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Success at the highest level of sport is rarely just about physical ability—it is about mental resilience, discipline, and the ability to perform under pressure. In this episode of the Next Level Income Podcast, we sit down with Brent Bookwalter, a former Olympian and 16-year veteran of professional cycling, to uncover the powerful mental frameworks that fueled his elite career and now help others elevate their performance.
Brent’s journey is one of relentless perseverance. As a key domestique on Cadel Evans’ 2011 Tour de France-winning team, Brent understood that success is often built behind the scenes—through teamwork, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to a larger goal. This experience shaped his perspective on leadership and collaboration, emphasizing that true excellence comes from lifting others while staying grounded in your role.
One of the most compelling insights Brent shares is the importance of mental endurance. In professional cycling, athletes face grueling conditions—hours of racing, unpredictable terrain, and constant physical strain. However, Brent highlights that the biggest battles are often internal. Managing self-doubt, staying focused during adversity, and maintaining confidence over long periods are what separate top performers from the rest.
After retiring in 2021, Brent transitioned into a new phase of his career, combining his real-world experience with academic expertise. With a Master’s degree in Sport Psychology, he now works as a mental performance coach, helping athletes, entrepreneurs, and leaders develop the habits and mindset required to succeed. His approach is rooted in practical strategies—building consistency, creating routines, and developing awareness around thoughts and behaviors.
A key takeaway from this episode is the concept of “controlling the controllables.” Brent explains that high performers often waste energy worrying about factors outside their influence. Instead, focusing on daily habits, preparation, and effort creates a strong foundation for success. This mindset not only improves performance but also reduces stress and enhances overall well-being.
Another powerful lesson Brent discusses is the role of identity. Many individuals tie their self-worth to outcomes, whether it’s winning a race, closing a deal, or achieving a milestone. Brent encourages listeners to shift their identity toward the process—valuing effort, growth, and resilience over results. This shift creates a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.
Throughout the conversation, Brent also emphasizes the importance of recovery—both physically and mentally. In a world that glorifies constant hustle, he reminds us that rest, reflection, and balance are essential components of peak performance. Without them, even the most driven individuals risk burnout.
Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or professional striving for your next breakthrough, Brent Bookwalter’s insights offer a practical blueprint for leveling up your mental game. His journey from elite cycling to mental performance coaching is a testament to the power of discipline, adaptability, and lifelong learning.
Tune in to this episode to discover how you can apply the lessons of a professional cyclist to your own life—and unlock your true potential.
Resources & Links
https://www.brentbookwalter.com/
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Christopher Larsen is the founder and Managing Partner of Next-Level Income. Since “retiring” after 18 years in the medical device industry he dedicates his time to helping others become financially independent through education and investment opportunities. Chris has been investing in and managing real estate for over 20 years.
While completing his degree in Biomechanical Engineering and M.B.A. in Finance at Virginia Tech, he bought his first single-family rental at age 21. Chris expanded into development, private-lending, buying distressed debt as well as commercial office, and ultimately syndicating multifamily properties. He began syndicating deals in 2016 and has been actively involved in over $500M of real estate acquisitions.
In addition to real estate, Chris has invested in equities, oil & gas, and small business lending, as well as being active in Venture South, one of the nation’s Top 10 Angel Investing groups. Chris lives with his wife and two boys (and Viszla, Lucy!) in Asheville, NC where he loves spending time with them in the outdoors and enjoying the food and culture that the region has to offer.
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