World record holder Van Mathias joins the Mental Toughness Podcast with Dr. Rob Bell to discuss breaking the American record and world record in the 100-meter short course breaststroke on the same day

Van shares how stepping away from competitive swimming transformed his perspective, why he returned to the sport, and how training with Indiana University's elite swimmers helped him reach another level. The conversation explores mental toughness, confidence, coachability, gratitude, finding an identity beyond performance, and the importance of enjoying the journey while pursuing world-class goals.

0:52 Breaking the American Record and World Record on the Same Day

4:29 Doing the Work Nobody Wants to Do

7:09 Finding Areas to Improve Even After Breaking Records

9:30 The Power of Relays and Competing for Teammates

12:52 Building Confidence by Training at Race Speed

15:21 Stepping Away From Swimming and Rediscovering the Joy of Competition

18:59 Gratitude, Perspective, and Always Wanting More

21:09 Developing an Identity Beyond Swimming and Performance

23:15 The Humility of Wearing the Team USA Cap

26:48 Advice to Young Swimmers: Never Lose the Fun

30:23 Coachability and Learning From Great Coaches

37:38 Chasing Bigger Goals Without Losing Perspective

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Dr. Rob Bell

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