The Proper Atmosphere: Recent Episodes
Dan Mickle & 717 Soul, LLC.
A weekly podcast dedicated to exploring the world of performance psychology and helping people go from good to great.
This week's question comes from Sara, a track and field runner from Illinois:
"Hi Coach Dan,
My name is Sarah Johnson, and I am a sophomore in college. I'm an aspiring track and field athlete from Springfield's bustling city.
I'm reaching out to you because I've been encountering mental hurdles affecting my performance on the track. Lately, I've been struggling with maintaining focus during competitions. My mind wanders, losing sight of my goals, especially in high-pressure situations like races. This has been taking a toll on my confidence and consistency, and I'm worried it might hinder my progress in the upcoming season.
I've tried various techniques like visualization and positive self-talk, but I still find myself getting distracted when it matters the most. I believe that with the right guidance and strategies, I can overcome these mental barriers and unleash my full potential on the track.
I would greatly appreciate your expertise in helping me develop a tailored mental performance plan to enhance my focus, confidence, and overall mindset. Your assistance in this matter would mean the world as I strive to excel in my athletic endeavors.
Looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Sara”
Episode: 26 (July 24, 2024)
Host: Dan Mickle
Topic: Confidence and Consistency
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on social
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717 Soul on social
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Recommended Products
Best Self Company - Journal Products
Whoop Fitness Band
Headspace App
This week's question comes from Sarah, a swimmer from California:
" My name is Sarah, and I am a swimmer from California. I am reaching out to you because I have been struggling with my pre-race anxiety. Swimming has always been a big part of my life, but lately, I have been getting really nervous before my races. I worry about messing up and disappointing my coaches and teammates. It's affecting my performance and I know I need to work on managing my anxiety.
I am hoping that you can help me develop some coping strategies for my pre-race nerves and teach me how to stay focused during competition. I am excited to learn from you and take my swimming to the next level. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely, Sarah”
Episode: 25 (May 24, 2023)
Host: Dan Mickle
Topic: Pre-competition Anxiety
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on social
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717 Soul on social
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Additional Resources
- "The Mindful Athlete: Secrets to Pure Performance" by George Mumford
- "Performing Under Pressure: The Science of Doing Your Best When It Matters Most" by Hendrie Weisinger and J.P. Pawliw-Fry
- "Chop Wood, Carry Water: A Guide to Finding Spiritual Fulfillment in Everyday Life" by Rick Fields
Recommended Products
Best Self Company - Journal Products
Whoop Fitness Band
Headspace App
This week's question comes from Alex, a tennis player from New York:
"Dear Coach, my name is Alex, and I am a tennis player from New York. I am reaching out to you because I have been struggling with my confidence on the court. Tennis is my passion and I have been playing competitively for several years. However, I have been experiencing self-doubt lately and it's affecting my performance. I often find myself getting frustrated during matches and I feel like I am not playing up to my potential. I am hoping that you can help me develop a stronger mental game and teach me how to stay positive and focused on the court. I am committed to working hard and learning from you. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Alex."
Episode: 24 (May 18, 2023)
Host: Dan Mickle
Topic: Self-doubt
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
We are now posting the video version on YouTube! Check out the link here.
Dan Mickle on social
YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social
YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social
Website
Additional Resources
- "The Mind Gym: An Athlete's Guide to Inner Excellence" by Gary Mack and David Casstevens. This book offers practical advice and exercises for improving mental toughness and achieving peak performance.
- "The Inner Game of Tennis" by W. Timothy Gallwey. This classic book explores the mental side of tennis and offers insights and techniques for developing a calm, focused mindset on the court.
Recommended Products
Best Self Company - Journal Products
Whoop Fitness Band
Headspace App
This week's question comes from Jeff, a basketball player from Maine:
"I love basketball, but lately I just don't feel motivated. Any thoughts on how I can get that back?
Episode: 23 (March 23, 2023)
Host: Dan Mickle
Topic: Motivation
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
We are now posting the video version on YouTube! Check out the link here.
Dan Mickle on social
YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social
YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social
Website
Recommended Products
Best Self Company - Journal Products
Whoop Fitness Band
Headspace App
This week's question comes from Sarah, a field hockey player from Pennsylvania:
"I am a very shy introvert. I think my coach and my teammates believe I don't trust or like them. What can I do?
Episode: 22 (March 09, 2023)Host: Dan MickleTopic: Introvertness
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
We are now posting the video version on YouTube! Check out the link here.
Dan Mickle on socialYouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on socialYouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Recommended Products
Best Self Company - Journal Products
Whoop Fitness Band
Headspace App
This week's question comes from Chris, a tennis player from Michigan:
"I think I am burning out. I love to play, practice, and compete in tennis. I am just starting to feel different. I think I am in the beginning stages of burnout. What can I do?
Episode: 21 (February 15, 2023)Host: Dan MickleTopic: Burnout
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
We are now posting the video version on YouTube! Check out the link here.
Dan Mickle on socialYouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on socialYouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Recommended Products
Best Self Company - Journal Products
Whoop Fitness Band
Headspace App
This week's question comes from Jeff, a volleyball player from Virginia:
"I feel like I work hard and do well in practice, but once I get into the matches, the pressure to compete is crushing me. Any tips?
Episode: 20 (February 03, 2023)Host: Dan MickleTopic: Pressure to Compete
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
We are now posting the video version on YouTube! Check out the link here.
Dan Mickle on socialYouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on socialYouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Recommended Products
Best Self Company - Journal Products
Whoop Fitness Band
Headspace App
This week's question comes from James, a basketball player from Maryland:
"I tend to freeze or choke in games. I am always worried about letting my coach and the team down. What can I do? It is holding me back!"
Episode: 19 (December 23, 2022)Host: Dan MickleTopic: Letting Coach Down
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on socialFacebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on socialFacebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Recommended Products
Best Self Company - Journal Products
Whoop Fitness Band
Headspace App
Episode: 18 (November 30, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: I Can Do More, Mentally.
This week's question comes from Joni, a swimmer from Oklahoma:
"I work hard every day, but I feel I could be doing more mentally. I just don't know where to start. Thoughts?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Recommended Products
Best Self Company - Journal Products
Whoop Fitness Band
Headspace App
Episode: 17 (November 23, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: I Can Be So Much More
This week's question comes from James, a soccer player from Iowa:
"I show up, I work hard, but I still leave each practice or match thinking I can be so much more. How can I work on this?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Episode: 16 (October 5, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Fear of Failure
This week's question comes from Chris, a golfer from Florida:
"I find myself paralyzed by fear at times. There are times that I won't even try because my fear of failure is so bad. Help!"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and @RealDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Episode: 15 (September 28, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: My Career is Over
This week's question comes from Joseph, a soccer player in Nebraska:
"I am a college senior and I just suffered a career-ending injury. I am not sure how I can handle not being able to play the sports I love anymore. It has been my life since I was 8. Please help!"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Episode: 14 (September 21, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Pre-game Focus
This week's question comes from Cindy, a field hockey player in Texas:
"I am having a hard time with my pre-game warmup. Any help?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Episode: 13 (September 14, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Coaches and Favorites
This week's question comes from Joni, in Wisconsin:
"Coach Dan, I feel like my coach spends a lot of time and attention on a select group of players. Do coaches tend to have favorites?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Episode: 12 (May 25, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: King of Conflict
This week's question comes from Jeff, a California baseball player:
"Coach, I seem to have conflicts with most of my teammates, I guess it is just our different personalities. Maybe I am just the King of Conflict?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Episode: 10 (May 18, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: I Don't Want to do This Anymore.
This week's question comes from Jenny, a Pennsylvania volleyball player:
Coach Dan - "I have been playing volleyball since I was 10. I love the sport, but I don't think I want to do this anymore. Can you help me out?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
ICN Athletics on social Website
Episode: 10 (April 06, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Am I A Bully?
This week's question comes from Jeff, a u17 Soccer player from Colorado:
Coach Dan - I am the captain of my u17 soccer team. Sometimes when I am hard on my team, I feel like I am a bully. How do I reconcile being tough and not being a bully, or am I actually a bully?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere and #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Episode: 9 (March. 11, 2022) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Instructional Conflict
We are back! After a winter break, we have returned with a new episode. This episode's questions comes from Jill in the Seattle, Washington area:
"Dear Coach Dan - I am an 11th-grade swimmer who recently started running into a problem. I am getting conflicting instruction from one of my assistant coaches and my head coach. I want to make them both happy, but I am not sure who to listen to or how to address it. Any thoughts?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere or #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Episode: 8 (Oct. 18, 2021) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Tryout Anxiety
This week, we take a the curse of tryouts, anxiety. Kim from Baltimore asks:
"My daughter has terrible anxiety over her club tryouts. Any tips?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere or #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Episode: 7 (Sept. 30, 2021) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Moving players up an age group.
This week, we take a look at moving players up an age group. William from Virginia asks:
"My u13 basketball daughter was asked to play up on a u15 all-star team this year. What are your thoughts on this?"
Remember, podcast@properatmosphere or #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Episode: 6 (July 23, 2021) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Accountability
This week, we take a look at accountability. How can you and your team hold each other accountable without becoming a dumpster fire? Remember, podcast@properatmosphere or #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Episode: 5 (July 18, 2021) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Team Building
This week, we take a look at team building. Going beyond rope courses and trust falls. Keep the questions coming! podcast@properatmosphere or #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Episode: 4 (July 6, 2021) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Game Anxiety
This week, we take a look at game anxiety. This is a pretty basic look at a pretty deep topic. Keep the questions coming! podcast@properatmosphere or #AskDanMickle are two great ways to reach us.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Episode: 3 (July 1, 2021) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Visualization
This week, we answer Karls' (from Tuscon, Arizona) question about imagery for his son, and where to even start the process.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Episode: 2 (June 8, 2021) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Goal Setting
This week, we answer Jennifers' (from Eugene, Oregon) question about goal setting and methods that can help her daughters' field hockey career.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Episode: 1 (June 1, 2021) Host: Dan Mickle Topic: Game Anxiety
"My child has terrible game anxiety. What can we do?" This is one of the questions I get asked the most. While it may seem like a rather simple concept, game/performance anxiety can be hard to overcome. In this episode, I explore some root causes and ways to help people being to overcome those anxieties.
** Make sure you visit the podcast website for episode transcriptions.
Dan Mickle on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
717 Soul on social Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website