Supporting Champions

129: Dan Abrahams on the psychology of team dynamics

In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, we're joined by Dan Abrahams, a highly respected sports psychologist known for his insightful and practical approach to team dynamics and performance psychology. Our discussion offers a deep dive into the psychological elements that are crucial for team success, making this episode a valuable listen for coaches, athletes, and leaders alike.
We explore a range of topics including the creation of environments that foster psychological development in teams, the intricate balance between focusing on individual players and the overall team, and the complexities of managing diverse personalities within a team setting. Additionally, we delve into tactical aspects such as strategies for maintaining a lead during a game or making adjustments when facing challenges.
This conversation with Dan Abrahams is packed with insights and strategies for anyone looking to understand and improve team dynamics and performance. Enjoy!
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-abrahams-b72a306/
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/DanAbrahams77 
Website: https://danabrahams.com/
 
ATHLETE NOW
The Supporting Champions Podcast is sponsored by Athlete Now, the innovative platform transforming how athletes and sports performance experts connect. With Athlete Now, navigate the complex world of sports excellence with ease. It's your hub for finding top-tier, rigorously vetted sports science, medicine, and coaching professionals tailored to your ambitions.
For professionals, Athlete Now is the beacon to highlight and harness your skills, directly linking you to those in need of your expertise. Say goodbye to obscurity and hello to impact.
Join Athlete Now for free as an athlete, or take advantage of the half-price introductory offer for practitioners: only £10 for the Foundation tier or £50 for the Professional tier with advanced features. Dive into a community dedicated to sporting success at theathletenow.com.
 
BLACK FRIDAY - 50% off Applied Courses
Use code CHAMPS50 at checkout
Offer ends 23rd November 2023
https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/#applied-pro-courses
Hi, I'm Steve Ingham Sports and Performance Scientist co-founder at Supporting Champions. I have the privilege of supporting over 1000 athletes of which over 200 have gone on to win World or Olympic medals. For the last 25 years I've been fascinated by, researched and applied innovative ideas to help people succeed  and now I want to share those performance strategies with you. 
I help aspiring and professional Performance Science and Support Staff improve their skills, experience and mindset for working with sports performers through a range of online courses and an exclusive community hub https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse
If you're working in sports performance or business and want to get support to develop your team and systems - take a look at what I offer here - https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/speaking/
Listen to the podcast https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/category/podcast/
LinksTwitter at https://twitter.com/ingham_steve
https://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampions
Supporting Champions on Twitter www.twitter.com/support_champs
Supporting Champions on Linkedin, www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-champions
https://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/
 
 
 

128: Ben Sporer on Output

In this episode, we're joined by Ben Sporer, a Canadian sports physiologist whose recent work challenges traditional notions of success in high-performance sports. His book introduces the concept of focusing on 'output'—the aspects of performance within our control—rather than 'outcome,' which is often subject to variables beyond our influence.
Throughout our conversation, Ben breaks down the components of output, including physiological indicators, performance metrics, and psychological states, and discusses their relevance to both athletes and coaches. He also offers insights into how these principles can be applied in broader contexts, such as personal growth and professional development.
Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of performance with Ben Sporer, where we discuss practical strategies for enhancing output and the implications of this approach for long-term success.
 
Links
Output book https://output-book.com/
Ben's Website https://resync.ca/
 
ATHLETE NOW
The Supporting Champions Podcast is sponsored by Athlete Now, the innovative platform transforming how athletes and sports performance experts connect. With Athlete Now, navigate the complex world of sports excellence with ease. It's your hub for finding top-tier, rigorously vetted sports science, medicine, and coaching professionals tailored to your ambitions.
For professionals, Athlete Now is the beacon to highlight and harness your skills, directly linking you to those in need of your expertise. Say goodbye to obscurity and hello to impact.
Join Athlete Now for free as an athlete, or take advantage of the half-price introductory offer for practitioners: only £10 for the Foundation tier or £50 for the Professional tier with advanced features. Dive into a community dedicated to sporting success at theathletenow.com.
 
BLACK FRIDAY - 50% off Applied Courses
Use code CHAMPS50 at checkout
Offer ends 23rd November 2023
https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/#applied-pro-courses
Hi, I'm Steve Ingham Sports and Performance Scientist co-founder at Supporting Champions. I have the privilege of supporting over 1000 athletes of which over 200 have gone on to win World or Olympic medals. For the last 25 years I've been fascinated by, researched and applied innovative ideas to help people succeed  and now I want to share those performance strategies with you. 
I help aspiring and professional Performance Science and Support Staff improve their skills, experience and mindset for working with sports performers through a range of online courses and an exclusive community hub https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse
If you're working in sports performance or business and want to get support to develop your team and systems - take a look at what I offer here - https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/speaking/
Listen to the podcast https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/category/podcast/
LinksTwitter at https://twitter.com/ingham_stevehttps://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampionsSupporting Champions on Twitter www.twitter.com/support_champsSupporting Champions on Linkedin, www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-championshttps://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/
 

127: Mustafa Sarkar on resilience

Today we're diving deep into a topic that's not just timely but also timeless: resilience. Our guest is Mustafa Sarkar, an expert in the psychology of resilience, particularly in the context of sports and high-performance environments.
Mustafa's work has been pivotal in helping us understand what resilience is—and perhaps just as importantly, what it isn't. Whether you're an athlete, a coach, or anyone striving for excellence, understanding the nuances of resilience can be a game-changer. 
In today's conversation, we'll explore the psychological elements that contribute to resilience, how these factors may vary among different roles within a sports setting, and the strategies that can be employed to build both individual and team resilience. We'll also discuss the role of environment, the importance of balancing support and challenge, and the future frontiers of resilience research.
So, if you're interested in building a more resilient mindset, either for yourself or for your team, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. 
 
Links 
Mus on Twitter https://twitter.com/MusSarkar
 
Hi, I'm Steve Ingham Sports and Performance Scientist co-founder at Supporting Champions. I have the privilege of supporting over 1000 athletes of which over 200 have gone on to win World or Olympic medals. For the last 25 years I've been fascinated by, researched and applied innovative ideas to help people succeed  and now I want to share those performance strategies with you. 
I help aspiring and professional Performance Science and Support Staff improve their skills, experience and mindset for working with sports performers through a range of online courses and an exclusive community hub https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse
If you're working in sports performance or business and want to get support to develop your team and systems - take a look at what I offer here - https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/speaking/
Listen to the podcast https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/category/podcast/
LinksTwitter at https://twitter.com/ingham_stevehttps://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampionsSupporting Champions on Twitter www.twitter.com/support_champsSupporting Champions on Linkedin, www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-championshttps://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/

126: Brad Schoenfeld on muscle growth and challenging practice with evidence

Today, we're venturing into the ever-evolving world of strength, power, and muscle growth. I'm thrilled to introduce our guest, Brad Schoenfeld, who hails from Lehman College  in New York and is a luminary in the field of strength and conditioning.
Brad is not just an academic, he is an applied scientist and advisor. But in his work he is true to the principles of science in that while he advises people based on sound principles, as evidenced in the literature, if that evidence evolves his advice evolves. 
His research has done just that so much so that some find the findings to be disruptive or challenging. His groundbreaking research has been shaking up long-held beliefs and sparking animated debates among athletes, coaches, and scientists alike. If you've ever questioned the conventional wisdom around strength training, today's episode is your gateway to the latest evidence-based practices.
We'll be navigating through the shifts that have occurred in strength and conditioning research over the past 15 years, the controversies that have emerged, and the practical implications for athletes across various disciplines. We'll also delve into the nitty-gritty of training mechanisms and session structures.
I’m excited for you to benefit from this episode whether you are looking to adapt your training or tune into how a scientist is driving development in a field.
 
Links
Brad on twitter https://twitter.com/BradSchoenfeld
Brad's website: https://www.lookgreatnaked.com/blog/
 
 
Hi, I'm Steve Ingham Sports and Performance Scientist co-founder at Supporting Champions. I have the privilege of supporting over 1000 athletes of which over 200 have gone on to win World or Olympic medals. For the last 25 years I've been fascinated by, researched and applied innovative ideas to help people succeed  and now I want to share those performance strategies with you. 
I help aspiring and professional Performance Science and Support Staff improve their skills, experience and mindset for working with sports performers through a range of online courses and an exclusive community hub https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse
If you're working in sports performance or business and want to get support to develop your team and systems - take a look at what I offer here - https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/speaking/
Listen to the podcast https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/category/podcast/
LinksTwitter at https://twitter.com/ingham_stevehttps://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampionsSupporting Champions on Twitter www.twitter.com/support_champsSupporting Champions on Linkedin, www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-championshttps://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/
 

125: Sophia Jowett on the coach - athlete relationship

Please take the time to fill in our survey about performance staff skills https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/skills/
 
In today’s episode we’re exploring a topic that sits at the very heart of performance, yet is often overlooked: the coach-athlete relationship. And I couldn't think of anyone better to discuss this with than our guest, Sophia Jowett. 
Sophia is a leading expert in the field, known for her extensive research and innovative models that explore the dynamics between coaches and athletes. She's got a knack for breaking down complex ideas into memorable acronyms and alliterations, making the science not just accessible but also unforgettable.
We'll be delving into how the landscape of coaching has evolved over the years, the psychological underpinnings of a successful coach-athlete relationship, and even the challenges and conflicts that can arise. We'll also touch on the broader implications of her work, including parallels in the business world and the evolving role of coaches.
This is essential listening for anyone working with coaches and athletes!
 
Follow Sophia on Twitter https://twitter.com/JowettSophia
 
Hi, I'm Steve Ingham Sports and Performance Scientist co-founder at Supporting Champions. I have the privilege of supporting over 1000 athletes of which over 200 have gone on to win World or Olympic medals. For the last 25 years I've been fascinated by, researched and applied innovative ideas to help people succeed  and now I want to share those performance strategies with you. 
I help aspiring and professional Performance Science and Support Staff improve their skills, experience and mindset for working with sports performers through a range of online courses and an exclusive community hub https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse
If you're working in sports performance or business and want to get support to develop your team and systems - take a look at what I offer here - https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/speaking/
Listen to the podcast https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/category/podcast/
LinksTwitter at https://twitter.com/ingham_stevehttps://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampionsSupporting Champions on Twitter www.twitter.com/support_champsSupporting Champions on Linkedin, www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-championshttps://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/

124: David Slemen on recruiting staff into performance teams

"PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO FILL IN OUR SKILLS SURVEY"
https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/skills/
 
Welcome back to the podcast proper!
In this week's episode, we're tackling a subject that's crucial but often not given the attention it deserves: the recruitment process within high-performance teams. Our guest, David Slemen, is uniquely qualified to shed light on this topic.
David is the founder of Elite Performance Partners, a consultancy that specializes in identifying and placing exceptional talent in performance-driven environments. With a rich background in professional rugby and a deep understanding of team dynamics, David has become a sought-after expert for organizations looking to build or enhance their performance teams.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in sports, business, or any field where team performance is a key factor. We'll explore practical, real-world insights into how to identify the right talent, integrate them effectively into your team, and foster a culture that attracts and sustains excellence.
Don't miss this invaluable conversation that could very well change the way you approach building your team for success.
 
Links
Elite Performance Partners: EPP
https://eppglobal.com/
 
Hi, I'm Steve Ingham Sports and Performance Scientist co-founder at Supporting Champions. I have the privilege of supporting over 1000 athletes of which over 200 have gone on to win World or Olympic medals. For the last 25 years I've been fascinated by, researched and applied innovative ideas to help people succeed  and now I want to share those performance strategies with you. 
I help aspiring and professional Performance Science and Support Staff improve their skills, experience and mindset for working with sports performers through a range of online courses and an exclusive community hub https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse
If you're working in sports performance or business and want to get support to develop your team and systems - take a look at what I offer here - https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/speaking/
 
LinksTwitter at https://twitter.com/ingham_stevehttps://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampionsSupporting Champions on Twitter www.twitter.com/support_champsSupporting Champions on Linkedin, www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-championshttps://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/
 

What it takes to work well in sport: I discuss our major new survey with Jamie Pringle

This week we're launching a major new survey. We've teamed up with Jamie Pringle to create one of the must comprehensive surveys about "what it takes to be successful as support practitioner". Please take 30 mins of your time to contribute to the survey. SURVEY 
*** Academics, Professionals and Students - WE NEED YOU TO HELP US HELP THE INDUSTRY!***
In this discussion, Jamie and I talk through what the survey is, why we are working on it, how we believe it will help create clarity for those recruiting, developing and training the next generation of performance professionals and likewise how it will help the students of today, who will become professionals and leaders of our industry tomorrow.
Summary
🔍 A skills survey is being conducted to understand the qualifications and abilities valued by employers in the sport and exercise science industry, as well as the effectiveness of educational programs in preparing graduates for the workforce.
Highlights
📚 The survey aims to capture insights from industry professionals, educators, and students to improve the development and readiness of graduates entering the workforce.
💼 Work-based learning and vocational skills were identified as crucial for successful employment in the industry.
🤝 Collaboration between industry and education is emphasized to ensure curriculum aligns with industry requirements.
🎯 The survey results will provide clarity on the skills and qualities sought by employers and help inform recruitment and curriculum planning.
👥 All industry professionals, educators, and students in the sport and exercise science field are encouraged to contribute to the survey to provide valuable insights for the future of the industry.
PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT TO FILL THE SURVEY IN
All survey respondents will receive the headlines from the 2108 survey and have an option for the full report and follow up resources. We're also presenting the findings of the skills survey at the 2023 BASES conference
 
The podcast returns to normal service next week!

123: Michael Johnson on serial winning, challenges and preparing to peak

This week’s guest is Michael Johnson.
Michael will not need an introduction to many of you, but for those who are not aware of one of the greatest athletes of all time and for those who want a recap here are a few highlights. Michael has won gold medals in 200, 400m and 4 x 400 at the Goodwill games. He took gold medals at the 1991, 1993, 1995, 1997, 1999 World Championships and golds the 1992, 1996 and 2000 Olympics Games. Unforgettably, Michael broke the world 200m record in an astonishing time of 19.32 s at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996, having a few days before won the 400m title. Michael also broke the world 400m record in the Seville World Championship final in a time of 43.18. Those records stood for 14 and 17 years respectively.
Since Michael retired he is familiar to many as a commentator and pundit for athletics, where he offers great depth, perceptive insight, challenge and clarity of thought about performance. He is also an entrepreneur, running Michael Johnson Performance, providing speed, agility and injury prevention support to elite teams.
In this discussion we of course talk about all of these things, Michael’s athletic career, as well as how he’s how cultured insights into how people perform, where he thinks athletics is going, and his work in business.
As you’d expect Michael brings rich insight to all of these.
I hope you enjoy the conversation!
 
***We're taking a short break from the podcast. I hope you're enjoyed the series***
 
Links
https://www.mj-gold.com/
https://www.michaeljohnsonperformance.com/
 
 
Twitter at https://twitter.com/ingham_steve
Supporting Champions on Twitter www.twitter.com/support_champs
Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampions
Supporting Champions on Linkedin, www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-champions
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/
 
 

122: Nigel Adkins on the demands on the modern football manager

This week's guest is Nigel Adkins. Nigel is a former professional football player, coach and manager. He's also trained as a physiotherapist, so not only does he have experience of playing coaching but also has been part of the backroom staff too.
Nigel is sharing, describing, and supporting others through the demands placed upon modern managers. He is passionate about helping others realise that the managers identity, worth and health should not necessarily be impacted upon due to the role of coaching at the top end.
However Nigel does describe the prevailing philosophy in football clubs being that if they don't win the manager is likely to get sacked. We get into this in the conversation and discuss what you can do and take ownership for, the right and wrongs of this approach and what might help you as a modern manager thrive in this world where you might not have much time to do your best work.
 
Links
 
Twitter at https://twitter.com/ingham_steve
Supporting Champions on Twitter www.twitter.com/support_champs
Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampions
Supporting Champions on Linkedin, www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-champions
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/
 
 

121: Brendan Cropley and Zoe Knowles on Reflective Practice

This week’s guests are Zoe Knowles and Brendan Cropley
Zoe is a Professor of Engagement and Learning at Liverpool John Moores University and Brendan is Professor of Sport Coaching at University of South Wales; and both are sports psychologists by trade.
They are also pioneers for reflective practice in sport and have been moving this field forward together with a band of researchers and applied scientists and they’ve recently released the 2nd Ed of Reflective Practice in the Sport and Exercise Sciences.
In this discussion we get into the value that reflection brings, the evidence of whether reflecting enhances your performance, some potential downsides of reflection, whether personality type or biases effect how one engages with reflection, the potential effects of reflective practice on mental health. Of course we explore different models of reflection and Zoe and Brendan take you through a fuller reflective cycle and a shorter, snappier version - which gets us on how, when and under what circumstances you might reflect.
Download the reflective practice worksheet and use for yourself.
Links
Zoe on Twitter https://twitter.com/SpExPsych
Brendan on Twitter https://twitter.com/BrendanCropley
Reflective Practice in the Sport and Exercise Sciences book https://www.routledge.com/Reflective-Practice-in-the-Sport-and-Exercise-Sciences-Critical-Perspectives/Cropley-Knowles-Miles-Huntley/p/book/9781032056944
 
If you want to develop your applied performance science impact take a look at our courses for S&C, psychology, nutrition, physiology (with me), performance analysis
Use code APPLIED2023 for £50 off (limited number of discounts - only a few places left)
Use the code for £50 off any Applied Pro courses
https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/#appliedpro
 
Links Twitter at https://twitter.com/ingham_steve
Supporting Champions on Twitter www.twitter.com/support_champs
Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@supportingchampions
Supporting Champions on Linkedin, www.linkedin.com/company/supporting-champions Instagram https://www.instagram.com/supportingchampions/