The Lockeroom
The Lockeroom is where the real conversations in sports happen. Hosted by former pro athlete Averie Collins and renowned sport psychologist Dr. Stu Singer, this podcast dives deep into the mental side of elite athletics.
Through raw and honest conversations with professional athletes and the people in their corner, we explore the invisible battles—anxiety, self-doubt, identity loss, and more—that athletes must overcome to achieve greatness.
From the pressure of roster selections to the mindset shifts that shape entire careers, these are the stories that usually stay behind closed doors. Whether you're an athlete, competitor, coach, or someone chasing growth, The Lockeroom is your front-row seat to the mental game of sports.
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The Lockeroom
Maddie Pogarch: How Mental Health Made Me a Better Pro
In this episode of The Lockeroom, we’re joined by Maddie Pogarch — defender for the Utah Royals, entering her seventh year in the NWSL and stepping into true veteran status. But what makes Po stand out isn’t just her consistency on the field — it’s her voice off of it. She’s the secretary of the NWSL Players Association and the founder of Positive Apparel, a clothing brand rooted in mental health and self-expression.
Po opens up about how, for the first time in her soccer career, turning pro brought pressure, uncertainty, and performance anxiety she had never experienced before. From earning her first contract as a trialist to fighting for every minute on the pitch, nothing was guaranteed — and it took a toll. In this conversation, she shares how therapy, meditation, and learning to name her emotions became essential tools to not just survive but enjoy the game again.
We dive into the reality of low motivation, the myth that you have to be “on” every day, and why learning to disconnect can actually fuel longevity. Po also talks about finding her flow state, the importance of having a life outside of soccer, and how she now approaches conversations with her coaches from a place of grounded confidence.
This episode is a vulnerable, honest look at what it means to be a professional athlete — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Whether you're chasing a dream or simply navigating high-pressure moments in your own life, Po’s story is a powerful reminder that your mindset is your greatest tool.