What if you trained your mindset with the same consistency and intention as your swing, your conditioning, or your defensive reps?

In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with mental performance coach Amanda Schaefer for a powerful conversation about three science-backed tools that can transform the way athletes think, perform, and show up under pressure: body mirroring, gratitude, and visualization.

Together, they break down how small mental shifts — when practiced consistently — can lead to big changes in confidence, connection, and composure both on and off the field. Whether you’re an athlete chasing your next level, a coach shaping culture, or a parent supporting a young competitor, this episode offers practical strategies you can start using immediately.

Why the Mental Game Matters

Physical preparation will always matter — but the best performers know that mindset is what sustains success. Amanda explains how the brain responds to intention, awareness, and repetition, and why training your mind is not an add-on, but a foundational part of performance.

This conversation moves beyond theory and into real-world application, helping listeners understand why these tools work and how to integrate them into everyday routines.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How body mirroring builds trust and confidence
  Learn how subtle shifts in posture, movement, and presence can improve communication and connection — on teams, with coaches, and in everyday life.

• The science behind gratitude and mindset
  Discover how practicing gratitude can literally rewire your brain, improving emotional regulation, resilience, and focus.

• Why visualization works like physical practice
  Amanda explains how visualization activates the same neural pathways as live reps, making it one of the most effective tools for preparation and confidence.

• Simple ways to make mental skills part of your routine
  No complicated systems — just realistic, repeatable habits that fit into an athlete’s daily life.

Your Mental Challenge This Week

Amanda leaves listeners with a simple challenge designed to create immediate awareness and impact:

1. Mirror someone’s body language and notice the shift in connection.

2. Write down three things you’re grateful for — daily.

3. Visualize your next moment of success before it happens.

Small shifts truly do lead to big results.

About
Amanda Schaefer

Amanda Schaefer is a mental performance coach who helps athletes build confidence, manage pressure, and develop the mental skills needed to compete freely and fearlessly. Her work bridges science, psychology, and real-world athletic experience to support athletes at every level.

Connect with Amanda:

• Website: fearlesswarriorprogram.com

• Instagram: @fearless_coach_ab

• Facebook: Fearless Fastpitch Mental Training

Past Episodes with Amanda