Max Out Mindset

In this episode of the Max Out Mindset Podcast, Coach Jess sits down with Alyssa D'Errico, head coach of Utah Volleyball, for a powerful conversation on leadership, mindset, and what it truly means to max out. Alyssa shares her journey from championship athlete to head coach and unpacks how elite performers sustain success without losing themselves in the process. The conversation dives into why behaviors—not results—must drive performance, how authenticity allows athletes to stay present under pressure, and why connection is the foundation of championship culture. You'll hear real stories about managing competitiveness, learning emotional control, training response after failure, and helping athletes move from frustration to freedom. Alyssa also explains how elite programs "out-team" opponents by aligning coaches, athletes, and support staff around shared standards and trust. This episode is packed with practical insight for athletes, coaches, and leaders who want to: · Stay consistent when results fluctuate · Train focus, readiness, and response under pressure · Use failure as feedback instead of fear · Build confidence without comparison · Lead with clarity, connection, and purpose Whether you're a high school athlete, college competitor, or coach building culture, this conversation offers a clear reminder: who you are and how you show up every day matters! Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

In this episode of the Max Out Mindset Podcast, we welcome back John Cook for his second appearance on the show. John is a four-time national champion volleyball coach and the current GM of the Omaha Supernovas. This time, the conversation goes beyond trophies and records and into what actually lasts inside great programs. John shares how he defines success with his teams, especially as he builds a brand-new professional organization. We talk about playing for each other, trusting the work when it matters most, competing with joy, and creating a culture people want to be part of — win or lose. This episode is for coaches who want sustained excellence, not short-term results. For leaders who want trust, connection, and standards that hold up under pressure. And for anyone who believes the scoreboard never tells the full story. Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Norah Sis has built a career on more than talent — everywhere she goes, teams win. From state appearances with her high school team, a national championship in club, gold medals in international competitions, Elite 8 runs at Creighton, and a PVF championship in her first professional season, her impact goes far beyond the stat sheet. Norah shares how joy fuels her competitiveness, why culture drives championships, and what it means to play free under pressure. She opens up about perfectionism, confidence struggles, and the evolution of her leadership — from a timid freshman to the emotional heartbeat of elite teams. We also explore her transition to the pros, coping with new roles, leaning on faith, and her excitement to return home to Omaha with the Supernovas. This episode is a blueprint for athletes and teams who want to compete with belief, stay grounded in who they are, and build cultures where everyone can thrive. Whether you're a coach, player, or fan of women's sports, you'll learn a lot from Norah's wisdom and authenticity. Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Coach Rhonda Revelle returns to the Max Out Mindset Podcast to reflect on growth, healing, and joy in coaching after adversity. Now in her 34th year leading Nebraska Softball, Revelle opens up about the defining challenges of her career and the deep personal work that helped her rediscover peace, purpose, and trust. She speaks candidly about emotional recovery, learning to care less about outside opinions, and finding strength in the people who walked beside her when life felt uncertain. Through stories of connection, faith, and the “team within the team,” Coach Revelle reveals the evolution of her leadership—from chasing outcomes to cherishing the daily process. She explains her 80/20 rule: 80% of her energy now goes toward building human connection, 20% toward softball. Listeners will hear why “you win in the locker room first,” how joy and competitiveness can coexist, and why she believes true success is measured by hugs, trust, and the feeling that no one wants the season to end. Her reflections on trust, team-first culture, and her bond with athlete Jordy Bahl bring the episode full circle—showing how relationships, vulnerability, and peace can fuel both performance and purpose. It’s a masterclass in how to lead with heart, adapt with grace, and define success on your own terms. Max Out Mindset for Softball Book Max out Mindset services here. Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@scottpapek Twitter: @scottpapek

In this episode, Boston Celtic Baylor Scheierman breaks down what it means to “play free.”—It’s about trusting his preparation, leaning on his faith, and letting go of mistakes so he can perform without fear. Baylor shares how coaches like Greg McDermott instilled belief, how teammates modeled servant leadership, and how culture and confidence become contagious. From being a 5’9” overlooked recruit to hitting clutch shots on the biggest stages and now earning his role with the Celtics, Baylor’s journey is rooted in preparation, faith, and resilience. This episode is a masterclass in grit, resilience, and controlling the controllables. For athletes, Baylor’s story offers simple, repeatable tools: resetting routines, practicing positive self-talk, and committing to daily preparation. For coaches, it’s proof that instilling belief and valuing every role on a team fuels long-term success. Baylor’s path embodies the 4Cs of Max Out Mindset—Commitment, Confidence, Concentration, and Composure—with confidence and composure shining brightest. Max Out Mindset for Basketball Book Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instgram: @scottpapek Twitter: @scottpapek Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Visit Max Out Mindset

In this episode of Max Out Mindset, we sit down with Merritt Beason, a First Team All-American at Nebraska, two-time college captain, and the number one overall draft pick in the Pro Volleyball Federation who now plays for the Omaha Supernovas. Merritt opens up about her journey to competing on some of the biggest stages in college volleyball. She shares how discipline became her competitive advantage, what it was like to step into a leadership role at a new school, and how she learned to manage self-talk, confidence, and performance pressure. Merritt also reflects on her transition to professional volleyball and why relationships have been central to her success. This conversation is a masterclass in vulnerability, resilience, and leading with both love and accountability. Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Welcome to the Max Out Mindset podcast. In this episode, Dr. Larry Widman and Coach Jess sit down with Coach Beth Singleton, a powerhouse in the softball world and a model of sustained excellence at both the club and collegiate levels. From winning national championships with Nebraska GOLD 16U and 18U teams to leading Midland University to two NAIA World Series appearances in the last three years, Coach Singleton has proven she knows how to build a championship culture with an emphasis on training mindset. She shares her journey from club coaching to the college ranks and what it takes to lead with clarity, consistency, and care. Beth unpacks the mindset needed to sustain high-level performance, her belief in developing the whole athlete, and the role that vulnerability and connection play in competitive success. She reflects on building trust with athletes, training confidence intentionally, and how she prepares teams to perform when it matters most. Nuggets galore from a very relatable coach. Max Out Mindset for Softball Book Max out Mindset services here. Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@scottpapek Twitter: @scottpapek

In this episode, Dr. Larry Widman and Coach Jess sit down with Coach Brian Rosen, the new head of Creighton University Volleyball and one of the rising stars in collegiate coaching. From his beginnings in high school sports to leading one of the top volleyball programs in the country, Rosen shares a candid and insightful look into what it takes to max out as a coach, a leader, and a person. Coach Rosen unpacks his journey and the power of vulnerability, grace, and intentional self-talk in developing an elite mindset. He speaks to the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, building transformational culture, and training confidence like any other skill. Rosen also dives into the art of giving honest feedback, managing pressure, and fostering authentic relationships that allow athletes to thrive on and off the court. Coach Rosen reminds us that growth is not about being perfect—it’s about being present, connected, and willing to go all in. Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Dr. Larry Widman hosts the Max Out Mindset Podcast with special guest Coach Steven Gream, head coach of Cowley College Volleyball—a junior college powerhouse with a staggering 307–46 record, 81 straight wins, and two back-to-back national championships. Coach Gream shares how sustained excellence is built from the inside out. He reveals why mindset matters most, suggesting a 3:1 mental-to-physical ratio in performance, and reflects on how COVID-19 reshaped his approach to coaching. From his roots in basketball to building a volleyball dynasty, Gream unpacks his philosophy on team culture, leadership development, and staying composed under pressure. Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instgram: @scottpapek Twitter: @scottpapek

In today's podcast episode, we welcome back Kristen Kelsay, the Head Volleyball Coach at Michigan State University. With this inspiring new head coach, we dive into mindset, leadership, and team dynamics. She emphasizes the importance of betting on yourself, taking calculated risks, and making decisions based on personal values. Building psychological safety and trust within a team is crucial. Athletes need to feel safe to fail and learn; trust is built through small actions but can be lost quickly. Resilience through adversity is highlighted, with past struggles and embracing challenges seen as growth opportunities. Kristen encourages courageous conflict and exemplifies transformational leadership, focusing on life skills beyond volleyball. Michigan State Volleyball’s mission of winning is supported by three pillars: Relationships, Values, and Growth. She trains confidence through consistent effort and embracing the learning process, offering valuable lessons and practical advice for athletes, coaches, and anyone looking to improve their mindset and leadership skills. Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

On this episode of the Max Out Mindset Podcast, we welcome back Trish Siedlik, head coach of Bellevue University Volleyball, for an in-depth conversation about the journey to sustained success. Trish has built an incredible program, leading her team to multiple national tournament appearances and a recent national championship runner-up finish. With over 20 years of coaching experience, she has learned that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about culture, leadership, and the ability to evolve. We dive into the evolution of her coaching mindset, from trusting her players and staff to building a culture centered on positive intent. Trish shares how she has adapted to the changing landscape of coaching, the importance of showing love and belief in her players, and the role that ownership and leadership development played in Bellevue’s historic run. We also discuss: ✅ How championship teams are built from the inside out ✅ Why trust and alignment between coaches and players are critical ✅ The impact of positive intent on team culture and performance ✅ What Trish learned from the highest of highs and lowest of lows this season ✅ How mindset played a key role in the team’s ability to stay resilient and max out when it mattered most This episode is packed with wisdom for coaches, athletes, and leaders looking to develop a winning mindset. Tune in to learn how elite teams are made—and how they sustain success even through challenges. 🎧 Listen now!

We welcome Jordy Bahl back for a second podcast episode, where she dives deeper into her incredible journey. Jordy shares her experiences transitioning from Oklahoma to Nebraska after an ACL injury and reflects on the evolving concept of "maxing out." She opens up about her struggles with perfectionism, adopting a "good enough" mindset, and embracing vulnerability to foster team unity. Jordy shares her strategies for overcoming challenges, such as leaning on spirituality, maintaining perspective, and using visualization to bolster confidence. Jordy also explores the importance of role acceptance and team unity, noting how players' attitudes—on and off the field—affect team success. As a leader, she stresses the importance of consistency, open communication, and balancing accountability with compassion. Don't miss Jordy's inspiring advice to her future self as she continues her fearless pursuit of excellence. Max Out Mindset for Softball Book Max out Mindset services here. Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@scottpapek Twitter: @scottpapek

Welcome to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. This is your host, Dr. Larry Widman, and my co-host, Coach Jess Knecht. Our guest today is someone who knows all about performing under pressure and achieving greatness. She has had an extraordinary athletic and coaching career. Her journey started as a standout athlete at Georgia Tech University, where she played on the right side and helped her team reach the Elite Eight in 2003. Her coaching career has been equally impressive, with stops at Appalachian State, the University of Miami, and the University of Kansas. As an assistant coach at Kansas, she played a key role in leading the program to its first-ever Final Four appearance. From there, she became the head coach at Texas A&M, where she guided the team to a Sweet 16 appearance. Most recently, she stepped into the professional volleyball world as an assistant coach for the Omaha Supernovas in the Pro Volleyball Federation. She quickly rose to the position of interim head coach and led the team to an incredible inaugural season, culminating in a national championship. That championship was particularly special, as it marked the first professional volleyball league national championship in America. She embodies everything it means to max out with an overall coaching record of 444-172. Bird emphasizes the foundational role of relationships, mental toughness, and authenticity in her coaching approach. She candidly shares the challenges she faced, particularly in navigating role acceptance within a professional league and the importance of strong administrative support. Reflecting on her decision to return for a second season, she highlights the value of relationships and the competitive chemistry within her team as driving factors. Please welcome Coach Laura "Bird" Kuhn to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. We are so excited to have you here to share your journey and insights. Let’s dive in! Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Welcome to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. This is your host, Dr. Larry Widman, and my co-host, Coach Jess Knecht. Our guest today is someone who knows all about performing under pressure and achieving greatness. She has had an extraordinary athletic and coaching career. Her journey started as a standout athlete at Georgia Tech University, where she played on the right side and helped her team reach the Elite Eight in 2003. Her coaching career has been equally impressive, with stops at Appalachian State, the University of Miami, and the University of Kansas. As an assistant coach at Kansas, she played a key role in leading the program to its first-ever Final Four appearance. From there, she became the head coach at Texas A&M, where she guided the team to a Sweet 16 appearance. Most recently, she stepped into the professional volleyball world as an assistant coach for the Omaha Supernovas in the Pro Volleyball Federation. She quickly rose to the position of interim head coach and led the team to an incredible inaugural season, culminating in a national championship. That championship was particularly special, as it marked the first professional volleyball league national championship in America. She embodies everything it means to max out with an overall coaching record of 444-172. Bird emphasizes the foundational role of relationships, mental toughness, and authenticity in her coaching approach. She candidly shares the challenges she faced, particularly in navigating role acceptance within a professional league and the importance of strong administrative support. Reflecting on her decision to return for a second season, she highlights the value of relationships and the competitive chemistry within her team as driving factors. Please welcome Coach Laura "Bird" Kuhn to the Max Out Mindset Podcast. We are so excited to have you here to share your journey and insights. Let’s dive in! Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

In this episode of the Max Out Mindset podcast, we explore the remarkable journey of Steven Ashworth, basketball player at Creighton University. Steven shares his experiences of overcoming challenges, from being doubted and undersized to becoming a key player through relentless work ethic and mental toughness. He reflects on his personal definition of "maxing out," which means surpassing expectations with the support of teammates, coaches, and for some, sports psychologists. Steven emphasizes the importance of trust, communication, and being present both on the court and in life. He also offers insights into his strategies for overcoming fear and comparison, while highlighting the pivotal role of Coach Mac in building player confidence and fostering team dynamics. Visit maxoutmindset.com for our 1:1 Elite Mindset coaching and team services. AAU, Club, High School, and College Basketball Teams: Click here to learn more about our services. Follow Doc: Twitter: @Doc_elitemind Instagram: @max_out_mindset Follow Scott: Instagram: @scottpapek Twitter: @scottpapek

Today’s guest is an accomplished athlete from Elkhart, Indiana, a two-time state champion at Penn High School and an All-American at Purdue University. She was named the 2019 Best Opposite at the FIVB World Cup and USA Volleyball Player of the Year, having been a member of the national team since 2017. A key player on the 2020 Tokyo Olympic team that won the first-ever gold medal for U.S. Volleyball, she came off the bench as a game-changer before starting the final games, leading the team with 97 points and 88 kills. In 2024, she followed up with a silver medal at the Paris Olympics and broke the all-time points record for a U.S. volleyball player, surpassing the previous record set by Destiny Hooker. Most of our listeners will truly appreciate Annie Drews's willingness to explore the role that mindset training can play in elevating performance at this point in her career. Please welcome Annie Drews to the Max Out Mindset podcast. Max Out Mindset for Volleyball Book Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

We are thrilled to have a special guest on today’s episode: Brooke Nuneviller, a powerhouse in the world of volleyball. Brooke spent five remarkable years at the University of Oregon, where she made her mark as a four-time All-Pac-12 selection and a three-time AVCA All-American. She’s the first and only athlete in Pac-12 history to achieve over 1,500 kills and 2,000 digs in a career, a testament to her unmatched skill and dedication. Brooke has also been a vital member of the US Women’s National Team, playing a key role in securing the gold medal at the 2023 NORCECA Pan American Cup Final. Her professional career has taken her across the globe, from competing in Turkey to making her mark in Athletes Unlimited. Most recently, Brooke captained the Omaha Supernovas to victory in the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation National Championship. In this episode, Brooke shares her journey, the mindset required to excel under pressure, and the lessons learned from competing at the highest levels of the sport. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or sports enthusiast, Brooke’s insights into reaching the limits of your capabilities, especially when it matters most, will inspire and motivate you. Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Today, we are thrilled to welcome Sydney Hilley to the Max Out Mindset podcast. Sydney was a four-time captain at the University of Wisconsin, showcasing her leadership and commitment. She was named Big 10 Setter of the Year three times, and for those Nebraska fans out there, you'll remember her stellar performance in the five-set victory that secured Wisconsin the 2021 National Championship. Sydney's collegiate career boasts 6,138 assists, with a remarkable 78 assists in a single match! On the national stage, Sydney contributed to the bronze medal win at the Pan-Am Cup and played a pivotal role in securing the gold medal at the 2023 NORCECA Pan-American Final Six. I first met Sydney through the Omaha Supernovas, where she helped lead them to victory in the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation National Championship and was named the MVP of the championship match. Join us as we dive into the journey and mindset of this incredible leader and athlete, Sydney Hilley. Despite not playing much during the last few weeks of the season, when her number was called, she was ready for her moment and delivered when it mattered most. Max out Mindset for Volleyball book and services here. Instagram: @max_out_mind_Jess and on Twitter: @JessKnecht Instagram:@max_out_mindset Twitter: @Doc_elitemind

Join Kelly Kinney, a top volleyball recruit from West Palm Beach, FL, and a University of Minnesota commit. Kelly's journey of resilience and success is an inspiring story of overcoming adversity that led to her biggest breakthroughs. Her injury focused her determination to work harder, leading to remarkable achievements as a U19 and U21 USA Volleyball National Team member. Kelly shares valuable insights and strategies to help you cultivate a winning mindset to achieve your goals. Rejection, comparison, and struggle are part of the journey to achieve success. Welcome, Kelly, to the podcast! Want to learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess? Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mind_jess and X @JessKnecht.

From Cave Creek, Arizona, Kam Gibadlo grew up as a multi-sport athlete. She was recently named to the 2024 USA Volleyball U21 National Team roster and just completed her freshman year at the University of Utah. She earned post-season honors as she was named to the 2023 Pac-12 Freshman Team. Past accomplishments include being a member of the 2023 USAV GJNC 18 Open All-American team, where her team finished third in the nation. In this episode, Kam shares her inspiring journey and opens up about how cultivating joy on and off the court has given her a competitive edge. From overcoming self-confidence challenges to celebrating her strengths, Kam's contagious competitive spirit and joy on and off the court will have you rethinking the powerful role of joy in achieving peak performance. This rising star offers an insightful perspective on finding purpose beyond just the sport you play. Want to learn more about mindset training with Coach Jess? Please visit www.maxoutmindset.com. Follow Coach Jess on Instagram @max_out_mind_jess and X @JessKnecht.