The Mental Cast

Episode 024 | Chat with Dr. Laura Cobb - LPC, NCC, and CFLE. | July 2021
Episode 6 of Season 3 brings us a powerful conversation between host Dan Mickle and Dr. Laura Cobb — life coach, licensed professional counselor (LPC), nationally certified counselor (NCC), and certified family life educator (CFLE).
Dan and Dr. Laura dive into the topic of imposter syndrome and how our past challenges shape who we become. They explore the dynamics of both being bullied and being a bully, and how reflecting on those experiences can help foster growth and self-awareness.
This is an honest, reflective discussion with plenty of valuable insights for anyone interested in personal growth, mental performance, and emotional resilience.
Topics covered:
Understanding and overcoming imposter syndrome
How past challenges shape personal identity
The dynamics of bullying — from both sides
How to reflect on difficult experiences for growth
Tools for building self-awareness and emotional resilience
Guest links:
Dr. Laura Cobb Website
Dr. Laura Cobb on Facebook | LinkedIn
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Episode 023 | Chat with Sadie Evans - Author, Speaker, and Podcast Host | June 2021
In this episode of The MentalCast, host Dan Mickle has a thoughtful conversation with Sadie Mae Evans — accomplished author, speaker, and podcast host.
Dan and Sadie discuss what inspired her to write her books, what continues to drive her forward, and how her experiences with early adversity helped shape her powerful message today. This conversation offers an inspiring look at turning challenges into purpose and creating positive impact through storytelling, speaking, and coaching.
If you are looking for motivation to move through life’s obstacles or seeking insight into building a message-driven career, this episode is packed with wisdom and heart.
Topics covered:
What inspired Sadie’s writing and speaking career
Turning adversity into a message of empowerment
How to stay motivated and purposeful
Building a platform through books, speaking, and podcasting
Lessons in resilience and personal growth
Guest links:
Sadie Mae Evans Website
Sadie Mae Evans on Facebook | Instagram | Podcast
Books by Sadie Mae Evans on Amazon
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Episode 022 | Chat with Joanna Pohorski - Accountability and Mindset Coach | May 2021
In this episode of The MentalCast, host Dan Mickle sits down with UK-based accountability and mindset coach Joanna Pohorski for an engaging conversation about business planning, personal growth, and staying accountable in an ever-changing world.
Joanna shares the framework behind her Accountability Mindset program and offers insights on how entrepreneurs and professionals can build the discipline and structure needed to fuel their success. Dan and Joanna also explore how the pandemic has reshaped business practices and the way we approach personal accountability and goal setting.
If you are an entrepreneur, coach, or anyone looking to level up your mindset and follow through on your goals, this episode delivers practical takeaways and plenty of inspiration.
Topics covered:
Building accountability into your daily routine
The Accountability Mindset framework
Why mindset and planning drive business growth
How the pandemic changed business and accountability practices
Tips for holding yourself accountable for personal and professional success
Guest links:
The Accountability Mindset Website
Joanna Pohorski on Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Episode 021 | Chat with Tracy Lamourie - Public Relations Guru and Social Justice Warrior | May 2021
In this episode of The MentalCast, host Dan Mickle chats with international PR powerhouse Tracy Lamourie. They dive into the world of public relations — what it really takes to launch a PR business, why everyone (yes, everyone) should consider working with a PR professional, and how the pandemic has shifted the landscape of the industry.
Tracy also shares one of her most powerful life experiences: helping to free Jimmy Dennis from death row — an incredible story that is featured in Rolling Stone.
For anyone interested in entrepreneurship, brand building, or social justice, this conversation is full of valuable takeaways and fascinating insights.
Topics covered:
Making the leap to start your own company
The evolving world of PR and brand management
Why even small businesses need a PR strategy
How COVID-19 changed the PR landscape
The Jimmy Dennis story and Tracy’s fight for justice
Guest links:
LamourieMedia Website
Tracy Lamourie on Facebook | Instagram
The Jimmy Dennis Story — Rolling Stone Article
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Episode 020 | Chat with Colin C. Thompson - Founder of Oligye Enterprises | February 2021
In this episode of The MentalCast, host Dan Mickle has a fascinating conversation with Colin C. Thompson, founder of Oligye Enterprises, personal development and career transition coach, and blockchain innovator. Colin joins the podcast from Shanghai, bringing a global perspective to their discussion.
Dan and Colin explore coaching during the pandemic, the importance of life and soft skills, and the challenges athletes face when transitioning from college sports to the professional world. Colin also shares his personal journey into the world of running, a passion that didn’t always come naturally.
This wide-ranging chat is packed with actionable insights and inspiration for coaches, athletes, and professionals alike.
Technical note: Due to a system outage around the 52-minute mark, a brief segment of the interview was disrupted.
Topics covered:
Coaching and leadership during a global pandemic
Building life and soft skills through sports
Transitioning from college athletics to the business world
The evolving world of blockchain technology
Developing a passion for running and personal growth
Guest links:
Oligye Enterprises Website
Colin C. Thompson on LinkedIn
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Episode 019 | Chat with Anne-Marie Brandt - Marketing Guru | February 2021
We kick off Season 3 of The MentalCast with a thoughtful conversation between host Dan Mickle and solopreneur Anne-Marie Brandt, owner of Team Brandt Marketing. Dan and Anne-Marie, friends for over 30 years, dive into the topic of saying no — and the value of truly taking a break without guilt.
In today’s hustle-driven culture, it can feel like everyone is supposed to be grinding 24/7. But sometimes, stepping back and prioritizing rest is just as important as the work itself. Dan and Anne-Marie share personal insights on how to create a more balanced, sustainable approach to life and work.
If you have ever struggled with overcommitment or the pressure to always be “on,” this episode will give you permission to breathe — and some practical wisdom on how to do it.
Topics covered:
The power of saying no
How to take breaks without guilt
Why rest is a crucial part of success
Letting go of the pressure to hustle 24/7
Creating a more intentional and sustainable life
Guest links:
Team Brandt Marketing Website
Team Brandt Marketing on Facebook
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Episode 018 | Chat with Brent Magnussen - Author, Public Speaker, and Fmr. Army Engineer | November 2020
This episode of The MentalCast features a dynamic conversation between host Dan Mickle and Brent Magnussen, author of Roger Up!, public speaker, and former Army engineer.
Dan and Brent dive into the power of routines, goal setting, and mindset — all themes central to Brent’s book and speaking work. They also explore the role of martial arts, specifically Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, in building mental and physical resilience. Along the way, Dan gets to test and confirm parts of his own morning ritual, something Brent passionately advocates for.
As usual, there were far more topics on the table than time allowed, making this an episode packed with energy and actionable insights.
Topics covered:
The role of daily routines in building success
Goal setting strategies for athletes and leaders
Mental and physical resilience through martial arts
Lessons from Roger Up!
Creating a personal morning ritual
Guest links:
Brent Magnussen Website
Brent Magnussen on Facebook | Speaking Bookings | Instagram
Roger Up! by Brent Magnussen on Amazon
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Episode 017 | Chat with Jay Hosack - George Mason Men's Volleyball Head Coach. | November 2020
In this episode of The MentalCast, host Dan Mickle sits down with friend and fellow coach Jay Hosack, head coach of George Mason University Men’s Volleyball.
Dan and Jay dive into the realities of the coaching ladder — how to move up in the coaching ranks, and the often overlooked question: Should you move up? The conversation explores key career decisions, personal reflections, and the mindset needed to navigate the coaching world.
Jay also shares the story behind his own big move from sunny California to Happy Valley, and the pivotal moment when Penn State head coach Mark Pavlik gave his blessing for Jay to pursue a head coaching position. This is an informal, insightful chat between two experienced coaches who have traveled their own unique career paths.
Production note: There are some audio issues in this recording that were not discovered until post-production. Thanks for your understanding!
Topics covered:
Navigating the coaching career ladder
Knowing when (and if) to move up in the coaching world
Key moments and decisions in coaching careers
Jay’s cross-country coaching journey
Insights on mentorship and career growth in sports
Guest links:
George Mason University Men's Volleyball Website
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Episode 016 | Chat with Claudio Reilsono - Carnegie Mellon Baseball Head Coach and | November 2020
In this episode of The MentalCast, host Dan Mickle has an engaging conversation with Claudio Reilsono, head baseball coach at Carnegie Mellon University, professional scout with the Global Scouting Bureau, public speaker, and author.
Dan and Claudio discuss the differences between coaching at the college and high school levels, what truly defines a great player, and a wide range of other insightful topics drawn from Claudio’s extensive experience in the game. They also dive into Claudio’s new book, Lead From the Heart Up, Not the Neck Up, which explores leadership and coaching philosophies rooted in authenticity and connection.
And yes, you may hear a surprise fire alarm partway through — but the conversation powers right through!
Topics covered:
Coaching differences between college and high school levels
What makes a truly great player
Leadership philosophies in coaching
Insights from Lead From the Heart Up, Not the Neck Up
The scouting process and player evaluation
Guest links:
Claudio Reilsono Website
Claudio Reilsono on Twitter
Lead From the Heart Up, Not the Neck Up Book Link
Global Scouting Bureau Website
Global Scouting Bureau on Facebook
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Episode 015 | Chat with Karl France - NYU Men's Volleyball Assistant Coach (Part 1) | October 2020
In this episode of The MentalCast, host Dan Mickle sits down with long-time friend Karl France, assistant coach for NYU Men’s Volleyball. This conversation was sparked by a casual discussion between the two during the COVID-19 pandemic, and what unfolded was a thoughtful deep dive into language, perception, and sports culture.
Dan and Karl explore the way words like “normal” and “average” are used in everyday life and in the sports world, and how these terms often create unintended limitations or misunderstandings. The two also touch on one of sports’ most heated debates: MJ vs. Kobe vs. LeBron.
This is just Part 1 of their conversation — there was far too much ground to cover in one session, so stay tuned for Part II in a future episode!
Topics covered:
How the words “normal” and “average” shape mindset
Reframing language for better coaching and leadership
The MJ, Kobe, and LeBron debate
Personal reflections from two long-time coaches
A preview of what’s to come in Part II
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul