Taryn Brasher & Kristen Nuss Cruz | The Mental Side of Being Elite in the World of Beach Volleyball
About this episode
The episode features an in-depth discussion with Taryn Brasher and Kristen Nuss Cruz about the mental aspects of elite beach volleyball performance.
In this episode of the Max Out Mindset Podcast, Dr. Larry Widman and Coach Jess sit down once again with the number one beach volleyball team in the world, Taryn Brasher and Kristen Nuss Cruz, for an honest conversation about growth, pressure, and the mental work behind elite performance. This is the third time Taryn and Kristen have joined the show, and their journey has evolved in powerful ways. After the emotional highs and lows surrounding the Olympic experience, they reflect on what it truly means to grow as athletes and teammates. The conversation dives deep into how elite performers navigate disappointment, rebuild belief, and continue to push forward. Taryn shares the internal work that helped her develop confidence and self-trust, while Kristen talks about the mindset shifts that allowed them to keep improving even while competing at the highest level in the world. You'll hear powerful insights on communication between teammates, handling pressure on the biggest stages, and why vulnerability and honesty are essential for teams that want to sustain success. Taryn also shares how journaling became a critical tool for managing thoughts, building belief, and improving sleep…
People in this episode
Hosts: Dr. Larry Widman, Coach Jess
Guests: Taryn Brasher, Kristen Nuss Cruz
Topics covered
- mental performance
- elite athletes
- beach volleyball
- team dynamics
- confidence building
- pressure management
Keywords
- mental side
- elite performance
- athlete growth
- team communication
- vulnerability
- journaling
- self-trust
- pressure handling
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Olympics, beach volleyball
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- John Cook - Sustained Excellence
- Maxing Out: Norah Sis on Joy, Culture, Confidence & Winning
- Rhonda Revelle: Beyond the Scoreboard: Finding Joy and Trust in the Journey
- Baylor Scheierman - Boston Celtic on Playing Free and Confident Through Faith and Preparation
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