In this episode of the podcast, Heavy Or Not, we kick off with friend and O.G., Wayne Goldsmith. His rant delves into the unsettling mark of young champions at the age of 8 and 9. His podcast is called, Sports Thoughts.

Then we pivot to talk about two successful college sports programs that have been abruptly cut. Oh no! Cal Polly Swimming, Men & Women's Teams, plus Grand Canyon University Men's Volleyball suffered unexpected and unexplainable cuts.

Heavy topics. Abrupt losses. Heartbreaks.

Links:

• https://waynegoldsmith.substack.com/
• https://Substack.com/@rauterkus
• https://HON.LAP.red
• https://Go.LAP.red

Full team and coaches role play activities in 10 scenes that progress in a full-blown story.

• Heavy Or Not – The O.G. Swim Guide | Episode 29

• A peek inside Dr. John Hogg’s Mental Skills for Young Athletes - course and ebooks

Take the time and boost performance, focus, and confidence in your athletes.

This episode of Heavy Or Not dives into the often overlooked but game-changing world of mental skills training.

We explore the groundbreaking work of Dr. John M. Hogg and the “Script and Screenplay” eBook, where athletes develop self-awareness, goal-setting, and emotional control — all through imaginative role-playing and practical exercises. It's more than theory — it's a coachable, learnable system that integrates seamlessly into physical training that teams can deploy.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why mental skills are the missing piece in many training programs

• How to use structured role-play to teach self-awareness and motivation

• Practical tools for goal setting, relaxation, and energizing techniques

• Ways to help young athletes turn mindset into their competitive advantage

Explore the Mental Skills full LMS course:
https://Read.SwimISCA.org/why/mental-skills-for-young-athletes/

Whether you coach swimmers, water polo teams, or any competitive youth athletes, this approach gives you tools to support the whole athlete—body and mind.

Buy the Script & Screenplay book. https://sowl.co/p/jwaLm

• Announcing Monthly CYA Calls to stay protected and informed – sign up at LAP.red and subscribe to the Substack.com/@rauterkus.

1. Where to find a great resource on how to build a winning swim team culture rooted in character and shared responsibility.

2. Where to jump start conversations that at every coach and organization should know about insurance, liability, and proactive planning.

• This episode features practical takeaways drawn from the book The Coach’s Starter Guide by Swim Smart, now available:
  The Swim Coach's Starter Guide – Swim Smart

Whether you're a head coach, assistant, administrator, or parent volunteer, this conversation gives you a framework for strengthening your team—both in spirit and in structure.

• How team culture impacts performance – and why character development often outperforms just chasing results

• The role of clear expectations and communication between coaches, swimmers, and parents

• Why monthly insurance conversations matter, especially in today’s shifting legal and volunteer landscape

• Tips for preventing the “satisfaction of search” so your team doesn’t stagnate after early wins

• A compelling look at genetics, coaching, and what really drives long-term success

“One person’s success is everyone’s joy. One person’s failure is everyone’s fault.”
This mantra shifts teams away from blame and toward shared accountability.

If you're a coach or volunteer, protecting yourself and your team starts with staying informed. Join our free monthly CYA (Cover Your Assets) calls to talk insurance, risk, and strategy with peers and experts.
📍 Sign up now at LAP.red

Catch the full episode on your favorite podcast platform or watch the video version on YouTube.
Whether you're in the office, on deck, or in the car—this one’s worth a listen.

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with a colleague who needs to hear this.

Enhance Recovery and Focus with Deep Sleep Techniques

Secrets to Deep Sleep for Peak Performance!

Delve into the essential role of deep sleep for athletes, students, and coaches, offering practical techniques to enhance rest and recovery.

Discover the science and art of mindfulness to trigger the parasympathetic response for optimal relaxation.

Learn focused breathing exercises to calm stress and mental chatter.

Explore the use of imagery and language to reinforce relaxation and mental stillness.

Understand the Muscle Relaxation 1-10 technique to connect mind and body for deeper rest.

Gain insights into structuring a deep sleep session that fits into even the busiest schedules.

Prioritize deep sleep as your ultimate competitive advantage for sports, studies, and overall well-being.

We hope you're doing well and getting quality pillow time. Sleep is truly transformative! Respect it. This episode, #27, builds from the prior ones on mental health and goes to a universal topic that's often overlooked but absolutely essential—deep sleep.

Whether you're a competitive athlete, a dedicated student, or a coach guiding others, this episode is packed with insights to help you optimize your rest and recovery.

• Importance of Deep Sleep: Discover why deep sleep isn't just a luxury but a fundamental human need, especially for those pushing their physical and mental limits.

• Mindfulness Meets Science: Learn how the art of mindfulness and scientific techniques can trigger the parasympathetic response, helping you achieve that much-needed rest.

• Breathing Techniques: Find out how specific breathing exercises can calm stress and mental chatter, setting the stage for a restful night.

• Imagery and Language: Explore how focused imagery and language can shift your mental state, helping you let go of stress and enhance relaxation.

• Muscle Relaxation Techniques: Get introduced to the Muscle Relaxation 1-10 method, a guided practice to relax your body and calm your nervous system.

• Fun Fact: Deep Sleep aids in muscle repair but also enhances your imagination and problem-solving skills. It's like a secret weapon for both your body and mind!

As you listen, think about how prioritizing deep sleep could become your ultimate competitive advantage — not just in sports or studies, but in life.

If you are ready to transform your sleep routine, tune in and incorporating these techniques into your daily life. Plus, check out Dr. John Heil's resources:

• https://ZenZoneDigital.net

• https://SwimSportPsychology.com/

• https://FencingSportPsychology.com/

There are plenty of additional tools and tips at those websites.

Sweet dreams!

In other news:

• https://UCANSwim.WeTransfer.com

The course is extensive and a treasure for those looking to expand their community aquatics programs with water polo.

Delve into the mental health challenges faced by student-athletes, drawing insights from experts and real-life experiences.

Discover practical strategies to support young athletes in navigating their complex environments.

Explore the unique pressures student-athletes face, from academic stress to social media influences.

Learn about the ACT framework for recognizing and addressing mental health concerns.

Understand the impact of smartphones and social media on young athletes' mental well-being.

Discover the seven C's model for building resilience and promoting positive mental health.

Gain practical tips for fostering a purpose-based identity and encouraging healthy coping mechanisms.

Learn:

1. Spotting the Signs: Discover how to identify early behavioral changes in student-athletes that might indicate mental health struggles.

2. The ACT Framework: Learn about the ACT model—Acknowledge, Collect, Take steps—to effectively support someone in need.

3. Social Media's Impact: Understand the profound effects of social media on young athletes' mental health and how to mitigate them.

4. Building Resilience: Explore the seven C’s model for resilience, focusing on competence, confidence, connection, and more.

5. Practical Strategies: Get actionable tips like the circle of control exercise and the circle of appreciation to foster a supportive team environment.

Did you know that the fear of other people's opinions (FOP) is a real thing? Social media acts as a Petri dish for this fear, affecting self-worth and mental health. But don't worry, we've got strategies to combat it!

This episode provides valuable insights and practical tools to help you support the young athletes in your life. Remember, you don’t have to be a therapist to make a difference — just being there and knowing what to look for can be a game-changer.

While you're here, share the show with a friend or coach who might find it helpful.

Plus, we’d love to see your school or team mascot! Send us a photo and be part of our upcoming collection in "Mental Skills for Young Athletes."

Thanks for being part of our community. Your support means the world to us!

Link

Be certain to listen to or watch the prior episode, #25, as it is the first part of the special event.

Upload photos to:

https://UCANSwim.WeTransfer.com

This is part one of two and it covered the first three presentations. Also see jump cut #26.

• Understanding the importance of a student-athlete's "why" and its impact on motivation and connection.

• Recognizing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, and the importance of seeking help.

• Addressing the pressures of athletic identity and the risks of early sports specialization.

• Exploring the role of mindfulness in building resilience and reducing injury risk.

• Practical advice for parents, coaches, and athletes on fostering a supportive environment and proactive mental health strategies.

1. Navigating Mental Health: Key Strategies for Student-Athletes and Coaches

2. Building Resilience: Mental Health Insights for Student-Athletes

3. The Role of Mental Health in Student-Athlete Performance and Well-being

4. Addressing Anxiety and Depression in Student-Athletes: Expert Insights

5. Cultivating Well-Being: Mental Health Strategies for Student-Athletes

6. Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health Support for Student-Athletes

7. From Anxiety to Resilience: Mental Health Tools for Student-Athletes

8. Mental Health and Student-Athletes: Recognizing Red Flags and Providing Support

9. Enhancing Student-Athlete Well-being: A Holistic Approach to Mental Health

Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, there's something valuable here for everyone!

Keys:

1. Understanding the "Why": Discover how understanding a student-athlete's motivation can be a game-changer, as shared by former student-athlete Jay Dar.

2. Mental Health Challenges: Learn about the critical mental health issues student-athletes face, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, with insights from Piper Carroll.

3. The Power of Words: Explore how language can either support or hinder athletes' mental health, emphasizing authenticity and vulnerability.

4. Injury and Identity: James Tu sheds light on the mental health impact of sports injuries and the concept of athlete identity.

5. Mindfulness and Resilience: Uncover the benefits of mindfulness in reducing injury risk and fostering resilience, with practical tips to get started.

Mindfulness was used, proudly, by Steelers and NFL star Troy Polamalu. He practiced meditation to enhance his focus and calm on the field.

This episode is a treasure trove of strategies and insights that can help navigate the pressures of being a student-athlete. We hope it sparks meaningful conversations and actions in your community.

Explore the course "Mental Skills for Young Athletes" at Read.swimisca.org. Plus, don't miss past episodes of "Heavy or Not."

Stay connected and share your thoughts with us. We’d love to hear how these insights resonate with you!

In "Heavy or Not #24," we explore the evolving landscape of swimming and sports leadership. From Olympic changes to community challenges.

- Discussion on the inclusion of 50-meter stroke events in the Olympic program and its implications.

- Insights from Dr. G on the importance of developing an aerobic base for young swimmers.

- Barry Healey's thoughts on sustainable pool management and community impact.

- A recap of the first 24 episodes of "Heavy or Not" and the journey so far.

- Upcoming focus on mental health for student-athletes and its significance beyond the pool.

Join us as we continue to navigate the waters of sports, technology, and community leadership.

Our 24th episode of Heavy or Not!

1. The Evolution of Olympic Swimming: Discover the exciting changes coming to the Olympic swim program, including the addition of the 50 fly, 50 back, and 50 breast events. What does this mean for future athletes?

2. Building an Aerobic Base: Dr. G shares his expertise on why developing an aerobic base in young swimmers is crucial for long-term success. Spoiler: It’s not just about speed!

3. Power and Innovation in Swimming: Barry Healey dives into the power dynamics of swimming and how innovation can transform the sport. Plus, a look at how the UK harnesses power from nature.

4. Community and Pool Sustainability: Explore the challenges and solutions for keeping community pools open and accessible. What happens when pools close, and how can we prevent it?

5. Mental Health Spotlight: Get a sneak peek into our upcoming episodes focusing on mental health for student-athletes. It’s a conversation that goes beyond the pool.

Fun Fact from the Episode: Did you know that the UK generates power from tidal movements and sea waves? Barry Healey shares this fascinating tidbit while discussing the potential of harnessing power in unexpected ways for aquatic facilities. But, sadly, it doesn’t seem to be a priority. The trend is to close pools.

We’re just getting started, and we’re so grateful to have you along for the ride. Whether you’re listening for the first time or have been with us since episode one, your support means the world to us. We hope this episode inspires you to think, laugh, and maybe even rethink how you approach your work, team, and community.

Call to Action: Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us on social media or by replying to this email. We love hearing from you!

Thanks for being part of the aquatic community. Let’s keep moving forward together!