From Setbacks to Comebacks: Raising Mentally Tough Athletes With Dr. Rob Bell

From Setbacks to Comebacks: Raising Mentally Tough Athletes With Dr. Rob Bell. How do you help young athletes bounce back after failure? Can you really teach mental toughness, or is it something kids learn by facing adversity? In this episode of I Love to Watch You Play, Asia Mape sits down with Dr. Rob Bell—sports psychologist, author, and advocate for raising resilient, joyful athletes.

Dr. Bell opens up about his own “hinge moment”—a life-changing event that ended his sports career but led to his passion for helping athletes thrive under pressure. He explains why failure is a bruise, not a tattoo, and shares why it’s essential to prepare kids for uncomfortable situations instead of shielding them from challenges.

Parents, this episode is a game-changer. You’ll learn how to:

Shift from “should-ing” on your kids to building their confidence.
Turn mistakes into tools for growth, not roadblocks.
Create an environment where athletes thrive on their terms—not yours.

If you’ve ever wondered how to strike the balance between pushing too hard and not pushing enough, Dr. Bell’s wisdom will resonate deeply. He also shares powerful insights on fear, why kids quit, and how one coach or moment can change everything.

It’s packed with actionable advice and fresh perspectives for anyone raising or coaching young athletes. Don’t miss this conversation, which will transform your approach to sports and parenting.
Resources & Links to Connect with Dr. Rob Bell