Inside the Mind of an Athlete: Sports Psychology with Dr. Blakely

In this episode of The School Collective, Christopher and Brook sit down with sports psychologist Dr. Blakely Low Sampson for an engaging and eye-opening conversation about the world of sports psychology. Dr. Blakely shares how she helps athletes, from elite performers to burned-out high achievers, navigate both performance demands and mental health challenges.

Together, they unpack the unique pressures athletes face, common misconceptions about the field, and the vital role parents play in supporting (not pushing) their young competitors. From managing perfectionism and game-day nerves to fostering intrinsic motivation and value-driven decision-making, this episode is packed with insights for anyone working with competitive youth.

Plus, stick around for a rapid-fire Q&A to hear Dr. Blakely’s hot takes on everything from Velociraptors to travel preferences.

Whether you're a school psychologist, coach, parent, or just sports-curious, this one's a must-listen.

Social Handles:

Christopher Ponce

• Instagram - @theschoolpsychguy
• LinkedIn - Christopher Ponce

Dr. Blakely

• Instagram - @dr.blakely

Music by: J Andrew Collins