Mind Your Game

Dr. Mat Park and Cydney Clanton (LPGA)

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Sport
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Mind Your Game is a podcast about building the inner strength to perform at your best in sport, business, and life. Each episode explores practical tools, real stories, and mindset strategies from high performers who know what it takes under pressure. www.drmatpark.com

24 Apr

The Slow Build: Why the Mental Game is Never a Moment

The Slow Build: Why the Mental Game is Never a Moment Dr. Mat and LPGA veteran-turned-performance coach Cydney Clanton discuss mental performance lessons drawn from recent Masters interviews, highlighting Cameron Young’s idea that handling pressure comes from a slow buildup of tools and confidence to stay present. They compare examples from Rory, Tommy Fleetwood, Tiger Woods, and Scottie Scheffler to explore perspective shifts under pressure, why athletes can tighten up when leading, and how success can trigger an “upper limit” ceiling that leads to self-sabotage. The episode emphasizes deliberate daily mental training, redefining success as progress and contention, managing nerves as normal, using committed swings to conservative targets, and shaping better self-talk through language (e.g., “improvements” vs. “bad”). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

28 min
10 Apr

The Psychology Behind a Masters Victory

On the Mind Your Game podcast, hosts Dustin Donner and Dr. Mat Park welcome pro golfer Cydney Clanton to discuss the Rory McIlroy Amazon Prime documentary, focusing on how Rory avoided spiraling after major mistakes and why recovery is trainable. They explore why putting carries extra pressure as the “finale” of each hole, how body language and sustainable confidence (chin up, shoulders back, eye line above the horizon) helped Rory, and how distractions like Masters scoreboards and crowd roars can be managed by focusing on controllables. Dr. Mat introduces the FACE pillars—focus, attitude, commitment, and effort—plus the value of grit and never quitting. Cydney explains why mental-game training is the fastest performance lever, helping in both slumps and success, and shares her own early-career experience of reaching a goal without clarity. They close with Masters winner picks: Ludvig Åberg, Tommy Fleetwood, and Max Homa.00:00 Rory Bounces Back00:40 Podcast Intro01:02 Rory Doc Pressures01:58 Why Putting Feels Final03:48 Wedge Mistakes and Media05:39 Built to Bounce Back07:14 Body Language and Confidence11:01 FACE Mental Game Plan17:03 Never Quit Grit Clip18:59 Player Reactions to Grit21:00 Love the Struggle Mindset22:46 Confidence vs Cocky24:42 Stop Complaining Start Grinding25:22 Why Mental Game Wins26:24 Tools For Slumps And Surges31:04 Visualization And Injury Prevention32:43 Winning Then What34:22 Syds LPGA Wake Up Call38:13 Clarity Over Panic Practice41:04 Masters Picks And Wrap Up This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

46 min
27 Feb

The Mental Game of an Agent

Who would sign up for a job where you have to pay upfront, not know if you’ll get reimbursed, grind all year long… and still might not make enough to keep your spot? Welcome back to the Mind Your Game Podcast. In this powerful episode, co-hosts Dustin Donner and Dr. Matt sit down with “Lefty Sophia” — former performer, licensed clinical dietician, late-life left-handed golfer, and now LPGA sports agent — for a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the mental and financial realities of professional golf. Sophia shares her unconventional journey: * Switching from righty to lefty in golf during COVID * Starting a brand-new career later in life * Navigating fear, rejection, and performance pressure * Supporting LPGA players who are grinding week-to-week just to break even This conversation goes far beyond golf. We dive into:The financial pressure of life on tourHow money stress impacts performanceThe emotional weight of representing athletesPerforming under pressure (on stage and on the course)The “Mama Bear” mindset of being an agentFear, rejection, and learning to accept both Sophia opens up about what it’s really like for professional golfers who: * Prepay travel, caddies, and tournament fees * Must make the cut just to break even * Risk losing their card if they don’t earn enough points * Carry family sacrifices on their shoulders This episode is about pressure — financial, mental, emotional — and what it takes to stay in the game when nothing is guaranteed. If you’re an athlete, parent, coach, entrepreneur, or anyone chasing something uncertain… this one will hit home. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

39 min
6 Feb

From Underdog to Champion: Lauren Coughlin’s journey on the LPGA Tour

In this episode of The Mind Your Game Podcast, host Dustin Donner sits down with veteran LPGA tour player Lauren Coughlin to discuss the mental side of athletics, business, and life. Lauren shares her recent victory at the Grant Thornton Invitational, her experiences on the LPGA tour, and how she deals with both success and adversity. From her beginnings as a walk-on at the University of Virginia to becoming a professional golfer, Lauren dives deep into staying mentally tough, setting realistic goals, and finding success beyond just winning tournaments. Whether you’re an aspiring athlete or just looking to improve your mental game, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:42 Lauren Coughlin’s Recent Victory 01:47 Celebrating Wins and Moving Forward 03:19 Mindset and Routine in Golf 06:04 The Challenges of Putting 11:59 Overcoming Adversity and Building Belief 18:10 Task-Oriented Practice and Structure 20:50 Working with Sports Psychologists 21:57 Managing Performance Anxiety 25:04 Balancing Golf and Personal Life 28:15 Reflecting on Success and Identity 30:39 The Importance of Support Systems 32:32 Defining Success and Setting Goals 35:47 Team Dynamics and Mental Toughness 37:48 Underdog Mentality and Self-Belief 40:27 Looking Back and Moving Forward This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

42 min
23 Jan

Finding PEACE and Play - Kate's Journey on the LPGA Tour

In this episode of the Mind Your Game podcast, co-hosts Dustin Donner and Dr. Mat sit down with LPGA player Kate Smith-Stroh to discuss the emotional and professional challenges of life on the tour. Kate shares candid insights about her recent experiences at the Q series, coping mechanisms for handling pressure, and the importance of maintaining joy and authenticity in golf and life. She also reflects on her growth over the past year, offers advice for aspiring young golfers, and talks about her creative pursuits off the course. Join us for a deep dive into the world of professional golf and the mental resilience it demands. 00:00 Introduction and Overcoming Losses 00:31 Q Series Experience 02:07 Welcome to the Podcast 02:26 Charity Event in Texas 03:23 Reflecting on the 2025 Season 04:17 Growth Moments and Confidence 07:27 Belonging on the LPGA Tour 09:54 Playing with Fear and Anxiety 17:18 Balancing Golf and Graphic Design 19:56 Goals for 2026 24:30 Reflecting on Tour Moments 26:09 Advice for Aspiring Athletes 28:23 Handling Losses and Q Series Experience 31:29 Finding Peace and Moving Forward 33:47 Balancing Play and Professionalism 39:27 Looking Ahead and Embracing Creativity 44:18 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

46 min
9 Jan

Building a Resilient Athletic Culture

Building a Resilient Athletic Culture: Insights from Athletic Director Scott Larson In this episode of The Mind Your Game podcast, host Dustin Donner welcomes Scott Larson, Athletic Director at UTPB, to discuss the role of resilience in student-athletes, the impact of parental involvement, and the unique aspects of Division II athletics. Scott Larson shares his journey from starting college on a music scholarship to becoming an Athletic Director, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive culture in athletic programs. He highlights the significance of setting standards, accountability, and the need for athletes to take ownership of their development. Larson also provides practical advice for student-athletes and their parents on navigating the recruiting process. Tune in for valuable insights into building a strong athletic department and fostering resilience in student-athletes. 00:00 Introduction: Resilience in Athletes 00:43 Meet Scott Larson: Athletic Director of UTPB 01:13 Scott’s Journey in Athletics 03:55 The Appeal of Division II Athletics 06:51 Creating a Positive Athletic Culture 10:58 Challenges and Rewards of Coaching 23:24 Parental Influence on Student Athletes 29:01 Balancing Work and Personal Life 33:51 Conclusion: Building a Supportive Environment This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

34 min
26/12/2025

Mind Your Game Podcast Ep. 6 | Sadie Englemann - A Rookie's Journey

Join Dustin Donner on The Mind Your Game podcast as he interviews Epson tour player Sadie Engleman. In this engaging episode, Sadie shares her journey from college golf at Stanford to her first year as a professional. Listen as Sadie discusses the importance of balancing life and golf, how she manages the pressures of professional tournaments, and the mental shift that helped her play her best golf. Learn about her support system, managing off-seasons, handling failures, and the crucial piece of advice she has for youth athletes aspiring to reach the next level. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:28 Life as a Professional Golfer 05:15 Transition from College to Professional Golf 12:51 Support System and Mental Health 25:39 Financial Realities of Professional Golf 27:29 Passion and Motivation in Golf 36:18 Advice for Aspiring Athletes 40:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

42 min
12/12/2025

Mind Your Game Podcast Ep. 5 | Grace van der Byl - Meet The Moment

In this episode of The Mind Your Game podcast, co-hosts Dustin Donner and Dr. Mat are joined by special guest Grace van der Byl, a world-record-holding long-distance swimmer. Grace shares her exhilarating journey of swimming from Catalina to San Pedro and breaking records, only to face life-threatening challenges like stepping on a sea urchin and contracting MRSA. Grace delves into the mental toughness required for open water swimming, the significance of staying present, and her unique relationship with fear. She also discusses her major setbacks, including a near-death experience, and how they shaped her resilience and performance. Grace highlights the importance of owning one’s path, having a reliable support system, and maintaining accountability. The episode wraps up with insight into her relationship with Vito and an endorsement of Caddy Snacks, the official sponsor of the podcast. Perfect for athletes and anyone interested in high performance and mental fortitude, this episode offers invaluable lessons on pushing limits and achieving greatness. 00:00 Record-Breaking Swim and Unexpected Hospital Visit 00:30 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:57 Grace’s Training Environment and Community 03:09 The Mental Game in Sports 05:46 Facing Fear in Open Water Swimming 10:33 Embracing Challenges and Authentic Self 14:13 Handling Setbacks and Learning from Failure 22:41 Reframing Weakness and Continuing the Journey 26:04 Hallucinations and Hypothermia 27:13 Tropical Storm Hits Manhattan Swim 28:38 Near-Death Experience and Reflection 30:14 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 31:59 Winning the Manhattan Swim 33:13 The Importance of Accountability 35:51 Meeting Vito and Night Train 40:40 Advice for Youth Athletes 47:17 Final Thoughts and Mentorship This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

49 min
28/11/2025

Mind Your Game Podcast Ep. 4 | Chelsea Bialla - A Family's Journey to Fuel Golfers

In this episode of the Mind Your Game podcast, co-founder of Caddy Snacks, Chelsea Bialla, joins us to discuss the journey of building the brand with her family. Chelsea shares how her father’s vision and veteran background inspired Caddy Snacks and highlights the emotional and entrepreneurial aspects of their journey. Delve into the importance of grit, adaptability, and setting realistic expectations as an entrepreneur. Discover the unique health benefits of Caddy Snacks, their future vision for the brand, and how they aim to provide golfers with optimal nutrition. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on family, business, and innovation in the golf nutrition space. 00:00 The Heartwarming Origin of Caddy Snacks 01:14 Welcome to Mind Your Game Podcast 01:46 The Grind of Building a New Brand 02:37 The Importance of Grit and Team Support 03:39 A Family of Extreme Athletes and Entrepreneurs 05:15 Identifying a Unique Market Opportunity in Golf 07:25 The Challenges and Rewards of a Niche Market 10:20 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Personal Life 16:02 The Nutritional Benefits of Caddy Snacks 17:15 The Power of L-Theanine 17:42 Nootropics and Their Benefits 18:54 Caddy Snacks: A Superfood Bar 19:35 Educating Consumers on Nootropics 21:09 The Vision for Caddy Snacks 22:41 Tips for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 27:14 The Emotional Journey of Caddy Snacks 31:11 Live from Florida: Expanding Horizons 32:54 Conclusion and Farewell This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

34 min
14/11/2025

Mind Your Game Podcast: Episode 3 - Why we do What we do

In this episode of The Mind Your Game Podcast, hosts Dustin Donner and Dr. Mat Park explore the importance of discovering your ‘why’ and identifying guiding principles that shape your life and career. Dr. Mat shares his personal journey from aspiring professional golfer to coach, revealing how his core values led him to his true calling. The episode includes an insightful exercise on mind mapping to help listeners identify their top core values and offers advice on staying true to them amid life’s challenges. Tune in to uncover how these principles can guide you toward a more authentic and fulfilling life. 00:00 Overcoming Intimidation: My Journey in Golf 01:29 Welcome to The Mind Your Game Podcast 01:47 Discovering Your ‘Why’ and Core Values 03:30 A Personal Story: Guiding Principles in Action 05:06 The Turning Point: Embracing Authenticity 15:39 Mind Mapping Exercise: Identifying Core Values 21:11 The Importance of Integrity and Honesty 24:15 Building Confidence Through Guiding Principles 25:10 Dustin’s Journey: From Athlete to Coach 29:34 The Power of Boundaries and Generosity 37:02 Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

39 min
31/10/2025

Mind Your Game Podcast: Episode 2 with Cydney Clanton

Mind Your Game Podcast Ep. 2: Cydney Clanton - Journey, Challenges & Mental Toughness in Golf Welcome to episode two of the Mind Your Game Podcast! In this episode, host Dustin Donner sits down with 14-year LPGA Tour veteran Cydney Clanton. With one career win, nine top 10 finishes, and 27 top 25 career finishes, Cydney shares her journey from deciding to be a professional golfer in sixth grade to navigating the highs and lows of her career. Listen as she discusses the importance of mental toughness, the role of a strong support system, and how she transitioned to helping others through her new venture with MPGA. This episode is packed with valuable insights for junior golfers, collegiate players, and anyone interested in the mental and strategic aspects of the game. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 01:20 Cydney Clanton’s Early Golf Journey 02:43 College Years and Professional Debut 03:02 Challenges and Triumphs on the LPGA Tour 13:35 The Role of Mental Strength in Golf 20:04 Building a Support System 27:25 Building a Belief System Beyond Results 30:10 The Importance of Trust in Golf 31:27 Advice for Junior Golfers: Setting Clear Goals 34:56 Introducing the MPGA Venture 35:21 The Role of Evaluation in Performance 37:33 Creating a Comprehensive Training System 47:56 Empowering Golfers with Tools and Techniques 52:31 Final Thoughts and Legacy This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

55 min
06/10/2025

Mind Your Game Podcast Ep. 1 | Overcoming Expectations and Ryder Cup Insights

Mind Your Game Podcast Ep. 1 | Overcoming Expectations and Ryder Cup Insights Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Mind Your Game Podcast, hosted by mental performance coach Dustin Donner and sport psychologist Dr. Mat Park. In this episode, Dustin and Dr. Mat introduce themselves and discuss the mental aspects of golf and life lessons that can be drawn from sports. They dive deep into the recent Ryder Cup, addressing how athletes manage external and internal expectations, the role of team chemistry, and the importance of mental preparation. The episode also features insights about handling high-pressure situations and maintaining focus amid distractions. Additionally, they highlight the potential benefits of having experienced team-building leaders like Coach K or Nick Saban as Ryder Cup captains. Tune in for a deep discussion on mastering the mental game, both on and off the course. 00:00 Welcome to Mind Your Game Podcast 00:07 Meet Your Hosts: Dustin and Dr. Mat 00:35 The Intersection of Sports and Life 02:01 Diving into the Ryder Cup 05:16 Handling Expectations and Pressure 24:55 The Power of Team Chemistry 29:25 Shoutout to Our Sponsor: Caddy Snacks 31:07 Looking Ahead to 2027 Ryder Cup 36:54 Closing Thoughts and Community Invitation To watch the full episode: Click Below This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.drmatpark.com/subscribe

41 min

12 Episodes

Mind Your Game is a podcast about building the inner strength to perform at your best in sport, business, and life. Each episode explores practical tools, real stories, and mindset strategies from high performers who know what it takes under pressure. www.drmatpark.com

Creator

Dr. Mat Park and Cydney Clanton (LPGA)
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

12
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Dr. Mat Park
Show Website

Mind Your Game