In this episode of the Mental Approach Podcast, host Todd Arkell and mental health professional Dale Curd delve into the complexities of imposter syndrome. They explore its definition, common misconceptions, and the role of the ego in shaping our self-perception. Dale shares personal experiences and practical strategies for overcoming feelings of inadequacy, emphasizing the importance of repetition, visualization, and mentorship. The conversation highlights the significance of curiosity in combating self-doubt and offers actionable advice for listeners seeking to navigate their own journeys of personal growth.

Takeaways

• Imposter syndrome is an identity lag between self-perception and reality.
• Fake it till you make it means doing the reps to build confidence.
• Life is about taking steps forward and growing through experiences.
• The ego protects our self-image and can create self-doubt.
• Confidence is built through repetition and practice, not just belief.
• Visualization can be a powerful tool for athletes and individuals.
• Curiosity can help shift the mindset from fear to growth.
• Tracking evidence of success can combat feelings of inadequacy.
• It's important to distinguish between healthy self-criticism and debilitating doubt.
• Seeking mentorship can provide guidance and support in overcoming challenges.

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What happens when good intentions collide with outdated systems?

In this episode, Todd sits down with Allison for an unfiltered conversation about what’s really happening inside youth sport—especially hockey—and why “safe sport” policies aren’t translating into safer experiences for kids.

They dig into the gap between policy and practice: why 60-page rulebooks and online modules don’t change behavior, how coaches are being asked to navigate issues they were never trained for, and why meeting people where they’re at matters more than slamming down new rules. From dressing room policies that don’t work in real facilities, to hazing framed as “tradition,” to the escalating abuse of referees, this episode exposes the cultural blind spots no one wants to talk about.

The conversation goes deeper into the pressure cooker of modern youth sport—early specialization, financial investment, outcome obsession, and entitlement—and how these forces shape both harm and silence. Allison explains the “pyramid of harm,” showing how unchecked attitudes and behaviours can escalate over time, and why punishment alone doesn’t lead to real change.

This is also a deeply human episode. Allison speaks candidly about trauma, survival, and why the damage done in sport often doesn’t surface until decades later. Together, Todd and Allison ask the hard questions parents, coaches, and organizations need to face—before another kid gets hurt.

If you care about youth sport, coaching, parenting, or changing toxic culture from the inside, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

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In this conversation, Todd Arkell interviews Andrew Simpson, founder of Players Fitness and Performance, discussing the importance of mental performance in youth sports. Andrew shares his journey from a fitness enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach that includes mindset coaching, nutrition, and physical training. Andrew outlines his "peak performance state triangle" and the "say nothing challenge" for parents. The discussion covers various topics such as parental pressure, early specialization in sports, and practical mindset hacks for athletes. Andrew also highlights the significance of coaches in shaping athletes' mental resilience and the unexpected positive outcomes of integrating mental performance training into athletic programs.

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