The Mental Matchup

Before he became a mental wellness advocate, Charles Wittman was an All-American basketball player — four years at Queens University of Charlotte, followed by a pro career in Brazil. But behind the accolades was a private battle with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation that spanned his high school, college, and post-playing years. In this episode, Charles opens up about what it actually looked like to compete at an elite level while struggling internally — and how those experiences led him to write The Internal Game Plan, a guide that applies the discipline and principles of sports to everyday emotional, physical, and mental health. We talk about: * What it was like carrying mental health struggles through his career * The moment Charles decided to turn his lived experience into a framework for others * How "The Internal Game Plan" helps people build clarity, resilience, and self-awareness through consistent habits — not quick fixes * Why Charles sees himself as an impactor, not an influencer * Practical tools listeners can start using today to navigate their own challenges Charles is a father, entrepreneur, and speaker based in Los Angeles, working with athletes, students, and professionals to help them build systems for real, sustainable growth. Connect with Charles on IG here You can find The Internal Game Plan here Connect with Morgan’s Message on IG here Connect with Morgan’s Message here

This week, we're joined by Jacqueline Friedland, author of the brand-new novel Breathing Under Water — that was released August 4! Jackie's path wasn't a straight line: from Penn, to law school, to practicing lawyer, to published author. We talk about that pivot — the best parts and the hardest parts — before diving into her book, which follows two women whose paths intersect through deeply relatable (if very different) life experiences. We also cover what inspired the story, including the financial pressures faced by McKenna, a competitive swimmer, and get personal about Jackie's author's note on her mom's decades of work with children on the autism spectrum — and how that's shaped the way Jackie sees the world and raises her own kids. About the book: Breathing Under Water released August 4 and is available at https://www.jacquelinefriedland.com/books/breathing-under-water or wherever books are sold. Connect with Jackie on IG here Connect with Jackie online here Connect with Morgan’s Message on IG here Connect with Morgan’s Message here

This week, Emily Boyle shares how a concussion during her freshman year forced her to medically redshirt and completely reshaped her experience as a student-athlete. In this episode, we discuss: 1. Recovering from a season-ending concussion 2. The mental toll of being sidelined and losing your athletic identity 3. Balancing recovery, school, and life away from home 4. Finding purpose and staying connected to your team while injured Emily's story is a reminder that even when you're unable to compete, you still belong—and healing is about so much more than returning to play. Connect with Emily on IG here Learn more about Morgan’s Message here Connect with Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we sit down with Caitlin Walsh, a former Saint Anselm College lacrosse player whose athletic journey was shaped by multiple knee injuries, surgeries, and ultimately the difficult decision to medically retire from the sport she loved. Caitlin opens up about the mental health challenges that accompanied her recovery, including anxiety, uncertainty, and the loss of an athletic identity she had built for years. She shares how she navigated some of the hardest moments of her life, what helped her move forward, and why choosing to step away from the game became the right decision for her. In this episode, we discuss: • The mental health impact of long-term injuries • Navigating multiple surgeries and recoveries • Anxiety during the rehab process • The challenges of medically retiring from sport • Grieving the loss of an athletic identity • Finding purpose and confidence beyond the game Connect with Caitlin here Learn more about Morgan’s Message here Connect with Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we sit down with Hannah De Groot, licensed therapist and founder of Stride Counseling, to discuss the intersection of sport, eating disorders, OCD, and mental health. In this episode, we explore: * The unique pressures within sport that can impact an athlete's mental health * Hannah's personal recovery journey and how it inspired her to pursue this work * How she supports athletes through eating disorder and OCD treatment with a compassionate, evidence-based approach * Breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health struggles and help-seeking in athletics * What recovery can look like for athletes and why healing doesn't mean giving up on your goals Whether you're an athlete, coach, parent, or teammate, this conversation offers insight, hope, and practical ways to better understand and support mental health in sport. To learn more about Stride Counseling you can visit the website here Connect with Hannah and Stride Counseling on IG here Learn more about Morgan’s Message here Connect with Morgan’s Message on IG here

In this episode, Kat is joined by Tiffany Yvonne Gratton, who dives into the mental side of performance and what it really takes to thrive under pressure. Athletes are often told to "be tough" or "stay locked in," but few are given practical tools to navigate the realities of competition, social media, expectations, and comparison. Tiffany shares actionable strategies to help athletes perform at their best while protecting their mental well-being. Topics discussed include: • Why building an identity beyond sport is critical for long-term success and fulfillment • How pressure impacts the brain, decision-making, and performance • Practical tools athletes can use when anxiety, self-doubt, or overwhelm show up We also explore the Pause → Plan → Play to Win framework, a simple yet powerful approach that helps athletes reset, regain clarity, and compete with confidence when the pressure is on. This conversation is a reminder that excellence and well-being are not mutually exclusive. The goal isn't just to perform—it's to pursue greatness without losing yourself in the process. To learn more about Tiffany you can visit her website here Connect with Tiffany on IG here Learn more about Morgan’s Message here Connect with Morgan’s Message on IG here

In this powerful episode, Kat chats with Danny O’Connor to discuss the hidden reality of eating disorders in weight-class sports and the devastating impact they can have on athletes behind the scenes.Danny shares the story behind his memoir, WEIGHT CLASS — a raw and deeply personal account of battling an eating disorder throughout his wrestling, Olympic, and professional boxing career. In sports where extreme weight-cutting is normalized, what looked like discipline from the outside became a decades-long cycle of starvation, dehydration, purging, and silence.Together, we discuss:The culture of weight-cutting in sportsWhy eating disorders in male athletes are so often overlookedThe mental and physical toll of silence and shameRecovery, identity, and rebuilding life after sportWhat parents, coaches, and athletes need to knowThis conversation is honest, emotional, and necessary. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or someone struggling silently yourself, Danny’s story serves as both a warning and a lifeline.You can connect with Danny on IG hereFind Danny's book hereConnect with Morgan’s Message on Instagram hereLearn more about Morgan’s Message hereSubmit your story for The Mental Matchup here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we’re joined by Matt Young — former professional footballer, endurance athlete, and performance coach focused on helping people create lasting mental and emotional change.Matt shares how the pressures of high performance, identity struggles, and emotional challenges shaped his journey from professional sports into helping others break free from anxiety, fear, and limiting beliefs.We talk about:Why people stay stuck mentally and emotionallyThe difference between the thinking mind and emotional mindMasking identity and hiding from the truthBreaking through fear, anxiety, and limiting beliefsA powerful conversation about healing, self-awareness, and transformation.Connect with Matt here Matt's 5 Day Mindset Training linked here The Power of Your Identity linked here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we’re joined by Trevor Ruhland — former Division I football player and national champion at University of Notre Dame.Trevor opens up about what was happening behind the scenes while competing at the highest level of college football, including his battle with an eating disorder, identity struggles tied to performance, and the pressure to always appear strong.In this episode, we talk about identity beyond sport, the silent battles many athletes face, vulnerability in men’s mental health, and what it looks like to find purpose after the game ends. Trevor shares his story with honesty in hopes that other athletes feel less alone and more willing to ask for help.Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn hereConnect with Trevor on Instagram here Connect with Morgan’s Message on Instagram hereLearn more about Morgan’s Message hereSubmit your story for The Mental Matchup here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we’re joined by Hania Taduran—former Division I beach volleyball athlete and founder of Breaking Barriers, an organization dedicated to advancing mental health support for athletes through education, peer connection, and advocacy.Hania brings a rare and powerful perspective to this conversation, blending her lived experience as a high-performing athlete with her clinical training in Marriage and Family Therapy. Having competed on a nationally ranked NCAA team at FIU, she understands firsthand the pressure, identity challenges, and emotional weight that often come with elite athletics.In this episode, Hania opens up about her personal journey and the experiences that shaped her passion for making mental health support more accessible and usable for athletes.Together, we explore:Hidden grief in athletics and how it shows up in performance, identity, and emotional well-beingWhy athletes often struggle to name or process grief—and what actually helpsBarriers to help-seeking in sports and the subtle ways stigma shows up in athletic cultureWhat it takes to shift environments so athletes feel safe asking for supportThe story behind Breaking Barriers and how Hania is turning awareness into meaningful, systemic changeThis conversation is an honest look at what so many athletes carry behind the scenes—and a reminder that vulnerability isn’t weakness, it’s a pathway to connection, healing, and growth.Connect with Breaking Barriers Org here Follow Breaking Barriers Org on IG here Follow Morgan's Message on IG hereFollow The Mental Matchup on IG here Find out more about Morgan's Message here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we’re joined by Tyler Ingle — a former student-athlete and communications professional whose journey through mental health challenges is as raw as it is impactful.Tyler opens up about navigating anxiety, depression, and a severe eating disorder, while also processing deeply personal experiences like his father leaving at a young age. These are the kinds of struggles that often go unspoken in athletics and in life—and Tyler is changing that.Through honesty and reflection, Tyler shares how his experiences shaped not only who he is today, but how he shows up for others. From working across professional sports leagues like the NWSL and USL to supporting athletes at the collegiate level, his mission is clear: to make a positive difference and remind people they’re not alone.In this episode, we talk about:The hidden nature of mental health struggles in athletesWhat it looks like to confront anxiety, depression, and disordered eatingProcessing abandonment and its long-term impactPractical strategies Tyler used to move forwardHow vulnerability can become a tool for connection and changeThis conversation is a powerful reminder that healing isn’t linear—and that your story, no matter how heavy, can become something that helps someone else keep going.Connect with Tyler on IG hereConnect with Tyler here Follow Morgan's Message on IG here Follow The Mental Matchup on IG hereFind out more about Morgan's Message here

This week on The Mental Matchup, Lisa Fiore shares a deeply personal story about how her mental health journey has shaped the way she shows up — as a parent, leader, and advocate.Lisa opens up about struggling with disordered eating beginning in high school and navigating a path that spanned more than two decades. She reflects on how those experiences changed her relationship with herself and how they now inform the way she talks about mental health with her children and supports others in her community.Today, Lisa channels her experiences into leadership and service. A former Executive Director of Girls on the Run and current Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Lehigh Valley Association of Independent Colleges, she is passionate about creating supportive environments for young people to grow and thrive.We talk about healing, resilience, parenting with openness, and the hope that comes from sharing your story.Connect with Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we sit down with Laura Ollinger, a Teen & Young Adult Well-Being Coach and Founder of Positively Healthy Coaching. Laura works 1:1 with teens to help them navigate stress, anxiety, and self-doubt while building the tools they need to thrive.With an extensive background — including being a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Elite Neuroencoding Specialist, and clinically certified in stress and self-regulation through HeartMath — Laura brings both science and strategy to her work with young people.In this episode, we explore:The biggest challenges teens and young adults are facing todayHow stress and anxiety show up — and what to do about itThe difference between confidence that’s built vs. confidence that’s performedPractical tools to help young people regulate emotions and build resilienceHow parents, coaches, and mentors can better support the athletes and teens in their livesLaura’s approach focuses on developing both mindset and skill set — empowering young people to feel more confident, connected, and clear in who they are and where they’re going.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in the well-being and development of the next generation.Connect with Laura here Follow Morgan's Message on IG here Connect with Morgan's Message here

Ally Irish is back for Part 2 on The Mental Matchup—and this time, we’re diving deeper into her work in athlete mental health research.Building off her experience co-founding The Head Game Project, Ally shares insights from a qualitative research study conducted with NCAA Division III athletes, focused on understanding well-being through the lens of the whole person. From identity and time demands to team culture, relationships, and external pressures, this conversation explores the many factors that shape a student-athlete’s experience beyond performance.We unpack what athletes are really navigating day-to-day—and why shifting the conversation to support the full human behind the athlete is critical for long-term well-being and success.Find Morgan’s Message hereConnect with Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we’re joined by former Division II lacrosse player Allison Irish, who co-founded The Head Game Project, a peer-to-peer mental health advocacy group created to support student-athletes and spark more open conversations about well-being.What started as a senior-year initiative at Saint Anselm College became the foundation for Ally’s career in clinical psychology and athlete mental health. We talk about athlete-led advocacy, shifting sport culture, and how empowering teammates to support one another can transform well-being and performance.Find Morgan’s Message hereConnect with Morgan’s Message on IG here

What if an athlete doesn’t quit because they stop loving their sport — but because they never learned how to handle the pressure?This week on The Mental Matchup, Coach Bre shares her journey as a former collegiate volleyball player who appeared successful on the outside while quietly struggling with the mental demands of high-level competition. Discovering mental performance training later in her career transformed her relationship with sport and inspired her life’s work.Now a Certified Mental Performance Coach and Co-Founder of The Elite Competitor, Coach Bre helps athletes, coaches, and parents build practical mental skills so athletes can handle pressure, grow through adversity, and enjoy their sport — before burnout or setbacks hit.A 4× state champion head volleyball coach, Coach Bre brings 13+ years of experience and a background in education to redefining how mental training shows up in sports.Find the Coach Her Game Podcast hereFind the Coach Her Game YouTube hereConnect with Coach Bre on IG hereFind Morgan’s Message hereConnect with Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week, we’re joined by former Division III lacrosse player and mental health counselor Maddie Meadows.Maddie shares her journey with anxiety — and the pivotal conversation with her mom that led her to begin therapy. Just two years later, during her senior lacrosse season, her mom was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer. Maddie opens up about navigating anticipatory grief while balancing athletics, academics, and life after sport.Now working in the mental health field, she reflects on the gaps in support at the Division III level and challenges the idea that “mental toughness” should come before mental health.This episode is a powerful reminder that athletes are human first — and that support systems matter.Learn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

In this episode of The Mental Matchup, Kat chats with Aubrey — a Division I field hockey player at Lehigh University and co-founder of the Live Like Liv Foundation — to talk about what it’s really like to navigate profound loss as a young adult and student-athlete.After losing her best friend, Liv, to leukemia, Aubrey found herself balancing the demands of Division I athletics while carrying a grief that felt impossible to put into words. In this conversation, she shares how loss reshaped her identity, her relationship with sport, and the way she shows up for others.Aubrey opens up about:What grief looked like behind the scenes of being a “high-functioning” athleteThe silent pressure student-athletes feel to keep performing while struggling internallyHow vulnerability became a source of strengthBuilding the Live Like Liv Foundation to honor her best friend’s legacyThis episode is a reminder that student-athletes are navigating more than practices, games, and exams — they’re navigating life. And sometimes, that life includes unimaginable loss.Learn more about Live Like Live hereLearn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week on The Mental Matchup, Kat sits down with a true force of nature, Mallory Holloway. Mallory is a Division I runner at Marist University who’s redefining what’s possible while living with cystic fibrosis. From childhood days spent doing three breathing treatments a day to becoming a collegiate athlete, her story is all about resilience, perspective, and the power of hope.In this conversation, she opens up about growing up with a rare lung disease, the mental health challenges that came with it, and how one life-changing medication gave her the chance to chase her dreams. It’s a story of grit, gratitude, and what it means to keep showing up — breath by breath, mile by mile.Connect with Mallory on IG hereLearn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG hereFollow The Mental Matchup on IG here

In this episode, Kat is joined by the team behind The Keep Going Podcast — a show born from the same mission that started Morgan’s Message: to destigmatize mental health in athletics and remind student-athletes that they are never alone.They share the story of how Morgan’s Message began, how The Keep Going Podcast continues that mission, and the impact of bringing real, raw mental health conversations into the athletic world. From navigating grief and identity to building community through storytelling, this episode is a reminder that sharing your story can inspire others to keep going.Listen to The Keep Going Podcast to hear more powerful stories from athletes and advocates who are changing the conversation around mental health.Connect with The Keep Going Podcast on IG hereListen to The Keep Going Podcast here Learn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG hereFollow The Mental Matchup on IG here

In this deeply personal solo episode, Kat opens up about losing a close friend to suicide — and how grief reshaped every part of her life. She reflects on what it means to live through unimaginable loss, the ways grief shows up in the body and mind, and how healing isn’t about “getting over it,” but learning to carry it differently.Kat also shares insights from her own journey and the science behind grief — how it impacts the brain, why it changes us, and what helps along the way. This conversation is raw, real, and a reminder that grief is both deeply human and deeply personal. Whether you’ve experienced loss or are supporting someone who has, this episode offers space, compassion, and hope.Learn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG hereFollow The Mental Matchup on IG here

In this week’s episode of The Mental Matchup, Kat sits down with Erin Devine, a current member of the Rutgers Women’s Lacrosse team, to talk about resilience, identity, and finding yourself beyond the setbacks. After enduring multiple knee injuries, Erin opens up about what it was like to shift into a new role on her team, the mental toll of recovery, and how she learned to listen when she stopped feeling like herself.Erin shares her journey through vulnerability and strength. From redefining success to learning that healing is not just physical, but emotional too. Her story is a powerful reminder that your worth as an athlete isn’t measured by stats or playing time, but by the courage it takes to keep showing up for yourself and others.Connect with Erin on IG here and here Follow The Mental Matchup on IG hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here Learn more about Morgan’s Message here

This week, Kat sits down with Gabby Pelfrey to talk about the pressures of college athletics, the challenges of graduating, and the journey of rediscovering joy after sport. Gabby shares how she found healing in new routines, self-discovery, and building a life beyond competition by offering encouragement to anyone navigating the transition out of athletics.Connect with Gabby on IG hereLearn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week on The Mental Matchup, Kat sits down with Lisa Isenman, a psychotherapist with the Wake Kendall Group in Washington, DC. Lisa’s career journey is anything but traditional—after decades in communications and education, she returned to school to become a psychotherapist, guided by her belief that “mental health care isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.”In this episode, Lisa shares how curiosity and empathy shape her work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families as they navigate trauma, identity, and life’s toughest transitions. She also dives into her passion for collective action through serving on the board of Champions for Children, where she helps address the children’s mental health crisis in the DMV area, and her role as an executive officer with the International Association for Counselling, working toward global mental health equity.Together, we explore:Lisa’s personal journey into mental health and why she chose to change careersThe role of curiosity and empathy in guiding young athletes, students, and families through adversityHow Champions for Children and international collaboration are expanding access to care and breaking stigmaLisa’s story is a reminder that one person’s decision to lean into passion and purpose can ripple outward to change lives and communities.Learn more about Champions for Children hereFollow Champions for Children on LinkedInLearn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week on The Mental Matchup, Kat sits down with Paula Widerlite, Co-Founder and Chair of Champions for Children, a nonprofit led by women dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. With over 40 years of experience in nonprofit healthcare leadership, including 25 years as Chief Strategy Officer for a major DC-area health system,  Paula brings deep expertise and a personal passion for advancing children’s mental health.In this episode, Paula shares:Leadership & Vision: What Champions for Children’s mission means to her personally, and how she fosters the collective energy of strong women leaders.Understanding the Crisis: Why children’s mental health is a growing crisis and how her organization turns awareness into action through grants, events, and collaborations.Programs & Community: The story behind “Be a Champion on World Mental Health Day,” plus how their panels and education series expand awareness and reduce stigma.Reflections & Looking Ahead: What Paula is most proud of, where she sees the greatest opportunity to expand access, and how listeners can support this critical mission.Through Champions for Children, Paula has convened partners, advocates, and leaders to shine a light on youth mental health and build solutions that matter. Her story is a powerful reminder that when passion meets purpose, and when women lead boldly, real change is possible.Learn more about Champions for Children hereFollow Champions for Children on LinkedInLearn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week on The Mental Matchup, Kat chats with Kaylin Ricci. Kaylin is a Division I soccer player and fierce advocate for resilience. Just one day after her final season opening game, Kaylin’s world shifted unimaginably with the sudden loss of her mother. Through unimaginable grief, she made the courageous decision to return to the field, playing out her senior season in her mother’s honor. In this episode, Kaylin shares her journey of loss, strength, and what it truly means to keep going when everything feels like it’s falling apart.Connect with Morgan’s Message or submit your story hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

In this week's episode, Kat chats with Alec Ingold about identity, creating locker room culture, and leadership. Alec plays professional football for the Miami Dolphins. Alec grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where he was adopted into a close-knit and supportive family. He played college football for the Wisconsin Badgers. In 2019, he signed with the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent, and in 2021 signed with the Miami Dolphins. He is a gifted motivational speaker, and while his accomplishments are remarkable on their own, it’s Alec’s story of overcoming adversity that has inspired thousands. Through his Ingold Family Foundation, Alec works to empower underserved youth through accessible and impactful learning experiences. Learn more about the Ingold Family Foundation hereLearn more about Alec hereLearn more about Morgan's Message hereFollow Morgan's Message here

Hannah Conner is a licensed clinical professional counselor based in Chicago, IL, with a Master of Arts in Counseling and a specialization in Sport and Health Psychology from Adler University. She specializes in supporting athletes, particularly those navigating the transition out of collegiate or elite sports.In this episode, Hannah joins Kat to explore emotionally unsafe environments in athletics: how to identify them, their impact on mental health, and how athletes can begin to heal.Learn more about Hannah hereGet in touch with Hannah hereLearn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we’re joined by Lysander Rehnstrom, a former walk-on at George Mason to Navy Men's Basketball Captain, and U.S. Marine Corps Ground Officer in training. Lysander shares his deeply personal journey with mental health: from growing up under pressure, navigating a life-threatening injury in high school, walking on at George Mason, and ultimately transferring to the Naval Academy.He opens up about the mental toll of early expectations, the value of vulnerability, and the moments that nearly made him quit the sport he loves. Now a trained Peer Advisor and advocate, Lysander uses his platform to share that athletes are more than their stats — and that asking for help is a sign of strength.We talk about:Mental health challenges in high-performance environmentsImpact of coaching and injury on athlete identityThe power of peer support in recoveryConnect with Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

#168: In this episode of The Mental Matchup, we’re joined by Alex Heishman, a former DIII women’s lacrosse player, campus liaison for Morgan’s Message, and now a licensed social worker. Alex opens up about her 4+ year journey with Morgan’s Message and her own experience navigating mental health challenges as a student-athlete.From battling self-criticism and panic attacks to a difficult coaching relationship that made her fall out of love with lacrosse, Alex shares her path to rediscovering joy, purpose, and identity — both on and off the field. Now working as a middle school counselor, she reflects on the importance of vulnerability, mental health advocacy, and the ongoing impact of Morgan’s Message.Topics covered:Mental health and sport performanceNavigating negative coaching relationshipsAthlete burnout & recoveryFinding identity post-graduationThe power of sharing your storyFollow Morgan’s Message on IG hereLearn more about Morgan’s Message here

Catie-Reagan King, Ed.D., is the Director of Mental Health Education at the Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation. She joins The Mental Matchup to discuss the foundation and its resources, including free digital toolkits designed to support individuals and organizations focused on mental health. These toolkits offer practical strategies for starting conversations, coping with challenges, and creating supportive environments for those who are struggling.Find out more about the CKG Foundation hereFind out more about the digital toolkits hereFollow the CKG Foundation on IG hereFind out more about Morgan's Message and submit your story hereFollow Morgan's Message on IG here

This week's guest is Lindsey Wilson, a mindset and mental performance coach best known as The Sports Hypnotist. With a professional basketball career spanning close to a decade, Lindsey took her knowledge of the mental game to work with collegiate athletes, professional athletes from Olympians and players in the NFL and WNBA all the way to youth athletes. She is the founder of Positive Performance and The Mindset Coach Academy where she helps aspiring mental performance coaches start their dream business and impact lives.  She’s also the author of the upcoming book Think Like an Athlete which teaches the critical and undertrained skill of belief and how to build it to be successful on the playing field and off.Lindsey believes in the transformative power of sports and that coaches and athletes need simple, effective mental performance training tools that don’t take a lot of time. Her mission is to teach these tools so that coaches can have a massive impact on athletes performance, enjoyment of competing and life. On today's episode we discuss the power of the brain, visualization, goal setting and Lindsey's passion for helping athletes succeed. Listen to Episode 166 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts now!Connect with Lindsey on IG hereLearn more about Positive Performance Training hereConnect with Morgan’s Message on IG hereLearn more about Morgan’s Message here

Redefining Strength: Megan Shaver on Recovery, Rowing & Changing the CultureIn this episode of The Mental Matchup, Kat chats with Megan Shawver, a former collegiate rower and current graduate student studying Nutrition and Dietetics. Megan shares her personal journey with disordered eating, her experience navigating mental health challenges as a student-athlete, and how finding supportive communities like Morgan’s Message helped shape her recovery.From rowing at Franklin Pierce to pursuing a career in nutrition, Megan opens up about the realities athletes face, the connection between sport and disordered eating, and why it’s so important to challenge outdated cultural norms in athletics. Find out more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message here

Catholic University field hockey player Mary Rojack joins us to talk about her journey with mental health, being part of the Morgan’s Message community, and the impact of building support both on and off campus. 💙From New Jersey to Catholic U, Mary’s passion for advocacy and connection shines through. Tune in to hear her story!Find out more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message here

In this episode, Kat chats with Clare Kehoe, the Director of Education and one of the co-founders of Morgan’s Message. Clare opens up about her friendship with Morgan Rodgers—the memories they shared, the support she tried to offer, and the heartbreak of losing someone you love to suicide. She shares what drove her to help launch Morgan’s Message and how that loss forever changed the direction of her life.Through grief, Clare has built something deeply meaningful: a movement that empowers student-athletes to speak up, support one another, and normalize conversations around mental health. We dive into how the Ambassador Program was created, how it’s grown to over 1,500 campuses, and the role it plays in changing culture—one conversation at a time.Learn more about Morgan’s Message here Follow @morgansmessage on IG hereApply to join or start an Ambassador Program at your school here

Marina Paul is the founder of SPRHRA, a women's sportswear brand built on real female athlete data. A former Division 1 soccer player and All-American at Georgetown University, Marina overcame significant challenges—depression, eating disorders, and ACL injuries—to become the program’s first-ever three-time captain, leading her team to the first-ever College Cup Final Four. Through SPRHRA and her advocacy, she is dedicated to empowering female athletes.You can shop the SPRHRA x MM Short hereFind SPRHRA on IG hereInterested in Team Uniforms? You can find out more hereConnect with Morgan's Message on IG hereLearn more about Morgan's Message here

In this episode of The Mental Matchup, we sit down with Emma Kilbride, co-founder of Here for You Clothing, to talk about her lifelong journey with anxiety, depression, and tic disorder, and how stepping away from college became the turning point in her healing. Emma shares her raw and honest story of hitting pause on life as she knew it, doing the inner work through therapy and reflection, and ultimately rediscovering her purpose in mental health advocacy. Now, through Here For You Clothing, Emma is building community and connection through powerful storytelling and wearable reminders that no one is ever alone.We discuss:The reality of living with anxiety, depression, and ticsWhy leaving college became a critical act of self-careThe healing power of therapy and communityHow Emma turned pain into purpose through Here For You ClothingShop Here For You Clothing at hereforyouclothing.comUse code MENTALMATCHUP for 20% off your order!You can find here for you at @hereforyouclothingFollow Morgan's Message at @morgansmessageLearn more about Morgan's Message here

This week on The Mental Matchup, we sit down with Ben Redlener, a sophomore lacrosse player at Emerson College, to talk about the pressures that come with being a student-athlete—and the quiet battles that often go unseen.Ben opens up about his mental health journey, reflecting on how constantly comparing himself to other athletes and peers impacted his confidence, academic life, and athletic performance. Through vulnerability and growth, Ben has found strength in accepting his own path and is now using his voice to support others doing the same.In this episode, we cover:The weight of comparison in athletics and lifeThe impact of self-doubt on performance and progressRedefining success and self-worth as a student-athleteFinding power in vulnerability and communityListen to Ben's podcast Attolo hereFind out more about Morgan's Message here Follow Morgan's Message on IG here

#159 - In this episode, I sit down with Ellie Haney, a 26-year-old mental health advocate and founder of Here For You Clothing. Born out of her own mental health journey during the height of the pandemic, Ellie's mission is to create meaningful conversations and community through intentional fashion.Ellie opens up about her struggles, the healing power of creativity, and how a simple phrase—“Here For You”—became the foundation of a movement. Alongside her best friend and managing partner, Emma Kilbride, Ellie has turned a powerful message into a brand that shows up on college campuses, in classrooms, and on streets across the country.Shop Here For You Clothing at hereforyouclothing.comUse code MENTALMATCHUP for 20% off your order!You can find Ellie at @e_hanesYou can find here for you at @hereforyouclothingFollow Morgan's Message at @morgansmessageLearn more about Morgan's Message here

In this episode of The Mental Matchup, we sit down with Emma Reen, to discuss her journey through sports, mental health challenges, and the lessons she's learned along the way. She opens up about resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health in athletics. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that reminds us all that we are never alone in our struggles.9Follow Morgan’s Message on IG hereFind out more about Morgan’s Message here

In this week's episode, Kat sits down with Sophia Burke. Sophia's had a unique experience, navigating her mental health and her battle with addiction. Sophia talks about her experience with alcohol, playing collegiate lacrosse, relationships and the path to sobriety and healing. She's now in a place to reflect on the past couple of years and takes us on a truly inspiring journey.Trigger warning: suicide, depression, anxiety, sexual assault, alcohol usage and disordered eatingPresented by Morgan’s MessageIG: morgansmessage

In this episode, Kat chats with Kori Toms, a Le Moyne College soccer player who opens up about her journey as a student-athlete and the mental and emotional challenges she’s faced along the way.Topics Discussed:The emotional impact of her mom’s breast cancer diagnosis and how her family became her foundation of support.Navigating the recruiting process during COVID and transitioning to Division I soccer at Le Moyne College.Discovering the importance of mental health in high school, managing a lingering knee injury, and finding balance through outlets beyond her sport.This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of leaning on your support system, finding safe spaces, and prioritizing mental health as an athlete.Find out more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

Today Kat’s joined by Gianna Burgio, a cross country and track athlete from Rowan University with a passion for empowering the next generation of runners. Gianna opens up about her journey through high school, where she struggled with an eating disorder that went undiagnosed. She shares how running became a part of her life, the lessons she’s learned about food, sports, and self-love, and her mission to ensure young athletes—especially young women—know the importance of both nourishing their bodies and finding joy in their passions.Topics Discussed:Gianna’s introduction to running and how it shaped her identityHer experience navigating an undiagnosed eating disorder during high schoolThe connection between food, performance, and mental health in young athletesHer aspirations to give back to her community as a teacher and coachAdvice for young female athletes about self-love and the joy of sportConnect with Gianna here Get in touch with Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

In this powerful episode, Jeremy Wolf, former DIII baseball player turned professional athlete and mental performance advocate, shares his incredible journey through sports and life. From being drafted by the New York Mets to helping Israel qualify for the Olympics, Jeremy reflects on the highs and lows of his career, including grappling with identity, mental health struggles, and finding purpose beyond the field.Today, Jeremy runs MindReady, a company dedicated to providing athletes with accessible mental performance coaching. Join us as we discuss his inspiring story, lessons learned from failure, and how he’s revolutionizing athlete support with MindReady.What You'll Learn:Jeremy's transition from DIII baseball to professional sports.The struggles of identity and mental health athletes face.Lessons from founding More Than Baseball and forming the MiLBPA union.How MindReady is making mental performance coaching affordable and accessible.Links & Resources:Learn more about MindReady hereYou can follow MindReady on IG hereGet in touch with Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here

In this episode, Bella Griffin shares her journey of resilience and self-discovery. From San Diego to the sand courts of Tulane, Bella’s athletic career has been shaped by both her passion for beach volleyball and her perseverance through back-to-back ACL tears.She opens up about:Overcoming Challenges: Facing two ACL tears during high school and navigating surgeries, redshirting freshman year of college and physical therapy.Mental Health Struggles: The impact of injuries on her mental health and the transformative moment of asking for help.Athlete Identity: Rediscovering herself outside of sports and finding new joys in life.Gratitude: The invaluable support from her family, coaches, teammates, and PT team.Bella’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of seeking support, and the beauty of finding balance beyond the game.Learn more about Morgan’s Message here!Follow Morgan’s Message on IG here!

Join us for an incredible conversation with Dr. Haley Perlus, an accomplished Sport and Performance Psychology Practitioner, as she shares her expertise on mastering the mental game. Drawing from her competitive Alpine ski racing background and a Ph.D. in Sport Psychology, Dr. Perlus brings practical insights for anyone willing to listen.In this episode, we dive into:Athlete Identity and Transition: Strategies for redefining self-worth and thriving beyond sports.Handling Performance Pressure: Tangible techniques to harness pressure and build resilience.Normalizing Emotions in High Performance: How to embrace emotions as tools for growth.Resources Mentioned:Dr. Haley Perlus’s book: Personal Podium: How to Use Your Mind to Maximize Your Potential in Sport and Life (buy it here!)Learn more about Dr. Perlus: LinkedIn / YoutubeLearn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on Instagram here

This week, we're excited to have Lindsey Ronbeck back on the podcast! We’re talking all about friendships – from the teammate relationships to navigating life post-college without that shared common goal.Ever wonder how to find like-minded friends after college? Or which friendships to lean into versus lean out of? We’re diving into all that, plus tips for staying mentally strong in a social media-driven world.Lindsey and Kat discuss:Teammate Connections: How relationships with teammates evolve when sharing the bond of college sports.Post-Grad Friendships: Navigating friendships once you're no longer working toward a shared athletic goal.Evaluating Friendships: Knowing which friendships bring you joy and deciding who to lean into versus who to lean out of.Social Media's Impact: Discussing how social media can shape your mental health and self-worth in relation to friendships.Making New Friends Post-College: Tips on building meaningful connections with like-minded people after school.Learn more about Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message here

In this episode, Kat sits down with Abby Bosco, a former lacrosse player at the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Maryland. Known for her powerful presence on defense, Abby was named the Athletes Unlimited 2023 Defender of the Year. Her accolades also include being a two-time IWLCA First Team All-Region pick, a Big Ten Defender of the Year, and a nominee for the Tewaaraton Award.Key Topics:1.Inspiration and Legacy: Abby hopes to inspire young girls in the lacrosse community to follow their dreams and find joy in what they do.2. Personal Growth Through Lacrosse: Abby reflects on how the sport has shaped her life by connecting her with incredible people and leading her to remarkable places. She emphasizes the importance of pursuing what brings genuine happiness, ignoring outside pressures, and focusing on one’s internal joy.3. Navigating Recruitment and Mental Health: Abby opens up about her journey through the recruitment process, her experience with the transfer portal, and her transition from Penn to Maryland. She also discusses the value of sports psychologists in her development as an athlete and a person, highlighting the significance of mental health support both on and off the field.You can connect with Abby here!You can follow Morgan’s Message hereYou can find out more about Morgan’s Message here

In this episode, Kat sits down with Capri Richardson, the founder of First Contact Athletic Counseling, PLLC, and a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate based in Austin, TX. Capri brings a unique perspective to mental health in sports, combining her experience as a former Division I athlete and professional volleyball player with her expertise in counseling. Capri shares her journey through athletics, from growing up in a military family and being recruited to the University of Montana, where she became the first African-American player on their Women’s Volleyball Team, to playing professionally in Europe.Capri’s passion for mental health advocacy emerged through her athletic journey and experiences abroad. Now in private practice, she focuses on providing athletes, coaches, and their families with support that nurtures their inner selves and fosters holistic well-being. Capri discusses the systemic challenges in sports, especially for female and minority athletes, and how she empowers her clients to develop coping skills, process trauma, and prioritize mental health.Get in touch with Capri here Follow Morgan’s Message hereLearn more about Morgan’s Message here

In this episode, Kat sits down with Camryn Whipple, a recent graduate of Slippery Rock University and former lacrosse player, to explore her athletic journey and her growing awareness of mental health. Camryn shares her early experiences in sports, from her first love of soccer to her spontaneous decision to try lacrosse in elementary school, and why she ultimately chose to pursue lacrosse in high school, leaving soccer and basketball behind. She opens up about the impact of COVID-19 on her senior year of high school and freshman year of college, and how the pandemic influenced her mental health. We also dive into her collegiate team’s open culture around mental health and how she’s now focusing on new passions as she transitions away from competitive athletics.In this episode, we discuss:Camryn’s journey from soccer to lacrosse and the decision to focus on lacrosseThe recruiting process and why she chose Slippery RockThe impact of COVID-19 on her athletic and mental health during her transition to collegeHow her college team created a supportive environment for mental health discussionsHer ongoing transition out of athletics and how she's utilizing her passion for other thingsAccepting that the emotions she’s feeling during her transition out of collegiate athletics are normal and how she's embracing the changeGet in touch with Camryn hereGet in touch with Morgan’s Message hereFollow Morgan’s Message on IG here