The Mental Cast

Say Goodbye (Ep. 027)

Episode 027 | Say Goodbye | April 2022
Season 4 kicks off with this reflective episode of The MentalCast, where host Dan Mickle explores the concept of walking away — how to recognize when it is time, why it is sometimes necessary, and the personal and professional growth that can come from making that difficult choice.
This episode also gets a little personal, as Dan shares his own experiences and insights on walking away from roles, opportunities, and situations that no longer align with his values or vision.
We are excited to bring you another season of conversations centered on mental performance, coaching, leadership, and personal development.
Topics covered:
Recognizing when it is time to walk away
The emotional and mental process of letting go
How stepping away can open the door to new growth
Aligning decisions with values and personal well-being
Reflections on leadership, boundaries, and self-care
Resources mentioned:
5 Signs It's Time to Quit Your Volunteer Role by Cynthia Lockrey
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Why I Walked Away (Ep. 026)

Episode 026 | Why I Walked Away | November 2021
Continuing the theme of openness and personal reflection, in this episode of The MentalCast, host Dan Mickle shares from the heart about why he made the difficult decision to walk away from his role as a youth club director.
This unscripted and unedited conversation dives into the challenges he faced with organizational culture, the personal toll it took, and the clarity he gained through the experience. Dan also discusses the new path and vision he is pursuing…one grounded in authenticity, purpose, and personal values.
For anyone facing tough career decisions, culture challenges, or seeking to align their work with their true purpose, this is a deeply relatable and honest episode.
Topics covered:
Why Dan chose to step away from being a youth club director
The struggles and challenges with organizational culture
The personal impact of difficult leadership decisions
Lessons learned and new visions for the future
A message of gratitude to those who supported the journey
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

I Wasn‘t Prepared (Ep. 025)

Episode 025 | I Wasn't Prepared | September 2021
In what may be the most open and vulnerable episode of The MentalCast to date, host Dan Mickle takes the mic solo to share where he has been over the past two months and the personal struggles he has been navigating.
This unscripted and unedited conversation dives into Dan’s experience with burnout: what it looked like, how it impacted him, and how he began to fight his way back. It is a raw and honest look at an all-too-common challenge that many coaches, leaders, and high performers face — often in silence.
If you have ever struggled with burnout, exhaustion, or finding your footing again after a tough season, this episode is here to remind you that you are not alone.
Topics covered:
Recognizing the signs of burnout
What burnout feels like behind the scenes
Fighting through the toughest moments
Why it is okay to step back and ask for help
Coming back stronger and with new perspective
Contact the show: podcast@mentalcast.com
Follow Dan on social: @RealDanMickle and @717Soul

Dr. Laura Cobb Interview (Ep. 024)

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

Sadie Evans Interview (Ep. 023)

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

Joanna Pohorski Interview (Ep. 022)

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

Tracy Lamouire Interview (Ep. 021)

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

Colin C. Thompson Interview (Ep. 020)

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

Anne-Marie Brandt Interview (Ep. 019)

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

Brent Magnussen Interview (Ep. 018)

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