Episode #168 - Alex Heishman

Written By Katherine Zempolich

In this episode of The Mental Matchup, we’re joined by Alex Heishman, a former DIII women’s lacrosse player, campus liaison for Morgan’s Message, and now a licensed social worker. Alex opens up about her 4+ year journey with Morgan’s Message and her own experience navigating mental health challenges as a student-athlete.

From battling self-criticism and panic attacks to a difficult coaching relationship that made her fall out of love with lacrosse, Alex shares her path to rediscovering joy, purpose, and identity — both on and off the field. Now working as a middle school counselor, she reflects on the importance of vulnerability, mental health advocacy, and the ongoing impact of Morgan’s Message.

Topics covered:

  • Mental health and sport performance

  • Navigating negative coaching relationships

  • Athlete burnout & recovery

  • Finding identity post-graduation

  • The power of sharing your story

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Katherine Zempolich
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Episode #167 - Catie-Reagan King, The CKG Foundation