Growing Athletes Podcast

About Growing Athletes Podcast

Growing Athletes Podcast is a dynamic and inspiring show brimming with actionable advice, essential skills, and empowering concepts designed to unleash the extraordinary potential within athletes of all ages. Whether you're a dedicated athlete, a coach aspiring to elevate your team's performance, or a parent committed to your athlete's success, recognizing that a resilient mindset is the cornerstone of achievement, this podcast is tailored for you. Your host, Amy Suiter, a former Division I athlete at the University of Washington with a background in sports psychology and coaching experience at both Division I and Division II levels, brings a wealth of knowledge to help athletes explore their potential from the inside out. Amy encourages athletes to rediscover their true selves, drawing upon her life's work dedicated to nurturing the holistic development of individuals. Tune in for valuable insights if you've been grappling with questions like: How can I cultivate confidence? How do I navigate performance anxiety? Juggling various responsibilities, how do I find balance? What strategies can improve communication with teammates, coaches, and parents? How can I stay motivated and achieve my goals? And, crucially, how do we prevent burnout? If you're ready to embark on the journey of personal growth, or if you're eager to support the athlete in your life, the Growing Athletes Podcast is your go-to resource. Join us as we delve into the strategies, mindset shifts, and practical tips that will empower athletes to thrive both on and off the field.

Publisher

Amy Suiter

Category

education · sports

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

17 Feb 2024

Latest episode

5 Feb 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Feb 2026

   18: Momentum- Why It Swings and How Great Teams Create It

   WATCH Episode 18: Momentum- Why It Swings and How Great Teams Create It (https://youtu.be/hdqd2FveQEU?si=N4_YwWzWvli8VCK9) In this episode of the Growing Athletes Podcast, Amy Suiter breaks down one of the most misunderstood parts of sport: momentum. After working with a basketball team that repeatedly built early leads only to give up massive runs, Amy explores why momentum isn’t about luck, talent, or emotion alone. Instead, momentum is created by focus, attention, and how teams respond after both good and bad moments. This episode helps athletes, coaches, and parents understand why momentum swings happen so quickly, how focus fuels those swings, and what great teams do differently to stay present and locked in when emotions run high. This conversation isn’t about hype or motivation. It’s about awareness, emotional regulation, and learning how to reset so the next play gets your best energy. Key Takeaways Momentum is not random. It’s built possession by possession. Both positive and negative emotions can steal momentum if focus isn’t reset. Being “locked in” means controlling attention, not eliminating emotion. The brain’s focus system plays a huge role in momentum swings during games. Great teams feel emotion, then refocus quickly on the next play. Momentum lives in the reset, not the scoreboard. Episode Flow Opening Amy shares a real-time story from working with a basketball team that repeatedly lost momentum after getting ahead. She introduces the idea that momentum isn’t magic or chance, it’s created by where attention goes next. Why Momentum Swings A look at how both missed shots and made shots can pull teams out of focus. Amy explains how comfort, frustration, and emotional reactions quietly shift momentum when urgency and presence fade. What “Locked In” Really Means Amy breaks down focus and attention in today’s game and introduces how the brain’s filtering system (RAS) influences what players notice, react to, and give energy to during competition. Emotion vs. Reaction Why emotions aren’t the enemy in sport, but reacting without resetting is. Amy explains why feeling emotion matters and how ignoring or suppressing it actually makes momentum swings worse. The Momentum Reset Practical strategies for athletes and teams to feel emotion quickly and refocus on the next play. Why resets are needed after both mistakes and success. The Present Moment Advantage Amy reinforces the idea that the team who stays present the longest controls momentum. Focus on the next play, not the last one, is what separates great teams. Closing A reminder that momentum is always being created. The question isn’t if it’s happening, but what your focus is creating next. Connect with Amy Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com)Instagram: @asuiter25 Facebook: Amy Suiter YouTube: @amysuitercoaching Don’t Forget If this episode gave you language for something you’ve felt in games, practices, or on the sidelines, please share it with a coach, athlete, or parent who needs it. Momentum changes when awareness does.

2. 

   29 Jan 2026

   17: Mean Girls, Hurt Girls, and the Path to Real Confidence

   In this episode of the Growing Athletes Podcast, Amy Suiter tackles one of the most common and painful dynamics in youth sports, schools, and friendships: mean girl behavior, comparison, and insecurity. Instead of labeling or shaming, Amy offers a powerful reframe that helps athletes, parents, and coaches understand what’s really happening beneath the surface. What if “mean girls” aren’t mean at all, but hurt girls responding to insecurity in different ways? Some act out. Some pull away. Both are searching for safety, belonging, and confidence. This episode blends real-life stories, mindset coaching, and practical guidance to help listeners build true self-confidence, improve team chemistry, and create healthier relationships, on and off the field. Key Takeaways for Athletes, Parents, and Coaches Insecurity is normal and human, especially in adolescence and competitive environments. Mean girl behavior and social withdrawal often come from the same root: lack of internal security. Comparison damages confidence and connection, whether it shows up loudly or quietly. True confidence is built from the inside out, not through approval, popularity, or performance. Athletes grow when they learn how to respond to insecurity with awareness instead of reaction. Coaches and parents play a critical role in creating cultures of belonging and emotional safety. Episode Flow Opening: Mean Girls and Hurt Girls Amy reframes the “mean girl” label and invites listeners to see insecurity with compassion, understanding, and honesty. This opening sets the tone for growth without judgment. Why Insecurity Shows Up in Teams and Friendships A relatable exploration of how insecurity fuels comparison, gossip, exclusion, anxiety, and disconnection—especially in sports and school environments. Two Common Responses to Insecurity The athlete who acts out, compares, or seeks control The athlete who withdraws, stays quiet, or disappears Amy explains how both responses are protective strategies, not personality flaws. How to Build Real Confidence and Security Practical mindset coaching for: Athletes who struggle with comparison or social pressure Parents supporting kids through friendship challenges Coaches building strong team culture and emotional resilience This section focuses on awareness, values, and choosing who you want to become under pressure. Creating Healthy Team Culture How adults can model confidence, accountability, and belonging without labels, favoritism, or fear-based leadership. Closing: Remembering Who You Already Are Amy closes with a reminder that true confidence isn’t earned through popularity or performance…it’s remembered. A call to live and lead from identity, values, and inner security. Connect with Amy Suiter Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com)Instagram: @asuiter25 Facebook: Amy Suiter YouTube: @amysuitercoaching Don’t Forget If this episode helped you better understand mean girl behavior, comparison, insecurity, or confidence in athletes, please share it with a parent, coach, or athlete who needs it. These conversations change cultures.

3. 

   23 Jan 2026

   16: Effort And Hard Work Are Non-Negotiable

   In this episode, Amy Suiter dives into a real-life parenting moment that turned into one of the most important lessons sports can teach, the value of effort and hard work. Through an honest story from a Sunday morning game, Amy unpacks why effort matters more than scores or stats, how today’s youth sports culture has unintentionally diluted urgency, and why resistance often shows up right before real growth happens. This episode is for athletes, parents, and coaches who want sports to be more than just games, who want them to be a training ground for life. Key Takeaways Sports are a privilege and one of the best places to learn effort, discipline, and work ethic. Effort is always a choice, even when confidence, motivation, or emotions are low. Today’s culture of endless games can unintentionally teach kids to go through the motions instead of fully engaging. Resistance, anger, and defensiveness are often signs that a lesson is landing, not that it failed. Holding a standard for effort isn’t harsh, it’s loving and prepares kids for real life. Episode Flow Opening Amy shares a personal story from a Sunday morning game that sparked a hard but meaningful conversation about effort, responsibility, and what sports are truly meant to teach. Sports Are a Privilege A reminder many kids don’t love hearing, sports are not a given. They are one of the most meaningful places to learn hard work, and life will teach this lesson one way or another. The Culture of Endless Games Amy explores how today’s packed schedules and constant competition have changed how games feel, and how effort quietly fades when moments stop feeling urgent or earned. When Resistance Shows Up Why anger and defensiveness are natural nervous system responses to hard truth, and why growth often happens in the quiet, uncomfortable space after the conversation. When the Lesson Lands The moment everything shifted, not because of fear or punishment, but because of reflection, choice, and ownership. Effort returned, and with it, pride and growth. The Bigger Lesson Why effort matters more than wins, stats, or scholarships, and how sports teach life skills like emotional regulation, responding to feedback, and showing up when it’s hard. Closing Amy reflects on why the uncomfortable moments matter most and invites listeners to share this episode with someone who needs the reminder that effort always matters. Connect with Amy Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com) Instagram: @asuiter25 Facebook: Amy Suiter YouTube: @amysuitercoaching Don’t Forget If this episode felt familiar or hit close to home, please share it with a parent, coach, or athlete who could use this reminder. These conversations are how growth spreads.

4. 

   30 Nov 2025

   15: Gratitude vs. Pressure- The Neuroscience Trick Every Athlete, Coach, and Parent Should Know

   In this episode, Amy Suiter breaks down gratitude in a way most people have never heard before. Not as a holiday moment or a “say three things you’re thankful for” activity… but as a biological tool with the power to calm pressure, quiet fear, and bring your thinking brain back online. Amy uses real-life examples from Thanksgiving week, relatable stories we all experience in family gatherings, and simple brain science to explain why gratitude works, why we forget to use it in tough moments, and how athletes, parents, and coaches can turn it into a mental reset, on the field and at home. This episode isn’t about pretending everything is fine. It’s about learning how to flip your brain out of stress and into clarity, confidence, and calm. Key Takeaways Gratitude isn’t just a “nice idea,” it’s one of the only emotional states that can shut off anxiety, pressure, and fear in the brain. When the amygdala (your fear center) is active, the prefrontal cortex (your clarity center) goes offline. Gratitude flips that switch. Your brain can’t hold gratitude and fear at the same time, gratitude always wins. The three emotional “light switch” states (dim, dark, and lights on) affect performance, communication, and stress levels. You can train your mind to use gratitude as a reset, even in the moments when it feels hardest to reach for it. Episode Flow Opening Amy shares a relatable Thanksgiving story, the shift from connection and joy to stress, comparison, and irritation and explains why our brains often hijack us in moments meant for gratitude. She reframes gratitude as a privilege and a powerful performance tool available every single day. Why Gratitude Works (And Why We Forget to Use It) A practical, human look at why gratitude is often the last thing we think about when we need it most. Amy explains why the brain defaults to protection mode, and how consciously choosing gratitude slows your breath, quiets your nervous system, and restores confidence and calm. The Brain Science (Made Simple + Human) Amy breaks down the two major players in the brain: The Amygdala: fear, pressure, anxiety, fight-or-flight The Prefrontal Cortex: clarity, confidence, perspective, decision-making She explains why both can’t run the show at the same time… and how gratitude flips the seesaw back toward calm, focus, and clarity. The Three “Light Switch” States Using an analogy of a room and a light switch, Amy explains the three emotional states: Dim Room: your neutral autopilot Dark Room: stress, fear, pressure… amygdala running the show Lights On: gratitude, your best self returns Listeners learn what state they’re in and how to move between them. How to Actually Use Gratitude as a Reset Amy teaches a simple, doable 3-step system to use gratitude in real time, especially during pressure, conflict, mistakes, or emotional intensity. Notice the darkness Choose one real gratitude Hold it for 5–10 seconds This is the moment the “light switch” flips. With practice, this reset becomes faster and more natural. Closing Amy challenges listeners to use gratitude as a daily mental reset this coming week, not just during Thanksgiving, but in the moments of pressure, misunderstanding, stress, or irritation. Gratitude becomes a powerful tool for performance, relationships, mental health, and emotional resilience. She ends with a reminder that gratitude isn’t just holiday tradition, it’s a privilege we carry with us every moment of our lives. Connect with Amy: Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com) Instagram: @asuiter25 Facebook: Amy Suiter Don’t Forget: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a coach, athlete, or parent who wants to grow from the inside out.

5. 

   20 Nov 2025

   14: Are Your Boundaries Protecting You… or Limiting You?

   In this episode, Amy Suiter challenges one of the most common mindset trends we see today, the overuse of “boundaries” in everyday relationships. Not the necessary kind that keep us safe. But the kind we throw up anytime someone annoys us, misunderstands us, or triggers something in us. Amy explores why this “boundary culture” might actually be keeping athletes, parents, and teams stuck, and how the people who frustrate us the most may be the exact ones who help us grow. This episode isn’t about removing boundaries. It’s about replacing walls with self-awareness and learning to see people as mirrors that reveal who we’re becoming. Key Takeaways Boundaries are important for safety, but many everyday “boundaries” are actually avoidance strategies. The people who trigger us often reveal places inside us that still need growth, strength, or awareness. Self-awareness is a stronger form of protection than any wall we can build. When we stay open without abandoning ourselves, relationships become our greatest teachers. Growth comes not from surrounding ourselves with people who think just like us, but from learning how to stay grounded when they don’t. Episode Flow Opening Amy sets the stage for a raw and honest conversation about boundaries, discomfort, and why simply “cutting people out” may be keeping us stuck. A clear disclaimer differentiates this from situations of abuse or danger, today’s episode is about everyday human interactions. The Boundary Culture How society has turned boundaries into walls, walls into echo chambers, and echo chambers into emotional stagnation. Amy explores how this shows up in teams, families, schools, communities, and why avoiding discomfort limits growth. The Trigger Mirror A powerful reframe: what if the people who frustrate us the most are actually our greatest teachers? Amy unpacks how triggers expose unhealed beliefs, old stories, or insecurities and how holding up a mirror instead of putting up a wall can transform our growth. Staying Open Without Losing Yourself Amy explains the difference between openness and losing yourself in someone else's emotions. She teaches how to stay solid in who you are while still being curious about someone else's experience, a skill that deepens emotional intelligence, team chemistry, and leadership. Growth Challenge for the Week A practical set of questions and reflections to help listeners turn real-life moments of tension into personal breakthroughs. Closing Amy wraps with a reminder: boundaries aren’t bad, yet boundaries without self-awareness become walls. True growth comes from learning to stay grounded even when others don’t understand or agree. Connect with Amy Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com)Instagram: @asuiter25 Facebook: Amy Suiter Don’t Forget If this episode encouraged you, challenged you, or opened up a new perspective, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a coach, athlete, or parent who’s ready to grow from the inside out.

6. 

   12 Nov 2025

   13: The Quiet Strength of an Army Ranger

   In this special Veterans Day episode, Amy Suiter shares the story of her father, an Army Ranger during the Vietnam War, whose values of loyalty, integrity, courage, and quiet strength shaped not only his family but every life he touched. This episode is more than a tribute. It’s a reflection on how the lessons passed down from those who serve become the foundation for how we live, coach, parent, and lead. Through her father’s example, Amy reminds us that the most powerful leadership doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it’s the steady, consistent kind that makes others feel safe, inspired, and seen. Key Takeaways True strength isn’t loud. It’s steady, humble, and rooted in integrity. Legacy isn’t about recognition; it’s about living your values so fully that others feel them. The values our veterans live by: loyalty, courage, selflessness, and discipline are the same values that build great athletes, great teams, and great families. We honor those we love by carrying forward the best parts of who they were. Episode Flow Opening Amy introduces her father, an Army Ranger and servant-hearted leader whose quiet presence and unwavering integrity shaped her family’s foundation. The Man Behind the Uniform Stories of love, loyalty, and humility, lessons learned not through speeches, but through steady example. The Values He Carried Home From courage under fire to doing what’s right when no one’s watching, Amy reflects on how military values shaped her father’s life and the people he led. Strength Without Noise Why true leadership isn’t about titles or volume. It’s about consistency, character, and showing up for your people. Passing the Torch How her dad’s legacy continues through the lives he touched, and how those same values can guide today’s athletes, coaches, and parents. Closing A heartfelt thank-you to all who have served, and an invitation to carry forward the light, loyalty, and love that define a life of honor. Connect with Amy: Website: www.amysuiter.com (https://www.amysuiter.com) Instagram: @asuiter25 Facebook: Amy Suiter Don’t Forget: If this episode spoke to you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a reminder of what real leadership and courage look like.

7. 

   4 Nov 2025

   12: Is Your Imagination Using You...Or Are You Using It?

   In this episode, Amy explores one of the most overlooked powers in sports and life… imagination. It’s the invisible force that shapes your confidence, your fears, and your results, whether you realize it or not. Amy breaks down how imagination can either hold you back or move you forward, depending on who’s giving it orders, your unconscious mind (which keeps you safe and the same) or your conscious mind (which leads you toward growth and goals). If you’ve ever caught yourself replaying mistakes, imagining failure before it happens, or feeling stuck in “what-ifs,” this episode will help you flip the script and start using your imagination as a tool for performance and confidence, not self-sabotage. Whether you’re an athlete stepping into a big moment, a coach guiding a team through pressure, or a parent trying to help your athlete believe again, you’ll walk away with a new understanding of how to train your imagination to work for you instead of against you. Key Takeaways: Imagination is always working, the question is: who’s it working for? When imagination works for the unconscious mind, it builds fear-based movies designed to keep you safe, stuck, and the same. When imagination works for the conscious mind, it becomes your inner practice field, strengthening belief, confidence, and focus. The brain doesn’t know the difference between real and imagined experiences, what you visualize repeatedly becomes familiar to your nervous system. You can retrain your imagination by noticing when it’s working against you and consciously giving it a new mission that aligns with your goals. In This Episode: Opening Amy introduces the “superhero” of this episode, imagination and how it can either limit or launch your performance depending on who’s in charge. When Imagination Works for the Unconscious How your brain’s survival system recruits imagination to keep you the same, and why resistance, doubt, and “you’re tired” thoughts are signs that your mind is just trying to protect you from change. The Science Behind It Amy explains why the brain reacts the same way to imagined experiences as it does to real ones and how elite athletes use visualization to make success feel familiar before it ever happens. When Imagination Works for the Conscious Mind What happens when you intentionally direct your imagination toward what you want instead of what you fear. Amy shares how visualization becomes a mental rehearsal that fires the same neural pathways as physical practice. Real-Life Example A powerful story of a volleyball athlete who learned to flip her imagination from fear to focus and how that simple shift changed her game and her confidence. The Challenge Amy leaves listeners with a challenge: notice when imagination is working for the wrong boss, then take it back. You get to decide what story your mind is rehearsing, one of fear or one of faith, one of survival and one of success. Connect with Amy: Website: www.amysuiter.com (https://www.amysuiter.com) Instagram: @asuiter25 Facebook: Amy Suiter Don’t Forget: If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a coach, athlete, or parent who’s ready to grow their mindset and use imagination as a tool for success.

8. 

   28 Oct 2025

   11: You Can't Outperform What You Don't Believe

   Episode Summary: In this episode, Amy dives deep into one of the most powerful truths in sports and life: you can’t outperform what you don’t believe. If you’ve ever known you have the talent, and when it matters most, something shifts, this one’s for you. Amy breaks down why effort alone isn’t enough, how the brain clings to familiar patterns even when they don’t serve us, and how to start rewiring belief so your results finally align with your potential. Whether you’re an athlete who’s tired of feeling stuck, a coach trying to rebuild team confidence, or a parent watching your athlete wrestle with self-doubt, this episode will help you understand the battle beneath the scoreboard and give you the tools to change it. Key Takeaways: Belief drives behavior... your brain’s job is not to make you happy; it’s to make you right. When belief wavers, the instinct is to “do more,” but more effort on top of old beliefs only reinforces the same results. Confidence grows when your thoughts, emotions, and actions align with what you want to believe, not what you fear is true. The 5-Step Belief Rewire process helps athletes and coaches shift from trying harder to believing smarter. Real transformation doesn’t come from becoming someone new... it comes from remembering who you already are. In This Episode: (0:00–1:30) — Opening Amy introduces the episode with a powerful reminder that belief is the foundation of performance. Hard work and talent mean nothing if your mind doesn’t believe the story you’re trying to live out. (1:30–4:30) — The Battle Beneath the Scoreboard Why good teams with talent and drive still fall short — and how the brain’s self-fulfilling prophecies quietly shape outcomes. Amy explores how belief systems form, how they spread through teams, and why inconsistency erodes confidence faster than failure. (4:30–6:30) — Why “More” Doesn’t Fix It When things go wrong, we default to “We just need more — more effort, more focus, more energy.” Amy explains why more isn’t the solution and how alignment, not addition, is what truly rewires belief. (6:30–11:00) — How to Rewire Belief: The 5-Step Empowered Belief Process Amy walks through her step-by-step system for creating and aligning belief with results. 1️⃣ Define the Target 2️⃣ Create Empowered Beliefs 3️⃣ Create Action Steps for Each Belief 4️⃣ Schedule Your Action Steps 5️⃣ Measure and Adjust Download the free Empowered Belief Builder Worksheet to put these steps into action. It’s simple, printable, and perfect for athletes, parents, and coaches to use with your teams. amysuiter.com/beliefbuilder (https://www.amysuiter.com/beliefbuilder) (11:00–13:00) — Renewing the Mind — Living From Belief Amy ties in Romans 12:2, showing how transformation begins with renewing the mind. When thoughts, actions, and emotions align, athletes stop trying to prove who they are and start performing from who they already are. (13:00–14:00) — Closing Amy closes with a powerful reminder that your results will always rise or fall to the level of your belief and invites listeners to start training their belief system as intentionally as they train their bodies. Free Resource: The Empowered Belief Builder Worksheet Take the five steps from this episode and put them into action. Map out your target, write your empowered beliefs, plan your action steps, and track your progress week by week. 👉 Download it free at amysuiter.com/beliefbuilder (https://www.amysuiter.com/beliefbuilder) Connect with Amy: Website: www.amysuiter.com (https://www.amysuiter.com) Instagram: @asuiter25 (https://www.instagram.com/asuiter25) Facebook: Amy Suiter (https://www.facebook.com/amy.suiter.1) Don’t Forget: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a coach, athlete, or parent who’s ready to grow their belief and their game.

9. 

   16 Oct 2025

   10: Why Confidence Feels So Hard

   In this episode Amy unpacks one of the biggest confidence myths in sports, the idea that confidence can just disappear. You know those moments when an athlete looks unstoppable one day and completely disconnected the next? Amy explains what’s really happening inside the mind when confidence “vanishes,” why it’s not gone at all, and how to find it again. Through one of her favorite analogies… The Pantry in Your Mind, Amy shows athletes, parents, and coaches how the brain stores every experience, good and bad, like jars on a shelf. The secret is learning which side you’re reaching for when the pressure is on. This episode will help you (and your athlete) understand where confidence goes, how to access it on purpose, and what to do when self-doubt tries to take over. Key Takeaways: Why confidence doesn’t disappear, it gets stored. How your brain’s “pantry” determines what emotion you feel in big moments. The difference between right-side and left-side jars (and how to switch sides). How parents and coaches can help athletes recognize which side they’re operating from. A simple awareness practice that helps athletes build confidence intentionally. Resources Mentioned: Free Coaching Video: 3-Step Right Side Pantry Video (http://www.amysuiter.com/pantryvideo) Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com) Growing Athletes Membership (https://www.amysuiter.com/growing-athletes-membership): Mindset tools and coaching for athletes, parents, and coaches. The Growing Athletes Podcast (https://www.amysuiter.com/podcasts/growing-athletes-podcast) archive: More episodes on mindset, confidence, and personal growth. Connect with Amy: Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com) Instagram: @asuiter25 (https://instagram.com/asuiter25) Facebook: Amy Suiter (https://www.facebook.com/amy.suiter.1) Don’t Forget: If this episode helped you see confidence in a new way, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another athlete, parent, or coach who could use this reminder: Confidence isn’t gone… it’s just waiting on the right side of your pantry.

10. 

    24 Sept 2025

    9: Let Them Feel It: Guiding Athletes Through Failure Without Shame

    Amy unpacks one of the hardest but most important parts of raising and coaching athletes: guiding them through failure without layering on shame. Too often, adults jump in with “shake it off” or “don’t act like that,” trying to protect confidence or team energy. But as Amy explains, those quick fixes don’t build resilience, they teach athletes to doubt or hide their emotions. Instead, Amy shows how frustration, anger, and even sadness are not problems to erase, but signals to understand. She introduces the Animal Matrix framework for understanding how different athletes process frustration, why shame quietly sabotages confidence and leadership, and how parents and coaches can use responsibility, not shame, to help athletes reset and grow. This episode will give you both the mindset shift and practical tools to help your athlete turn Key Takeaways: Why emotions aren’t problems, they’re signals, and why suppressing them backfires. How athletes process frustration differently (Fox, Cat, Lion, Squirrel, Dog, Wolf) and what they need to hear in those moments. The hidden cost of shame, and how it shrinks confidence, silences leadership, and drains joy from sports. The difference between responsibility and shame when coaching through mistakes. The 4-Step Reset System athletes can use to move through frustration in real time. Resources Mentioned: Take the Animal Quiz: www.amysuiter.com/animalquiz (http://www.amysuiter.com/animalquiz) Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com) Growing Athletes Membership (https://www.amysuiter.com/growing-athletes-membership): Mindset tools and coaching for athletes, parents, and coaches. The Growing Athletes Podcast archive (https://www.amysuiter.com/podcasts/growing-athletes-podcast): More episodes on mindset, confidence, and personal growth (Including Podcast #7: How to Communicate So Athletes Will Listen) What’s Next: Amy will continue sharing mindset frameworks that change the way athletes, parents, and coaches approach sports, helping you see emotions not as weaknesses, but as signals for growth, connection, and resilience. Connect with Amy: Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com) Instagram: @asuiter25 (https://instagram.com/asuiter25) Facebook: Amy Suiter (https://www.facebook.com/amy.suiter.1) Don’t Forget: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another athlete, parent, or coach who wants to raise confident, resilient, and joyful young people.

11. 

    16 Sept 2025

    8: The Charlie Kirk Reflection

    Episode Summary: In this episode, Amy reflects on the passing of Charlie Kirk and the firestorm of reactions it sparked online. Some people admired his courage and conviction, while others poured out anger and hate. But as Amy explains, those reactions weren’t really about Charlie—they were mirrors of the state of mind, heart, and alignment of the people responding. Amy dives into why emotions like jealousy, anger, and resentment are not random—they’re signals pointing us inward. She explores how the “maybe questions” we avoid often reveal our true calling, why we cling to old thinking patterns even when they keep us stuck, and how Charlie’s life became a mirror that unsettled many. This episode is a reminder that fulfillment doesn’t come from the outside world, groups, or narratives. It comes from taking responsibility for our lives, choosing how we respond to circumstances, and aligning with the truth already inside of us. Key Takeaways: Why people’s reactions to Charlie Kirk revealed more about themselves than about him. How emotions like anger, jealousy, or resentment are mirrors showing us what’s unsettled inside. The power of pausing to ask “maybe questions” and how they point us toward our true calling. Why our brains cling to old thinking patterns—even when they keep us miserable. How Charlie’s life became a mirror that exposed the gap between people’s values and their lived reality. Why true fulfillment doesn’t come from the outside world, but from taking responsibility, choosing our responses, and aligning with who we really are. Resources Mentioned: Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com) Growing Athletes Membership (https://www.amysuiter.com/growing-athletes-membership): Mindset tools and coaching for athletes, parents, and coaches. The Growing Athletes Podcast (https://www.amysuiter.com/podcasts/growing-athletes-podcast) archive: More episodes on mindset, confidence, and personal growth. What’s Next: Amy will continue exploring how mindset training changes the game for athletes and families—helping you recognize what’s already inside of you and giving you the tools to live it out fully. Connect with Amy: Website: www.amysuiter.com (http://www.amysuiter.com) Instagram: @asuiter25 (https://www.instagram.com/asuiter25) Facebook: Amy Suiter (https://www.facebook.com/amy.suiter.1) Don’t Forget: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with other athletes, parents, and coaches who want to live with more confidence, joy, and alignment.

12. 

    24 Apr 2025

    7: How to Communicate So Athletes Will Listen: Animal Matrix Insights

    Episode Title: 7: How to Communicate So Athletes Will Listen: Animal Matrix Insights Episode Summary: In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most powerful tools for coaches, parents, and anyone who works with athletes: communication. Discover how 95% of our thoughts and emotions are on autopilot and how this impacts communication, especially in high-pressure sports environments. Learn how to adapt your communication style to truly connect with your athlete and help them thrive. Plus, Amy introduces her Animal Matrix, a groundbreaking framework that categorizes athletes based on their Focus (Outer or Inner Driven) and Confidence Levels (Low, Moderate, or High). This tool will help you understand your athlete’s mindset and tailor your communication to resonate with them effectively. Key Takeaways: Why communication often breaks down in sports and how to fix it. How emotions and unconscious thoughts influence reactions and interactions. The two key factors that shape an athlete’s communication style: Focus Types and Confidence Levels. Introduction to the six Athlete Animal Types: Squirrel, Dog, Wolf, Fox, Cat, and Lion. How to identify your athlete’s Animal Type and adjust your approach to meet them where they are. Why understanding your athlete’s current mindset is crucial for their growth and potential. Athlete Animal Types Overview: Outer Driven Athletes: Squirrel (Low Confidence): Analytical, hesitant, and eager to please. Dog (Moderate Confidence): Empathetic, relationship-focused, and loyal. Wolf (High Confidence): Purpose-driven, team-oriented, and strategic. Inner Driven Athletes: Fox (Low Confidence): Cautious, clever, and values trust and accountability. Cat (Moderate Confidence): Independent, self-critical, and values personal space. Lion (High Confidence): Bold, competitive, and thrives under pressure. Resources Mentioned: Animal Matrix Quiz: Discover your athlete’s type and gain personalized insights at www.amysuiter.com/animalquiz (https://www.amysuiter.com/animalquiz). Free Quick Guide: Get actionable tips tailored to your athlete’s type after completing the quiz. What’s Next: This is just the beginning! In upcoming episodes, Amy will dive deeper into each Athlete Animal Type, exploring their unique strengths, challenges, and strategies for better communication both on and off the field. Connect with Amy: Website: www.amysuiter.com (https://www.amysuiter.com/) Instagram: @asuiter25 (https://www.instagram.com/asuiter25) Facebook: Amy Suiter Coaching (https://www.facebook.com/amysuitercoaching) Don’t Forget: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with other parents, coaches, and supporters who want to help their athletes reach their full potential. See you next time!

13. 

    25 Feb 2025

    6: Overcoming Self-Doubt

    Episode Summary: Many athletes struggle with self-doubt—the fear of failure and the feeling that they don’t measure up. In this episode, we break down where self-doubt comes from and how to reprogram your mind with practical steps to build confidence from the inside out. Key Topics Covered: ✅ What is self-doubt? That inner voice that whispers, “You’re not good enough.” ✅ How the brain creates limiting beliefs and why our negativity bias keeps us stuck. ✅ Fear of failure and judgment—how survival instincts are still influencing your confidence today. ✅ The danger of comparison—social media, teammates, and competitors fuel self-doubt. ✅ Practical steps to rewire your brain and turn self-doubt into confidence. Real-Life Example: 🏀 A young basketball player avoids layups because of self-doubt: “I always shoot too hard and miss.” His brain is protecting him from embarrassment. By recognizing the thought, questioning it, and taking action, he reprograms his confidence and transforms his game. How to Reprogram Your Mind to Overcome Self-Doubt: 1️⃣ Awareness – Pay attention to your feelings; they signal limiting beliefs. 2️⃣ Question the thought – Is this story serving you or holding you back? 3️⃣ Tell yourself a better story – Shift your self-talk to create a better story. 4️⃣ Take action anyway – Prove to your brain that failure is not a threat but instead your path to success. Take the Next Step: Confidence Reboot Workshop: Reprogram Your Mind for Success – A 45-minute online workshop to help you transform self-doubt into confidence. Check it out at amysuiter.com/confidenceworkshop (https://www.amysuiter.com/confidenceworkshop)

14. 

    18 Feb 2025

    5: Bringing Dreams to Life with Role Models

    Episode Overview: In this episode of the Role Model Podcast, we explore the transformative power of choosing the right role models. Discover how to harness the qualities of those you admire to create the best version of yourself. Through personal stories and practical steps we help you to identify and learn from role models who align with your values and aspirations. Key Takeaways: Accept Your Desires: Recognize that your dreams and desires choose you for a reason. Trust that you have the potential to bring them to life. Build Beliefs Through Observation: Witnessing others achieve what you aspire to do plants seeds of belief. Surround yourself with people who are living your dreams. Choose the Right Role Models: Look for role models who embody the qualities you want to develop. Remember, no one is perfect; learn from multiple people. Embrace Multiple Role Models: Draw inspiration from various individuals to become well-rounded. Different role models bring different lessons. Put It Into Action: Actively integrate these lessons into your life. Identify your dreams, immerse yourself in inspiring environments, and take action. Special Resource: To help you implement these steps, we created a worksheet available at amysuiter.com/rolemodel (https://www.amysuiter.com/rolemodel). Use it as you listen or reflect on today’s episode. Final Thoughts: Dream big, surround yourself with inspiration, and let the power of role models guide you toward your highest potential. You have everything you need within you to make those dreams a reality. Now, get chasing! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating our podcast with five stars and sharing it with others who might benefit from these insights. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue to provide valuable content.

15. 

    13 Jun 2024

    4: You Are On Your Perfect Path

    In this inspiring episode, we dive into the journey of pursuing your dreams and the challenges that come with it. Have you ever felt like you're doing all the right things but the results are taking forever to show up? You're not alone! Join me as I explore the common feelings of self-doubt and frustration that arise when progress seems slow. We'll discuss the importance of persistence and the power of staying in action, even when the path forward isn't clear. Highlights: Navigating self-doubt and the temptation to quit when results are slow. Embracing the mantra, "nothing worth doing is easy," and pushing through the hard times. Understanding that the journey, not the destination, is where the true joy lies. Trusting your intuition and being open to unexpected paths that may lead to your next opportunity. Personal stories of overcoming obstacles and staying on the perfect path, including my journey from a young dreamer to a mindset coach. Discover how to stay present, appreciate your progress, and keep moving forward, no matter the detours. Remember, every step you take is part of your unique and perfect path. Tune in and get motivated to keep becoming the best version of yourself! Stay in action, stay present, and enjoy the journey. You are always on your perfect path! For more content and information visit me at amysuiter.com.

16. 

    7 Mar 2024

    3: Are You A Ceiling Buster?

    Dreams often feel distant, unattainable, especially when they're so far away from who we currently perceive ourselves to be. In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we delve into the psychology behind why we set 'realistic goals' that fall short of our true dreams. Drawing from personal experiences and observations, our host explores how societal norms and personal backgrounds shape our perception of what's achievable. From the aspiring athlete with humble beginnings to the child born into a legacy of sports excellence, we unravel the invisible ceilings that cap our potential. Through compelling examples and insightful analysis, we challenge listeners to reimagine their own ceilings and dare to reach higher. Whether you're a parent, coach, or striving athlete, this episode serves as a rallying cry to embrace courage, discard 'realistic goals,' and pursue dreams with unwavering courage. Join us as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, breaking through ceilings, and ascending to new heights, one floor at a time. For more content and information visit me at amysuiter.com (https://www.amysuiter.com/).

17. 

    27 Feb 2024

    2: Change Your Story

    Join us in this episode on Growing Athletes Podcast, where we dive into the world of storytelling, not the stories we read or hear, but the stories we tell ourselves. Host Amy Suiter explores how the stories we tell ourselves shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, often without us even realizing it. Drawing from personal experiences and coaching insights, we uncover the hidden power behind our stories. From automatic responses to everyday situations to deeply ingrained beliefs about ourselves and our circumstances, every story we create influences our reality. Through life and sport examples, including the scenario of a sibling barging into your room or being left out of the starting lineup, we examine how these stories mold our perceptions and dictate our actions. But amidst these challenges lies the opportunity for transformation – the power to rewrite our stories for the better. Discover how changing the stories we tell ourselves can lead to profound shifts in our lives, relationships, and overall well-being. Learn practical strategies for recognizing and reframing old narratives that no longer serve us, empowering ourselves and those around us in the process. Tune in to this episode and unlock the key to changing your story, changing your life. It's time to embrace the power of internal storytelling and embark on a journey of growth, resilience, and happiness. For more content and information visit me at amysuiter.com (https://www.amysuiter.com/).

18. 

    17 Feb 2024

    1: Decoding Fear of Failure: The Key to Conquering It!

    Welcome to this week's episode, where we dive deep into the depths of fear of failure. Join me as we explore its origins and discover the strategies to conquer it. As I was scrolling through the endless depths of social media, I couldn't help but ponder the significance of failure in our lives. What if, instead of showcasing only our successes, we celebrated our failures openly and courageously? Imagine a world where every highlight reel included the challenges and failures that led to those incredible moments. What if failure wasn't feared but embraced as an essential stepping stone towards growth? Our journey begins with a closer look at the workings of our unconscious mind. This powerful force within us is programmed to maintain the status quo, keeping us safe and comfortable in familiar territory. However, it often lacks the understanding to distinguish between what's truly beneficial for our growth and what simply serves to keep us alive and well. Consider the story of a talented high school athlete navigating the treacherous waters of basketball tryouts. Despite his athleticism and dedication, he found himself consumed by the fear of failure, unconsciously clinging to familiarity rather than embracing the challenge of growth. Little did he know, his resistance to failure was merely a manifestation of his unconscious mind's efforts to keep him from changing, as this is its job. But fear not, for there is a path forward. I challenged him to confront his fears head-on, to embrace failure as a necessary part of the journey towards improvement. And though the journey may be full of uncertainty and discomfort, each failure brings us one step closer to our goals. The key lies in recognizing that resistance is a sign of progress. As we venture outside our comfort zones, our unconscious mind may rebel, flooding us with doubts and excuses. But with each hurdle overcome, we emerge stronger, more resilient, and more prepared to face the challenges ahead. So, for all of you listening, let us answer the call to embrace failure with open arms. Let us recognize that growth lies not in the pursuit of perfection but in the willingness to stumble and fall along the way. Remember, the path to success is paved with failures, each one bringing us closer to our ultimate destination. Thank you for joining me and until next time, remember to embrace failure, for it is truly the key to conquering it. For more content and information visit me at amysuiter.com (https://www.amysuiter.com/).

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.0 / 5

4 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

10 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 20 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

19

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

51