The Sport Psych Show

Dr. Thomas Simpson, a Lecturer in Motor Learning at Edge Hill University, discusses optimizing children's motor learning through attentional and motivational insights. He reveals how the OPTIMAL theory can transform physical education by using external focus and enhanced expectations. The conversation explores fostering autonomy in coaching, the importance of thoughtful feedback, and the impact of positive reinforcement on young athletes. Additionally, he highlights the crucial differences between external and internal focus in improving sports performance.

In this engaging chat, Dr. Scott McLean, a Senior Research Fellow and award-winning football coach, delves into complexity and systems thinking in sports. He emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to enhance performance and tackle challenges in athletics. Scott discusses anti-doping systems, advocating for holistic reforms instead of blaming athletes. He also critiques accountability in football, highlighting successful club models. Lastly, he explores the implications of talent and recognition for young athletes within systemic dynamics.

In this insightful conversation, Bernadette Kellermann, a Sport Psychologist and PhD candidate at the University of Edinburgh, shares her unique journey from music to performance psychology. She discusses the Multi-Action Plan (MAP) Model and its application in understanding transitions between mental states in high-level judo performance. The exploration includes the interplay of mental dynamics during competition, the significance of emotional regulation, and the unique performance states athletes navigate. Bernadette highlights reflective practices that enhance athlete development, enriching our understanding of mental transitions in sport.

Mia KurtzFavero, a recent Master’s graduate in Sport Psychology and an avid volleyball coach, dives into the complex world of parent-coaches. She discusses her compelling research on the dual role of coaching and parenting, revealing the challenges these individuals face and the lack of resources available to them. Mia emphasizes the importance of strong interpersonal skills and effective communication between parent-coaches and their children. She calls for more research and structured support to enhance coaching effectiveness in youth sports.

Dr. Jim Taylor, an internationally recognized expert on performance psychology and a former world-ranked alpine ski racer, shares insights on training the mind for athletic success. He discusses the critical role of mental training, emphasizing positive mindset and confidence. Taylor explores how personal narratives shape athletes' performance and the significant emphasis on mental health in sports. He also highlights strategies for building self-efficacy and overcoming mental barriers, underscoring the connection between psychology and unlocking athletic potential.

In this discussion, Dr. Derek Panchuk, a skill acquisition specialist with over 15 years of experience, dives into the art and science of coaching. He emphasizes the crucial role of visual perception in sports, highlighting how elite athletes like Messi excel in decision-making through effective visual cues. Derek explores innovative training methods, including gamifying cricket practices with audio cues to enhance anticipation. He also stresses the balance between training volume and skill development, advocating for adaptable coaching strategies that boost athlete performance and resilience.

Mehdi Kordi, a performance coach and scientist with a PhD in Sport and Exercise Physiology, previously led the Dutch National Cycling Union to Olympic success. He discusses transforming a struggling cycling team into world champions through strategic cultural shifts and trust-building. Mehdi emphasizes the balance between data-driven coaching and understanding athletes' emotional needs. He also explores innovative approaches like marginal gains and highlights the importance of diverse perspectives and team cohesion in high-performance sports.

Dr. Chris Shambrook, a sports psychologist with 25 years of coaching experience and six Olympic Games under his belt, shares insights about high performance. The conversation reflects on lessons learned from hosting numerous industry leaders. They discuss the essential role of confidence in both sports and corporate settings, the evolution of sports psychology, and the importance of mental frameworks for athletes. Chris emphasizes belief and communication in coaching, and the need for collaboration in enhancing performance across various fields.

Duff Gibson, a former Olympic gold medallist and coach, shares his extensive expertise in sport and the mental facets of athletics. He discusses his journey through different sports, emphasizing self-awareness and mental strategies. Duff highlights the importance of balancing rigorous training with personal well-being, illustrating this with anecdotes of team camaraderie. He also explores intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation and the necessity of a growth mindset, revealing how a supportive approach can lead to success in competitive environments.

Dr. Kimberly Wagner, a licensed clinical and sport psychologist with a competitive athletic background, shares her insights on enhancing performance through mental skills. She reveals the vital role of resilience and positive self-talk, particularly in baseball. The discussion highlights the connection between mental health and athletic success, emphasizing tailored mental skills training. Kimberly also illustrates how these skills can be applied beyond sports to elevate performance in professional settings, offering listeners practical tools to navigate mental barriers.