ExpandAbilities MEETS

About ExpandAbilities MEETS

ExpandAbilities MEETS, the flagship podcast for the ExpandAbilities brand, focuses on the mental, emotional, and human side of athletics. Hosted by coaches Alex and Rob, the show explores the struggles, habits, conversations, and real-life experiences that shape athletes, coaches, and educators on and off the field. Each episode addresses topics often left unspoken in sports, including mental health, identity, pressure, transition, leadership, relationships, adversity, and personal growth. Through honest dialogue, current events, and lived coaching experiences, Alex and Rob create a space for reflection, learning, and growth. The goal of ExpandAbilities MEETS is simple: to help people navigate the challenges of sport and life without losing themselves in the process. The podcast emphasizes connection, communication, and healthy ways to handle adversity, reminding listeners that success is about more than wins and losses—it’s about becoming stronger people through sport.

Publisher

Alex Dolgner & Robert Harris

Category

health & fitness · sports

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

26 Oct 2025

Latest episode

10 Apr 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   10 Apr 2026

   Session 17 --- Burnout in Athletics and Beyond

   In this episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, the hosts dive into the reality of burnout—how it develops in high school sports and carries into life beyond the game. They explore how pressure, lack of playing time, and year-round specialization can turn a passion into stress, leading athletes to feel disconnected from something they once loved. Through personal experiences, they highlight the importance of mentorship, honest conversations, and recognizing when it’s time to reset. More than just a sports issue, burnout impacts school, work, and everyday life. This episode emphasizes the need for mental health awareness, rest, and building an identity beyond athletics. A conversation about protecting your passion, prioritizing your well-being, and understanding who you are beyond the game.

2. 

   26 Mar 2026

   Session 16 --- Motivation, Mindset, and Building a Winning Culture

   In this episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, the Alex and Rob return from a brief hiatus to share updates from their work in athletics and education. Rob recaps a successful wrestling season with multiple state qualifiers and champions, while Alex discusses his role in education, including an SEL class that uses silent media to help students better understand body language and emotions. The conversation centers on motivation in athletics, emphasizing mindset, effort, and the importance of strong coach-athlete relationships. The hosts also explore building a unified program culture, highlighting the need for clear expectations and consistency from youth to high school levels. They close by discussing the evolving landscape of college athletics, including the impact of the transfer portal and NIL, and encourage listeners to reflect on their own motivations while supporting the ExpandAbilities mission.

3. 

   10 Feb 2026

   Session 15 --- When Quitting Becomes the Easy Option

   In this episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob dive into the topic of quitting—what it looks like in sports, why it happens, and how it shows up beyond the mat and the field. Using a recent wrestling tournament experience as a starting point, the conversation explores how frustration, fatigue, and mindset can cause athletes to mentally check out when things get hard. The discussion expands into today’s culture of specialization, the decline of multi-sport athletes, and whether quitting has become an easier option when challenges arise. Alex and Rob also examine the ripple effect quitting can create in careers, relationships, and long-term commitment. The episode closes by highlighting the critical role coaches play in preventing quitting by building strong culture, fostering connection, and helping athletes feel valued regardless of results. 🎙 ExpandAbilities MEETS 💬 Join the MEETS Collective | $5/month 🌐 expandabilities.com (http://expandabilities.com) 📩 info@expandabilities.com (mailto:info@expandabilities.com)

4. 

   14 Jan 2026

   Session 14 --- Dealing with Pressure and "Blank Out" Moments in Sports

   In this episode of Expandabilities MEETS, Alex and Rob discuss the mental side of athletic performance, focusing on pressure in sports—especially wrestling. They explore how pressure and overthinking can cause athletes to “blank out” and lose focus during key moments. Examples include last-second losses in wrestling and missed field goals in football. The hosts emphasize the role of coaches in preparing athletes for stressful situations through scenario-based training and mental drills. T hey highlight mindset, effort, and discipline as crucial for handling pressure, quoting Coach Curt Signetti’s philosophy of giving 100% effort from start to finish. The episode ends with a reminder of Expandabilities’ mission—to help athletes grow mentally and physically by discussing challenges like pressure and mental health, and encouraging participation in sports.

5. 

   28 Dec 2025

   Session 13: Behind the Uniform: Eating Disorders in Athletics (featuring Raegan G.)

   In this episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob take on the important and often misunderstood topic of eating disorders in athletics. They are joined by Raegan G, a former high school basketball player, who courageously shares her personal journey and the challenges she faced while competing at a high level. Raegan discusses the pressures that contributed to her struggle, how she recognized the need for help, and the care and support that played a critical role in her recovery. Together, the conversation highlights the importance of awareness, early support, and honest dialogue within athletic spaces. This episode offers valuable insight for athletes, coaches, parents, and anyone seeking to better understand the mental health challenges that can exist behind the scenes of sport. By bringing these stories to light, this episode reinforces the message that true strength in athletics begins with care, connection, and the courage to ask for help.

6. 

   28 Dec 2025

   Session 12 --- Navigating Environment Change in Athletics

   In this impromptu episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob dive into the mental and emotional challenges athletes face during periods of transition, especially when moving from one coaching staff or environment to another. Using the University of Michigan’s recent coaching change as a central example, they discuss how leadership shifts impact player trust, culture, and identity. The conversation explores how athletes process uncertainty, how relationships with coaches and teammates shape success, and why culture often matters more than scheme or talent. Alex and Rob also touch on the influence of the transfer portal, NIL, and the emotional weight coaching decisions place on players and families. This episode is a candid look at navigating change, staying grounded, and finding stability during uncertain times—on and off the field.

7. 

   27 Dec 2025

   Session 11 --- Sudden Loss of a Coach

   In this powerful and emotional episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob address the reality of suicide following a recent tragedy at Rob’s school, where a wrestling coach took his own life. Together, they reflect on the shock and heartbreak felt by colleagues, athletes, and the wider school community, and the difficult conversations that follow when loss hits close to home. Alex and Rob discuss how events like this deeply affect coaches and athletes alike—challenging identity, trust, and emotional stability—especially in environments built on toughness and resilience. They talk openly about grief, confusion, guilt, and the unanswered questions that often surface after suicide. Most importantly, this episode centers on healthy ways to process pain, stress, and overwhelming emotions without turning to self-harm. Alex and Rob emphasize the importance of connection, speaking up, checking on one another, and recognizing that strength is not silence. They reinforce the message that no moment—no matter how heavy—is worth a life, and that help, support, and hope always exist, even when they are hard to see. This episode is a reminder to coaches, athletes, educators, and listeners everywhere that mental health matters, conversations save lives, and no one has to carry their struggles alone. If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out can make a difference. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you’re outside the U.S., local crisis resources are available in many countries.

8. 

   21 Dec 2025

   Session 10 --- Sherrone Moore Situation and Its Impact

   In this week’s episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob break down the recent situation involving Sherrone Moore at Michigan and explore the mental and emotional impact that moments like this can have far beyond the headlines. While the public often focuses on wins, losses, and controversy, the human side of the story is where the deeper conversation begins. Alex and Rob discuss what a situation like this means for Moore’s family, who experience pressure, uncertainty, and public scrutiny in ways most fans never see. They also examine the effect on the players, who look to their coach for stability, leadership, and reassurance—and how sudden changes or emotional moments can influence their confidence, performance, and sense of security within the program. The episode also dives into the broader program-wide impact, addressing how staff, administration, and the entire team culture feel the shockwaves of a major coaching moment. From emotional leadership to team identity, Alex and Rob unpack how these situations shape the mindset of everyone involved. This episode puts the focus where it matters most: the human element behind the headlines. Tune in to this week’s powerful conversation on ExpandAbilities MEETS.

9. 

   14 Dec 2025

   Session 9 --- The Scariest Moments in Sports: The Mental Toll

   In this week’s episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob take a deep dive into one of the most jarring and emotionally challenging experiences in sports: witnessing traumatic injuries that take place in athletics. From severe collisions to broken limbs, seizures, and sudden collapses, athletes often see moments that stay with them long after the game ends. This episode explores what happens mentally and emotionally when players witness these events — the fear, the shock, the anxiety, and the thoughts that athletes rarely verbalize. Alex and Rob discuss how these moments can trigger self-doubt, hesitation in play, or a heightened awareness of vulnerability, even in athletes who weren’t directly injured. They also talk about the immediate and long-term psychological responses athletes may face, how teammates can support one another, and what coaches and adults can do to create space for processing these experiences. By acknowledging the emotional weight behind these moments, this episode aims to shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of sports: the mental recovery that goes far beyond physical rehab. Tune in to this powerful conversation on ExpandAbilities MEETS.

10. 

    1 Dec 2025

    Session 8 --- Abandonment: The Lane Kiffin Catastrophe

    On this week’s episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob dive into a topic that shows up in sports far more often than people realize: abandonment. For some athletes, sports become a safe place — a space to find support from coaches and teammates when relationships at home are strained or distant. For others, the feeling of abandonment comes when a coach they trusted suddenly leaves, often causing athletes to question themselves, their value, and what they meant to that coach. Alex and Rob unpack the emotional impact of both experiences — the loss of support at home and the loss of stability within a team. This week’s conversation also highlights the recent news surrounding Lane Kiffin accepting a new coaching position, using it as a real-time example to explore how players might feel, react, and process the change. It’s a powerful discussion about connection, trust, and what young athletes go through behind the scenes. Catch this week’s episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS.

11. 

    26 Nov 2025

    Session 7 --- ADHD

    In this episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob tackle an important and often misunderstood topic in sports: ADHD in athletes. From youth leagues to college competition, many players navigate attention challenges, impulsivity, and overstimulation — all while trying to perform at a high level. This conversation explores how ADHD can impact focus, communication, emotional regulation, and consistency on the field — but also how it can be a competitive strength when properly understood and supported. We discuss real-life strategies for athletes, coaches, and parents, including ways to improve focus, structure routines, manage game-day distractions, and build confidence without shame or labels. Our goal is not just awareness — it’s empowerment. Because when athletes with ADHD are given the right environment, they don’t just survive in sports… they thrive. ExpandAbilities MEETS — helping athletes understand their minds as much as their bodies.

12. 

    16 Nov 2025

    Session 6 --- AUTISM

    In this episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob dive into an important and often overlooked topic in the world of sports: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Through open conversation, personal stories, and practical insight, this episode explores what it truly means to support athletes on the spectrum both on and off the field. We break down common misconceptions about ASD, discuss the wide range of strengths and challenges athletes may experience, and highlight strategies coaches, teammates, and parents can use to foster confidence, communication, and connection. From sensory needs and social dynamics to motivation, routine, and self-advocacy, this conversation sheds light on how athletes with ASD can thrive when given the right environment. Our goal is simple: to raise awareness, build understanding, and remind every listener that supporting neurodiverse athletes isn’t just good coaching, it’s good humanity. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, educator, or parent, this episode offers meaningful takeaways that can help create more inclusive, empowering spaces in athletics and beyond. ExpandAbilities MEETS — where mindset, mental health, and growth collide.

13. 

    9 Nov 2025

    Session 5 --- SUICIDAL IDEATION

    This Week on ExpandAbilities MEETS: Understanding Suicidal Ideation in Sports On this week’s episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob tackle one of the most sensitive and vital topics in mental health—suicidal ideation. This discussion forms is centered on the awareness and skills to recognize and respond to warning signs of suicide risk among athletes. We also share the new vision of the ExpandAbilities company with helping develop the complete athlete from performance, to media exposure, to mindset. In this deeply compassionate and informative conversation, Alex and Rob shed light on the realities of suicidal thoughts—what they mean, how they can manifest, and the unique pressures that can increase risk within the athletic environment. From performance expectations and injury recovery to identity loss and burnout, they explore the factors that may contribute to emotional crisis and isolation in sport. The goal of this episode is to help coaches and athletes understand that early recognition, active listening, and empathetic communication can make a life-changing difference. By fostering safe, nonjudgmental spaces and connecting athletes with the right professional support, coaches can play a crucial role in prevention and hope. Join us as we continue to open conversations that matter—breaking stigma, deepening understanding, and giving every coach the tools to support their athletes’ mental health, resilience, and overall well-being.

14. 

    26 Oct 2025

    Session 4 --- BIPOLAR DISORDER

    This Week on ExpandAbilities MEETS: Bipolar Disorder in Sports On this week’s episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob dive into the complex and often misunderstood topic of Bipolar Disorder—a critical focus and the third module in the ExpandAbilities Coach Certification. In this open and thought-provoking conversation, Alex and Rob reflect on real experiences and challenges faced by athletes living with bipolar disorder. From navigating mood shifts to managing energy and focus, they unpack how bipolar disorder can affect an athlete’s performance, relationships, and emotional well-being both on and off the field. Our goal is to equip coaches with the knowledge to recognize signs of bipolar disorder and respond with compassion and confidence. By creating structured, understanding environments, coaches can play a vital role in helping athletes maintain balance, build trust, and stay engaged in their sport. Tune in each week as we continue to explore vital mental health topics, share impactful stories, and deliver practical tools to help coaches support every athlete’s journey—mentally, emotionally, and physically.

15. 

    26 Oct 2025

    Session 3 --- ANXIETY

    This Week on ExpandAbilities MEETS: Anxiety in Sports On this week’s episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob explore the topic of Anxiety—a key focus and the second module in the ExpandAbilities Coach Certification. In this honest and insightful conversation, Alex and Rob share their personal experiences and perspectives on how anxiety affects athletes at all levels. From performance pressure to fear of failure, they discuss the invisible challenges athletes face and how anxiety impacts participation, enjoyment, and overall well-being in sports. Our mission is to help coaches understand the signs of anxiety and empower them to create environments where athletes feel supported, safe, and emotionally prepared. By building awareness and providing tools to respond effectively, we can foster healthier teams and increase athlete retention in sports programs worldwide. Be sure to tune in each week as we continue to highlight new topics, share powerful stories, and offer practical strategies to help coaches support the full potential of every athlete—mind and body.

16. 

    26 Oct 2025

    Session 2 --- DEPRESSION

    This Week on ExpandAbilities MEETS: Depression in Sports On this week’s episode of ExpandAbilities MEETS, Alex and Rob dive into the important and often overlooked topic of Depression—the first module in the ExpandAbilities Coach Certification. Both Alex and Rob openly share their personal stories and perspectives on how depression affects individuals within the sports world, from professional athletes to young players just starting out. They explore the impact mental health challenges have on performance, participation, and long-term well-being in sports environments across the globe. Our goal is to help coaches recognize the signs of depression and take meaningful steps toward creating safer, more supportive environments for their athletes. By equipping coaches with the tools to respond to emotional challenges, we aim to boost athlete participation and, most importantly, ensure every athlete feels seen, supported, and comfortable. Stay tuned and continue to join us weekly as we explore new topics, share real stories, and offer insights to help coaches make a lasting impact—on and off the field.

17. 

    26 Oct 2025

    Session 1 --- WELCOME

    Welcome to ExpandAbilities Meets with Alex and Rob! We're excited to share real conversations about mental health, coaching, and the intersection of athletics and emotional well-being. As coaches and advocates, we dive into our personal stories, explore challenges athletes face, and discuss how we can build a more inclusive and supportive sports culture. Each week, we unpack the steps programs can take to better navigate emotional moments, support athletes dealing with mental health challenges, and ultimately bridge the gap between performance and personal well-being. Join us weekly—and let’s meet at the heart of what really matters in sports.

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.