

Coaching Mind's Podcast: Perform at your best!
Mental Training Plan
This podcast is designed to help people take back control of their mind and body in high-pressure situations. We primarily focus on athletic situations usually spend time talking with athletes and coaches about how to use these tools in an athletic setting. However, we firmly believe that these are tools and skills that you will be able to use for the rest of your life in any situation or setting that causes your mind or body to get off track. Whether that is losing focus to distractions, losing confidence, that little voice in the back of your mind creating doubt, or wondering if you have what it takes, we use tools and strategies backed by cognitive brain research and neuropsychology to help YOU take back control and perform at your best when it matters the most.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 4, 2024 • 50min
#113 - Crafting Champions and Building Brotherhood: Inside the Triumph of Westfield's Football Legacy with Coach Jake Gilbert
Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Westfield's football program alongside Coach Jake Gilbert. From struggles to triumphs, this story paints a picture of a team that went from underdogs to champions, united by a simple motto: "out work, out love." With each game, Gilbert's players not only make their mark on the field but also forge lasting bonds of brotherhood. This episode explores what it truly means to be a winner, both in sports and in life.We'll discuss the challenge of blending talented individuals into a cohesive team, where the group's success matters more than personal achievements. Coach Gilbert shares insights into the strategy and emotions involved in this process, emphasizing the importance of every player understanding their role. And it's not just about game time; the team's dedication starts long before the season kicks off, with rigorous training sessions that shape both their bodies and their character.We'll also take a closer look at the unique dynamic between Coach Gilbert and his players, as he navigates the fine line between mentorship and impartiality while coaching his son. Through it all, we'll explore how leadership and team culture go hand in hand, fostering personal growth while upholding shared values.This episode isn't just about football; it's a lesson in effective coaching and the impact of prioritizing people over victories. So come along as we journey through the highs and lows of Westfield's football legacy, where the spirit of greatness lives on well beyond the final whistle.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/athletesAre 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

Feb 26, 2024 • 46min
#112 - Years 1 & 2 coaching football at a small high school: Jeremy Fendley and Dan Douglas
Discover the secrets to transforming a high school sports team from average to exceptional with insights from two seasoned coaches. As we welcome Coach Fendley and Coach Dan Douglas to our Coaching Minds podcast, they share their unique perspectives on instilling a winning mentality in athletes, drawing from military experiences and honoring the legacy of the late Coach George Gilbert. The wisdom imparted in this episode promises to equip you with the strategies to navigate the nuances of coaching, particularly when taking the helm mid-season.Technology can be both a blessing and a curse in the world of school athletics, and we're breaking down that duality. Hear firsthand from our guests about how they tackle the challenges of engaging the digital generation in the timeless lessons of sportsmanship and discipline. The introduction of 'pride pins' and the cultivation of character in our young athletes underscores an approach that transcends the scoreboard, focusing on the development of individuals poised to impact the world positively.As the conversation unfolds, listen to stories of unexpected head coach appointments and the critical nature of trust in creating a cohesive team. The off-season isn't just downtime; it's a crucial period for growth and preparation. Our guests underscore the importance of professional development for coaches, as well as establishing a team identity rooted in accountability and strength. This episode isn't just about plays and drills—it's about fostering resilience and potential in every player, and in doing so, redefining the very essence of victory.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/athletesAre 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

Feb 20, 2024 • 34min
#111 - Isaac "fails" to run a marathon and overcomes adversity
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/athletesAre 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

Feb 7, 2024 • 22min
#110 - OTS #3: Navigating the Transfer Portal-Loyalty and Team Culture
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.comAre 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/athletesAre 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

Jan 30, 2024 • 36min
#109 - Matt Comer's Rim to Rim To Rim turns into a 100K in the Grand Canyon
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/athletesAre 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

Jan 22, 2024 • 37min
#108 - Swinging Beyond the Fairway: Cailyn Henderson's Journey Toward Mental Toughness on the Golf Course
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/athletesAre 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

Jan 17, 2024 • 36min
#107 - From Football Fields to Battlefields: Andy Sweet's Lessons on Strength and Leadership
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/podcastAre 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/athletesAre 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

Nov 21, 2023 • 23min
#106 Improving Athlete Motivation & Mindset
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/athletesAre 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

Aug 23, 2023 • 29min
#105 - Helping Athletes Control Physical Energy Levels
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/athletesAre 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

Aug 16, 2023 • 25min
#104 - Improving Athlete Focus
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/athletesAre 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