Dr. Megan Buning, Clinical Associate Professor at Florida State University and instructor in the FSU Coach Interdisciplinary Center, studies mental performance and helps athletes and professionals perform under pressure. She is also a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.

Exceptional athletic performance often depends on mental toughness. While some people seem to develop this naturally, the good news is that these skills can also be taught.

A former professional softball pitcher herself, Dr. Buning understands what it takes to get “into the zone.” In this episode, she explains the science behind staying calm and focused under pressure, whether on the playing field or in high-stakes moments like presentations and leadership decisions. Her insights show how mental performance training can help anyone perform better in sports, careers, and everyday life.