In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Chad, a seasoned sports psychologist who brings both professional insight and personal experience to the table. After an injury ended his college athletic career, Dr. Chad went on a mission to become the kind of guide he once needed—blending lived experience with years of mental performance expertise.

We dig deep into what it really means to find consistency as an athlete-starting with emotional control. Whether it’s managing pre-game nerves or channeling intense excitement, Dr. Chad breaks down how athletes can “settle in” to performance mode through the Goldilocks Principle-not too much, not too little, but just right.

From mental vs. physical prime, to self-talk tone, to the nuanced mental demands of different positions like libero, setter, and hitter, this episode is packed with insights. We also explore the subtle but crucial line between mental health (survival) and mental performance (thriving)—and how both matter.

🔍 Topics include:

• How overwhelmed athletes can relieve pressure without quitting their sport
  
  
• Balancing social life and competitive goals
  
  
• Why even elite athletes need mental support
  
  
• Medication vs. movement: finding what works for you
  
  
• Social media's role in shaping young athletes’ mindsets
  
  
• The expectations vs. reality of college athletics
  
  

With real talk, honest advice, and actionable tools, Dr. Chad helps athletes-and those who support them-tune in to what really matters. Because greatness isn’t just about physical ability… it’s about mastering the mental game.