Mental Dive

In this episode, Taylor Staden is joined by Kyle Gordon — PGA of Canada Class A Professional and Director of Instruction at Golf Town. With over 7,000 golf lessons taught and 600+ players fitted, Kyle brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for the game.Together, they explore:Kyle's journey from hockey and baseball to golf instructionChallenges he faced on the way to earning his PGA of Canada cardHow confidence and mindset impact performancePractical strategies to transfer your range game to the courseThe value of deliberate practice, on-course lessons, and managing pressureWhether you're a casual golfer or competitive player, this episode is full of relatable stories and actionable insights to help you play better and think sharper.

In today's episode, Taylor is joined by Stewart Bannatyne. Stewart is. PGA of Canada Golf Professional, renowed club fitter and the founder of the Virtual Golf Club Inc. in Burlington, Ontario.Today we dive into how having the appropriate clubs for you can impact your confidence, enjoyment of the game and overall performance.Click here to learn more about The Virtual Golf Club Inc.

Using breakwork to improve your game can have massive benefits. Today Johnny shares some insights, perspectives, and practical ways for hockey players and athletes alike to start harnessing the power of their breath so that they can take their game to the next level. Be sure to check out everything Johnny has going on at: www.atunya.com, @johnnyoduya, @hale.center, @atunyaperformance, @atunya_academy Are you interested interested in learning more about how you could possibly take your game to the next level? Then take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment or book in a no-obligation call: ⁠⁠Click here to take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Click Here to Book in a No-Obligation Call⁠⁠ Check out our website and social media handles to get more value: Website: ⁠⁠uppermentality.ca⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠Upper Mentality⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠@uppermentality⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden

Being able to focus on what you can control can be a huge separator for those going into their junior hockey camps. OHL, OJHL, USHL, NAHL, NCDC.. You name it! Be sure to check out Darcy and One Gear Hockey at: www.onegearhockey.com Socials: @onegearhockey Are you interested interested in learning more about how you could possibly take your game to the next level? Then take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment or book in a no-obligation call: ⁠⁠Click here to take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Click Here to Book in a No-Obligation Call⁠⁠ Check out our website and social media handles to get more value: Website: ⁠⁠uppermentality.ca⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠Upper Mentality⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠@uppermentality⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden

Are you interested interested in learning more about how you could possibly take your game to the next level? Then take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment or book in a no-obligation call: ⁠⁠Click here to take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Click Here to Book in a No-Obligation Call⁠⁠ Check out our website and social media handles to get more value: Website: ⁠⁠uppermentality.ca⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠Upper Mentality⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠@uppermentality⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden

Focusing more on what you can control versus what you can't control can be a great place to begin to work on your mental toughness. Are you interested interested in learning more about how you could possibly take your game to the next level? Then take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment or book in a no-obligation call: ⁠⁠Click here to take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Click Here to Book in a No-Obligation Call⁠⁠ Check out our website and social media handles to get more value: Website: ⁠⁠uppermentality.ca⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠Upper Mentality⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠@uppermentality⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden

Anyone can try to do something when they feel like it. But greatness comes from taking action and showing up when you don't feel like it. Are you interested interested in learning more about how you could possibly take your game to the next level? Then take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment or book in a no-obligation call: ⁠⁠Click here to take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Click Here to Book in a No-Obligation Call⁠⁠ Check out our website and social media handles to get more value: Website: ⁠⁠uppermentality.ca⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠Upper Mentality⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠@uppermentality⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden

When the energy is low and your team seems to have given up, go against the grain and lead by example. Give your best effort, do the little things, help bring them up.. Anything! The game isn't over until the game is.. well.. over! Are you interested interested in learning more about how you could possibly take your game to the next level? Then take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment or book in a no-obligation call: ⁠⁠Click here to take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Click Here to Book in a No-Obligation Call⁠⁠ Check out our website and social media handles to get more value: Website: ⁠⁠uppermentality.ca⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠Upper Mentality⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠@uppermentality⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠@taylorstaden⁠⁠

Working hard is one of the few areas of our performance that we have control over. Focus on giving your best effort, and good things tend to follow. Are you interested interested in learning more about how you could possibly take your game to the next level? Then take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment or book in a no-obligation call: ⁠Click here to take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment⁠ ⁠Click Here to Book in a No-Obligation Call⁠ Check out our website and social media handles to get more value: Website: ⁠uppermentality.ca⁠ Instagram: ⁠@taylorstaden⁠ Facebook: ⁠Upper Mentality⁠ TikTok: ⁠@uppermentality⁠ Twitter: ⁠@taylorstaden⁠

Simply going outside to practice your shot is not enough to take your game to the next level. Make your practices more deliberate by considering the types of chances and shooting opportunities you get in games, and then focus on practices those shots more. Are you interested interested in learning more about how you could possibly take your game to the next level? Then take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment or book in a no-obligation call: ⁠Click here to take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment⁠ ⁠Click Here to Book in a No-Obligation Call⁠ Check out our website and social media handles to get more value: Website: ⁠uppermentality.ca⁠ Instagram: ⁠@taylorstaden⁠ Facebook: ⁠Upper Mentality⁠ TikTok: ⁠@uppermentality⁠ Twitter: ⁠@taylorstaden⁠

Pre-game routines can help can you add an extra layer of preparation going into your games, which can boost levels of confidence. Start considering what helps you feel and think optimally heading into games by reflecting on some great past performances. Are you interested interested in learning more about how you could possibly take your game to the next level? Then take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment or book in a no-obligation call: Click here to take our 5-Minute Mental Toughness Assessment Click Here to Book in a No-Obligation Call Check out our website and social media handles to get more value: Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

For some athletes, they can make 1-2 mistakes and now they've written themselves off for the rest of the game. Learn how to mentally reset after shifts to help you move past mistakes, so you play with more confidence and mental toughness. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

By focusing shift by shift, we can make the game feel smaller and more manageable. This can help us take the pressure off of ourselves. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

Sometimes the greatest performance enhancers are right under our nose. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

Results matter, especially in high performance sport. But what if I told you that in order to achieve them, it's helpful to focus on them less? While we want to stay aware of our results, we want to focus on what drivers these results. Being our process! Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

Maximize your impact by focusing on what you can control more often than on what you can't control. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

Don't be like a box of chocolates. Be clear on what your coach expects out of you and focus on doing that job really well. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

The future is so unpredictable.. Focus on what you can control and let the rest play out. Credit goes out to Ryan Holiday for an Instagram post that inspired this episode. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

Expand your sources of confidence by looking beyond solely the results. What a great analogy from JF Menard. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

Parents coaching from the stands may be in good faith. But, in my eyes, it likely does more harm than good. Let the coaches.. Well.. Coach. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

When athletes get caught up in the pressure to perform in playoffs, they tend to overcomplicate their game. Learn to look past the pressure, and focus on doing your role very well. Doing this can help take the pressure off, and bring you back to what has gotten you to this moment in the first place. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality Twitter: @taylorstaden

Break out of your scoring slump by simplifying your game and reducing your overthinking. Focus on what you can control and commit to doing your job very well. Are you currently in a scoring slump? DM me the word "Slump" on Instagram or Facebook to learn about possible options to help you get back to scoring. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden Facebook: Upper Mentality TikTok: @uppermentality

Use these tips to help you get the most out of your visualization habits. Visualization can be used to help you improve on your confidence, mental toughness, injury recovery, and much more. Website: uppermentality.ca Instagram: @taylorstaden TikTok: @uppermentality

On the final episode of season two of Mental Dive, I am thrilled to be joined by Dr. Adam Nicholls (0:54). Dr. Nicholls is a professor at the University of Hull, where he is the leader of the Sport Psychology and Coaching group. During the interview, myself and Dr. Nicholls discuss some topics including: - What coaches can and cannot do when supporting their athlete's mental health - Why athletes are more susceptible to developing mental illnesses than the general population - Practical ways for coaches to support their athlete's mental health + much more! Check out Dr. Nicholls new book: Psychology in Sports Coaching: Theory and Practice If you are a coach, parent or an athlete who is interested in learning more about how I could help you or your athlete(s) reach your goals through mental performance coaching, please send me an email to taylorstaden1@gmail.com. Would you like to connect with me to ask questions? Then please click here to book a no-obligation session: https://taylorstaden-98.youcanbook.me My socials: Instagram: @taylorstaden Twitter: @taylorstaden Facebook: Taylor Staden Click for email updates (special announcement coming soon!): https://mailchi.mp/7ac56abb92a8/mental-dive-season-2-psychology-of-coaching

Today I am excited to be joined by Dr. Cassidy Preston (1:56). You may recognize the name from our previous interview, as Cassidy is the first ever recurring guest on the podcast. Cassidy is a mental performance coach and founder of Consistent Elite Performance, a consultancy firm that works with high performers across both sport and business. He earned his Ph.D. in sport psychology from York University, where his docttoral research focused on positive youth development and his experiences as a 'AAA' ice hockey coach. He is also a former professional ice hockey player, also spending time in the OPJHL, OHL and USports hockey. During the interview, myself and Cassidy discuss some topics including: - Why it's difficult for coaches to integrate sport psychology research into their practices - Practical ways for coaches to apply the concepts + much more! Check out Dr. Cassidy Preston's website Consistent Elite Performance If you are a coach, parent or an athlete who is interested in learning more about how I could help you or your athlete(s) reach your goals through mental performance coaching, please send me an email to taylorstaden1@gmail.com. Would you like to connect with me to ask questions? Then please click here to book a no-obligation session: https://taylorstaden-98.youcanbook.me My socials: Instagram: @taylorstaden Twitter: @taylorstaden Facebook: Taylor Staden Click for email updates: https://mailchi.mp/7ac56abb92a8/mental-dive-season-2-psychology-of-coaching

Today I am excited to be joined by Dr. Leisha Strachan (2:04). Dr. Strachan is the associate dean of research and graduate studies and a professor at the University of Manitoba. "Dr. Strachan's research interests focus on positive youth development in sport. Specifically, she is interested in examining the experiences and various outcomes of children and youth in recreational to high performance sport programs. Currently, Dr. Strachan is working on two SSHRC-funded projects: PYD Sport NET (a project that will spread the work about positive youth development through sport around the country) and exploring cultural relevancy with Indigenous youth regarding positive youth development through sport." (1). On top of this, she is also on the managing council of the Canadian Sport Psychology Association as the chair of diversity and inclusion, and a former World Championships level athlete in baton twirling. During the interview, myself and Dr. Strachan discuss some topics including: - How inclusive environments help foster positive youth development - The role of a coach in developing inclusive environments + much more! Check out Dr. Strachan's website Project Score Dr. Strachan's Twitter: @drls250 If you are a coach, parent or an athlete who is interested in learning more about how I could help you or your athlete(s) reach your goals through mental performance coaching, please send me an email to taylorstaden1@gmail.com. Would you like to connect with me to ask questions? Then please click here to book a no-obligation session: https://taylorstaden-98.youcanbook.me My socials: Instagram: @taylorstaden Twitter: @taylorstaden Facebook: Taylor Staden Click for email updates: https://mailchi.mp/7ac56abb92a8/mental-dive-season-2-psychology-of-coaching

Team building is a very common practice by coaches, however it is not always successful or done optimally. Given how important it can be to have a cohesive teams, understanding how to foster cohesive teams is incredibly important. In saying this, I am so pleased to be joined today by team cohesion expert Dr. Mark Bruner (2:54). Dr. Bruner is a Canada Research Chair in Youth Development through Sport and Physical Activity and a Professor in the School of Physical and Health Education at Nipissing University. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Saskatchewan and completed his postdoctoral training at Queen's University. His research program, which is funded by Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), investigates group dynamics and psychosocial development in youth sport and physical activity settings. Dr. Bruner has published over 70 academic journal articles, 9 chapters, and co-edited a book, The Power of Groups in Youth Sport. He is also an active review board member for The Sport Psychologist, and a learning facilitator for the Coaching Association of Canada. Dr. Bruner has been a mental performance consultant for 19 years and worked with elite youth and university sport teams, the Canadian Armed Forces, and business corporations. Dr. Bruner utilizes an evidence-informed approach to optimize group dynamics, team performance, team member development and mental health in sport and organizational contexts. Recently, he also was brought on to the North Bay Battalion of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) as a mental performance consultant. During the interview, myself and Dr. Bruner discuss some great topics around team culture, like: - How to develop cohesive teams - Why being deliberate in your approach to team building is key - Practical team building activities for coaches to do + a ton more! Dr. Mark Bruner's Contact Information: Twitter: @Mark_Bruner Website: Groups for Youth Development If you are a coach, parent or an athlete who is interested in learning more about how I could help you or your athlete(s) reach your goals through mental performance coaching, please send me an email to taylorstaden1@gmail.com. Would you like to connect with me to ask questions? Then please click here to select a time in my calendar: https://taylorstaden-98.youcanbook.me My socials: Instagram: @taylorstaden Twitter: @taylorstaden Facebook: Taylor Staden Click for email updates: https://mailchi.mp/7ac56abb92a8/mental-dive-season-2-psychology-of-coaching

We have all heard it on broadcasts, "They have such a strong team culture" or "What a championship culture they have." On the flipside, we have also heard quotes about toxic culture, and how that has made teams crumble. Either way, understanding team culture can be complex, and understanding how to cultivate it comes with an additional set of challenges. In saying this, I have just the guest for you. Joining me is Zoran Stojković (3:08), Founder and Mental Performance Consultant of Kizo Performance. Zoran is passionate about helping form effective team cultures in both sport and business, using evidence-based strategies and methods. His passion for team culture also led him to starting an entire podcast about it, called Cultivate Your Culture. During the interview, myself and Zoran discuss some great topics around team culture, like: - How to foster effective team culture - How to shift toxic team cultures - How to maintain a strong team culture + a ton more! Zoran's Contact Information: Instagram: @kizoperformance Website: www.kizo.ca If you are a coach, parent or an athlete who is interested in learning more about how I could help you or your athlete(s) reach your goals through mental performance coaching, please send me an email to taylorstaden1@gmail.com. Would you like to connect with me to ask questions? Then please click here to select a time in my calendar: https://taylorstaden-98.youcanbook.me My socials: Instagram: @taylorstaden Twitter: @taylorstaden Facebook: Taylor Staden Click for email updates: https://mailchi.mp/7ac56abb92a8/mental-dive-season-2-psychology-of-coaching

I am very excited to be joined by Dr. Katherine Tamminen today (6:17). Dr. Tamminen is an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto, where her research mainly entails the experiences of youth athletes in sport, as well as coping, stress, and emotion in sport. During the interview, myself and Dr. Tamminen discuss some areas including: - How to optimize the car-ride home after sport - How to best support your child when they are upset after sport & much more! Dr. Tamminen's Contact Information: Twitter: @KA_Tamminen Check out her Faculty Page. If you are a coach, parent or an athlete who is interested in learning more about how I could help you or your athlete(s) reach your goals through mental performance coaching, please send me an email to taylorstaden1@gmail.com. Would you like to connect with me to ask questions? Then please click here to select a time in my calendar: https://taylorstaden-98.youcanbook.me My socials: Instagram: @taylorstaden Twitter: @taylorstaden Facebook: Taylor Staden Click for email updates: https://mailchi.mp/7ac56abb92a8/mental-dive-season-2-psychology-of-coaching

On the inaugural episode of Mental Dive Season 2: The Psychology of Coaching, I am pleased to be joined by Dr. Jean Côté (3:26). Dr. Côté is a Full Professor at Queen's University, with much of his research revolving around positive youth development, and the interaction between parents, coaches and athletes in the talent development process. During the interview, myself and Dr. Côté discuss some key areas including: - How to manage the coach-parent dynamic - Tips on optimizing the talent development process - The opportunities that youth sport provide for personal development + a ton more! Dr. Côté's Twitter: @jeancote46 If you are a coach, parent or an athlete who is interested in learning more about how I could help you or your athlete(s) reach your goals through mental performance coaching, please send me an email to taylorstaden1@gmail.com. Would you like to connect with me to ask questions? Then please click here to select a time in my calendar! My socials: Instagram: @taylorstaden Twitter: @taylorstaden Facebook: Taylor Staden Click for email updates: https://mailchi.mp/7ac56abb92a8/mental-dive-season-2-psychology-of-coaching

There's big news about Season 2 of #MentalDive. Coming September 15th, 2021 I will be releasing Mental Dive Season 2: Psychology of Coaching! It will be a deep dive with 5 weekly episodes featuring industry leading experts who will provide you with practical tools to help improve on your coaching habits and tendencies, allowing you to develop better athletes and teams. Join my mailing list to receive updates on the upcoming season: https://mailchi.mp/7ac56abb92a8/mental-dive-season-2-psychology-of-coaching As for the interview today, I decided to release a bonus episode ahead of the long awaited second season. I had the pleasure of being joined by Kingston Frontenacs General Manager and Goalie Coach Kory Cooper (2:44). Kory shares his story throughout playing professional hockey, leading up to his current positions with Kingston. We also discuss how competitive consistency helped Chris Driedger become the goalie he is today, how being calm is contagious for Carey Price, how important he sees the mental game being for goalies, and so much more! Check out KC Goaltending: https://www.kcgoaltending.com/

Hey everyone! I would really appreciate it if you could take 2 minutes to check out this form I created: https://forms.gle/Ni7AUyxgjNuvf9Mz5 This will help me learn more about how I can take Mental Dive to the next level, through giving me insight into what you all would like to hear more of! The podcast will be shifting into a seasonal approach, so stay tuned for more details to follow!

On episode 55 of the Mental Dive Podcast, I am excited to be joined by Ethan Haider (1:51). Ethan is a Nashville Predators draft pick, being selected 148th overall in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. Since being selected by Nashville, he has went on to become the starting goaltender for the Clarkson University Golden Knight's Men's Ice Hockey Team, posting a .921 SVV as a rookie and winning the 2021 NCAA (ECAC) Rookie of the Year. While he experienced early success, it did not come without its adversities. Ethan began the season letting in 6 goals on 20 shots, in what felt like the end of the world in that moment. However, he learned to work through the adversity through consulting with his Goalie Coach and eventually a Sport Psychologist. Through learning how to let the game come to him, mentally reset and foster deliberate practice habits, it allowed him to give his best performances on a more consistent basis and have what was a phenomenal rookie season. Interested in Mental Performance Coaching? Send me the word “Mindset” to @taylorstaden on either Instagram or Twitter. Alternatively, you can email me at taylorstaden1@gmail.com. Thumbnail Photo Creds: Gary Mikel

On episode 54 of the Mental Dive Podcast, I am excited to be joined by Sven Baertschi (9:46). Sven is a professional hockey player within the Vancouver Canucks organization, presently playing for the Utica Comets. Since being drafted 13th overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by the Calgary Flames, he has spent the past 8 seasons between the NHL and AHL. Over this span, he has accumulated 291 NHL games with 66 goals and 138 points. Throughout the interview, Sven shares some fascinating insights into why he believes mental toughness is huge, the impact that a trade can have on your mindset and performance, how he has leveraged mindfulness to be at his best, and so much more! If you are interested in learning more about how I could become your personal mental performance coach, please send me the word "Mindset" to one of my: Instagram: @taylorstaden Twitter: @taylostaden Email: taylorstaden1@gmail.com Thumbnail Creds: Dan Toulgoet/Vancouver Courier

On episode 53 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am pumped to be joined by Mac Marcoux (2:40). Mac is a two-time Paralympic champion, winning gold in Sochi in 2014 and Pyeongchang in 2018 in Downhill and Giant Slalom Alpine Skiing, alongside multiple bronze medals, respectively. Mac shared sme incredible insights into the mental side of para-alpine skiing, including the importance of having trust in your guide, the power of visualization, how he commits to years of training for a few defining moments, and so much more! If you're interested in learning more about how I could become your personal mental performance coach, please email me at taylorstaden1@gmail.com or message me on Twitter or Instagram @taylorstaden. Thumbnail Creds: Luc Percival

On episode 52 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am excited to be joined by Akira Schmid (2:15). Akira is a New Jersey Devils prospect, being selected 136th overall in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. Since then, the Swiss goaltender has went on to become a dominant force in the USHL, recently being honoured as the USHL Goaltender of the Week. During the episode, me and Akira get into a vast range of topics. Namely, how he manages the pressures of the goaltending position, what it was like transitioning to North America to pursue junior hockey, representing Switzerland in the World Junior U20 Championships, and much more! Are you interested in learning more about how I could help you improve on your performance, well-being and/or consistency through personalized mental performance coaching? Message me the word "Mindset" to one of the following platforms: Instagram: @taylorstaden Twitter: @taylorstaden Email: taylorstaden1@gmail.com Thumbnail photo creds: @schmidakira/Twitter

On episode 51 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am excited to be joined by Raheel Manji (1:16). Raheel is the Founder and CEO of mission Elite Performance, a tennis organization based out of Pickering, Canada where they train professional, collegiate and junior tennis players. Prior to founding Mission Elite Performance, Raheel was an NCAA Division I tennis player at Indiana University Bloomington, where he was a nationally ranked singles- and doubles-player. Also during his time at Indiana, he represented Canada at the World University Games, reached the finals of the ITA Summer Championships, was an All-Big 10 Sportsmanship Honoree and so much more. During the podcast, myself and Raheel dive deep into fostering a culture of toughness, the importance of a team environment in an individual sport like Tennis, how he fosters deliberate practice, and a ton more! Learn more about what Raheel's got going on by checking him out below: Instagram: @missioneliteperformance Facebook: Mission Elite Performance Email: missioneliteperformance@gmail.com Interested in hiring me for mental performance consulting? Fill out this form: https://forms.gle/h3p1RaGWr3wHYWAM7 Cover photo creds: Indiana University Bloomington

On episode 50 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am excited to be joined by Claire Buchanan (2:27). Claire is the Assistant Captain of the Women's National Para Ice Hockey Team, winning silver at the 2014 IPC Sledge Hockey Women's International Cup. While today she can be found patrolling the blueline, she also used to compete for #TeamCanada in Wheelchair Basketball. Myself and Claire get into a wide range of topics including how she stays mentally fresh, what it means to her to represent Team Canada, how we can recruit the next wave of Para Ice Hockey athletes, and so much more! Cover photo creds: Tanja Hutahajan

On episode 49 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I have the pleasure of being joined by Tim Bernhardt (4:05). Tim is a NHL alumnus who played 12 years of professional hockey as a goaltender, with NHL stops in Calgary and Toronto totaling 67 NHL games. After the conclusion of his professional playing career, he went on to NHL scouting for 25 years with both the Dallas Stars and Arizona (formerly Phoenix) Coyotes. For 17 of these seasons, he served as the organization's Director of Amateur Scouting. Throughout the podcast we discuss a wealth of topics covering both his professional playing and scouting career. Some of the topics include how he believes Wayne Gretzky's game would translate into today's NHL, the story of drafting Jamie Benn with the Dallas Stars, the importance of a player's mindset and attitude when selecting them in the NHL Draft, the psychological aspects of scouting and so much more! Find me on Instagram & Twitter: @taylorstaden Cover photo creds: DL/Pinterest

On episode 48 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am pumped to be joined by Greg Camarillo (5:12). Greg is an NFL alumnus who played from 2006-12 with the San Diego Chargers, New Orleans Saints, Minnesota Vikings and Miami Dolphins, totalling 80 games, 146 receptions and 1730 yards. The wide-receiver can now be found on NBC San Diego as an analyst. During the podcast, Greg and myself dove into his thoughts and perspectives on why many athletes struggle with career transition. As well, we also discuss how he has tried to find excitement post NFL career, why he thinks the cultural "fight through it" mentality in the NFL doesn't apply to real life, how he helps athletes develop more well-rounded identities, and so much more! Check Greg out on Twitter: @catchcamarillo Thumbnail photo creds: Miami Herald File

On episode 47 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am thrilled to be joined by Dr. Eddie O'Connor (2:56). Dr. O'Connor is a Clinical Sport Psychologist and is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Being in the field for 20+ years in both applied and research capacities, Dr. O'Connor brings forward a wealth of expertise that earned him fellowship status with AASP in 2010. Dr. O'Connor also has been well represented in the media, with his fantastic work being quoted on ESPN.com, the New York Times, and plenty more. He is also a professional public speaker who gains the audience's attention with ease. Dr. O'Connor specializes in removing the barriers to achieving peak performance. So naturally, excellence was a pertinent topic in today's interview. Myself and Dr. O'Connor discuss how he defines excellence, and some of the barriers to achieving excellence. In addition to this, we also talk about how connecting to your values can help enhance your goal-setting, and so much more. Don't miss out on the opportunity to check out his: Success Stories Membership: https://dreddieoconnor.com/membership What to do when Positive Thinking Doesn't Work: https://dreddieoconnor.com/when-positive-thinking-doesnt-work/ Website: https://dreddieoconnor.com/

On episode 46 of the #MentalDivePodcast I am pumped to be joined by Jamieson Rees (4:21). Jamieson is one of the top prospects in the Carolina Hurricanes (NHL) system, being drafted 44th overall in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. Since then, Jamieson has been amongst the most productive players in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and was awarded for his progression through signing a professional deal with the Hurricanes this past January. The Hamilton, Ontario native is now set to compete in the American Hockey League (AHL), as he awaits for the OHL to potentially resume this season. During the interview, myself and Jamieson discuss how he's grown through the adversity of being injured in his draft year, why he believes mental toughness is important, and so much more! Thumbnail creds: Jamieson Rees/Twitter

On episode 45 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I had the pleasure of being joined by Tommy Vlahos and Alex Cimino (3:51). Both currently studying Sports Administration at Laurentian University, they helped spark a great conversation around the Toronto Maple Leafs this season. We discuss topics such as the veteran presence and leadership that Joe Thornton, Wayne Simmonds and Zach Bogosian bring to the Maple Leafs lineup, how Jimmy Vesey is maximizing his opportunity to prove himself, and so much more! Check them out on Instagram: @btbpodcast__

On episode 44 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am pleased to be joined by Dr. Linda Sterling (5:05). Dr. Sterling, a Certified Mental Performance Consultant with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology, is a full time mental performance coach and owner of Sterling Sport Mindset. After being a professor for 12 years and developing a master's program at Northwest Missouri State University, she decided to switch to consulting full-time and help athletes improve on their mental skills, performance and well-being. During the interview, myself and Dr. Sterling discuss topics such as the importance of curiosity, tips for college athletes to navigate the loss of their season, how she helps athletes build their confidence, and so much more. To learn more about Sterling Sport Mindset check out: Website: www.drlindastering.com Instagram: @sterlingsportmindset Twitter: @sterlingmindset

On episode 43 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am pumped to be joined by Gilbert Brulé (3:11). Gilbert was drafted 6th overall in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets, and has since went on to play a 15-year professional career across world-class leagues like the NHL, AHL, and KHL. On top of this, Gilbert represented Team Canada in ice hockey at the 2018 Olympic Games. During the podcast, myself and Gilbert discuss topics like his transition into pro hockey, what it meant to him to compete for Team Canada in the 2018 Olympics, lessons learned from working with a sport psychologist and so much more! Find me on Instagram & Twitter: @taylorstaden Thumbnail Creds: Brendan Smialowski / AFP / Getty

On episode 42 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I start out by giving some advice to hockey players who find themselves playing in fear. After, I am pumped to be joined by Ryan Spooner (6:07). Ryan is a professional hockey player who has played over 500 professional games, including 325 NHL games, accumulating 48 goals and 167 points over 7 different NHL seasons. Currently he is playing in the KHL with Minsk Dynamo, leading his team with 23 points in 20 games. Throughout the course of the interview, myself and Ryan get into a ton of topics including his perspectives on youth hockey development, his reaction to getting traded at the NHL trade deadline, why he thinks that the mental side of hockey is huge, and so much more. Check out my Movember page: https://movember.com/m/14058216?mc=1 Twitter & Instagram: @taylorstaden Thumbnail Creds: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

On episode 41 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am pumped to be joined by Mike Zigomanis (2:04). Mike is a former professional hockey player who played a total of 197 NHL games between the Carolina Hurricanes, St. Louis Blues, Phoenix Coyotes, Pittsburgh Penguins and Toronto Maple Leafs. He also played 601 professional regular season games in both the AHL and SEL. The 2009 Stanley Cup Champion can now be found behind the bench helping coach the University of Toronto's men's ice hockey team, and behind the mic on Sportsnet590. Throughout the course of the podcast me and Mike discuss some topics such as winning the Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the importance of staying mentally fresh to begin a season, building through adversity, and what it's like bouncing between the NHL and AHL. Thumbnail Creds: Jim McIsaac/Getty Images North America

On episode 40 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am pumped to be joined by a good friend of mine in Austin Simpson (1:10). Austin is a 22-year old natural national bodybuilder, who is currently 5 weeks out of the Ben Welders Natural Championships. Throughout the course of the podcast, myself and Austin discuss a range of topics like how he stays motivated during setbacks, tips for accountability and building healthy habits, the importance of falling in love with the process and so much more! Check out my Movember page: https://movember.com/m/14058216?mc=1 Check out his (@austinsimpsonn) supplement brand on Instagram: @immortal_labs_official

On episode 39 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am happy to be joined by Lindsey Hamilton (6:05). Lindsey is the assistant head of mental conditioning at IMG Academy, which involves her overseeing and managing, leading, developing and facilitate a team of mental conditioning coaches for over 1,100 student-athletes across 8 different sports. On top of this, Lindsey also works with professional athletes, business professionals and campers on mental skill development. Lindsey is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP), graduating from the University of Utah's M.S. in Sport Psychology after completing both the applied and thesis-route, contributing to making her a well-rounded professional. Throughout the course of the podcast, myself and Lindsey get into a variety of topics including her story, developing a culture around mental conditioning, the importance of understanding the demands and situations of the athletes and their sport, as well as a ton more! Thumbnail Creds: IMG Academy

On episode 38 of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am pleased to be joined by Justin Shafer (0:50). Justin is a professional baseball pitcher who has spent time with the Toronto Blue Jays, Cincinnati Reds and, most recently, with the Miami Marlins. Throughout the course of the podcast, Justin discusses his experiences playing in the MLB during the covid-19 pandemic, his struggles with panic attacks, and a ton more!

On this episode of the #MentalDivePodcast, I am joined by a good friend of mine in Joe Carbone (1:29). Joe, a recent graduate of Springfield College's Athletic Counseling program, is presently preparing to complete his Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) registry with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Throughout the course of the podcast, me and Joe get into the importance and diverse applications of imagery and why mindfulness is so pivotal, including a couple of applied exercises that are explained to help incorporate both of these mental skills into your training environment. Twitter: mentaljoe_ Instagram: mental_joe