The Mentally Fit Athlete

Lidia Garcia, MSW and Jason von Stietz, PhD
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  • MENTAL HEALTH

The Mentally Fit Athlete is hosted by Lidia Garcia, MSW and Dr. Jason von Stietz. We discuss the mental side of sport and performance. Each episode is an informal open conversation filled with practical takeaways useful for coaches, athletes, and anyone interested in performance and wellbeing.

Episodes

  1. 11/20/2025

    Life After the Final Whistle: Navigating the Transition Out of Sport

    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 grief How identity loss, frustration, and uncertainty can show up—sometimes unexpectedly Real stories of athletes blindsided by the emotional weight of transition How sudden injuries can create grief, anger, and a sense of “what could have been” Why missed competitions and derailed goals can hit harder than expected The social and psychological consequences of time away from teammates Why having an athletic identity isn’t the problem When identity becomes too tied to performance How diversifying identity helps athletes heal, grow, and take healthy time off Jason and Lidia outline strategies including: Building multiple sources of identity and meaning Expanding social networks beyond the team Maintaining perspective on long-term health over short-term competition Recognizing and leveraging the transferable skills developed through sport—leadership, resilience, communication, discipline, and more Exploring recreation leagues, new sports, hybrid competitions, and personal fitness challenges How athletes can carry their competitive spirit into work, relationships, and life goals Whether 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.g Find 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

    21 min

  2. 11/06/2025

    Mental Reps Matter: How Visualization Keeps You Game-Ready

    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 is The PETTLEP model for effective imagery How visualization impacts confidence and motor learning Using imagery to prepare for unpredictable competition conditions The neuroscience behind why visualization works Applying mental rehearsal to academics and everyday performance Find Us: Dr. Jason von Stietz: drjasonvonstietz.com | @cbtsportspsych Lidia 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.

    22 min

  3. 09/27/2025

    How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Opponents and Improve 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.runclub⁠⁠ Dr. Jason von Stietz• Website: ⁠⁠drjasonvonstietz.com⁠⁠• Instagram: ⁠⁠@cbtsportpsych⁠⁠• Bluesky: @⁠cbtsportpsych

    23 min

  4. 04/21/2025

    Coping with Pre-Workout Anxiety: Mental Strategies for Endurance Athletes

    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 AnxietyImpact of Social Apps on Athlete StressHaving your mission in mind as an athleteJournaling, Therapy & Support Systems Featured Resources & Links: Lidia Garcia, MSW• Website: ⁠lidiagarcia.net⁠• Instagram: ⁠@liddie.g⁠• Pasadena Run Club: ⁠@pasadena.runclub⁠ Dr. Jason von Stietz• Website: ⁠drjasonvonstietz.com⁠• Instagram: ⁠@cbtsportpsych⁠• Bluesky: @cbtsportpsych

    21 min

  5. 03/31/2025

    Overcoming Race: Day Hurdles: Medical Psychology at the LA Marathon

    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.runclub Dr. Jason von Stietz • Website: drjasonvonstietz.com • Instagram: @cbtsportpsych • Bluesky: @cbtsportpsych Why 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.

    39 min

  6. 03/17/2025

    Bouncing Back: How Athletes Overcome Setbacks and Refocus Under Pressure

    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, MSW Website: lidiagarcia.netInstagram: @liddie.gPasadena Run Club: @pasadena.runclub Dr. Jason von Stietz Website: drjasonvonstietz.comInstagram: @cbtsportpsychBluesky: @cbtsportpsych Tune 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.

    32 min

  7. 03/10/2025

    Clinical sport psychology insights: Team vs. individual sports

    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.g https://www.instagram.com/pasadena.runclub/ Check out Dr. Jason von Stietz's website: www.drjasonvonstietz.com Follow Dr. Jason on social media: Check out my new website! https://www.drjasonvonstietz.com Follow Dr. Jason on social media: https://www.instagram.com/cbtsportpsych https://bsky.app/profile/cbtsportpsych.bsky.social Why 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!

    27 min

  8. 03/03/2025

    Recovering from the Southern California wildfires: Mental health, training, and community support

    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 resources Check out Lidia Garcia, MSW website: https://lidiagarcia.net/ Follow Lidia on social media: https://www.instagram.com/liddie.g https://www.instagram.com/pasadena.runclub/ Check out Dr. Jason von Stietz's website: www.drjasonvonstietz.com Follow Dr. Jason on social media: Check out my new website! https://www.drjasonvonstietz.com Follow Dr. Jason on social media: https://www.instagram.com/cbtsportpsych https://bsky.app/profile/cbtsportpsych.bsky.social

    39 min

  9. 02/24/2025

    Coaching with care: Recognizing and supporting athlete mental health

    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 athletes Check out Lidia Garcia, MSW website: https://lidiagarcia.net/ Follow Lidia on social media: https://www.instagram.com/liddie.g https://www.instagram.com/pasadena.runclub/ Check out Dr. Jason von Stietz's website: www.drjasonvonstietz.com Follow Dr. Jason on social media: Check out my new website! https://www.drjasonvonstietz.com Follow Dr. Jason on social media: https://www.instagram.com/cbtsportpsych https://bsky.app/profile/cbtsportpsych.bsky.social

    32 min

  10. 02/16/2025

    Debunking sport psychology myths: Will therapy make you lose your competitive edge

    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.g https://www.instagram.com/pasadena.runclub/ Check out Dr. Jason von Stietz's website: www.drjasonvonstietz.com Follow Dr. Jason on social media: Check out my new website! https://www.drjasonvonstietz.com Follow Dr. Jason on social media: https://www.instagram.com/cbtsportpsych https://bsky.app/profile/cbtsportpsych.bsky.social

    26 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

The Mentally Fit Athlete is hosted by Lidia Garcia, MSW and Dr. Jason von Stietz. We discuss the mental side of sport and performance. Each episode is an informal open conversation filled with practical takeaways useful for coaches, athletes, and anyone interested in performance and wellbeing.

Information

  • Creator
    Lidia Garcia, MSW and Jason von Stietz, PhD
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Lidia Garcia, MSW and Jason von Stietz, PhD
  • Show Website
    The Mentally Fit Athlete