188 - When It All Falls Apart

188 - When It All Falls Apart

From Power Through the 4th Whistle Roller Derby Podcast by Jackie Bauer

February 17, 2026 · 1h 15m · Season 7 · Episode 2

About this episode

This episode explores the psychology of pressure in sports, focusing on the journey of Ilia Malinin during the Winter Olympics and the challenges of performing under pressure.

Our heroes become gods...and then sometimes, our gods become human. This week we’re diving into the Olympics, figure skating, the Quad God, and the brutal beauty of performing under pressure. The journey of the seemingly unbeatable Ilia Malinin is one of the biggest stories of this Winter Olympics. Let's explore what happens when the gold feels inevitable… and then suddenly isn’t. Why is it easier to chase than to defend? Why do we play freely when we have nothing to lose—but tighten up when it’s ours to win? And what’s actually happening in our brains when we “choke”? This episode unpacks the psychology of pressure, the art of recovering from mistakes, and how to keep caring deeply without letting nerves take over. If you’ve ever folded when it mattered most—or been afraid you might—this one’s for you. The book referenced in this episode is Choke by Sian Beilock. Photo by WANG ZHAO/AFP Podcast logo by Liz Mac Intyre To find about more about the K1 Speed Rollerskating Race Event coming up in Traverse City, follow Traverse City Roller Derby on socials: ⁠@tcrollerderby⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/tcrollerderby⁠ Follow our Facebook page at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠…

Topics covered

  • Olympics
  • figure skating
  • psychology of pressure
  • performance under pressure
  • Ilia Malinin

Keywords

  • choke
  • performance
  • mistakes
  • nerves
  • K1 Speed Rollerskating Race Event

Mentioned in this episode

Products: Choke by Sian Beilock

Places: Traverse City

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