The Freshman Foundation Podcast

TakeawaysCam started boxing to gain confidence and avoid bullying.He learned the importance of hard work over natural talent.Self-belief and positive self-talk were crucial to his success.Cam faced significant setbacks, including being kicked off the Olympic team.He reinvented himself as an entertainer after his boxing career.Finding joy in life is essential, even beyond sports.Cam emphasizes the importance of resilience in overcoming challenges.He encourages young athletes to surround themselves with positive influences.The concept of athlete privilege can be leveraged for long-term success.Cam's journey highlights the importance of personal growth and self-acceptance.Chapters00:00 From Bullying to Boxing: The Early Years04:50 Building Confidence Through Hard Work07:48 The Shift: From Self-Doubt to Self-Belief10:51 The Journey to the Olympics: Trials and Triumphs13:44 Facing Setbacks: The Olympic Team Incident16:43 Reinventing Identity: Beyond the Athlete19:31 Leveraging Athlete Privilege for Longevity22:39 Navigating Criticism and Staying True to Self24:06 The Importance of Rest and Recovery24:54 Trusting Your Instincts Over External Pressure26:17 The Challenge of Making Your Own Decisions27:41 The Connection Between Boxing and Entrepreneurship28:48 Learning from Failure and Resilience31:22 Living Life on Your Own Terms33:15 The Struggles of Van Life and Pursuing Dreams35:29 Overcoming the Fear of Judgment37:08 Reinventing Yourself: The Birth of Cam F. Awesome39:35 Transitioning from Schools to Corporate Speaking41:33 Finding Joy in Your Work44:44 The Top Five Influences for Athletes

Key Topics & Estimated Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction by Mike Huber(2:10) Diamyn's life-changing football injury at 14 and early adversity(9:20) Transitioning from football to basketball to baseball—and adapting mentally(16:40) Discovery of mental performance tools: Heads-Up Baseball and John Maxwell's leadership lessons(22:10) The role of mental toughness in elite sports performance(26:00) Building systems for mental skills and leadership development at the college level(30:30) "Relax to Get Results" – Key principle in mental skills training(37:20) How to dominate the time between pitches in baseball(42:00) Shohei Ohtani's goal-setting sheet: Preparation secrets of the elite(47:30) Preparation and reflection: The habits that differentiate Hall of Famers(52:00) Visualization and why it's a superpower for athletes (Mookie Betts' example)(59:00) Convincing young athletes to invest in mental training(1:03:40) Motivation: Internal vs. external drive at high school, college, and pro levels(1:09:00) The importance of creating challenging and supportive environments(1:14:00) Role acceptance, trust, and communication in team culture(1:21:00) The importance of player-coach communication and meeting athletes where they are(1:28:00) Self-coaching: Why mastering your inner voice is critical to success(1:34:00) Awareness, reflection loops, and continuous self-improvement(1:39:00) Closing thoughts: Watering your own "grass" and building the habits of championsResources Mentioned:Heads-Up Baseball by Ken Ravizza and Tom Hanson360 Degree Leader by John MaxwellRelentless by Tim GroverBody Mind Mastery by Dan MillmanFive Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick LencioniShohei Ohtani's Goal Setting SheetCalm App (LeBron James)Connect with Diamyn Hall:Follow on Instagram @diamynhallhttps://www.instagram.com/diamynhall/Connect with Michael Huber:Subscribe to The Freshman Foundation Newsletter: michaelvhuber.com/newsletterFollow on Instagram @michaelvhuber.https://www.instagram.com/michaelvhuber/

Key Topics & Timestamps[00:29] Ed's work in confidence building and youth development[01:16] The importance of curiosity before passion[02:37] Connection between curiosity and empathy[04:06] Teaching teenagers about taking risks and trying new things[06:15] Common mistakes in goal setting[13:19] The power of positive self-talk and its impact[18:36] The importance of modeling behavior for children[21:26] Parenting with authenticity and handling mistakes[31:13] Key qualities of high-performing leaders[34:19] Practicing gratitude and being present[37:38] Discussion of Ed's book "Shine Your Light"[39:42] The role of values in personal identity Key Insights1. **Curiosity Before Passion**  - Emphasis on encouraging exploration before focusing on passion  - The importance of trying new things and stepping outside comfort zones  - How curiosity leads to discovering authentic interests2. **Building Confidence Through Effort**  - Focus on celebrating effort over results  - The importance of setting realistic, manageable goals  - How small achievements build momentum and confidence3. **The Power of Modeling**  - Parents and leaders need to demonstrate the behaviors they want to see  - The impact of authentic responses to challenges  - Teaching through example rather than just instruction4. **Gratitude and Present-Moment Awareness**  - The scientific benefits of practicing gratitude  - Techniques for staying present (breathing, journaling)  - How gratitude affects performance and mindset Notable Quotes- "It's not passion first, I think it's actually curiosity first." - Ed Gerety- "The biggest mistake that you can ever make is to live someone else's goal, is to live someone else's dream." - Ed Gerety- "Be gentle with yourself so that you can be gentle and kind to others." - Ed Gerety Resources Mentioned- Ed's Book: "Shine Your Light: Navigate Your Way to a Life You Love"- Reference to Carol Dweck's work on growth mindset- Strategic Coach program's positive focus exercise About Ed GeretyEd Gerety is a speaker, author, and leadership development expert with 30 years of experience working with students, educators, and business leaders. His work focuses on building confidence, developing leadership skills, and helping people navigate their way to a life they love. ## Connect with EdEd's websiteBuy Ed's book, "Shine Your Light"## Connect with MichaelMike's websiteThe Freshman Foundation® YouTube Channel

[00:00 - 03:30] IntroductionMichael introduces David Durand, who shares his background and perspective on working with Gen Z athletes.[03:31 - 06:50] Social Media's Impact on AdolescentsDavid discusses how social media fuels perfectionism and insecurity among young athletes. He explains how constant social surveillance amplifies the pressure to appear flawless.[06:51 - 10:09] Navigating Perfectionism and Social ComparisonDavid highlights how perfectionism can be a double-edged sword. He dives into the concepts of social comparison and fear of negative evaluation, which are heightened by social media use.[10:10 - 14:10] Building Internal Security Through SportsThe conversation shifts to how sports can be a powerful tool for developing internal confidence. Michael and David discuss the shift from seeking external validation to cultivating self-worth.[14:11 - 19:30] Early Intervention and Planting Seeds of ResilienceMichael shares his experiences working with younger athletes and emphasizes the importance of introducing sports psychology concepts early. David explains how building mental strength at a young age can counterbalance social media's negative influence.[19:31 - 22:40] The BET Method: Breath, Eyes, TouchDavid introduces his framework from his book, Bet On It, which uses the BET method to help athletes regulate stress and improve performance.Breath: Techniques to control stress through breathing.Eyes: Using panoramic vision to combat tunnel vision under pressure.Touch: Grounding techniques to enhance presence and focus.[22:41 - 29:02] Practical Applications of the BET MethodDavid provides practical examples of how athletes can use the BET method to stay grounded during competition. They discuss how these techniques can also be applied to academics and everyday stressors.[29:03 - 36:00] Mental Resilience for Injured AthletesDavid shares insights from his upcoming book, Better Than Before, which guides athletes through the mental challenges of recovering from injuries. He emphasizes turning adversity into an opportunity for personal growth.[36:01 - 41:20] Empowering Coaches to Understand and Support AthletesMichael and David discuss the importance of fostering empathy and understanding in coaching. They explore how asking better questions and creating a supportive environment can positively impact athletes' mental well-being.[41:21 - 44:40] Advice for Parents and Coaches on Connecting with Gen ZDavid emphasizes the need to approach young athletes with curiosity and empathy, asking questions to better understand their perspective. Michael shares the importance of giving young people a voice and respecting their need to understand the "why" behind decisions.[44:41 - End] Closing Thoughts and TakeawaysDavid and Michael wrap up the conversation with their final thoughts on how to best support young athletes in navigating today's pressures. They discuss the long-term benefits of building resilience, confidence, and self-awareness.Resources Mentioned:David Durand's book: Bet On It: A Psychological Approach to Coaching Gen Z and Beyond GET DAVE'S BOOKThe BET Framework (Breath, Eyes, Touch) for emotional regulation and performance improvement.Connect with Us:Follow Michael Huber: Instagram / YouTube / LinkedIn / WebsiteConnect with David Durand: WebsiteSubscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and improve the show!

Episode Summary:In this episode, I sit down with Angelo Gingerelli, Strength and Conditioning Coach at Seton Hall University, to discuss the often overlooked aspects of transitioning from high school to college sports. Angelo brings over 20 years of experience to the conversation and shares insights from his new book, The Next Four Years, which helps student-athletes prepare both physically and mentally for the challenges of college athletics. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode offers valuable advice on how to thrive in college sports and make the most of the next four years.Guest Bio:Angelo Gingerelli is the strength and conditioning coach at Seton Hall University. With two decades of experience, Angelo has worked with a variety of sports programs, helping athletes optimize their performance. He recently authored The Next Four Years, a guide for athletes transitioning from high school to college sports.Key Topics:Angelo's background and 20-year tenure at Seton Hall University (00:03)Common challenges faced by student-athletes transitioning to college (02:15)The physical and mental gaps athletes face when moving from high school to college sports (03:34)How the transfer portal and NIL deals have changed the college athletics landscape (03:52)The importance of focusing on personal progress rather than comparisons to other athletes (06:46)Angelo's insights on the role of strength and conditioning in athlete development (04:54)The importance of building a strong foundation in basic movement patterns (10:07)What coaches and parents should know about preparing student-athletes for college sports (21:47)Angelo's advice for athletes on how to best prepare for the physical demands of college sports (22:00)Notable Quotes:“A lot of kids and families look at signing that national letter of intent as the finish line. In reality, that's the starting line.” — Angelo Gingerelli“Training should be a part of your life all the time, even when you're enjoying your summer.” — Angelo GingerelliResources Mentioned:Angelo's book: The Next Four Years - Available on AmazonContact Angelo on LinkedInTimestamps:00:01: Introduction and welcome00:14: Angelo's background and experience02:15: Challenges student-athletes face in college03:34: Transfer portal and its impact on college sports04:35: The strength and conditioning philosophy at Seton Hall10:07: Importance of mastering foundational movements22:00: Angelo's advice for preparing physically for college athletics47:22: How to get Angelo's book, The Next Four YearsConnect with Us:Visit our website at michaelvhuber.comFollow us on Instagram: @michaelvhuberSubscribe on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

How did Natalie Heim navigate the transition to college athletics?Welcome to The Freshman Foundation® Podcast where we help young athletes become confident problem solvers in sport and life.My guest in this episode is Natalie Heim, a Division I swimmer and mental health counseling graduate student at Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey.Natalie shares openly about the challenges she faced in becoming a big-time college student-athlete. She discusses her experiences dealing with injuries, her recruiting process, mental health challenges, and transitioning through COVID.So, what is your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Natalie Heim?My biggest takeaway is that the road to athletic success is rarely straight and smooth. The ability to persevere requires actively seeking out help and developing the resilience to withstand adversity.I want to thank Natalie for joining me on the podcast and wish her luck during the 2024-25 school year.To learn how mental performance coaching can help young athletes become confident problem solvers in sport and life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 77.

This episode of the Freshman Foundation® Podcast focuses on off-season training for young athletes during the summer break. Mike Huber emphasizes the importance of utilizing the summer to focus on personal development in sports.Mike highlights three main points during the episode:1. **Freedom to Choose**: It's okay for athletes to spend their summers as they wish, but they should be aware of the consequences. If they prioritize relaxation over training, they might fall behind in their athletic development.2. **Consequences of Choices**: Athletes need to understand that their decisions during the summer impact their performance in the upcoming season. Huber stresses the importance of aligning actions with goals and being willing to accept the outcomes.3. **Mental Development**: To enhance athletic skills, athletes should incorporate mental training into their summer regimen. This could include practices like meditation, journaling, or improving self-talk.Mike also advises athletes to reflect on their previous season, set specific and measurable goals, and establish a plan to achieve them. He explains the importance of different types of goals, including outcome goals, performance goals, and process goals, and how they contribute to success.Finally, he suggests finding an accountability partner to stay on track and recommends considering mental performance coaching during the off-season. He provides resources for further guidance and encourages athletes to focus on continuous improvement and resilience throughout the summer break.Follow The Freshman Foundation® on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefreshmanfoundationATHLETES: To learn how to become a confident problem solver through mental performance coaching, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.

How is Annie Delre teaching young women the (stuff) she wishes she knew in high school?Welcome to The Freshman Foundation® Podcast where we help young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life through mental performance coaching.My guest in this episode is Annie Delre, board-certified health and wellness coach and author of the book, “Sh*t I Wish I knew in High School.” Annie's inspiration for the book was sharing what she learned in high school with her younger twin sisters. In Episode 74, Annie and I talk about the challenges that teenagers face - mainly young females - and how important it is to help them learn HOW to ask for help and WHO they can trust to ask.So, what is your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Annie Delre?My biggest takeaway is that it can be really hard for teenagers to express themselves openly. However, teaching them to do so is critical to their development, mental health, and overall well-being. I want to thank Annie for joining me on the podcast. You can learn more about Annie on her website at https://www.anniedelre.com/ and on Instagram @coachanniedelre.To learn how mental performance coaching can help young athletes BE READY for their next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Please follow, like and comment on The Freshman Foundation YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@thefreshmanfoundation.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 75.

Why is Angela Teeple “all in” for living her purpose of helping young athletes?Welcome to The Freshman Foundation® Podcast where we help young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life through mental performance coaching.My guest in this episode is Angela Teeple, founder of a non-profit organization called All In Athletes. Angela was a Division I field hockey athlete at Ball State University in Indiana, and then a high school coach and teacher on the Jersey Shore for over 20 years. Angela started All In to have a more profound impact on the lives of young athletes and those around them.In Episode 73, Angela wears her heart on her sleeve sharing openly about the experiences that have led her to living a life of purpose. You will love Angela's candor, energy, and sheer passion for her work.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Angela Teeple?My biggest takeaway is what Angela shared about living her standard over her feelings. It's easy to give in to our feelings, especially when they are negative. However, if we have a standard that we aspire to every single day, then we need to be intentional about achieving that standard regardless of how we feel. This is hard, but it's possible if we put in the work.I want to thank Angela for sharing her story in this episode. You can learn more about Angela on her website https://allinathletes.org and on Instagram @allin.athletes.To learn how mental performance coaching can help you BE READY for your next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Please follow, like and comment on The Freshman Foundation YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@thefreshmanfoundation.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 74.

How is David Lam making a difference in the lives of young basketball players?Welcome to The Freshman Foundation® Podcast where we help young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life through mental performance coaching.My guest in this episode is David Lam, a basketball trainer based in Jersey City, New Jersey. David serves basketball athletes at all levels, including professional hoopers. However, David's primary focus is helping middle and high school athletes develop themselves in order to maximize their abilities on the court.David shares how he grew his training business from scratch and how he helps young basketball players improve the technical, mental, and emotional components of their game through hands-on instruction.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with David Lam?My biggest takeaway is how hard it can be for young athletes to get out of their own way sometimes. They often set high expectations for themselves that can be hard to meet. It's our job as coaches to help them focus on the controllable elements of their development to maximize their potential and help them to strive to be a superstar in whatever role they find themselves in.I want to thank David for sharing his story on this episode. You can learn more about David by following his Instagram @dlamtraining.To learn how mental performance coaching can help you BE READY for your next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Please follow, like and comment on The Freshman Foundation YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@thefreshmanfoundation.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 73.

Welcome to The Freshman Foundation® Podcast where we help young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life through mental performance coaching.My guest in this episode is John Bachenski, a lacrosse player at Susquehanna University in Pennsylvania. Lacrosse was John's first love growing up in New Jersey. He knew early on that he wanted to continue his playing career in college. However, the process of finding the right college program was a challenging one.John discusses how he learned about the recruiting process the hard way and shares what aspiring college athletes need to learn in order to find their right fit.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with John Bachenski?My biggest takeaway is that aspiring collegiate athletes need to take control of their own recruiting process as early as possible. Young athletes need to do their research and ask college coaches hard questions even if it might be uncomfortable. Failing to do so can lead to finding the wrong college fit.I want to thank John for sharing his story on this episode. He's a great role model for any young athlete that wants to succeed at the next level.To learn how mental performance coaching can help you BE READY for your next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Please follow, like and comment on The Freshman Foundation YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@thefreshmanfoundationThank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 72.

How has Matt Milone navigated rough seas to find smooth sailing on the baseball diamond?Welcome to The Freshman Foundation® Podcast where we help young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life through mental performance coaching.My guest in this episode is Matt Milone, a college baseball player who has endured about as much adversity as one young athlete can. He's been through every level of collegiate baseball starting in Division 2 where his first school's athletic program was shut down due to COVID in 2020.After transferring to the Junior College and Division I levels, Matt has found security and success at SUNY Maritime, a Division 3 school in the Bronx, New York.Focusing on what he can control, Matt had an extremely productive 2023 season. Sticking with that formula, he hopes to have another great season in 2024 with the goal of making it to professional baseball.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Matt?My biggest takeaway is that resilience is perhaps the greatest skill that any athlete can have. Sometimes, circumstances derail our plans and we can only control our attitude, preparation, and effort as we persevere through difficulties.Matt is a case study in resilience. It might have been easier to give up on baseball when COVID shut down his school's baseball program. Rather, he continued to pursue his dream of playing baseball while finding ways around and over roadblocks.I want to thank Matt for sharing his story with us on this episode. He's a great role model for any young athlete that wants to succeed at the next level.You can follow Matt on Instagram at mattmilone13.To learn how you can BE READY to dominate the leap from high school to collegiate athletics, visit https://michaelvhuber.com/course.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 71.

Do you struggle to ask for help when you need it?Welcome to "The Freshman Foundation" Podcast where we help young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life through mental performance coaching.I recorded this podcast on October 5th, 2023 during mental health awareness week, so I thought it was fitting to talk about the subject of asking for help.In Episode 50 of The Freshman Foundation® Podcast, I discussed WHY it's so hard to ask for help. In this episode, I dive deeper into HOW we can get better at asking for help.In my view, asking for help is a skill. This perspective is highly personal. I had to learn to ask others for help in my late 30s and early 40s to address my own mental health and life challenges. Practicing asking for help allowed me to get better at it, and ultimately, it improved my life.SO, what was your biggest takeaway from this episode?The thing that I would like you to take away is that there is absolutely no shame in asking for help. I would be remiss if I said that asking for help is easy for me. It is not. I don't think it is easy for anyone because of the fears associated with doing so. Our brain wants us to believe that asking for help is a threat when it is exactly the opposite. It is an opportunity.If you view asking for help as a skill that you want to improve like technical and physical skills, then the odds are you will get better at it. Doing this requires a growth mindset.I want to thank you for joining me in this discussion about asking for help.To get access to more great content, register to join our community at https://michaelvhuber.com.High school athletes, if you want to BE READY to dominate the leap to collegiate athletics, visit https://michael-huber.mykajabi.com/offers/PSSHJCp2Please follow The Freshman Foundation® on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thefreshmanfoundationThank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 70.

Curious about how authenticity and self-awareness can enhance an athlete's performance?Welcome to The Freshman Foundation®, a podcast that helps young athletes and their families BE READY for every next step in the game of life.In this episode, we're privileged to host Jure Koscak, an AEQ Method Level 2 teacher, life coach, and former table tennis professional. From the importance of authenticity in high-pressure environments to understanding the nuances of self-identity, Jure shares his unique journey.SO, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Jure?My biggest takeaway is the importance of self-awareness and authenticity in an athlete's journey. Jure shares his personal experience, highlighting the struggle with the pressure to perform and the breakthroughs that come with embracing authenticity. He emphasizes the gap that can exist between who athletes believe they need to be and who they truly are - bridging this gap is where mentors and coaches prove crucial.I want to thank Jure for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Jure's work by visiting https://www.thegenuineathlete.com/aeqenrollmentYou can also follow Jure on Instagram @genuine.athlete and on TikTok @thegenuineathleteTo learn how you can BE READY for your next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We look forward to welcoming you back for Episode 69!

The Freshman Foundation® helps young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life through mental performance coaching.In Part Two of this "Ask Me Anything" edition of the podcast, we will explore the following questions:Why do I get so nervous before a game?How can I have more fun playing my sport?I've seen some of your posts on resourcefulness. Can you explain what it means?I want to compete in college. What do you think I should be working on now?What is your favorite part of mental performance coaching? 

The Freshman Foundation® helps young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life through mental performance coaching.This episode is the first part of a two-part "Ask Me Anything" edition of the podcast. I answer commonly asked questions about my mental performance coaching work.Some of the questions that we cover include:What is mental performance coaching?Why should you work with a mental performance coach?What mental skills do I teach?How do you regain my composure after making a mistake?How do you get off the emotional roller coaster of my sport?Why did I get into the sport psychology field?To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help you BE READY for the next step in your life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com 

Have you EVER made lemonade out of bad lemons in YOUR athletic career?Welcome to "The Freshman Foundation", a podcast that helps young athletes and their families BE READY for every next step in the game of life.Today, we host Dr. Empress Rose Green, a former track star turned coach due to a career-ending injury. Now, she's revolutionizing the narrative around sports and entrepreneurship. From her Jamaican spirit and pride in sports to her evolution as an entrepreneur, she shares her story of resilience and adaptation.Rose offers insights into the sacrifices entrepreneurship demands, and how her sports background instilled in her discipline, mindset, and perseverance. We also discuss the parallels between sports and business: two arenas where significant investments often come without guaranteed success.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Dr. Empress Rose Green?My biggest takeaway is the power of resilience and unyielding persistence. Life may throw curveballs, and sometimes, it might seem like a dead-end. But as Rose beautifully puts it, "there is always another day, there is always a way out, there is always someone who has it worse." The key is to keep going. No matter the circumstances, no matter the setbacks, the focus should always be on moving forward.I strongly encourage everyone, whether you're an athlete, student, or a professional, to internalize this invaluable lesson of resilience. By maintaining your perseverance in the face of adversity, you can navigate life's challenges and come out stronger.I want to thank Rose for her kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can follow Rose on Twitter @drempressrose.To learn how you can BE READY for your next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We look forward to welcoming you back for Episode 66!

Curious about how to establish effective communication and strengthen the bond with your teenage athlete?Welcome to "The Freshman Foundation", a podcast that helps young athletes and their families BE READY for every next step in their athletic journey.In this episode, we're honored to host Jeanine Mouchawar, a respected life coach dedicated to assisting parents of teenagers. From the significance of emotional regulation to mastering effective communication, Jeanine guides us through the intricate dynamics of parent-teen interactions. So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Jeanine Mouchawar?My biggest takeaway is that parents need to shift their approach from a controlling style to one that empowers their teenagers. Just as I do, Jeanine encourages parents to foster autonomy and problem-solving skills in their teens, which will equip them for life's challenges. Furthermore, she emphasizes open communication lines, where teenagers feel understood and can express their concerns freely.We're grateful to Jeanine for sharing her wisdom with The Freshman Foundation Community. Learn more about her coaching work by visiting her website, https://www.jeaninemouchawar.com/.You can also follow her on Facebook and Instagram @jeaninemouchawarcoaching.To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help you BE READY for your next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com. Thank you for listening to The Freshman Foundation® Podcast. We'll see you back soon for Episode 65.

Welcome to "The Freshman Foundation", a podcast that helps young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life.How has Andrew Trimble, Founder & CEO of Kairos Sports Tech, gone from the rugby pitch to the CEO's office?In this episode, we're honored to host Andrew Trimble, a former professional rugby player turned Founder and CEO of Kairos Sports Technology. From overcoming personal challenges to building a successful company, Andrew guides us through his interesting and valuable journey.So what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Andrew?My biggest takeaway is that the lessons learned on the sports field are not restricted to that realm; they transcend into the business world and beyond. Andrew's journey from overcoming personal hurdles such as shyness and self-doubt, to starting his own company, is a testament to the resilience and determination athletes embody. His approach in cultivating trust and accountability in his team lays the foundation for a thriving venture.We're incredibly thankful to Andrew for sharing his journey and wisdom with The Freshman Foundation Community.Learn more about Kairos Sports Technology at https://kairostech.io/. You can follow Andrew on Instagram @andrewtrimble14.To BE READY for your next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.We look forward to welcoming you back soon for Episode 64.

Welcome to The Freshman Foundation®, a podcast that explores the human side of athletes and the real stories behind the glory and the grind.Our mission is to help young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life through  mental performance coaching.How is John Gallucci helping injured athletes to get back on the field faster?Ever wondered about the crucial role physical therapy plays in an athlete's journey? Today, we're privileged to host John Gallucci, a renowned physical therapist and entrepreneur who's transforming lives in the athletic world. From the significance of preconditioning to the art of choosing the right therapist, John takes us behind the scenes of physical therapy and shares his entrepreneurial journey. So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with John Gallucci?My biggest takeaway is the undeniable importance of an athlete's preconditioning. The right preconditioning program, as emphasized by John, can make a significant difference in an athlete's performance, health, and career longevity. However, it's not a one-size-fits-all strategy. The duration and intensity of preconditioning should be tailored to the individual athlete's needs and the demands of their particular sport.I encourage all athletes, whether at the early stage or professional level, to embrace preconditioning as a vital part of their training regimen. By investing time and effort into this often-overlooked aspect of preparation, you can significantly reduce your risk of injuries and enhance your performance on the field.I want to thank John for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about John's work and his contributions to the field of physical therapy by visiting his website at https://www.jagonept.com/To learn how you can BE READY for your next step in the game of life through mental performance coaching, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 63!

Welcome to "The Freshman Foundation", a podcast that explores the human side of athletes and the real stories behind the glory and the grind.Our mission is to help young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life.How is Amy Bryant Uncovering The Secret to Winning the College Recruitment Game?In our latest episode, Episode 61, we bring you a conversation with Amy Bryant, a college recruitment advisor. She's been on a quest to redefine the narrative around college recruitment. From the euphoria of acceptance to the anxiety of decision-making, from societal expectations to personal aspirations, we're going beyond the recruitment process to explore the real experiences of students and the individuals who guide them.Stay tuned for a journey filled with revelation, introspection, and a heartfelt exploration of the less-discussed aspects of the college recruitment process.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Amy Bryant?My biggest takeaway is the understanding that students must prioritize their values, goals, and desires during the college recruitment process. Societal pressures and expectations can sometimes mislead students into making choices that aren't the best fit for them. So, it's critical to identify what you truly want from your college experience.My advice to students embarking on this journey is to start early. Understand your priorities and let them guide you through the process. Invest time in recognizing your aspirations and matching them to the right college for you. This proactive approach will not only make the recruitment process smoother, but also pave the way for a successful college experience.I want to thank Amy for her kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Amy on her website at https://bryantcollegecoaching.com.To learn how you can BE READY for the next step in your athletic journey, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 62!

Welcome to "The Freshman Foundation", a podcast that explores the human side of athletes and the real stories behind the glory and the grind.Our mission is to help young athletes BE READY for every next step in the game of life.How is Tyler Seward creating a safe place for young athletes to discuss mental health?Have you ever felt like you're seen as a performer first and a person second? Where your worth depends on your results rather than who you truly are?In Episode 60, we talk to Tyler Seward, a former athlete turned entrepreneur who is on a mission to reshape the narrative. From the highs of victory to the lows of injury, from the pressures of performance to the challenges of balancing sport with life, we're going beyond the game to uncover the real experiences of athletes and the people who guide them.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Tyler Seward?My biggest takeaway is that the identity of an individual extends far beyond their athletic prowess. Athletes are multifaceted beings, capable of much more than just their sports-related accomplishments. The pressure to perform and the eventual inevitability of retirement can bring about an emotional turmoil that is often hard to navigate. The antidote, it appears, is to seek fulfillment in diverse pursuits beyond the athletic field.I urge budding athletes to reflect on their passions outside the sporting arena and dedicate time and energy towards nurturing those interests. Having such external interests not only enriches your life presently but also cultivates a groundwork for meaning and contentment in your life beyond sports.I want to thank Tyler for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about The Life Play by visiting their Instagram page and YouTube channel.To learn how you can BE READY for your next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 61.

What did lacrosse teach Dan Soviero about being a successful entrepreneur?I've been doing this podcast for over two years and one of the themes that continues to shine through is that entrepreneurship mirrors sports. Athletes and entrepreneurs both take significant emotional risks to pursue outcomes that are not guaranteed. This requires both to develop resilience to continue on their respective missions.My guest in this episode, Dan Soviero, is a former college lacrosse player and owner of Signature Lacrosse, among other successful businesses. In Episode 59, Dan shares how his athletic journey shaped his desire to be an entrepreneur, how he left college to start his first business, and how his mission to serve others is still as strong as ever today.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Dan Soviero?My biggest takeaway is that there are opportunities to find purpose beyond sports. Retirement can be a source of great stress and negative emotions. However, finding a clear purpose beyond sports can help athletes move forward in a purposeful and productive way.My suggestion to young athletes is to think about what makes you happy outside of sports and invest some time in those activities NOW. Having something to enjoy outside of sport will make your life easier and plant the seeds for a life of purpose down the road.I want to thank Dan for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Dan's businesses by visiting his websites at https://signaturelocker.com, https://signaturelacrosse.com, and https://10xlax.com.To learn how you can BE READY for your next step in the game of life, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 60!

How is Nick Camilleri using his experiences to develop elite baseball players?I have spent more than 30 years around the game of baseball as a player, coach, and fan. I'm comfortable in saying that anyone who has ever played at a high level falls in love with the game. However, not every good player can be a good coach. Coaching baseball takes empathy and patience in addition to having knowledge of the game.My guest in this episode, Nick Camilleri, is the owner of Camilleri Baseball in Wyckoff, New Jersey. Nick is a former college baseball player who has made coaching rising baseball players his life's work.In Episode 58, Nick shares about his own experiences finding the right fit as a college baseball player and how he has used those experiences to mentor young players hoping to reach the same level.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Nick Camilleri?My biggest takeaway is that being a good coach isn't just about knowledge of your sport. It's about being able to apply that knowledge to the needs of the athletes that you are coaching. Further, coaches don't need years of experience to be good at their job if they have the right perspective.My suggestion to coaches is use your playing experiences to best serve your players, but not make it about you. This is very challenging for many coaches, including myself. However, if the intention is to serve the athlete, then they will get better.I want to thank Nick for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Nick at https://www.camilleri-baseball.com/.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than against you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 59!

How has Dan Clouser found his passion beyond the diamond?As we get older, we learn that life is more about the journey than the destination. This isn't always the case when we are in our younger years when chasing our goals often means we are hyper-focused on outcomes. One of my great joys in life is helping young people appreciate the journey while pursuing their dreams.My guest in this episode, Dan Clouser, invested over 30 years in building the Berkshire Baseball & Softball Club, which later became the BIG Vision Foundation. Dan mentored young athletes with the purpose of developing successful adults. In his second act of life, Dan is getting the opportunity to see how the seeds he planted in his first act are growing.In Episode 57, Dan shares how he has transitioned into truly enjoying his journey as an author, podcast host, and full-time nomad. Dan shares how he transitioned from his first passion in life to his new passion.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Dan Clouser?My biggest takeaway is that investing in young people pays dividends that we often don't fully realize. Appreciating the coaching journey is the recipe for having the greatest impact on young athletes.My suggestion to coaches is make your best effort to coach the person, not the game. All of us are competitive and want to win. However, we can often lose sight of the long-term impacts we have on young athletes through our actions.I want to thank Dan for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Dan at https://journeyofmymothersson.com/.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than against you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 58!

How is Marcos Baugh willing his vision for Urban Golf Club into existence? It's been said that sports are a vehicle for building character. Perhaps no sport exemplifies this more than golf. Anyone who has ever played golf knows how challenging it can be. Improvement is always possible, but it requires tremendous persistence. Ultimately, golf teaches three of the most valuable character traits known to man - patience, humility, and accountability. My guest in this episode, Marcos Baugh, is founder of Urban Golf Club, a not-for-profit organization that teaches golf and financial literacy in Boston. In Episode 56, Marcos shares how his experiences working as a caddy at a Boston country club through his teenage years led him to imagine and bring to life Urban Golf Club. Marcos discusses his passion for teaching young people life skills that extend far beyond golf and his vision for growing the organization well beyond the borders of Boston.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Marcos Baugh?My biggest takeaway is that Urban Golf Club's core values of patience, humility, and accountability are critical to success in golf, sports and life, in general. Taking on the greatest challenges and making ourselves very uncomfortable is what generates the greatest growth. In that sense, golf is a microcosm of life. Marcos is doing great work helping young people build these traits.My suggestion to young athletes is to gravitate towards those coaches, mentors, and friends that challenge you to your best even if you don't always like what they have to say. Being able to look in the mirror and acknowledge what you see with complete honesty is a sign of great character.I want to thank Marcos for his kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Marcos and Urban Golf Club by visiting their website https://www.urbangolfclub.org/ and their Instagram page @urbangolfclub.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than against you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 57!

Why is Jennifer Coleman a role model for student-athletes? When we think of college athletes, we think of the young people we see on TV. We don't think of the student-athletes who put in the same amount of time and effort outside the spotlight. However, the vast majority of college student-athletes are busting their tails every day with little to no recognition. My guest in this episode, Jennifer Coleman, is one of those student-athletes doing great things without much fanfare. Jennifer is a track and field athlete at Thomas University in Georgia. Jennifer discovered throwing as an aspiring basketball player during her sophomore year of high school. Her natural ability led her to pursue a path of improvement that is unique for a teenage athlete.In Episode 55, Jennifer shares how she developed into a high-level track and field athlete in high school, how she found a great college fit at Thomas University, and how she embraces the grind of being a student-athlete while being a full-time student and a key member of her school's sports information department.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Jennifer Coleman?My biggest takeaway is that anything is achievable with a great attitude and a desire to improve. Jennifer started as a track and field athlete in her sophomore year and made great strides very quickly. Her curiosity and willingness to try something new led her to a college scholarship.My suggestion to young athletes is to embrace the unknown path to improvement. Doing so requires faith that the time, effort, and energy invested will pay off down the road. However, the real good stuff is found in the process, not the outcomes.I want to thank Jennifer for her kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than against you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 56!

How is Anna Hennings impacting athletes in her second act as a mental performance coach?During a bit of midlife crisis, I decided that I wanted to impact the lives of young athletes. Pursuing a career change in my early 40s created a lot of uncertainty about where my choice to become a sport psychology professional would lead. However, placing my faith in the process for pursuing a life of purpose paid off.My guest in this episode, Anna Hennings, has a very similar story. Anna is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant® and private practitioner who focuses on working with volleyball players. She pursued a second career in sport psychology to also live a life of purpose.In Episode 54, Anna shares about her path to mental performance coaching and her experiences working with young athletes.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Anna Hennings?My biggest takeaway is that the mental skills that we teach to athletes are skills that they can use in all facets of life. We, as mental performance coaches, have the privilege to positively impact the lives of young people through our work. My conversation with Anna reinforced that fact.My suggestion to young athletes is to find joy in the process of growth and improvement. We often must find faith in the process when the outcomes are not exactly what we would like them to be.I want to thank Anna for her kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Anna by visiting her website, https: annahennings.com.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than against you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 55!

How is Bill Eckstrom helping coaches and administrators “look in the mirror”? Anyone who has ever attended a youth sports game knows that the sideline can be a pretty intense place. Emotions often run high as parents, coaches, and young athletes strive for results. However, player development and a healthy motivational climate are often sacrificed as a result. My guest in this episode, Bill Eckstrom, is the Chief Executive Officer of Ecsell Sports, an organization that is laser focused on advancing the student-athlete experience. Ecsell Sports advises coaches and athletic directors on how to improve that experience through a research-based approach.In Episode 53, Bill shares how his own experiences inspired him to help coaches and administrators create a better experience for their student-athletes.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Bill Eckstrom?My biggest takeaway is that all of us need coaching. We all have blind sports. It is often hard for us to see what we need to be doing differently to be our best. The same goes for coaches and administrators.My suggestion to coaches and administrators is to look in the mirror as Bill suggests. Try to answer this question as honestly as possible - are you doing everything you can to create the best possible student-athlete experience? If the answer is no, then think about what you can do differently to serve your student-athletes better.I want to thank Bill for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Bill by visiting https://billeckstrom.com. You can learn more about Ecsell Sports by visiting https://https://ecsellsports.com/.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than against you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 54!

How is Skye Eddy making the youth sports sideline a better place?Anyone who has ever attended a youth sports game knows that the sideline can be a pretty intense place. Emotions often run high as parents, coaches, and young athletes strive for results and recognition. However, player development and a healthy motivational climate are often sacrificed as a result.My guest in this episode, Skye Eddy, is the founder of the Soccer Parenting Association. Skye is a former professional soccer player, collegiate All-American goalkeeper, licensed coach, and most importantly, a soccer parent. Over the past eight years, her mission has been inspiring young athletes by empowering parents.In Episode 52, Skye shares her aim of making youth sports sidelines healthier by arming parents with information that allows them to be their best.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Skye Eddy?My biggest takeaway is that establishing clear boundaries is critical in order for healthy youth sport relationships to exist. Youth sport athletes are most likely to reach their potential if adults clearly understand their proper role in the athlete's development process.My suggestion to parents is seek out education in order to perform at your best as a sports parent. It may be cliche, but knowledge is indeed power.I want to thank Skye for her kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Skye and the Soccer Parenting Association by visiting their website at https://soccerparenting.com and on social media @SoccerParenting. To learn HOW mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 53!

Parenting is hard. I speak from firsthand experience as I have two kids of my own. When you add sports into the equation, parenting can get even more stressful. As elite performers, parents must have their own strategies for maintaining calm, focused confidence to best serve their young athletes. My guest, Rachel Duffy, is a Certified Conscious Parenting Coach. With over two decades of combined experience as a family lawyer and parenting coach, Rachel has spent her entire adult life in the trenches with families. Rachel helps families create lasting change by helping them to identify and address the root causes of family relationship issues.In Episode 51, Rachel shares her thoughts on how to build stronger connections with our children to withstand the emotional roller coaster that is youth sports. So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Rachel Duffy?My biggest takeaway is that connecting with our children unconditionally can be really difficult. Kids can perceive parents' sports participation as a form of conditional love and it's our job as parents to alleviate that as much as possible.My suggestion to parents is to explore why we feel the way we do about our kids' sports experiences. Often, our discomfort is not about them, it's about us.I want to thank Rachel for her kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can check out Rachel's Unscrew You Podcast at https://unscrewyoupodcast.com and on Instagram @rachelduffyhere. To learn HOW mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 52!

Why is it so hard to ask for help?In Episode 02 of the podcast, Lindsey Hamilton, who is the Head of Mental Conditioning at IMG Academy discussed that the most successful young athletes demonstrate the skill of resourcefulness. Being resourceful means not only knowing where to find a resource, but knowing how to ask for help from that resource. Link to full Episode 02: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-freshman-foundation-podcast/id1554156653?i=1000509706880Asking for help is hard. Many people - adults and young people alike - don't like to ask for help because it requires vulnerability. We don't want to seem weak or incompetent to our coaches, partners, and families. However, the most successful performers in sport and life, know where to get help and how to get it.In Episode 50, I will explore why it's so hard to ask for help. My own experience has been that trying to navigate challenging life transitions alone often leads to pain and suboptimal outcomes. Stanford researchers has found that children as young as seven years old identify asking for help in front of others as a sign of incompetence. Link to Scientific American article: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-kids-are-afraid-to-ask-for-help/Vulnerability by Bruk et al. (2018) as “an authentic and intentional willingness to be open to uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure in social situations in spite of fears” (p. 192).Vulnerability requires that an individual is taking action of their own volition, having the option to take an emotional risk or not (Bruk et al.) Asking a coach or a teammate for help getting better at their sport might be an example of demonstrating vulnerability in this context.“One immediate benefit of self-disclosure is more enjoyment of social interactions” (Bruk et al., p. 193).Self-disclosure often results in better mental health - and thus, better performance (Bruk et al).“When revealing personal information, individuals are prone to worry about negative evaluations, rejection, alienating the other person, losing self-esteem and control over the situation, or giving the other person information that could be used against them” (Bruk et al, p. 193).General fear of a negative evaluation of others (i.e., fear of being judged).Link to full article by Bruk and colleagues: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2018-34832-002What are the 3 simple things I want you to take away from this episode?We usually think asking for help looks worse than those we are asking for help. Coaches and parents are there to help. Take advantage of it.We are always being judged whether you realize it or not. Ask for help to lighten the load so that you can perform freely.You don't have to be bad to get better - thank you, Lindsey Hamilton. Look for the resources that will give you an edge and practice finding them and asking for help. ReferencesBruk, A., Scholl, S.G., & Bless H. (2018). Beautiful mess effect: Self-other differences in evaluation of showing vulnerability. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 115(2), 192-205.

How is Dominic Shannon building a development-first youth basketball program? AAU basketball isn't always viewed in the most favorable light. Detractors argue that there is an overemphasis on winning, physical overuse for the athlete, and no real team cohesion. However, not all AAU programs are created equally. My guest, Dominic Shannon, is Program Director for All-In Sports based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is a former basketball player that has coached in both high school and college. Dominic left a job in corporate America to pursue his vision for All-In Sports, a basketball program that would emphasize the development of young athletes. In seven years since it was founded, All-In Sports has attracted over 100 players by developing a community-oriented, highly collaborative team culture.In Episode 49, Dominic shares his passion for preparing young athletes for success on and off the court.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Dominic Shannon?My biggest takeaway is that families should look for an AAU or club program that fits their family's values. My suggestion to families is to do your homework when selecting a sports program. Development-oriented sports programs exist. Investing time to research and ask the right questions will make all the difference.I want to thank Dominic for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about All-In Sports at https://allinsportsclub.com and on Instagram @allinsportsclub.To learn HOW mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 50!

How is Tim Williams helping young men set themselves up to thrive in the future?Adolescence can be a very challenging time in life. Transitioning from childhood to adulthood often comes with a great deal of confusion. Young people can benefit greatly from the wisdom and experiences of their elders in learning how to successfully operate in the world as an adult.My guest in this episode, Tim Williams, is a father and host of The Thrivehood Podcast. In Episode 48, Tim discusses how his own experiences as a young man inspired him to share Thrivehood with the world. Tim is intent on helping young men to be in a position to thrive in life sooner rather than later. Perhaps more importantly, Tim is intent on leaving the world in a better place than where he found it.So, what's your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Tim Williams?My biggest takeaway is that I would have benefited greatly from having more mentorship during my teenage years. Like Tim, I had to figure out many things on my own and probably way later in life than I could have if I had more adult guidance.My suggestion to parents is to make a concerted effort to share your wisdom and experiences with your kids.My suggestion to young people is to be intentional about surrounding yourself with good role models that will point you in the right direction for the rest of your life.I want to thank Tim for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about The Thrivehood Podcast at https://https://www.thrivehoodpodcast.com/, as well as on Instagram and Instagram @thrivehood_podcast.To learn HOW mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 49!

How my recovery journey led me to sport psychologyI started a very intimate relationship with gambling at the age of 12. A combination of social, emotional, and financial factors allowed that relationship to become dysfunctional soon after I started gambling. The compulsion to gamble progressed over time through many stressful life transitions, including going to college, getting married, and having children.At the age of 37, I made an active choice to stop gambling when my mental health began to deteriorate significantly. My gambling led to the weight of guilt and anxiety crashing down on me. I knew that my behavior was no longer sustainable.My recovery process started in July 2012 and after stabilizing my life in the early years, I concluded that I wanted to pursue a more meaningful professional life. I was inspired that I received from others in my recovery program who asked for NOTHING in return. After much research and deliberation, I decided that sport psychology would offer me the unique opportunity to combine my love of sports and deep desire to help young people.In Episode 47, I talk about how gambling impacted my life through adolescence and adulthood. Ultimately, I found a new way of thinking and living through recovery. I have become committed to the prospect of helping young people become their best through mental training.This episode is very personal to me. I hope that my story inspires others to ask for help when they need it and to know that it is never too late to choose a career that you love.To learn HOW mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 48!

How is Dr. Daniel Zimet serving athletes in transition?Transitions, in sport as in life, can be very difficult, especially if you are not prepared for them. Some of the most challenging times in my life have been during major transitions. College. Marriage. Parenthood. Divorce. Unfortunately, I was short on the resources to manage these changes and it took a toll on my life.Perhaps, one of the most difficult transitions of all is when an elite athlete must exit their sport. Athletes are some of the most resilient people walking the earth, but yet are still human. After years and years of investment into the single most important thing in an athlete's life, sport is gone in a blink of an eye and it is nearly impossible to replicate that experience. The mental health impacts can be negative and sometimes tragic.My guest on this episode, Dr. Daniel Zimet, is a licensed psychologist and Certified Mental Performance Consultant®. Dan and colleagues in our field of sport psychology are conducting the Athlete Transition Study to better understand the experiences of retiring athletes on a large scale. In Episode 46, Dan discusses the inspiration for conducting the Athlete Transition Study and why its implications are so important to how we support retiring athletes. Further, Dan and I discuss the unique challenges of athletic identity and how sport psychology professionals help athletes keep things in perspective.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Dr. Daniel Zimet?For me, it's that we must truly understand the elite athlete's transition experiences in order to serve them properly. Athletes lose a critical part of their identity when they retire and the potential long-term mental health consequences are significant. Investing in the Athlete Transition Study is a small price to pay for a potentially huge payoff.My suggestion to elite athletes and their loved ones is share your story. You are not alone. All athletes, elite and non-elite alike, can struggle after they leave sport. Without the proper support, the transition out of sport can be extremely difficult. Share your story with a friend or trusted professional.I want to thank Dan for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about the Athlete Transition Study on their website at https://athletetransitionstudy.com as well as on Instagram and Twitter @athletetransitionstudy.To learn HOW mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 47!

Making it to any level of professional sport is extremely difficult. Only a very small percentage of athletes make it as pros. The athletes that become professionals make immense sacrifices to get there. Similarly, succeeding as a professional sports agent requires great sacrifice and the willingness to invest today with no guarantee of future success. Only 17% of NFL agents represent 80% of players in the league.My guest on this episode, Alex Beaudry, is an NFL-certified player agent. Like myself, Alex always dreamed of having a career in sports and was willing to take very significant risks to achieve that dream. Alex's background as an athlete, businessperson, and basketball coach have equipped him for the challenging transition to sports agent.In Episode 45, Alex discusses how he left a financially rewarding career in the insurance industry to pursue a career as an agent. During our conversation, Alex debunks many of the typical myths about sports agents and a player's path to the NFL. Ultimately, we explore the question, “What's the risk of doing nothing?”So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Alex Beaudry?For me, it's that being an NFL agent isn't glamorous. Agents must take on a great deal of risk and responsibility in the process of advocating for a young athlete's future. Being an agent isn't just about getting the best deal. It's about helping athletes procure the best resources and deal with the hard truths about the path to professional sports.My suggestion to any young athlete with dreams of being a professional athlete is to find advisors that have your best interests at heart. Agents have a vested interest in your success and will do whatever it takes to help you succeed. Take responsibility for your career and invest in it as much as possible to make your dreams come true.I want to thank Alex for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Alex's agency Team Lammi on their website at https://team-lammi.com and on Twitter @team_lammi.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 46!

How has Elijah McAllister remained humble in his journey from New Jersey to Nashville?College sports today are simply big business. National exposure often comes in the high school recruiting process. Now, social media and NIL opportunities are making some high school athletes into celebrities before they get to college. It might seem quite rare to find an elite college athlete that is humble and service-driven as they pursue success. However, these young people exist and persevere without much fanfare. My guest on this episode, Elijah McAllister, is a redshirt senior captain of the Vanderbilt University football team. Elijah starred for a state football power in his home state of New Jersey. His dedication to athletic and personal development led him to attend a prestigious academic institution in the most prestigious athletic conference in the country, the SEC. As you will learn, Elijah is quite humble and prioritizes helping others.In Episode 44, Elijah discusses how he developed into a mature young man with the help of his trusted coaches. His high school coaches were critical to preparing Elijah for the move to Nashville. Elijah also shares about the challenges he faced in the transition from high school to college. Finally, he discusses his mission to serve young people through his All 41, 1 for All Foundation.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Elijah McAllister?For me, it's that we often put young athletes on a pedestal based on performance. Yet, we don't really know them as people. I noticed this at times during Elijah's football career at Rumson-Fair Haven High School, which is just down the street from my home. Elijah demonstrates that there is so much more to young athletes than meets the eye. He is a young man of service and character that developed into a quality human being through hard work, coaching, and most of all, humility.My suggestion to young athletes is to think about what your purpose in life is beyond athletics. Having a larger purpose often allows us to have the humility required to grow and develop as a person. Doing so can also take the pressure off of a young athlete by not measuring their worth by athletic performance.I want to thank Elijah for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Elijah on Instagram @e_mcallister1 and his foundation at @all41oneforall.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 45!

How is Beth Jessop helping families navigate the youth sports learning curve?One research organization has projected that the youth sports market in the United States will reach $78 billion by 2026. Even the most idealistic person would have difficulty denying that youth sports is big business. So, how does the average American family navigate this landscape?My guest on this episode, Beth Jessop, is founder of Sports Parents United, whose motto is “Love first. Sports second.” Beth's mission is to facilitate healthy participation in youth sport in which the young person is valued in totality, not just as an athletic performer. Sports Parents United provides valuable resources to families seeking to effectively navigate the youth sports learning curve.In Episode 43, Beth discusses how her own experiences as a competitive athlete and a parent of young athletes inspired her to found and grow Sports Parents United. We explore the idea that young people need to take more ownership of their youth sport experiences in order to sustain participation past the age of 13 and into adulthood.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Beth Jessop?For me, parents must know how to model positive behaviors for young athletes rather than just saying the right things. Sports parenting is complex, emotional, and often leads adults to behave in a way that doesn't align with their values.My suggestion to sports parents is to be clear on your values when investing in your child's sports experience. It is easy for all of us, myself included, to get caught up in the superficial elements of youth sports, such as our child's performance and recognition within the community. However, we must remember that sports are merely a vehicle for building character for a lifetime.I want to thank Beth for her kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Beth and Sports Parents United on Facebook and on their website at https://www.sportsparentsunited.com/.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 44!

How is Barb Smith helping female athletes develop the “armor” necessary to succeed in the recruiting process?Navigating the college recruiting process has become extremely challenging in an ever changing landscape. Technology, social pressure, and financial considerations are all critical influences that make recruiting very stressful.My guest on this episode, Barb Smith, is a former Division I women's basketball coach. She also played basketball at THE Ohio State University. Barb is founder of Find My Team, a company that is an educational resource for aspiring female student athletes to empower them with the tools necessary to navigate the college athletic recruiting process.In Episode 42, Barb discusses how she is using her experiences as a player and a coach to help young women navigate the college recruiting process. Barb talks about how she mentors young women through the recruiting process by giving them the resources necessary to find their ideal fit for college.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Barb Smith?For me, it's that young athletes should take ownership of their recruiting process. It might be natural or easy for parents to lead the way for their child, but allowing the student-athlete to take the lead will likely result in the best possible outcome.My suggestion to high school student-athletes is to own your recruiting process. First, understand your priorities in selecting a college program. Second, take the lead in managing your own process because college coaches will take notice.I want to thank Barb for her kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Barb and Find My Team at https://findmyteam.com and on Instagram @findmyteam.To learn how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back soon for Episode 43!

How has Evan Burk developed the intangibles to create the coaching career of his dreams?Humans are results-oriented creatures, plain and simple. Ironically, the most successful people develop the resilience to keep going when the road to achieving their goals is paved with obstacles. Character and mindset are often as important as natural ability when pursuing athletic success.My guest in this episode is Evan Burk, former NFL assistant coach and author of a book entitled, “Finding Intangibles.” Evan started his career coaching 4th graders and within a relatively short period of time went on to coach at Southern Methodist University and with the Miami Dolphins.In Episode 41, Evan talks about how his path to professional coaching started with calculated network building, focusing on the things he could control. Evan wasn't a college athlete, nor did he have friends or family in the coaching profession. Rather, Evan was intent on dominating every day to the best of his ability, understanding that he had to keep going in order to reach his goals.Through a blend of dynamic storytelling and real-life case studies, Finding Intangibles shares Evan's unique perspective while revealing the framework for how organizations can update their approaches to make character a competitive advantage and unleash the true potential of their team.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Evan Burk?For me, it's that talent is a minimum requirement for athletic success. There are many athletes with amazing natural abilities. However, intangible characteristics like mindset, heart, and unselfishness ultimately separate the talented from the most accomplished individuals. Evan's philosophy sings to me as a mental performance coach because I am constantly espousing the value of process and controlling the controllables to my clients.My suggestion to young athletes is to think about how to be different. You can set yourself apart from your peers by taking great pride in doing the little things that others may not want to do. Demonstrating infectious energy, effort, and focus will take you a long way toward reaching your goals.I want to thank Evan for his generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Evan on his website at https://www.coachevanburk.com/. You can follow Evan on Instagram @coachevanburk. You can find his book Finding Intangibles on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Intangibles-Uncover-Performers-Championship/dp/B09SFYV3M6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=128ESTP8OD3TX&keywords=finding+intangibles&qid=1656616986&sprefix=finding+intangibles%2Caps%2C54&sr=8-1To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks ready to get better!

How has former D1 quarterback Alex Demczak gone "all-in" on a life of entrepreneurship?Athletics teaches many lessons, some of them are quite hard. Athletes take emotional and physical risks that lead to disappointment and often injury. However, the beauty of being an athlete is that we learn how to endure unwanted results and grow from our failures. This is probably why so many prominent athletes ultimately become entrepreneurs. Athletes are willing to take calculated risks and take fate into their own hands.My guest in this episode, Alex Demczak, a former Division 1 quarterback at the University of Missouri. As a walk-on, Alex developed resilience through hard work and humbling experiences. Alex's goal was to leverage his on-field learning experience into a college football coaching career. However, Alex soon felt a pull toward the autonomous and creative life of an entrepreneur. In Episode 40, Alex talks about how his experiences led him from the football field to the corporate world and then onto becoming a professional speaker, coach, and co-author of a successful book entitled “The Sale” with best-selling author and influencer Jon Gordon. Alex discusses how he coaches others and helps them grow through his various business ventures.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Alex Demczak (Dem-check)?For me, it's that we should define success for ourselves rather than doing so by comparing ourselves to others. Alex took significant risks in his life to design his ideal professional life. Major investments in himself led to meeting renowned author Jon Gordon, writing the best-selling book The Sale, and spreading his message of integrity as a coach and speaker. Alex's ability to deal with adversity in his athletic career helped him follow his heart to go all-in on entrepreneurship.My suggestion to young athletes is to humble yourself when asked to do so. It may make you angry and uncomfortable at the moment. However, developing humility is likely to give you the tools to succeed when you are ready to pursue your desired path, whether in athletics or other facets of life.I want to thank Alex for his generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Alex on his website at https://alexspeaking.com. You can follow Alex on Instagram @alexdemczak. And, you can find his book The Sale on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alex-Demczak/e/B01DSFHB8M%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share#:~:text=The%20power%20of%20integrity%2C%20trust%2C%20and%20consistencyTo learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks ready to get better!

How is Rachael Jankowsky-French helping Chicago Fire FC put the person first in the player-development process?In my practice, I strive to put the person ahead of the performer. My primary responsibility is to help young athletes improve their mental skills for the purpose of performing better. However, if I don't show that I care about them as a human being first, then it will be hard to get the buy-in necessary to help the athlete achieve his or her goals.My guest in this episode, Rachael Jankowsky-French, is the Manager of Player Advisory & Support Services for Chicago Fire FC. Rachael is responsible for helping to develop mental, emotional, and life skills of the young men at the academy and professional levels. Ultimately, Rachael's role is to help the club ask the question, what does this player need to progress in their development?In Episode 39, Rachael discusses how the club's player development philosophy is anchored by four pillars: technical, tactical, physical and mental. Rachael highlights how the Fire values the mental pillar equally and what she does in her day-to-day work to execute on that value.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Rachael Jankowsky-French?For me, it's that sports clubs are becoming more mindful of developing the whole athlete rather than just the on-field performer. Integrating mental and life skills training into player development will become more common as the results are revealed in time.My suggestion to young athletes and their families is to seek out clubs that value the mental, emotional, and social elements of player development as much as the technical, tactical and physical. Young athletes will have the greatest chance to optimize their potential if they are the best version of themselves as human beings.I want to thank Rachael for her kind generosity and the wisdom she shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can connect with Rachael on LinkedIn. You can follow Chicago Fire FC and its player development academy on Instagram @chicagofire and @chicagofirenext.To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks ready to get better!

How is Eric D'Agati busting myths about physical training for young athletes?It is extremely common for young athletes to engage in strength training to enhance their athletic performance. Many athletes start training in their early teens to develop strength, speed, and endurance. However, it is also common for those athletes to receive misleading or substandard instruction, which leads to poor habits and potentially injury.My guest in this episode, Eric D'Agati, has spent 20 years in the fitness industry. Eric works with athletes of all types, including professionals and youth athletes. Eric has a unique approach to client assessment, performance enhancement, and injury prevention.In Episode 38, Eric discusses how he assesses and trains young athletes for success. As Eric shares, training is not about setting weight room records. Successful training is about properly assessing young athletes movement capabilities and developing programming that allows them to create an athletic foundation that translates to better performance. So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Eric D'Agati?For me, it's that young athletes need to master the fundamentals of movement before using physical training as a way to improve performance. Eric talks about the “Jar of Life” and how we must put the big rocks in the jar before the pebbles and sand. In this context, the big rock is learning how to move well first before ever picking up a barbell.My suggestion to young athletes and their families is seek out a coach that will properly assess your physical capabilities before engaging in any sort of physical training. Further, find a coach that will help you prioritize the fundamentals of training in order to identify the type of training that works best for you.I want to thank Eric for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community. You can learn more about Eric on his website at https://ericdagati.com/. You can also visit him on social media on Instagram @ericdagati and Twitter also @ericdagati.To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks ready to get better!

How is Laurence Halsted passing on lessons of self-compassion to young athletes?In my work with young athletes, one of the most consistent themes is perfectionism. Perfectionism is a spectrum and each individual moves along that continuum. I find that young athletes have very low tolerance for mistakes. The word “should” is very common in a young athlete's vocabulary.My guest in this episode, Laurence Halsted, is a two-time Olympian in fencing. Like my clients, Laurence struggled to cope with poor athletic performance. He harped on the results rather than experiencing joy in competing. It wasn't until Laurence suffered a major injury just months prior to the 2012 Olympics that his perspective changed.In Episode 37, Laurence discusses how his work with a sport psychologist helped him focus on a values-based approach to competing. Through this work, he learned self-compassion for himself, which elevated his performance to levels that he never experienced before. Now, through his work with the True Athlete Project, Laurence is using his experiences to help develop young athletes in a more adaptive manner.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Laurence Halsted?For me, it's that young athletes are likely to experience their best performance when they are enjoying their sport. In sport psychology, we often talk about how our thoughts affect our feelings and our feelings impact our performance. Having high expectations and being self-critical serve a purpose, but in order to truly thrive, athletes must learn self-compassion in order to maximize their potential.My suggestion to young athletes is to practice focusing on your strengths rather than harping on your weaknesses. One way to do this might be to keep a daily journal in which you celebrate small wins and keep a gratitude list. Our brains are wired to focus on negativity and identify potential threats. You can proactively combat this by reminding yourself that the good you've produced far outweighs the bad.I want to thank Laurence for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can follow Laurence on Twitter @laurencehalsted. You can learn more about Laurence and his work by visiting the following websites:www.thetrueathleteproject.orgwww.laurencehalsted.comhttps://www.sequoia-books.com/catalog/halsted/To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks ready to get better!

How is Jon Torine passing on the wisdom of his legendary coaching mentors?Coaching, much like parenting, has a deep influence on young people. Many of us learn how to coach from those who coached us. Unfortunately, not everyone has ideal coaching role models. Coaching lessons that are passed down generationally can have significant influence - positive or negative - on young athletes. It is critical to educate coaches on effective practices in order to curb the troubling youth sport dropout rate.My guest, Jon Torine, is a former NFL strength and conditioning coach and currently an Area Developer for i9 Sports.In Episode 36, Jon discusses how he has adopted the lessons from legendary coaches, such as Marv Levy and Tony Dungy. Jon shares how he is using those lessons in his current role as a franchise operator at i9 Sports, whose mission is helping kids succeed in life through sports.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Jon Torine?For me, it's that it's not okay to stay quiet as it relates to sharing best practices for coaching youth sports. The best coaches coach people, not games. About 70 percent of young people drop out of youth sports by the age of 13 presumably because they are not having fun. Coaches play a big role in that equation. Youth sport coaching MUST be better in order to quell this troubling trend.My suggestion to youth sports parents is think about the life lessons you would like your children to learn when helping them choose what teams to play on. Winning and competing is important to young athletes, but should it be the MOST important factor in choosing a team?I want to thank Jon for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.To learn more about the nature of the coach-athlete relationship, visit: https://michaelvhuber.com/what-can-a-tv-character-teach-us-about-the-coach-athlete-relationship/To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks ready to get better!

How does Jake Boss help his players develop the invaluable skill of empathy?Unfortunately, most people equate effective coaching with technical knowledge. We assume that coaches that played at the highest level are the best coaches. Nothing could be further from the truth. Coaching is an art form. The best coaches have the ability to communicate honestly and deliver instruction that sticks.My guest, Jake Boss, is the head baseball coach at my alma mater Michigan State University. Like me, Jake wanted to play baseball for the Spartans, but was unable too. However, today he coaches at the highest level of collegiate baseball because of his ability to teach the game and lead young men.In this bonus remix episode, Coach Boss discusses the complex subject of empathy. In my view, the best coaches help their young players put themselves in others' shoes - their coaches, their teammates, their parents. Coaching in any sport is about preparing young athletes for what's next in life, not just wins and losses.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Jake Boss?For me, it's that teaching empathy for others is a staple of good coaching. Athletes may not always like their coaches or the things that they do. However, being able to appreciate WHY coaches do what they do is critical to forging a trusting and constructive relationship between coach and player.My suggestion to young athletes is simply to keep an open mind. Keeping an open mind is fully within one's control. You may not like the things that others say or do, but keeping an open mind will give you the opportunity to learn something new that will make you a better athlete and more importantly, a better person.I want to thank Jake for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks ready to get better!

How does John Lannan help professional baseball players get to where they want to go by meeting them where they are at?Mental performance coaching is a delicate balance of art and science. While there are evidence-based strategies that have been proven effective, those same strategies must be tailored to the needs of each person. Understanding what makes athletes tick is often the secret sauce helping them to get to where they want to go.My guest, John Lannan, is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant and former Major League pitcher. He currently serves as a mental performance coach in the Toronto Blue Jays organization.In Episode 35, John discusses how he applies his craft in the high pressure world of professional baseball. He also candidly shares how his experience as a former player can serve as both an asset and a liability when serving as a mental performance coach.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with John Lannan?For me, it's that the best mental performance coaches make it all about the athlete and how they can apply mental skills training on the field. As John suggests, this often occurs when we meet athletes where they are at.My suggestion to young athletes is to make the most of all the resources at your disposal. Not everyone has access to mental performance coaching. If you do, then take advantage of it to help attain your long-term vision.I want to thank John for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks ready to get better!

How has trusting the process allowed Ryan Lasko to get better on and off the baseball field?Let's be realistic - baseball is a results-oriented sport. It's easy for baseball players to jump on a roller coaster of emotions depending on how they perform. However, the most successful baseball players understand that focusing on “controlling the controllables” will allow for maximum development and consistent performance.My guest, Ryan Lasko, is a sophomore center fielder for the Rutgers University Baseball team. In 2021, he was the Big 10 freshman baseball player of the year.In Episode 34, Ryan discusses his dedication to the game of baseball and what he has learned during his first two years at Rutgers. Ryan's commitment to personal development on and off the field has made him an important part of the resurgence of Rutgers baseball.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Ryan Lasko?For me, it's that humility and commitment are two key ingredients for young athletes to achieve their goals. Ryan Lasko embodies these characteristics and is someone I'd like my own son to emulate.My suggestion to sports parents, particularly baseball parents, is to emphasize learning and development rather than performance outcomes. Baseball can be a mental and emotional grind. Focusing on what we can control will promote the mindset necessary to succeed in the long run.I want to thank Ryan for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can follow Ryan on Instagram @ryanlasko and Rutgers Baseball on Instagram @rutgersbaseball.To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks for Episode 35 with my guest, former major league pitcher and current Toronto Blue Jays mental performance coach John Lannan.

How is Kellen Lee Helping Professional Baseball Players To Optimize Their Attention For Success?Most baseball players admit that their sport is a mental battle that is constantly fought in the six inches between their ears. That applies at all levels of competitive baseball. However, the stakes are much different at the professional level. Pressure, distraction, and comparisons are significantly greater. A player's ability to efficiently direct his focus of attention is critical to success.My guest, Kellen Lee, is a Mental Skills Coach for Major League Baseball's @sfgiants. He is also a former college baseball player for @ucsdbsb.In Episode 33, Kellen shares how he helps young professional baseball players attend to what's most important on the field in order to optimize their performance. Professional baseball is a business with demands that extend well beyond the diamond. Kellen helps young men develop the self-sufficiency necessary to succeed in their profession.So, what was your biggest takeaway from my conversation with Kellen Lee?For me, it's that the demands of professional baseball require young players to invest time to improve their mental game. Most clubs have a team of mental skills professionals like Kellen for this reason. My suggestion to sports parents is to help your young athletes become more aware of the importance of training the mental game. Making it clear that professional athletes and their teams prioritize it could be a great starting point. I want to thank Kellen for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can follow Kellen on Instagram @kellen_lee25 and on Twitter @MentallyPerform.To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks for Episode 34 with my guest, Ryan Lasko of Rutgers University Baseball!

What are Dr. Travis Dorsch's best principles for youth sport parenting?Like you, I am a youth sports parent. Even the most enlightened parent can have a difficult time doing the right things for their kids when it comes to sports. All of us want the best for our children, but sometimes our actions don't exactly align with our intentions because emotions get in the way.My guest on this episode, Travis Dorsch, is Associate Professor and Founding Director of the Families in Sport Lab in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Utah State University. He is also a former Division I and professional punter and placekicker.In Episode 32, Travis shares his best principles for parents who want to put their children in the best position to succeed in sports and life. He shares some very personal stories to illustrate how he came to embrace this field.My suggestion to sports parents is do your best to put yourself in your child's shoes. Of course we want to guide them to success, but sometimes doing so requires us to appreciate their perspective and take our hands off the wheel, so to speak.I want to thank Travis for his kind generosity and the wisdom he shared with The Freshman Foundation Community.You can learn more about Travis and his work at https://familiesinsportlab.usu.edu.To learn more about how mental performance coaching can help your mind work FOR you rather than AGAINST you, visit https://michaelvhuber.com.Thank you for listening. We'll see you back in two weeks for Episode 33!