More Than a Finish Line: Untangling Identity, Suffering, and Mental Performance with Neal Palles

In this episode we dive deep into the "middle space" between athletic coaching, mental performance, and clinical therapy. Guest Neal Palles is a psychotherapist, certified mental performance consultant, and ultra-running coach. He shares his unique perspective on the "many hats" he wears supporting athletes

We explore the dangerous glorification of suffering in endurance sports and how "grit" can often transform into "rigidity."

Neal breaks down the critical differences between performance coaching (skills and strategy) and therapy (core beliefs and identity).

We also chat more about:

• Athlete identity
• Burnout, overtraining, and resilience in endurance sport athletes
• Mental health for athletes
• The "suck it up" mentality in sport
• Viewing injury from a mental health perspective
• ADHD in athletes
• And so much more!

Stay connected:

• Check out Neal's website here
• Follow Neal on Instagram @nealpalles
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