The Myth of “Mental Toughness”
The Myth of “Mental Toughness”: Why “Just Be Tougher” Doesn’t Work TL;DR Telling athletes to “just be tougher” doesn’t build mental skills; it just piles on shame and confusion. Real …
Dear Athlete, Take a Break!
Take a Break from Sports: Dear Athlete, It’s OK to Rest TL;DR: The season is over. You’re tired. And yes, it’s more than OK to take a break from sports, …
Select Logical Fallacies Series: Appeal to Authority
Just Because They Said It, Doesn’t Mean It’s Right Welcome back to the Logical Fallacies in Youth Sports series. If you’re new here, we’re breaking down the most common reasoning …
Select Logical Fallacies Series: The Anecdotal Fallacy
Anecdotes Aren’t Evidence A Logical Fallacies in Youth Sports Blog Series Post This post is part of our ongoing series on logical fallacies and how they sneak into youth sports …
Rethinking Coaching Habits in Youth Sports
TL;DR: Youth sports coaching needs an update. We don’t have to throw the whole system out, but it’s time to rethink outdated habits. We need more empathy, adaptability, and real …
Logical Fallacies Series: The Loaded Question
Loaded Question in Youth Sports: How This Fallacy Derails Coaching Conversations This post is part of my ongoing series on logical fallacies in youth sports and athlete development. If you …
When It’s Time to Rewrite the Story
When It’s Time to Rewrite Your Story in Coaching and Life There is a funny thing about the stories we tell ourselves. We love them. We need them. Sometimes, without …
A Conversation with Nicole Christner (Ep. 047)
Episode 047 | A Conversation with Coach Nicole – Life Pivots, Coaching Philosophy, and Embracing Growth | June 2025 In this episode of The MentalCast, host Dan Mickle interviews …
College Volleyball and the Blessing of Breathing Room
College Volleyball and the Blessing of Breathing Room TL;DR:The college volleyball experience stands out not because it’s easier, but because it offers space, ownership, and balance; a contrast to the …
Logical Fallacies Series: Personal Incredulity
Personal Incredulity Fallacy is alive and well in youth sports. You see it every time a coach, parent, or club leader dismisses an idea with a shrug and a quick, …