In this episode of Charge Forward Coaching, host James Blasco tackles the challenge of dealing with external critics and "dream killers" who attempt to derail your ambitious goals. As a certified Mental Toughness and Resilience Coach, James shares powerful strategies to help you build mental fortitude, emphasizing the importance of challenge, commitment, emotional control, and self-confidence.

• (00:00) Introduction to external critics and their impact
• (02:05) Types of external critics: Intentional vs. unintentional
• (04:06) Psychological and physiological impacts of criticism
• (05:38) The Four C’s of Mental Toughness: Commitment, Challenge, Control, Confidence
• (07:10) Emotional control techniques: Deep breathing and a self-interview
• (09:42) Building and maintaining self-confidence
• (11:14) Spud Webb's story: Overcoming doubters

• The Interview Technique: Step outside yourself mentally and interview your emotions to gain perspective on criticism. Ask why you feel a certain way and what might be driving the critic's behavior.
• Confidence in Hidden Progress: Maintain self-belief by recognizing that critics don't see your daily efforts and improvements. Your commitment and plan are yours alone - let results speak for themselves.
• Criticism as Learning Opportunity: View criticism as a chance to practice emotional control, goal focus, and confidence-building. It's an opportunity to learn about yourself and even the critic.

• Take the MTQ Plus Mental Toughness Assessment: MTQ Assessments | Charge Forward Coaching
• Learn more or book a free discovery call: www.chargeforwardcoaching.com
• Follow on Instagram: @chargeforwardcoaching
• Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chargeforwardcoaching/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChargeForwardCoaching/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChargeForwardCoaching

James Blasco is the founder of Charge Forward Coaching and a certified mental toughness and resilience coach. He specializes in helping athletes and high performers sharpen their focus, build confidence, and stay composed under pressure. With clients ranging from youth athletes to seasoned pros, James is passionate about helping people show up strong—no matter the arena.

James Blasco, mental toughness, goal setting, external criticism, dream killers, self-confidence, emotional control, challenge orientation, performance psychology, athlete mindset, resilience, self-belief, overcoming doubt, sports psychology, personal development, goal achievement, handling...

Looking to boost your mental game? In just 10 minutes, coach James Blasco unpacks the key traits that define resilient athletes. Using real-life inspiration and the science behind grit, he reveals how the 4C’s of mental toughness: Control, Commitment, Challenge, and Confidence can transform your mindset. Take the MTQ Plus assessment, available on the Charge Forward Coaching website or book a free discovery call with James Blasco for personalized coaching today.

Key Timestamps:

• (00:00) Introduction to resilience and its significance
• (01:39) Defining resilience and grit: Insights from Angela Duckworth’s book, Grit
• (03:11) The remarkable comeback story of Alex Zanardi: Overcoming adversity
• (04:36) From Formula 1 to Paralympian: Alex Zanardi’s positive growth mindset
• (06:44) The four Cs of mental toughness: Control, Commitment, Challenge, and Confidence
• (07:45) MTQ Plus Assessment: Practical advice for improving personal resilience on and off the field

• Resilience Defined: Passion and perseverance are key, as highlighted by Angela Duckworth in her book Grit.
• Inspiration from Adversity: Alex Zanardi's comeback story exemplifies the power of a growth mindset and determination.
• The Four Cs: Control emotions, Commit to goals, embrace Challenges, and build Confidence to enhance resilience.
• Passion as a Lifelong Focus: True resilience stems from a deep, enduring passion that becomes your life's central focus, not just a fleeting interest or hobby.
• Reframing Setbacks as Learning Opportunities: Champions view setbacks not as roadblocks, but as chances to grow and adapt, fueling their journey forward.
• Confidence as Resilience Fuel: Self-belief acts as the essential fuel for resilience, powering you through challenges and towards your goals.
• Actionable Strategies: Use the MTQ Plus Assessment to identify and improve areas of mental toughness.

• Take the MTQ Plus Mental Toughness Assessment: MTQ Assessments | Charge Forward Coaching
• Learn more or book a free discovery call: www.chargeforwardcoaching.com
• Follow on Instagram: @chargeforwardcoaching
• Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chargeforwardcoaching/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChargeForwardCoaching/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChargeForwardCoaching

James Blasco is the founder of Charge Forward Coaching and a certified mental toughness and resilience coach. He specializes in helping athletes and high performers sharpen their focus, build confidence, and stay composed under...

In this episode of Charge Forward Coaching, host James Blasco is joined by racing legend, Mario Andretti, to explore the mindset and desire that fueled his illustrious career from age 19 to age 60. Throughout their thrilling conversation, Mario shares details about his early life in Italy where he discovered his life’s passion after witnessing the 1954 Italian Grand Prix. Andretti also shares insights into the mental toughness required to thrive in high-stakes racing, including his mindset to overcome the danger on the track, confidence and proving oneself, experiencing failure, and maintaining focus and commitment both on the track and throughout his career. Whether you’re a race car driver or a motorsports fan, you can’t miss this packed episode, full of legendary insight and reflection from the Driver of the Century.

• (00:00) Introduction: Meet Mario Andretti
• (02:10) Mario Andretti's early life
• (03:31) The mold was cast: Mario witnessed his first race, the 1954 Italian Grand Prix
• (04:28) Despite major obstacles and setbacks, Mario and his twin, Aldo Andretti, began building race cars to pursue their dreams
• (06:13) Maintaining focus and commitment both on the track and throughout his decades-long career
• (08:40) Dealing with danger and loss in motorsports
• (11:05) Mario’s take on confidence and proving oneself
• (16:25) Mindset, failure, and success in racing
• (17:56) Upcoming F1 team plans
• (19:14) What’s in the water in Lehigh Valley
• (20:16) Looking Back: memorable career achievements
• (21:27) The race of all races: 1978 Formula One World Championship in Monza

• Passion Drives Success: Andretti emphasizes that desire and passion are crucial for maintaining focus and commitment in any career.
• Confidence is Key: Believing in oneself, especially when facing physical or mental challenges, is essential for proving your worth.
• Embrace Failure: Viewing setbacks as learning opportunities helps build resilience and fosters growth.
• Mindset Matters: A positive outlook and the ability to adapt to challenges are vital for long-term success.

• Mario Andretti’s Career Highlights: https://marioandretti.com/career-highlights
• Take the MTQ Plus Mental Toughness Assessment: MTQ Assessments | Charge Forward Coaching
• Relentless Book Tim Grover
• Learn more or book a free discovery call: www.chargeforwardcoaching.com
• Follow on Instagram: @chargeforwardcoaching
• Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify,

Mental toughness, attention control, and mastering focus under pressure are what separate great athletes from average ones. In this episode of Charge Forward Coaching, host James Blasco, a certified mental toughness and resilience coach, unpacks the strategies elite athletes use to stay locked in—even when the stakes are sky high.

From building powerful routines to developing emotional control and sharpening focus and concentration, James talks about the practical tools that athletes, coaches, and driven individuals can apply immediately. Whether you're on the field, on the court, or in the boardroom, these strategies will help you set goals, block out distractions, and thrive when it matters most.

Key Timestamps:

• (00:00) The real reason goal setting is crucial under pressure
• (01:32) What is attention control—and why does it matter so much?
• (02:06) Tim Grover’s lessons from training Michael Jordan
• (03:00) The role of emotional awareness in high-pressure moments
• (04:15) Why repetition is the backbone of mental toughness
• (05:30) Routines: how they eliminate stress and boost focus
• (06:23) What’s your B-plan when things go off-script?
• (08:00) Managing stress fatigue—mentally and physically
• (09:36) The science of attention spans (and how you can improve yours)
• (10:30) Discover your focus strengths with the MTQ Plus Assessment

• Clarity Beats Chaos: Having a clear goal keeps you grounded during high-stress moments.
• Routines Build Strength: Pre-game and post-game routines improve consistency and reduce decision fatigue.
• Focus is Trainable: You can improve attention control through small daily practices—yes, even video games can help.
• Pressure Reveals Preparation: If you’ve done the reps, your mind and body will know what to do when it counts.

• Take the MTQ Plus Mental Toughness Assessment: MTQ Assessments | Charge Forward Coaching
• Relentless Book Tim Grover
• Learn more or book a free discovery call: www.chargeforwardcoaching.com
• Follow on Instagram: @chargeforwardcoaching
• Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms

Mental Toughness, Goal Setting, Attention Control, Focus and Concentration,...

On Charge Forward Coaching, host James Blasco is joined by Rod Perry, PGA Professional National Champion and elite golf instructor, to explore what separates good athletes from great ones: emotional control, focus, consistency, and a powerful mental game. From the lessons learned on the PGA Tour to what he teaches junior golfers in Daytona Beach, Rod shares high-performance strategies that apply far beyond the golf course. Whether you're an athlete, coach, parent, or weekend warrior, this episode will leave you motivated to play—and live—at your highest level.

• (0:00) Rod Perry on why elite golfers master their emotion
• (1:19) James Blasco introduces Rod: PGA Professional National Champion, 7-time major player, and respected coach
• (2:47) How Rod fell in love with golf through his grandfather
• (4:00) Turning point: Playing 36 holes a day over spring break
• (5:06) The power of staying emotionally even: Why Tiger Woods and Rory approach it differently
• (7:00) Why "consistency" is a myth—and what golfers should actually aim for
• (8:36) The two types of focus: Nick Faldo vs. Lee Trevino
• (10:12) Use trigger words to re-engage your attention before every shot
• (11:36) Building a mental “bubble” during high-stakes tournament play
• (13:00) How to process rounds constructively: set specific, tangible goals
• (16:36) Scottie Scheffler's secret: Proximity to the hole -driving distance
• (18:18) Rod on finding his late-career success as a PGA pro
• (19:30) Most special moment: His son Carson playing at Augusta for Drive, Chip & Putt
• (20:36) Junior golf in Daytona: leagues, clinics, and eliminating barriers to entry
• (22:54) Why golf is a lifelong advantage: personal, professional, and even political
• (26:42) Final advice to young golfers: Start early, play often, and focus on relationships

• Emotional neutrality fuels high performance—stay centered, not hyped or frustrated.
• Attention control is a skill. Use verbal triggers to enter focus mode, then relax between shots.
• Stats matter. Focus your practice on one clear, measurable skill at a time.
• Golf is a lifelong game—and a great way to build confidence, relationships, and even careers.
• Junior access matters. Coaches and communities must break down barriers for the next generation.

• Learn more about Rod Perry: Crane Lakes Golf & Country Club
• Explore Charge Forward Coaching: www.chargeforwardcoaching.com
• Follow James Blasco on Instagram: @chargeforwardcoaching
• Subscribe to Charge Forward Coaching: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms

Rod Perry is a PGA Professional, 2012 & 2013 PGA Professional National Champion, and one of the most respected golf instructors in the U.S. Based in Daytona Beach, Florida, Rod serves as the head golf professional at Crane Lakes and is passionately involved in junior golf development, coaching, and competitive play.

Rod Perry, James Blasco, Charge Forward Coaching, Golf Mental Game, Focus and Discipline, PGA Professional National...

In this episode of the Charge Forward Coaching Podcast, James Blasco dives into the final installment of the 4 C’s of Mental Toughness: Confidence. He breaks down two essential aspects of confidence that can change your approach to life and leadership – Confidence in Abilities and Interpersonal Confidence. Discover how mental mindset influences athletes and professionals alike, and learn how to harness confidence to reduce anxiety and improve performance. Whether you're focused on athletics or looking to grow personally, this episode will show you how to build a strong growth mindset to take on life’s challenges.

• (00:00) Introduction to Confidence and the 4 C’s of Mental Toughness
• (01:10) Confidence in Abilities: Building Self-Belief for Success
• (03:23) Interpersonal Confidence: Building Positive Connections with Others
• (06:04) Wrapping Up: How Confidence Shapes Your Success in Coaching and Life

• Confidence in Abilities: The foundation of Mental Toughness comes from believing in your ability to perform well, especially under pressure. This self-belief is cultivated through experience, preparation, and maintaining a growth mindset.
• Interpersonal Confidence: Confidence isn't just about self-belief; it's about how you interact with others. Whether you’re in sports coaching or business, interpersonal confidence helps you communicate effectively and build rapport to achieve goals.
• Growth Mindset: James Blasco emphasizes that a growth mindset is crucial in building Mental Toughness. Learning from failure and embracing challenges is what sets athletes and leaders apart from the rest.
• Overcoming Anxiety: When you build confidence in your preparation and abilities, anxiety becomes easier to manage. Whether it’s in athletics or personal development, confidence gives you the power to handle pressure and perform at your best.

• Charge Forward Coaching Website: www.chargeforwardcoaching.com
• Book a free discovery call with James Blasco and access coaching services

James Blasco is the host of the Charge Forward Coaching Podcast, where he shares invaluable strategies for building Mental Toughness. With years of experience working with athletes and coaching professionals across various fields, James Blasco empowers individuals and teams to unlock their full potential through the power of confidence, mental mindset, and the growth mindset. He offers personalized coaching and free discovery calls to help individuals push through barriers and achieve their goals.

James Blasco, Charge Forward Coaching, sports coaching, mental mindset, Mental Toughness, Growth Mindset, Athletes, Confidence, Mental Toughness, Self-Belief, Personal Growth, Anxiety, Coaching, Personal Development, Leadership, Confidence Building, Mindset

In this episode of the Charge Forward Coaching Podcast, James Blasco explores the third pillar of mental toughness—the power of Challenge. He dives into why challenges are essential for growth, how risk and learning orientation shape success, and how athletes and high performers overcome obstacles. Using Super Bowl moments as inspiration, James breaks down practical strategies to embrace challenges and build a winning mindset.

• (00:00) Introduction to the Four C’s of Mental Toughness
• (01:02) The Importance of Challenge in Achieving Success
• (02:15) Super Bowl Stories: Learning from Elite Athletes
• (03:30) The Two Key Elements of Challenge: Risk & Learning Orientation
• (05:12) Turning Failures into Wins: The Growth Process
• (06:30) How Coaching Helps Develop Mental Toughness

• Challenges Drive Growth – Facing difficulties head-on strengthens mental toughness.
• Risk Orientation is Key – Viewing challenges as opportunities leads to success.
• Learn from Every Experience – Wins and losses both contribute to personal development.
• Coaching Can Accelerate Progress – Guidance and accountability help shape a resilient mindset.

James Blasco is a mindset and performance coach at Charge Forward Coaching. With years of experience helping individuals build mental toughness, he specializes in guiding clients through personal growth and success. His coaching focuses on the Four C’s of Mental Toughness—Commitment, Control, Challenge, and Confidence—to help people break barriers and achieve their goals.

Book a Free Discovery Call: www.ChargeForwardCoaching.com

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share. Keep charging forward.

James Blasco, Charge Forward Coaching, sports coaching, mental mindset, Mental Toughness, Growth Mindset, Athletes, Success, Super Bowl, Personal Development, Charge Forward, Mindset Matters, Self-Improvement

In this episode of the Charge Forward Coaching Podcast, James Blasco explores the second pillar of mental toughness—Commitment. He breaks down the two critical elements of commitment: goal orientation and achievement orientation. Learn why setting clear goals, taking consistent action, and overcoming procrastination are essential for long-term success. Whether you're an athlete or striving for personal growth, this episode provides actionable strategies to strengthen your commitment and push through challenges.

• (00:00) Introduction to the Four C’s of Mental Toughness
• (00:30) What is Commitment and Why It Matters
• (01:15) The Two Elements of Commitment: Goal & Achievement Orientation
• (02:45) The Power of Writing Down Your Goals
• (04:00) Overcoming Procrastination and Staying on Track
• (06:30) How Coaching Can Help Build Commitment

• Goal Orientation is Essential – Clearly define, write down, and review your goals regularly.
• Achievement Orientation Requires Grit – Passion and perseverance are key to pushing forward.
• Procrastination is the Enemy of Success – Taking action, even when uncomfortable, is crucial.
• Coaching Provides Accountability – Having a coach can help guide, motivate, and support your journey.

James Blasco is a mindset and performance coach at Charge Forward Coaching. With a deep passion for helping individuals—especially athletes—reach their full potential, he specializes in mental toughness training using the Four C’s framework: Commitment, Control, Challenge, and Confidence. His coaching empowers clients to stay focused, overcome obstacles, and achieve their biggest goals.

Book a Free Discovery Call: www.ChargeForwardCoaching.com

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share. Keep charging forward.

Mental Toughness, Goal Setting, Commitment, Success, Grit, Self-Discipline, Charge Forward, Personal Growth, Motivation, Mindset, James Blasco, Charge Forward Coaching, sports coaching, mental mindset,