In this insightful episode of I Am Mentally Tough, hosts Coach G (Gladine Frasso) and Coach David Anderson take a closer look at the current state of AAU basketball. They discuss the growing challenges athletes face with commitment, consistency, and the often-missed connection between talent and purposeful training.

The conversation explores how complacency can hold young athletes back, why basketball IQ is just as important as physical skills, and what it means to truly develop as a player. Coach G and Coach David offer guidance on how athletes can rise above distractions, stay focused, and approach the game with a mindset built for long-term success.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The challenges athletes face in AAU basketball today.
• Why commitment and consistency are critical for growth.
• How a disconnect between athletes and their training can hinder development.
• The role of coaches in motivating and guiding young players.
• Why developing basketball IQ is essential.
• How mental toughness separates good players from great ones.

Top Takeaways:

• Focused training matters more than flashy moves—quality over quantity.
• Athletes must commit to the process, not just the outcome.
• Complacency is a silent killer of potential—stay hungry and curious.
• Coaches have a responsibility to build relationships that challenge and inspire.
• Developing basketball IQ helps athletes make smarter decisions on and off the court.
• Mental toughness is about being different—choosing discipline, focus, and resilience every day.

🎧 Listen now for practical advice and tough love from two coaches who care deeply about helping athletes unlock their full potential.

Visit Coach Gladine’s Website ⁠HERE.⁠

Follow Gladine on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠ and ⁠Twitter.⁠

Want Gladine to work with your athlete or team? Click ⁠HERE.⁠

Want to bring Gladine in as a Keynote Speaker for your event? Click ⁠HERE.⁠

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

In this episode of I Am Mentally Tough, host Gladine Frasso welcomes Coach Bianca Campbell for a powerful conversation on the role of mindfulness in sports. Together, they unpack how mindfulness helps athletes stay grounded in the present moment, reach peak performance, and recover from setbacks with greater resilience.

Coach Campbell breaks down the true meaning of mindfulness, dispelling common myths—like the idea that mindfulness is soft or passive—and explains how legendary and elite athletes are using it to elevate their game.

The discussion dives deep into topics like emotional regulation, self-compassion, non-judgmental performance evaluation, and how mindfulness strengthens mental toughness. Coach Campbell also offers practical techniques that coaches and athletes can integrate into training and team culture, as well as reflections on the lifelong journey of self-discovery through mindfulness.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What mindfulness really is and how it benefits athletic performance.
• How flow state helps athletes perform at their highest level.
• Why emotional awareness and self-compassion matter in sports.
• How mindfulness helps with emotional regulation and mental recovery.
• Tips for integrating mindfulness into training and team culture.
• How to use language that reduces emotional attachment and anxiety

Top Takeaways:

• Mindfulness is the ability to pay attention on purpose.
• Flow state is the optimal performance zone, achievable through mindfulness.
• Self-compassion and non-judgment improve an athlete’s ability to bounce back from setbacks.
• Emotional regulation leads to better decision-making and mental clarity during competition.
• Coaches should model mindfulness to create mentally strong teams.
• Using neutral, fact-based language can reduce stress and enhance focus.
• Mindfulness allows athletes to respond rather than react to challenges.
• Embracing emotions—rather than ignoring them—builds long-term mental strength.
• The journey through mindfulness is continuous and deeply transformative.

Mindfulness isn’t just a trend—it’s a mental toughness superpower. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or someone striving for peak performance, learning to harness mindfulness can unlock greater focus, resilience, and emotional mastery.

🎧 Listen now to discover how mindfulness can be the game-changer in sports performance and personal growth.

Visit Gladine’s Website HERE.

Follow Gladine on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Want Gladine to work with your athlete or team? Click HERE.

Want to bring Gladine in as a Keynote Speaker for your event? Click HERE.

Visit Coach Bianca's website HERE.

Follow Coach Bianca on Instagram

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

In this episode of the I Am Mentally Tough podcast, Coach G interviews her dear friend Charlie Smith, a keynote speaker and mental performance coach, about his motto "My Life, My Pen." Charlie shares his personal story of overcoming a violent childhood and substance abuse by taking control of his life's narrative. He discusses his five pillars of personal development, starting with knowing who you are and setting realistic goals. Coach G and Charlie emphasize the importance of building confidence, maintaining healthy habits, and practicing self-compassion. Together, they highlight the significance of understanding one's core values and principles to become the best version of oneself while pursuing excellence.

Charlie Smith, a national keynote speaker and mental

performance consultant, leverages 30 years as a

commercial real estate investor with a compelling

personal journey of overcoming adversity in his life. His

mission is to impact, educate, and empower others to

become fulfilled in every aspect of their lives, through his

work. He wants you to change your life for the better by

changing the way you think. Charlie's professional career

includes over a billion dollars of real estate transactions

allowing him to combine practical business experience

with cutting-edge mental performance skills. Focused on

mindset and leadership development, he imparts

strategies for creating unshakeable self-confidence and

the resilience to elevate through adversity. Charlie's

impactful influence spans Fortune 300 companies,

high-level executives, leadership teams, athletes, and

Academy Award Winners. Through his signature

platform, ‘My Life, My Pen,' he inspires you to own the

pen and become the intentional author the life you not

only want, but deserve. Too often we let other people

and circumstances dictate our path forward. It's your life.

You should own the pen! Here are Charlie's 5 Pillars:

The 5 pillars of the PEN

1. Know who you are.
2. Know where you are going.
3. Know how you will go there.
4. Know who you become on the way there.
5. Know who you will go with.

Click here to follow Charlie on Instagram

Click here to view Charlie's website and to contact him!

Tajah Muhammad is the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer  of W.I.N.N. Network. She is also a Mindset Performance Coach, Motivational Speaker & Mentor. In this episode Tajah defines what is a growth mindset, the importance of it and how to build a growth mindset. Tajah has over 10+years coaching & mentoring youth, student-athletes, and  corporate clients. She is currently a Doctoral Student of Management-Executive Leadership (2024).

You can follow Tajah on IG HERE

You can follow Tajah on LinkedIn HERE

You can visit Tajah's website HERE

Melissa Boufounos is a Certified Holistic Nutritionist in the Ottawa area. A lifelong athlete, she specialize in sports nutrition and mainly work with teen and adolescent hockey players in her virtual private practice.

Her mission is to help the next generation of hockey players optimize their diets and health so they can perform their best on and off the ice and avoid the mistakes she made growing up that cut her playing career short.

In this episode Coach G. and Melissa discuss the importance of nutrition for athletes. Melissa not only dives into the importance of proper nutrition before games, but also during and after games. As an expert Nutritionist, Melissa shares the best type of foods to eat to help prepare for competition and the best foods to eat to help with performance recovery.

Follow Melissa on Instagram HERE

Visit Melissa's website HERE

In this podcast episode we had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Tywanna Smith. She has an extensive and comprehensive background in sports as a retired professional athlete, award-winning sports manager, and award-winning sports researcher. In this episode she discusses the conversations around confidence as it relates to an athlete's transition through and out of sports. She has honed processes and created programming to address this mindset shift and the necessary readiness to transition smoothly into the next chapter of their lives.

You can visit her website HERE

You can visit her Instagram HERE

Monique A.J. Smith, is a Leadership Strategist that guides Athletics Departments/Sport Organizations and Individuals who wish to advance in Athletics Administration/Sports Management careers through her company, Seeds of Empowerment LLC. Smith, a Sports Management veteran of 30 plus years, was

Adjunct Faculty at Hampton University teaching Sports Management Courses. Spring 2023, Monique published her 5th issue of Significance in Athletics and Sports, that features Black Women sharing their ‘Specialized Knowledge’ in the Industry. All issues can be found it www.seedsofempowermentstore.com

or Amazon. She is most known for her 9 seasons as the host of the internationally recognized weekly podcast "A Chat in the Garden with Monique A.J. Smith”, that spotlights Women of Color in Athletics/Sports to her 2.9K Followers. Smith time in Collegiate Athletics includes a 13 year tenure as athletic conference executive for the historic Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). She also served in various athletic administrative roles on the campuses of Saint Paul’s College and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore within a ten year period. Smith was a member of the Adjunct Faculty at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. With the understanding that knowledge is the key to success, Smith customizes her presentations to provide clients with leadership tools to prepare them to make informed decisions. Monique has dedicated her life to marketing the success of others, developing opportunities for the underrepresented and influencing decision makers to embrace diversity and inclusion. These actions have led to extraordinary opportunities to facilitator change and see strives in the development of

others.

Learn more about Monique and her services HERE

In this episode, Coach Ebony Hood (Coach E.), talks about having confidence and how to confidently be your authentic self. She shares her personal stories how she grew her confidence and how she moved on from situations that could've broke her spirit and confidence. She also shares how to be your authentic self.

Ebony Hood (38), a DC native, she’s a certified IMPACT Basketball Player Development Coach and USA Basketball Youth Development Coach; with a M.S. in Recreational Sports and Coaching Education. She is currently the new 2 nd Assistant Coach of Gwynn Park High School JV Girls Basketball Team in Brandywine, MD, and founders (E.B.B.) Elite Beyond Basketball, LLC for Specialized Player Development. Serving as a youth basketball coach 10yrs, she deems her passion for basketball as more than personal gratification, but an inevitable source of hope. A continual student of the game, Coach Hood is well versed in basketball fundamentals. She values the fulfillment of sharing her game philosophy and life lessons. Having a firm belief in solid foundation, her

mission (deconstructing player skillsets, eliminating grey areas, and reintroducing vital mechanics) allows the development of effective habits and higher levels of efficiency. Much like many basketball greats before her, Coach Hood strives to prepare her players for excellency

and nothing less. As a young black female, 90’s grown, Coach Hood’s specialty intertwines both a simplified style of play with a hint of flash. Understanding the evolution and where Women’s Basketball is headed, she prides herself on elevating the next generation’s skills set. With the right repetitions, female players have the divine potential to perform without limitations. “Cultivate habits that account for SUCCESS! To commit to a standard, you must first adjust to

the Culture. Be willing to make the necessary adjustments, then hold yourself accountable to them”. ~Coach E. Hood’s Philosophy

You can follow Coach E on instagram HERE

Coach Dorian Lee, one of the most sought after Professional Skills and Development Basketball Coach shares his 8 Keys to maximizing your young athlete's potential.

For nearly 2 decades, Dorian Lee has been considered one of the foremost authorities in basketball player development. Having worked with over 4,500 athletes worldwide. Our clientele represents a who’s who of basketball notables that include nationally ranked high school talent, elite college players, International, Olympic, WNBA, and NBA athletes. Dorian’s training is rooted in explosive movement, functional movement (movement that directly impacts in-game performance), quick release shooting, seamless transitional ball handling, explosive post play, and explosive finishing. Holding a degree in Health Science and a NESTA certified Speed, Agility, and Quickness trainer, Dorian incorporates cutting edge physiological research with his training techniques that offer athletes a complete explanation and understanding of what it is that they do and why it works. 

Author of two of the best selling instructional DVDs, the Art of the Quick Release and Explosive Finishing Moves Dorian’s unique training style and techniques has been sought out by sports agencies and professional athletes from around the entire world. Having trained all levels in 6 countries, Dorian has been lead trainer for professional camps in Spain and France while serving as lead trainer for elite youth camps in Japan, France, Belize, and Colombia

In his new book Titled "Could You Be The Reason Your Kid is Trash" Coach Lee gives parents the answers that they so desperately need to navigate the treacherous landscape of youth basketball. There has been no book written, until now, that tackles the complexity of the subject matter. This book is about "the talk," the talk that author Dorian A. Lee has had with nearly every parent since he started the journey of developing young athletes back in the early 2000s. 8 Chapters of "Do's and Don'ts" that ultimately gives parents the resources and knowledge to help their young athlete develop "ironclad" confidence. From understanding your parenting style to understanding the politics to getting the absolute most out of your child to how to select the right trainer or coach for you young athlete this book, insightful and reflective. The author shares some of the most incredible success stories that you will ever hear. This book proves that success leaves clues. These clues provide a blueprint for success on and off of the court. Get a copy of his book HERE

Follow him on Instagram HERE

Follow him on Twitter HERE

Contact him and view his website HERE

Dan Rigby is a public school teacher of 14 years and a recently retired wrestling coach. As a coach Dan spent more than 15 years coaching High School wrestling in public schools across Delaware. He has experience in rebuilding teams that had 0 wins before he became involved and also taking the most prominent program in the area and trying to maintain their winning ways. He was voted Delaware Coach of the year 3 times and although he is done formally coaching, we all know coaches never stop. Recently Dan has been working with numerous sports programs in the area and trying to help them build a winning culture. In the last few weeks he has published the Win the Day Planner a planner specific for student athletes and is already working on the next "off season edition." 

You can find Dan on Instagram ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠

You can order a Win The Day Planner ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠

You can order Win The Day Planner in Bulk ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠

Interested in one on one or group Mental Performance Coaching? Click ⁠⁠HERE ⁠

Micayla McGee, suffered not one but two season ending injuries. Micayla shares her story on how she was able to mentally bounce back from her season ending injuries. Freshman year, she tore her right ACL in a basketball game and two years later she tore her left knee in a basketball game. She shares what were her go-to mental training skills that helped throughout the rehab process and entering her first game back from injury. Macayla's story is truly inspiring, and anyone can learn from how resilient she was when it came to handling adversity.

Micayla just graduated from Anchor Bay High school. She played basketball her whole life and started playing soccer when she was 8 years old. She has chosen to play soccer at the next level. She will be attending Concordia University of Ann Arbor to continue her academic and athletic career. You can catch up with Macayla via Social Media:

Instagram- micayla.mcgee 

Twitter- micaylamcgee11

In this episode Coach G. and Coach Anderson invite William Carter the Founder of Student Assist and Student Athlete Iyanna Rogers who currently plays for University of Pennsylvania. Student Assist is a non-profit organization created to help students reach athletic and academic success in higher education and is NCAA CERTIFIED. William Carter discusses how AAU Coaches can help their athlete play at play at the next level. Iyanna Rogers: Four-year starter and two-year captain for Highland Springs, playing for head coach Franklin Harris … Co-State Champion Division 5 in 2020 … Two-time All-Region … Second-Team All-State … Third-Team All-Metro … McDonald's All-American nominee … ESPN Top 60 junior season … John Lucas Top 160 sophomore season … Averaged 13.68 points per game for 342 points her junior season on 54.8-percent shooting, while adding 196 rebounds, 89 blocks, 61 steals and 12 assists … Played AAU, Cap City Ballerz, for four years … Played AAU, Boo Williams, for EYBL 16u and 17u … Member of National Honors Society … Vice President of the Science National Society, FBLA and SGA … Ranked fourth in graduating class with 4.5 grade-point average … Two-time Presidents List and four-time Deans List … Associate of Science in Business Administration through dual enrollment She talks about what sacrifices she had to make to become an elite player, the recruitment process (what athletes should and should not be doing) and the transition from HS academics and athletics to college academics and athletics. Follow Iyanna Rogers on Instagram HERE Follow William Carter on Instagram HERE Follow Gladine Frasso on Instagram HERE Follow Gladine Frasso on Twitter HERE Visit Gladine Frasso's Website HERE Follow David Anderson on Instagram HERE

In this episode, Coaches Gladine Frasso (Coach G) and David Anderson dive into the current culture of youth sports, with a particular focus on AAU basketball.

They discuss the growing trend of athletes frequently switching teams, the challenges of building meaningful connections, and the critical role parents play in their children’s athletic development.

The conversation also covers the pressures young athletes face, the importance of loyalty, and the impact of promises made by coaches.

Additionally, they explore how athletes can grow by learning the game, adapting to new roles, and embracing challenges. The episode concludes with insights into the evolving landscape of college basketball and the implications of the transfer portal.

What Listeners Will Learn:

• Why athletes are increasingly hopping from team to team in youth sports, particularly in AAU basketball.

• The importance of building strong connections and fostering loyalty in a competitive sports environment.

• How parents can positively influence their children’s athletic journeys without adding undue pressure.

• The challenges athletes face, including managing expectations and adapting to new roles.

• Why being challenged and learning the game are essential for long-term growth and success.

• Insights into the changing dynamics of college basketball and the impact of the transfer portal.

Top Takeaways:

• Team-Hopping is a Growing Trend: Athletes often switch teams in search of better opportunities, but this can hinder the development of loyalty and deep connections.

• Parents Play a Crucial Role: Parents should support their children’s athletic journeys by encouraging growth and resilience, rather than focusing solely on outcomes.

• Loyalty Matters: Building trust and loyalty within a team can lead to more meaningful development and success.

• Adaptability is Key: Athletes must learn to adapt to new roles and challenges to grow both on and off the court.

• Promises Aren’t Always Kept: Young athletes and their families should be cautious of empty promises made by coaches and prioritize long-term development over short-term gains.

• College Basketball is Evolving: The transfer portal has changed the game, creating both opportunities and challenges for athletes navigating their collegiate careers.

This episode is a must-listen for athletes, parents, and coaches who want to better understand the complexities of youth sports culture and how to navigate them for long-term success. Tune in for valuable insights and practical advice!

Visit Gladine’s Website HERE

Follow Gladine on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter

Want Gladine to work with your athlete or team? Click HERE

Want to bring Gladine in as a Keynote Speaker for your event? Click HERE

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

In today's episode we talk to Danny Ourian on how athletes can effectively handle pressure in their sport. 

Danny Ourian, M.A., is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant® with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. "Coach Dan"  is currently an Affiliate Faculty member and Placement Coordinator with Holy Names University's Sport and Performance Psychology Department. Dan
earned his Master’s degree in Sport Psychology from John F. Kennedy University, where he completed a research thesis on Emotional Regulation among HS Basketball Coaches and created a mental skill training curriculum entitled “Hoops Minded.” Dan has since started a private practice of the same name and has worked as a Workshop Facilitator for Positive Coaching Alliance and as the head boys Varsity basketball coach at College Preparatory school in Oakland.

Where you can find Danny Ourian

Danny Ourian (@dannyhoops) / Twitter

hoopsminded.com

Hoops Minded (@hoopsminded) • Instagram photos and videos

Where you can find Mental Performance Coach Gladine Frasso and book her for one on one sessions

Instagram

Twitter

Website

Where you can find Professional Skills and Development Coach David Anderson

Instagram

Website

Ray Bullock, Sr.  has worked professionally in the ABL, CBA, and USBL. His college experience includes working both men's and women's basketball in Divisions I, II, and III. With may years' experience, Ray is a professed life-long student of the game. As a college assignor, he gave lots of officials their first collegiate experience at the NAIA and Division I level. 

Ray Bullock has officiated the game of basketball from the middle school, high school, collegiate and professional level. Ray discusses the Mental side of game through the eyes of a Basketball Referee.

Where you can find Mental Performance Coach Gladine Frasso and book her for one on one sessions

Instagram

Twitter

Website

Where you can find Professional Skills and Development Coach David Anderson

Instagram

Website

Today our guest is Tuck Taylor who is a Mental Performance Specialist and the owner of Nuero Beast. Nuero Beast is a science-based program that is designed to give athletes a competitive advantage by optimizing the way they perceive and process information. Tune in as we talk about mental fatigue and what athletes can do to increase their athletic performance

TucK Taylor 

Instagram - Neuro Beast

Where you can find Mental Performance Coach Gladine Frasso and book her for one on one sessions

Instagram

Twitter

Website

Where you can find Professional Skills and Development Coach David Anderson

Instagram

Website

Martin Soaries is the owner of Basketball Society and the Co-Owner of Holistic Hooper. Join us as he talks about what exactly is meditation, the myths we hear about mediation, how basketball players can add meditation to their routines, and he takes us through a quick meditation practice. Martin can be found on

Instagram - Basketball Society and Holistic Hooper

Where you can find Mental Performance Coach Gladine Frasso and book her for one on one sessions

Instagram

Twitter

Website

Where you can find Professional Skills and Development Coach David Anderson

Instagram

Website

Part II of II.  In this episode we talk to Coach Shay Robinson. Coach Robinson was the former assistant coach for the Maryland Women's Basketball Team and is now the current assistant coach for Ole Miss women's basketball team. This is part two of two with Coach Shay Robinson. In this episode Coach Shay talks about the impact Coach Yo has made on the Ole Miss Women's Basketball team, he also talks about working with one of the best Mental Performance Coaches in the Game Stu Singer and shares some advice he would give to coaches who are looking to get their foot in the door in coaching college basketball.

Where you can find Coach Robinson

Instagram

Twitter

Where you can find Mental Performance Coach Gladine Frasso and link to register for her 5 Week Basketball Mental Performance Group Coaching

Instagram

Twitter

Website

5 - Week Basketball Mental Performance Coaching

Where you can find Professional Skills and Development Coach David Anderson

Instagram

Website

Sponsorships: off for this episode

This episode we talk to Coach Shay Robinson. Coach Robinson was the former assistant coach for the Maryland Women's Basketball Team and is now the current assistant coach for Ole Miss women's basketball team. This is part I of a part II Series. In part I we talk about Shay's background and past success with Maryland Women's Basketball Team. He shares with us:

What a holistic approach to basketball looks like

The impact one of the world's top mental performance coaches had on the Maryland's Women's Basketball team and

Why athletes need to focus more on the process than the outcome

Where you can find Coach Robinson

Instagram

Twitter

Where you can find Mental Performance Coach Gladine Frasso and link to register for her 5 Week Basketball Mental Performance Group Coaching

Instagram

Twitter

Website 

5 - Week Basketball Mental Performance Coaching

Where you can find Professional Skills and Development Coach David Anderson

Instagram

Website

Sylvia Hatchell is a Naismith Hall of Famer, Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, 3X National Coach of the Year, and 3X ACC Coach of the Year. At North Carolina she won a NCAA Championship, made 3 NCAA Final Four Appearances, made 23 NCAA appearances and has 8 ACC Tournament Championships. At Francis Marion she won the AIAW and NAIA Championship. Sylvia is also a 3X author of books: Fight! Fight!: Discovering Inner Strength When Blindsided By Life The Complete Guide to Coaching Girls' Basketball: Building a Great Team the Carolina Way The Baffled Parent's Guide to Coaching Girls' Basketball (Baffled Parent's Guides) We had the honor or interviewing Sylvia Hatchell about Mental Toughness and Team Culture. Sylvia dives into some of the mentally tough players she had to honor to coach such as Ivory Latta, Nikki Teasley, and Allisha Gray. She always talks about what type of talent (physically and mentally) that she looked for when she was recruiting. Sylvia also discuss where confidence comes from and how coaches can help their athletes build their confidence. Coach G. Information Here is her Instagram Here is her website FREE Goal Setting Guide/E-book for athletes Coach David Information Here is his Instagram Here is his website

In this episode Gilbert arenas dives into Coaches being too much in control and needing to give their players more ways to lead the team, the different types of leaders we see on teams and how athletes can gain and sustain their confidence.  Gilbert Arenas Information Here is his Instagram Here is his podcast Coach G. Information Here is her Instagram Here is her website FREE Goal Setting Guide/E-book for athletes Here is the information for the Athlete Development Workshop Coach David Information Here is his Instagram Here is his website

In this episode Gilbert Talks about the importance of having time management, a pre-game routine, an in game routine and a post game routine. With today's game not having a lot of shot blockers Gilbert tells us how much he thinks he would average in today's game and why. Coach David Anderson and Gilbert talks about how young players today can develop the complete package on the court and finally Gilbert talks about the role of parents in sports. Gilbert Arenas Information Here is his Instagram Here is his podcast Coach G. Information Here is her Instagram Here is her website FREE Goal Setting Guide/E-book for athletes Here is the information for the Athlete Development Workshop Coach David Information Here is his Instagram Here is his website

Today’s episode with Gilbert is part one of four. Gilbert talks about the different types of pressure athletes face from their friends and family members. We also discuss how to be a leader and the difference between being a leader and the “cool kid.” Years ago Gilbert was in a dark place and he shares what it was like being in that dark place and how he bounced back from being here. Finally he discusses the advice he gave Kevin Durant after Durant suffered a torn Achilles injury in the NBA Finals.

Gilbert Arenas Information

Here is his Instagram

Here is his podcast

Coach G. Information

Here is her Instagram

Here is her website

FREE Goal Setting Guide/E-book for athletes

Here is the information for the Athlete Development Workshop 

Coach David Information

Here is his Instagram

Here is his website

In this episode of I Am Mentally Tough podcast, host Gladine Frasso sits down with basketball skills and development trainer, Coach Dana, to discuss the crucial role of mental skills in an athlete's development.

They dive into the impact of social media on young athletes, how it can create unrealistic comparisons, and why selecting a trainer should be based on fit rather than social media popularity.

Coach Dana also emphasizes the importance of transparency in training and shares key advice for athletes on staying focused on their personal development.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The role of mental skills in sports and athlete development.
• How social media influences young athletes and their mindset.
• Why choosing a trainer should be based on fit and expertise rather than social media popularity.
• The importance of transparency in training and athlete growth.
• Practical advice for young athletes to navigate social media and stay focused

Top Takeaways:

• Social media can create unrealistic comparisons, leading athletes to focus on hype instead of growth.
• Choosing a trainer should be based on personal fit and development needs, not just their online following.
• Transparency and honesty in training are essential for long-term success.
• Young athletes must stay focused on their journey and avoid distractions from social media trends.

This episode is a must-listen for athletes, coaches, and parents who want to better understand the intersection of mental toughness, social media, and athlete development.

Tune in for actionable insights and inspiration!

Visit Gladine’s Website HERE

Follow Gladine on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter

Want Gladine to work with your athlete or team? Click HERE

Want to bring Gladine in as a Keynote Speaker for your event? Click HERE

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

Pro Basketball Skills and Development Coach, David Anderson and top Basketball Mental Performance Coach, Gladine Frasso (Coach G.) discuss the Role of Parents in Sports. Some parents tend to be overzealous in their kids sport. They are obnoxiously loud during the games, they try to coach from the stands, they hound the officials, they give the wrong type of pep talks - all of which causes their child to be embarrassed , distracted from playing the game and underperforming. Both coaches also give advice on what the parents should say/do before games, during the games and after the games. This episode is packed with information players, coaches and parents need to hear and implement. 

Coach Gladine Frasso also mentions her FREE Goal Setting E-book in the podcast that you can download here

David Anderson:

Email - david@foundationbasketball.com

Instagram - @FoundationsAcademySports

Website: Www.FoundationAcademySports.com

Gladine Frasso:

Email -  IAmMentallyTough@gmail.com

Instagram @IAmMentallyTough

Website - Www.IAmMentallyTough.com

Professional Basketball Skills and Development Trainer, David Anderson and his Co-host, Mental Toughness Coach, Gladine Frasso dive into who they are,  their background, why they started the podcast, the importance of Mental Toughness and what you can expect to hear in their future episodes. Please subscribe and rate their podcast 5 stars!

David Anderson:

Email - david@foundationbasketball.com

Instagram - @FoundationsAcademySports

Website: Www.FoundationAcademySports.com

Gladine Frasso:

Email -  IAmMentallyTough@gmail.com 

Instagram @IAmMentallyTough

Website - Www.IAmMentallyTough.com

In this episode, Mental Toughness Coach, Gladine Frasso (Coach G.) and WNBA Skills and Development Coach David Anderson dive deep into the critical topic of emotional control in high-pressure situations. Drawing from years of experience coaching athletes at every level—from middle school to the WNBA—they discuss common negative emotions that arise during competition, how these emotions affect performance, and actionable strategies to help athletes bounce back stronger. They go over:

1. Common Negative Emotions in Athletes:

   • Self-doubt, frustration, and loss of confidence after failure.
   • The social pressure of failing in today’s digital age and how it affects mental resilience.

2. Impact of Emotional Reactions on Teams:

   • How negative gestures and frustration can disrupt team dynamics.
   • The ripple effect of poor emotional control from team leaders to teammates.

3. Coaching Insights and Strategies:

   • Why situational practices are key to preparing athletes for high-pressure scenarios.
   • The importance of "palms down" as a physical cue to calm emotions and refocus.
   • How to address emotional outbursts without discouraging players.

4. Dealing with Highly Emotional Athletes:

   • Techniques to help athletes manage pregame anxiety and frustration after mistakes.
   • How to emphasize effort, resilience, and positivity to build mental toughness.

5. Spotlight on Success:

   • Shoutout to Lainie Grant, University of North Carolina point guard, who exemplifies resilience and emotional control as a young athlete thriving on the national stage.

Have a Question or Topic Suggestion? Email us at GladineFrasso@IAmMentallyTough.com

Follow Coach G on her Instagram HERE

Follow Coach David on his Instagram HERE

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

In this episode of I Am Mentally Tough, we tackle an essential and often controversial topic: “Tough Love or Too Far?” As a Mental Toughness coach, I’ve seen firsthand the impact a coach’s approach can have on an athlete’s mindset, performance, and overall well-being.

We’ll explore:

• What tough love truly means in coaching.
• The fine line between motivating athletes and pushing them too far.
• The red flags of coaching gone wrong.
• Practical tips for coaches to maintain a balance of high standards and respect.

With insights from coaching legends like John Wooden and Gregg Popovich, as well as research-backed data, this episode provides valuable tools for coaches, athletes, and parents alike. Whether you’re in the gym, on the court, or in the stands, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Defining Tough Love: How high expectations and accountability build mental toughness.
2. When It Crosses the Line: Recognizing the signs of verbal, emotional, and physical abuse in coaching.
3. The Science of Tough Love: Stats on how supportive coaching impacts athletes’ performance and mental health.
4. How to Strike the Right Balance: Practical tips for coaches to lead with both toughness and empathy.
5. Red Flags for Parents and Athletes: When it’s time to address a coach’s behavior.

Follow Coach G. on Instagram HERE

Follow Coach David on Instagram HERE

Download FREE Confidence guide HERE

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

In this episode of the I Am Mentally Tough podcast, we sit down with Aisha Foy, a renowned NIL consultant, to explore the world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for athletes. Aisha shares invaluable insights on how athletes can leverage their personal brand not only for financial gain but also for personal development. She emphasizes the importance of documenting their journey, managing their online presence, and mastering public speaking to maximize NIL potential.

Aisha also breaks down the differences between collective NIL money and personal brand value, offering examples from well-known athletes like Armando Bacot. Whether you’re a high school athlete or playing at the college level, Aisha provides actionable strategies to help athletes at all stages secure NIL deals and build lasting, marketable brands.

Key Takeaways:

• NIL is more than just about making money—it's about fast-tracking life skills like personal branding, communication, and professionalism.
• Documenting your journey on social media is key to building an authentic personal brand.
• High-profile athletes have different NIL earning opportunities, but all athletes can maximize their brand value by being genuine and intentional.
• Building a brand takes confidence and the ability to tell your story authentically, which can open doors beyond sports.
• Public speaking and being comfortable on camera are essential skills for promoting yourself and securing deals.

Aisha Foy is an NIL consultant helping athletes unlock their potential and create powerful personal brands. She is also the author of Success is My Major and provides free resources for athletes and parents looking to navigate the NIL landscape. Find her book and more information about her services on her websiteFollow Aisha Foy on Instagram

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Work one on one with Coach G. to build your Mental Toughness

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

In this episode of the I Am Mentally Tough podcast, hosts Gladine Frasso (Coach G.) and Coach David Anderson dive into the essential role that role players have in basketball, whether they start on the court or come off the bench. They discuss the importance of embracing one's role, the mental toughness required to handle not getting much playing time, and the influence of parental expectations on athletes’ performances.

By focusing on factors within their control and fostering a team-oriented mindset, athletes can strengthen their mental resilience and contribute positively to their team. The episode wraps up with a special announcement about upcoming group coaching sessions designed to build mental toughness in athletes.

Key Discussion Points:

1. The Importance of Role Players

2. Challenges Faced by Role Players

3. Parental Influence

4. Reframing the Bench Role

5. Mental Toughness and Role Acceptance

6. Coaches' Role in Managing Expectations

7. Parental Support and Mental Health

8. Building Mental Resilience

Coach G. will be launching her 8 week Mental Toughness Group Coaching program early November. Make sure you’re on her email list so that you’re the first to know when it goes live. Join here email list HERE

Learn the 6 reasons why your athletes are lacking confidence and what they can start doing now to overcome them. Get the free guide HERE

Follow Coach G. on Instagram HERE

Follow Coach David Anderson HERE

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

In this episode, Coach G. and Coach David dive deep into a critical topic that hits close to home for the basketball community: the importance of skill development versus playing year-round basketball games.

Many players, especially in middle school and high school, are caught in the cycle of playing five seasons of basketball—middle school, AAU, spring league, summer league, and fall ball—without dedicating enough time to developing their skills and mental toughness. We explore why this is detrimental to their growth and how it prevents them from reaching their full potential.

Key Takeaways:

• The Overload of Games: Basketball is a year-round sport, but when do athletes have time to work on skill development, mental performance, and overall basketball IQ? We question why many young athletes spend too much time competing in games instead of focusing on practice.

• The Confidence Cycle: Building confidence starts with practicing the skills, implementing them in games, assessing performance, and then adjusting for improvement. Many athletes skip this essential step of practice, which hampers their long-term development.

• The Role of Coaches: Coaches play a crucial role in allowing athletes to work on their weaknesses. Athletes need the freedom to try new skills in games, even if it means missing shots or making mistakes. Without this environment, they can't grow into well-rounded players.

• Case Study - College Athlete's Journey: A real-life example of a current University of North Carolina athlete (Lanie Grant) showcases the dedication required to perfect skills like the floater over several years. She spent hours focusing on this specific skill from various angles to improve her game, illustrating the time investment necessary for skill mastery.

• Parents and the Pressure to Win: Many parents and athletes are fixated on winning games, even at a young age, rather than focusing on the long-term process of skill development. We discuss why this mindset is holding athletes back from reaching their potential.

• Kobe Bryant and Steph Curry's Work Ethic: The boring, repetitive nature of their training regimens is what made Kobe and Steph great. We explore how their commitment to perfecting fundamental skills, not just playing games, is the key to long-term success.

Quote of the Episode:"When you're trying to win, there's no way that you can apply what you're learning in training to a game. The W is more important than the process of development—and that's the problem."

If you're an athlete or a parent of an athlete who wants to build the right mindset and build unbreakable confidence, download our free confidence guide HERE to help you start on the right path.

Visit IAmMentallyTough.com for more resources on developing mental toughness, and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast!

Follow Coach G. on Instagram HERE

Follow Coach David on Instagram HERE

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

In this episode of the I Am Mentally Tough Podcast, Gladine Frasso and Coach David Anderson dive deep into the importance of summer preparation for basketball players. They explore how discipline and mental toughness play a crucial role in determining success during the basketball season.

They discuss the concept of "The Harvest Doesn't Lie"—what athletes plant during the summer, whether hard work or laziness, will show when tryouts come around. The hosts also break down the factors that differentiate average players from those who become starters and standout athletes, highlighting the mental and emotional aspects that many coaches and parents overlook.

Key Topics:

• Summer Workouts & Season Preparation: Why athletes are made in the offseason and how the work put in during summer directly impacts performance.
• The Harvest Doesn't Lie: A powerful analogy about how preparation leads to results, inspired by a sermon Gladine heard at church.
• Discipline Defined: What discipline looks like for serious athletes and why it’s necessary to reach new levels of performance.
• Mental Toughness: How athletes can mentally prepare for setbacks, competition, and maintaining focus under pressure.
• Common Mistakes of Athletes: Why some players fall short despite working out and how sporadic training and lack of consistency hinder growth.
• Challenging the Status Quo: Why no player’s spot is guaranteed and how freshmen and underclassmen can challenge for starting positions.
• Coaching & Mental Skills: Why many coaches and parents underestimate the importance of mental skills in developing athletes and what needs to change.

Click here to download the FREE guide on the 6 reasons why athletes lack confidence and what to do to overcome the 6 reasons.

Follow Coach G on Instagram HERE

Follow Coach Anderson on Instagram HERE

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠⁠“Aurora”⁠⁠ by Jeff Kaale

In this inspiring episode of I Am Mentally Tough, host Gladine Frasso sits down with Coach Jaye, founder of the Next Level Warriors AAU basketball program, to explore what it really takes to build a youth sports program that goes beyond the game.

Coach Jaye shares her personal journey from growing up in a small town in Pittsburgh to launching and sustaining a successful basketball organization that emphasizes not just athletic performance, but holistic development. From foundational skill-building to handling criticism and creating strong relationships with families, Coach Jaye offers powerful insight into what it means to lead with purpose and resilience.

Listeners will walk away with practical wisdom on how to lead young athletes with intention, develop a winning mindset, and build a legacy rooted in service and strength.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What it takes mentally and emotionally to start and grow an AAU basketball program.
• The importance of foundational skills in sports and life.
• How to build trust and strong relationships with parents and players.
• How to turn losses into lessons and stay motivated through adversity.
• Ways to manage external criticism and stay aligned with your purpose.
• The value of offering holistic support to athletes—including nutrition, public speaking, and personal development.

Top Takeaways:

• Foundational skills are the building blocks for long-term success—on and off the court.
• Relationships with parents and players are essential to sustaining a youth program.
• Getting your “butt kicked” can be a valuable learning moment.
• Leaders must tune out external noise and stay committed to their mission.
• Holistic development (beyond athletics) helps young athletes thrive in all areas of life.

Coach Jaye’s story proves that great coaching changes lives. Her blend of tough love, practical support, and long-term vision offers a roadmap for anyone committed to developing young people.

🎧 Tune in now to hear Coach J’s remarkable story and learn how to lead young athletes with grit, grace, and purpose.

Visit Coach Gladine’s Website ⁠⁠⁠HERE.⁠⁠⁠

Follow Gladine on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Twitter.⁠⁠⁠

Want Gladine to work with your athlete or team? Click ⁠⁠⁠HERE.⁠⁠⁠

Want to bring Gladine in as a Keynote Speaker for your event? Click ⁠⁠⁠HERE.⁠⁠

Stay in Touch with Coach Jaye and Next Level Warriors Basketball. Visit Coach Jaye’s Website HERE.⁠⁠⁠

Follow Next Level Warriors on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter.

Credit: Intro and Outro “Aurora” by Jeff Kaale

In this powerful episode of I Am Mentally Tough, host and Mental Toughness Coach Gladine Frasso is joined by licensed professional counselor Antonio Bolden to explore the transformative role of mindfulness in athletic performance and personal development.

Together, they break down what mindfulness really means, how it differs from meditation, and why it’s essential for athletes to practice awareness without judgment—especially in high-pressure situations. Antonio shares practical tools and mindset shifts that help athletes let go of mistakes, stay present, and protect their mental well-being by detaching identity from performance.

This episode is a must-listen for athletes, coaches, and anyone who wants to unlock peak performance through emotional awareness, self-regulation, and purpose-driven action.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What mindfulness is (and how it differs from meditation)
• How mindfulness improves emotional regulation and focus
• The importance of acceptance in moving on from mistakes
• Why detaching your identity from your performance matters
• How to use mindfulness to enter a flow state
• Techniques for managing external pressure and distractions
• How values play a role in staying mentally grounded

Top Takeaways:

• Mindfulness is about being present without judgment.
• Awareness improves emotional control and mental clarity.
• Acceptance helps athletes move forward instead of fixating on past mistakes.
• Detaching identity from performance protects long-term mental health.
• Mindfulness is a way of living; meditation is one tool to get there.
• Breath control is a simple, powerful way to regulate emotions in the moment.
• Mindfulness can counteract distractions from outside expectations and pressure.
• Identifying personal values helps athletes stay anchored and perform with purpose.

🎧 Listen now to learn how mindfulness can help athletes train the mind like they train the body—intentionally, consistently, and with purpose.

Visit Coach Gladine’s Website ⁠⁠HERE.⁠⁠

Follow Gladine on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Twitter.⁠⁠

Want Gladine to work with your athlete or team? Click ⁠⁠HERE.⁠⁠

Want to bring Gladine in as a Keynote Speaker for your event? Click ⁠⁠HERE.⁠

Follow Antonio Bolden on ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Visit Antonio Bolden's Website Here

Antonio Bolden's Email: antonio@boldentherapyandwellness.com

Credit: Intro and Outro ⁠“Aurora”⁠ by Jeff Kaale