In this episode of Blacklight On Sports, Charles Hallman and Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald sit down with sport psychologist Dr. Kirbi Kidd, Psy.D., to explore the mental challenges athletes face—and how they can overcome them.

A former collegiate basketball player turned clinical psychologist, Dr. Kidd brings a powerful combination of personal experience and academic training to the conversation. From the emotional toll of competition to strategies for building resilience, she shares practical tools to help athletes perform under pressure and maintain their mental well-being.

Topics include:

• The psychological demands of competitive sports
• Building confidence and breaking through mental blocks
• Why trust and rapport matter in sport psychology
• The impact of culturally competent care for athletes of color

Dr. Kidd earned degrees from Mount Holyoke College and Springfield College and now works directly with athletes to help them achieve both performance and personal goals.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, parent, or fan, this episode offers powerful insights into the mind behind the game.

Executive Producer/CEO Publisher
Tracey Williams-Dillard

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder
3744 4th Ave South
Minneapolis MN 55409
612-827-4021

MSR Digital Studio
Ray Seville

Charles Hallman
MSR Sports Columnist

Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald, PhE.
MSR Sports Columnist

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MINNESOTA SPOKESMAN-RECORDER 1934