EPISODE · Feb 24, 2026 · 1H 2M
More Than a Finish Line: Untangling Identity, Suffering, and Mental Performance with Neal Palles
from Real Fuel with SLS · host Stevie Lyn Smith MS, RDN, CSSD, CDN
In this episode we dive deep into the "middle space" between athletic coaching, mental performance, and clinical therapy. Guest Neal Palles is a psychotherapist, certified mental performance consultant, and ultra-running coach. He shares his unique perspective on the "many hats" he wears supporting athletesWe explore the dangerous glorification of suffering in endurance sports and how "grit" can often transform into "rigidity." Neal breaks down the critical differences between performance coaching (skills and strategy) and therapy (core beliefs and identity).We also chat more about:Athlete identityBurnout, overtraining, and resilience in endurance sport athletesMental health for athletesThe "suck it up" mentality in sportViewing injury from a mental health perspectiveADHD in athletesAnd so much more!Stay connected:Check out Neal's website hereFollow Neal on Instagram @nealpallesFollow Stevie on Instagram: @stevielynlynJoin Stevie’s newsletter: Stevie Lyn Nutrition newsletter
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In this episode we dive deep into the "middle space" between athletic coaching, mental performance, and clinical therapy. Guest Neal Palles is a psychotherapist, certified mental performance consultant, and ultra-running coach. He shares his unique perspective on the "many hats" he wears supporting athletes We explore the dangerous glorification of suffering in endurance sports and how "grit" can often transform into "rigidity." Neal breaks down the critical differences between performa...
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More Than a Finish Line: Untangling Identity, Suffering, and Mental Performance with Neal Palles
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