Mental Training + Race Preparation with Dr. Erin Ayala

Whether you’re taking on your first 10K or about to run Boston, this episode offers practical, insightful advice from guest Erin Ayala, Ph.D., a Minneapolis-based sport psychologist and host of Feisty Women’s Performance podcast. Along with hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Coach Liz Waterstraat, Erin shares:the value of “scary, joyful, and new” challenges;real-world suggestions for getting your brain on board w/ training;a gut-wrenching tale of a recent race going sideways;a 21st-century option for creating a vision board; and,the importance of feeling all the feels post-race.Before Erin hops on around 07:10, Coach Liz and Sarah reveal how they approach workouts while on vacation. Hydration bonus: Chug every time Erin includes a rhyme in a response!Shop our sponsors:Cozy Earth: Use code: AMR to receive 20% off at https://cozyearth.com/Momentous: Use code AMR for up to 35% off your first order at https://www.livemomentous.com/Currex: Use code AMR15 for 15% off at https://currex.com/Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/Episode ResourcesErin Ayala: https://www.skadisportpsychology.com/Feisty Women’s Performance podcast: https://feisty.co/podcasts/feisty-womens-performance/Feisty Fest: Join us from September 18-20, 2026 - https://feisty.co/events/feisty-fest/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themotherrunner/