Season 2, Episode 11
Guest: Dr. Nicole Polanichka — Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Mental Performance Consultant, Veteran Fencer
What we cover
Nicole’s fencing origin story (and The Princess Bride connection)
The veteran fencing community as a supportive, lifelong home
How her psychology training reshaped her approach to competition
Why the stigma around mental health in sports is lifting
What makes fencing unique: individual pressure + fight-or-flight triggers
Red flags for parents: when nerves cross into fear or lost joy
Physiology of competition-day anxiety (and why it helps, not hurts)
Reframing nerves as “go juice” and building pre-bout mantras
What parents and coaches can do (and not do) to support athletes
Pre-competition routines: control the controllables, consistency, music, notes
Reset tools after a bad bout: “short memory,” rituals, music, breathing
Staying consistent through higher-pressure rounds to avoid choking
Quick hits:
Mask mantra: “Excitement, not fear”
Weather forecast for her nerves
Taylor Swift on her playlist
Recommended book: Beyond Grit
Visualization & mindfulness as five-minute club drills
Quotable
“Your body isn’t telling you you’re afraid—it’s telling you it’s go time.” — Dr. Nicole Polanichka
“Control the controllables. Consistency breeds confidence.” — Dr. Nicole Polanichka
Call to action
If you’d like to connect with Dr. Polanichka, you can reach her at nicolepolanichka@gmail.com or spot her at veteran events nationwide.
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First to 15: The Official Podcast of USA Fencing
Host: Bryan Wendell
Cover art: Manna Creations
Theme music: Brian Sanyshyn
