In this episode, we conclude Season 5 with another raw conversation revisiting grief with Dr. Tim Pineau. In the previous two conversations, Tim has shared his authentic and evolving experience with grief after the loss of his infant daughter. In this deeply personal follow-up to those conversations, Tim speaks with us about how this experience has influenced his relationship with and teaching of mindfulness, how stepping back and seeing more of the big picture has brought him a sense of peace, and how his evolving perspectives on what is important in this world has changed his work with competitors. Social Media Mentioned:Twitter/X: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the showSupport the show

In this episode, we have a candid discussion on the continued presence of mental health stigma in sports. For example, differences in how physical injury versus mental health symptoms are regarded. Keith and Tim shed light on some common misconceptions surrounding mental health challenges among athletes, and explore the unique role that pressure has in sport environments. Taylor shares his personal insights highlighting the importance of changing entrenched concepts of grit and toughness in athletics.  Social Media Mentioned:Twitter/X: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the show

In this episode, University of Pennsylvania Head Women's Rowing Coach Wes Ng joins the conversation. He talks with Keith and Tim about his unique coaching philosophy that has guided him to success across divisions of NCAA competition, including being named 2023 Ivy League and Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association (CRCA) D1 Region I Coach of the Year.Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the show

In this episode, Keith, Tim, and Taylor continue their conversation about the compatibility of mindfulness and competition. Part 1 of this conversation centered largely on mindfulness aspects of this debate, while this episode delves deeper into the competition side. Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.comBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the show

In this episode, Keith, Tim, and Taylor have a conversation about an ever-present tension in their work: the compatibility of mindfulness and competition. From one perspective, packaging mindfulness for the inherently striving act of winning is counter to the very foundations of this type of practice. Alternatively, helping make mindfulness digestible, accessible, and practical can allow people to benefit in their sporting and everyday lives. Join us for Part 1 of this discussion.    Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.comBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the show

Rediscover the transformative power of play as we sit down with Dr. Matt Bowers, faculty member in the Sport Management program at the University of Texas at Austin and key contributor to the Aspen Institute's Project Play. His fascinating research is challenging the current understanding of athlete development in youth sport, and he helps us explore the often overlooked value of play in fostering creativity, passion, and mindfulness in young athletes.  Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:mindfulsportperformance.orgenduromind.comprojectplay.orgBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the showSupport the show

In this episode, Keith, Tim, and Taylor unpack some of the profound impacts that the COVID pandemic has had across the world of sport and on athletes of all ages and levels - including impacts on personal identity, mental health, and performance. We also celebrate the strength and adaptability that has emerged during this challenging time, and discuss how the integration of mindfulness and other wellness strategies can be crucial as echoes of the pandemic linger.  Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.comBooks Mentioned:Mindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the showSupport the show

Are participation trophies merely shiny objects that distract from the true essence of competition, or do they play a key role in building self-esteem and encouraging future sport involvement? In this episode, we explore the pros and cons with a critical eye, weighing the possibility that these awards might be diluting the significance of hard work and resilience, while also acknowledging that kids are often more perceptive about the value of these trophies than we give them credit for. The episode culminates with a broader discussion on how sports shape kids' beliefs and values, particularly as they stand at the crossroads of either deepening their involvement or stepping away from competitive play. This conversation contributes to a dialogue on the importance of intrinsic motivation, the overemphasis on winning, and how mindfulness practices can help reinforce a healthy perspective on self-worth that transcends the playing field.Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.comBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the showSupport the show

In this episode, we're thrilled to have Brady Howe, Vice President of Health and Performance for the NBA's Phoenix Suns, to discuss enhancing athlete performance holistically. Tim begins the episode with a brief mindfulness practice, and then we chat with Brady about his journey and experiences in the NBA and the importance of collaboration among physical and mental/psychological specialists.    Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdoc, @bhowe6YouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.comBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the show

What does it take to execute and lead effectively amidst the pressures of a game? Join us as we explore these questions with our guest, American professional soccer player Aidan Rocha. This episode is a deep dive into the science and art of mental preparation in elite sport. Aidan shares his pre-game routine, the mental practices he picked up during his time at Georgetown University, and how he uses mindfulness to enhance his performance at the pro level. He also describes how he creates emotional space, embodies positivity, and crafts his leadership style. And, how Eastern philosophy has influenced his approach to soccer and life. The episode wraps up with a discussion on how intensity, mindfulness, and leadership go hand-in-hand within a pro sports team, and Aidan gives us an insider's view of how it all can come together. So, whether you're an athlete, coach, sport psychologist, or a die-hard sports fan, this episode promises to deliver valuable insights and a fresh perspective on mental aspects of professional sport. Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdoc, @aidanrochaaYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.comBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate and support our podcast, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the show

What role does winning play in your life? Are you consumed by the need to be #1, or do you find joy in simply participating and growing from the experience? Join us in this episode of The Mindful Sport Performance Podcast, where we disentangle the intertwined concepts of winning, success, motivation, balance, and life satisfaction.Winning - it's a concept that's often synonymous with success, recognition, and opportunities. But is it the only measure of success? Not necessarily, as we discover in our chat with our AI friend, Chat GPT. We tackle the complex relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, explaining how a healthy appetite for competition can be inspiring, and how finishing last in a grand finale can sometimes be more rewarding than winning a lesser final. We probe into the potential downsides of being overly competitive, reflecting on personal experiences and perspectives including Kobe Bryant's view on the necessity of winning. As we wrap up this conversation, we place a magnifying glass over the impact of winning and the potential imbalance it can create in our lives. Can we truly achieve success without compromising our personal wellbeing? What happens when we don't win? Do new doors open? We dissect these questions and more, leaving you with fresh insights to ponder about the concept of winning and success in sports, and life in general. This dialogue is sure to challenge your mindset and redefine your perception of victory.Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.comBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate our podcast and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor Support the show

In this episode, we welcome Deirdre Keane, a former pediatric critical care nurse practitioner, now a healthcare consultant, who found solace in running after the loss of her father. More than just a runner, Deirdre's story is one of resilience and overcoming adversity, reminding us all of the power of the human spirit. Her passion for running pushed her beyond marathons and into the realm of ultra marathons, ultimately leading her to victory in the World Marathon Challenge.Deirdre's journey is fraught with challenges, mentally and physically, but her deep-seated faith and philosophy has carried her through. Her approach to life, deeply impacted by her father, has shaped her into the champion she is today. As she navigates the risky terrains of the World Marathon Challenge, we delve into her thoughts on identity, motivations, and the intriguing collection of runners who dare to tackle this daunting challenge.But the story doesn't end at the finish line. We'll take a step back from the adrenaline rush of the race to address the often overlooked topic of balance in a high-intensity sport like running. Deirdre offers an honest account of her struggle to maintain equilibrium, and the dark reality of depression faced by many retired athletes. Her athletic achievements continue to inspire us, making this episode a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Tune in for a journey of resilience, faith, and balance that will leave you inspired and moved.Support the show

🎧 Enjoying our show? Your support keeps us going! Become a valued subscriber and set your own monthly contribution. We believe in you, our incredible listeners, determining the value of our content. Your subscription empowers us to keep delivering top-notch episodes that inspire, inform, and entertain. Together, let's fuel this journey and shape the future of our podcast. Click the link below and let's create something amazing, hand in hand. Support the showOn this week's episode: mental health acceptance in sports. Brace yourself for a powerful discussion inspired by Lee Dixon and Robbie Mustoe, who open the door to their personal experiences with mental health during their football careers in a recent NBC Premier League Mornings segment. As we navigate this labyrinth of mental health in professional sports, we reflect on the scarcity of support these players received during their active years, and the significant strides made in resources for present-day players.This episode goes beyond the usual playbook, venturing into an important, often overlooked realm—awareness, and acceptance of mental health in sports. Together, we dissect the urgent necessity for coaches to be vigilant about potential mental health struggles their athletes may endure, and stand as a beacon guiding them towards the help they need. We're not just here to talk; we're here to transform. Join us as we challenge the conventional segregation of mental and physical health, and advocate for the priceless value of mindfulness for athletes. From exploring the spectrum of mental health needs among athletes, to the role of holistic wellness and the indispensable part coaches play in managing athlete's mental health needs, we touch on a lot of the issues, but really only scratch the surface. Let's kick off the stigma, lace up our boots, and rewrite the rules of the game together. Tune in as we continue this crucial conversation. Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.comBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate our podcast and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor (our producer!) Support the show

Imagine a world where the term 'student athlete' is irrelevant and college sports have been commercialized. Is it a utopia where athletes, like their professional counterparts, are fairly compensated for their skills and effort? Or is it a dystopia where values and education take a back seat to monetary gains? Our producer, Taylor Brown, joins us as we traverse through this fascinating landscape of 'what ifs'.We begin by scrutinizing the origins of the 'student athlete' term and the NCAA's NIL regulations. The recent Supreme Court ruling opens a Pandora's box of arguments and counterarguments, backed by the harsh reality that over half a million college athletes may never benefit from this shift. Our debate then steers towards the monetization of college sports, and we ponder on its possible implications for the players. Could paying college athletes potentially upend their focus and resilience? How does this conversation fit within the larger discourse of rising college costs and free education? These are just a few of the questions we tackle in our discussion.Finally, we take a detour and delve into the seldom-explored intersection of college sports and mindfulness. Challenging ourselves and you, our listeners, to question our wants versus our needs in the capitalist framework of college sports. We also explore how compassion and interconnectedness can be a tool in supporting those less fortunate in this landscape. This episode isn't just about debating the pay structure for college athletes. It's about understanding the ethical, emotional, and socio-economic facets of this complex issue, from a perspective of mindfulness and generosity. Join us on this journey of discovery as we untangle this enigma that is college sports.Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_instituteYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.comBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate our podcast and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor (our producer!) Support the showSupport the show

Are you ready to challenge the traditional paradigm of success and greatness? What if hard work and perseverance aren't the only tickets to victory? Buckle up as we embark on an intriguing exploration redefining greatness in sports. We analyze the sports careers of high-profile athletes who, despite their relentless dedication and effort, never reached the pinnacle of success. Alongside, we ponder the elusive elements of luck and opportunity, and their often overlooked role in shaping an athlete's career.Ever wondered how acceptance, bravery, and consistency contribute to an athlete's success? We delve into these aspects of Keith's "ABCs of greatness." From the thrill of victory to the agony of defeat, we discuss how accepting reality, embracing bravery, and demonstrating consistency can influence an athlete's career trajectory. We then zoom out to address the broader complexities of greatness — integrating the inherent qualities with hard work, wrestling with the fear of acceptance, and nurturing confidence and curiosity about life's possibilities.Finally, we plunge into the philosophical depths of sports, drawing parallels from Buddhist teachings and the wisdom of Pema Chödrön. We ponder upon the power of embracing uncertainty and "muting oneself" to unlock an athlete's full potential. And for our closing act, we shine a spotlight on rowing — a testament to the power of perseverance and a fascinating example of 'rowing for greatness'. So, are you ready to upend your notions of success and bask in the richness of this unconventional perspective on sports greatness?Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdocInstagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_institute, @mindfulsportdocYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance PodcastWebsites Mentioned:www.mindfulsportperformance.orgwww.enduromind.commspepodcast.buzzsprout.comBooks MentionedMindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate our podcast and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor (our producer!) Support the show

Given the recent stories coming out of Northwestern University, Tim, Keith, and Taylor discuss what perpetuates the fear and "power-over" culture within sports teams, possible alternatives, and how to help coaches make the shift toward a "trust culture." Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdoc Instagram: @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_instituteYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance Podcast Websites Mentioned: www.mindfulsportperformance.org www.enduromind.comBooks Mentioned Mindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate our podcast and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor (our producer!) Support the showSupport the show

In this episode, our Season 4 finale, professional soccer player Jack Beer joins the conversation. Jack currently plays for NYCFC II in  MLS NEXT Pro. He starred at Georgetown University where he won the NCAA Championship in 2019. Inspired by his own experiences with anxiety and depression, Jack serves as a mental health advocate and aims to transform the narratives surrounding mental health and athletics. He is a Whole Being Athlete ambassador for Athletes for Hope where he is featured on panels to discuss the importance of reducing the stigma toward mental health.Jack begins with a Wim Hof breathing practice, and then chats with Keith and Tim about: [10:17] How Jack developed his pre-game routines [12:57] Jack's journey with his mental health and how it led him to becoming an advocate for mental health and an ambassador for Athletes for Hope[25:45] Acceptance of mental health at the MLS level and the opportunities that are still available for further evolution[28:28] The challenges of making a culture of mental health more visible in an environment where it is still largely invisible [41:13] The potentially destructive impact of social media on player mental health*Note: this episode was recorded just prior to the end of NYCFC II's 2022 season. They have just begun their 2023 season at the time of this episode's launch.Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdoc Instagram: @jbeer10, @mindful_sport_podcast,  @mspe_instituteYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance Podcast Websites Mentioned: www.athletesforhope.orgwww.mindfulsportperformance.org www.enduromind.comBooks Mentioned Mindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate our podcast and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor (our producer!) Support the show

In this episode, sport psychiatrist Dr. Sarah Pospos joins the conversation. Sarah completed her psychiatric residency as a Chief Resident at UCLA-Kern. As a sports psychiatrist and former student-athlete, she is devoted to helping aspiring, current, and former athletes with depression, performance and general anxiety, insomnia, and psychiatric challenges associated with injury, concussion, retirement, overtraining, and other issues in her California telepsychiatry practice. Sarah begins the episode with a diaphragmatic breathing practice, then she talks with Keith and Tim about: [9:10]  What exactly is sport psychiatry?[14:36]  Working through athletes' concerns about medications and their side effects. [21:11]  Dealing with the stigma of working with a psychiatrist. [24:30]  Situations in which psychiatric interventions are particularly helpful. [28:50]  Sarah's journey to mindfulness and how she applies it in her work. [34:55] How Sarah introduces mindfulness practice to her clients. Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdoc Instagram: @mindful_sport_podcast, @mspe_institute, @lifestyletelepsychiatryYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance Podcast Websites Mentioned: https://www.lifestyletelepsychiatry.com/www.mindfulsportperformance.org www.enduromind.comBooks Mentioned Mindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate our podcast and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor (our producer!) Support the show

In this episode, elite golfer and therapist Matt Sughrue joins the conversation. Matt was a successful insurance executive and business owner in the Washington, DC metro area for 25 years. Then, in 2008, at the age of 49, he took a major life detour and trained to become a psychotherapist and performance consultant. Among his varied clientele are amateur and professional golfers - across several pro tours. Matt is also an accomplished  golfer himself. He is the 8th ranked senior amateur in the world by The World Amateur Golf Ranking and has played in 33 major national golf championships. In November 2022, Matt  represented the USA at the Concession Cup, competing against Europe's finest senior and mid-amateur golfers.  Matt, Tim, and Keith are all members of the Mid-Atlantic Consortium of Sport and Performance Psychology. Matt begins the episode with a mindful awareness practice. Then he, Keith, and Tim discuss: [8:34]  Meditation in Matt's competition experiences and the importance of "in-between" time[14:12]  The impact of personal disclosure in Matt's work with sports clients [17:43]  Matt's competition debrief process structure and function[20:58]  The importance of language in the process of improvement and how it can shift perspective [23:15]  Matt's personal experience with the yips[37:29]  The nuances of "caring" about your sport and the implications it has for personal identity [48:33]  Matt's approach to working with athletes who are experiencing the yipsSocial Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdoc Instagram: @mindful_sport_podcast, @mspe_instituteYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance Podcast Websites Mentioned: www.mattsughrue.comwww.mindfulsportperformance.org www.enduromind.comBooks Mentioned Mindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate our podcast and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor (our producer!) Support the show

In this episode, professional rugby player Marcel Brache joins the conversation. Marcel was born in the United States and moved to South Africa at age 4. It was there that he discovered and fell in love with the game of rugby, and he became a professional rugby player at the age of 23. Marcel played rugby in South Africa for 3 years before moving to Australia, and playing there for 8 seasons. He has since moved back to the United States, and last year signed with and played for the Major League Rugby team, Austin Gilgronis. Keith begins the episode with an energizing breathing practice, and then he, Tim, and Marcel discuss:[9:45]  Mindfulness and non-judgment as a path to presence and authenticity[14:20]  Marcel's journey to rugby, self-inquiry, and ultimately, acceptance[24:29]  The importance of language in conversations not only about mental health, but also performance [29:08]  The growing acceptance of mental health as pivotal aspect of performance in rugby Social Media Mentioned:Twitter: @mindfulsportdoc, @brache87 Instagram: @mindful_sport_podcast, @mspe_instituteYouTube: Mindful Sport Performance Podcast Websites Mentioned: www.mindfulsportperformance.org www.enduromind.comBooks Mentioned Mindful Sport Performance EnhancementRemember to rate our podcast and subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Very much appreciated, Keith, Tim, and Taylor (our producer!)Support the show