Mental Training + Race Preparation with Dr. Erin Ayala

Apr 10, 2026 · 56 min

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!

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Episode Resources

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

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

Feisty Fest: Join us from September 18-20, 2026 - https://feisty.co/events/feisty-fest/

Mental Training + Race Preparation with Dr. Erin Ayala

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