SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS HERE: The Ditto Podcast Q&A Episode

In Episode #14, Ashley Hatch and Dr. Matt Moore discuss the topic of changing our relationship with stress. They explore the definition of stress as an imbalance between environmental demands and personal resources. They emphasize the importance of accepting what we can control and focusing on attitude, preparation, and effort. They also introduce the four-stage process of stress, which includes environmental demands, perception of demands, stress response, and behavioral consequences. The conversation highlights the need to change our perception of stress and utilize psychological resources to manage it effectively.

In Episode #13, Ash and Matt talk about goals and setting goals. They share their personal experiences with goal setting and explore the differences between the traditional "SMART Goals" approach and the more "Open Goals" approach. They discuss the limitations of SMART goals and how they can lead to a rigid and all-or-nothing mentality. They highlight the importance of focusing on the process and enjoying the day-to-day journey rather than solely focusing on the end result. They provide insights into how goal setting can be tailored to individual preferences and personalities. They share personal examples of how they have implemented open goals in their own lives, both in sports and other areas. They also discuss the benefits of remaining flexible and adaptable in pursuing goals.

Happy 4th of July! In this episode, Dr. Matt Moore and Ashley Hatch interview John M. Edwards, a retired United States Army Command Sergeant Major and leadership coach. They discuss John's military experience, his journey to becoming a Command Sergeant Major, and the lessons in leadership that can be learned from the military. John emphasizes the importance of being both warm and demanding as a leader, and the value of creating a culture of accountability. He shares his insights on leadership and the military. He discusses the qualities that led to his promotion and success, emphasizing the importance of consistency, resilience, and effort. He also highlights the significance of cultural competence and relatability in leadership, drawing from his experience as a recruiter. Edwards emphasizes the values of the Army, including loyalty, duty, selfless service, honor, integrity, personal courage, and respect.

Ashley Hatch and Dr. Matt Moore are joined by Brendan Learn, a recent cancer survivor. They cover topics such as Brendan's diagnosis, treatment, and the support he received from his family. Brendan shares his thoughts and emotions throughout the process and how he found strength in supporting his loved ones. The conversation touches on the challenges Brendan faced, including two strokes and a bone marrow transplant. Brendan emphasizes the importance of appreciating life and the little things, as well as maintaining a positive outlook. He shares how the mantra 'Be Strong' became a guiding principle for him and his family. Brendan also highlights the support he received from nurses and doctors, as well as the power of humor in difficult times. He concludes by encouraging others to get back out there and live their lives fully.

In Episode #10, Ash and Matt discuss the concept of being a thermometer versus a thermostat, and how it relates to influencing one's environment. They talk about the importance of emotional regulation and self-awareness in becoming a thermostat. They also mention the impact of emotions on team dynamics and performance. The conversation highlights the need to pause, breathe, and reinterpret emotions to effectively regulate them. Positive examples of being a thermostat, such as providing constructive feedback and encouragement, are mentioned. They discuss the joy of seeing athletes release emotions after achieving their goals and the importance of remaining calm and composed. They also discuss the negative effects of coaches who belittle and denigrate their players, and the challenges of navigating such situations. They highlight the need for coaches to value and care for their players, and the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment.

Barry Hatch (Ash's dad), joins Ash and Matt on Ditto! They talk about the importance of passion, dedication, and determination in achieving success, and the role of parents in nurturing their children's interests. They delve into the experiences of Barry and Ash in sports and life. He discusses his approach to parenting and coaching his children, emphasizing the importance of passion, dedication, and determination. Ash reflects on her experiences and the valuable life lessons she learned from her father. A few themes from this conversation includes autonomy, unconditional love, pride in a child's achievements, and the influence of a father on a professional athlete's career. They also discuss importance of values, faith, and family in shaping an individual's identity and career.

Matt and Ash explore the concept of The Whole Athlete, emphasizing the importance of considering all aspects of an athlete's life, including physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational factors. Ashley Hatch shares her experiences as a professional soccer player and the role that faith and relationships play in her performance. Dr. Matt Moore discusses the holistic approach he takes in his work as a sports psychology professional, highlighting the interconnectedness of different aspects of a person's life. Both emphasize the need for athletes to recognize and nurture all areas of their lives to be the best they can be.

In this episode, Ashley Hatch and Dr. Matt Moore interview Aubrey Kingsbury, a professional soccer goalkeeper in the NWSL. Aubrey in an NWSL champion, 2-time NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year, and represented the United States Women's National Team at the 2023 World Cup. They delve into Aubrey's career as a goalkeeper, her preparation for games, and the mental and emotional aspects of her role. Aubrey shares her experiences with heckling from fans and how she stays focused during games. Additionally, she talks about using virtual reality training to improve her hand-eye coordination and emotional control. They discuss the importance of competition, the lessons learned from playing overseas, the role of spirituality in Aubrey's life, and the challenges and joys of being a professional athlete with a supportive spouse. Aubrey shares advice for young goalkeepers and emphasizes the importance of not being afraid to make mistakes.