manage them.It's important to notice thoughts without judgment.Focusing on what matters in the moment is key to performance.The British Olympic rowing team asks, 'Will it make the boat go faster?'Practice is essential for developing mental skills.You can still perform well with doubts present.Being the board means holding space for all thoughts.Responding with action instead of overthinking leads to success.Sound bites"This takes practice. This takes time.""Will it make the boat go faster?""Just notice that battle, be the board."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Game Gym00:33 The Mindset Shift: Competing with the Noise01:03 The Story of Maya: A Gymnast's Struggle04:37 The Chessboard Analogy: Thoughts as Pieces06:06 Practicing Mental Toughness: A Three-Step Process08:11 Focus on Progress: The British Olympic Rowing Team09:22 Conclusion: Be the Board, Not the PiecesKeywordsmental game, mindset, mental toughness, athletes, performance, self-doubt, focus, resilience, mental skills, competition

SummaryIn this episode, Andrew Crome addresses a common challenge faced by athletes when they transition to a higher level of competition. Many athletes who have previously been stars on their teams find themselves struggling to adapt when they move up, often feeling overlooked and confused by their reduced playing time. Crome emphasizes that this experience is not a personal failure but rather a natural part of growth. He introduces the concept of 'hinge moments,' which are pivotal opportunities that can arise unexpectedly, and stresses the importance of being mentally and physically prepared for these moments.Crome provides practical strategies for athletes to navigate this transition effectively. He encourages a shift in focus from status—such as starting positions and scoring—to standards, which include daily training habits and personal improvement. By setting controllable goals and maintaining a positive mindset, athletes can build resilience and readiness for their next opportunity. The episode concludes with actionable steps for listeners to implement in their training routines, reinforcing the idea that growth often occurs outside of immediate rewards and recognition.Keywordsathlete mindset, mental performance, hinge moments, sports psychology, athlete transition, motivation, training habits, confidence, personal growth, sports coachingTakeaways"You're just in the early chapter of growth at a higher level.""The bench is not where your career ends. The bench is where a lot of careers are built.""Opportunity doesn't reward potential. It rewards preparation.""When you've always been the best, you can accidentally start believing that being the best is the price of admission to feel confident.""Start measuring success by your standards, your values."Sound bites"New level, new learning curve.""Opportunity doesn't reward potential. It rewards preparation.""If you're moving up a level and your role changes, it doesn't mean that you're failing."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Athlete Transitions01:51 Understanding the Hinge Moment04:09 Shifting Focus: Status vs. Standards05:55 Mental Mythbusters: Growth Without Game Time06:29 Preparing for Your Hinge Moment07:58 Five Ways to Prepare for Opportunity12:25 Wrapping Up: Embracing Change and Growth

SummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym Podcast, Andrew Crome discusses the critical role of mental preparation in achieving peak performance. He emphasizes that success under pressure is not about luck but about preparation. Through practical tools and a structured approach, he guides listeners on how to develop a mission mindset, create a game script, and activate their game face. The episode also highlights the importance of visualization and navigating choice points during performance, ultimately encouraging athletes to take control of their mental game.TakeawaysMental preparation is essential for peak performance.Hope is not a strategy; preparation is key.A mission mindset defines your competitive intent.Your game script outlines specific actions to take.Game face activation helps trigger your competitive identity.Visualization is a powerful tool in sports psychology.The choice point is where mental preparation pays off.It's not about the setback, but how you respond.Confidence comes from consistent preparation, not hype.Take control of your mental game to enhance performance.Keywordsmental preparation, performance, mindset training, athletes, visualization, game face, mission mindset, game script, mental performance coach, confidence

Keywordsmindfulness, sports performance, mental game, CALM tool, emotional regulation, focus, pressure management, athlete training, mental resilience, competitive advantageSummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, Andrew Crome discusses the importance of mindfulness in sports performance. He introduces the concept of mindfulness, debunks common myths, and explains how it can serve as a competitive advantage for athletes. Andrew presents the C.A.L.M tool, a four-part mental reset strategy designed to help athletes manage pressure and maintain focus. The episode includes practical exercises and real-world examples to illustrate the effectiveness of mindfulness in high-pressure situations.TakeawaysMindfulness is a skill that can be trained.Being present helps athletes avoid getting stuck in the past or future.Mindfulness is about focusing your mind, not clearing it.Athletes can bounce back faster from mistakes with mindfulness.Mindfulness enhances emotional regulation and reduces anxiety.The CALM tool helps athletes act with intention under pressure.Adaptability is crucial for athletes in changing situations.Letting go of mistakes allows athletes to stay focused.Mental focus is essential for performance consistency.Mindfulness can be applied in everyday life, not just sports.Sound bites"Mindfulness is a competitive advantage.""Mindfulness helps you stay in the present.""Mindfulness gives you space to choose."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mindfulness in Sports01:31 Understanding Mindfulness: Definition and Misconceptions05:02 The Science Behind Mindfulness and Performance07:00 Real-World Examples of Mindfulness in Action08:47 Introducing the CALM Tool for Athletes14:01 Applying CALM: A Practical Exercise16:49 Conclusion: Mindfulness as a Tool for Control

KeywordsGame Day Power Level, mental performance, athlete mindset, confidence, pregame routine, energy management, performance psychology, sports psychology, mental game, athlete preparationSummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, Andrew Crome discusses the concept of Game Day Power Levels, a tool designed to help athletes find their optimal mental and physical state before performance. He explains the three power levels—low, optimal, and overload—and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and preparation in achieving peak performance. The conversation also addresses common myths about confidence in sports and provides practical strategies for athletes to manage their energy levels effectively. Crome encourages listeners to develop a pregame routine that aligns with their ideal power level to enhance their performance consistently.TakeawaysGame Day Power Level helps athletes find their optimal performance state.There are three power levels: low, optimal, and overload.Self-awareness is crucial for managing performance energy.Confidence comes from preparation, not external events.Don't wait for a big play to feel ready; train your mindset.Every athlete has a unique ideal power level.Develop a pregame routine to achieve your optimal state.Recognize patterns in your performance related to power levels.Use music and self-talk to boost energy before games.Breathing techniques can help calm nerves before performance.Sound bites"I just need to make a big play.""Train yourself to be ready.""Don't wait to feel ready."

KeywordsHigh Performance Parenting, youth sports, parental support, athlete development, coaching, sports psychology, parenting tips, athlete autonomy, goal setting, team selectionSummaryIn this conversation, Andrew Crome and Eira Parry discuss the vital role of parents in supporting young athletes. Eira, the founder of High Performance Parenting, shares insights on how parents can navigate the complexities of youth sports, emphasizing the importance of emotional support, autonomy, and character development over mere outcomes. They explore strategies for effective communication, goal setting, and handling the pressures of competition, ultimately advocating for a balanced approach that fosters both athletic and personal growth in children.TakeawaysParents play a crucial role in supporting young athletes.Emotional support is more important than technical advice during competitions.Encouraging autonomy helps children develop life skills.Post-game conversations should focus on effort and process, not just outcomes.Parents should avoid adding pressure during competitions.Goal setting should involve the child’s input and can focus on enjoyment.Team selection can be a source of conflict; understanding the process is key.Mistakes are part of the learning process; embrace them as opportunities.Parents should also enjoy the sports journey, not just facilitate it.Character development is more important than winning. Sound bites"Sport can shape great human beings.""Parents should enjoy the journey too.""Who do I want my child to become?"Chapters00:00 Introduction to High Performance Parenting03:45 The Journey of a High Performance Coach06:04 Understanding Parental Involvement in Sports08:53 Supporting Young Athletes from the Sidelines11:40 Navigating Game Day Dynamics14:03 The Importance of Communication After Performances16:32 Managing Pressure and Expectations18:57 The Role of Parents as Cheerleaders21:25 Preparing for Competition Day24:03 Embracing Mistakes and Learning26:35 Goal Setting and Expectations in Sports30:22 The Power of Goal-Setting33:35 Navigating Team Selection Conflicts38:02 Building Independence in Young Athletes40:26 Fostering Character Development Through Sport42:52 Quickfire Round: Fun Insights and Reflections

Book Your Initial SessionKeywordsmental performance, choice point, E plus R equals O, athlete mindset, sports psychology, mental game, resilience, response control, performance improvement, athlete storiesSummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, host Andrew Crome discusses the importance of mental performance in sports, focusing on how athletes can better respond to challenges and setbacks. He introduces two key frameworks: the Choice Point and the formula E plus R equals O (Event + Response = Outcome). Through real athlete stories, he illustrates how these concepts can be applied to improve performance and mindset. The episode also addresses common myths about control and effort in sports, emphasizing the significance of response over outcome. Finally, practical applications for daily life and sports are provided, encouraging listeners to recognize their choice points and respond in alignment with their values.TakeawaysWhat do you do when things don't go your way?Every single day, there's going to be high stressful moments.That's where the mental game lives.You have full control over how you respond.It's not just the event that dictates the outcome.You get to choose what that response is.Recognizing when you're at that choice point is crucial.Effort doesn't matter because it's all down to luck?You can respond with, because I don't need the outcome.Keep choosing towards moves.Sound bites"That's where the mental game lives.""You get to choose what that response is.""Keep choosing towards moves."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Performance02:31 Understanding the Choice Point05:15 E plus R equals O: The Formula for Success09:49 Real Athlete Stories: Applying the Concepts14:54 Busting Myths in Mental Performance16:48 Practical Applications for Daily Life20:33 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Book your initial session with Andrew hereFollow Andrew on Instagram @thementalgamegymIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, host Andrew Crome discusses the importance of mental training for athletes, emphasizing how elite athletes like Michael Phelps, Serena Williams, Connor McDavid, Patrick Mahomes, and Kobe Bryant utilize mental strategies to enhance their performance. The conversation covers techniques such as visualization, self-talk, mindfulness, and the ability to reset after mistakes, providing listeners with actionable insights to improve their mental game.TakeawaysThe best athletes train their minds with the same intensity as their bodies.Visualization includes preparing for both success and potential setbacks.Self-talk can help athletes reset and refocus during competition.Mindfulness allows athletes to stay present and avoid dwelling on past mistakes.Having a routine to reset after mistakes is crucial for performance.Kobe Bryant's obsession with improvement exemplifies dedication to mental training.Mental preparation should be tailored to the individual athlete's needs.Practicing mindfulness can be integrated into daily life, not just during competition.Repetition of positive self-talk phrases builds mental strength.Athletes can benefit from learning to manage their thoughts and emotions effectively.Sound bites"Visualize what could go wrong.""Speak to yourself like a champion.""Patrick's superpower is recovery."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Reps02:02 Michael Phelps: Visualization and Mental Preparation05:01 Serena Williams: The Power of Self-Talk08:29 Connor McDavid: Mindfulness in Action12:11 Patrick Mahomes: The Art of Resetting14:58 Kobe Bryant: Obsession with Improvementmental training, visualization, self-talk, mindfulness, resetting, elite athletes, mental performance, sports psychology, confidence, resilience

Keywordsmental game, confidence, motivation, visualization, athlete support, game face, performance, mental training, overcoming obstacles, sports psychologySummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, Andrew dives into a Q&A session focused on mastering the mental game for athletes. He discusses building a reliable game face, staying motivated during stagnation, maintaining composure without sufficient game time, how parents can support their young athletes, and the effective use of visualization techniques. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mindset, process over outcome, and the role of mental training in achieving athletic success.TakeawaysBuilding a game face helps athletes perform confidently under pressure.Focus on daily actions rather than chasing outcomes to overcome stagnation.Staying composed during tough times is crucial for athletes.Parents should support their athletes by focusing on effort and progress.Visualization is a powerful tool for mental preparation before performances.Repetition of positive affirmations reinforces a confident identity.Athletes should lean into their values during challenging moments.Asking reflective questions can empower young athletes.Training smarter involves focusing on controllable actions.Mental reps can enhance physical performance without replacing it.Sound bites"How do I build and use a game face?""Training smarter, not just harder.""Ask questions, don't add pressure."

Keywordscoaching, athlete mindset, mental game, sports psychology, youth sports, coaching strategies, performance, enjoyment in sports, mistakes, composureSummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, Andrew Crome discusses essential mindset habits that coaches can implement to foster mentally stronger athletes. He emphasizes the importance of normalizing the mental game, handling mistakes as learning opportunities, shifting focus from results to process, modeling composure, and coaching the whole person. These strategies aim to create a supportive environment that enhances athletes' enjoyment and performance in sports.TakeawaysYour athlete's mindset plays a bigger role than most people realize.The number one reason why kids quit sports is lack of enjoyment.Great coaches normalize the mental game and talk about it openly.Mistakes should be used as teaching moments, not punishments.Shifting focus from results to process builds real confidence.Modeling composure helps athletes learn how to handle pressure.Coaching the whole person fosters trust and belonging.Consistency and intentionality are key in implementing these strategies.Athletes need to feel safe to take risks and express themselves.Building psychological safety leads to more coachable athletes.Sound bites"Normalize the mental game.""Success is peace of mind.""Model composure as a coach."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Coaching Mindset06:48 Handling Mistakes as Learning Opportunities14:04 Shifting Focus from Results to Process19:15 Modeling Composure as a Coach23:07 Coaching the Whole Person

Keywordsneutral thinking, positive thinking, negative thinking, mental performance, mindset, athletes, performance psychology, growth mindset, mental skills, self-talkSummaryIn this episode, Andrew Crome discusses the concept of neutral thinking as a powerful alternative to both positive and negative thinking. He explains how positive thinking can sometimes backfire, especially under pressure, and how negative thinking can be detrimental to performance. Crome introduces neutral thinking as a grounded, honest approach that focuses on the facts and encourages action without the extremes of false positivity or negativity. He emphasizes the importance of belief and mindset in shaping behavior and performance, providing practical strategies for applying neutral thinking in high-pressure situations.TakeawaysPositive thinking doesn't always work, especially under pressure.Neutral thinking is a performance-focused mindset that is honest and judgment-free.Negative thinking can be ten times more powerful when spoken out loud.Words matter; what you say to yourself shapes your identity.Belief can significantly change behavior and performance.Neutral thinking combines hope with realism and strategy.You don't have to eliminate every doubt to perform well.Focus on what's true and what's next in challenging situations.Teaching teammates about neutral thinking can improve group performance.Stay grounded and avoid fake positivity to enhance mental resilience.Sound bites"Positive thinking doesn't always work.""Belief can change your behavior.""What's true right now? What's next?"Chapters00:00 The Limitations of Positive Thinking08:42 Understanding Neutral Thinking11:18 The Dangers of Negative Thinking15:15 The Power of Belief and Growth Mindset16:00 Practical Applications of Neutral Thinking

In this episode of the Mental Game Gym Podcast, Andrew Crome delves into the concept of real confidence, distinguishing between the fleeting feeling of confidence and the deeper trust in one's abilities and preparation. He emphasizes the importance of building unshakable confidence through consistent actions, preparation, and mental habits, rather than relying on feelings or results. The discussion includes practical strategies for athletes to develop their confidence, close the confidence gap, and respond effectively to challenges. Crome encourages listeners to take action despite doubts and to focus on their values to guide their performance.takeawaysConfidence is not just a feeling; it's a trust in your abilities.Real confidence is built through actions, not just positive thinking.Fragile confidence relies on results; unshakable confidence is built on preparation.You can perform well even when you don't feel confident.The confidence gap is closed by taking committed action.Daily preparation routines can strengthen confidence over time.Self-talk should be based on values, not emotions.Recognizing and releasing negative thoughts is crucial for performance.Building a confidence bank helps remind you of past successes.Acting with confidence, even in doubt, is key to growth.Keywordsconfidence, mental performance, athletes, self-belief, trust, action, mental game, preparation, habits, resilience

Keywordsmental performance, sports psychology, youth sports, mental resilience, coaching, self-talk, visualization, goal setting, arousal control, parent-athlete communicationYou can find Kevin via his Instagram and his websiteKevin also mentioned the book Mind Gym as a resource for athletes, parents, coaches, or anyone who wants to improve the mental side of their life.SummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, host Andrew Crohm speaks with Kevin Farrell, a seasoned baseball coach and R2MR master trainer. They discuss the critical importance of mental resilience in sports, particularly for youth athletes. Kevin shares insights on the 'Big Four Plus' tools for mental readiness, including goal setting, visualization, self-talk, and arousal control. The conversation emphasizes the need for fun in sports, the impact of parental support, and the significance of self-awareness in athletes. Kevin also highlights the challenges of negative self-talk and the necessity of mental preparation for optimal performance.TakeawaysMental resilience is crucial for athletes' performance.Self-talk can significantly impact an athlete's mindset.Fun should be a priority in youth sports to keep kids engaged.Goal setting helps break down overwhelming tasks into manageable pieces.Visualization techniques can enhance performance and confidence.Arousal control through breathing techniques is essential for managing stress.Negative self-talk is often overlooked but can hinder performance.Parents should focus on supporting their children rather than critiquing them after games.Mental skills need to be practiced just like physical skills.Progress in sports and life is rarely linear; ups and downs are normal.TitlesUnlocking Mental Resilience in SportsThe Power of Self-Talk for AthletesSound bites"Kids want to play, not work.""You control how you play.""Progress is never linear."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Performance Coaching02:54 The Importance of Mental Resilience in Sports05:40 Team Dynamics and Mental Preparation08:59 The Role of Fun in Youth Sports11:49 Personal Experiences and Mental Health Awareness15:04 Unpacking the Big Four Plus Tools17:51 Implementing Mental Skills in Everyday Life34:45 The Importance of Preparation37:09 Mental Skills in Sports39:36 Positive Reinforcement and Performance44:21 Routine and Focus in Performance49:04 Mental Health Education in Youth Sports55:50 Navigating Parent-Athlete Conversations01:01:11 Building a Supportive Environment01:06:23 Overcoming Slumps and Mental Challenges

ResourcesThe Confidence Game GuideFREE Mindfulness Exercises & ChecklistFREE Confidence ChecklistParent GuidebookSummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, host Andrew Crome delves into the crucial topic of self-awareness, emphasizing its foundational role in mental performance. He discusses common struggles athletes face regarding self-awareness and provides practical tools and daily practices to enhance it. The episode highlights the importance of recognizing thoughts and emotions without judgment, fostering a mindset that allows for better control over performance and emotional responses.TakeawaysSelf-awareness is essential for regulating emotions and performance.Common struggles include mindlessness, emotional reactivity, and blaming others.Self-awareness can be trained and improved with practice.Daily reflection journals help identify patterns in thoughts and emotions.Using a traffic light system can aid in self-check-ins during performance.Naming emotions creates distance and helps manage them better.Body scans can reveal physical tension that affects mental state.Feedback from others can provide insights into performance.Self-awareness is a continuous practice, not a one-time achievement.Awareness leads to better focus, control, and confidence.Sound bites"Ask yourself, am I where I need to be?""Self-awareness is like a mirror.""The more you observe, the more you learn."Chapters00:00 The Foundation of Self-Awareness03:11 Common Struggles in Self-Awareness04:50 Tools for Building Self-Awareness10:03 Daily Practices for Self-Awarenessself-awareness, mental performance, emotional regulation, athlete mindset, mindfulness, training, reflection, emotional intelligence, performance improvement, mental game

You can find Emir on Instagram and through Mind To Muscle in Barrie, OntarioKeywordsmental performance, ice dancing, athlete transition, coaching, resilience, sports psychology, identity, competition, strength training, personal growth.SummaryIn this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, host Andrew Crome speaks with Emir Kan, a three-time Turkish national ice dance champion, about his journey from competitive athlete to strength and conditioning coach. Emir shares insights on the mental challenges faced during his athletic career, the importance of resilience, and how he helps young athletes navigate their own journeys. The conversation delves into the transition from sport, the search for identity, and the lessons learned from competition that shape Emir's coaching philosophy today.TakeawaysEmir Kan is a three-time Turkish national ice dance champion.He transitioned from competitive skating to strength and conditioning coaching.Mental resilience is crucial for athletes during and after their careers.Finding a supportive partner in ice dance is essential for success.Emir emphasizes the importance of asking for help as an athlete.Failure is a part of the journey and should not deter athletes.Success is a continuous journey, not a destination.Coaching is about understanding and empathizing with athletes' struggles.Rediscovering passion in sports can lead to new opportunities.It's important for athletes to prepare for life after sport.

In this episode of the Mental Game Gym podcast, Andrew Crome discusses the importance of mental control for athletes. He introduces the concept of the 'inner voice' that often creates self-doubt and anxiety before competitions. Using the metaphor of a bus, he explains how athletes can learn to manage their thoughts and emotions, allowing them to focus on what they can control. Crome shares practical strategies for recognizing and naming these thoughts, encouraging athletes to acknowledge their presence without letting them dictate their performance. He emphasizes that even elite athletes experience these challenges, but they learn to navigate them effectively.TakeawaysEvery athlete has that voice of doubt.You can't stop the passengers from talking.Focus on what you can control.The steering wheel represents your controllables.Recognize your thoughts without judgment.Naming your doubts can reduce their power.Practice driving your bus despite distractions.The goal is to drive confidently.You can feel nervous and still perform well.Building mental endurance is key to success.mental game, athletes, performance, inner voice, self-control, Olympic athletes, mental endurance, focus, mindfulness, sports psychology

This episode is a milestone — our very first guest on The Mental Game Gym! I’m joined by fellow mental performance coach Charles Miller, and together we dive into the tools, stories, and strategies that help athletes thrive under pressure.We talk about why athletes often overlook the mental side of performance, how to build confidence without chasing stats or comparisons, and the reset strategies that can help you bounce back after mistakes. We also tackle the role parents and coaches play in supporting (or sometimes accidentally adding pressure to) an athlete’s mental game.To keep things fun, we wrap up with a rapid-fire round where Charles shares his go-to hype song, favourite mental skill, and favourite book.If you’re an athlete who wants to play with more confidence, a parent who wants to better support your kid, or a coach who cares about the mental side as much as the physical, this episode is packed with insights you can use right away.Tune in, share it with a teammate or parent, and subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes.You can find Charles at @miller_consulting on Instagram and via his website www.millerconsulting2020.com

What if one simple question could help you cut through distractions, silence self-doubt, and lock in on what really matters to your performance?In this episode, I share the story of the British rowing team that hadn’t won Olympic gold in 88 years — until they adopted a ruthless mindset: “Will it make the boat go faster?” Every decision, from training to rest to lifestyle choices, was filtered through that one question. The result? Gold at the 2000 Sydney Games.You’ll learn:Why this question works so powerfully as a mental performance toolHow to apply it to hockey (and any sport) to stay focused, confident, and consistentReal stories of athletes who’ve used their own version of this filter to come back from injury, stop overthinking, and play freerThis episode will challenge you to create your own mental compass — the question that keeps you aligned when it matters most.Listen in, and then DM me your version of the boat question.Visit me on Instagram @thementalgamegym