Max Out Mindset

Dr. Larry Widman hosts the Max Out Mindset Podcast with special guest Coach Steven Gream, head coach of Cowley College Volleyball—a junior college powerhouse with a staggering 307–46 record, 81 straight wins, and two back-to-back national championships. Coach Gream shares how sustained excellence is built from the inside out. He reveals why mindset matters most, suggesting a 3:1 mental-to-physical ratio in performance, and reflects on how COVID-19 reshaped his approach to coaching. From his roots in basketball to building a volleyball dynasty, Gream unpacks his philosophy on team culture, leadership development, and staying composed under pressure. Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht  Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instgram: @scottpapek Twitter: @scottpapek

In today's podcast episode, we welcome back Kristen Kelsay, the Head Volleyball Coach at Michigan State University. With this inspiring new head coach, we dive into mindset, leadership, and team dynamics. She emphasizes the importance of betting on yourself, taking calculated risks, and making decisions based on personal values. Building psychological safety and trust within a team is crucial. Athletes need to feel safe to fail and learn; trust is built through small actions but can be lost quickly. Resilience through adversity is highlighted, with past struggles and embracing challenges seen as growth opportunities. Kristen encourages courageous conflict and exemplifies transformational leadership, focusing on life skills beyond volleyball. Michigan State Volleyball's mission of winning is supported by three pillars: Relationships, Values, and Growth. She trains confidence through consistent effort and embracing the learning process, offering valuable lessons and practical advice for athletes, coaches, and anyone looking to improve their mindset and leadership skills.   Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht  Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

On this episode of the Max Out Mindset Podcast, we welcome back Trish Siedlik, head coach of Bellevue University Volleyball, for an in-depth conversation about the journey to sustained success. Trish has built an incredible program, leading her team to multiple national tournament appearances and a recent national championship runner-up finish. With over 20 years of coaching experience, she has learned that success isn't just about talent—it's about culture, leadership, and the ability to evolve. We dive into the evolution of her coaching mindset, from trusting her players and staff to building a culture centered on positive intent. Trish shares how she has adapted to the changing landscape of coaching, the importance of showing love and belief in her players, and the role that ownership and leadership development played in Bellevue's historic run. We also discuss: ✅ How championship teams are built from the inside out ✅ Why trust and alignment between coaches and players are critical ✅ The impact of positive intent on team culture and performance ✅ What Trish learned from the highest of highs and lowest of lows this season ✅ How mindset played a key role in the team's ability to stay resilient and max out when it mattered most This episode is packed with wisdom for coaches, athletes, and leaders looking to develop a winning mindset. Tune in to learn how elite teams are made—and how they sustain success even through challenges.

We welcome Jordy Bahl back for a second podcast episode, where she dives deeper into her incredible journey. Jordy shares her experiences transitioning from Oklahoma to Nebraska after an ACL injury and reflects on the evolving concept of "maxing out." She opens up about her struggles with perfectionism, adopting a "good enough" mindset, and embracing vulnerability to foster team unity. Jordy shares her strategies for overcoming challenges, such as leaning on spirituality, maintaining perspective, and using visualization to bolster confidence. Jordy also explores the importance of role acceptance and team unity, noting how players' attitudes—on and off the field—affect team success. As a leader, she stresses the importance of consistency, open communication, and balancing accountability with compassion. Don't miss Jordy's inspiring advice to her future self as she continues her fearless pursuit of excellence.   Max Out Mindset for Softball Book Max out Mindset services here. Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht  Instagram:@scottpapek Twitter: @scottpapek  

Welcome to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. This is your host, Dr. Larry Widman, and my co-host, Coach Jess Knecht. Our guest today is someone who knows all about performing under pressure and achieving greatness. She has had an extraordinary athletic and coaching career. Her journey started as a standout athlete at Georgia Tech University, where she played on the right side and helped her team reach the Elite Eight in 2003. Her coaching career has been equally impressive, with stops at Appalachian State, the University of Miami, and the University of Kansas. As an assistant coach at Kansas, she played a key role in leading the program to its first-ever Final Four appearance. From there, she became the head coach at Texas A&M, where she guided the team to a Sweet 16 appearance. Most recently, she stepped into the professional volleyball world as an assistant coach for the Omaha Supernovas in the Pro Volleyball Federation. She quickly rose to the position of interim head coach and led the team to an incredible inaugural season, culminating in a national championship. That championship was particularly special, as it marked the first professional volleyball league national championship in America. She embodies everything it means to max out with an overall coaching record of 444-172. Bird emphasizes the foundational role of relationships, mental toughness, and authenticity in her coaching approach. She candidly shares the challenges she faced, particularly in navigating role acceptance within a professional league and the importance of strong administrative support. Reflecting on her decision to return for a second season, she highlights the value of relationships and the competitive chemistry within her team as driving factors. Please welcome Coach Laura "Bird" Kuhn to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. We are so excited to have you here to share your journey and insights. Let's dive in! Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht  Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Welcome to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. This is your host, Dr. Larry Widman, and my co-host, Coach Jess Knecht. Our guest today is someone who knows all about performing under pressure and achieving greatness. She has had an extraordinary athletic and coaching career. Her journey started as a standout athlete at Georgia Tech University, where she played on the right side and helped her team reach the Elite Eight in 2003. Her coaching career has been equally impressive, with stops at Appalachian State, the University of Miami, and the University of Kansas. As an assistant coach at Kansas, she played a key role in leading the program to its first-ever Final Four appearance. From there, she became the head coach at Texas A&M, where she guided the team to a Sweet 16 appearance. Most recently, she stepped into the professional volleyball world as an assistant coach for the Omaha Supernovas in the Pro Volleyball Federation. She quickly rose to the position of interim head coach and led the team to an incredible inaugural season, culminating in a national championship. That championship was particularly special, as it marked the first professional volleyball league national championship in America. She embodies everything it means to max out with an overall coaching record of 444-172. Bird emphasizes the foundational role of relationships, mental toughness, and authenticity in her coaching approach. She candidly shares the challenges she faced, particularly in navigating role acceptance within a professional league and the importance of strong administrative support. Reflecting on her decision to return for a second season, she highlights the value of relationships and the competitive chemistry within her team as driving factors. Please welcome Coach Laura "Bird" Kuhn to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. We are so excited to have you here to share your journey and insights. Let's dive in! Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht  Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

In this episode of the Max Out Mindset podcast, we explore the remarkable journey of Steven Ashworth, basketball player at Creighton University. Steven shares his experiences of overcoming challenges, from being doubted and undersized to becoming a key player through relentless work ethic and mental toughness. He reflects on his personal definition of "maxing out," which means surpassing expectations with the support of teammates, coaches, and for some, sports psychologists. Steven emphasizes the importance of trust, communication, and being present both on the court and in life. He also offers insights into his strategies for overcoming fear and comparison, while highlighting the pivotal role of Coach Mac in building player confidence and fostering team dynamics. Visit maxoutmindset.com for our 1:1 Elite Mindset coaching and team services. AAU, Club, High School, and College Basketball Teams: Click here to learn more about our services.    Follow Doc: Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instagram: @max_out_mindset  Follow Scott: Instagram: @scottpapek Twitter: @scottpapek

Today's guest is an accomplished athlete from Elkhart, Indiana, a two-time state champion at Penn High School and an All-American at Purdue University. She was named the 2019 Best Opposite at the FIVB World Cup and USA Volleyball Player of the Year, having been a member of the national team since 2017. A key player on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic team that won the first-ever gold medal for U.S. Volleyball, she came off the bench as a game-changer before starting the final games, leading the team with 97 points and 88 kills. In 2024, she followed up with a silver medal at the Paris Olympics and broke the all-time points record for a U.S. volleyball player, surpassing the previous record set by Destiny Hooker. Most of our listeners will truly appreciate Annie Drews's willingness to explore the role that mindset training can play in elevating performance at this point in her career. Please welcome Annie Drews to the Max Out Mindset podcast. Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht  Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

We are thrilled to have a special guest on today's episode: Brooke Nuneviller, a powerhouse in the world of volleyball. Brooke spent five remarkable years at the University of Oregon, where she made her mark as a four-time All-Pac-12 selection and a three-time AVCA All-American. She's the first and only athlete in Pac-12 history to achieve over 1,500 kills and 2,000 digs in a career, a testament to her unmatched skill and dedication. Brooke has also been a vital member of the US Women's National Team, playing a key role in securing the gold medal at the 2023 NORCECA Pan American Cup Final. Her professional career has taken her across the globe, from competing in Turkey to making her mark in Athletes Unlimited. Most recently, Brooke captained the Omaha Supernovas to victory in the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation National Championship. In this episode, Brooke shares her journey, the mindset required to excel under pressure, and the lessons learned from competing at the highest levels of the sport. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or sports enthusiast, Brooke's insights into reaching the limits of your capabilities, especially when it matters most, will inspire and motivate you. Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht  Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Today, we are thrilled to welcome Sydney Hilley to the Max Out Mindset podcast. Sydney was a four-time captain at the University of Wisconsin, showcasing her leadership and commitment. She was named Big 10 Setter of the Year three times, and for those Nebraska fans out there, you'll remember her stellar performance in the five-set victory that secured Wisconsin the 2021 National Championship. Sydney's collegiate career boasts 6,138 assists, with a remarkable 78 assists in a single match! On the national stage, Sydney contributed to the bronze medal win at the Pan-Am Cup and played a pivotal role in securing the gold medal at the 2023 NORCECA Pan-American Final Six. I first met Sydney through the Omaha Supernovas, where she helped lead them to victory in the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation National Championship and was named the MVP of the championship match. Join us as we dive into the journey and mindset of this incredible leader and athlete, Sydney Hilley. Despite not playing much during the last few weeks of the season, when her number was called, she was ready for her moment and delivered when it mattered most. Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Join Kelly Kinney, a top volleyball recruit from West Palm Beach, FL, and a University of Minnesota commit. Kelly's journey of resilience and success is an inspiring story of overcoming adversity that led to her biggest breakthroughs. Her injury focused her determination to work harder, leading to remarkable achievements as a U19 and U21 USA Volleyball National Team member. Kelly shares valuable insights and strategies to help you cultivate a winning mindset to achieve your goals. Rejection, comparison, and struggle are part of the journey to achieve success. Welcome, Kelly, to the podcast! Want to learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess? Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mind_jess and X @JessKnecht.    

From Cave Creek, Arizona, Kam Gibadlo grew up as a multi-sport athlete. She was recently named to the 2024 USA Volleyball U21 National Team roster and just completed her freshman year at the University of Utah. She earned post-season honors as she was named to the 2023 Pac-12 Freshman Team. Past accomplishments include being a member of the 2023 USAV GJNC 18 Open All-American team, where her team finished third in the nation. In this episode, Kam shares her inspiring journey and opens up about how cultivating joy on and off the court has given her a competitive edge. From overcoming self-confidence challenges to celebrating her strengths, Kam's contagious competitive spirit and joy on and off the court will have you rethinking the powerful role of joy in achieving peak performance. This rising star offers an insightful perspective on finding purpose beyond just the sport you play. Want to learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess? Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mind_jess and X @JessKnecht.

Welcome to the Max Out Mindset podcast! In this episode, we're joined by Mia Lind, creator of the trademarked Hot Girl Walk, a four-mile journey focused on gratitude, goal-setting, and self-confidence. Mia shares how this simple walking routine transformed her life, helping her overcome teenage struggles with confidence and comparison on social media. Through regular practice of gratitude and focusing on her achievements during her walks, Mia learned to cultivate confidence from within. This realization profoundly impacted her life, leading to success in job interviews, increased self-assurance, and the ability to disregard others' opinions. Join us as Mia shares the transformative power of the Hot Girl Walk and how this practice can help you build unshakable self-confidence from the inside out. Visit Hot Girl Walk Max out Mindset services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

In this episode of the Max Out Mindset podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Coach Paul Limongi, a highly accomplished football coach with an impressive track record. Although I have only known Coach Limongi for a couple of years, his impact on the athletic world has been significant and long-lasting. Before joining Westside High School, my alma mater, Coach Limongi, spent 16 years at Burke High School in Omaha, Nebraska. During his tenure there, he led his team to one state championship in 2018 and amassed an impressive 106-55 record. Coach Limongi's ability to nurture and develop talent has been instrumental in helping many of his players continue their careers at the collegiate level. Two years ago, Coach Limongi transitioned to Westside High School, where he has continued his success. In his time at Westside, he has led the team to a remarkable 25-1 record and two consecutive state championships. In this episode, we will delve into Coach Limongi's journey, discussing the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from a successful program at Burke to a previously successful culture at Westside, and how he managed to merge the two. Moreover, we will explore the personal adversity Coach Limongi faced when he was diagnosed with a tumor on his tonsils. This earth-shattering news undoubtedly had a profound impact on his life and career. Join us as we explore Coach Paul Limongi's insights, experiences, and the valuable lessons he has learned throughout his coaching career and personal life on the Max Out Mindset podcast. Max out Mindset services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Coach Sheffield is currently one of the most successful coaches in NCAA Women's Volleyball. He won a National Championship in 2021 and boasts a record of 292-61 at the time of this podcast. He has great insights into what it takes to help individual athletes max out as well as the collective team. Coach appears to have a wonderful mix of love and accountability that allows him to have challenging conversations when necessary. He has embraced the role that mindset training, in particular mindfulness, has in overall performance in sport and life. Enjoy listening to one of the elite coaches in the game today! Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Tune in for a special episode featuring Statia and Henry Hendrix, parents of elite volleyball player Evan Hendrix. They'll take us on their journey through the world of elite youth sports, sharing insights on finding the perfect club, fostering an empowering mindset, and nurturing their daughter's athletic potential while prioritizing personal growth and strong values. Get ready to learn about creating a supportive environment, embracing challenges, and finding the right balance between encouragement and over involvement. Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Max Out Mindset for Parents book here Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instagram:@Scottpapek   Contact: Scott@maxoutmindset.com

Today, we have the pleasure of diving into the inspiring journey of Ellie Bolton, who has played at volleyball powerhouses in high school, club and college with roots in the Kansas City area. Ellie's early days were marked by her standout performances with the KC Power Play club and the formidable St. James Academy high school team, clinching back-to-back state championships and numerous individual accolades. However, as we know, the path to success in athletics is not always smooth. Upon joining Creighton University, Ellie began her collegiate career as the starting Libero, making a significant impact from her freshman year onwards. Despite her impressive four-year tenure at Creighton, Ellie's journey wasn't without its challenges. In the competitive world of sports, highs and lows are inevitable, and Ellie's story reflects the realities that athletes face. Now in her fifth year as a graduate transfer at SMU, Ellie has embraced new opportunities and challenges, illustrating the evolving landscape of her athletic career. Join us as we delve into the triumphs, setbacks, and the perseverance that has defined Ellie Bolton's remarkable journey.   Follow Ellie Instagram: @ellie.bolton and on Twitter @elliebolt16 Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind I  

Introducing our latest episode on the Max Out Mindset Podcast with guest athlete, Rebekah Allick, a sophomore middle blocker from the University of Nebraska!  Rebekah shares her journey of resilience and growth after the tough loss in the National Championship to Texas in the 2023 NCAA Volleyball Tournament. Learn how she faced her anxiety head-on and made a promise to be more authentic and invest in her team's relationships. She is a strong advocate for mindset training and strategies, and this episode is worth the listen. Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Welcome to the Max Out Mindset podcast! Today, we have two amazing guests, Hannah and Lauren Camenzind, University of Arkansas softball athletes. These talented twin sisters have achieved incredible success in high school and during their first season in college.  In this episode, we'll dive into their competitive bond and how it fuels their performance on the softball field. They'll share the importance of routines and how they contribute to their success. Plus, we'll learn more about why the power of self-talk builds confidence and the commitment to daily improvement that's necessary to thrive.  Hannah and Lauren will also discuss the value of accountability and how building relationships through vulnerability has been a key factor in their team's success. Get ready to be inspired by their journey and learn valuable insights from these exceptional athletes.  Order Dr. Widman's book Max Out Mindset for Softball: A Guide For Coaches, Athletes, Teams & Parents To Help You Be In The Best Position To Max Out When It Matters The Most.

Amanda is the Head Volleyball Coach at Sandra Day O'Connor High School (AZ), the 2023 6A State Champions. She is also the Club Director at Revolution Volleyball Academy (RVA). She was inducted into ASU's Hall of Fame in 2010 and was an AVCA All-American in 2000. We discussed the team's journey and learned how they leaned into their second scorecard. Amanda shares the importance of mindset training, and that confidence needs to be trained like any physical skill. This episode provides insight for athletes, teams, and coaches at any level! Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

I am so excited to welcome Ana to the Max Out Mindset podcast. She is an elite young woman who is the epitome of what it means to me gritty. I promise you she is a budding superstar in the sports media world, and the biggest reason, besides her innate talent, is that nobody will ever outwork her. We talk about the same mindset skills that she employs, such as visualization and mindfulness, to help her perform at a high level, often under pressure. I absolutely love her mantra, "If you can see it, be it." Her insights will help any high performer understand the mechanics of what it takes to max out when it matters the most! Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here Instagram @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht. Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Diane is the President of Nebraska Pro Volleyball, home of the Omaha Supernovas. She has spent a large part of her life in and around the sport of volleyball. We discuss her journey that has led to this exact moment in time where she can use all of her experiences to help the Pro Volleyball League be a smashing success. It was fun to discuss mindset and the role that it plays in maximizing performance. After listening to the way Diane thinks about organizations, teams, leaders and people, you will know why she is the perfect person to drive success in the inaugural season for the Omaha Supernovas.   Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here   Instagram @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht. Twitter: @Doc_elitemind  

We are very excited to welcome back Coach Booth, Head Coach of Creighton University's volleyball team, to the Max Out Mindset podcast. She was our first guest on the podcast in February 2020. Lots have changed in the world since our last visit, but one thing that hasn't changed is her team's continued ability to put themselves in a position to max out. Her teams since 2014 have posted an impressive record of 156-11 in the Big East Conference and have had an amazing run of nine straight conference championships and eleven straight NCAA tournament appearances. Coach Booth shares many valuable insights on what it takes for a coach to maintain consistency over time and, more specifically, to help her athletes max out in both life and sport. For anyone in the high-performance space, you will love some of the timely lessons about protecting your culture, growing through adversity, and harnessing the power of effective communication. Her vulnerability shines through in her role as a coach, parent, and human being. Order Dr. Widman's book Max Out Mindset for Volleyball at www.maxoutmindset.com A Guide For Coaches, Athletes, Teams & Parents To Help You Be In The Best Position To Max Out When It Matters The Most. 

We welcome Tristan Alvano, a true freshman starting kicker for the University of Nebraska football team, to the Max Out Mindset podcast. You will learn how he trains his mental skills through meditation and visualization. Tristan was a record-breaking kicker for Omaha Westside High School. Alvano set state all-class records for most field goals in a game and in a season, while his 27 career field goals were the most in Class A history. He was honored as a first-team high school All-American as a senior. Alvano made 16 field goals as a senior, the most in a season in the history of Nebraska high school football, regardless of class. In Westside's state championship victory over Gretna, he kicked five field goals, including a 50-yarder and a 45-yard game-winner as time expired. His five field goals were the most in any state playoff game in Nebraska history and tied for the most field goals in any high school game in state history. That performance earned him a full-ride scholarship to the University of Nebraska football team.  After a contested fall camp, he was named the starting kicker for the Huskers. Order Dr. Widman's new book Max Out Mindset for Volleyball or Max Out Mindset for Softball at www.maxoutmindset.com A Guide For Coaches, Athletes, Teams & Parents To Help You Be In The Best Position To Max Out When It Matters The Most.

Welcome Nebraskan and current University of Washington softball pitcher to the Max Out Mindset podcast. She has had tremendous success in high school and that success continued during her first year in college.  It was so fun to hear her story and learn how she leans into a growth mindset to navigate the adjustment to the college softball world. She is a big believer in learning from setbacks and using coaches, teammates and her own mindset strategies to help elevate performance. Like most high performers we get to visit with on the podcast, Ruby struggles at times but she has great awareness of what she struggles with and strategies such as visualization, deep breathing and the use of routines to help her perform at her best. Order Dr. Widman's new book Max Out Mindset for Volleyball or Max Out Mindset for Softball at www.maxoutmindset.com A Guide For Coaches, Athletes, Teams & Parents To Help You Be In The Best Position To Max Out When It Matters The Most.

Coach Kelly brings a wealth of experience from competing on elite teams and has coached at the college (USC), high school, and club levels in AZ/CA. Her philosophy of training a “complete player” stems from these experiences. She uses this knowledge in her coaching to bring out the best version of each player. She also brings wisdom to training the 3rd ingredient of confidence, the coach's role!  As an athlete, Kelly attended USC as an outside hitter, where she was a four-year starter. She competed in various USA volleyball programs, including Olympic Festivals and the 1995 World University Games.  She trained in Japan under Dr. Arie Selinger, who led USA volleyball to a Silver Medal.  After graduation, she played professionally overseas in Brazil and Puerto Rico and ended her career on the AVP Beach Tour, being nominated for Rookie of the Year.  Her favorite part of the sport has always been being on a team and her teammates.  Learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess at www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow her on Instagram @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht.

Welcome Coach Todd Petersen to the Max Out Mindset podcast. As one of the best coaches in the history of Nebraska High School and Club Softball, he shares many nuggets to help other coaches and athletes max out when it matters the most. He has continued a long pattern of success as the head coach of Papillion-Lavista High School softball, and has coached arguably the most talented high school team ever to suit up in Nebraska. Yet, even during those years, he was always making sure that there weren't barriers that would get in the way of his team performing at the highest level. You will learn about his “Be Secretariat” mantra that he brought to those “dynasty” teams, but it is really how he thinks about every team. It's also great to learn from a coach that has been willing to evolve with an emphasis on building relationships better than ever with his athletes and coaching staff. I really enjoyed this conversation.   Order Dr. Widman's new book Max Out Mindset for Volleyball or Max Out Mindset for Softball at www.maxoutmindset.com A Guide For Coaches, Athletes, Teams & Parents To Help You Be In The Best Position To Max Out When It Matters The Most.

The University of Minnesota Associate Head Volleyball Coach, Kristen Kelsay, joins the Max Out Mindset podcast! She shares the wisdom she gained from her seven years of experience as an assistant coach in the Big Ten, including four with Michigan State (2015-18) and three with Northwestern (2019-21). Learn from her experience as a college athlete at Michigan State under former Head Coach, Cathy George, and how it led to jump-starting her coaching journey. Hear insights into her time as a Gopher with Head Coach, Keegan Cook. This episode provides insight into how coaches and athletes can build the second 'C' of the Elite Mindset, confidence. Her own confidence and coaching style draws on her values: being kind, acting with integrity, and always returning to her faith. We dive into learning there is strength in vulnerability and the gift of having a mentor. The gloves are off in this episode!    Learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess at www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow her on Instagram @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht.

One of the GOAT's of college softball, Jordy Bahl, joins Coach Jess and I on the Max Out Mindset podcast. She just won her 2nd National Championship in college softball. She was 5-0 while pitching 24 2/3 innings of shut-out softball in the 2023 College World Series, while being named the MVP of the College World Series, This episode is jam-packed with mindset strategies to help any high performer improve in their craft and life. Jordy is open about some of the challenges she has faced in the past year and discusses her strategies to help overcome those challenges. She makes it very clear-vulnerability is a strength. Jordy is not one to brag about her accomplishments. Still, she has been a part of softball championships in high school, Club, and most recently now with back-to-back championships at the University of Oklahoma. Her honesty and integrity shine through in one of the best podcasts of 2023! Order Dr. Widman's new book Max Out Mindset for Softball: A Guide For Coaches, Athletes, Teams & Parents To Help You Be In The Best Position To Max Out When It Matters The Most

Coach Tonya Johnson; Empowering Women in Volleyball Welcome LSU Women's Head Volleyball Coach Tonya Johnson to the Max Out Mindset podcast. She has been very successful at all levels of her sport, including as a player and coach. She is in her second year as head Volleyball coach at LSU. It will become apparent in this conversation that Coach has a very high level of emotional intelligence. You will learn how she models the behavior that she wants from her team. There are gems and nuggets galore throughout the podcast. Enjoy! Order Dr. Widman's new book Max Out Mindset for Volleyball at www.maxoutmindset.com A Guide For Coaches, Athletes, Teams & Parents To Help You Be In The Best Position To Max Out When It Matters The Most.

Phekran Kong (PK) | Grace & Gratitude Welcome Phekran Kong (PK) from the University of Louisville Volleyball team to the Max Out Mindset Podcast! PK is a 6'3" middle blocker who played a valuable role in her team's historic appearance in the 2022 NCAA Women's Volleyball National Championship. PK shares why grace and gratitude allow her to stay composed during competition. Having a goldfish memory helps her mind not to dwell in the past but to stay present in the moment. She also shares why her teammates and coaches play a significant role in her success on/off the volleyball court! Learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess at www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow her on Instagram @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht.

Please welcome Coach Liskevych, who shares his views on maxing out when it matters the most. He talks about the highs and lows of decades spent coaching and teaching his craft. He has been successful at every level of his sport, including as the head coach of the USWNT. Coach is also the co-founder of the AVCA, so one can fully understand his impact on the world of volleyball. As a co-owner of The Art of Coaching, he has been able to help coaches at all levels of experience be better at their craft as well. Order Dr. Widman's new book Max Out Mindset for Volleyball at www.maxoutmindset.com A Guide For Coaches, Athletes, Teams & Parents To Help You Be In The Best Position To Max Out When It Matters The Most

Coach Ziegler is one of the best ever to coach high school volleyball in the State of Nebraska. She has won State Championships in Track and Field as well as Volleyball. Her team at Lincoln Lutheran recently finished a historical season in which they went undefeated and won back-to-back State Championships. I love her focus on culture and having fun as ingredients that lead to success. There are nuggets galore that Coach shares on what it takes to put a team in the best position to max out in life and sport. Pre-Order Dr. Widman's new book Max Out Mindset for Volleyball at maxoutmindset.com A Guide For Coaches, Athletes, Teams & Parents To Help You Be In The Best Position To Max Out When It Matters The Most

Today we welcome Lindsay Krause to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. Lindsay is a current volleyball student-athlete at the University of Nebraska. She was named to the 2022 Academic All-Big Ten and 2021 Big Ten All-Freshman Team and is an Assistant Coach with Premier Nebraska 16 Gold. Lindsay was a multi-sport athlete in high school and captured four Nebraska Class B State Volleyball Championships! She shares how mindset training provided successful strategies to own her self-talk to play confident on the court She shares insight about the importance of mental health and encourages athletes to utilize their resources if they need help. Listen to how she overcomes perfectionism and failure! Want to learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess? Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht.

Skyler Pierce joins the Max Out Mindset podcast! She is a Husker Volleyball Commit ('28) and the #4 ranked prospect in the Class of 2024 by PrepVolleyball.com. She is also the Metro Sports KC Player of the Year/MVP and a member of USAV's NTDP. She's a fierce multi-sport athlete from Kansas, competing on Dynasty's 17 Black club volleyball team and at Olathe Northwest High School (basketball and volleyball). Her commitment to servant leadership shows in her athletic achievements, academic excellence, and community service. Her humility and focus on the team above herself help this high performer achieve big goals.  Listen to how she handles the pressure of the national stage, and what commitment looks like to be elite. She shares why mindset training is so vital to improving her confidence. Want more information on mindset training? Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mindset_jess and Twitter @JessKnecht.

Grace Heaney | Growth Mentality Today Coach Jess Welcomes Grace Heaney to the Max Out Mindset Podcast! She is a Purdue Volleyball Commit ('27) and is the #14 ranked prospect in the Class of 2023, by PrepVolleyball.com.  As a multi-sport athlete, she has found success on high-level teams in Premier Nebraska 18 Gold and Elkhorn North High School (basketball, track & field, and volleyball). Her commitment to bettering herself for the team demanded she steps up in new ways. Grace is committed to changing her body language/attitude to be the best leader. Mindset training, family, and faith keep her grounded as she navigates the pressure as a high-performing athlete.   Want to learn more about mindset training? Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mindset_jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht.

Former University of Nebraska Omaha libero and Premier Nebraska 16 Gold Assistant Coach, Jaiden Centeno, shares her powerful testimony of how vulnerability and mindset training increased her confidence to max out in the postseason competition. Jaiden shares how much mental health matters. At 16 years old, she suffered a season-ending hip injury that led her to understand the strength it takes to ask for help. Loneliness, not playing the sport she loved, and questioning when she could compete again impacted her mental health. Listen to how she breaks down the mental health stigma surrounding collegiate athletes and learn why she finally bought into mindset training during her senior season! Learn more about Coach Jess and Max Out Mindset! Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht.

Head 16 Gold Coach, Elise Fulcher, from Premier Nebraska Volleyball joins the Max Out Mindset Podcast. She provides valuable insight and experience as a club, high school and former Division 1 volleyball coach! Elise was also a former collegiate athlete who overcame injuries to find her true passion in the sport. Listen as she shares how adversity and intentional mindset training helped her team max out when it mattered most. Consistency in her training and coaching is an important ingredient in her team's success. Learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess? Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht. Watch the Video  

Today we welcome Norah Sis to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. Norah is a current volleyball student-athlete at Creighton University. She was named the 2022 Big East Volleyball Player of the Year, won a Gold Medal at the Pan American Cup with USA Volleyball's U21 Team and was an AVCA Third Team All-American in 2021. Norah was a multi-sport athlete in high school and chose to pursue her volleyball career in college. She shares the value and importance of mindset training when she needs to improve her confidence on the court. Her commitment and confidence helped her stay composed when it mattered most in some of the NCAA's biggest matches.  Fun, faith and being fearless are three traits that best describe her! Grab a pen and a piece of paper because she provides key advice for the prospective/current athlete.  Want to learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess? Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter @JessKnecht.

The Golden State Warriors have a set of Core Values that guides them. They call it the Golden State of Mind. When I think about Lexi Zeiss, those same four values come to mind. You will never meet a more joyful & compassionate student-athlete. But she is a fierce competitor as well. Over the past couple of years, she has learned to be mindful, which allows her to be present and aware of her thoughts, feeling & emotions. She has gone from a relatively unknown on the National stage at the beginning of 2022 to be a member of the USA Gymnastics National Team that took home the Gold at the World Championships in the Fall of 2022! It's an incredible journey to this point in her life, but you find out that Lexi is also an incredible person. I hope you enjoy listening to her passion, joy, and wonderful insights on the Max Out Mindset podcast. Lexi Zeiss 2 x U.S. National Team Member USA Gymnastics Worlds Team – 2022 Pan American Championships All Around Silver Medalist - 2022 If you want to Max Out in business, sport or life, visit Max Out Mindset

It was awesome to bring back Taryn Kloth and Kristen Nuss to talk about their transition to professional beach volleyball and what makes their partnership tick so well. I always say you must have enough talent to compete for championships, but how well you attack the non-technical aspects of your sport often determines if you and your team can max out when it matters the most. One of the few positive events to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic was the unlikely partnership of Taryn and Kristen while playing for the Beach Volleyball program at LSU. Even though they went undefeated while paired together during their last season at LSU, winning AVCA Beach Pair of the year, their rapid ascent to the top professional ranks in their first full year on the AVP Tour in 2022 has surprised many people. I have known Taryn since her days at Creighton University, where she played indoor volleyball, and have had the pleasure to watch her grow as a person and in her sport, so nothing surprises me with her—and if you know Kristen, she is the engine that drives home excellence. I love talking about growth through adversity, so it should not surprise you that my favorite part of our conversation was their performance struggles during 2022. But that laid the foundation for their next growth level, leading them to be named the AVP Beach Team of the year in 2022! This episode is brought to you by the Max Out Mindset Video Series for Volleyball:  7 PowerPoint-driven sessions taught by Dr. Widman covering Preparing your Mind for Battle, Max Out your Mind & Max Out your Team.  Downloadable actionable workbook with over 100 questions, discussion points and suggestions for team exercises. Over 45 videos from some of the best athletes, coaches, teams, and leaders in the world, including Olympic gold medal winners Jordan Larson, Jordan Thompson, Kim Hill, and Justine Wong-Orantes  Numerous lessons from some of the best to coach or play in the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and the NCAA to help validate all the Max Out Mindset principles on how to prepare your mind for battle, max out your mind and max out your team!

Join me in welcoming Coach Rhonda Revelle to the Max Out Mindset podcast. She is one of the most positive coaches I know, and it was an honor to discuss her career, both the highs and the lows. Her deliberate focus on gratitude and appreciation is reflected in her career as a Hall of Fame coach with a resume of success over several decades. My favorite part of the conversation was discussing the challenges and then the growth that surfaced during the adversity over the past couple of years. I loved hearing about her feelings for the most recent team that finished their season in the Spring of 2022. There was genuine love and appreciation for the team and many of the parents/athletes that stood by her during some of her darkest times. It was not surprising to me the vulnerability that Coach Revelle demonstrated during our conversation. Her wisdom will help many navigate the challenges of being a high performer, whether in life or sport.

Welcome Coach Brock, LSU's head beach volleyball coach to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. Coach Brock's 2021-22 team word for the year was Intentional. Part of their success was finding ways to be intentional in all aspects of their lives, which translated to on-court performance. When I think of Coach Brock and why he has been able to be successful in his life and, in particular, in the building of one of the great beach volleyball programs, it is because of his commitment to being intentional as well. You will love many of his insights and there are nuggets galore for anybody who is a high performer trying to get their team or themselves to max out when it matters the most. Buy Max Out Book here Work with Dr. Widman here Follow Dr. Widman @doc_elitemind

 Shannon Smolinski, Director of Premier Performance: Training Female Volleyball Athletes to Max Out in Sport and Life Today we welcome Shannon to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. We talk all things volleyball with a focus on the teachings and philosophy of Premier Volleyball Nebraska. It becomes clear that Shannon's mission is in complete alignment with Premier regarding how to help grow young women to max out in sport and life. We certainly spend time talking about the role that mindset training plays in overall performance. We talk about the growth of Club volleyball in general and the incredible growth that has taken place at Premier. Her joy and passion for volleyball and for teaching young women shines throughout our conversation. Enjoy! Work with Dr. Widman; go here Follow Dr. Widman on Twitter @doc_elitemind  

Please welcome Jordan Thompson to the Max Out Mindset podcast. This is as good of a conversation as I've ever had due to her willingness to share her story in an honest and vulnerable way. She discusses her struggles with imposter syndrome, maintaining composure and her self-talk. She also has wonderful strategies to deal with all of these issues so that she can max out when it matters the most. Her journey is full of making history in her sport, both at the NCAA and Olympic level. She has also had her share of ups and downs that also played out during the Olympic games of 2021, resulted in the first gold medal for volleyball in US history. I was so impressed with Jordan as an athlete and person! Enjoy! Work with Dr. Widman; go here Follow Dr. Widman on Twitter @doc_elitemind

In 2019, entering her 14th season as the Head Coach of Bellevue University Volleyball, she wanted to do things better than ever. She was already a highly successful coach by many measures, but she wanted to be able to give more to her team. Her plan included evolving herself as a coach to model the behaviors that she wanted the team to display and build better connections with them. She also wanted to give them more mindset tools to help them stay confident and composed in the biggest moments. It's always fun to watch this process occur with the normal fits and starts but eventually lead to something really wonderful over time. She shared some incredible insights and was willing to share some of her vulnerabilities on this podcast. In 2021, her team advanced to the NAIA National Tournament quarterfinals for the first time since 2000. There is no question in my mind that her willingness to evolve was part of the equation as to why her team was able to put themselves in the best position to max out when it mattered the most. Enjoy!   Buy Max Out Book here Work with Dr. Widman here Follow Dr. Widman @doc_elitemind

Coach David Hunt has been a force in the volleyball world at virtually every level. He has worked at the highest levels in both Men's and Women's volleyball, including in the Olympics and the international world. On the podcast, he articulates his journey, vision, and gratitude for his mentors so well. His growth mindset and willingness to become vulnerable as a coach shine throughout. He has just transitioned back to the women's game as the Associate Head Coach for the University of Texas. It was very enjoyable to learn from him, and I look forward to watching him continue to shine. Oh, by the way, he is Jordan Larson's husband. (that's a joke from the podcast!) Max Out Mindset book and services here

Jess Knecht is a former multi-sport athlete who currently coaches high school and club volleyball. Her coaching style reflects a huge emphasis on mindset training. She has made a tremendous impact over the past few years in her coaching/mentoring role with individual high-performing athletes. She shares many wonderful insights and nuggets about how to develop and train the whole person. Her take on perfectionism is one of many I loved. We are also so excited that she is bringing her talent, passion, personality, and energy to the Max Out Mindset team.  Click here to learn more 

Damon is known for many different things during his lifetime. National Championship Husker athlete, award-winning sports radio co-host, high school football coach, husband, father, and son. But life hasn't always been easy for him, which makes his story and his insights so compelling. I have always loved listening to him because of his intellectual curiosity and thoughtfulness about many challenging issues facing human beings. His willingness to be vulnerable in this setting and share his struggles and successes pleasantly surprised me. In the end, I love people who have a growth mindset and are willing to evolve. Ultimately, this stood out to me during our conversation on the Max Out Mindset podcast. Enjoy! Buy Max Out Book here Work with Dr. Widman here

Coach Tarman is a former Division I volleyball player at Kansas State who has been a head coach for Papillion La-Vista South high school for the past three seasons. The title of one of Meatloaf's songs fits her head coaching journey fairly well-Two Out of Three Ain't Bad! We discuss her journey as a former player, including one of her regrets. We discuss the last three seasons that have included two State Championships and how she trains them to max out when it matters the most. Her 2021 team went undefeated, and the success of that team will certainly stand the test of time and go down as one of the best in Nebraska's high school history. You will love her insights and the wonderful nuggets she shares to help high performers max out in life and sport.

Today on the Max Out Mindset podcast, I have a husband-and-wife team. Their four years of coaching at Concordia University Volleyball have taken this team to heights never reached, including a couple of Elite Eight finishes the past two years in the NAIA National Tournament. They do a wonderful job of staying process-focused. They do an equally great job of staying true to the Core Values for the team. These have helped them this year, more than ever, stay focused on improvement rather than the win-loss record. It paid off in the 2nd half of the fall 2021 season, culminating in a tremendous run in the GPAC Conference Tournament, followed by a deep run in the National Tournament. I always say that one of the key ingredients of great teams is to have complementary roles and crush these roles. The Boldt's do just that for their “coaching team,” with the beneficiary being Concordia Volleyball.