E189 - Tammy Barlette, Crosscheck Mental Performance Training
09 March 2026

E189 - Tammy Barlette, Crosscheck Mental Performance Training

Behind the Prop

About

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 Community
https://www.skool.com/crosscheck/


Crosscheck Mental Performance Website
https://www.crosscheckmentalperformance.com/


Tammy Barlette on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammybarlette/