Mental Training + Race Preparation with Dr. Erin Ayala

Whether you’re taking on your first 10K or about to run Boston, this episode offers practical, insightful advice from guest Erin Ayala, Ph.D., a Minneapolis-based sport psychologist and host of Feisty Women’s Performance podcast. Along with hosts Sarah Bowen Shea and Coach Liz Waterstraat, Erin shares:

• the value of “scary, joyful, and new” challenges;
• real-world suggestions for getting your brain on board w/ training;
• a gut-wrenching tale of a recent race going sideways;
• a 21st-century option for creating a vision board; and,
• the importance of feeling all the feels post-race.

Before Erin hops on around 07:10, Coach Liz and Sarah reveal how they approach workouts while on vacation. Hydration bonus: Chug every time Erin includes a rhyme in a response!

Shop our sponsors:

Momentous: Use code AMR for up to 35% off your first order at https://www.livemomentous.com/

Wahoo Kickr Run: Use the code FEISTY2026 to get a free Headwind Smart Fan (value $300) with the purchase of a Wahoo KICKR RUN at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr

Episode Resources

Erin Ayala: https://www.skadisportpsychology.com/

Feisty Women’s Performance podcast: https://feisty.co/podcasts/feisty-womens-performance/

Join AMR at the Grand Traverse in Duluth, MN on October 3rd! Use code AMR20 for $20 off when you register at https://feisty.co/events/the-grand-traverse/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themotherrunner/