The Play Free Podcast Jon Giesbrecht

Want to get connected with Play Free Basketball - Follow us on Instagram @playfreebball.



Andy Bass

Introduction: Andy details his journey from developing yips as a pitcher to earning his doctorate in motor behavior, where he discovered his passion for helping athletes overcome mental blocks. He landed his first job in mental skills coaching with the Pirates after they recognized his unique ability to relate to players' experiences.

Validating emotions and importance of listening: Andy emphasizes the critical importance of validating an athlete's emotions to make them feel heard and understood, which allows them to process what they're feeling and become more receptive. He stresses coaches must listen without judgment and avoid dismissing how an athlete feels.

Finding flow and managing expectations: Andy explains the dimensions that can help athletes enter a state of flow, such as balancing challenge and skills. He advises setting process-oriented goals within one's control to manage expectations, rather than outcome-focused goals that rely on external factors.

Goal setting with athletes: Andy details the SMART framework for goal-setting - making goals specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound. He works with athletes using questioning to help them establish process-focused goals within their control that will lead to performance and outcome goals.

Pushing athletes while respecting boundaries: Andy notes the importance of reading an athlete's comfort level when providing mental skills support. For newcomers or veterans, he looks for organic ways like overhearing conversations to demonstrate his willingness to help without forcing it. Directly asking questions can also help push some athletes.

Addressing weaknesses as a coach: Andy admits to being too non-confrontational and focused on avoiding disruption. He's working on being more assertive while also modeling vulnerability through sharing his own mental health struggles. He aims to learn alongside athletes rather than position himself as the sole expert.

Overcoming slumps: Andy encourages athletes to talk through struggles and use techniques like differential learning in practice. He advises shifting focus to controllable process goals like defense rather than uncontrollable outcomes, and helping others to shift the mindset away from solely results.

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KYLE JULIUS PODCAST NOTES:



Establishing Identity

Kyle establishes his coaching identity is built on valuing hard work, honesty and developing players. He faces criticism as some players love while others hate his demanding approach.

⁠Building Relationships Through Honesty

Kyle emphasizes building trust with players through honest, weekly conversations about expectations and performance. Players don't always share honestly due to fear, requiring alternative communication channels.

Developing Players Through Hard Work

Kyle's passion is player development, grinding alongside them daily. Success comes when most players share his work ethic; otherwise friction arises from misaligned motivations.

Reflecting on Mistakes to Improve

Facing failure, Kyle deeply self-reflects, identifying relational errors and emotional inconsistencies. He resolves to improve communication and maintain composure through adversity.

Maintaining Consistency While Adapting

Kyle tailors his identity to new contexts but remains authentic to core values. Experience teaches fluidity within structure; he gives players space amid intensity to optimize growth.

Leading Through Authenticity and Experience

Kyle doubles-down on proven beliefs while integrating new perspectives. A leader emerges from challenges by earning others' trust over time through consistency and honesty.

Recruiting the Right Fit for Success

Prioritizing character over talent, Kyle learns to select self-motivated players aligned with his vision. Their shared work ethic and honesty cultivate the trust enabling championship caliber teamwork.

On this episode, Jon interviews friend Tyler Harvey.



Tyler Jordan Harvey is an American professional basketball player for the Illawarra Hawks of the Australian National Basketball League. He played college basketball for the Eastern Washington Eagles, where he led Division I in scoring as a junior. He was drafted by the Orlando Magic.



You can follow Tyler on his Instagram @hoopersparadise1.



If you are interested in our becoming a pro client or learning how to Play Free apply or purchase our journal through Instagram (@playfreebball) or email Jon through support@playfreebball.com. 

On this episode, Jon interviews a Play Free member and pro client Glen Yang.



Glen is starting his second season with the Bay Area Dragons (Teammate of Duncan Reid), after finishing his first CEBL season with the Winnipeg Sea Bears. At the time of this recording, Glen had been a client with Play Free for 3 months.



If you are interested in our Play Free Membership, apply through Instagram direct message (@playfreebball) or email Jon through support@playfreebball.com.

On this episode, Jon Giesbrecht interviews Devon Brookshire.



Devon Brookshire is from Los Angeles CA. Played 2 years at Northwestern University before transferring to Saint Mary’s College of California. In her 6th season professionally with stints in Ireland, France, Spain, Latvia, Portugal, Sweden, and currently Australia. She has made the all-league team in Ireland, France, and Portugal.



If you are interested in our Play Free Membership or becoming a Play Free Pro Client, apply through Instagram direct message (@playfreebball) or by emailing Jon support@playfreebball.com.



You can also access the direct application form here: https://playfreebasketball.mykajabi.com/assessments/2147652064



YOUTUBE CHANNEL PLAYER STUDIES + VIDCASTS WITH GUESTS: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEQzuDNzSLChyoxDMLNs5CQ

On this episode, Jon Giesbrecht interviews Taylor Browne.



Taylor Browne: University - UBC Thunderbirds
Pro : PBA - Alaska Aces, Converge Fiber X’ers



If you are interested in our Play Free Membership or becoming a Play Free Pro Client, apply through Instagram direct message (@playfreebball) or by emailing Jon support@playfreebball.com.



You can also access the direct application form here: https://playfreebasketball.mykajabi.com/assessments/2147652064



YOUTUBE CHANNEL PLAYER STUDIES + VIDCASTS WITH GUESTS: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEQzuDNzSLChyoxDMLNs5CQ