Brain In The Game Sport Mind Coaching Podcast

Dave Diggle
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Sports

Brain in the Game explores the mental aspect of training and competing at an elite level of sport. We’re all aware of the traditional role of a physical coach – people who work with the bodies of athletes – mind coaching (or mental coaching) focuses on the brain and the cognitive area of an athlete, working with them on their strategies, their structure and their emotional welfare. Brain in the Game is designed for athletes, coaches, parents and crew as we unpack and understand what it takes to thrive as an elite athlete. In each episode we will examine a different facet of sport from the perspective of the mind, covering interviews with some of the top athletes on the circuit and asking them what’s working for them now and what they’re looking at doing in the future. We talk to coaches and gain a better understanding of the changing face of professional coaching. We also delve into biomechanics and understand the different dynamics of the integration of those in professional sport. Some of the techniques discussed will be time-tested and others will be cutting-edge. Brain In The Game provides a practical insight to the mental 'mind-field' of elite sport and demonstrates how a strong mental programme can make all the difference to an athlete’s results.

  1. 106: Why There Is No Silver Bullet in High Performance – Why Process, Collaboration and Stability Beat the Quick Fix

    Feb 16

    106: Why There Is No Silver Bullet in High Performance – Why Process, Collaboration and Stability Beat the Quick Fix

    High performance has no shortcut. There is no single tactic, hack, or 'one thing' that guarantees elite results.If you’re chasing a quick fix, you may be weakening the very platform you’re trying to strengthen. In Brain in the Game Episode 106, Dave Diggle unpacks why the search for a silver bullet is one of the most common traps in sport and leadership. When pressure rises, uncertainty increases, and fear creeps in, it’s natural to look for certainty. We want the missing piece. The adjustment that changes everything. But elite performance doesn’t work that way. We break down the pillar model of high performance and explain why sustainable success is built on aligned systems, not isolated improvements. From physical preparation and technical consistency to mental frameworks, cognitive capacity and emotional resilience, every component must operate at a high and stable standard. We explore: Why the 'one thing' mindset is driven by fear, not strategy How over-investing in one area creates instability elsewhere What 'robbing Peter to pay Paul' looks like in high performance Why structure and process create freedom under pressure How collaboration between coaches, specialists and athletes drives consistent results The role of ego in performance environments, and why it must be managed How to rate and refine your performance pillars instead of constantly reinventing your approach This episode is essential listening for athletes, coaches, and leaders who want sustainable elite performance, not short-term spikes. Because real high performance isn’t about chasing intensity. It’s about building a stable, reliable system that holds. Links from this episode: Prefer to watch the video? You'll find it here: https://youtu.be/gfGfPOFHcrU?si=dksZb5ojF1p9T2i2

    22 min
  2. 105: How to Manage BIG Changes – How Elite Teams Stay Aligned When Everything Changes

    12/08/2025

    105: How to Manage BIG Changes – How Elite Teams Stay Aligned When Everything Changes

    Adapting when the goalposts suddenly move in high-performance sport (and life) In Episode 105, we explore what happens when a well-designed long-term plan is derailed by sudden external pressure, and how athletes, coaches, and support can respond in a constructive way. We break down: How teams thrive when identity, communication, and process are aligned Why short-term panic destroys long-term performance How behavioural flexibility becomes your biggest asset What Bruce Tuckman’s team stages (Forming–Storming–Norming–Performing) can teach us during disruptive change The “Three Ants” analogy that reveals how people react when systems collapse One leadership decision can shift an entire team culture from growth mindset to panic mode. But it doesn't have to be that way. Elite performers can stay adaptable when everything changes. For the strategies that keep teams united, resilient, and performing under pressure, this episode is a must-listen.https://www.smartmind.com/podcast

    28 min
  3. 104: From Talent to Asset – The Real Business of Sports Management

    11/17/2025

    104: From Talent to Asset – The Real Business of Sports Management

    How Modern Sports Management Really Works for Young Athletes In this episode of Brain in the Game, Dave Diggle sits down with Kym Cheeseman from Athlete Brand Academy to unpack the real business behind modern sport – and why young athletes and their parents need to understand it long before contracts, sponsorships or media opportunities arrive. Whether your athlete is in a pathways, collegiate or feeder program, whether they play a TV-broadcast sport or a niche discipline, this episode breaks down the essential commercial, personal and developmental factors that turn raw talent into a long-term asset. In this conversation, we explore: Why today’s young athletes need both a performance pathway and a business pathway The rise of tipping-point parents and why education is the missing link Personal branding for athletes aged 15–20 – and why authenticity matters more than aesthetics The difference between an agent and a manager (and how to choose the right one) Why sponsorship is not a donation, and how athletes can deliver true ROI The pitfalls of having no Plan B and navigating early retirement through injury How US, UK and Australian systems shape athlete mindset and opportunity The psychological load parents carry when left out of the communication loop The commercial future of women’s sport and why female athletes are often more sponsor-ready The culture of self-belief, arrogance, tall-poppy syndrome and the underdog mindset in sport This episode is a must-listen for: Parents of athletes aged 15–20 navigating high-performance pathways Young athletes stepping into elite, collegiate, semi-pro or pro environments Coaches who want better relationships with athletes and their parents Anyone curious about the business ecosystem surrounding modern sport Because sport is no longer just sport. It’s contracts, media, sponsorship, lifestyle, security, money, identity, reputation, wellbeing and longevity – and it begins far earlier than most realise. Modern sports management isn’t just about who plays on the weekend. It’s about how an athlete understands themselves, represents themselves, and builds a viable future – on and off the field. Rather watch the video? You will find it here: https://youtu.be/hOAFWLizAkQ?si=sNcbkfxTlIYSvttm Links mentioned in this episode: Athlete Brand Academy – Kym Cheeseman: https://www.athletebrandacademy.com.au/ Work with Dave Diggle – High Performance Sports Mind Coach: https://www.smartmind.com/ Subscribe to Brain in the Game on your favourite platform

    1h 5m
  4. 103: Parents in Sport – The Biggest Reason Athlete–Coach Relationships Break Down (and How to Repair Them)

    10/27/2025

    103: Parents in Sport – The Biggest Reason Athlete–Coach Relationships Break Down (and How to Repair Them)

    The One Mistake Almost Every Sports Parent Makes In this powerful episode of Brain in the Game, we dig into one of the most emotionally charged dynamics in sport: the relationship between parents, coaches, and athletes – and the one mistake almost every parent makes, often without realising it. As the season winds down and pressure spikes, friction builds. Parents want the best for their child. Coaches want to develop the athlete. Athletes just want clarity, support, and space to perform. So where does it all go wrong? We break down the core misunderstanding that leads parents to unintentionally derail their child’s progress: Trying to control the sporting environment instead of supporting it. Through practical examples, developmental models, and lived experience as a coach, athlete, and parent, Dave explains how role-confusion creates tension – and how clearer boundaries create thriving, confident athletes. In this episode we delve into: The one mistake parents make that causes almost all conflict in sport – Why taking control, giving technical advice, or ‘fixing’ the athlete’s problems pushes the child and coach away. The Parent–Coach–Athlete triangle and why it becomes volatile – We unpack the emotional, structural, and seasonal triggers that turn small issues into big friction. The developmental control curve (what athletes need at each age) – From 90% coach control in early childhood to 90% athlete ownership in adulthood, and why parents often miss this shift. The difference between raising a human vs growing an athlete – Coaches coach. Parents parent. When roles overlap, athletes suffer. How to avoid bringing training home – Keeping sport at sport protects the relationship and the athlete’s mental wellbeing. The two magic questions every parent should ask – Game-changer. Why venting is healthy, and overreacting isn’t – How parents can be a safe sounding board without escalating issues or undermining the coach. How coaches can build trust with parents (and stop the ambush conversations) – Creating structured communication channels that prevent conflict and increase collaboration. How athletes can navigate both relationships without burnout – Understanding roles, boundaries, and how to communicate their needs clearly. Rather watch the video? You will find it here: https://youtu.be/bMLpV2_3mi8?si=pQ8YrNShnkDT_LWo Links mentioned in this episode: Episode 99 – Knowing Your Role In High Performance Sport: https://www.smartmind.com/podcasts/brain-in-the-game-sport-mind-coaching-podcast/episodes/2148754402 or if you'd rather watch: https://youtu.be/pE7BygxebTg?si=hEU7Q7Z1ahjPAgS3

    28 min
  5. 102: Understanding Extreme Pressure

    05/26/2025

    102: Understanding Extreme Pressure

    This episode of Brain in the Game is a little different. It’s personal.  In this episode I share a story from a time when I worked in high-risk, high-pressure environments where failure wasn’t an option, and the valuable lessons I learned and carried with me throughout my career that could help you too. I also detail two mental frameworks to help you stay calm, focused, and ready to perform, even when everything around you is in chaos. Pressure is part of the deal, so how do you handle it?Your brain is wired for survival, not high performance. It panics, it overthinks, it floods you with 'what-ifs'. The key to performing under extreme pressure? Learn how to work with your own instincts. The Power of SimplificationWhen your heart's racing and the stakes are high, your job is to cut through the noise and focus on only what matters.Ask yourself: What’s essential here? What’s just a distraction? What’s the simplest next step? The 'Bubble' Technique: Your Secret WeaponPicture this: chaos everywhere, crowds, noise, mistakes, pressure from coaches, other competitors. Can you block it all out?Learn how to create your own mental 'bubble' and choose what comes inside. Everything else? Let it go. Don’t Just Hope You’ll Cope, Prepare for the PressureWaiting for things to go perfectly is a recipe for disappointment. Build a process you can trust, no matter what’s happening around you.  These mental frameworks will help you stay calm, locked in, and ready to execute, especially when things around you are out of your control. So take these strategies into your next competition – they’re your edge. Resources mentioned in this episode: Pressure - is it really that bad? https://youtu.be/39CbUkzrdFE?si=CZ3W4kHTFV1khNgQ https//www.smartmind.com

    27 min
  6. 101: Breaking the Performance Anxiety Cycle and Performing When It Counts

    02/10/2025

    101: Breaking the Performance Anxiety Cycle and Performing When It Counts

    Performance anxiety is not a sign of weakness. It’s a cycle. And you can break it. In this episode of Brain in the Game, we go deep into the Performance Anxiety Cycle, the mental loop that can sabotage your game day execution if you don’t know how to manage it. We discuss: Why anxiety is NOT a weakness and how every elite athlete faces it The 8 phases of performance anxiety and how they build on each other How to stop overthinking, stay calm under pressure, and deliver when it counts The key mindset shifts to stop anxiety from ruining your chances at selection How to turn fear into focus so you can consistently perform at your best If you’ve ever had sleepless nights before a big competition, felt sick with nerves before stepping onto the field, or doubted yourself in critical moments, this episode is your playbook for overcoming it. Links mentioned in this episode: If you'd rather watch the video of this podcast: https://youtu.be/gmGfiYekfYY?si=Iby0De6ZvDrEk18W The Dopamine Gorilla - Brain in the Game Episode 93: https://www.smartmind.com/podcasts/brain-in-the-game-sport-mind-coaching-podcast/episodes/2148026536 All episodes found at: https://www.smartmind.com/podcast

    42 min
  7. 100: Building a Better Coach-Athlete Dynamic

    11/25/2024

    100: Building a Better Coach-Athlete Dynamic

    Collaboration – The Secret Ingredient to Consistent High Performance In this milestone 100th episode of Brain in the Game, we dive deep into the essential but often overlooked skill of collaboration and how it impacts elite performance. In this episode we discuss: Mapping Your Entourage:
Discover how to identify the key people in your support network and understand their roles, frequency, and impact on your journey. The Collaboration Mindset:
Learn how to take ownership of your relationships and set clear expectations with coaches, peers, and support teams. Shifting Control for Growth:
Find out why your role in the coach-athlete dynamic must evolve as you mature, and how it helps you thrive under pressure. Action You Can Take Now to Boost Performance:
Practical tools to assess your current collaboration and build a high-performance team dynamic that will serve you throughout your career. Optimising your relationships with coaches, peers, and support teams can give you the edge you need. Programs to Accelerate Your Success: Mental Gladiator 4-Week Program
Ideal for athletes ready to develop mental resilience and dominate under pressure. Main Arena Coach 12-Week Program
Perfect for coaches aiming to unlock the full potential of their athletes and teams.

    17 min
  8. 099: Knowing Your Role in High Performance Sport

    07/15/2024

    099: Knowing Your Role in High Performance Sport

    Navigating Roles and Expectations During the Olympics: Parent, Coach, Athlete As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, the crucial question arises: "What's my role?" Athletes, coaches, and parents alike grapple with how to best support each other during this pivotal time. In this episode, we dive into the essential roles and strategies for successful preparation and performance.  Preparation Phase Parents: Support Crew: Focus on logistical support – nutrition, hydration, and rest. Emotional Anchor: Provide moral support without delving into performance specifics. Boundaries: Avoid engaging in detailed post-training analyses; maintain a calm environment. Coaches: Right Information, Right Time: Share concise, actionable feedback. Collaboration: Foster open communication, allowing athletes to express needs. Emotional Awareness: Recognise signs of overwhelm and adjust support accordingly. Athletes: Preparation Funnel: Follow the structured approach – non-negotiables, needs, wants, nice-to-haves. Self-Reliance: Develop and trust your own preparation system. Incremental Transition: Gradually shift from student mode to performer mode as competition nears. Performance Phase Parents: Moral Support: Be present and positive without interfering. Stay Calm: Focus on enjoying the moment rather than critiquing. Simple Acts: Provide comfort and basic needs without adding stress. Coaches: Minimal Interference: Avoid last-minute technical instructions. Encouragement: Offer reassurance and boost confidence. Trust Building: Help athletes trust their preparation and abilities. Athletes: Execution: Focus on performing what you've practiced. Mindset: Enter the competition with a clear, confident mindset. Enjoyment: Embrace the experience and trust in your hard work. Join us as we break down these strategies, offering practical advice and real-world examples to help you support your athletes and teams effectively. And if you'd prefer to watch this, go to: https://youtu.be/pE7BygxebTg?si=9qwnqGBX5V3cWYue

    31 min
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About

Brain in the Game explores the mental aspect of training and competing at an elite level of sport. We’re all aware of the traditional role of a physical coach – people who work with the bodies of athletes – mind coaching (or mental coaching) focuses on the brain and the cognitive area of an athlete, working with them on their strategies, their structure and their emotional welfare. Brain in the Game is designed for athletes, coaches, parents and crew as we unpack and understand what it takes to thrive as an elite athlete. In each episode we will examine a different facet of sport from the perspective of the mind, covering interviews with some of the top athletes on the circuit and asking them what’s working for them now and what they’re looking at doing in the future. We talk to coaches and gain a better understanding of the changing face of professional coaching. We also delve into biomechanics and understand the different dynamics of the integration of those in professional sport. Some of the techniques discussed will be time-tested and others will be cutting-edge. Brain In The Game provides a practical insight to the mental 'mind-field' of elite sport and demonstrates how a strong mental programme can make all the difference to an athlete’s results.

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