Gridiron: Stephen Hauschka - The Pressure of Kicking in the NFL | E37

How do NFL kickers maintain their confidence in a position where they handle a lot of pressure in their role?In episode 37, co-hosts Ryan Harris and Bennie Fowler sit down with Stephen Hauschka, a 13-year NFL veteran, Super Bowl champion, and now an entrepreneur, speaker, coach, and consultant. Stephen shares his unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of being a kicker in the NFL, a position that often faces intense scrutiny and pressure. He opens up about the mental strategies he employed to cultivate confidence and overcome setbacks, as well as the supportive culture he experienced during his time with the Seattle Seahawks. Stephen also talks about his transition from the NFL and the importance of self-awareness and resourcefulness in his post-football career.[00:00 - 03:54] The Unique Challenges of Being an NFL KickerKickers have very few opportunities to make an impact on the gameMental preparation is crucial to cultivate confidence before stepping onto the fieldDealing with the intense highs and lows of helping the team win or lose[03:55 - 10:01] Overcoming Missed Kicks and Developing Self-LoveToughest moments after missing game-deciding kicksThe importance of forgiving oneself and cultivating self-love to move forwardUsing tapping techniques and affirmations to build confidence and release concerns[10:02 - 16:55] From Soccer to Super Bowl ChampionThe journey from Middlebury soccer to the NFLThe supportive culture and brotherhood within the Seattle Seahawks organizationWorking with mental performance coach Michael Gervais [16:56 - 22:30] Navigating the NFL as a KickerDealing with the perception of kickers not being "real football players"The importance of hard work, discipline, and authenticity in gaining teammates' respectHauschka's transition out of the NFL and the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic[22:31 - 25:53] Inside the NFL Locker RoomThe diverse backgrounds and perspectives of NFL playersConnecting with teammates from different walks of lifeFavorite Marshawn Lynch's story [25:54 - 28:04] Keys to Success On and Off the FieldThe challenge of figuring out what to do after footballThe importance of self-awareness, resourcefulness, and continuous improvementAdvice for navigating life after the NFLKey quotes: “Move in the direction that you want to move.” - Stephen HauschkaGetting to understand different people's perspectives and getting to connect like on a really deep level with people that I wouldn't have without football." - Stephen HauschkaSTAY UP TO DATE with all our content! Sign-in to our Newsletter here: I want to Subscribe Reach out to Bennie Fowler!Instagram: @benniefowler1Twitter: @BennieFowler123Reach out to Ryan Harris! Instagram: @ryanharris_68Twitter: @ryanharris_68Connect with Stephen Hauschka!Instagram: @stephenhauschka4WANT TO LEARN MORE?Follow us on Instagram: @gridiron_growthpodcastThanks for tuning in!If you enjoyed the show, please LEAVE A 5-star REVIEW, like, and subscribe through your favorite streaming platform!