In this inspiring episode of The Pure Playbook, we sit down with professional MLS defender Joakim Nilsson to explore the mindset, sacrifices, and resilience it takes to reach the highest level of soccer. From his early days growing up in Sweden to competing on the world stage, Joakim shares powerful lessons for student-athletes and parents about chasing big dreams, overcoming setbacks, and staying grounded along the way.
We dive into how mindset shaped his journey, the strategies he uses to stay focused, and how he’s navigated injuries, pressure, and life abroad. Joakim also opens up about his recovery routines, nutrition habits, and the crucial balance of the three pillars — mental, physical, and relationships — that fuel long-term success.
Plus, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how The Pure Athlete program has impacted his career, his advice for young athletes, and a fun rapid-fire round revealing his personality off the field.
🎧 Whether you’re an aspiring athlete, a parent supporting one, or simply someone who loves stories of grit and growth, this episode is packed with wisdom and motivation you won’t want to miss.
In this episode of the Pure Playbook, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the importance of chiropractic care for athletes, particularly those involved in racing. They share insights from their experiences at the IMCA Super Nationals, highlighting the physical demands of racing and the common injuries faced by drivers. The conversation delves into the significance of spinal structure and its impact on overall health, as well as the role of chiropractic care in enhancing performance and preventing injuries. They emphasize the need for education and awareness about the benefits of chiropractic care, not just for athletes but for everyone.
In this episode, Dr Dustin Bosson & Dr. Nate Merhaut delve into the essential aspects of training student athletes, emphasizing the importance of foundational techniques, proper movement patterns, and the role of nutrition and recovery. Discover how chiropractic care plays a pivotal role in enhancing athletic performance and recovery, while also supporting the neurological components that influence movement. Our speakers discuss the significance of structure in athletic performance, the need for qualified trainers, and the importance of creating a safe training environment for young athletes. Join us as we explore expert insights and real-life success stories that showcase the transformative impact of chiropractic care in the world of sports. Tune in to learn how these practices can elevate your training regimen and overall well-being.
In this episode of the Pure Playbook Podcast, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss common concerns parents have regarding sports injuries in student athletes. They explore the importance of multi-sport participation, the signs of overtraining, and how to manage pain effectively. The conversation also emphasizes injury prevention strategies and the role of supplements in athletic performance, highlighting the need for proper evaluation and guidance in youth sports.
In this episode of The PURE Athlete podcast, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the transition back to school for student athletes. They emphasize the importance of mindset, building relationships, and navigating the challenges of school and sports. The conversation covers how to maintain a positive attitude, the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive peers, and the role of mentorship from upperclassmen and teachers. They also touch on the importance of self-care and making new friends, especially for freshmen entering high school. The episode concludes with practical tips for students to embrace their school experience and foster connections with others.
In this episode of The Pure Playbook, Dr. Dustin Bosson, Dr. Nate Merhaut, & Sam Hobson delve into the complexities of modern healthcare for athletes, discussing the challenges practitioners face, the signs of burnout in athletes, and the importance of proactive health care. They emphasize the need for open communication, understanding the mental aspects of health, and the balance between performance and longevity in training. Personal experiences shape their practice philosophy, highlighting the significance of serving others and maintaining a holistic approach to athlete care.
In this episode, Dr. Dustin Bosson, Dr. Nate Merhaut and THE Dance Chiropractor, Dr. Dylan Tarrant, discuss the intersection of dance, health, and injury prevention with decorated dancer, choreographer, & coach Erika Bosson. They explore the importance of understanding biomechanics, the mental health aspects of being a dancer, and the need for personalized care in the dance community. Dr. Tarrant shares his journey from dancer to chiropractor, emphasizing the holistic approach to treating dancers and the significance of addressing both physical and mental health. The conversation also highlights common injuries in dancers and the importance of trust in healthcare providers.CONNECT WITH Dr. Dylan! follow him on instagram: @dr.dylan_dc
In this episode of the Pure Playbook, Dr. Dustin Bosson, Dr. Nate Merhaut, and special guest Sam Hobson explore the evolving landscape of nutrition and supplementation for athletes. They delve into the changing nutrient quality of foods and the critical role of tailored supplementation in enhancing performance and preventing injuries. Discover how modern athletes can optimize their health and performance through informed nutritional strategies. Join us to learn how to protect and build student athletes better with the right nutritional choices.
In this episode of The PURE Playbook, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the importance of communication and collaboration in the care of student athletes. They emphasize the need for trust among healthcare providers, athletic trainers, and coaches to ensure the best outcomes for athletes. The conversation covers the roles of different providers, the significance of preventative care, and the necessity of open dialogue to navigate injuries effectively. Through real-life examples and case studies, they highlight how a supportive team can enhance the recovery process and improve athlete performance.
In this episode of the Pure Athlete Podcast, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut welcome Mindy and Matt Mierek, parents of high-performing volleyball player Bailey. They discuss the pressures young athletes face, the importance of injury prevention, and the Myrick family's journey to finding the right support for Bailey's athletic goals. The conversation covers Bailey's initial evaluation at the Pure Athlete, the emotional impact of her injury, and the collaborative approach to her recovery, emphasizing the significance of mental health in sports. In this conversation, The PURE Athlete discusses innovative approaches to injury recovery, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience, teamwork, and parental support. The dialogue highlights how visualization techniques and proactive communication can significantly enhance an athlete's recovery process. The speakers reflect on the growth of the athlete, Bailey, and the supportive environment created by her team, which fosters confidence and a positive mindset. The conversation concludes with a focus on the importance of trust in the recovery process and the collective effort of the team in achieving success.
In this episode of the Pure Playbook podcast, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss innovative strategies for returning athletes to play faster after injuries. They emphasize the importance of ethical and clinical considerations in the recovery process, highlighting the need for proper diagnosis and a multi-faceted approach to rehabilitation. The conversation covers various injury types, recovery timelines, and the significance of addressing both the physical and mental aspects of athlete health. In this conversation, The PURE Athlete discusses the multifaceted nature of athletic injuries, emphasizing the importance of understanding structural issues rather than just muscle-related problems. They highlight the need for comprehensive evaluations to uncover underlying conditions that may contribute to injuries, such as scoliosis. The discussion also covers the significance of preventative care and the necessity of ongoing treatment beyond just addressing immediate injuries to ensure long-term athlete health and performance.
In this episode of The Pure Playbook, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the importance of dynamic warm-ups for student athletes. They explore the differences between dynamic and static stretching, the science behind effective warm-up routines, and common myths surrounding pre-game rituals. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper nutrition and preparation leading up to competitions, as well as the potential dangers of relying on medications like ibuprofen before games. The episode concludes with a call to action for athletes to take their warm-up routines seriously to enhance performance and prevent injuries.
In this episode, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the complexities of ankle injuries, particularly focusing on ankle sprains, which account for 40% of all sports injuries among student athletes. They explore the mechanisms of these injuries, the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment, and the long-term consequences of untreated injuries. The conversation emphasizes the need for injury prevention strategies and the role of healthcare professionals in managing these injuries effectively. This conversation delves into the complexities of ankle injuries, their recurrence rates, and the critical importance of preventative care in sports. The speaker emphasizes that many athletes do not seek professional treatment for their injuries, leading to a higher risk of re-injury and other complications. The discussion also addresses common misconceptions about stretching as a method of injury prevention and highlights the necessity of comprehensive diagnostic imaging to ensure proper treatment. Ultimately, the conversation advocates for the implementation of effective injury prevention protocols to enhance athlete health and performance.
In this episode, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the critical issue of ACL injuries, particularly focusing on the alarming statistic that over 75% of these injuries are non-contact. They explore the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind these injuries, including the role of fatigue, dual tasking, and hormonal influences, especially in female athletes. The conversation emphasizes the need for comprehensive evaluations that consider structural and neurological factors to effectively prevent injuries. The doctors advocate for proactive measures and education for athletes and parents to enhance injury prevention strategies.
In this episode of The Pure Playbook, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the purpose and passion behind The PURE Athlete™, focusing on the importance of injury prevention, community trust, and evidence-based practices in athlete care. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to health that includes nutrition, lifestyle, and collaboration with other healthcare providers. The conversation highlights the significance of staying updated with healthcare protocols and the value of preventative care for student athletes.
In this episode of The Pure Playbook Podcast, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the journey of a young athlete named Payton, who faced significant injuries but successfully returned to her sport. They explore the importance of a comprehensive approach to athlete care, including physical, mental, and emotional support, and highlight the unique protocols used at The Pure Athlete to ensure athletes remain on the field while recovering from injuries. The conversation emphasizes the need for individualized care and the positive outcomes that can result from a methodical treatment plan.
In this episode of The Pure Playbook, Dr. Dustin Bosson and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the mental pillar of the pure athlete, emphasizing the importance of relationships, community, and trust in the development of student athletes. They explore how creating a supportive environment fosters growth and collaboration among athletes, parents, and healthcare providers. The conversation highlights the need for a movement that builds a community for student athletes and their families, ensuring they have access to trusted resources and support.
In this conversation, Dr. Dustin Bosson, Dr. Nate Merhaut and DJ McMoil discuss the importance of mental performance coaching for athletes, particularly focusing on youth and college athletes. They explore the partnership between ACG Mental Performance and Rush Soccer, emphasizing the need for mental health resources in sports. DJ shares insights into ACG's coaching process, the significance of mental health, and the common challenge of performance anxiety faced by athletes. They define performance anxiety, discuss its causes, and share techniques to manage it, including breath work and self-awareness strategies. In this conversation, The PURE Athlete and DJ McMoil delve into the significance of mental performance in sports, emphasizing techniques such as breathwork, reframing anxiety, and establishing routines. They discuss the importance of perspective and identity in sports, the necessity of consistency in mental skills training, and how these lessons extend beyond athletics into life after sports. The dialogue highlights the dynamic nature of mental performance and the need for athletes to embrace the process of skill-building for long-term success.
In this episode of The Pure Playbook, Dr. Dustin Boston and Dr. Nate Merhaut discuss the critical importance of mental recovery for student athletes. They explore how mental recovery is often overlooked in favor of physical training and competition, leading to burnout and decreased performance. The conversation emphasizes the need for athletes, parents, and coaches to recognize the signs of mental fatigue and to prioritize mental recovery techniques such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, and journaling. The hosts also share personal development resources and encourage a proactive approach to mental health in sports.
In this episode of the Pure Athlete Podcast, Dr. Dustin Boston and Dr. Nate Merhaut welcome Kody Welker, a personal trainer and coach, to discuss the importance of building confidence in student athletes. They explore the mental aspects of sports, the significance of positive reinforcement, and how to overcome negative self-talk. The conversation emphasizes collaboration among professionals in the field and the need for athletes to develop a healthy mindset towards failure and success. In this conversation, The PURE Athlete discusses the importance of being present, the role of fathers in instilling confidence in their children, and the significance of humility and vulnerability in personal growth. The discussion also emphasizes the need for community support and intentionality in serving student athletes, highlighting how these elements contribute to building unshakable confidence.