Are you frustrated watching an athlete crush it one day… then coast the next? You see the talent, you know the toughness is there—but something’s missing: consistent effort.

In this episode, I break down a raw comment from a coach and dad: “He has the toughness to handle challenges, but he doesn’t always push himself to his limits.”

Why does that happen? And more importantly—what can you do about it?

We dive into the psychology and neuroscience 🧠 behind why athletes hold back, explore how to close the gap between capability and consistency, and unpack the mindset blocks that keep players from going all in.

Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode delivers actionable strategies to help unlock full potential and build mental toughness that lasts.

This one’s for anyone who knows growth happens outside the comfort zone—but wants the secret to help getting there consistently - and the secret may surprise you.

Episodes Mentioned:

011 - Strategies to Overcome an Athlete's Biggest Mental Challenges (Part 1 of 2)

012 - MORE Strategies to Overcome Common Athlete Pain Points (Part 2 of 2)

021 - The Pain Point Series Pt 3: I wish he realized how much his character shaped his opportunities

0:00 – Intro: The Gap Between Capability and Consistency

1:26 – The Yellowstone Wildfire

2:16 – Pain Point: He's tough, be he doesn't always push his limits.

4:46 – Digging Deeper - The Brain Mechanics of Effort and Hesitation

9:22 – Where Growth Happens (Comfort in Discomfort)

13:05 – Intensity Personified: David Goggins & the 40% Rule

14:51 – The Secret

16:16 – If I Were in Your Shoes (and I am) / Understanding Why Athletes May be Holding Back

18:42 – Perspectives from Experts in Sports Performance & Training

19:36 – Questions to Ask (Awareness, Trust & Ownership)

23:26 – Action Steps for Parents, Coaches & Athletes

23:48 – Effort & Mindset Tool 1: Find Your Next Gear

24:22 – Effort & Mindset Tool 2: Beat Your Yesterday (& Screw Everyone Else's)

25:05 – Effort & Mindset Tool 3: Reframe Discomfort

27:02 – Sticks & Thorns: A Lesson from the Eagle Nest

28:14 – Closing Thoughts & How You Can Help