In this rich and insightful episode, Demi welcomes Mental Performance Consultant David Durand, author of Bet On It: A Psychological Approach to Coaching Gen Z and Beyond. Together, they dive into the modern adolescent athlete's experience, how identity, perfectionism, and the nervous system intersect, and what coaches, parents, and athletes can do to restore balance and connection under pressure.

David shares the science and story behind his BET Method—Breath, Eyes, Touch—a practical and powerful toolset designed to help athletes regulate their nervous systems, increase self-awareness, and improve performance through precision, not pressure.

Topics Covered

David's personal journey from overtraining athlete to sport psychology consultant

Nervous system regulation and the BET Method (Breath, Eyes, Touch)

Understanding the adolescent brain and Gen Z's unique stressors

How identity impacts performance and burnout

The myth of "doing more" vs. training with intention

How coaches can create space between stimulus and response

Tactical examples from volleyball and basketball athletes

Strategies for coaches to intervene supportively, not reactively

How parents can support athletes without adding pressure

Resources & Mentions

Book: Bet On It: A Psychological Approach to Coaching Gen Z and Beyond – Available on Amazon

Website: www.realdevelopment.org – Resources, contact info, and bonus booklets

Follow on Instagram: @beyondhorizonsperformance