Pro Bowler & Therapist? How Brianna Andrew Masters Both Worlds!

If you think bowling is all about throwing strikes and hitting pins, think again. In our latest episode of the Peace & Performance Over Everything Podcast, I sat down with Brianna Andrew—a professional bowler, Team USA athlete, and licensed mental health counselor. Her insights into mental performance, recovery, and emotional wellness are gold for any athlete striving for both success and sustainability in sport.

Whether you're chasing a scholarship, competing at the highest level, or simply trying to quiet your nerves on game day, this conversation is packed with takeaways you can use right now.

1. Mental Fitness Isn’t Optional—It’s Foundational

Brianna said it best: “Bowling is 90% mental, 10% physical.” And while most athletes nod along, few are training their mind with the same intentionality they give their body. Brianna’s story reminds us that mental fitness—just like physical conditioning—requires regular reps. Her advice to “work on your mental game probably three times as much as your physical game” isn’t just a suggestion. It’s a challenge.

This isn’t just sport psychology for women or elite performers—it’s for anyone who’s ever let self-doubt hijack their performance. Mental strength isn’t something you’re born with. It’s a skill you build.

2. Great Athletes Don’t Operate on Autopilot

One of the standout moments in our conversation was Brianna’s reflection on the phrase: “Think about your thinking.” In her words, it’s not just about reacting to your environment—it’s about learning to respond. She uses mental cues and breathing strategies to reset between shots during long competition days, staying present even when the pressure mounts.

This level of intentional self-awareness is what separates good athletes from great ones. It’s the difference between panicking after a bad shot and calmly adjusting your strategy. Developing that kind of awareness is a cornerstone of mental performance training.

3. Rest Is Part of the Work

Brianna’s perspective on rest and recovery was refreshingly real. As athletes, it’s easy to glorify the grind—more reps, longer practices, extra lifts. But what happens when your mind starts breaking down?

Rest isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom. For Brianna, recovery looks like stretching, mobility work, walks with friends, and reconnecting with people who bring her joy. It’s also about listening to your body and knowing when it’s time to pause.

She reminded us that “filling up your cup” isn’t just about recovery—it’s about resilience. This is mental fitness at its core.

4. Gratitude Isn’t Just a Buzzword—It’s a Recovery Tool

This was one of my favorite moments from the episode. When we talked about navigating pressure and performance anxiety, Brianna shared that gratitude is one of her most powerful tools. Not in a vague, inspirational quote kind of way—but in a grounded, intentional practice that brings her back to center.

When she reminds herself “I get to do this,” it helps reframe the moment. It doesn’t erase the pressure, but it transforms it. From something threatening… to something meaningful.

That mindset shift is something every athlete can benefit from—especially when the weight of expectation feels heavy.

5. Building a Support Team (Even in Individual Sports)

Bowling may be an individual sport, but Brianna emphasized how essential it is to build a team of supporters. Coaches, family, friends, sponsors—these are the people who speak into your life when you're struggling and celebrate with you when you succeed.

Having people who “see the value in you as a person and an athlete” creates a buffer against burnout. For female athletes especially, who often face added pressures and visibility gaps, cultivating a support system is a critical piece of long-term success.

Why This Conversation Matters

This episode was a masterclass in integrating performance psychology and emotional wellness. Brianna isn’t just a bowler with impressive stats—she’s an athlete who has done the inner work. And that’s what allows her to compete with clarity, confidence, and joy.

Whether you're a coach, a parent of a young athlete, or an athlete yourself, this is your reminder: it’s not just about being tougher. It’s about being smarter, more intentional, and more connected to what drives you.

If you’ve ever wondered how to build a mind stronger than any muscle, this conversation is a great place to start.

Want More Conversations Like This?

Listen to the full episode of the Peace & Performance Over Everything Podcast featuring Brianna Andrew right here. If you found this helpful, be sure to follow the show—we’re just getting started.

You’ll hear from world-class athletes, experts in sport psychology, and everyday performers who are doing the work to build champion mindsets and mentally fit lives.

Peace,

JJ