What does it take to chase down your dreams in the grueling world of marathon running, where the miles test not only your body but also your mind and spirit? Des Linden, elite American marathoner and two-time Olympian, reveals the mental fortitude, sacrifices, and relentless drive that have defined her journey.

Join Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they explore Choosing to Run by Des Linden, uncovering the mindset that keeps her moving forward, even in the face of setbacks and doubts. From a complicated family dynamic that shaped her early love for sports to the rigorous demands of professional running, Des's story sheds light on the power of resilience and self-belief. Through it all, she emphasizes the importance of grit, adaptability, and learning to thrive in discomfort—qualities that define a true champion.

In this episode, you will:

• Discover how Des harnesses mental imagery and visualization to prepare for her toughest races.

• Understand the impact of family influences on her competitive spirit and her journey toward self-reliance.

• Explore the significance of persistence, self-advocacy, and the ability to adapt training for longevity and balance.

• Learn about the gritty reality of marathon running, where success is built on a foundation of discomfort and sacrifice.

Join us as we delve into Des Linden’s marathon of dreams—where each mile tells a story of perseverance, growth, and the relentless pursuit of one’s potential.

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Watch & Listen on YouTube:⁠⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠⁠

Buy the Book: Choosing to Run

Socials:

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⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @Performerspod⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/performerspod/⁠⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-simpson-ph-d-cmpc-76244b1a/⁠⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-young-ph-d-cmpc-64765a35/⁠⁠

Hero or Villain? How do you celebrate a man who defied the odds of cancer while also confronting his role in one of sports’ biggest doping scandals? Lance Armstrong’s journey is as complex as it is compelling. Join Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they unravel the multifaceted story of Lance Armstrong. From his triumphs on the Tour de France to his battle with cancer, Armstrong’s life represents both incredible feats of endurance and a complex legacy of deception and controversy.

In this episode, they dive into Armstrong’s autobiography It’s Not About the Bike, capturing the highs and lows of a career defined by extremes. They explore how Armstrong's journey, from a childhood marked by financial struggle and absent father figures to a cancer diagnosis that redefined his purpose, forged the athlete’s fierce, “me against the world” mentality. They also delve into the ethical questions raised by his well-documented use of performance-enhancing drugs and his relentless pursuit of dominance in cycling.

In this episode of Performers, you will:

• Learn how adversity can fuel resilience and success.

• Understand the power of reframing fear and redefining what truly matters.

• Explore the ethical complexities of heroism, cheating, and legacy.

Listen on Spotify:⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠⁠

Listen on Apple:⁠ ⁠Apple⁠⁠

Watch & Listen on YouTube:⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠⁠

Buy the Book: https://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-About-Bike-Journey/dp/1565114493

Socials:

X -⁠ ⁠https://twitter.com/SportPsychDunc⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @Performerspod⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/performerspod/⁠⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-simpson-ph-d-cmpc-76244b1a/⁠⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-young-ph-d-cmpc-64765a35/⁠⁠

Chapters

00:00 Facing Mortality: Lance's Cancer Journey

03:46 The Paradox of Lance Armstrong

05:40 Childhood Influences and Early Struggles

09:31 The Drive for Independence and Success

14:15 The Role of Family Support

17:17 Navigating Social Pressures and Identity

18:47 Seizing Opportunities in Cycling

22:27 Learning the Complexities of Professional Cycling

30:06 The Science of Winning and Continuous Improvement

38:54 Confronting Cancer: A Life-Altering Diagnosis

39:01 Reprioritizing Fear and Perspective

42:44 Identity Crisis: The Impact of Cancer

49:00 Hope vs. Fear: The Psychological Struggle

53:54 Transformation Through Adversity

56:27 The Obligation of the Cured: A New Purpose

59:22 The Comeback: Facing Financial and Physical Challenges

01:05:53 Training for the Tour: A New Mindset

01:14:53 1999 Tour de France: The Journey to Victory

01:24:38 The Symbolism of Winning: More Than Just a Title

How do you transform fear of failure into a weapon that powers you to greatness? Join Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they dive into the remarkable career of Sir Alastair Cook, England's former cricket captain and one of the sport's greatest opening batsmen.

In this episode, they explore how Cook’s upbringing at boarding school and his time singing in the choir instilled essential values like discipline, consistency, and teamwork. These early lessons, combined with his relentless dedication to deliberate practice, shaped his journey from backyard games to international cricket success. Through his autobiography, Cook shares insights on battling inner demons, finding mentorship, and balancing self-reliance with support from others. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, mental toughness, and the human connections that fuel performance.

In this episode of Performers, you will:

• Discover how early life experiences contribute to a performer’s development.

• Gain insights into overcoming fear of failure and self-doubt.

• Learn the importance of mentorship, reflection, and mental health in sports.

Listen on Spotify:⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠⁠

Listen on Apple:⁠ ⁠Apple⁠⁠

Watch & Listen on YouTube:⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠⁠

Buy the Book: https://www.amazon.com/Sir-Alastair-Cook-TPB/dp/0241401437

Socials:

X -⁠ ⁠https://twitter.com/SportPsychDunc⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @Performerspod⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/performerspod/⁠⁠

⁠⁠LinkedIn - Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-simpson-ph-d-cmpc-76244b1a/⁠⁠

⁠⁠LinkedIn - Greg Young⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-young-ph-d-cmpc-64765a35/⁠⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

03:52 Unleashing the Power of Familiar Virtues

12:19 The Impact of Early Experiences on Development

16:09 The Role of Love for the Game

17:03 Fear of Failure as a Motivator

19:18 The Significance of Hard Work and Resilience

21:34 Personal Development and Mentorship

29:31 Addressing Mental Health in Professional Sports

39:55 The Challenges of Opening the Batting in Cricket

47:22 The Power of Reflection for Leaders

47:51 Building Trust and Overcoming Self-Doubt

49:39 Harnessing the Power of Mindfulness and Visualization

53:19 The Impact of Shared Experiences and Relationships

57:00 Leadership: Expectations, Transparency, and Accountability

01:04:22 Overcoming Adversity and Perseverance

01:06:57 Embracing Vulnerability and Seeking Support

01:10:19 The Foundation of Trust in Team Success

01:11:46 The Power of Genuine Human Connection

01:13:27 Avoiding Neglect of Emotional Support and Over-Reliance on Self

01:14:03 Balancing Instruction with Independence

01:14:28 Mental Toughness and Concentration

01:15:41 Transitioning from one identity to another

Can a challenging start in life shape the mindset of a fearless champion? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they explore the incredible journey of Simone Biles, one of the greatest gymnasts of all time.

In this episode, they delve into Biles’ rise from a childhood marked by foster care and uncertainty to becoming a global icon in gymnastics. Despite the hurdles she faced, Biles’ unwavering commitment to her sport, coupled with her relentless pursuit of excellence, led her to break records and set new standards in gymnastics. We’ll uncover how her early experiences forged a mindset of resilience, fearlessness, and determination that has defined her career. Biles' story offers powerful lessons on overcoming adversity, the importance of support systems, and staying true to your passion.

In this episode of "Performers," you will:

• Learn how to transform adversity into a source of strength

• Gain insights into developing a fearless mindset

• Unlock the importance of a strong support system in achieving success

Listen on Spotify:⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠⁠

Listen on Apple:⁠ ⁠Apple⁠⁠

Watch & Listen on YouTube:⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠⁠

Buy the Book: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Courage-Soar-Body-Motion-Balance/dp/0310759668

Socials:

X -⁠ ⁠https://twitter.com/SportPsychDunc⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @Performerspod⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/performerspod/⁠⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-simpson-ph-d-cmpc-76244b1a/⁠⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-young-ph-d-cmpc-64765a35/⁠⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Courage to Soar

02:23 Simone Biles' Challenging Upbringing

03:44 Early Exposure to Gymnastics

08:29 The Importance of Stability and Resilience

11:33 Intrinsic Motivation and Love for the Sport

13:42 Overcoming Obstacles and Setting Goals

19:15 The Role of Coaches and Parents

23:10 Dreaming of Olympic Success

24:52 Facing Challenges and Making Sacrifices

26:51 Balancing Intensity and Maintaining Focus

31:27 Channeling ADHD into Success

34:31 Mastering Skills through Repetition and Training

40:46 Dealing with Pressure and High Expectations

44:44 Pushing Through Challenges and Striving for Greatness

48:01 Overcoming Adversity and Embracing Talents

50:24 Resilience in the Face of Failure and the Power of Persistence

53:05 Staying True to Yourself and Finding Joy in the Journey

56:30 Focus on the Present Moment and the Importance of Rest

57:44 Balancing Passion and Pressure

How can a humble upbringing fuel the creation of a football dynasty? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they delve into the extraordinary journey of Sir Alex Ferguson, one of the greatest football managers of all time.

In this episode, we explore Ferguson’s rise from his humble beginnings in Govan, Glasgow, to becoming a football legend who transformed Manchester United into a global powerhouse. Despite facing significant challenges, Ferguson’s commitment to discipline, hard work, and strong leadership led to unprecedented success. We’ll uncover how his upbringing in a close-knit working-class community, his relentless pursuit of excellence, and his ability to manage diverse personalities were crucial to his triumphs. Ferguson’s story offers invaluable lessons on leadership, resilience, and the importance of staying connected to your values as you navigate the path to success.

In this episode of "Performers," you will:

1. Learn how to adapt and innovate for success

2. Gain insights into the power of discipline and hard Work

3. Unlock the core principles of strong leadership and communication

Listen on Spotify: ⁠Spotify⁠

Listen on Apple: ⁠Apple⁠

Watch & Listen on YouTube: ⁠YouTube⁠

Buy the Book: Managing my Life

Socials:

X - ⁠https://twitter.com/SportPsychDunc⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @Performerspod ⁠https://www.instagram.com/performerspod/⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-simpson-ph-d-cmpc-76244b1a/⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-young-ph-d-cmpc-64765a35/⁠

Chapters

00:00 The Impact of Upbringing and Community

05:14 Overcoming Setbacks and Building Resilience

11:01 Navigating Toxic Environments

13:13 Resilience and Determination

20:15 From Player to Manager

24:10 Principles and Practices at St. Mirren

25:42 Importance of Discipline and Diet

26:44 Decision-Making and Leadership

31:05 Success and Unstoppable Spirit at Aberdeen

37:25 The Importance of a Support System

40:05 The Challenges of Managing Individual Ambitions

42:51 The Impact of Success on Team Dynamics

47:49 The Opportunity at Manchester United

49:01 Setting New Standards at Manchester United

51:16 The Importance of Fitness and Balance

52:37 Building a Strong Team Culture

58:00 Investing in Youth Development and Scouting

01:04:51 Embrace Your Roots and Value Hard Work

01:09:13 Stay Resilient in the Face of Adversity and Build Strong Relationships

01:12:50 Lead by Example and Adapt to Innovate

01:15:03 Stay True to Your Principles and Cherish the Journey

01:18:57 Understand and Manage People: The Key to Success

01:21:14 Avoid Neglecting Emotional and Mental Health

01:21:45 Don't Overlook the Importance of Communication

01:23:51 Manage Stress and Pressure for Optimal Performance

01:26:01 Resolve Conflicts and Avoid Overemphasizing External Validation

01:27:42 Avoid Complacency and Define Your Own Success

What does it take to conquer the Masters while battling personal struggles? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they delve into the unconventional journey of Bubba Watson, a two-time Masters champion.

In this episode, we explore Bubba's rise from a child prodigy in Bagdad, Florida, to a golfing maverick who won the prestigious green jacket twice. Despite facing significant mental and emotional challenges, Bubba's unique approach to golf and life has led to extraordinary success. We'll uncover how his vision, resilience, and the crucial support from his caddy, Teddy, played pivotal roles in his triumphs. Bubba’s story offers invaluable lessons on overcoming adversity, maintaining authenticity, and achieving your dreams.

In this episode of "Performers," you will:

1. Learn the Power of Visualization: Discover how visualization techniques can mentally prepare you for challenges, enhancing focus and execution in critical moments.
2. Gain Insights into Emotional Resilience: Understand how balancing vulnerability with strength is crucial for emotional resilience.
3. Explore the Value of Persistence and Dedication: Learn how relentless pursuit of personal goals, despite setbacks, exemplifies dedication's role in achieving success.

Listen on Spotify: ⁠Spotify⁠

Listen on Apple: ⁠Apple⁠

Watch & Listen on YouTube: ⁠YouTube⁠

Support the authors: ⁠Up & Down by Bubba Watson & Don Yaeger

Socials:

X - ⁠https://twitter.com/SportPsychDunc⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @Performerspod ⁠https://www.instagram.com/performerspod/⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-simpson-ph-d-cmpc-76244b1a/⁠

⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-young-ph-d-cmpc-64765a35/⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:29 The Two Sides of Every Dream

04:11 The Power of Upbringing and Early Experiences

07:18 Variable Practice and Creative Problem-Solving

12:29 Long-Term Vision and Aligned Choices

17:11 Overcoming Criticism and Doubts

19:58 Finding the Right Equipment: The Impact on Performance

20:54 Technique: Adapting to Tactical Demands

27:04 Playing Against Adults: Challenges and Benefits

28:20 The College Experience: Shaping Bubba's Development

34:11 The Caddy Relationship: Trust and Support

36:53 Building a Personal Brand: 'Bubba from Baghdad'

38:27 Balancing Public Expectations and Authenticity

43:44 Navigating Emotional Challenges as an Athlete

51:02 Analyzing Bubba Watson's First Masters Win

01:01:29 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as an Elite Performer

01:05:36 Navigating the Pressures of Success

01:06:11 Maintaining Self-Belief and Managing Expectations

01:08:05 The Dangers of Rigid Internal Narratives

01:15:56 The Value of Relationships and Empathy in Coaching

01:17:08 Lessons to Avoid: Overconfidence, Neglecting Mental Health, and Relying on External Validation