In this episode of the Connected Instructor podcast, I sit down with Dr. Michael Lardon, a renowned sports psychiatrist and mental performance coach. We dive into Dr. Lardon's fascinating background, his unique approach to sports psychology, and what it takes to truly understand the needs of athletes. We cover a range of topics, from balancing the demands placed on athletes with creating a supportive environment, to how parenting styles can shape athletic success. Dr. Lardon also provides insightful strategies for managing anxiety and fear during high-pressure moments. A key part of our discussion revolves around the mental side of competitive sports, especially golf. Dr. Lardon explains how mastering anxiety, developing effective pre-shot routines, and using mental scorecards to track performance can make all the difference in your game. He also shares a new mental training tool designed specifically to help golfers elevate their performance. Understand each athlete’s unique needs. Every athlete is different, and recognizing those differences is essential for growth. Balancing pressure and support is key to effective coaching. Parenting styles have a significant influence on an athlete’s drive and determination. Anxiety can be a tool in small doses, helping athletes reach peak performance. Fear vs. Anxiety: Fear is primal, while anxiety is a normal response to pressure, but understanding the distinction is critical. Listening to athletes is one of the most important things a coach can do. Managing anxiety isn’t about avoiding it; it’s about embracing it to improve performance. The mental game is as important as the physical game. Relaxation techniques and desensitization help athletes thrive in competition. Pre-shot routines are essential for consistency. The left brain and right brain play distinct roles in decision-making, and understanding this balance can lead to more successful shots. The mental scorecard is a valuable tool for tracking performance and mental processes, which can boost success rates. Discipline in mental training leads to better outcomes in competitive environments. Transitioning between mental states helps maintain focus during gameplay. Playing under pressure can actually make the game more enjoyable. 00:00 - Introduction to Sports Psychology and Dr. Lardon 02:20 - Family Background and Early Influences 06:42 - The Role of Parenting in Sports Success 10:33 - Balancing Pressure and Support in Coaching 14:58 - Understanding Athlete's Unique Needs 18:43 - Fear vs. Anxiety in Sports Performance 24:57 - Strategies for Managing Anxiety 25:56 - Understanding Anxiety in Competitive Sports 32:28 - The Pre-Shot Routine: Left Brain, Right Brain, No Brain 39:22 - The Mental Scorecard: Tracking Performance 46:23 - Transitioning Between Mental States 49:49 - Final Thoughts and Contact Information