The Mentally Fit Athlete

In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete, we explore how finding your “why” can make or break your consistency in sport and fitness.From busy adult athletes balancing work, school, and family to runners training for their next race, they discuss how clarifying your values, setting meaningful goals, and building community can help you stay motivated over the long term.They also break down common pitfalls—like relying on willpower alone, ignoring recovery, or chasing the wrong goals—and highlight the importance of enjoyment, proper fueling, and realistic expectations.If you’ve ever struggled to stay consistent or felt stuck in a love–hate relationship with training, this episode will help you reconnect with your purpose and build a routine that actually lasts.Dr. Jason von StietzWebsite: ⁠drjasonvonstietz.com⁠Instagram: ⁠@CBTSportsPsych⁠Lydia GarciaWebsite: ⁠LydiaGarcia.netLike, subscribe, and share with a teammate or friend who needs help finding their “why.”

In this behind-the-scenes episode, we reconnect after a break to reflect on why we started The Mentally Fit Athlete and where the podcast is headed next. What begins as a casual conversation turns into a thoughtful exploration of purpose, creativity, and how mental performance principles—like knowing your “why”—apply not just to athletes, but to their own work as podcast hosts.We discuss the balance between structure and spontaneity, the role of curiosity in learning, and how the podcast can evolve to better serve athletes, performers, and anyone striving to be mentally fit in everyday life.1. The Importance of “Why”Just like athletes need a clear “why” to stay motivated, creators benefit from reconnecting with their purpose.For both of us, the podcast is driven by creativity, connection, and a desire to make helpful information accessible.2. Making Mental Skills AccessibleThe show aims to provide practical, evidence-informed insights for people who may not otherwise have access to sport psychology resources.Mental performance skills aren’t just for elite athletes—they apply to students, performers, and everyday challenges.3. Expanding the Definition of “Athlete”The conversation highlights how mental performance applies across domains:Traditional sportsPerforming arts (dance, theater)Academic and competitive settings (debate, testing)The “mentally fit athlete” includes anyone striving to perform under pressure.4. Future Format IdeasWe explore potential structures for upcoming episodes, including:Educational segments: Breaking down the science (e.g., anxiety, routines, performance mindset)Listener Q&A: Addressing real-world questions from athletesCurrent events in sport: Reflecting on trends and their psychological impact5. Balancing Structure and AuthenticityA more structured format can help listeners know what to expect.At the same time, the podcast will continue to embrace a conversational, improvisational style rooted in curiosity and authenticity.6. Learning in PublicThe podcast is not just about teaching—it’s also a space for ongoing learning.Researching topics, responding to questions, and exploring new ideas helps both hosts grow alongside their audience.7. Barriers to Creating (and How to Move Through Them)The realities of content creation come up, including:Time constraintsPerfectionism and “cringe factor”Social media fatigueA key mindset shift: focus on creating valuable content first, rather than chasing trends or metrics.8. Consistency Over PerfectionProgress comes from showing up consistently, even when the audience is small.Early content doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to exist.We share several ideas for the future of the podcast:More consistent episode releasesShort-form content (e.g., Q&A clips, YouTube Shorts)Potential guest interviews with coaches, athletes, and professionalsWritten content (e.g., articles or newsletters) connected to podcast topicsThe possibility of workshops, talks, or even a future bookNIL deals and their impact on athlete experienceLifelong athletic identity and participationWomen in sport and performance across the lifespanThe mental side of competing at any ageHow culture and society shape performance opportunitiesThis episode serves as a reset and a recommitment—to the process, to the audience, and to the idea that being “mentally fit” is an ongoing practice. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, performer, or simply someone navigating challenges, the goal remains the same: show up, stay curious, and keep building skills that help you perform and live well.Dr. Jason von StietzWebsite: drjasonvonstietz.comInstagram: @CBTSportsPsychLydia GarciaWebsite: LydiaGarcia.net🎧 If you’ve been following the podcast, thanks for sticking with us—and if you’re new, this is a great place to start. More episodes coming soon.

In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete, we explore one of the most overlooked phases of the athletic journey—transitioning out of sport. Whether an athlete is graduating, retiring, changing levels of competition, or sidelined by injury, the end of a season or career can bring unexpected emotional, psychological, and social challenges.Jason and Lidia discuss:Why ending a long athletic chapter can feel like griefHow identity loss, frustration, and uncertainty can show up—sometimes unexpectedlyReal stories of athletes blindsided by the emotional weight of transitionHow sudden injuries can create grief, anger, and a sense of “what could have been”Why missed competitions and derailed goals can hit harder than expectedThe social and psychological consequences of time away from teammatesWhy having an athletic identity isn’t the problemWhen identity becomes too tied to performanceHow diversifying identity helps athletes heal, grow, and take healthy time offJason and Lidia outline strategies including:Building multiple sources of identity and meaningExpanding social networks beyond the teamMaintaining perspective on long-term health over short-term competitionRecognizing and leveraging the transferable skills developed through sport—leadership, resilience, communication, discipline, and moreExploring recreation leagues, new sports, hybrid competitions, and personal fitness challengesHow athletes can carry their competitive spirit into work, relationships, and life goalsWhether you're a high school senior, a college athlete, a parent, or a coach supporting athletes through major transitions, this episode provides insight, validation, and practical tools for navigating one of the most complex moments in the athletic lifespan.Find Lidia: LidiaGarcia.net | @liddie.gFind Jason: DrJasonvonStietz.com | @CBTSportsPsych on Instagram and Blue Sky🔹 The Emotional Impact of Transition🔹 Injuries and Abrupt Endings🔹 Athletic Identity: Helpful or Harmful?🔹 Protecting Mental Health During Transitions🔹 Staying Active and Competitive—Just Differently

In this episode, we answer a great question from a high school sport psychology class:“What role does visualization play in improving athletic performance, and how can athletes use it effectively?”We break down how mental imagery—also known as visualization or mental rehearsal—can help athletes reduce anxiety, boost confidence, and fine-tune their skills even when they’re not physically training. Lydia introduces the PETTLEP model (Physical, Environment, Task, Timing, Learning, Emotion, Perspective) to help athletes make their visualizations more vivid and effective.Jason discusses how visualization strengthens neural pathways related to performance, helps athletes prepare for unpredictable situations, and supports recovery from injury or limited practice time. We also touch on the difference between positive visualization and magical thinking, emphasizing how imagery complements physical training rather than replacing it.Whether you’re a student-athlete, coach, or mental performance enthusiast, this episode provides a practical framework for using visualization to train your brain for game day.Key Topics:What visualization (mental rehearsal) really isThe PETTLEP model for effective imageryHow visualization impacts confidence and motor learningUsing imagery to prepare for unpredictable competition conditionsThe neuroscience behind why visualization worksApplying mental rehearsal to academics and everyday performanceFind Us:Dr. Jason von Stietz: drjasonvonstietz.com | @cbtsportspsychLidia Garcia: lidiagarcia.net | @liddie.g🎙️ Subscribe to The Mentally Fit Athlete on your favorite podcast platform for more conversations on the intersection of mental health and peak performance.

What happens when an opponent becomes bigger than the game? In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete, we field a question from a high-school sports psychology class: how do admiration or animosity toward an opponent affect performance? Jason explains the value of focusing on controllables—your preparation, routine, breathing and mindset—while Lydia offers practical ways to avoid comparison traps (yes, we mean athlete stat sites and highlight reels). We share an inspiring story about using a tough opponent as a confidence-builder, offer a three-question self-reflection template to untangle emotions from identity or cultural pressure, and remind athletes of a simple but powerful truth: get back to having fun.Featured Resources & Links:Lidia Garcia, MSW• Website: ⁠⁠lidiagarcia.net⁠⁠• Instagram: ⁠⁠@liddie.g⁠⁠• Pasadena Run Club: ⁠⁠@pasadena.runclub⁠⁠Dr. Jason von Stietz• Website: ⁠⁠drjasonvonstietz.com⁠⁠• Instagram: ⁠⁠@cbtsportpsych⁠⁠• Bluesky: @⁠cbtsportpsych

In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete, a Los Angeles running coach asks: “How can athletes manage pre-workout anxiety?” Dr. Jason von Stietz and Lidia Garcia, MSW share simple, science-backed mental tools to help runners and endurance athletes cultivate confidence, focus, and a growth-oriented mindset before every workout.What You’ll LearnUnderstanding Pre-Workout AnxietyImpact of Social Apps on Athlete StressHaving your mission in mind as an athleteJournaling, Therapy & Support SystemsFeatured Resources & Links:Lidia Garcia, MSW• Website: ⁠lidiagarcia.net⁠• Instagram: ⁠@liddie.g⁠• Pasadena Run Club: ⁠@pasadena.runclub⁠Dr. Jason von Stietz• Website: ⁠drjasonvonstietz.com⁠• Instagram: ⁠@cbtsportpsych⁠• Bluesky: @cbtsportpsych

In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete, listeners get an in-depth look at the mental and physical challenges of the Los Angeles Marathon. Dr. Jason von Stietz shares his firsthand experience being a part of the very first medical psychology team integrated into the LA Marathon’s medical tents. Lidia Garcia, MSW, a seasoned runner and sport psychology practitioner, shares valuable insights into the real-world applications of mental training in endurance sports.Key Topics Explored:Medical Psychology’s Impact: The episode examines how specialized psychological support is changing marathon care.Innovative Medical Tents: Insights into groundbreaking strategies and operations that are redefining race-day medical support.Sport Psychology in Practice: A deep dive into the mental hurdles athletes face and the actionable strategies to overcome them.On-the-Spot Runner Support: A look at the immediate solutions provided to athletes in the thick of the race.Overcoming Adversity: Strategies for bouncing back from setbacks and injuries.Emotional Resilience: How athletes manage the emotional impacts of injuries and maintain long-term health.Inclusivity in Marathons: Efforts to make marathons more accessible and supportive for everyone.Community and Festivity: Celebrating the unifying spirit and vibrant atmosphere that characterizes marathon events.The Rise of Psychological Support: An exploration of the growing role of mental training in endurance sports.Featured Resources & Links:Lidia Garcia, MSW• Website: lidiagarcia.net• Instagram: @liddie.g• Pasadena Run Club: @pasadena.runclubDr. Jason von Stietz• Website: drjasonvonstietz.com• Instagram: @cbtsportpsych• Bluesky: @cbtsportpsychWhy Listen?This episode is a must-listen for marathoners, road racers, and endurance athletes of all kinds. By delving into topics like effective support systems, adaptation strategies, and the practical applications of mental toughness, the discussion offers listeners a roadmap for overcoming setbacks and thriving both in sport and in life.Tune in to hear how innovative mental strategies and first-hand experiences can empower athletes to elevate their performance and conquer their next challenge.

In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete, we dive into how athletes can bounce back from setbacks using proven psychological strategies and mental skills. Discover expert insights into refocusing under pressure, stopping negative spirals, and building resilience in sports.What You’ll Learn:Refocusing After Setbacks: Practical methods for athletes to regain focus after a setback.Overcoming Mental Challenges: Explore common obstacles in maintaining concentration and how to tackle them.Stopping Negative Spirals: Mental skills designed to break the cycle of self-doubt and anxiety.Ken Ravizza’s Pressure Techniques: Learn about Ken Ravizza’s approach to handling pressure in high-stakes moments.The Yellow Light Analogy: Understand how a simple analogy can transform your mindset in sports.Effective Breathing Techniques: Breathing exercises tailored for athletes to enhance performance.Visualization for Preparation: Strategies for using visualization to mentally prepare for competition.Stages of Competency in Mental Skills: Identify and master the different levels of mental skills development.Resources & Links:Lidia Garcia, MSWWebsite: lidiagarcia.netInstagram: @liddie.gPasadena Run Club: @pasadena.runclubDr. Jason von StietzWebsite: drjasonvonstietz.comInstagram: @cbtsportpsychBluesky: @cbtsportpsychTune in for an in-depth discussion that equips you with the mental tools to elevate your athletic performance and overcome setbacks effectively. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or sports enthusiast, these insights will empower you to build a resilient and focused mindset.Why Listen?This episode offers valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and sport enthusiasts seeking to enhance mental resilience and performance. From exploring how mentality shifts in team versus individual sports to uncovering strategies for conflict resolution and effective communication, our experts provide practical advice rooted in real-world experience. Tune in to learn how to build a robust support system, adapt to new challenges, and thrive both on and off the field.

In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete, we dive into a question from a high school sport psychology class: How do mentalities differ between individual and team sports? We break down the unique psychological challenges and benefits of each athletic environment.We talk about:Team vs. Individual Sports: Discover how the mental approaches vary when competing in a team setting compared to going solo.Effective Communication & Adaptability: Learn why these skills are crucial for success in sports.Managing Pressure in Individual Sports: Understand the specific stresses faced by solo athletes.Running: A Blend of Social and Individual Dynamics: Explore how running can be both a personal and community-driven activity.Conflict Resolution & Mental Health: Gain insights into managing conflicts on and off the field while maintaining optimal mental well-being.Weightlifting Wisdom: Hear expert advice on being an excellent training partner.Community Building in Track and Field: See how strong support networks can boost performance.Support Systems for Individual Athletes: Get practical strategies to build and maintain a robust support system.Check out Lidia Garcia, MSW website:https://lidiagarcia.net/Follow Lidia on social media:https://www.instagram.com/liddie.ghttps://www.instagram.com/pasadena.runclub/Check out Dr. Jason von Stietz's website:www.drjasonvonstietz.comFollow Dr. Jason on social media:Check out my new website!https://www.drjasonvonstietz.comFollow Dr. Jason on social media:https://www.instagram.com/cbtsportpsychhttps://bsky.app/profile/cbtsportpsych.bsky.socialWhy Listen?Whether you’re an athlete or a coach, this episode offers valuable insights into sport psychology that can help improve performance and mental resilience. Tune in now to enhance your understanding of athletic mentalities and elevate your game!

In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete, hosts we dive into the complex interplay between athletic performance and mental health following natural disasters such as the recent Southern California wildfires. We explore how athletes, coaches, and communities can adapt, heal, and thrive when faced with unexpected disruptions.We talk about:Impact of Wildfires on athletesCoping mechanisms post disasterCommunity support and advocacySurvivors guilt and resourcesCheck out Lidia Garcia, MSW website:https://lidiagarcia.net/Follow Lidia on social media:https://www.instagram.com/liddie.ghttps://www.instagram.com/pasadena.runclub/Check out Dr. Jason von Stietz's website:www.drjasonvonstietz.comFollow Dr. Jason on social media:Check out my new website!https://www.drjasonvonstietz.comFollow Dr. Jason on social media:https://www.instagram.com/cbtsportpsychhttps://bsky.app/profile/cbtsportpsych.bsky.social

We explore the world of athlete mental health- on and off the field. We discuss the pressures athletes face and the essential support structures for long-term well-being. We talk about:Athlete mental health beyond sportEnjoyment versus performance pressure in sportHelping young athletes to avoid burnoutUnique social and cultural pressures on female athletesHow coaches can recognize the need for mental health support for athletesCoaches’ role in athlete mental healthFinancial stress and mental health impact on athletesCheck out Lidia Garcia, MSW website:https://lidiagarcia.net/Follow Lidia on social media:https://www.instagram.com/liddie.ghttps://www.instagram.com/pasadena.runclub/Check out Dr. Jason von Stietz's website:www.drjasonvonstietz.comFollow Dr. Jason on social media:Check out my new website!https://www.drjasonvonstietz.comFollow Dr. Jason on social media:https://www.instagram.com/cbtsportpsychhttps://bsky.app/profile/cbtsportpsych.bsky.social

Is sport 80% mental? Is sport psychology for the mentally weak? Will therapy make you lose your competitive edge? Will sport psychology make me a champion? Isn't sport psychology just common sense? Isn't talent something you're either born with or without? In our first episode, we dispel myths that are holding back athletes from performing their best and enjoying their sport. Let's get started!Check out Lidia Garcia, MSW website:https://lidiagarcia.net/Follow Lidia on social media:https://www.instagram.com/liddie.ghttps://www.instagram.com/pasadena.runclub/Check out Dr. Jason von Stietz's website:www.drjasonvonstietz.comFollow Dr. Jason on social media:Check out my new website!https://www.drjasonvonstietz.comFollow Dr. Jason on social media:https://www.instagram.com/cbtsportpsychhttps://bsky.app/profile/cbtsportpsych.bsky.social