Danny Davis and Dave Blanchard break down how to rewire your mindset for peak performance in this powerful episode of Gridiron Unfiltered. Learn how habits, clarity, and passion drive athletic excellence.

How do elite athletes train their minds, not just their bodies, for success?

In this week’s episode of Gridiron Unfiltered, host Danny Davis sits down with Dave Blanchard, founder of the Og Mandino Companies and creator of the Habit Finder assessment, to explore the overlooked but crucial mental component of peak athletic performance. Together, they dive into how cognitive habits shape physical outcomes and how unlocking self-awareness can lead to powerful personal transformation both on and off the field.

The Brain Behind the Game

While physical strength and technical skill are often center stage in sports conversations, Blanchard makes the case that the real game-changer is mindset. Our thoughts, most of which operate subconsciously, affect how we process stress, recover from mistakes, and show up for practice. “We spend a lot of time talking about strength and speed,” Danny says. “But behind all of that is the brain: the control center.” Through the Habit Finder tool, athletes can assess their thought patterns and uncover hidden cognitive habits that may be holding them back or propelling them forward.

Visualization vs. Fantasy

One of the standout moments in the episode is Blanchard’s discussion of visualization. Many athletes use it to imagine peak performance, but without grounding it in daily work, visualization can turn into destructive fantasy. “Passion is not excitement,” Dave says. “Passion is a willingness to suffer for something you love.” That shift from wanting results to creating them can make or break an athlete’s trajectory.

Incremental Gains: The Millimeter Mindset

Blanchard encourages listeners to embrace tiny, daily improvements, what he calls millimeters of progress. Instead of chasing massive overnight change, focus on sustainable growth. “Let’s get clear on what you want to create. Then come back to the present and ask: Where am I now? From there, start working on the millimeters.” This mindset not only helps athletes improve on the field but supports mental resilience when challenges arise.

Team DNA and Collaborative Thinking

The conversation also highlights how understanding thinking habits can impact team culture. Using Habit Finder at an organizational level allows coaches and leaders to identify shared mental patterns across groups, leading to more effective communication and teamwork.

Dave shares how a manufacturing company transformed its operations and saved millions by shifting just one common thought pattern within its departments.

Beyond Sports: Identity and Purpose

The episode closes on a powerful note as Danny opens up about transitioning out of football. The struggle to redefine his identity after sports is something many athletes face, and Blanchard's framework provides clarity and direction during that kind of shift. “To retire would be to die,” Dave says. “I want to live, I want to grow.”

Ready to Change Your Thinking?

As a bonus, Dave is offering free access to the Habit Finder and Health Habit assessments. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or simply someone looking to improve your mindset, this episode delivers powerful tools to help you grow.

Want to start your own habit journey?

Take the free Habit Finder assessment!