In this powerful episode of Skull Sessions, Andy Riise and Nate Last sit down with Patty de Vries (“Oma”), founder of Living Well USA, to explore what it really means to master your mindset and create a life aligned with who you truly are.

Patty shares her deeply personal journey—from high-level athletics at Stanford to transformational breakthroughs in mindfulness, neuroplasticity, and self-awareness. Together, they unpack one of the biggest barriers to performance and fulfillment: judgment—of ourselves and others.

This conversation goes beyond theory. You’ll learn practical tools to move from being “below the line” (stuck in fear, frustration, and negativity) to “above the line” (calm, creative, and aligned).

Key Takeaways:

• Why judgment is the hidden performance killer in life and sport

• How your brain creates “doom loops” vs. positive momentum (the flywheel)

• The difference between accepting emotions vs. getting stuck in them

• A simple framework to clarify what you truly want: Want / Don’t Want / Nice-to-Have

• How gratitude and awareness can instantly reset your state

• Why authenticity—not external success—drives fulfillment and performance

The role of mindfulness and neuroplasticity in becoming your best self

Patty also shares powerful stories from her athletic career, her work with organizations like Stanford Medicine, and the philosophy behind Living Well USA—a growing movement focused on helping people reconnect with themselves and live with intention.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from who you really are, this episode gives you a roadmap to get out of your own way and start living fully aligned.

Listen now and learn the art and science of kickin' ass between the ears.

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