Ever pushed your limits and hit a wall, only to find a deep well of resilience you never knew you had? Zeke does just that and more as he recounts his grueling experiences at the Chicago and Indianapolis Monumental Marathons. With each stride and stumble, he imparts the lessons learned on mental fortitude and the essential adjustments needed when tackling such formidable challenges. Join us as we traverse his journey of perseverance, exploring the depths of mental strategies that range from mantras and journaling to visualization. Celebrate with us the milestones of surpassing 60,000 downloads and an ever-expanding global reach while drawing inspiration from the courage it takes to rise above personal setbacks.

Feel the heart-pounding excitement and the crushing disappointments as Zeke peels back the curtain on the raw emotions of marathon running. He shares the intricate dance of nutrition, pacing, and the mental battle waged when the body screams for reprieve. There is solace in solidarity, and as Isaac unfolds his story, you'll find company in the quest for overcoming adversity. Whether it's a marathon, a personal goal, or a Super Bowl comeback, this episode is an ode to the indomitable spirit that turns setbacks into setups for comebacks. Strap in for an intimate look at the power of positivity, the importance of external encouragement, and the steadfast determination to cross any finish line life throws your way.

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/athletes

Are 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

On The Spot: Where the questions are pulled on the spot, no prep time just raw honest answers on the spot. Are the tides turning in college football team-building? Strap in as we tackle the game-changing dynamics of the transfer portal and its effects on loyalty and team culture. It's a wild ride through the strategies that coaches must employ, akin to planning a Grand Canyon adventure, where every step counts and preparation is key. Discover how the art of persuasion and the nurturing of a robust locker room environment are no longer mere options, but necessities for keeping a roster intact in this professionalized sports era. We don't shy away from tough conversations, either; the debate about the future of sports contracts and the idea of scholarship repayment for athletes who leave early will have you rethinking the accountability in college sports.

As we gear up for another insightful discussion, remember that MTP.Academy is your access to exclusive content and community support. We're not just here to chat; we're here to guide and connect with fellow sports enthusiasts and mental training professionals. Whether you're grappling with the complexities of decision-making in sports or simply seeking a sounding board for your sports journey, we're one click away at mentaltrainingplan.com

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/athletes

Are 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

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/athletes

Are 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

Have you ever stood at life's crossroads, contemplating a leap of faith that could redefine everything? Cailyn Henderson did just that, swapping collegiate golf greens for the arduous chase toward the professional ranks. This episode invites you into Cailyn's world, where she lays bare the mental challenges that came with this transformative decision. Her story sheds light on the seldom-discussed mental side of sports, particularly the high stakes of the LPGA's Q school, and the subsequent lows that can follow. As we navigate her journey, Cailyn reveals how redirecting her focus towards her company, Fore the Girls, and embracing a larger social media role provided a pivot point to redefine her identity beyond the sport.

The mental side of golf is certainly a challenge. From having confidence in tough shots to dealing with very real challenges like the putting yips, Cailyn explores some of the challenges that she has faced on the course. To visit her brand, Fore the Girls, check out forethegirlsgolf.com and be sure to follow her journey on Instagram: @chendo23

If you are looking for some help with the mental side of your own golf game or perhaps even a team that you coach, check out mtp.academy to learn more about the resources we have for year round mental performance training. 

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/athletes

Are 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

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/podcast

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/athletes

Are 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

Welcome to a power-packed episode of the Coaching Minds podcast, where we guide you on how to foster a championship mindset in your athletes and keep their motivation burning high. We kick off with the importance of expectation, perserverance, and determination. Discover the impact of big goals, the influence of media and music, and the critical role of a strong 'why'. You'll be equipped with practical tools to keep your athletes motivated leading to their personal and team success.

Are you ready to take your team's mental performance training to the next level? The MTP Academy makes a year round program as simple as printing the worksheet and playing the video. We guide your athletes through developing their own customized plan and set the stage for you to step in to help with implementation and accountability. For more, check out mtp.academy to start your free 5 day trial 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/athletes

Are 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

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/athletes

Are 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

In this episode of Coaching Minds, we delve into the intricacies of enhancing athlete focus and performance. We explore the science behind concentration, introducing tools like concentration grids and activities designed to help athletes refine both narrow and broad focus. Did you know that just a few minutes of targeted training a week can make a noticeable difference in performance?

Our discussion also touches on the significance of mental preparation in sports. We talk about the value of a holistic game plan - before, during, and after the match, the role of positive self-talk, and the balance of celebrating triumphs while acknowledging areas for growth. We'll also introduce some unique techniques, such as 'Flush and Burn' and 'Permission to Forget', which are designed to assist athletes in managing their focus. Join us for a genuine conversation on elevating your coaching approach.

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/athletes

Are 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

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/athletes

Are 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

As coaches, we have all seen confidence's crucial role in an athlete's performance, mindset, and overall success. Through engaging discussions and expert insights, we provide valuable strategies and practical tips for coaches, trainers, and mentors to empower their athletes and help them build unwavering confidence.

Ready to take your team's mental training to the next level? Check out the MTP Academy by visiting our website: mtp.academy, and as always, please feel free to visit us at mentaltrainingplan.com if you want to get in touch or provide feedback!

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/athletes

Are 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