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What questions are tugging at you right now, and how might exploring the answers help you live and perform with more clarity?We're back with a special edition of the Finding Mastery podcast: another Ask Me Anything episode, built from the deep, thoughtful questions submitted by our community.In this AMA, Michael Gervais is joined by Jeff Byers, former NFL player, Co-Founder and CEO of Momentous, and longtime friend of Finding Mastery. Jeff has built something very special with Momentous, a supplement company grounded in transparency and integrity in an industry that can be full of noise and misinformation. He often says trust is earned, and he takes that responsibility personally.His relentless approach to mastery, both for himself and for the team he's building at Momentous—makes him an ideal co-host to help Mike wrestle with questions across a wide range of topics… how to perform with more clarity, how to work skillfully with strong emotions, and how to build a life that feels aligned with what matters most.Key insights we explored:Shift from perfection to purpose… why “the constant pursuit of perfectionism” is a setup for burnout, and how purpose changes the whole frame.Downregulating the nervous system… practical ways to move from sympathetic “on” to parasympathetic “rest and digest,” including breath, gaze, laughter, touch, nature, and intentionally induced recovery.Anger and emotional skill… how to feel anger without outward harm or inward collapse, and why the goal is to build the capacity to be “unbothered.”Loneliness and connection… why loneliness can surge when you leave familiar people and routines, and how “time-boxing” the feeling can help you train it instead of letting it bleed through the entire day.Reflection when life is full… how to build a sustainable rhythm for inner work, from 90-second practices to scheduled retreats, and why scheduling and celebration matter. If you find yourself wrestling with perfectionism, emotional spillover, loneliness, or a life that won't slow down, this AMA is a strong reminder that mastery is trained—one choice, one practice, one reset at a time.__________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dr. Jonathan Haywood Jenkins, Psy.D., CMPC, has spent more than a decade supporting athlete mental health and performance at Massachusetts General Brigham Hospital. As a member of the Harvard Medical School teaching community, he serves as Team Clinical and Performance Psychologist for the New England Patriots, Behavioral Sport Psychologist for the Boston Red Sox, and Sport Psychology Consultant for the Para Rowing Foundation. He is also the co-author of Mentality Wins: The Athlete's Playbook for Thriving in Sport and Life, currently the #1 New Release in Sport Psychology, a holistic guide to improving performance while protecting mental health. In this episode, Dr. Jenkins shares the Peachtree Approach and the deeper principles that drive sustainable success. Drawing from his own early speech and language challenges, his experience as a collegiate athlete, and his work with elite performers, he explains how adversity can become an advantage, how relationships fuel resilience, and why appreciating the good days prepares us for the hard ones. This conversation goes beyond sport. It's about leadership, perspective, and building a mentality that lasts. @dr.jonathanjenkins, @Unlimitedresilence, @mentalitywinsbook
In this episode, Eric reviews a study of professional pitchers that saw a link between cervical spine range of motion and shoulder and elbow injuries in overhead throwing athletes. He speaks to how this loss of motion occurs, and more importantly, how it relates to overall movement dysfunction and the pitching injuries we commonly see.Support Our Sponsor: AG1
What if the hardest part of money isn't earning it, but knowing how to use it well?Morgan Housel, bestselling author of The Psychology of Money, returns to Finding Mastery to explore the core idea behind his newest bestselling book, The Art of Spending Money. In this next chapter of his work, Morgan shifts the conversation away from accumulation and toward a deeper question: after the basics are covered, what role should money actually play in your life?While most financial advice focuses on how to earn and invest, Morgan argues that the more consequential skill is learning how to spend in alignment with your values. The challenge isn't simply getting rich. It's defining “enough.”In this conversation, Dr. Michael Gervais and Morgan unpack why money decisions are rarely logical and almost always emotional… shaped by identity, comparison, uncertainty, and the quiet pull of status. They explore the psychological difference between getting rich and staying rich, why uncertainty is a permanent feature of life, and how financial independence — not prestige — may be the real prize.At the center of it all is a powerful reframe:Money is a tool, not a scorecard.In this episode, we explore:Why money anxiety persists even when you're “doing fine” on paperHow comparison and status influence spending decisionsWhat it means to use money in service of “a good life”Why defining “enough” matters more than earning “more”How to spend with more intention and fewer regretsIf you're serious about building a life that feels aligned — not just impressive — this conversation offers a grounded, psychologically rigorous lens on how to think about money differently.__________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Geir Jordet is a Professor of Sport Psychology in Oslo and is the author of Pressure: Lessons from the Psychology of the Penalty Shoot Out.
Dr. Carly Hunt is a Sport and Counseling Psychologist, Scientist and Educator and Author who counsels athletes, adolescents and adults on improving performance, well-being and health. Carly is a former NCAA Division I golfer (Georgetown University & University of Maryland) and a certified yoga instructor and she joins #OntheMark to help you reach your full potential in golf and in life. Dr. Hunt shares 5 Mental Training Strategies to Improve your performance: The 3 C's to Manage Negative Thoughts S.T.O.P for Mindfulness Positive Emotion and Fun Living your Values, and Imagery and Visualization She also illustrates how pain is BioPsychoSocial and how you can beat it with the same 5 Mental Training Strategies. Watch this podcast on YouTube - search and subscribe to Mark Immelman.
In this episode, Eric highlights the need for athletes to recognize that every rep can contribute to both short- and long-term outcomes - but the attention to detail is what determines whether that impact is positive or negative.Support Our Sponsor: 1stPhorm
Why do some endurance athletes feel unexpectedly low after a big race? In this episode of Find Your Edge, Coach Chris Newport interviews Dr. Carlie Frost-Poirier about her new dissertation on post-race blues in long-course triathletes.You'll learn:What post-race blues actually areWhy Ironman athletes are under-studiedThe surprising #1 predictor (hint: life balance)Obsessive vs harmonious passionPractical strategies for athletes and coachesIf you race long course — or coach those who do — this conversation is essential.Check out the blog here: https://www.theenduranceedge.com/post-race-blues-after-ironmanTrain with structure, community, and purpose—without paying for full coaching. The Endurance Edge Club gives you professionally built training plans in Training Peaks Premium, access to virtual workouts, team socials, and athlete-led sessions. Join monthly or save nearly 50% with an annual plan and get the tools you need to stop guessing and start making real progress. Learn more and join now at TheEnduranceEdge.com/club Support the show
Dr. Bob Winters—The Confidence Doctor—is back for round two, and this conversation is a straight-up masterclass in what actually creates elite confidence. Because here's the truth: most golfers (and high performers) don't have an information problem. They have a compliance problem. We talk about why "positive thinking" is useless without "positive doing," how Dr. Bob uses a deceptively simple question—"Are you good?"—to expose blind spots, and why real confidence is earned through proof, not hype. We also go to a deeper place: the cost of becoming elite. The strain. The sacrifice. The quiet moments where you wonder if it's worth it. And why, for the people who truly want it, the hard is what makes it great. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "positive doing" is the missing link between ambition and results The simple question that exposes confidence… or hidden self-doubt How to stop "knowing what to do" but still not doing it What elite performers do differently when setbacks knock them down The real cost of elite confidence—and why it's worth paying How to use selective attention to train your focus (and your results) Why compliance is the separator between winners and wannabes Get your pencils ready and start listening. P.S. Check out episode 76 for my past conversation with Dr. Bob. P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Apply for 1-1 Mindset and Performance Coaching: Click here to apply to work with me. More About Dr. Bob Winters Dr. Robert K. Winters, affectionately known as "Dr. Bob," is an internationally renowned sports psychologist, author, and professional speaker with over 45 years of experience in the field of sports performance. He holds a Ph.D. in Sport Psychology from the University of Virginia, along with Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ball State University. Dr. Winters has dedicated his career to understanding the psychological components of athletic excellence, focusing on confidence development and mental toughness. He has worked with a diverse range of athletes, including PGA and LPGA Tour professionals, collegiate teams, and junior athletes Purchase "The 10 Commandments of Mindpower Golf" Connect on Instagram - @dr.bobwinters Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course. Instagram: @thepaulsalter Key Takeaways: Positive thinking without positive doing is emotional entertainment, not transformation. Confidence grows fastest when you collect proof—small wins, repeated, over time. "Are you good?" is a diagnostic question that reveals belief, hesitation, and identity. Most people aren't stuck because they don't know what to do—they're stuck because they won't do it consistently. Setbacks are training reps for resilience: reset, reframe, re-engage—especially in golf. Elite confidence has a cost: sacrifice, discomfort, doubt, and the willingness to keep going anyway. Compliance is the hard truth—if you won't do what you said you'd do, you're not committed, you just like the idea. Key Quotes: "I turn the improbable into possible." "We talk about positive thinking… but you have to have positive doing." "It takes a long time to learn how to play like yourself." "You do it until you become it." "We've got to get through the suck before we get through the success." "It's the hard that makes it great." "Are you doing what you said you wanted to do?" Time Stamps: 00:00: Introduction to Dr. Bob's Work 02:33: Bridging Positive Thinking and Doing 05:42: Peeling Back the Layers of Self-Discovery 08:34: The Cost of Elite Confidence 11:21: The Importance of Compliance and Accountability 14:19: The Role of Resilience in Success 17:05: The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth 19:38: The Power of Self-Reflection 22:52: The Importance of Authenticity 25:33: The Balance of Selfishness and Self-Fullness 28:18: The Hard Work Behind Success 30:53: The Role of Truth in Personal Growth 33:39: The Mindset of Winners 36:45: Final Thoughts and Resources
Why are young people today reporting the highest levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and despair in modern history?Dr. Angela Duckworth is a professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania and one of the world's leading voices on grit, self-control, and the science of thriving. In this conversation with Dr. Michael Gervais, Angela reflects on how her thinking about grit has evolved, where it's often misunderstood, and why perseverance without purpose can become harmful instead of helpful.They explore what excellence really looks like behind the scenes. Not the highlight reel, but the long stretch of deliberate practice and repeated effort that most people never see. Angela also reframes passion as something that develops over time, and offers a practical lens for staying committed when enthusiasm fades and outcomes take longer than expected.The conversation expands beyond performance into family life and parenting. They examine the cultural forces shaping today's youth: the rise of social media, the erosion of in-person connection, the displacement of nature, and the unintended consequences of modern parenting. Angela shares what the data actually shows about the mental health crisis, and what we as parents, educators, and leaders can do about it. In this episode, you'll learn:What grit really is, and what it isn't Why excellence comes from high-quality practice over timeHow passion develops slowly, and why it can be treated like a skillHow to stay committed when motivation fadesWhy environments shape kids more than pressure doesWhy young people's happiness has sharply declined since 2010What the research says about anxiety, depression, and loneliness in Gen ZHow screens and social disconnection may be reshaping well-beingPractical ways parents can create environments where kids can truly thrive________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XDavid Blanchflower Article: Blanchflower DG, Bryson A, Xu X (2025) “The declining mental health of the young and the global disappearance of the unhappiness hump shape in age.” https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0327858See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
n this episode of the United with BigTeam at Indiana University podcast, host Eli Friedman, a 5th Year PhD Candidate, engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Troy Moles, Director of Counseling and Sports Psychology at Indiana University Athletics. They explore Dr. Moles' journey to becoming a sports psychologist, and the role of cognitive behavioral therapy in facilitating change and the power of humility as a clinician. The discussion also touches on the cultural shifts within Indiana athletics, the significance of assessment in sports psychology, and the myths surrounding the field. Dr. Moles emphasizes the importance of focusing on what is best for the student athlete, highlighting the need for humility and hard work in the profession.
In this episode, Cressey Sports Performance – Florida hitting coach Ronnie Bernick discusses how young hitters can take their foundational swing mechanics to a hitting approach that plays in game scenarios under different circumstances.Support Our Sponsor: AG1
Welcome back to the Hangin' with the AD Podcast. Today's episode is one we've been excited about for a long time, because we're diving into a space that's become a true game-changer at every level of athletics: mental performance.Our guest today is Kellen Lee — a Certified Mental Performance Consultant with a master's degree in Sport Psychology and a PhD in Performance Psychology. Kellen has worked across elite environments, from professional athletics to military and organizational settings, and since January of 2023, he's been serving as a mental skills coach for the Seattle Mariners at the major league level. He's also fluent in Spanish, which adds another layer to the way he connects with athletes and teams.In this conversation, we're talking about what's changed in athletics, why mental skills are no longer a luxury but a necessity, how leaders can build flexibility and trust, and what athletic directors should actually be looking for if they're ready to bring mental performance into their programs. We'll also dig into leadership, human connection, resistance, and even how tools like AI can support growth when used the right way.We like to call this the “back of the baseball card” conversation — so we'll let Kellen fill in the rest. Settle in. There's a lot to learn today.
What if one of the biggest nutrition mistakes we're making isn't what we eat, but what we're missing?Dr. Tim Spector is one of the world's leading researchers on the gut microbiome and how it shapes metabolism, immunity, and even mental wellbeing. In this conversation Tim challenges the conventional nutrition playbook, explaining why calories are a poor guide to health, why most diets backfire, and how ultra‑processed foods can disrupt hunger signals in ways that make “willpower” a losing game.A central theme in this conversation is that many of us are focused on the wrong problem. Tim argues we've been sold a story that we need more protein, when what many people are actually missing is fiber, the essential fuel our gut microbes depend on. From there, the conversation becomes refreshingly actionable, focused on diversity over restriction, whole plants that support microbial health, and why fermented foods can punch far above their weight.This episode is a grounded, science‑backed reframing of nutrition. It's less about rules and more about understanding the system inside you, then feeding it well.__________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Send a textIn episode #173 we talked with pro gravel cyclist Haley Smith about:How her mental health journey intersected with cyclingEvolving nutrition and hydration strategies for different terrains and climatesFuel choices: gels, drink mixes, and handling GI issues on the bikeMental resilience: mantras and race-day strategiesHaley Smith is a professional off-road cyclist and Olympian from Canada. Her biggest accomplishments on the bike include an Elite Mountain Bike World Cup podium, a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games, multiple national championship titles, and winning the inaugural Life Time Grand Prix. Off the bike, she is very vocal about mental health and issues associated with RED-S. Haley hold a MSc in Sport Psychology from Queen's University, and is currently a PhD student in the same discipline. Please note that this podcast is created strictly for educational purposes and should never be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.Follow Haley: IG: www.instagram.com/haleyhuntersmithWeb: https://www.haleyhuntersmith.com/Mentioned:First Endurance Sour Watermelon: https://amzn.to/4aag1hlFirst Endurance Liquid Shots: https://amzn.to/3Zt233SJoin Nutritional Revolution's The Feed Club to get $20 off with an additional $20 Feed credit drop every 90 days.: https://thefeed.com/teams/nutritional-revolution23andMe: https://amzn.to/3NZQoanBob's Red Mill GF Pancake Mix: https://amzn.to/4rkD9zuAnnie's GF Mac and Cheese: https://amzn.to/4akPL2nQueen Street Bakery: https://amzn.to/4aI8juMTo get your labs tested, email amanda.p@nutritional-revolution.comMORE NR Save 10% on our website with code NEWPOD10 Apply to work with us, click here: https://nutritional-revolution.com/ Interested in having your biomarkers or nutrigenomics checked? Email us at nutritionalrev@gmail.com Follow us @nutritionalrevolution Save 20% on supplements at our trusted online source: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/kchannell Join Nutritional Revolution's The Feed Club to get $20 off with an additional $20 Feed credit drop every 90 days.: https://thefeed.com/teams/nutritional-revolution If you're interested in sponsoring Nutritional Revolution Podcast, shoot us an email at nutritionalrev@gmail.com.
Data on an NFL sideline is immediate. Decisions are filtered through fear, experience, and instinct.In this episode of The Game Inside the Games, Dr. Michael Gervais and NFL legend Brandon Marshall explore the tension between analytics and intuition—what happens when information is instant, comprehensive, and impossible to ignore. As technology reshapes decision-making on the NFL sideline, the real question becomes: when the moment arrives, what do you actually trust?Gervais draws on his conversation with Hillary Kerner, CMO of Insight, to examine the human side of AI adoption and why more data doesn't automatically lead to better choices. Using fourth-down decision-making as a case study, the episode reveals how fear of blame, social pressure, and the need to justify decisions often outweigh what the numbers clearly show.This is a grounded look at how people make decisions under scrutiny—and why learning when to trust the data and when to trust yourself may be one of the most important skills in high-pressure environments.Follow Finding Mastery all week as The Game Inside the Games continues to unpack the inner game at global sporting events,, available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
Some moments don't fade. They wait.In this episode of The Game Inside the Games, Dr. Michael Gervais reconnects with Ricardo Lockette as returning to the Super Bowl setting brings old emotions back to the surface. The conversation moves beyond the game itself into grief, loss, and the weight of moments that never fully resolve.Lockette speaks candidly about the Super Bowl heartbreak, the injury that ended his career, and why public grieving can be harder than physical pain. Drawing on their close relationship, Gervais helps him unpack what those experiences still mean—and how resilience is built in the aftermath, not the moment.This is a raw, human conversation about survival, leadership, and learning how to live with moments that don't come with clean endings._____
The huddle is one of the quietest moments in football—and one of the most revealing. Before the play is called, before anyone moves, a team comes together in a space where trust, tone, and connection matter more than words on a whiteboard.In this episode of The Game Inside the Games, Dr. Michael Gervais and All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Marshall go inside the huddle to explore what really happens in the moments before action. Rather than breaking down strategy or schemes, the conversation focuses on culture—how relationships show up under pressure and how teams signal belief, accountability, and presence when it counts.Drawing on lived experience, Gervais and Marshall examine how the huddle becomes a mirror for a team's inner life. Who speaks. Who listens. How people respond when the moment feels heavy. These subtle dynamics often shape what happens next, long before the ball is snapped.This is a grounded, human conversation about connection, leadership, and shared responsibility. And while the stories come from the highest level of football, the insight applies far beyond the field—to meetings, decisions, and the moments we all face just before we act.Follow Finding Mastery all week as The Game Inside the Games continues to unpack the inner game at global sporting events,, available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen._____________This episode is brought to you by CDW and Microsoft. AI is revolutionizing how work gets done. CDW and Microsoft can play a vital role in unlocking the transformative potential of Microsoft Copilot. By leveraging this technology, organizations can achieve significant productivity gains, enhance innovation and streamline workflows.Unlock opportunities to improve both employee and customer experiences when you partner with CDW to deploy your Copilot solutions. Our experts can help maximize the capabilities of Copilot, by building out roadmaps, use cases, and agent experiences that supercharge efficiency for your organization. Aka.ms/CDWMicrosoftCopilotLearn more about CDW's internal Copilot adoption story: CDW rolls out Microsoft 365 Copilot to 10,000 employees, reporting 85% productivity gains | Microsoft Customer StoriesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The noise at the Super Bowl can be overwhelming—tens of thousands of voices colliding into a single roar. But the loudest voice a player hears isn't coming from the stands. It's the one inside their own head.In this episode of The Game Inside the Games, Dr. Michael Gervais and All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Marshall sit down with former NFL MVP Cam Newton to explore one of the most overlooked forces in elite performance: self-talk.Rather than revisiting highlights or headlines, the conversation focuses on the internal dialogue that shapes performance in football's biggest moments. From the intensity of the Super Bowl stage to the quieter moments when doubt creeps in, Cam and Brandon share how the words athletes say to themselves can either steady them—or pull them out of the moment entirely.This is a candid, human conversation about confidence, pressure, imagination, and the unseen work required to stay grounded when everything is on the line. And while the stories come from the highest level of sport, the lessons reach far beyond the field—offering insight into how anyone can use self-talk to access their best when it matters most.Follow Finding Mastery all week as The Game Inside the Games continues to unpack the inner game at global sporting events,, available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen._____________This episode is brought to you by CDW and Microsoft. AI is revolutionizing how work gets done. CDW and Microsoft can play a vital role in unlocking the transformative potential of Microsoft Copilot. By leveraging this technology, organizations can achieve significant productivity gains, enhance innovation and streamline workflows.Unlock opportunities to improve both employee and customer experiences when you partner with CDW to deploy your Copilot solutions. Our experts can help maximize the capabilities of Copilot, by building out roadmaps, use cases, and agent experiences that supercharge efficiency for your organization. Aka.ms/CDWMicrosoftCopilotLearn more about CDW's internal Copilot adoption story: CDW rolls out Microsoft 365 Copilot to 10,000 employees, reporting 85% productivity gains | Microsoft Customer Stories_____________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, Eric interviews Dr. Peter Kriz about the results of a recent study he co-authored: "Do Pitching Restriction Policies Reduce Shoulder and Elbow Injuries in High School Baseball Players?" This discussion examines the history of pitcher usage recommendations over the past decade, and outlines where and how pitch count and frequency guidelines can be used to keep athletes safe.Support Our Sponsor: 1stPhorm
Episode 87 of The Mental Game features Troy Moles, Ph.D., CMPC, HSPP — the Director of Counseling & Sport Psychology for Indiana University Athletics.Why should you listen? Fresh off Indiana's historic football National Championship, Moles is uniquely positioned to tell you what truly lies behind the “championship culture” you often hear discussed in the media.Embedded inside an athletic department, Moles occupies a rare hybrid role. As a licensed psychologist, he oversees mental health services for IU student-athletes. As a certified mental performance consultant, he also helps athletes perform under pressure, build confidence, and navigate the mental demands of high-level competition.A former collegiate track and field student-athlete himself, Moles has spent his career working directly with performers in real, high-stakes environments — from individual athletes battling confidence swings to entire teams navigating pressure, injury, and identity beyond sport. His background includes work at Miami (Ohio) University, Premier Sport Psychology, and the University of North Texas Center for Sport Psychology & Performance Enhancement.On this episode of The Mental Game, Moles…Breaks down the “championship culture” in Indiana's athletic departmentExplains what really happens in the brain during high-pressure moments and why athletes tighten upDives into how revenue sharing, NIL and gambling affect student-athlete mental healthAnd much more…The Mental Game podcast is produced by Sam Brief and music is courtesy of David Brief and Channel J. You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and TuneIn.
The Super Bowl isn't just a physical game — it's a psychological one.In this special Game Inside the Games episode, Dr. Michael Gervais is joined by NFL coach Matt Patricia and former All-Pro Brandon Marshall to unpack one of the most defining moments in Super Bowl history: Malcolm Butler's game-winning interception.This episode explores what it looks like to perform under pressure when the whole world is watching. Subscribe and follow along all week as The Game Inside the Games delivers daily episodes leading up to the Super Bowl — revealing the mindset behind elite performance._________________This episode is powered by: Microsoft Copilot, InsightInsight is redefining integration for the Agentic Era by closing the 65% execution gap currently leaving enterprise AI at a standstill. As a leading Solutions Integrator and top 1% Microsoft partner, we don't just provision licenses; we build the high-performance infrastructure and secure data estates AI requires to thrive. By converging AI-optimized networking with our proprietary Radius™ Microsoft 365 Copilot framework, we solve the infrastructure-AI paradox. From silicon to skills, Insight leverages "Customer Zero" expertise to transform software into a high-yield autonomous enterprise—enabling seamless, secure collaboration between your people and your AI.From Hype to How_________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, Eric answers a listener's question about whether rotational athletes should include anti-rotation and anti-extension core exercises in their programs.Support Our Sponsor: Proteus Motion
What does it mean to live wisely in a loud, distracted, and often reactive world?Ryan Holiday—bestselling author and modern Stoic philosopher—returns to explore how wisdom actually works… not as a theory or a prize of age, but as a daily practice of reflection, humility, and courage.Ryan breaks down why wisdom takes work, how Stoic philosophy applies to modern parenting and leadership, and why the ability to think deeply and act deliberately might be the rarest skill in today's world. This conversation goes beyond ideas — it's about living wisely when life feels anything but quiet.You'll learn:How to treat wisdom as a practice, not an identityWhy wisdom demands both courage and humilityThe key to raising thoughtful kids in a noisy worldHow to find calm and clarity in times of distraction and divisionWhy discernment is the superpower for the age of AI and misinformation__________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dr. Jim Loehr is a world-renowned performance psychologist, whose ground-breaking, science-based energy management training system has achieved worldwide recognition. He has authored 17 books and worked with hundreds of world-class performers from the arenas of sport, business, medicine and law enforcement, including Fortune 100 executives, FBI Hostage Rescue Teams, and military Special Forces. Dr. Loehr has worked with hundreds of elite sports clients including 17 number ones in the world in their respective sports, multiple clients from professional tennis, golf, basketball, football, hockey, boxing, race car driving and the Olympics. Dr. Loehr is also the retired chairman, CEO, and co-founder of the Human Performance Institute (HPI), prior to its acquisition by Johnson & Johnson. HPI is the pioneer in training programs designed to successfully leverage the science of energy management to improve the productivity and engagement levels of elite performers from the world of business, sport, medicine, and law enforcement, for sustained high performance. Dr. Haley Perlus (@drhaleyperlus) is a Performance Psychology expert, speaker, and author specializing in helping business leaders, entrepreneurs, and high achievers apply the mental strategies of elite athletes to reach peak performance. With a Ph.D. in Sport Psychology and certifications in coaching, fitness, and nutrition, she transforms high-stress environments into arenas for success. She is the author of Personal Podium: How to Use Your Mind to Maximize Your Potential, which distills the psychological strategies of world-class performers into practical techniques for business and personal growth. In our conversation today, we touch on many incredible topics including the importance of gratitude, coaching our inner voice, the Hidden Scorecard, and so much more. Jim and Haley share many practical tips and incredible stories from their their work with athletes and teams. Get ready to take some notes and likely listen to this one twice! Connect with Jim: https://www.jim-loehr.com/ Connect with Haley: https://drhaleyperlus.com/ BOOK A SPEAKER: Interested in having John or one of our speaking team come to your school, club or coaching event? We are booking November and December 2025 and Winter/Spring 2026 events, please email us to set up an introductory call John@ChangingTheGameProject.com PUT IN YOUR BULK BOOK ORDERS FOR OUR BESTSELLING BOOKS, AND JOIN 2025 CHAMPIONSHIP TEAMS FROM SYRACUSE MENS LAX, UNC AND NAVY WOMENS LAX, AND MCLAREN F1! These are just the most recent championship teams using THE CHAMPION TEAMMATE book with their athletes and support teams. Many of these coaches are also getting THE CHAMPION SPORTS PARENT so their team parents can be part of a successful culture. Schools and clubs are using EVERY MOMENT MATTERS for staff development and book clubs. Are you? We have been fulfilling numerous bulk orders for some of the top high school and collegiate sports programs in the country, will your team be next? Click here to visit John's author page on Amazon Click here to visit Jerry's author page on Amazon Please email John@ChangingTheGameProject.com if you want discounted pricing on 10 or more books on any of our books. Thanks everyone. This week's podcast is brought to you by our friends at Sprocket Sports. Sprocket Sports is a new software platform for youth sports clubs. Yeah, there are a lot of these systems out there, but Sprocket provides the full enchilada. They give you all the cool front-end stuff to make your club look good– like websites and marketing tools – AND all the back-end transactions and services to run your business better so you can focus on what really matters – your players and your teams. Sprocket is built for those clubs looking to thrive, not just survive, in the competitive world of youth sports clubs. So if you've been looking for a true business partner – not just another app – check them out today at https://sprocketsports.me/CTG. BECOME A PREMIUM MEMBER OF CHANGING THE GAME PROJECT TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST If you or your club/school is looking for all of our best content, from online courses to blog posts to interviews organized for coaches, parents and athletes, then become a premium member of Changing the Game Project today. For over a decade we have been creating materials to help change the game. and it has become a bit overwhelming to find old podcasts, blog posts and more. Now, we have organized it all for you, with areas for coaches, parents and even athletes to find materials to help compete better, and put some more play back in playing ball. Clubs please email John@ChangingTheGameProject.com for pricing. Become a Podcast Champion! This weeks podcast is also sponsored by our Patreon Podcast Champions. Help Support the Podcast and get FREE access to our Premium Membership, with well over $1000 of courses and materials. If you love the podcast, we would love for you to become a Podcast Champion, (https://www.patreon.com/wayofchampions) for as little as a cup of coffee per month (OK, its a Venti Mocha), to help us up the ante and provide even better interviews, better sound, and an overall enhanced experience. Plus, as a $10 per month Podcast Super-Champion, you will be granted a Premium Changing the Game Project Membership, where you will have access to every course, interview and blog post we have created organized by topic from coaches to parents to athletes. Thank you for all your support these past eight years, and a special big thank you to all of you who become part of our inner circle, our patrons, who will enable us to take our podcast to the next level. https://www.patreon.com/wayofchampions
In this episode, Cressey Sports Performance - Florida hitting coach Ronnie Bernick talks about how hitters can use data to shape their long-term development rather than just getting hung up on a few numbers. These are important lessons for coaches and hitters (and parents!) alike.Support Our Sponsor: AG1
What if the real risk to our health isn't aging itself, but becoming metabolically weak?Dr. Gabrielle Lyon — physician, researcher, and one of the leading voices redefining how we think about health and longevity — shares why muscle sits at the center of lasting strength, energy, and vitality. In this wide-ranging conversation with Dr. Michael Gervais, she explores why health isn't something to manage later with prescriptions, but something to build deliberately through strength and daily discipline.Dr. Lyon's muscle-centric approach reframes aging and performance: real longevity is not about doing less, but building the capacity to do more — with purpose, clarity, and resilience. From the science of protein and training to the psychology of sustainable health, this conversation offers a roadmap to living strong, not just long.You'll learn:Why muscle is the organ of longevityHow to build metabolic health through training and nutritionThe key to balancing strength, performance, and recoveryHow to approach GLP-1 drugs (like Ozempic) with nuance and cautionWhy physical strength fuels mental resilience and purpose_______________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XPre-order The Forever Strong PLAYBOOK and receive exclusive bonuses - https://drgabriellelyon.com/playbook/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SummaryIn this first episode of Unit3d w/BigTeam at Indiana University, Dr. Jesse Steinfeldt sits down with a fellow former collegiate football player, Clinical Sport Psychologist Dr. Jacob Cooper. Together, Jesse and Jacob explore a range of topics, ranging from football to masculinity to oxytocin to Oracles. This engaging episode will give viewers insights into comprehensive masculinity, clinical techniques to maximize men's ability to perform and to connect, applications to military and NASCAR spaces, as well as a cameo appearance from a prophet who gives his predictions on the CFP Championship game AND the Super Bowl! It is a fun and informative conversation between two meathead doctors who model and care about men's mental heath, on the football field and beyond.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health in Sports04:26 Dr. Cooper's Journey in Sports Psychology06:43 The Injury Clinic: A New Approach09:55 Building Trust with Coaches and Athletes12:34 The Importance of Visibility and Credibility16:36 Cultural Humility in Sports Psychology21:18 Breaking Down Barriers to Help-Seeking24:46 Modeling Emotional Intelligence in Athletics25:47 Introduction to Emotional Intelligence in Sports26:31 Working with High-Performance Teams28:00 Integrating Physiological Metrics in Training30:36 The Role of Visualization in High-Stress Situations33:21 Community Resilience During Crisis37:00 Leadership and Its Impact on Team Dynamics42:30 Reflections on Loss and Community StrengthGuest BioDr. Jacob Cooper is the Associate Athletic Director of Sport Psychology and Mental Wellness at Appalachian State University in North Carolina. He has worked with athletes at the Olympic, Professional, and Division-1 levels over the course of his career. Dr. Cooper has worked with athletes and staff throughout the NFL, NASCAR, NHL, MLB, NBA, MLS, and PGA. With a unique background and training in the areas of occupational and industrial psychology, culture building, leadership training, and military psychology, he has provided performance optimization for military personnel prior to their deployments as well as counseling for veterans transitioning back to civilian life throughout Western North Carolina, Indiana, and Boston.
In this episode, Eric highlights four ways that you can evaluate whether your training programs are creating the wrong adaptations. While we work heavily with rotational athletes, several of these lessons are applicable across all sports.Support Our Sponsor: AG1
What changes when anxiety shows up—and you stop trying to outrun it, and start learning how to work with it?Dan Harris—journalist, bestselling author, and host of 10% Happier—returns to Finding Mastery to explore practical ways to work with anxiety. Dan unpacks how meditation, compassionate self-talk, and exposure built his capacity after a panic attack on live TV—and why curiosity is a powerful antidote to fear.Dan and Dr. Mike go beyond optimization into the human side: rebuilding from collapse, confronting panic (on planes, elevators, and big stages), and the daily reps that make composure more accessible. This is a grounded look at attention, identity, and training your inner life—without hacks or magical thinking.What you'll learnHow to use meditation as “bicep curls for the brain”Why self-talk (especially in third person) regulates panic in real timeThe key to working at your edge without traumatizing yourselfHow to turn exposure into confidence and capacityWhy curiosity beats cynicism for mental performanceAt its heart, this episode is a reminder: mastery isn't a shortcut; it's alignment between awareness, training, and what matters most._____________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XDan Harris on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TenPercentHappierSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this podcast, Eric speaks to planning out the yearly calendar, prioritizing certain qualities, and accounting for the differences in warm vs. cold weather climates.Support Our Sponsor: 1stPhorm
Our first guest is Andrew Rohrbach, a former professional baseball player who was drafted in the 9th round by the Colorado Rockies and knows firsthand what it takes—mentally and physically—to compete at the highest level. After stepping away from the game, Andrew earned his Master's degree in Sport Psychology from Long Beach State, where he worked with Division I athletes across multiple sports and saw just how powerful mental performance can be.Today, Andrew is the founder of Motive Mental Performance, where he helps athletes and teams build confidence, manage pressure, and stay grounded in high-stakes moments. Drawing from both lived experience and applied psychology, his work is especially focused on athlete identity and navigating life transitions beyond sport. His approach is practical, athlete-centered, and rooted in simple tools athletes can actually use in competition—helping athletes perform at their best while also feeling confident in who they are off the field.Work with Andrew Rohrbach, MS@motivemental performanceWork with Joy Hahn Silva Millora: www.instagram.com/with_joy.hs/Work with Laura Hahn-Segundo Collins, LCSW: lcollinslcsw.com, @theathletepsychotherapistMusic by Pathfire: Nathan Collins and Sean TitoneIntro Edited by Ian LevensteinEpisode Edited by Hahnacity
If you're trying to be productive, what if the answer isn't to do more… but to do less, better?On today's episode, we welcome back Cal Newport — Georgetown computer science professor, bestselling author of Deep Work and Slow Productivity, and one of the most influential voices on focus, sustainable achievement, and the hidden costs of our digital lives. Cal and Dr. Mike pick up where their first conversation left off — exploring why the human brain can't do its best work while juggling five active tasks, how context switching quietly crushes output, and what leaders can do to build cultures that protect focus without adding headcount. On the human side, Cal dives into digital fatigue, rethinking our relationship with phones, and how parents can create healthier tech norms at home. Finally, he looks ahead to AI — not with fear, but with clarity about how it can remove friction and restore our ability to think deeply.In this episode, you'll learn:Why doing fewer things at once leads to faster, better resultsHow to reduce context switching and build deep work into team cultureThe difference between true productivity and “pseudo-productivity”How to counter digital fatigue at work and at home — with different strategies for eachWhat parents should know about phones, social media, and attentionHow AI can actually protect deep work when used wiselyThe heart of this conversation: mastery in the modern world isn't about speed or volume — it's about depth, clarity, and choosing what truly deserves your attention._________________________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dr. Kathleen Martin Ginis is a Distinguished University Scholar and a Professor in the Department of Medicine (Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation) and in the School of Health and Exercise Sciences at The University of British Columbia. She holds the Reichwald Family Chair in Preventive Medicine and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, the Canadian Society for Psychomotor Learning and Sport Psychology, and as is an International Fellow of the National Academy of Kinesiology. The focus of Dr. Martin Ginis's research is placed on understanding and changing physical activity behaviour, particularly among people living with spinal cord injury. She is deeply committed to knowledge translation; specifically, the development and implementation of evidence-based best-practices to improve health and well-being among people with disabilities. By example, Dr. Martin Ginis spearheaded the formulation and knowledge translation of scientific exercise guidelines for adults with spinal cord injury. These guidelines have been translated into nearly 20 languages and are used worldwide in clinical and community settings. Part 2 Eighty percent admittedly is an arbitrary number, but it's one that most exercise scientists use as a sort of the minimum threshold for deeming someone adherent to the protocol. There were no differences in pain reduction between those with neuropathic versus musculoskeletal pain, but the small ends, small sample sizes for those two groups, make it difficult to really confirm that there is no difference in exercise outcomes for those two groups. She thinks we need to look at that further with bigger samples for each type of pain. Given the pragmatic nature of the trial that we let people exercise on their own in the community, she thinks this speaks to the feasibility of using exercise as a pain self-management strategy, but with the caveat that it's likely not going to be effective for everyone. Fifty percent of people with spinal cord injury report no leisure time physical activity whatsoever. In other words, no activity that could potentially improve cardiorespiratory fitness or muscle strength. And that's not the fault of people with spinal cord injury. Factors that influence physical activity don't just rest within the person, but they rest within society.
In this podcast, Cressey Sports Performance - FL hitting coach Ronnie Bernick highlights the differences between random and blocked practice, and just as importantly, outlines how each can fit into overall development plans for hitters.Support Our Sponsor: 1stPhorm
The most powerful way to enter a new year is not with resolutions, but with a deeper understanding of how to connect with the people who matter most.As we close out the year, the Finding Mastery team is taking time to rest, re-calibrate and reflect — practicing the same principles we talk about on this podcast. So today, we're sharing a conversation from the Finding Mastery Vault with two legends in the science of relationships: Drs. John and Julie Gottman.Together, they've spent more than 50 years studying what makes love last — from small moments of connection to the hidden habits that quietly erode trust. In this conversation, we explore the daily rituals that deepen intimacy, how to repair after conflict, and why the best relationships aren't perfect — they're practiced.In this episode, you'll learn:How to turn conflict into closeness through repairThe four behaviors that quietly destroy relationships (and how to replace them)Why “love is a verb” — and what that means in actionThe difference between bids for connection and real listeningHow to communicate needs without criticism or defensivenessFrom the entire Finding Mastery team, we wish you and your loved ones a very happy, healthy New Year. We'll see you in 2026! Enjoy this episode with The Gottmans.________________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if the greatest gift you could offer this season isn't something you buy—but rather the way you choose to meet yourself and others—with kindness?As we pause new releases over the holidays, the Finding Mastery team is taking time to rest, reflect, and be with our loved ones — because we believe relationships are part of the practice of mastery itself.So today, we're re-releasing a powerful, audio-only episode from the Finding Mastery Vault: a conversation with THE Sharon Salzberg, one of the world's leading teachers of wisdom, mindfulness and loving-kindness meditation. Sharon shares how love can be trained as an ability, why discernment and gratitude sharpen performance, and how to meet fear without hardening. She also walks us through a simple loving-kindness meditation you can use right away. Her lessons are as relevant now as they were when we first shared this conversation — maybe even more so in a world that could use a little more gentleness right now.So, Happy Holidays from all of us here at Finding Mastery and with that, enjoy this week's From The Vault conversation with Sharon Salzberg.___________________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Dr. Kathleen Martin Ginis is a Distinguished University Scholar and a Professor in the Department of Medicine (Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation) and in the School of Health and Exercise Sciences at The University of British Columbia. She holds the Reichwald Family Chair in Preventive Medicine and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, the Canadian Society for Psychomotor Learning and Sport Psychology, and as is an International Fellow of the National Academy of Kinesiology. The focus of Dr. Martin Ginis's research is placed on understanding and changing physical activity behaviour, particularly among people living with spinal cord injury. She is deeply committed to knowledge translation; specifically, the development and implementation of evidence-based best-practices to improve health and well-being among people with disabilities. By example, Dr. Martin Ginis spearheaded the formulation and knowledge translation of scientific exercise guidelines for adults with spinal cord injury. These guidelines have been translated into nearly 20 languages and are used worldwide in clinical and community settings. Part 1 One of her objectives is to present recent data showing the physical and mental health benefits of exercise for adults with spinal cord injury. She wants to introduce exercise guidelines for adults with SCI. Starting with the benefits of exercise from a mental and physical health perspective, probably the best two areas, best two outcomes for which there is evidence are improving insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular disease risk in this population. The fitness guideline stipulates that to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength, adults with SCI should do at least 20 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity, aerobic activity twice per week, and strength training exercises twice per week. The guideline for cardiometabolic health stipulates that a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity is required three times per week. She discussed how exercise improves well-being. She also talked about exercise in chronic pain. She described the Epic SCI trial, a pragmatic, randomized controlled trial, testing the effects of exercising according to the scientific SCI exercise guidelines on SCI chronic pain.
What would change if you stopped trying to push through fatigue — and instead learned what your biology is trying to tell you?On today's episode of Finding Mastery, we sit down with entrepreneur, author, and biohacking pioneer Dave Asprey — founder of Bulletproof, Upgrade Labs, and widely regarded as the father of the modern biohacking movement. This is Dave's second time on the podcast, and it's a nuanced exploration of what it means to live with vitality and consciousness in a world obsessed with optimization.In this episode, Dr. Mike and Dave dig into the science and philosophy behind performance, recovery, and emotional regulation — from neurofeedback and cold exposure to trauma, forgiveness, and redefining what “health” actually feels like. Dave opens up about losing his company, being publicly criticized, and the deep internal work required to find strength and gratitude again. You'll learn:Why “listening to your biology” may be more effective than pushing through fatigue.How Dave used neurofeedback and meditation to recover from collapse and betrayal.The link between emotional regulation, energy, and mitochondrial health.How to think critically about longevity practices — from fasting to peptides.Why darkness, stillness, and sunlight are as vital as any supplement.The conversation bridges biology and self-awareness — asking whether efficiency can coexist with depth, and what mastery really looks like when you align your body, mind, and purpose.Quick note from the Finding Mastery team: The views expressed are the guest's own and do not reflect those of Dr. Mike Gervais or Finding Mastery. This conversation is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult a licensed professional for questions on your own health. Thank you and enjoy the episode.Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if the future of work isn't about technology at all — but about unlocking more humanity in each other?On today's episode, we sit down with Kathleen Hogan, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer at Microsoft, and one of the key architects behind the company's cultural reinvention. Kathleen helped lead Microsoft's shift from a “know-it-all” to a “learn-it-all” culture — embedding empathy, curiosity, and growth mindset across a global workforce of more than 220,000 people.In this conversation, Kathleen and Dr. Michael Gervais explore what it really means to lead with humanity. She shares the moments that shaped her leadership — from facing cancer twice, to redefining success through purpose and connection — and the inner work required to help others unlock their potential.In this conversation, we explore:How Kathleen helped Microsoft reimagine its culture from the inside outWhy purpose and empathy are the foundation of effective leadershipHow to build psychological safety and courage in high-performing teamsWhat it means to lead with curiosity instead of certaintyThe role AI can play in empowering — not replacing — human potentialAt its heart, this episode is a reminder that leadership isn't about knowing more — it's about caring more._______________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindsetFollow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
I'm delighted to speak with Dr Robin Owen and Prof Shuge Zhang in this week's episode. Robin is a Senior Lecturer in Sport Psychology at Liverpool Hope University. His research aims to advance our understanding of anxiety, attentional focus, motor control, skill acquisition, statistical prediction, cognitive functioning, and talent identification/development. Shuge is currently a research Professor in Sport & Exercise Psychology at Hunan University of Technology in China. He previously lectured at the University of Derby. Shuge is a chartered psychologist of the British Psychological Society and a fellow of the Higher Education Academy. His research interest is the Person x Environment Interaction in performance and health contexts. In this episode, we discuss a fantastic paper Robin and Shuge contributed to which examined the impact of anxiety on performance in sports players.
What does it really mean to live with courage and conviction?On today's episode, we sit down with Dr. John Amaechi — organizational psychologist, New York Times bestselling author, and the first openly gay NBA player. Along his journey, John always set out to be himself in a world that repeatedly told him he was too big, too soft-spoken, too smart, too different. In this conversation, John brings us into parts of his internal world that are hard for any of us to talk about: navigating shame, identity, belonging, and the responsibility of not shrinking so others can stay comfortable. He talks about the cost of visibility, and the radical power of deciding that your worth is not up for negotiation.In this episode, we explore:How to move from clarity to conviction in your personal and professional lifeWhy vulnerability is a core strength of courageous leadershipThe key to creating relationships rooted in empathy and presenceHow to develop moral courage — and know when to walk awayWhat it means to lead from your first principlesThrough stories drawn from sport, psychology, and leadership, John challenges our cultural obsession with individual achievement and redefines what it means to succeed — not by how high you climb, but by how deeply you care and how many people you lift along the way. ___________________________________________________Links & Resources:Subscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindsetFollow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if the most powerful thing you can do for your health isn't diet or exercise — but investing in the people you love?Today's episode is from the Finding Mastery Vault — a timeless conversation with Dr. Robert Waldinger, psychiatrist, Harvard professor, Zen master, and Director of the world's longest-running scientific study on happiness.In this conversation, we explore the science of connection — how relationships literally get into our bodies, lower stress, improve our health, and expand our capacity to live well. We also discuss why loneliness can be as dangerous as smoking, and how small acts of social fitness, paired with the courage to be vulnerable, can change the trajectory of your life.You'll learn:How to build “social fitness” and maintain meaningful relationships over timeWhy relationships get into our bodies and improve long-term healthThe science behind loneliness, stress, and emotional regulationWhat it means to live a psychologically rich and purposeful lifeHow leaders can foster connection and belonging at workThis episode is timeless — and a powerful reminder: no one does it alone.________________________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if the key to becoming a champion isn't about chasing wins—but knowing when to pause, prioritize the inner work, and trust that the rest will follow?On today's episode, filmed in front of a live audience at California Surf Club, we sit down with Caroline Marks — the 2023 World Surf League Women's Champion and 2024 Olympic Gold Medalist. By 23, Caroline has already reached the pinnacle of her sport, becoming one of the most dominant surfers of her generation. But what makes her story remarkable isn't just the medals—it's the emotional and psychological work behind them.In this conversation, Caroline opens up about rebuilding after the heartbreak of Tokyo, the self-doubt that almost sidelined her, and how therapy, family, and faith in herself helped her rediscover her love for surfing. Dr. Mike and Caroline unpack what it means to train not just the body, but the mind—to develop emotional awareness, to redefine success, and to keep the joy alive in high-stakes environments.You'll learn:How to rebuild confidence and purpose after a major setbackWhy emotional awareness is the foundation for high performanceThe key to balancing ambition with inner peaceHow to strengthen trust—in yourself and in othersWhat it means to find motivation after reaching the topWhy mastering your emotions is a major competitive advantageThis is a powerful look into the mindset of a young champion who's rewriting what it means to win...inside and out. Tune in to hear how Caroline Marks is defining mastery on her own terms.________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryLocation: Thanks to California Surf Club, 239 N Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, CA.Get exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if real success is measured not by what you achieve, but by how deeply you give?On today's episode, we sit down with Gary Sinise—Emmy Award–winning actor and director best known for his roles in Forrest Gump, Apollo 13, and CSI: New York, and founder of the Gary Sinise Foundation—to explore his lifelong arc from self to service.Gary takes us back to the accidental spark of belonging he found in high school theater, the early days building Steppenwolf, and the quiet battle with inadequacy that forged a bias for action and leadership. We trace how portraying Lieutenant Dan in Forrest Gump became an inflection point—culminating in a life-altering moment on stage with 2,000 wounded veterans—and how 9/11 transformed his work into a full-fledged mission to support service members and their families.Gary also opens a tender window into his home front: his wife's battle with breast cancer and his late son Mac's courageous 5½-year fight with chordoma. He shares how showing up—again and again—became a practice, a purpose, and a way through grief.In this conversation, you'll learn:How to turn inadequacy into action—and why a bias toward doing builds real confidenceThe key to shifting from achievement to contribution without losing your driveHow to lead with presence when others seem steps aheadWhy purpose expands through loss—and how faith, family, and service hold the lineWhat it means to show up as a caregiver and “battle buddy” through life's hardest seasonsHow to transform creativity into service—and why art can be an act of healingIf you're craving a reminder that meaning is made in the moments we choose to serve, especially when it's hard, then this conversation will move you.__________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our YouTube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, Eric interviews two Emory Healthcare sports medicine physicians, Dr. Eric Wagner and Dr. Robert Bowers, on the complexities of diagnosing and treating thoracic outlet syndrome and peripheral nerve entrapment syndromes. They discuss relevant functional anatomy, the etiology of these conditions, and conservative and surgical management. Support Our Sponsor: AG1
Welcome to a special Monday episode on the Finding Mastery channel.Every once in a while, we come across a story or a person that moves us in a profound way — and this is one of those moments.Recently, I was invited by Aaron Lazar to join him on his new podcast, Impossible Dreams. Aaron is an incredible human — a Broadway and television actor, singer, and storyteller — who's facing ALS with extraordinary courage, humor, and grace. He's also pushing toward an almost unthinkable goal: to become the 64th person on record to ever reverse symptoms from ALS.I enjoyed the conversation so much that I knew I wanted to share it with you here on Finding Mastery — to raise awareness, and to honor Aaron's message about purpose, connection, and resilience in the face of life's hardest challenges.Takeaways from this episode:Why mastery of self — not just mastery of craft — changes the way we meet adversity.How awareness, self-talk, and gratitude can shift what's possible in any moment.What it means to move from “my team” to “the team.”How purpose and love become anchors when life feels uncertain.The small, daily practices that help us stay grounded, connected, and alive to what matters most.Enjoy this conversation with Aaron and myself — and let it remind you of the strength that lives inside all of us, even in the storm.____________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XAaron Lazar: http://www.aaronlazar.com and https://www.youtube.com/@ALImpossibleDreams ALS: www.als.orgSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if your biggest competitive advantage isn't how technologically advanced you are — but how psychologically agile your teams are?On today's episode, we sit down with Matt Garman — CEO of Amazon Web Services — to dig into the leadership frameworks behind one of the world's most innovative companies. We cover his “one-way vs. two-way doors” decision model, why “minimum lovable product” beats perfectionism, and how to push autonomy down while keeping trust and security high.We also explore what's really slowing AI adoption (and why replacing junior employees with AI is a terrible idea), why documents beat slide decks for high-stakes calls, and the long-view energy bets—including nuclear—that AWS believes will shape innovation and sustainability. Along the way, Matt shares the personal side of leading at speed: family dinners, golf as a reset, and the “support then challenge” cadence that helps teams sustain pace without burning out.What you'll learn:How to use the “one-way vs. two-way doors” framework to make faster, smarter decisionsWhy optimism (not naïveté) is a core competitive advantage for innovatorsThe key to shipping a minimum lovable product customers actually wantThe real frictions in AI adoption—and why replacing juniors with AI backfiresWhy long-horizon energy bets (including nuclear) matter for innovation and sustainabilityIf you're leading in a fast-moving world—or want to—this conversation offers practical frameworks and a shot of grounded optimism to help your team move faster, smarter, and with more heart.__________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if the real challenge of creativity isn't coming up with ideas… but creating the conditions where people believe in them enough to fight for them?Today, we sit down with Neal Arthur, Global CEO of Wieden+Kennedy, the iconic creative agency behind culture-shaping work from Nike's “Just Do It” to Coca-Cola and McDonald's. Neal leads one of the world's most inventive creative agencies, yet his lens on creativity isn't about chasing brilliance. It's about building the trust, safety, and belonging that allow great ideas to surface — and stick.We dig into how he unlocks creativity in a world changing rapidly with AI: the tension between stability and risk, how leaders create conditions for honesty, and what AI means for the future of creativity and culture. We also get personal: how growing up feeling “othered” shaped Neal's obsession with belonging and creative safety, why pressure rarely produces great work, and how optimism, resilience, and humility fuel constant reinvention.In this episode you'll learn:How to create conditions where pressure drops and creativity rises—even on deadlineWhy being “in it” with your team beats top-down mandates for great workThe key to using AI right now: shrink the problem, play, tweak, learnWhy “hard on the work, soft on the people” scales creative excellenceHow to navigate risk vs. stability when the future (especially with AI) is uncertainIf you care about unlocking world-class ideas in a rapidly changing world, this one is for you._____________________ Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if the key to deeper connection isn't in what you say — but in how your body speaks, listens, and moves?On today's episode, we sit down with Vanessa Van Edwards — behavioral researcher, bestselling author, and founder of Science of People. A self-described “recovering awkward person,” Vanessa turned social anxiety into a science-backed toolkit anyone can use to improve communication, connection, and leadership. Vanessa studies what happens beneath words: how posture, tone, eye contact, and presence shape how we're perceived and how we make others feel.Together, we explore the subtle science of connection — from how warmth and competence support charisma to the micro-cues that determine trust, likability, and confidence. This is an episode for anyone who wants to show up with authenticity, read the room better, and make their communication more impactful.In this episode, you'll learn:How to use posture and physical space to project calm confidenceWhy warmth must come before competence to build trust fastHow to eliminate vocal fry and question-inflection for stronger communicationThe key to spotting and disarming contempt before it festersHow to teach kids “micro social skills” that build courage and connectionIt's a grounded, science-backed guide to showing up with more presence — and helping others feel at ease in your orbit. ____________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.