How do NFL kickers maintain their confidence in a position where they handle a lot of pressure in their role?

In episode 37, co-hosts Ryan Harris and Bennie Fowler sit down with Stephen Hauschka, a 13-year NFL veteran, Super Bowl champion, and now an entrepreneur, speaker, coach, and consultant. Stephen shares his unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of being a kicker in the NFL, a position that often faces intense scrutiny and pressure. He opens up about the mental strategies he employed to cultivate confidence and overcome setbacks, as well as the supportive culture he experienced during his time with the Seattle Seahawks. Stephen also talks about his transition from the NFL and the importance of self-awareness and resourcefulness in his post-football career.

[00:00 - 03:54] The Unique Challenges of Being an NFL Kicker

• Kickers have very few opportunities to make an impact on the game
• Mental preparation is crucial to cultivate confidence before stepping onto the field
• Dealing with the intense highs and lows of helping the team win or lose

[03:55 - 10:01] Overcoming Missed Kicks and Developing Self-Love

• Toughest moments after missing game-deciding kicks
• The importance of forgiving oneself and cultivating self-love to move forward
• Using tapping techniques and affirmations to build confidence and release concerns

[10:02 - 16:55] From Soccer to Super Bowl Champion

• The journey from Middlebury soccer to the NFL
• The supportive culture and brotherhood within the Seattle Seahawks organization
• Working with mental performance coach Michael Gervais

[16:56 - 22:30] Navigating the NFL as a Kicker

• Dealing with the perception of kickers not being "real football players"
• The importance of hard work, discipline, and authenticity in gaining teammates' respect
• Hauschka's transition out of the NFL and the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic

[22:31 - 25:53] Inside the NFL Locker Room

• The diverse backgrounds and perspectives of NFL players
• Connecting with teammates from different walks of life
• Favorite Marshawn Lynch's story

[25:54 - 28:04] Keys to Success On and Off the Field

• The challenge of figuring out what to do after football
• The importance of self-awareness, resourcefulness, and continuous improvement
• Advice for navigating life after the NFL

Key quotes:

“Move in the direction that you want to move.” - Stephen Hauschka

Getting to understand different people's perspectives and getting to connect like on a really deep level with people that I wouldn't have without football." - Stephen Hauschka


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Reach out to Bennie Fowler!
Instagram: @benniefowler1
Twitter: @BennieFowler123

Reach out to Ryan Harris!
Instagram: @ryanharris_68
Twitter: @ryanharris_68

Connect with Stephen Hauschka!
Instagram: @stephenhauschka4

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