B.E.T. On It: Coaching Gen Z Athletes with David Durand

Send us Fan MailEpisode #51 — Winning with Your Nervous System: Insights from David DurandIn this Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode, host Sid Bensalah speaks with David Durand, sports performance and psychology coach, founder of Real Development LLC, and author of B.E.T. On It. David breaks down his B.E.T. Method (Breath, Eyes, Touch)—a simple yet powerful framework for regulating the nervous system to improve athletic performance and overall well-being.They explore how Gen Z athletes are uniquely impacted by stress, social media, and identity pressures and how small, mindful techniques can restore balance, focus, and confidence—both on and off the field.Timestamps & Key Topics:00:00 – Meet David Durand & the B.E.T. framework02:00 – What nervous system regulation really means04:00 – Gen Z: Living in fight-or-flight mode07:05 – Social media’s toll on young athletes11:11 – Understanding stress, pressure & internal language16:30 – Supporting athletes through mindset & self-talk33:57 – Why PE matters more than ever43:40 – Overprotection, screen time & social withdrawal45:44 – Real experiences vs. digital lives48:14 – Mental health in sports: Still misunderstood49:00 – Burnout in athletes and how to spot it56:14 – The role of parents in athletic development59:06 – Enjoyment vs. pressure in youth sports01:02:00 – Building resilience through family support01:03:25 – Lightning Round: Personal insights from David01:16:00 – Final thoughts & episode wrap-up🔥 Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode delivers practical tools and a fresh perspective on performance, regulation, and connection.🔗 Learn more at realdevelopment.org📕 David's Book: B.E.T. On ItSupport the showStay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.Listen, watch, and follow:Spotify Video: Watch full episodesYouTube: Subscribe and join the conversationX: @PreZeroSTInstagram: @PreZeroSportsTalkLinkedIn: Connect with the CommunityTikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalkSubstack: Sid BensalahGot feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/