“Most pilots don’t lack knowledge. They lack access to that knowledge under pressure.” In this episode of Behind the Prop, Bobby Doss and Wally Mulhearn sit down with Tammy Barlette, a former U.S. Air Force A-10 pilot, Weapons School graduate, and mental performance coach who now helps pilots perform at their best under pressure. Tammy shares how mental performance training—commonly used by elite athletes—can dramatically improve aviation performance by helping pilots access the knowledge and skills they already possess. Many pilots struggle not because they lack knowledge, but because stress and anxiety prevent them from accessing that knowledge when it matters most. Drawing from her experience as a fighter pilot and instructor, Tammy explains why aviation attracts perfectionists and how that mindset can sometimes work against pilots in training. She emphasizes the importance of process-based goals, staying present in the moment, and using mistakes as learning tools rather than defining moments. The conversation dives into practical strategies pilots can apply immediately, including simple techniques for resetting focus during flight, building confidence through small wins, and reframing the internal dialogue that shapes performance. Whether you're a student pilot preparing for your first checkride or a seasoned aviator looking to sharpen your edge, Tammy’s insights offer powerful tools to help pilots think more clearly, perform more consistently, and build the mental resilience needed for aviation.

Behind the Prop

[email protected] (Bobby Doss, Wally Mulhearn, Tammy Barlette)

E189 - Tammy Barlette, Crosscheck Mental Performance Training

MAR 9, 202642 MIN
Behind the Prop

E189 - Tammy Barlette, Crosscheck Mental Performance Training

MAR 9, 202642 MIN

Description

Tammy Barlette Former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and instructor with experience flying the A-10 Warthog, MQ-1 Predator, and MQ-9 Reaper. She now teaches mental performance training specifically designed for aviators through her company Crosscheck Mental Performance. Tammy combines lessons from aviation, elite athletics, and performance psychology to help pilots improve focus, confidence, and decision-making under pressure.   Key Topics Discussed Mental Performance Training for Pilots Why many pilots struggle with performance rather than knowledge How stress affects access to information in high-pressure situations Techniques used by elite athletes that translate directly to aviation   Perfectionism in Aviation Why perfectionism can hurt pilot performance Learning to use mistakes as feedback instead of defining moments   Confidence and Internal Dialogue How self-talk influences pilot performance Why confidence must be intentionally built—not assumed   Process vs Outcome Goals Why focusing only on checkrides or certificates can hurt motivation Using process-based goals to build long-term success in flight training   Practical Techniques The “What now?” reset technique to stay present in flight Building confidence through small wins and self-recognition Staying mentally focused during checkride preparation   Resources Tammy Shared Crosscheck Online Communityhttps://www.skool.com/crosscheck/ Crosscheck Mental Performance Websitehttps://www.crosscheckmentalperformance.com/ Tammy Barlette on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tammybarlette/