Raising Athletes
The Strength to Be Vulnerable: Avery Nelson on Athlete Mental Health | EP 191
What does it really mean to be mentally tough? In sports, athletes are taught to be resilient, stay composed under pressure, and push through adversity. But sometimes, the expectation to always be “tough” can make it difficult to admit when we’re struggling. In this episode, Kirsten sits down with Avery Nelson , who brings a unique perspective through her training in both performance psychology and mental health counseling. Avery and Kirsten explore what happens when athletes, coaches, and high performers feel like they have to carry everything on their own This conversation is a reminder that the person behind the performance matters. Real strength isn’t about carrying the weight alone—it’s having the courage to acknowledge what you’re feeling, ask for support, and figure out what comes next. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or simply someone navigating a high-pressure season of life, this episode offers a powerful reminder: you don’t have to face it alone.
