Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of athletes who define perseverance,purpose, and personal growth.

Today, I’m fired up to welcome a phenomenal guest whose journey takes us from the soccer fields of New Jersey to the front lines of athlete mental health and performance.

Mia Gardner-Zambarano grew up in New Jersey,where her love for sports and competition took root at an early age. A standout soccer player at West Essex High School,Mia went on to compete at the Division I level at Sacred Heart University, where she majored in psychology andbuilt lifelong friendships and memories as part of the Pioneer family.

Her college experience, however, wasn’t without adversity. A devastating knee injury tested her resilience and mental toughness, ultimately shaping the direction of her life beyond the game. That recovery journey sparked an interest in how the mind and body work together, and how athletes can use both to reach peak performance.

After earning her master’s degree from Boston University, Mia became a licensed clinical social worker,specializing in mental health and performance for elite athletes. She’s now the founder of Geared Up, an innovative online mental health and performance training platform designed specifically for college athletes. Through Geared Up, Mia is helping redefine what it means to be “mentally tough,” empowering athletes to understand, assess, and strengthen their mental game the same way they train their physical one.

In this episode, we dive into Mia’s journey, fromher playing days and her injury comeback, to her passion for helping athletes develop confidence, balance, and mental clarity both on and off the field.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with a true game-changer in the world of athlete wellness, MiaGardner-Zambarano.