Raising Elite Competitors

Latest Episodes:

The Role of Fun in Competitive Sports w/ Mental Skills Coach Julia Allain Feb 27, 2024

Show notes

Is the pressure to win taking all the fun out of sports for our kids? Let’s be honest: In the high-stakes world of competitive sports, young athletes often forget to enjoy the game due to the pressure to excel and succeed. So, what can we do to help them enjoy the game again? That’s what my conversation with mental skills coach Julia is all about!
What’s Covered:

Julia chats about why fun is a game-changer in competitive sports.
How to keep the love of the game alive amidst the pressure to perform.
Julia breaks down the top three reasons athletes hit the field (or court).
A deep dive into the teenage mind and tips for parents riding the sports rollercoaster.
An inspiring story of mental skills training in action and its impact.
The crucial role of coaches and parents in making sports fun again.
Discussing the stress of youth sports and turning losses into lessons.

Catch my full conversation with Julia Allain on this episode to dive deeper into how fun and competitiveness can coexist in sports. Don’t miss out on these valuable insights!

Come hang out with Julia on social @‌allainmentalperformance and learn more about working with her!
🎧 Listen to the full episode here

Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Fun and enjoyment in competitive sports with mental performance coach Julia Elaine.
[03:25] Sports background, coaching experiences, and parenting.
[05:52] Youth sports pressure and enjoyment.
[11:24] The importance of fun in sports and life.
[14:06] Finding fun in sports despite challenges and failures.
[19:53] Mental performance coaching for athletes.
[22:56] Teenage brain development and decision-making.
[27:59] Managing emotions in sports and parenting.
[31:09] Parenting and sports mentalities.
Next Steps:

Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Join our FREE live training for sports parents: The Do's and Don'ts of Strengthening Your Athlete's Mental Game! -> REGISTER HERE

What To Say When Your Athlete Is Super Hard On Herself Feb 20, 2024

Show notes

Are you often at a loss for what to say when your young athlete is overly critical of herself? It’s a common challenge faced by sports parents. In this episode, I share practical strategies for sports parents to effectively support and encourage their young athletes.
Here’s what’s covered in this episode:

A member’s inspiring story of her daughter’s triumph in basketball.
Understanding and empathizing with your daughter’s negative emotions.
The impact of our responses, rooted in our own upbringing.
Practical strategies for effective communication with your athlete.
The importance of allowing space for emotional processing.
How quick fixes can inadvertently lower long-term confidence.
Empowering your athlete with mental training skills.
Nurturing an environment for emotional intelligence and resilience.

For more insights on how to support your athlete when she’s hard on herself, listen to the full episode. You’ll gain a deeper understanding and more tools to help your young athlete thrive. Don’t miss out on this valuable conversation – tune in now!
🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Buzzsprout

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Helping athletes overcome self-criticism and build confidence. Learn more about the challenge of athletes being overly critical of themselves and how sports moms can help them navigate this experience.
[02:09] Helping athletes cope with negative emotions. Discover how parents’ own experiences with processing negative emotions may influence how they respond to their child’s emotions, and that this can lead to unintentionally reinforcing negative patterns.
[04:28] Supporting children’s emotional well-being. Learn more about the importance of allowing your daughter to process her emotions.
[09:13] Helping athletes process emotions after disappointment. The importance of recognizing and validating an athlete’s emotions, rather than dismissing or minimizing them.
[11:18] Supporting athletes through mental challenges. Strategies for athletes to communicate with their parents, as well as tips for moms of young athletes to help them navigate their daughter’s emotional struggles during athletic events.

Next Steps:

Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Join our FREE live training for sports parents: The Do's and Don'ts of Strengthening Your Athlete's Mental Game! -> REGISTER HERE

Pre-Game Pep Talks That Actually Work To Help Your Athlete Daughter's Confidence Feb 06, 2024

Show notes

Are you wondering how to make your pre-game pep talks more effective for your athlete daughter? In this episode, I talk about pre-game conversations and how they can significantly impact your daughter’s performance and confidence.
Here’s what’s covered in this episode:

The Impact of Pre-Game Emotions. Understanding the mix of nerves, excitement, and anxiety your athlete might feel before competition.
The Role of Parents in Pre-Game. Insights into how parents can create a positive and supportive environment.
Avoiding Common Pep Talk Mistakes. Why it’s crucial to avoid overloading your athlete with reminders and technical instructions.
The Importance of Routine and Consistency. How establishing a pre-game routine can help your daughter stay focused and calm.
Managing Parental Stress. Tips for parents to manage their own anxieties and avoid projecting them onto their athlete.
Athlete Feedback on Pre-Game Support. Real examples from athletes on what type of support works best for them before a game.

For more insights and tips on supporting your athlete daughter, make sure to listen to the full episode!
🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Buzzsprout
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Pregame pep talks for girl athletes. Discover tips for pre-game pep talks to help athletes play confidently without adding pressure.
[01:53] Pre-game pep talks and managing athlete’s emotions. Athletes may feel overwhelmed and dysregulated before competition and provides tips for creating a consistent routine to help them focus on what’s in their control.
[05:47] Mental preparation for athletes before and during competition. Athletes also reflect on what they need for support before, during, and after competitions, including focus on being their best self.
[07:31] Athlete motivation and pre-game routines. Discover the importance of focusing on what’s in an athlete’s control, such as their mindset and behavior, rather than external factors like the competition or opponents.
[10:57] Pre-game routines for athletes and parents. Parents and athletes can create consistent routines, such as pre-game rituals or handshakes, to provide comfort and consistency, eliminating arguments and bickering before games.
Next Steps:

Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Join our FREE live training for sports parents: The Do's and Don'ts of Strengthening Your Athlete's Mental Game! -> REGISTER HERE

3X State Champs - Coach Bre & Senior Captains Expose the Mental Training that Led to 3 Consecutive State Championships Feb 01, 2024

Show notes

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a state champion in volleyball? Discover the secrets behind the remarkable success of the Columbia River High School volleyball team, led by Coach Bre.
Here’s what’s covered in this episode:

A look into the remarkable achievement of winning the state championship three times in a row.
Understanding the importance of leadership and experience from the senior captains.
Insights from the captains on leading the team and their unique journeys.
An in-depth discussion on how mental training played a crucial role in the team’s success.
Captains share personal challenges they faced and overcame during their journey.
The significance of team bonding activities and their impact on team performance.
Captains share valuable lessons and advice for aspiring athletes.

Curious to hear more about this incredible journey to victory? Tune in to the full podcast for an inspiring glimpse into the world of competitive volleyball and the power of mental training.
🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Buzzsprout
Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Mental training for high school volleyball athletes. Interviewing three senior volleyball captains that played for Coach Bre about their experience winning three consecutive state championships.
[03:41] Volleyball, leadership, and future plans.
[08:39] Teamwork, mental training, and handling pressure in high school sports. Setting milestones and having a clear vision was important for the team’s success this year. Mental training, teamwork, and confidence in each other were key factors in their championship win.
[15:45] Team chemistry, mental training, and success in volleyball. Team chemistry and love for volleyball were key factors in their success, allowing them to bounce back from ruts and stay motivated even when down by a few points. Players reflect on the impact of mental training and team dynamics on their performance.
[19:35] Mental training for volleyball players. Macy and Lauren credit my mental training program for improving their volleyball skills and mental health, with Macy noting that it helped her reset her mindset and Lauren feeling more confident and less pressured on the court. Logan also credits my training for changing her game, noting that it helped her feel more prepared and confident, and that she’s a better player and teammate as a result.
[23:58] Mental strategies for improving performance in a competitive game. Using “snapback routine” and “reset word” to regain focus during games.
[28:33] Overcoming personal challenges in a sports team leadership role. Each captain faced personal challenges. Macy struggled with self-confidence, being the full-time setter for the first time. Lauren grappled with the pressure of living up to past successes. Logan had to overcome performance anxiety and self-doubt. Their ability to overcome these obstacles was pivotal in their success.
[32:11] High school volleyball season, memories, and leadership. Stepping into different leadership roles this season, focusing on unity and connecting with teammates to build confidence.
[40:35] Mental training for athletes. Mental training can help athletes improve their confidence and overall performance, even if they are already skilled in their sport.
[41:57] Mental training for volleyball players. Mental training helps athletes perform better under pressure and enjoy the sport more. Mental training is essential for enhancing physical performance and building confidence.
Next Steps:

The Elite Mental Game is open for Winter Special Enrollment! Join before February 2nd for a $400 discount plus exclusive bonuses! Join here

Thank you in advance for joining us on our miss

Behind The Scenes of The Elite Mental Game & How It's Changing The Game for Athletes (and Parents!) Jan 30, 2024

Show notes

Wondering how mental training can revolutionize your athlete’s performance? Join me in this episode as I go behind the scenes of the Elite Mental Game (EMG) program – a program designed for both athletes and their parents.
What’s Covered in the Episode:

An introduction to the Elite Mental Game program and its unique approach to mental training.
A heartfelt story from a community member, Shelly, highlighting the program’s impact on her daughter’s confidence and assertiveness.
Insight into the EMG program’s structure, both from the athlete’s and parent’s side.
An exploration of how EMG helps build foundational mental skills, enhances high-performance strategies, and equips athletes with a mental edge toolkit.
A detailed look at how EMG involves and benefits parents, teaching them to support their athlete children effectively.
Answers to common questions about the ideal age for starting EMG, the best times for mental training, and tips for engaging athletes in the program.

To hear the full story and gain a deeper understanding of how EMG is transforming the mental game for athletes and parents, tune in to the complete podcast episode!
🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Buzzsprout
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Mental training program for athletes and parents. I share my insights on my signature mental training program, the Elite Mental Game, and its unique features for athletes and parents.
[01:17] Developing athletes’ mental toughness and parental support.
[06:18] Mental training program for athletes and parents. The EMG program works by providing both athletes and parents with science-backed mental training skills and research-based strategies for supporting each other, leading to increased confidence and peak performance.
[09:52] Mental training for athletes. Learn more about the four phases that athletes go through in the EMG program.
[15:59] Mental training program for athletes. Athletes in the Elite Mental Game program receive 12 weeks of live support, including weekly check-ins with coaches and access to a training portal with mental training tips and support. Bonuses include workshops from former sports nurse and neuroscientist, as well as Olympic medalists.
[18:42] Sports parenting training program. Learn more about the four phases that parents go through in the EMG program.
[22:33] Mental training for young female athletes – commonly asked questions.
Next Steps:

Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Join our FREE live training for sports parents: The Do's and Don'ts of Strengthening Your Athlete's Mental Game! -> REGISTER HERE

3 Signs Your Athlete is Ready for Mental Training (& The Best Time To Start) Jan 23, 2024

Show notes

Are you wondering if your young athlete is ready for mental training? In this episode, I discuss how to recognize the readiness for mental training in athletes – and when the right time to start is.
What’s Covered:

Defining mental training and its importance in sports.
3 Signs Your Athlete Is Ready for Mental Training
Comparing the benefits of in-season vs. out-of-season mental training.
Effective ways to introduce mental training to your athlete.
How to use resources like conversation guides and podcasts for better engagement.
Clarifying the concept of ‘elite performance’ in young athletes.
The necessity of mental training for older athletes (16+).

Don’t miss out on these vital insights that could be a game-changer for your young athlete’s sports journey. Tune in to the full podcast episode to learn more about preparing your athlete for the mental challenges of sports. Listen now!
🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Buzzsprout
Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Mental training for athletes and when to start. Discover the importance of mental training for athletes and when to start, addressing concerns of parents who may not know if their athlete is ready.
[02:04] Mental training for athletes. The importance of mental training for athletes; recognizing that 90% of their sport is mental.
[06:03] Mental training for athletes aged 11-16. Between 11-16 years old, athletes are cognitively ready for a more formal mental training program like the Elite Mental Game, and can apply concepts to their sport.
[13:53] Mental training for young athletes. In-season and off-season mental training considerations. Tips for getting buy-in from athletes and their parents for mental training programs.
Next Steps:

Looking for an easy way to introduce mental training to your athlete? Here’s a free conversation guide to help!
The Elite Mental Game is open for our Winter
Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Join our FREE live training for sports parents: The Do's and Don'ts of Strengthening Your Athlete's Mental Game! -> REGISTER HERE

Training the Mental Game When Coaches Don't Teach It. How This Competitive Figure Skater is Doing It! Jan 16, 2024

Show notes

Wondering how a competitive figure skater excels in her sport’s mental game? Dive into this episode to discover her inspiring journey!
What’s Covered:

The story of Whitney, a 15-year-old figure skater, and her mom Darcy’s approach to mental training.
Strategies for overcoming mistakes and maintaining focus.
The impact of mental training on performance, confidence, and handling pressure.
Personal insights and experiences from Whitney and Darcy’s journey in the Elite Mental Game program.

Don’t miss the full story of resilience, mental strength, and competitive success. Listen to the full podcast episode now to learn how Whitney transformed challenges into triumphs and how you can apply these lessons to your athlete’s journey!
🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Buzzsprout
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Mental training for elite figure skater Whitney with her mom Darcy. A conversation with Whitney, a 15-year-old competitive figure skater, and her mom Darcy about mental training and its importance in athletics.
[02:35] Parenting, sports, and pursuing dreams. Darcy shares her family’s journey, including their experiences living in four foreign countries and teaching her daughters to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.
[07:22] Figure skating goals and mental preparation. Whitney and Darcy talk about Whitney’s journey in figure skating and how Darcy is proud of Whitney’s dedication and hard work, but also acknowledges the need to support her goals through mental preparation and making the move to the next level.
[12:50] Mental training for figure skating. Whitney shares how she struggled with mental preparation for figure skating competitions, leading to inconsistent performance.
[19:14] Skating performance and visualization techniques. Whitney uses visualization techniques to distract herself during competitions and increase her confidence, resulting in improved performance.
[24:23] Mental training and perfectionism in figure skating. Tips for Whitney’s perfectionist tendencies and how to deal with them, acknowledging the unique challenges of being a perfectionist athlete at an elite level.
[29:58] The role of a coach in a figure skater’s life. Recognizing the importance of creating an environment for skater’s creativity and mental well-being during competitions.
[34:25] Learning to manage emotions and build confidence in figure skating. Learning to manage emotions and build confidence through the program, helping to change mindset and improve competence.
[38:35] Mental skills training for figure skating. Reflecting on the value of a figure skating program, and the skills and techniques that can help athletes handle competition with confidence and preparation.
Next Steps:

Join our FREE LIVE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Join our FREE live training for sports parents: The Do's and Don'ts of Strengthening Your Athlete's Mental Game! -> REGISTER HERE

The #1 Way to Help Your Athlete Increase Her Game Day Confidence Jan 09, 2024

Show notes

Ever wondered how you can truly boost your athlete’s confidence and help them perform at their best? In this episode, we dive into the number one way to enhance your athlete’s game day confidence.
In this episode, we cover:

Signs of game day confidence and how to recognize them.
The crucial role parents play in supporting their athletes throughout their journey.
Four essential phases of your athlete’s athletic experience and how your words impact each.
Practical tips and the LOVE framework for post-competition reflection.
The incredible impact of a supportive parent on an athlete’s confidence and performance.

Tune in to the full podcast to discover how you can be the ultimate source of confidence and support for your young athlete!
🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Buzzsprout
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Increasing Game Day confidence in athletes. Discover the importance of mental training for girl athletes, emphasizing the number one way to increase Game Day confidence: equipping athletes with the skills to handle challenges and setbacks with confidence and resilience.
[02:25] Boosting athletes’ confidence through supportive parenting. Learn more about the importance of supporting athletes in four phases: day-to-day, pre-competition, during competition, and post-competition.
[06:56] How changing one’s approach can influence confidence in sports and life. Changing how you interact with your child can change their behavior and confidence.
[08:27] Building athletes’ confidence through parenting. Recognizing and valuing an athlete’s innate qualities and positive traits outside of their sport. Discover tips for identifying and emphasizing these qualities and using them to build confidence and influence their sport performance.
[12:39] Supporting athletes pre, during, and post competition. Tips for moms of middle school athletes on how to support their daughters during pre-competition, during competition, and post-competition phases.
Next Steps:

Join our Middle School Sports Mom Challenge happening January 16-19th! A 4 day challenge to learn exactly what to say to build game-day confidence in your athlete daughter. Register here.
Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Join our FREE live training for sports parents: The Do's and Don'ts of Strengthening Your Athlete's Mental Game! -> REGISTER HERE

How to Talk So Your Teen Athlete Listens With Parent Coach Jeanine Mouchawar Jan 02, 2024

Show notes

Are you finding it challenging to communicate effectively with your teen athlete, especially after a tough game? In this insightful episode, we explore effective strategies to enhance parent-teen communication, featuring insights from Janine Mawchawer, an experienced life coach for parents of teenagers.
What’s Covered in the Episode:

Understanding Your Teen’s Mindset
Effective Communication Strategies
The Power of the Snapback Routine

Don’t miss out on these valuable insights that can transform your relationship with your teen athlete! Listen to the full podcast now for a deeper dive into effective communication strategies that can make a real difference.
🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Buzzsprout
Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Supporting teens through sports disappointments. Jeanine Mawchawer provides tangible tips for parents to support their teen athletes after a bad performance without being overly critical.
[04:02] Parenting teenagers and overcoming challenges. Jeanine shares her personal struggles with connecting with her middle child and how she used a parenting program and life coaching principles to improve their relationship.
[08:26] How to help children cope with disappointment and negative self-talk. Jeanine describes a common issue in sports parenting where children are overly critical of themselves after a bad performance, leading to tense conversations with parents.
[16:41] Parenting and emotional triggers. Moms often unconsciously offer advice when their child is feeling down, but this can worsen the situation.
[21:39] Managing emotions in parenting and sports. Learn more about the importance of stating observations clearly and simply to facilitate productive conversations with team members.
[26:12] Effective communication with teenagers. Jeanine provides tips for effective communication during difficult conversations: Be aware of personal feelings, restate facts, ask curious questions, and validate emotions.
Next Steps:

Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Join our FREE live training for sports parents: The Do's and Don'ts of Strengthening Your Athlete's Mental Game! -> REGISTER HERE

Athlete Tip: How to Come Back From Mistakes Faster Dec 28, 2023

Show notes

Ever wonder how top athletes quickly get over mistakes? It’s not all about physical skill – their mental game is key too. This episode dives into simple yet powerful techniques like the snapback routine, helping athletes stay focused and bounce back fast.
In This Episode:

Explore why accepting mistakes is key to resilience in sports.
Uncover the secret of the snapback routine for quick mistake recovery.
Discover the power of a “reset word” in refocusing an athlete’s mindset.
Learn about incorporating a physical reset signal for mental clarity.
Hear success stories of athletes who’ve mastered quick recovery techniques.

Want to elevate your game with these insights? Tune in to the full podcast episode!
Listen to the full episode here: [insert podcast link]
Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Tips to overcome mistakes faster in sports.
[01:14] Overcoming mistakes in sports performance. Learn to accept mistakes as part of the game and focus on your response.
[02:12] How athletes handle mistakes in sports. The importance of having a routine to overcome mistakes in sports.
[03:44] Mental preparation techniques for athletes.
[04:56] Mental strategies for athletes to overcome mistakes. Tips for athletes to overcome mistakes in sports, including practicing a “snapback routine” and using a “reset word.”
Next Steps:

Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

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