The Mentally Fit Athlete

In this solo episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete , I ( Dr. Jason von Stietz) return to answer a new batch of questions from high school sport psychology students. The conversation explores the modern stressors facing young athletes—from social media pressure to outcome-obsession —and provides technical strategies for building mental composure through mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral tools. The...

In this solo episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete , I ( Dr. Jason Von Stietz) answer a series of questions from high school students taking a sports psychology class. I share practical techniques for handling high-pressure moments, the importance of pre-game routines, and the role of therapy in an athlete's life. I also shares I stay motivated through diverse professional interests, ranging fro...

In this episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete , I ( Dr. Jason von Stietz) go solo to answer a fresh round of questions from high school student-athletes. I talk about psychological aspects of performance, offering practical tools for managing insomnia , distinguishing OCD from healthy routines, and using imaginal exposure to bridge the gap between practice and competition. Key Discussion Points The...

In this solo episode of The Mentally Fit Athlete , I (Dr. Jason von Stietz) answer questions from high school sport psychology students. Key Discussion Points A Day in the Life of a Psychologist: I discuss the variety in my career, which includes treating clinical issues like OCD and the "yips," using improv comedy to help teams communicate under pressure, and writing about leadership le...

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 com...

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 bala...

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 cha...

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 trainin...

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 trap...

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 Learn Understanding Pre-Workout Anxiety Impact of Social...

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 int...

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 M...

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 goin...

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 athletes Coping mechanisms post d...

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 sport Enjoyment versus performance pressure in sport Helping young athletes to avoid burnout Unique social and cultural pressures on female athletes How coaches can recognize the need f...

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! Ch...