University of Staffordshire's Performing Under Pressure Podcast https://podcast.sport-social.co.uk/podcast/staffordshire-universitys-performing-under-pressure-podcast/ en Dr Paul Mansell The need to perform under pressure in sport is ubiquitous. At University of Staffordshire, we use our expertise in high performance to delve into the psyche of individuals connected to sport to understand how they are able to perform well when the stakes are high. We interview athletes from a variety of sports, sport psychologists, coaches and more to provide a variety of perspectives on coping under pressure, strategies that are effective immediately prior to performance and how they react adaptively to mistakes. https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/1a79b4d0-b08c-11ee-a518-df3670869bcc/image/eebe7960df270e16e849ff37469718ba.png?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress University of Staffordshire's Performing Under Pressure Podcast https://podcast.sport-social.co.uk/podcast/staffordshire-universitys-performing-under-pressure-podcast/ episodic Dr Paul Mansell The need to perform under pressure in sport is ubiquitous. At University of Staffordshire, we use our expertise in high performance to delve into the psyche of individuals connected to sport to understand how they are able to perform well when the stakes are high. We interview athletes from a variety of sports, sport psychologists, coaches and more to provide a variety of perspectives on coping under pressure, strategies that are effective immediately prior to performance and how they react adaptively to mistakes. The need to perform under pressure in sport is ubiquitous. At University of Staffordshire, we use our expertise in high performance to delve into the psyche of individuals connected to sport to understand how they are able to perform well when the stakes are high. We interview athletes from a variety of sports, sport psychologists, coaches and more to provide a variety of perspectives on coping under pressure, strategies that are effective immediately prior to performance and how they react adaptively to mistakes.

]]> Dr Paul Mansell paul.mansell@staffs.ac.uk EP107: Conor Niland (Former Professional Tennis Player) Conor Niland is a former professional tennis player who reached a career high ranking of 129 in the world. He competed at Wimbledon, the Australian Open, and the US Open, where he faced Novak Djokovic. In 2024, his book “The Racket” won the William Hill Sports Book of the year. In the book, he described in detail that life on the tour is not always glamourous as we might imagine. .. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks ask Conor to reflect on the psychology behind his career, such as how he dealt with setbacks, the psychological skills that he used on court, and managing relationships with other professionals on the tour. Conor also explains the role of identity in tennis and what advice he would give to his younger self about performing under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Conor Niland is a former professional tennis player who reached a career high ranking of 129 in the world. He competed at Wimbledon, the Australian Open, and the US Open, where he faced Novak Djokovic. In 2024, his book “The Racket” won the William Hill Sports Book of the year. In the book, he described in detail that life on the tour is not always glamourous as we might imagine. .. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks ask Conor to reflect on the psychology behind his career, such as how he dealt with setbacks, the psychological skills that he used on court, and managing relationships with other professionals on the tour. Conor also explains the role of identity in tennis and what advice he would give to his younger self about performing under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Conor Niland is a former professional tennis player who reached a career high ranking of 129 in the world. He competed at Wimbledon, the Australian Open, and the US Open, where he faced Novak Djokovic. In 2024, his book “The Racket” won the William Hill Sports Book of the year. In the book, he described in detail that life on the tour is not always glamourous as we might imagine. ..

In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks ask Conor to reflect on the psychology behind his career, such as how he dealt with setbacks, the psychological skills that he used on court, and managing relationships with other professionals on the tour. Conor also explains the role of identity in tennis and what advice he would give to his younger self about performing under pressure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4280 no EP106: Maria Bertelli OLY (Professional Athlete and Coach) Maria Bertelli is a former elite footballer and volleyball player. She played football for clubs such as Charlton Athletic, reading the Women's FA Cup final in 2007. Maria also represented Team GB at the London 2012 Olympic Games, and has since gone on to coach volleyball at the University of Derby and for Darkstar. In this episode, she outlines how she coped, and continues to cope, with the demands of life in elite sport. Maria tells hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jason Wright about her views on effective leadership, social support in top-level sport, and why having a sport psychologist was so valuable to her. Maria focuses on controllable factors and she reveals her psychological toolkit that facilitated her performance under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:40:00 -0000 full 3 6 Dr Paul Mansell Maria Bertelli is a former elite footballer and volleyball player. She played football for clubs such as Charlton Athletic, reading the Women's FA Cup final in 2007. Maria also represented Team GB at the London 2012 Olympic Games, and has since gone on to coach volleyball at the University of Derby and for Darkstar. In this episode, she outlines how she coped, and continues to cope, with the demands of life in elite sport. Maria tells hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jason Wright about her views on effective leadership, social support in top-level sport, and why having a sport psychologist was so valuable to her. Maria focuses on controllable factors and she reveals her psychological toolkit that facilitated her performance under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Maria Bertelli is a former elite footballer and volleyball player. She played football for clubs such as Charlton Athletic, reading the Women's FA Cup final in 2007. Maria also represented Team GB at the London 2012 Olympic Games, and has since gone on to coach volleyball at the University of Derby and for Darkstar.

In this episode, she outlines how she coped, and continues to cope, with the demands of life in elite sport. Maria tells hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jason Wright about her views on effective leadership, social support in top-level sport, and why having a sport psychologist was so valuable to her. Maria focuses on controllable factors and she reveals her psychological toolkit that facilitated her performance under pressure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4266 no EP105: Mikele Leigertwood (Reading FC First Team Coach) Mikele Leigertwood has held a number of roles at Reading FC. He made over 100 appearances for them as a player and was part of the team that secured promotion to the Premier League in 2012. Since then, he has held the roles of Academy Loans Manager and First Team Coach. As a player, Mikele also represented Wimbledon, Crystal Palace, Sheffield United and QPR, as well as winning 11 caps for Antigua and Barbuda, whom he also coached earlier this decade. In this episode, Mikele is quizzed by his colleague - fellow First Team Coach Danny Schofield - on how he managed pressure during his playing career, and the lessons he has learnt in terms of leading others to perform on a matchday. Mikele reflects on how he likes to be led and what a culture of high challenge/high support looks like at Reading. Mikele also explains the characteristics of an effective team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:47:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Mikele Leigertwood has held a number of roles at Reading FC. He made over 100 appearances for them as a player and was part of the team that secured promotion to the Premier League in 2012. Since then, he has held the roles of Academy Loans Manager and First Team Coach. As a player, Mikele also represented Wimbledon, Crystal Palace, Sheffield United and QPR, as well as winning 11 caps for Antigua and Barbuda, whom he also coached earlier this decade. In this episode, Mikele is quizzed by his colleague - fellow First Team Coach Danny Schofield - on how he managed pressure during his playing career, and the lessons he has learnt in terms of leading others to perform on a matchday. Mikele reflects on how he likes to be led and what a culture of high challenge/high support looks like at Reading. Mikele also explains the characteristics of an effective team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Mikele Leigertwood has held a number of roles at Reading FC. He made over 100 appearances for them as a player and was part of the team that secured promotion to the Premier League in 2012. Since then, he has held the roles of Academy Loans Manager and First Team Coach. As a player, Mikele also represented Wimbledon, Crystal Palace, Sheffield United and QPR, as well as winning 11 caps for Antigua and Barbuda, whom he also coached earlier this decade.

In this episode, Mikele is quizzed by his colleague - fellow First Team Coach Danny Schofield - on how he managed pressure during his playing career, and the lessons he has learnt in terms of leading others to perform on a matchday. Mikele reflects on how he likes to be led and what a culture of high challenge/high support looks like at Reading. Mikele also explains the characteristics of an effective team.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3615 no EP104: Kane Hemmings (Barrow AFC Striker) Kane Hemmings is approaching 500 appearances in professional football, and has scored over 160 goals for clubs including Rangers, Dundee, Tranmere Rovers, Oxford United, and Mansfield Town. In this episode, he explains to Dr Paul Mansell and Brandon Walsh how he likes to be led so that he can perform at his best. Kane also provides great detail as to how he prepares and executes penalties. The trio reflect on the need to accept pressure, and how psychology can play an integral role in recovering from serious injuries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:45:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Kane Hemmings is approaching 500 appearances in professional football, and has scored over 160 goals for clubs including Rangers, Dundee, Tranmere Rovers, Oxford United, and Mansfield Town. In this episode, he explains to Dr Paul Mansell and Brandon Walsh how he likes to be led so that he can perform at his best. Kane also provides great detail as to how he prepares and executes penalties. The trio reflect on the need to accept pressure, and how psychology can play an integral role in recovering from serious injuries. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Kane Hemmings is approaching 500 appearances in professional football, and has scored over 160 goals for clubs including Rangers, Dundee, Tranmere Rovers, Oxford United, and Mansfield Town.

In this episode, he explains to Dr Paul Mansell and Brandon Walsh how he likes to be led so that he can perform at his best. Kane also provides great detail as to how he prepares and executes penalties. The trio reflect on the need to accept pressure, and how psychology can play an integral role in recovering from serious injuries.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4053 EP103: Dr Catarina Morais (Sport Psychologist) Dr Catarina Morais is a Sport Psychologist and a Lecturer in the Faculty of Education and Psychology at Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto. In this international episode, she shares her insights from her applied experiences with athletes as well as her research. Catarina describes the essential skills that should be prioritised by sport psychologists such as having a constant awareness of their own beliefs and assumptions. She explains how irrational beliefs can undermine performance and how there might be a more favourable emotional profile that can help athletes to deal with stress. Catarina also outlines her views on leadership, including revealing the leader from her childhood who continues to influence her to this day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:06:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Dr Catarina Morais is a Sport Psychologist and a Lecturer in the Faculty of Education and Psychology at Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto. In this international episode, she shares her insights from her applied experiences with athletes as well as her research. Catarina describes the essential skills that should be prioritised by sport psychologists such as having a constant awareness of their own beliefs and assumptions. She explains how irrational beliefs can undermine performance and how there might be a more favourable emotional profile that can help athletes to deal with stress. Catarina also outlines her views on leadership, including revealing the leader from her childhood who continues to influence her to this day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Catarina Morais is a Sport Psychologist and a Lecturer in the Faculty of Education and Psychology at Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto. In this international episode, she shares her insights from her applied experiences with athletes as well as her research.

Catarina describes the essential skills that should be prioritised by sport psychologists such as having a constant awareness of their own beliefs and assumptions. She explains how irrational beliefs can undermine performance and how there might be a more favourable emotional profile that can help athletes to deal with stress. Catarina also outlines her views on leadership, including revealing the leader from her childhood who continues to influence her to this day.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4212 no EP102: Lewis Warrington (Tranmere Midfielder) Lewis Warrington came through Everton's academy and made his Premier League debut in 2024. Since then, he has represented Tranmere Rovers, Plymouth, and Leyton Orient before singing for Walsall for the 2025/26 season. At the time of recording, Lewis was still at Walsall, but the 23-year old has since re-joined Tranmere Rovers. In this episode, Lewis explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jack McMillan what it was like to make his debut at Goodison Park, and how he navigated loan spells early in his career. Jack asks Lewis to reflect on authenticity and honest conversations, and what the common fears are that young players might have. We discuss how Lewis deals with mistakes and setbacks, and what he does on a daily basis to put himself in the right frame of mind to perform well. Lewis reveals how he likes to be led and what are the ingredients that make a good dressing room culture. We also ask Lewis to speak about his business ventures, and how they are helping him on and off the pitch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:39:00 -0000 full 3 2 Dr Paul Mansell Lewis Warrington came through Everton's academy and made his Premier League debut in 2024. Since then, he has represented Tranmere Rovers, Plymouth, and Leyton Orient before singing for Walsall for the 2025/26 season. At the time of recording, Lewis was still at Walsall, but the 23-year old has since re-joined Tranmere Rovers. In this episode, Lewis explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jack McMillan what it was like to make his debut at Goodison Park, and how he navigated loan spells early in his career. Jack asks Lewis to reflect on authenticity and honest conversations, and what the common fears are that young players might have. We discuss how Lewis deals with mistakes and setbacks, and what he does on a daily basis to put himself in the right frame of mind to perform well. Lewis reveals how he likes to be led and what are the ingredients that make a good dressing room culture. We also ask Lewis to speak about his business ventures, and how they are helping him on and off the pitch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lewis Warrington came through Everton's academy and made his Premier League debut in 2024. Since then, he has represented Tranmere Rovers, Plymouth, and Leyton Orient before singing for Walsall for the 2025/26 season. At the time of recording, Lewis was still at Walsall, but the 23-year old has since re-joined Tranmere Rovers.

In this episode, Lewis explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jack McMillan what it was like to make his debut at Goodison Park, and how he navigated loan spells early in his career. Jack asks Lewis to reflect on authenticity and honest conversations, and what the common fears are that young players might have. We discuss how Lewis deals with mistakes and setbacks, and what he does on a daily basis to put himself in the right frame of mind to perform well. Lewis reveals how he likes to be led and what are the ingredients that make a good dressing room culture.

We also ask Lewis to speak about his business ventures, and how they are helping him on and off the pitch.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4302 no EP101: Krystian Pearce (Former Professional Footballer) Krystian Pearce is an experienced former professional footballer. He has made over 600 appearances in his career for clubs such as Mansfield Town, Notts County, and Port Vale, having begun his career in Birmingham City’s academy. Krystian has also represented England at U17 and U19 level, and starred in the U17 World Cup in 2007. Known as Chief, the Birmingham-born defender also has 13 caps for Barbados. In this episode, Krystian discusses a range of topics with hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jake Jervis. With questions mainly set by our listeners, we ask Krystian to reflect on what he was like as a young player and what he would do differently if he could have his time again. Krystian speaks about how he has achieved longevity in his career, and what he considers the hallmarks of effective leadership to be. He also weighs up what his options are with the next stage of his career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 26 Feb 2026 06:36:00 -0000 full 3 1 Dr Paul Mansell Krystian Pearce is an experienced former professional footballer. He has made over 600 appearances in his career for clubs such as Mansfield Town, Notts County, and Port Vale, having begun his career in Birmingham City’s academy. Krystian has also represented England at U17 and U19 level, and starred in the U17 World Cup in 2007. Known as Chief, the Birmingham-born defender also has 13 caps for Barbados. In this episode, Krystian discusses a range of topics with hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jake Jervis. With questions mainly set by our listeners, we ask Krystian to reflect on what he was like as a young player and what he would do differently if he could have his time again. Krystian speaks about how he has achieved longevity in his career, and what he considers the hallmarks of effective leadership to be. He also weighs up what his options are with the next stage of his career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Krystian Pearce is an experienced former professional footballer. He has made over 600 appearances in his career for clubs such as Mansfield Town, Notts County, and Port Vale, having begun his career in Birmingham City’s academy. Krystian has also represented England at U17 and U19 level, and starred in the U17 World Cup in 2007. Known as Chief, the Birmingham-born defender also has 13 caps for Barbados.

In this episode, Krystian discusses a range of topics with hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jake Jervis. With questions mainly set by our listeners, we ask Krystian to reflect on what he was like as a young player and what he would do differently if he could have his time again. Krystian speaks about how he has achieved longevity in his career, and what he considers the hallmarks of effective leadership to be. He also weighs up what his options are with the next stage of his career.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3845 no EP100: Conor Coady (England International) For our landmark 100th episode, it is a pleasure to welcome Conor Coady to the show. Conor is the former captain of Wolverhampton Wanderers and made over 300 appearances for the club, leading the newly promoted side to back-to-back 7th placed finishes in 2019 and 2020. Conor began his career at Liverpool and has represented Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town, Everton, Leicester and Wrexham. He is currently on loan at Charlton Athletic. Conor also has 10 caps for England and was selected in the Euros 2021 and the World Cup 2022 squads. In this episode, we discuss how Conor likes to prepare himself to perform under pressure, the characteristics of a good dressing room, and he reveals which coach has got the best out of him in his career. We focus on leadership, and Conor takes us into the England camps he experienced under Gareth Southgate, sharing what it was about his leadership that built togetherness in the squad. We also hear reflections on the leadership of Harry Kane and Ruben Neves, while Conor dispels some myths about footballers that we might hear on the terraces. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:26:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell For our landmark 100th episode, it is a pleasure to welcome Conor Coady to the show. Conor is the former captain of Wolverhampton Wanderers and made over 300 appearances for the club, leading the newly promoted side to back-to-back 7th placed finishes in 2019 and 2020. Conor began his career at Liverpool and has represented Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town, Everton, Leicester and Wrexham. He is currently on loan at Charlton Athletic. Conor also has 10 caps for England and was selected in the Euros 2021 and the World Cup 2022 squads. In this episode, we discuss how Conor likes to prepare himself to perform under pressure, the characteristics of a good dressing room, and he reveals which coach has got the best out of him in his career. We focus on leadership, and Conor takes us into the England camps he experienced under Gareth Southgate, sharing what it was about his leadership that built togetherness in the squad. We also hear reflections on the leadership of Harry Kane and Ruben Neves, while Conor dispels some myths about footballers that we might hear on the terraces. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices For our landmark 100th episode, it is a pleasure to welcome Conor Coady to the show. Conor is the former captain of Wolverhampton Wanderers and made over 300 appearances for the club, leading the newly promoted side to back-to-back 7th placed finishes in 2019 and 2020. Conor began his career at Liverpool and has represented Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town, Everton, Leicester and Wrexham. He is currently on loan at Charlton Athletic. Conor also has 10 caps for England and was selected in the Euros 2021 and the World Cup 2022 squads.

In this episode, we discuss how Conor likes to prepare himself to perform under pressure, the characteristics of a good dressing room, and he reveals which coach has got the best out of him in his career. We focus on leadership, and Conor takes us into the England camps he experienced under Gareth Southgate, sharing what it was about his leadership that built togetherness in the squad. We also hear reflections on the leadership of Harry Kane and Ruben Neves, while Conor dispels some myths about footballers that we might hear on the terraces.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4310 no EP99: Dr Mel Morrison (Educational and Child Psychologist) Dr Mel Morrison is a HCPC registered Educational and Child Psychologist. Also known as ‘The Sporty Ed Psych’, Mel completed her Doctorate in Applied Educational and Child Psychology at the University of Birmingham in 2023, and she now works as an Educational and Child Psychologist for Walsall Council. In the episode, hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson de Domene ask Mel to reflect on her work in supporting young people in educational settings. What does an average day look like in this field, and how does Mel support neurodivergent children? What makes adolescence a period of 'storm and stress', and what does this mean? Mel is also an "everyday athlete" and trains intensely with a coach leading to her competing in Hyrox events. Paul and Laura ask Mel to explain the psychological skills and strategies that enable her to train and perform well, and how this evolved over the years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 12 Feb 2026 06:33:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Dr Mel Morrison is a HCPC registered Educational and Child Psychologist. Also known as ‘The Sporty Ed Psych’, Mel completed her Doctorate in Applied Educational and Child Psychology at the University of Birmingham in 2023, and she now works as an Educational and Child Psychologist for Walsall Council. In the episode, hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson de Domene ask Mel to reflect on her work in supporting young people in educational settings. What does an average day look like in this field, and how does Mel support neurodivergent children? What makes adolescence a period of 'storm and stress', and what does this mean? Mel is also an "everyday athlete" and trains intensely with a coach leading to her competing in Hyrox events. Paul and Laura ask Mel to explain the psychological skills and strategies that enable her to train and perform well, and how this evolved over the years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Mel Morrison is a HCPC registered Educational and Child Psychologist. Also known as ‘The Sporty Ed Psych’, Mel completed her Doctorate in Applied Educational and Child Psychology at the University of Birmingham in 2023, and she now works as an Educational and Child Psychologist for Walsall Council.


In the episode, hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson de Domene ask Mel to reflect on her work in supporting young people in educational settings. What does an average day look like in this field, and how does Mel support neurodivergent children? What makes adolescence a period of 'storm and stress', and what does this mean?

Mel is also an "everyday athlete" and trains intensely with a coach leading to her competing in Hyrox events. Paul and Laura ask Mel to explain the psychological skills and strategies that enable her to train and perform well, and how this evolved over the years.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4600 no EP98: Paul Anderson (Derby County U15 Head Coach) Paul Anderson is the Head Coach of Derby County's Under 15 side. He is also a former footballer having signed his first professional contract with Liverpool, where he won the FA Youth Cup in 2006. It was with Nottingham Forest and Ipswich Town where he most made his mark as he made over 300 professional appearances. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Sam Westley quiz Paul on his experiences as a player and as a coach. How did Paul react when West Bromwich Albion told him that he wouldn't make it as a Premier League player? Who were the players that Paul admired in terms of their ability to perform under pressure? Which managers got the best out of Paul and why? Paul also offers his suggestions for how we can best support young players as they navigate the challenges of academy football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 05 Feb 2026 06:18:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Paul Anderson is the Head Coach of Derby County's Under 15 side. He is also a former footballer having signed his first professional contract with Liverpool, where he won the FA Youth Cup in 2006. It was with Nottingham Forest and Ipswich Town where he most made his mark as he made over 300 professional appearances. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Sam Westley quiz Paul on his experiences as a player and as a coach. How did Paul react when West Bromwich Albion told him that he wouldn't make it as a Premier League player? Who were the players that Paul admired in terms of their ability to perform under pressure? Which managers got the best out of Paul and why? Paul also offers his suggestions for how we can best support young players as they navigate the challenges of academy football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Paul Anderson is the Head Coach of Derby County's Under 15 side. He is also a former footballer having signed his first professional contract with Liverpool, where he won the FA Youth Cup in 2006. It was with Nottingham Forest and Ipswich Town where he most made his mark as he made over 300 professional appearances.

In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Sam Westley quiz Paul on his experiences as a player and as a coach. How did Paul react when West Bromwich Albion told him that he wouldn't make it as a Premier League player? Who were the players that Paul admired in terms of their ability to perform under pressure? Which managers got the best out of Paul and why? Paul also offers his suggestions for how we can best support young players as they navigate the challenges of academy football.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3812 no EP97: David Wheeler (Sport Psychologist-in-Training and Former Professional Footballer) David Wheeler amassed over 600 appearances in his football career, representing clubs such as Exeter City, Wycombe Wanderers, and Queens Park Rangers. Since retiring, he has begun his formal training to become an accredited sport psychologist, building on his Masters degree. In this episode, Reading first team coach Danny Schofield joins host Dr Paul Mansell to quiz David on his perceptions of performing under pressure. Danny acts David to reflect on his experiences as an academy footballer and how he coped with rejection from Brighton. David explains the term 'diversification of identity', and how an athletic identity may become all-consuming. We explore what it is like to play at Wembley, and how imagery might be useful to prepare for a big occasion. David also outlines his plans for the future including the approach he hopes to adopt as a sport psychologist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 29 Jan 2026 06:59:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell David Wheeler amassed over 600 appearances in his football career, representing clubs such as Exeter City, Wycombe Wanderers, and Queens Park Rangers. Since retiring, he has begun his formal training to become an accredited sport psychologist, building on his Masters degree. In this episode, Reading first team coach Danny Schofield joins host Dr Paul Mansell to quiz David on his perceptions of performing under pressure. Danny acts David to reflect on his experiences as an academy footballer and how he coped with rejection from Brighton. David explains the term 'diversification of identity', and how an athletic identity may become all-consuming. We explore what it is like to play at Wembley, and how imagery might be useful to prepare for a big occasion. David also outlines his plans for the future including the approach he hopes to adopt as a sport psychologist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices David Wheeler amassed over 600 appearances in his football career, representing clubs such as Exeter City, Wycombe Wanderers, and Queens Park Rangers. Since retiring, he has begun his formal training to become an accredited sport psychologist, building on his Masters degree.

In this episode, Reading first team coach Danny Schofield joins host Dr Paul Mansell to quiz David on his perceptions of performing under pressure. Danny acts David to reflect on his experiences as an academy footballer and how he coped with rejection from Brighton. David explains the term 'diversification of identity', and how an athletic identity may become all-consuming. We explore what it is like to play at Wembley, and how imagery might be useful to prepare for a big occasion. David also outlines his plans for the future including the approach he hopes to adopt as a sport psychologist.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3691 no EP96: Dr Jonathan Katz and Matt McKeen Dr Jonathan Katz is a Consultant Psychologist with 39 years experience of support provision within psychiatric settings and has supported athletes, coaches and support staff at major championships. His experience includes supporting Olympic and Paralympic athletes including at several Summer and Winter Paralympic Games. He was also the Head Coach of Team England at 5 Commonwealth Fencing Championships. Jonathan is joined in the studio by Matt McKeen. Matt is training to be a sport psychologist under Jonathan's supervision, and is also completing a PhD at Loughborough University. In this episode, we focus on the relationship between a supervisor and supervisee. Jonathan explains the thrive-manage-survive model and how he uses this to support athletes' mental health. We also hear from Matt about his recently published research on the mental health of sports officials. Jonathan and Matt reflect on the use of REBT in applied settings and both offer interesting definitions as to how they would define performing under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 22 Jan 2026 06:47:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Dr Jonathan Katz is a Consultant Psychologist with 39 years experience of support provision within psychiatric settings and has supported athletes, coaches and support staff at major championships. His experience includes supporting Olympic and Paralympic athletes including at several Summer and Winter Paralympic Games. He was also the Head Coach of Team England at 5 Commonwealth Fencing Championships. Jonathan is joined in the studio by Matt McKeen. Matt is training to be a sport psychologist under Jonathan's supervision, and is also completing a PhD at Loughborough University. In this episode, we focus on the relationship between a supervisor and supervisee. Jonathan explains the thrive-manage-survive model and how he uses this to support athletes' mental health. We also hear from Matt about his recently published research on the mental health of sports officials. Jonathan and Matt reflect on the use of REBT in applied settings and both offer interesting definitions as to how they would define performing under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Jonathan Katz is a Consultant Psychologist with 39 years experience of support provision within psychiatric settings and has supported athletes, coaches and support staff at major championships. His experience includes supporting Olympic and Paralympic athletes including at several Summer and Winter Paralympic Games. He was also the Head Coach of Team England at 5 Commonwealth Fencing Championships. Jonathan is joined in the studio by Matt McKeen. Matt is training to be a sport psychologist under Jonathan's supervision, and is also completing a PhD at Loughborough University.

In this episode, we focus on the relationship between a supervisor and supervisee. Jonathan explains the thrive-manage-survive model and how he uses this to support athletes' mental health. We also hear from Matt about his recently published research on the mental health of sports officials. Jonathan and Matt reflect on the use of REBT in applied settings and both offer interesting definitions as to how they would define performing under pressure.

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]]> 5761 no EP95: Dr Sara Mesquita (Sport Psychologist for FC Porto Women) In this special international episode, we welcomed Dr Sara Mesquita into our studio at the University of Staffordshire. Having previously been the sport psychologist for FC Porto's U19 as they reached the top, she now works with the women's team as they begin their quest to reach the Champions League. Sara is also a Lecturer at the University of Porto. Speaking to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Karla Drew, Sara explains the role of togetherness in a high performing team and the traits that are typical of elite footballers. We discuss some of Sara's research, as well as the important qualities that a sport psychologist should demonstrate. With expectations to win always high at FC Porto, Sara outlines how she might help the players to deal with this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 15 Jan 2026 06:46:00 -0000 EP95: Dr Sara Mesquita (Sport Psychologist for FC Porto Women) full 2 45 Dr Paul Mansell In this special international episode, we welcomed Dr Sara Mesquita into our studio at the University of Staffordshire. Having previously been the sport psychologist for FC Porto's U19 as they reached the top, she now works with the women's team as they begin their quest to reach the Champions League. Sara is also a Lecturer at the University of Porto. Speaking to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Karla Drew, Sara explains the role of togetherness in a high performing team and the traits that are typical of elite footballers. We discuss some of Sara's research, as well as the important qualities that a sport psychologist should demonstrate. With expectations to win always high at FC Porto, Sara outlines how she might help the players to deal with this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this special international episode, we welcomed Dr Sara Mesquita into our studio at the University of Staffordshire. Having previously been the sport psychologist for FC Porto's U19 as they reached the top, she now works with the women's team as they begin their quest to reach the Champions League. Sara is also a Lecturer at the University of Porto.


Speaking to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Karla Drew, Sara explains the role of togetherness in a high performing team and the traits that are typical of elite footballers. We discuss some of Sara's research, as well as the important qualities that a sport psychologist should demonstrate. With expectations to win always high at FC Porto, Sara outlines how she might help the players to deal with this.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4610 no EP94: Joanna Hill (Forensic Area Manager for Staffordshire Police) Joanna Hill is an experienced leader within forensic policing in Staffordshire having amassed 25 years of experience in this domain. In this episode, she explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks how she is able to perform and lead others in this demanding and stressful occupation. Joanna explains why forensic policing, despite often being glamourised in the media, is fraught with challenges. In turn, this can have a negative influence on workers' mental health, and Joanna explains how this is addressed in her team. We also explore performing under pressure from a leadership angle, and Joanna explains her approach to dealing with difficult conversations and how she fosters a sense of togetherness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 08 Jan 2026 06:36:00 -0000 full 2 44 Dr Paul Mansell Joanna Hill is an experienced leader within forensic policing in Staffordshire having amassed 25 years of experience in this domain. In this episode, she explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks how she is able to perform and lead others in this demanding and stressful occupation. Joanna explains why forensic policing, despite often being glamourised in the media, is fraught with challenges. In turn, this can have a negative influence on workers' mental health, and Joanna explains how this is addressed in her team. We also explore performing under pressure from a leadership angle, and Joanna explains her approach to dealing with difficult conversations and how she fosters a sense of togetherness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Joanna Hill is an experienced leader within forensic policing in Staffordshire having amassed 25 years of experience in this domain. In this episode, she explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks how she is able to perform and lead others in this demanding and stressful occupation.


Joanna explains why forensic policing, despite often being glamourised in the media, is fraught with challenges. In turn, this can have a negative influence on workers' mental health, and Joanna explains how this is addressed in her team. We also explore performing under pressure from a leadership angle, and Joanna explains her approach to dealing with difficult conversations and how she fosters a sense of togetherness.

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]]> 3156 no EP93: Louize Yafai (Break-up, Divorce, Domestic Abuse & Emotional Recovery Coach) Louize Yafai is an accredited Breakup, Divorce & Life Transition Coach for individuals and sports professionals, and a member of the International Divorce Coach Centre of Excellence. In this episode, relationships are the central focus of our attention as Louize explains their relevance in performing under pressure. For example, Louize explains how individuals can rebuild their confidence after a difficulties in a relationship and how to negate the effects of 'people pleasing' behaviours. Louize highlights the importance of boundaries and provides a useful analogy regarding how to consider this concept. Louize also explains the role of self-compassion in her work, and the professional skills that she values the most in her role. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 18 Dec 2025 06:29:00 -0000 full 2 43 Dr Paul Mansell Louize Yafai is an accredited Breakup, Divorce & Life Transition Coach for individuals and sports professionals, and a member of the International Divorce Coach Centre of Excellence. In this episode, relationships are the central focus of our attention as Louize explains their relevance in performing under pressure. For example, Louize explains how individuals can rebuild their confidence after a difficulties in a relationship and how to negate the effects of 'people pleasing' behaviours. Louize highlights the importance of boundaries and provides a useful analogy regarding how to consider this concept. Louize also explains the role of self-compassion in her work, and the professional skills that she values the most in her role. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Louize Yafai is an accredited Breakup, Divorce & Life Transition Coach for individuals and sports professionals, and a member of the International Divorce Coach Centre of Excellence. In this episode, relationships are the central focus of our attention as Louize explains their relevance in performing under pressure.

For example, Louize explains how individuals can rebuild their confidence after a difficulties in a relationship and how to negate the effects of 'people pleasing' behaviours. Louize highlights the importance of boundaries and provides a useful analogy regarding how to consider this concept. Louize also explains the role of self-compassion in her work, and the professional skills that she values the most in her role.

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]]> 3763 no EP92: Lauren Garner (Sunderland AFC First Team Performance Psychologist) Lauren Garner is the First Team Performance Psychologist for Sunderland AFC having joined the club during their promotion-winning season in 2024. Prior to that, she has been the Lead Academy Performance Psychologist at Tottenham Hotspur and Blackburn Rovers. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Brandon Walsh ask Lauren to describe her journey into the profession. Lauren explains in detail the importance of listening and reflection in her role. She gives examples of the types of questions she asks players so she can best support their psychological needs. We also ask Lauren to explain how she works at a team and organisational level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 11 Dec 2025 06:43:00 -0000 full 2 42 Dr Paul Mansell Lauren Garner is the First Team Performance Psychologist for Sunderland AFC having joined the club during their promotion-winning season in 2024. Prior to that, she has been the Lead Academy Performance Psychologist at Tottenham Hotspur and Blackburn Rovers. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Brandon Walsh ask Lauren to describe her journey into the profession. Lauren explains in detail the importance of listening and reflection in her role. She gives examples of the types of questions she asks players so she can best support their psychological needs. We also ask Lauren to explain how she works at a team and organisational level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lauren Garner is the First Team Performance Psychologist for Sunderland AFC having joined the club during their promotion-winning season in 2024. Prior to that, she has been the Lead Academy Performance Psychologist at Tottenham Hotspur and Blackburn Rovers.

In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Brandon Walsh ask Lauren to describe her journey into the profession. Lauren explains in detail the importance of listening and reflection in her role. She gives examples of the types of questions she asks players so she can best support their psychological needs. We also ask Lauren to explain how she works at a team and organisational level.

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]]> 5138 no EP91: Mark Pearce (Fire Service Fitness Advisor/Former Firefighter) Mark Pearce has spent around twenty years working for Staffordshire Fire Service. The majority of this has been spent working as a firefighter and over the last three years, Mark now leads a training programme to ensure firefighters are physically prepared for their work. In this episode, we examine pressure from the perspective of a firefighter, and we discuss how to prepare to deal with highly important situations as well as navigating any setbacks. Mark outlines how he deals with being 'on call' and knowing that a major incident could come through at any time. The conversation also turns to leadership - how does Mark motivate the firefighters that he works with to stay physically fit? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 04 Dec 2025 06:23:00 -0000 full 2 41 Dr Paul Mansell Mark Pearce has spent around twenty years working for Staffordshire Fire Service. The majority of this has been spent working as a firefighter and over the last three years, Mark now leads a training programme to ensure firefighters are physically prepared for their work. In this episode, we examine pressure from the perspective of a firefighter, and we discuss how to prepare to deal with highly important situations as well as navigating any setbacks. Mark outlines how he deals with being 'on call' and knowing that a major incident could come through at any time. The conversation also turns to leadership - how does Mark motivate the firefighters that he works with to stay physically fit? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Mark Pearce has spent around twenty years working for Staffordshire Fire Service. The majority of this has been spent working as a firefighter and over the last three years, Mark now leads a training programme to ensure firefighters are physically prepared for their work.

In this episode, we examine pressure from the perspective of a firefighter, and we discuss how to prepare to deal with highly important situations as well as navigating any setbacks. Mark outlines how he deals with being 'on call' and knowing that a major incident could come through at any time. The conversation also turns to leadership - how does Mark motivate the firefighters that he works with to stay physically fit?

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]]> 4345 no EP90: Taylor Allen (Wycombe Wanderers Defender) Taylor Allen grew up in Staffordshire and began his professional career with Forest Green Rovers. After several loan spells, he then joined Walsall FC where he won the club's Player of the Season award and was named in the League Two team of the year for 2025, accumulating 18 goal involvements in all competitions. This earned him a moved to League One Wycombe Wanderers for an undisclosed fee. In a moving and poignant episode, Taylor describes how the tragic passing of his father was marked by the players and staff at Walsall FC. He outlines the individuals who have shaped his psychology, and on a personal level, the psychological factors that influence taking set pieces. Taylor also describes the importance of confidence and how he maintains a high level of self-belief. We also discuss the psychology behind Walsall's challenging end to the 2024/25 season, and what it was like to prepare for a play-off final at Wembley. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 27 Nov 2025 06:30:00 -0000 full 2 40 Dr Paul Mansell Taylor Allen grew up in Staffordshire and began his professional career with Forest Green Rovers. After several loan spells, he then joined Walsall FC where he won the club's Player of the Season award and was named in the League Two team of the year for 2025, accumulating 18 goal involvements in all competitions. This earned him a moved to League One Wycombe Wanderers for an undisclosed fee. In a moving and poignant episode, Taylor describes how the tragic passing of his father was marked by the players and staff at Walsall FC. He outlines the individuals who have shaped his psychology, and on a personal level, the psychological factors that influence taking set pieces. Taylor also describes the importance of confidence and how he maintains a high level of self-belief. We also discuss the psychology behind Walsall's challenging end to the 2024/25 season, and what it was like to prepare for a play-off final at Wembley. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Taylor Allen grew up in Staffordshire and began his professional career with Forest Green Rovers. After several loan spells, he then joined Walsall FC where he won the club's Player of the Season award and was named in the League Two team of the year for 2025, accumulating 18 goal involvements in all competitions. This earned him a moved to League One Wycombe Wanderers for an undisclosed fee.

In a moving and poignant episode, Taylor describes how the tragic passing of his father was marked by the players and staff at Walsall FC. He outlines the individuals who have shaped his psychology, and on a personal level, the psychological factors that influence taking set pieces. Taylor also describes the importance of confidence and how he maintains a high level of self-belief. We also discuss the psychology behind Walsall's challenging end to the 2024/25 season, and what it was like to prepare for a play-off final at Wembley.

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]]> 4956 no EP89: Jordan Brookes (Golf Caddy and Sport Psychologist in Training) Jordan Brookes is a golf caddy and sport psychologist in training. He is currently completing his professional doctorate through the University of Portsmouth. Jordan also has experience of supporting academy footballers and currently works with players at Crewe Alexandra's academy. In this episode, Jordan reflects on how is able to combine his role as a caddy with providing psychological assistance to golfers during their round. He discusses some of the practical strategies that he applies, such as how irrational self-talk could be tackled. Jordan also shares his insights on the use of imagery in golf and why it is important to consider tournament preparation on a holistic level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 20 Nov 2025 06:45:00 -0000 full 2 38 Dr Paul Mansell Jordan Brookes is a golf caddy and sport psychologist in training. He is currently completing his professional doctorate through the University of Portsmouth. Jordan also has experience of supporting academy footballers and currently works with players at Crewe Alexandra's academy. In this episode, Jordan reflects on how is able to combine his role as a caddy with providing psychological assistance to golfers during their round. He discusses some of the practical strategies that he applies, such as how irrational self-talk could be tackled. Jordan also shares his insights on the use of imagery in golf and why it is important to consider tournament preparation on a holistic level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Jordan Brookes is a golf caddy and sport psychologist in training. He is currently completing his professional doctorate through the University of Portsmouth. Jordan also has experience of supporting academy footballers and currently works with players at Crewe Alexandra's academy.

In this episode, Jordan reflects on how is able to combine his role as a caddy with providing psychological assistance to golfers during their round. He discusses some of the practical strategies that he applies, such as how irrational self-talk could be tackled. Jordan also shares his insights on the use of imagery in golf and why it is important to consider tournament preparation on a holistic level.

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]]> 4020 no EP88: Gail & Andy Coady (Parents of Conor Coady) Gail and Andy Coady are the parents are former Wolverhampton Wanderers captain and England international Conor Coady, and his brother Harrison. Conor made over 300 appearances in Old Gold and has 10 England caps, and he has also represented Everton and Leicester City in the Premier League. In this episode, we explore the experiences of parenting in elite sport from academy football to the World Cup. Gail and Andy share how they may have shaped Conor's leadership skills, how they have supported him during the difficult moments of his career, and how they play an active role as grandparents to Conor's football-mad children. Gail and Andy share their experiences of the personal abuse that Conor has experienced in-stadium and on social media and how, as a parent, what life is like for them on the rollercoaster of elite football. We also hear about the positive experiences they have had and the advice they would give to parents of academy footballers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 13 Nov 2025 06:33:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Gail and Andy Coady are the parents are former Wolverhampton Wanderers captain and England international Conor Coady, and his brother Harrison. Conor made over 300 appearances in Old Gold and has 10 England caps, and he has also represented Everton and Leicester City in the Premier League. In this episode, we explore the experiences of parenting in elite sport from academy football to the World Cup. Gail and Andy share how they may have shaped Conor's leadership skills, how they have supported him during the difficult moments of his career, and how they play an active role as grandparents to Conor's football-mad children. Gail and Andy share their experiences of the personal abuse that Conor has experienced in-stadium and on social media and how, as a parent, what life is like for them on the rollercoaster of elite football. We also hear about the positive experiences they have had and the advice they would give to parents of academy footballers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Gail and Andy Coady are the parents are former Wolverhampton Wanderers captain and England international Conor Coady, and his brother Harrison. Conor made over 300 appearances in Old Gold and has 10 England caps, and he has also represented Everton and Leicester City in the Premier League. In this episode, we explore the experiences of parenting in elite sport from academy football to the World Cup. Gail and Andy share how they may have shaped Conor's leadership skills, how they have supported him during the difficult moments of his career, and how they play an active role as grandparents to Conor's football-mad children.

Gail and Andy share their experiences of the personal abuse that Conor has experienced in-stadium and on social media and how, as a parent, what life is like for them on the rollercoaster of elite football. We also hear about the positive experiences they have had and the advice they would give to parents of academy footballers.


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]]> 3936 no EP87: Peter Dutton (Psychotherapist) Peter Dutton is a psychotherapist and counsellor who works with athletes and occupational workers to enhance their wellbeing and performance. Peter works for Sporting Chance to help athletes in dealing with addictions and he is also a part-time lecturer at Anglia Ruskin University. In this episode, he shares insights from his practice to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Karla Drew. During the conversation, Peter outlines the role of dopamine in addiction and explains how mentoring can be a valuable approach to support career transitions. Peter also describes how mental health can impact performance and how we might be able to spot when a teammate is suffering from poor mental health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 06 Nov 2025 06:45:00 -0000 full 2 37 Dr Paul Mansell Peter Dutton is a psychotherapist and counsellor who works with athletes and occupational workers to enhance their wellbeing and performance. Peter works for Sporting Chance to help athletes in dealing with addictions and he is also a part-time lecturer at Anglia Ruskin University. In this episode, he shares insights from his practice to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Karla Drew. During the conversation, Peter outlines the role of dopamine in addiction and explains how mentoring can be a valuable approach to support career transitions. Peter also describes how mental health can impact performance and how we might be able to spot when a teammate is suffering from poor mental health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Peter Dutton is a psychotherapist and counsellor who works with athletes and occupational workers to enhance their wellbeing and performance. Peter works for Sporting Chance to help athletes in dealing with addictions and he is also a part-time lecturer at Anglia Ruskin University. In this episode, he shares insights from his practice to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Karla Drew.

During the conversation, Peter outlines the role of dopamine in addiction and explains how mentoring can be a valuable approach to support career transitions. Peter also describes how mental health can impact performance and how we might be able to spot when a teammate is suffering from poor mental health.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3627 no EP86: Graham Scott (Former Premier League Referee) Graham Scott has spent a decade refereeing at the highest level of English football having worked his way up from the National League to the Premier League. He retired from the Select Group of Officials in 2025. In this episode, Graham explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater how he was able to perform well in the high-stakes environment that is Premier League football. Part of this process is built around a clear routine, and Graham outlines how he approached the days and hours leading up to kick-off. He shares what he considers to be the biggest source of mistakes in officiating and provides some interesting advice for those who are looking to excel at officiating. We also discuss the need for referees to decompress after an important fixture, and Graham reflects on the reporting of refereeing decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 30 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Graham Scott has spent a decade refereeing at the highest level of English football having worked his way up from the National League to the Premier League. He retired from the Select Group of Officials in 2025. In this episode, Graham explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater how he was able to perform well in the high-stakes environment that is Premier League football. Part of this process is built around a clear routine, and Graham outlines how he approached the days and hours leading up to kick-off. He shares what he considers to be the biggest source of mistakes in officiating and provides some interesting advice for those who are looking to excel at officiating. We also discuss the need for referees to decompress after an important fixture, and Graham reflects on the reporting of refereeing decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Graham Scott has spent a decade refereeing at the highest level of English football having worked his way up from the National League to the Premier League. He retired from the Select Group of Officials in 2025.

In this episode, Graham explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater how he was able to perform well in the high-stakes environment that is Premier League football. Part of this process is built around a clear routine, and Graham outlines how he approached the days and hours leading up to kick-off. He shares what he considers to be the biggest source of mistakes in officiating and provides some interesting advice for those who are looking to excel at officiating. We also discuss the need for referees to decompress after an important fixture, and Graham reflects on the reporting of refereeing decisions.

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]]> 4481 no EP85: Ian Davies MBE (Associate Professor of Biomedical Science Practice) Ian Davies MBE is an associate professor in Health, Education and Policing Sciences at the University of Staffordshire. For 20 years, Ian worked within the NHS as Lead Biomedical Scientist and an Operational Manager, providing 24-hour analysis of specimens from patients to assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of disease. In 2025, Ian was awarded an MBE for his services to pathology and biomedical science education. In this episode, Ian offers his unique perspective into the challenges and psychological effects of working within a demanding clinical environment. He goes into detail about the inherent stressors of working with sick patients and how to handle these, as well as his thoughts on what makes an effective leader. Ian also explains how he is designing graduate courses to better equip prospective NHS scientists with the ability to lead and perform under pressure. With thanks to Jacob Rowlands and Holly Cadman for their technical support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:20:00 -0000 full 2 35 Dr Paul Mansell Ian Davies MBE is an associate professor in Health, Education and Policing Sciences at the University of Staffordshire. For 20 years, Ian worked within the NHS as Lead Biomedical Scientist and an Operational Manager, providing 24-hour analysis of specimens from patients to assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of disease. In 2025, Ian was awarded an MBE for his services to pathology and biomedical science education. In this episode, Ian offers his unique perspective into the challenges and psychological effects of working within a demanding clinical environment. He goes into detail about the inherent stressors of working with sick patients and how to handle these, as well as his thoughts on what makes an effective leader. Ian also explains how he is designing graduate courses to better equip prospective NHS scientists with the ability to lead and perform under pressure. With thanks to Jacob Rowlands and Holly Cadman for their technical support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Ian Davies MBE is an associate professor in Health, Education and Policing Sciences at the University of Staffordshire. For 20 years, Ian worked within the NHS as Lead Biomedical Scientist and an Operational Manager, providing 24-hour analysis of specimens from patients to assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of disease. In 2025, Ian was awarded an MBE for his services to pathology and biomedical science education.

In this episode, Ian offers his unique perspective into the challenges and psychological effects of working within a demanding clinical environment. He goes into detail about the inherent stressors of working with sick patients and how to handle these, as well as his thoughts on what makes an effective leader. Ian also explains how he is designing graduate courses to better equip prospective NHS scientists with the ability to lead and perform under pressure.

With thanks to Jacob Rowlands and Holly Cadman for their technical support.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3976 no EP84: Ben Osborn (Professional Footballer) Ben Osborn is a professional footballer who is currently on loan to Stockport County from Derby County. His former clubs include Nottingham Forest and Sheffield United, and he has also represented England at U18, U19, and U20 level. He has made over 350 appearances in his career including 61 appearances in the Premier League. In this episode, he explains how he prepares himself to deliver on a matchday. He describes his ideal type of leadership, including what changed at Derby County towards the end of the 2024/25 season when they survived relegation having looked certain to go down. Ben also explains his business interests and how he is utilising mentoring in schools to support the development of adolescent boys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 16 Oct 2025 05:36:00 -0000 full 2 34 Dr Paul Mansell Ben Osborn is a professional footballer who is currently on loan to Stockport County from Derby County. His former clubs include Nottingham Forest and Sheffield United, and he has also represented England at U18, U19, and U20 level. He has made over 350 appearances in his career including 61 appearances in the Premier League. In this episode, he explains how he prepares himself to deliver on a matchday. He describes his ideal type of leadership, including what changed at Derby County towards the end of the 2024/25 season when they survived relegation having looked certain to go down. Ben also explains his business interests and how he is utilising mentoring in schools to support the development of adolescent boys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Ben Osborn is a professional footballer who is currently on loan to Stockport County from Derby County. His former clubs include Nottingham Forest and Sheffield United, and he has also represented England at U18, U19, and U20 level. He has made over 350 appearances in his career including 61 appearances in the Premier League.

In this episode, he explains how he prepares himself to deliver on a matchday. He describes his ideal type of leadership, including what changed at Derby County towards the end of the 2024/25 season when they survived relegation having looked certain to go down. Ben also explains his business interests and how he is utilising mentoring in schools to support the development of adolescent boys.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4299 no EP83: Erin Seppi (Valadares Gaia FC Captain and Goalkeeper) In this special international episode recorded in the Porto region of north Portugal, we are joined by professional footballer Erin Seppi. Erin is from New Jersey in the United States of America and has represented Romanian side FC Cluj in the Champions League before joining Valadares Gaia in 2021. Valadares Gaia are one of the top sides in women's football in Portugal, and Erin is their captain and goalkeeper. In this episode, Erin reveals the kind of skills that are in her psychological toolkit that can help her to perform under pressure and deal with mistakes. Our first goalkeeper on the show, Erin also explains the psychology of a goalkeeper and how that might be different to outfield players. We focus on leadership and Erin describes how a senior leadership group can shape togetherness at Valadares Gaia. Erin also explains how she was able to deal with studying while playing to a high level, and how she is developing skills now that can underpin life beyond football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 09 Oct 2025 05:49:00 -0000 full 2 33 Dr Paul Mansell In this special international episode recorded in the Porto region of north Portugal, we are joined by professional footballer Erin Seppi. Erin is from New Jersey in the United States of America and has represented Romanian side FC Cluj in the Champions League before joining Valadares Gaia in 2021. Valadares Gaia are one of the top sides in women's football in Portugal, and Erin is their captain and goalkeeper. In this episode, Erin reveals the kind of skills that are in her psychological toolkit that can help her to perform under pressure and deal with mistakes. Our first goalkeeper on the show, Erin also explains the psychology of a goalkeeper and how that might be different to outfield players. We focus on leadership and Erin describes how a senior leadership group can shape togetherness at Valadares Gaia. Erin also explains how she was able to deal with studying while playing to a high level, and how she is developing skills now that can underpin life beyond football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this special international episode recorded in the Porto region of north Portugal, we are joined by professional footballer Erin Seppi. Erin is from New Jersey in the United States of America and has represented Romanian side FC Cluj in the Champions League before joining Valadares Gaia in 2021. Valadares Gaia are one of the top sides in women's football in Portugal, and Erin is their captain and goalkeeper.

In this episode, Erin reveals the kind of skills that are in her psychological toolkit that can help her to perform under pressure and deal with mistakes. Our first goalkeeper on the show, Erin also explains the psychology of a goalkeeper and how that might be different to outfield players. We focus on leadership and Erin describes how a senior leadership group can shape togetherness at Valadares Gaia. Erin also explains how she was able to deal with studying while playing to a high level, and how she is developing skills now that can underpin life beyond football.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3526 no EP82: Jeremy Holt (Organisational Psychologist) Jeremy Holt is a chartered organisational psychologist and a founder of the Centre of Team Excellence. He has spent over 30 years building high-performance teams in sport, business, and the military. Jeremy also coaches young players in grassroots rugby, for which he has a strong passion. He is also the author of "For the Love of the Game: How to coach identity, belonging and performance in sport. A playbook for grassroots coaches".  In this episode, Jeremy gives an overview of the "TRIBE" method outlined in his book, which gives a guideline for creating a sense of togetherness or "us" within a team. Additionally, Jeremy talks about his approach to team leadership and the importance of social identity. He recounts his experiences working in senior officer training, as well as working with some of Great Britain's Olympic and Paralympic teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 02 Oct 2025 05:32:00 -0000 full 2 32 Dr Paul Mansell Jeremy Holt is a chartered organisational psychologist and a founder of the Centre of Team Excellence. He has spent over 30 years building high-performance teams in sport, business, and the military. Jeremy also coaches young players in grassroots rugby, for which he has a strong passion. He is also the author of "For the Love of the Game: How to coach identity, belonging and performance in sport. A playbook for grassroots coaches".  In this episode, Jeremy gives an overview of the "TRIBE" method outlined in his book, which gives a guideline for creating a sense of togetherness or "us" within a team. Additionally, Jeremy talks about his approach to team leadership and the importance of social identity. He recounts his experiences working in senior officer training, as well as working with some of Great Britain's Olympic and Paralympic teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Jeremy Holt is a chartered organisational psychologist and a founder of the Centre of Team Excellence. He has spent over 30 years building high-performance teams in sport, business, and the military. Jeremy also coaches young players in grassroots rugby, for which he has a strong passion. He is also the author of "For the Love of the Game: How to coach identity, belonging and performance in sport. A playbook for grassroots coaches". 
In this episode, Jeremy gives an overview of the "TRIBE" method outlined in his book, which gives a guideline for creating a sense of togetherness or "us" within a team. Additionally, Jeremy talks about his approach to team leadership and the importance of social identity. He recounts his experiences working in senior officer training, as well as working with some of Great Britain's Olympic and Paralympic teams.

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]]> 5342 no EP81: Emma Heighway (Subject Leader of PE) Emma Heighway is the Subject Leader of PE at Erasmus Darwin Academy, a school based in Staffordshire. Having graduated with a first class honours degree and completed her PGCE, she has been teaching PE for over ten years. More recently, she has been promoted to Subject Leader, and leadership forms a big part of our conversation. We discuss the importance of having values that are lived, and Emma shares how this is the case for students and staff alike. We also discuss ways to motivate young people, the importance of goal setting, and how to make a learning environment inclusive. Emma also shares her approach to fostering the development of leadership in young people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 25 Sep 2025 05:30:00 -0000 full 2 31 Dr Paul Mansell Emma Heighway is the Subject Leader of PE at Erasmus Darwin Academy, a school based in Staffordshire. Having graduated with a first class honours degree and completed her PGCE, she has been teaching PE for over ten years. More recently, she has been promoted to Subject Leader, and leadership forms a big part of our conversation. We discuss the importance of having values that are lived, and Emma shares how this is the case for students and staff alike. We also discuss ways to motivate young people, the importance of goal setting, and how to make a learning environment inclusive. Emma also shares her approach to fostering the development of leadership in young people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Emma Heighway is the Subject Leader of PE at Erasmus Darwin Academy, a school based in Staffordshire. Having graduated with a first class honours degree and completed her PGCE, she has been teaching PE for over ten years. More recently, she has been promoted to Subject Leader, and leadership forms a big part of our conversation. We discuss the importance of having values that are lived, and Emma shares how this is the case for students and staff alike.

We also discuss ways to motivate young people, the importance of goal setting, and how to make a learning environment inclusive. Emma also shares her approach to fostering the development of leadership in young people.

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]]> 4471 no EP80: Katie Clark (Sport Psychologist) Katie Clark is a HCPC accredited Sport and Exercise Psychologist. She completed her postgraduate degree at the University of Staffordshire and has since gone on to work in a Premier League football academy and in women's football, among other sports. In this episode, she explains to Dr Paul Mansell how she navigated the challenging pathway to becoming a Sport Psychologist. Katie tells us more about her work around the training ground and on a matchday, and she reflects on strategies that she finds to be effective when working with players. Katie outlines the balance between working at group-level vs. 1-to-1 and how she works through the coach to develop an effective environment for performance under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:32:00 -0000 full 2 30 Dr Paul Mansell Katie Clark is a HCPC accredited Sport and Exercise Psychologist. She completed her postgraduate degree at the University of Staffordshire and has since gone on to work in a Premier League football academy and in women's football, among other sports. In this episode, she explains to Dr Paul Mansell how she navigated the challenging pathway to becoming a Sport Psychologist. Katie tells us more about her work around the training ground and on a matchday, and she reflects on strategies that she finds to be effective when working with players. Katie outlines the balance between working at group-level vs. 1-to-1 and how she works through the coach to develop an effective environment for performance under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Katie Clark is a HCPC accredited Sport and Exercise Psychologist. She completed her postgraduate degree at the University of Staffordshire and has since gone on to work in a Premier League football academy and in women's football, among other sports.

In this episode, she explains to Dr Paul Mansell how she navigated the challenging pathway to becoming a Sport Psychologist. Katie tells us more about her work around the training ground and on a matchday, and she reflects on strategies that she finds to be effective when working with players. Katie outlines the balance between working at group-level vs. 1-to-1 and how she works through the coach to develop an effective environment for performance under pressure.

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]]> 3568 no EP79: Sara Svoboda (Harlequins and Canada Rugby Player) Sara Svoboda is a Canadian rugby player at Harlequins FC. In 2021, she reached the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup, and has over 20 caps for her country. Sara is also a doctoral researcher at Loughborough University.In this episode, Sara shares her methods for controlling her demeanour and behaviour while performing under pressure, both on and off the field. As an international athlete, Sara offers a unique perspective on the ways in which she has been able to support her team following some significant setbacks, sharing her findings on the usefulness of being mentally flexible in response to adversity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 11 Sep 2025 05:23:00 -0000 full 2 29 Dr Paul Mansell Sara Svoboda is a Canadian rugby player at Harlequins FC. In 2021, she reached the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup, and has over 20 caps for her country. Sara is also a doctoral researcher at Loughborough University.In this episode, Sara shares her methods for controlling her demeanour and behaviour while performing under pressure, both on and off the field. As an international athlete, Sara offers a unique perspective on the ways in which she has been able to support her team following some significant setbacks, sharing her findings on the usefulness of being mentally flexible in response to adversity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Sara Svoboda is a Canadian rugby player at Harlequins FC. In 2021, she reached the semi-finals of the Rugby World Cup, and has over 20 caps for her country. Sara is also a doctoral researcher at Loughborough University.
In this episode, Sara shares her methods for controlling her demeanour and behaviour while performing under pressure, both on and off the field. As an international athlete, Sara offers a unique perspective on the ways in which she has been able to support her team following some significant setbacks, sharing her findings on the usefulness of being mentally flexible in response to adversity.

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]]> 4293 no EP78: James Maurice (Sport Psychologist) James Maurice is the Lead Academy Sport Psychologist at Portsmouth FC. He has previously worked in the academies at West Ham United, Sunderland, and Wolverhampton Wanderers. In this episode, James shares his experiences of working in this domain, as well as working for GB Archery at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. James describes the concept of 'pressure menus' to help prepare athletes for competition. We discuss the role of mentoring and the findings from James's PhD which examined the parent engagement in academy football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:41:00 -0000 full 2 28 Dr Paul Mansell James Maurice is the Lead Academy Sport Psychologist at Portsmouth FC. He has previously worked in the academies at West Ham United, Sunderland, and Wolverhampton Wanderers. In this episode, James shares his experiences of working in this domain, as well as working for GB Archery at the Olympic and Paralympic Games. James describes the concept of 'pressure menus' to help prepare athletes for competition. We discuss the role of mentoring and the findings from James's PhD which examined the parent engagement in academy football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices James Maurice is the Lead Academy Sport Psychologist at Portsmouth FC. He has previously worked in the academies at West Ham United, Sunderland, and Wolverhampton Wanderers. In this episode, James shares his experiences of working in this domain, as well as working for GB Archery at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

James describes the concept of 'pressure menus' to help prepare athletes for competition. We discuss the role of mentoring and the findings from James's PhD which examined the parent engagement in academy football.

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]]> 4439 no BONUS EPISODE: Sam Winnall's Research - 'Friend or Foe' Former professional footballer Sam Winnall has completed a fascinating research project as part of his MSc, and in this bonus episode, he explains his findings to Dr Paul Mansell. Conducted with a sample of current elite strikers, including an international player, Sam investigated the role of competition for places between teammates in football. With most teams playing with only one 'number 9', how do footballers navigate the scenario of being a team-mate, a friend, and a rival for a place in the team? Sam outlines the results of his interviews, which include healthy and unhealthy competition, what is meant by a 'Goldilocks' level of competition, and the social factors that can influence this dynamic. He also shares some useful implications based on his research. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Mon, 01 Sep 2025 05:52:00 -0000 bonus Dr Paul Mansell Former professional footballer Sam Winnall has completed a fascinating research project as part of his MSc, and in this bonus episode, he explains his findings to Dr Paul Mansell. Conducted with a sample of current elite strikers, including an international player, Sam investigated the role of competition for places between teammates in football. With most teams playing with only one 'number 9', how do footballers navigate the scenario of being a team-mate, a friend, and a rival for a place in the team? Sam outlines the results of his interviews, which include healthy and unhealthy competition, what is meant by a 'Goldilocks' level of competition, and the social factors that can influence this dynamic. He also shares some useful implications based on his research. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Former professional footballer Sam Winnall has completed a fascinating research project as part of his MSc, and in this bonus episode, he explains his findings to Dr Paul Mansell.

Conducted with a sample of current elite strikers, including an international player, Sam investigated the role of competition for places between teammates in football. With most teams playing with only one 'number 9', how do footballers navigate the scenario of being a team-mate, a friend, and a rival for a place in the team?

Sam outlines the results of his interviews, which include healthy and unhealthy competition, what is meant by a 'Goldilocks' level of competition, and the social factors that can influence this dynamic. He also shares some useful implications based on his research.


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]]> 3655 no EP77: Nathan Magill (Head of Referee Development at The FA) Nathan Magill's job is to oversee the development of thousands of referees in England. His previous experience includes being Head of Referees at Football Australia and he is also a Board Member on the Premier League's Elite Referee Development Plan. He explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Stuart Carrington the importance of a person-first approach to his role. This episode naturally features conversations about the learning and development of referees, but more so, the development and leadership of individuals. Nathan shares the one question that underpins his leadership, how the FA support referees in dealing with abuse, and why he has no non-negotiables when it comes to referees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 28 Aug 2025 05:53:00 -0000 full 2 27 Dr Paul Mansell Nathan Magill's job is to oversee the development of thousands of referees in England. His previous experience includes being Head of Referees at Football Australia and he is also a Board Member on the Premier League's Elite Referee Development Plan. He explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Stuart Carrington the importance of a person-first approach to his role. This episode naturally features conversations about the learning and development of referees, but more so, the development and leadership of individuals. Nathan shares the one question that underpins his leadership, how the FA support referees in dealing with abuse, and why he has no non-negotiables when it comes to referees. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Nathan Magill's job is to oversee the development of thousands of referees in England. His previous experience includes being Head of Referees at Football Australia and he is also a Board Member on the Premier League's Elite Referee Development Plan. He explains to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Stuart Carrington the importance of a person-first approach to his role.


This episode naturally features conversations about the learning and development of referees, but more so, the development and leadership of individuals. Nathan shares the one question that underpins his leadership, how the FA support referees in dealing with abuse, and why he has no non-negotiables when it comes to referees.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3825 no EP76: Helen Davis (Sport Psychologist) Helen Davis is a Sport Psychologist who has extensive experience working across a broad spectrum of sports, collaborating with accomplished athletes at various levels. Her clientele includes elite professional teams and individuals, amateurs, Olympic and Paralympic medallists, as well as Commonwealth, European and World Champions. Through completing her postgraduate degree at the University of Staffordshire, Helen explains her transition from teaching into sport psychology. With host Dr Paul Mansell, we explore Helen's experiences of working at Wimbledon, and Helen outlines how a lightbulb moment helped her to see pressure in a different way as a competitive swimmer herself. We also discuss supervision of trainee sport psychologists, and Helen reveals what she thinks sport psychology will look like as a discipline in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 21 Aug 2025 05:16:00 -0000 full 2 26 Dr Paul Mansell Helen Davis is a Sport Psychologist who has extensive experience working across a broad spectrum of sports, collaborating with accomplished athletes at various levels. Her clientele includes elite professional teams and individuals, amateurs, Olympic and Paralympic medallists, as well as Commonwealth, European and World Champions. Through completing her postgraduate degree at the University of Staffordshire, Helen explains her transition from teaching into sport psychology. With host Dr Paul Mansell, we explore Helen's experiences of working at Wimbledon, and Helen outlines how a lightbulb moment helped her to see pressure in a different way as a competitive swimmer herself. We also discuss supervision of trainee sport psychologists, and Helen reveals what she thinks sport psychology will look like as a discipline in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Helen Davis is a Sport Psychologist who has extensive experience working across a broad spectrum of sports, collaborating with accomplished athletes at various levels. Her clientele includes elite professional teams and individuals, amateurs, Olympic and Paralympic medallists, as well as Commonwealth, European and World Champions.


Through completing her postgraduate degree at the University of Staffordshire, Helen explains her transition from teaching into sport psychology. With host Dr Paul Mansell, we explore Helen's experiences of working at Wimbledon, and Helen outlines how a lightbulb moment helped her to see pressure in a different way as a competitive swimmer herself. We also discuss supervision of trainee sport psychologists, and Helen reveals what she thinks sport psychology will look like as a discipline in the future.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4290 no EP75: Maisie Brown (Wife of Jacob Brown, Scotland International Footballer) In this episode, Maisie Brown shares her experiences of what life is like as the romantic partner of a high performance athlete. Married to Jacob Brown, a forward for Luton Town and Scotland, Maisie shares her thoughts on what it is like to navigate the transfer window, dealing with Jacob's injuries, experiencing abuse, and the scheduling issues that are part of football. This interview builds on Dr Sofie Kent's work which explores the experiences of romantic partners in elite sport. Often the bedrock of an athletes' support system, there is often a lack of focus on supporting romantic partners. Maisie offers some suggestions as to how this might be improved, as well as her advice as to how younger romantic partners can best deal with life in this domain. We also hear from Jacob about the level of support he feels that he receives from Maisie, while he also shares some of his experiences as part of being a married couple in elite sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 14 Aug 2025 05:31:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Maisie Brown shares her experiences of what life is like as the romantic partner of a high performance athlete. Married to Jacob Brown, a forward for Luton Town and Scotland, Maisie shares her thoughts on what it is like to navigate the transfer window, dealing with Jacob's injuries, experiencing abuse, and the scheduling issues that are part of football. This interview builds on Dr Sofie Kent's work which explores the experiences of romantic partners in elite sport. Often the bedrock of an athletes' support system, there is often a lack of focus on supporting romantic partners. Maisie offers some suggestions as to how this might be improved, as well as her advice as to how younger romantic partners can best deal with life in this domain. We also hear from Jacob about the level of support he feels that he receives from Maisie, while he also shares some of his experiences as part of being a married couple in elite sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, Maisie Brown shares her experiences of what life is like as the romantic partner of a high performance athlete. Married to Jacob Brown, a forward for Luton Town and Scotland, Maisie shares her thoughts on what it is like to navigate the transfer window, dealing with Jacob's injuries, experiencing abuse, and the scheduling issues that are part of football.

This interview builds on Dr Sofie Kent's work which explores the experiences of romantic partners in elite sport. Often the bedrock of an athletes' support system, there is often a lack of focus on supporting romantic partners. Maisie offers some suggestions as to how this might be improved, as well as her advice as to how younger romantic partners can best deal with life in this domain.

We also hear from Jacob about the level of support he feels that he receives from Maisie, while he also shares some of his experiences as part of being a married couple in elite sport.

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]]> 4753 no EP74: Jack Cuthbertson (Personal Trainer) Jack Cuthbertson is a personal trainer and business owner. Having worked in the industry for over a decade, he explains how he uses psychology as an integral part of his daily work. For example, he outlines how he uses goal setting, his approach to motivating his clients, and how he went about taking a calculated risk to set up his own business. This episode really highlights the role that psychology plays in both work and life, and regardless of your occupation, there are some useful takeaways that can help individuals reflect on their own use of psychology. Jack describes to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson how he protects his mental health and shares a useful analogy that our listeners may benefit from. We also debate the success of Hyrox, and Jack explains how he uses psychology himself as a regular Hyrox competitor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:05:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Jack Cuthbertson is a personal trainer and business owner. Having worked in the industry for over a decade, he explains how he uses psychology as an integral part of his daily work. For example, he outlines how he uses goal setting, his approach to motivating his clients, and how he went about taking a calculated risk to set up his own business. This episode really highlights the role that psychology plays in both work and life, and regardless of your occupation, there are some useful takeaways that can help individuals reflect on their own use of psychology. Jack describes to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson how he protects his mental health and shares a useful analogy that our listeners may benefit from. We also debate the success of Hyrox, and Jack explains how he uses psychology himself as a regular Hyrox competitor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Jack Cuthbertson is a personal trainer and business owner. Having worked in the industry for over a decade, he explains how he uses psychology as an integral part of his daily work. For example, he outlines how he uses goal setting, his approach to motivating his clients, and how he went about taking a calculated risk to set up his own business. This episode really highlights the role that psychology plays in both work and life, and regardless of your occupation, there are some useful takeaways that can help individuals reflect on their own use of psychology.


Jack describes to hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson how he protects his mental health and shares a useful analogy that our listeners may benefit from. We also debate the success of Hyrox, and Jack explains how he uses psychology himself as a regular Hyrox competitor.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3904 no EP73: Nathan Judah (Sports Journalist and Broadcaster) Nathan is a Digital Sports Editor, Presenter, Sports Writer, and Podcast Host for Wolverhampton’s Express and Star newspaper. He has covered Wolves for nearly a decade, and earlier this year, he was named Sports Journalist of the Year at the Regional Press Awards. In this episode, we explore performance under pressure in the domains of journalism and broadcasting. To what extent are deadlines a stressor in journalism? What are the nuances of managing relationships between football clubs and the press? What is like working in the chaos of the transfer window? How important is integrity in broadcasting? And who is the best sports journalist in the world, in Nathan's opinion? From a Wolves perspective, Nathan shares what it was like working with Nuno Espirito Santo and how challenging it can be to be the bearer of bad news. We also discuss life as a podcast host and how to prepare for speaking live in front of hundreds of people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:15:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Nathan is a Digital Sports Editor, Presenter, Sports Writer, and Podcast Host for Wolverhampton’s Express and Star newspaper. He has covered Wolves for nearly a decade, and earlier this year, he was named Sports Journalist of the Year at the Regional Press Awards. In this episode, we explore performance under pressure in the domains of journalism and broadcasting. To what extent are deadlines a stressor in journalism? What are the nuances of managing relationships between football clubs and the press? What is like working in the chaos of the transfer window? How important is integrity in broadcasting? And who is the best sports journalist in the world, in Nathan's opinion? From a Wolves perspective, Nathan shares what it was like working with Nuno Espirito Santo and how challenging it can be to be the bearer of bad news. We also discuss life as a podcast host and how to prepare for speaking live in front of hundreds of people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Nathan is a Digital Sports Editor, Presenter, Sports Writer, and Podcast Host for Wolverhampton’s Express and Star newspaper. He has covered Wolves for nearly a decade, and earlier this year, he was named Sports Journalist of the Year at the Regional Press Awards.

In this episode, we explore performance under pressure in the domains of journalism and broadcasting. To what extent are deadlines a stressor in journalism? What are the nuances of managing relationships between football clubs and the press? What is like working in the chaos of the transfer window? How important is integrity in broadcasting? And who is the best sports journalist in the world, in Nathan's opinion?

From a Wolves perspective, Nathan shares what it was like working with Nuno Espirito Santo and how challenging it can be to be the bearer of bad news. We also discuss life as a podcast host and how to prepare for speaking live in front of hundreds of people.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 5517 no EP72: Stuart Carrington (Lecturer and Researcher) Stuart Carrington is a Lecturer at St Mary's University in Twickenham, London. He is currently completing his PhD which centres around officials' performance under pressure, and he is the author of 'Blowing the Whistle: The Psychology of Football Refereeing'. In the episode, Stuart discusses the strategies that officials typically find to be helpful before, during, and after a performance. With a focus on Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy, Stuart explains which irrational beliefs are particularly prominent and unhelpful in officials. We also discuss how organisations can facilitate performance under pressure for officials, such as through mentoring schemes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:10:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Stuart Carrington is a Lecturer at St Mary's University in Twickenham, London. He is currently completing his PhD which centres around officials' performance under pressure, and he is the author of 'Blowing the Whistle: The Psychology of Football Refereeing'. In the episode, Stuart discusses the strategies that officials typically find to be helpful before, during, and after a performance. With a focus on Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy, Stuart explains which irrational beliefs are particularly prominent and unhelpful in officials. We also discuss how organisations can facilitate performance under pressure for officials, such as through mentoring schemes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Stuart Carrington is a Lecturer at St Mary's University in Twickenham, London. He is currently completing his PhD which centres around officials' performance under pressure, and he is the author of 'Blowing the Whistle: The Psychology of Football Refereeing'.

In the episode, Stuart discusses the strategies that officials typically find to be helpful before, during, and after a performance. With a focus on Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy, Stuart explains which irrational beliefs are particularly prominent and unhelpful in officials. We also discuss how organisations can facilitate performance under pressure for officials, such as through mentoring schemes.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4446 no EP71: Dr Katie Sparks (Lecturer of Sport and Exercise Psychology) Dr Katie Sparks is a Lecturer of Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Staffordshire and a Performance Lifestyle Advisor for British Rowing. She completed her PhD at the University of Birmingham in 2022 and has published several peer-reviewed articles relating to performing under pressure. In this episode, she tells Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Brent Horleston about the importance of mindfulness and how it can facilitate performance. Although not an easy skill to develop, mindfulness can be learned by anyone and can reduce rumination and anxiety. We also discuss self-compassion and how parents can learn these skills to better support their child. The role of mentoring in academy football is explored, as well as how we might reduce the likelihood of choking under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 03 Jul 2025 05:17:00 -0000 full 2 21 Dr Paul Mansell Dr Katie Sparks is a Lecturer of Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Staffordshire and a Performance Lifestyle Advisor for British Rowing. She completed her PhD at the University of Birmingham in 2022 and has published several peer-reviewed articles relating to performing under pressure. In this episode, she tells Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Brent Horleston about the importance of mindfulness and how it can facilitate performance. Although not an easy skill to develop, mindfulness can be learned by anyone and can reduce rumination and anxiety. We also discuss self-compassion and how parents can learn these skills to better support their child. The role of mentoring in academy football is explored, as well as how we might reduce the likelihood of choking under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Katie Sparks is a Lecturer of Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Staffordshire and a Performance Lifestyle Advisor for British Rowing. She completed her PhD at the University of Birmingham in 2022 and has published several peer-reviewed articles relating to performing under pressure.

In this episode, she tells Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Brent Horleston about the importance of mindfulness and how it can facilitate performance. Although not an easy skill to develop, mindfulness can be learned by anyone and can reduce rumination and anxiety. We also discuss self-compassion and how parents can learn these skills to better support their child. The role of mentoring in academy football is explored, as well as how we might reduce the likelihood of choking under pressure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4190 no EP70: Jack McMillan (Holistic Athlete Recovery Specialist) Jack McMillan is a former professional footballer who has dedicated his second career to supporting professional athletes on a holistic level. His specialisms include breathwork and yoga, and he has worked with over 60 professional football clubs and organisations including the PFA and Great Britain. Joining Jack and host Dr Paul Mansell in the studio are two of Jack's clients. Former professional footballer Jake Jervis and Luton Town and Scotland forward Jacob Brown shared their experiences of working with Jack and more broadly, how breathwork and other strategies have helped their performance and wellbeing. Jack describes the science behind breathwork and underlines the importance of maximising something that we all do 20,000 times per day. We discuss the role of the out-breath, the link between breathing and our physiology, and how other strategies such as yoga, meditation, and grounding can support the psychology of athletes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 26 Jun 2025 05:12:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Jack McMillan is a former professional footballer who has dedicated his second career to supporting professional athletes on a holistic level. His specialisms include breathwork and yoga, and he has worked with over 60 professional football clubs and organisations including the PFA and Great Britain. Joining Jack and host Dr Paul Mansell in the studio are two of Jack's clients. Former professional footballer Jake Jervis and Luton Town and Scotland forward Jacob Brown shared their experiences of working with Jack and more broadly, how breathwork and other strategies have helped their performance and wellbeing. Jack describes the science behind breathwork and underlines the importance of maximising something that we all do 20,000 times per day. We discuss the role of the out-breath, the link between breathing and our physiology, and how other strategies such as yoga, meditation, and grounding can support the psychology of athletes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Jack McMillan is a former professional footballer who has dedicated his second career to supporting professional athletes on a holistic level. His specialisms include breathwork and yoga, and he has worked with over 60 professional football clubs and organisations including the PFA and Great Britain.

Joining Jack and host Dr Paul Mansell in the studio are two of Jack's clients. Former professional footballer Jake Jervis and Luton Town and Scotland forward Jacob Brown shared their experiences of working with Jack and more broadly, how breathwork and other strategies have helped their performance and wellbeing.

Jack describes the science behind breathwork and underlines the importance of maximising something that we all do 20,000 times per day. We discuss the role of the out-breath, the link between breathing and our physiology, and how other strategies such as yoga, meditation, and grounding can support the psychology of athletes.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 6202 no EP69: Dr Andrew Wood (Sport Psychologist) This episode contains a trigger warning - see episode description below... Dr Andrew Wood is a HCPC registered sport psychologist with a specific interest in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy. He has worked with many businesses and teams as well as previously holding lecturer positions at the University of Staffordshire and Manchester Metropolitan University. Joining Dr Paul Mansell in the studio as a co-host is England blind footballer Azeem Amir. Andrew worked with Azeem during his time as the team's sport psychologist. Andrew reflects on what it is like to work in para sport and how adopting rational rather than irrational beliefs can facilitate performance under pressure. Andrew also candidly speaks about his experiences of long Covid. In an emotional and enlightening episode, Andrew shares how he coped with some incredibly dark times, and we should warn listeners that there is a discussion about topics that might be upsetting. If you or someone you know is in crisis, Mind UK are a charity that offer free mental health support via their website https://www.mind.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/ or by calling 0300 102 1234. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 19 Jun 2025 05:05:00 -0000 full 2 19 Dr Paul Mansell This episode contains a trigger warning - see episode description below... Dr Andrew Wood is a HCPC registered sport psychologist with a specific interest in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy. He has worked with many businesses and teams as well as previously holding lecturer positions at the University of Staffordshire and Manchester Metropolitan University. Joining Dr Paul Mansell in the studio as a co-host is England blind footballer Azeem Amir. Andrew worked with Azeem during his time as the team's sport psychologist. Andrew reflects on what it is like to work in para sport and how adopting rational rather than irrational beliefs can facilitate performance under pressure. Andrew also candidly speaks about his experiences of long Covid. In an emotional and enlightening episode, Andrew shares how he coped with some incredibly dark times, and we should warn listeners that there is a discussion about topics that might be upsetting. If you or someone you know is in crisis, Mind UK are a charity that offer free mental health support via their website https://www.mind.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/ or by calling 0300 102 1234. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices This episode contains a trigger warning - see episode description below...

Dr Andrew Wood is a HCPC registered sport psychologist with a specific interest in Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy. He has worked with many businesses and teams as well as previously holding lecturer positions at the University of Staffordshire and Manchester Metropolitan University.

Joining Dr Paul Mansell in the studio as a co-host is England blind footballer Azeem Amir. Andrew worked with Azeem during his time as the team's sport psychologist. Andrew reflects on what it is like to work in para sport and how adopting rational rather than irrational beliefs can facilitate performance under pressure.

Andrew also candidly speaks about his experiences of long Covid. In an emotional and enlightening episode, Andrew shares how he coped with some incredibly dark times, and we should warn listeners that there is a discussion about topics that might be upsetting.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, Mind UK are a charity that offer free mental health support via their website https://www.mind.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/ or by calling 0300 102 1234.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4879 no EP68: Kelly Massey OLY (Lecturer of Physical Education and Athlete Motherhood Researcher) Kelly Massey is a former 400m and relay athlete who has represented Team GB at the Olympics, World Championships, European Championships, and Commonwealth Games earning multiple medals throughout her career. Alongside her many years at the training ground, Kelly also taught Physical Education and Dance full-time at secondary school level. Now, Kelly lectures at Liverpool Johns Moores University whilst also completing her PhD exploring all things maternity/motherhood and sport. Joining us on our Stoke-on-Trent campus at the University of Staffordshire, Kelly discusses the pressures of training at Olympic level and her current research with host Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Laura Jackson de Domene.   In this episode, Kelly shares practical advice from her experience behind the scenes of athletic training, highlighting the importance of joy and fun with teammates. She describes the importance of the support team surrounding an athlete being ‘on board’ with a common goal. Kelly also shares her research-informed views on the culture of training environments and wider society in the experiences of athletes navigating fertility, pregnancy and motherhood and evolving identity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:15:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Kelly Massey is a former 400m and relay athlete who has represented Team GB at the Olympics, World Championships, European Championships, and Commonwealth Games earning multiple medals throughout her career. Alongside her many years at the training ground, Kelly also taught Physical Education and Dance full-time at secondary school level. Now, Kelly lectures at Liverpool Johns Moores University whilst also completing her PhD exploring all things maternity/motherhood and sport. Joining us on our Stoke-on-Trent campus at the University of Staffordshire, Kelly discusses the pressures of training at Olympic level and her current research with host Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Laura Jackson de Domene.   In this episode, Kelly shares practical advice from her experience behind the scenes of athletic training, highlighting the importance of joy and fun with teammates. She describes the importance of the support team surrounding an athlete being ‘on board’ with a common goal. Kelly also shares her research-informed views on the culture of training environments and wider society in the experiences of athletes navigating fertility, pregnancy and motherhood and evolving identity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Kelly Massey is a former 400m and relay athlete who has represented Team GB at the Olympics, World Championships, European Championships, and Commonwealth Games earning multiple medals throughout her career. Alongside her many years at the training ground, Kelly also taught Physical Education and Dance full-time at secondary school level. Now, Kelly lectures at Liverpool Johns Moores University whilst also completing her PhD exploring all things maternity/motherhood and sport. Joining us on our Stoke-on-Trent campus at the University of Staffordshire, Kelly discusses the pressures of training at Olympic level and her current research with host Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Laura Jackson de Domene.

 

In this episode, Kelly shares practical advice from her experience behind the scenes of athletic training, highlighting the importance of joy and fun with teammates. She describes the importance of the support team surrounding an athlete being ‘on board’ with a common goal. Kelly also shares her research-informed views on the culture of training environments and wider society in the experiences of athletes navigating fertility, pregnancy and motherhood and evolving identity.


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]]> 4431 EP67: Rhian Cleverly (Rugby Borough Women FC Defender) Rhian Cleverly is a defender for Rugby Borough Women FC. She has previously played in the WSL, Championship, and she has been capped for Wales. Rhian also has a master's degree in sport and exercise psychology. In this episode, Rhian describes the routines that she adopts to aid performance under pressure and how she is able to bounce back from adversity. There is a focus on the culture that has been created at Rugby Borough through initiatives such as 'family meals'. Rhian is a passionate advocate for the advancement of women's football and she describes what life is like in the game having played at a range of levels. This episode was recorded for in aid of Dementia UK - we thank Rhian for her generous donation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 05 Jun 2025 05:29:00 -0000 full Dr Paul Mansell Rhian Cleverly is a defender for Rugby Borough Women FC. She has previously played in the WSL, Championship, and she has been capped for Wales. Rhian also has a master's degree in sport and exercise psychology. In this episode, Rhian describes the routines that she adopts to aid performance under pressure and how she is able to bounce back from adversity. There is a focus on the culture that has been created at Rugby Borough through initiatives such as 'family meals'. Rhian is a passionate advocate for the advancement of women's football and she describes what life is like in the game having played at a range of levels. This episode was recorded for in aid of Dementia UK - we thank Rhian for her generous donation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Rhian Cleverly is a defender for Rugby Borough Women FC. She has previously played in the WSL, Championship, and she has been capped for Wales. Rhian also has a master's degree in sport and exercise psychology.


In this episode, Rhian describes the routines that she adopts to aid performance under pressure and how she is able to bounce back from adversity. There is a focus on the culture that has been created at Rugby Borough through initiatives such as 'family meals'. Rhian is a passionate advocate for the advancement of women's football and she describes what life is like in the game having played at a range of levels.


This episode was recorded for in aid of Dementia UK - we thank Rhian for her generous donation.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3786 no EP66: Kate Richardson-Walsh OBE (Olympic Gold Medallist) Kate Richardson-Walsh was the captain of Team GB women's hockey side that triumphed at the Rio 2016 games. She's been capped a record 375 times for her country. Kate was awarded an MBE in 2016, an OBE in 2017, and was nominated for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2016. Alongside guest co-host for this episode Helen Richardson-Walsh, Kate and Helen were the first same sex married couple to win an Olympic gold as part of the same team. In this episode, Kate describes the importance of vulnerability as a leader and how this may create a sense of togetherness. She explains how she has dealt with the ups and downs of her career, and she reveals the key question that helped her to move on from one of her most difficult moments. We also discuss the behaviours and actions required to be a gold medallist and how this may instill ruthlessness in a team. Finally, Kate explains how she navigated the transition into retirement from being an athlete. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 29 May 2025 05:00:00 -0000 EP66: Kate Richardson-Walsh OBE (Olympic Gold Medallist) full 2 16 Dr Paul Mansell Kate Richardson-Walsh was the captain of Team GB women's hockey side that triumphed at the Rio 2016 games. She's been capped a record 375 times for her country. Kate was awarded an MBE in 2016, an OBE in 2017, and was nominated for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2016. Alongside guest co-host for this episode Helen Richardson-Walsh, Kate and Helen were the first same sex married couple to win an Olympic gold as part of the same team. In this episode, Kate describes the importance of vulnerability as a leader and how this may create a sense of togetherness. She explains how she has dealt with the ups and downs of her career, and she reveals the key question that helped her to move on from one of her most difficult moments. We also discuss the behaviours and actions required to be a gold medallist and how this may instill ruthlessness in a team. Finally, Kate explains how she navigated the transition into retirement from being an athlete. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Kate Richardson-Walsh was the captain of Team GB women's hockey side that triumphed at the Rio 2016 games. She's been capped a record 375 times for her country. Kate was awarded an MBE in 2016, an OBE in 2017, and was nominated for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 2016. Alongside guest co-host for this episode Helen Richardson-Walsh, Kate and Helen were the first same sex married couple to win an Olympic gold as part of the same team.


In this episode, Kate describes the importance of vulnerability as a leader and how this may create a sense of togetherness. She explains how she has dealt with the ups and downs of her career, and she reveals the key question that helped her to move on from one of her most difficult moments. We also discuss the behaviours and actions required to be a gold medallist and how this may instill ruthlessness in a team. Finally, Kate explains how she navigated the transition into retirement from being an athlete.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4640 no EP65: Dr Karla Drew (Lecturer in Sport Psychology and Former Team GB Athlete) Dr Karla Drew is a Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Staffordshire. She is a former Team GB heptathlete and since retiring, has gone on to complete her HCPC sport psychologist accreditation. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Nika Pavic facilitated a conversation with Karla about her experiences across those three different domains. Karla explained her recent experiences in applied research, such as the role of mentoring during the transition from academy to senior football. She explains how she was able to perform under pressure as an international athlete, such as reflecting on her use of visualisation. We also discussed some of the cornerstones of her work as a sport psychologist including the appropriateness of self-disclosure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 22 May 2025 05:15:00 -0000 EP65: Dr Karla Drew (Lecturer in Sport Psychology and Former Team GB Athlete) full 2 15 Dr Paul Mansell Dr Karla Drew is a Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Staffordshire. She is a former Team GB heptathlete and since retiring, has gone on to complete her HCPC sport psychologist accreditation. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Nika Pavic facilitated a conversation with Karla about her experiences across those three different domains. Karla explained her recent experiences in applied research, such as the role of mentoring during the transition from academy to senior football. She explains how she was able to perform under pressure as an international athlete, such as reflecting on her use of visualisation. We also discussed some of the cornerstones of her work as a sport psychologist including the appropriateness of self-disclosure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Karla Drew is a Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Staffordshire. She is a former Team GB heptathlete and since retiring, has gone on to complete her HCPC sport psychologist accreditation. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Nika Pavic facilitated a conversation with Karla about her experiences across those three different domains.


Karla explained her recent experiences in applied research, such as the role of mentoring during the transition from academy to senior football. She explains how she was able to perform under pressure as an international athlete, such as reflecting on her use of visualisation. We also discussed some of the cornerstones of her work as a sport psychologist including the appropriateness of self-disclosure.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4909 no EP64: Ben Williams (Team GB Athlete: Triple Jump) Ben Williams is a triple jumper who represented Team GB at the Tokyo Olympic Games. The Staffordshire-based athlete is also the former World Youth Champion. In this episode, he joins host Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Meg Baldwin to discuss his approach to performing under pressure. Ben describes the importance of having a coach who you can trust, as well as the criteria for people to be in his inner circle. There is a section called 'How do you deal with...', and this features conversations about dealing with success and performance slumps. Ben also explains the 'flea in the jar' analogy and underlines the importance of 'rejection is redirection'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 15 May 2025 05:00:00 -0000 EP64: Ben Williams (Team GB Athlete: Triple Jump) full 2 14 Dr Paul Mansell Ben Williams is a triple jumper who represented Team GB at the Tokyo Olympic Games. The Staffordshire-based athlete is also the former World Youth Champion. In this episode, he joins host Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Meg Baldwin to discuss his approach to performing under pressure. Ben describes the importance of having a coach who you can trust, as well as the criteria for people to be in his inner circle. There is a section called 'How do you deal with...', and this features conversations about dealing with success and performance slumps. Ben also explains the 'flea in the jar' analogy and underlines the importance of 'rejection is redirection'. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Ben Williams is a triple jumper who represented Team GB at the Tokyo Olympic Games. The Staffordshire-based athlete is also the former World Youth Champion. In this episode, he joins host Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Meg Baldwin to discuss his approach to performing under pressure.


Ben describes the importance of having a coach who you can trust, as well as the criteria for people to be in his inner circle. There is a section called 'How do you deal with...', and this features conversations about dealing with success and performance slumps. Ben also explains the 'flea in the jar' analogy and underlines the importance of 'rejection is redirection'.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4088 no EP63: Dr Phil Clarke (Sport Psychologist) Dr Phil Clarke is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Derby and a HCPC registered sport psychologist who has worked in over 30 different sports. Phil joined hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jason Wright to discuss performance under pressure through the lens of his research and applied practice. Much of Phil's published work has centred around 'choking under pressure' and 'the yips'. Phil explains the factors that can predict the breakdown of skilled performance and how we may negate those issues. We discuss the role of self-compassion and grounding techniques in performance, the need to add pressure in training, and effective practice when working with teams and individuals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 08 May 2025 05:00:00 -0000 EP63: Dr Phil Clarke (Sport Psychologist) full 2 13 Dr Paul Mansell Dr Phil Clarke is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Derby and a HCPC registered sport psychologist who has worked in over 30 different sports. Phil joined hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jason Wright to discuss performance under pressure through the lens of his research and applied practice. Much of Phil's published work has centred around 'choking under pressure' and 'the yips'. Phil explains the factors that can predict the breakdown of skilled performance and how we may negate those issues. We discuss the role of self-compassion and grounding techniques in performance, the need to add pressure in training, and effective practice when working with teams and individuals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Phil Clarke is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Derby and a HCPC registered sport psychologist who has worked in over 30 different sports. Phil joined hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Jason Wright to discuss performance under pressure through the lens of his research and applied practice.

Much of Phil's published work has centred around 'choking under pressure' and 'the yips'. Phil explains the factors that can predict the breakdown of skilled performance and how we may negate those issues. We discuss the role of self-compassion and grounding techniques in performance, the need to add pressure in training, and effective practice when working with teams and individuals.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 5151 no EP62: Mark Roberts (Athlete Mentor and Promotion Winning Captain) Mark Roberts joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks in the studio to discuss performing and leading under pressure. Mark has played 700 games in his professional football career and has represented clubs including Fleetwood Town, Stevenage and Cambridge United. He captained Fleetwood and Stevenage to promotions and won the FA Trophy with Stevenage during their rapid ascent up the Football League pyramid. In this episode, we discuss how Mark was able to perform under pressure during his career and how he used various psychological skills as part of his preparation. We also discuss leadership and how it is important to be authentic. Mark now works as a mentor with numerous Football League clubs and he describes the value that this can have for young players as well as for himself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 01 May 2025 05:26:00 -0000 EP62: Mark Roberts (Athlete Mentor and Promotion Winning Captain) full 2 12 Dr Paul Mansell Mark Roberts joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks in the studio to discuss performing and leading under pressure. Mark has played 700 games in his professional football career and has represented clubs including Fleetwood Town, Stevenage and Cambridge United. He captained Fleetwood and Stevenage to promotions and won the FA Trophy with Stevenage during their rapid ascent up the Football League pyramid. In this episode, we discuss how Mark was able to perform under pressure during his career and how he used various psychological skills as part of his preparation. We also discuss leadership and how it is important to be authentic. Mark now works as a mentor with numerous Football League clubs and he describes the value that this can have for young players as well as for himself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Mark Roberts joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks in the studio to discuss performing and leading under pressure. Mark has played 700 games in his professional football career and has represented clubs including Fleetwood Town, Stevenage and Cambridge United. He captained Fleetwood and Stevenage to promotions and won the FA Trophy with Stevenage during their rapid ascent up the Football League pyramid.

In this episode, we discuss how Mark was able to perform under pressure during his career and how he used various psychological skills as part of his preparation. We also discuss leadership and how it is important to be authentic. Mark now works as a mentor with numerous Football League clubs and he describes the value that this can have for young players as well as for himself.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 5363 no EP61: Greg Leigh (Oxford United and Jamaica Defender) Greg Leigh has represented Jamaica on over 20 occasions including playing in the Copa America. He began his career at Manchester City's academy and has since played for numerous clubs including Bury, Bradford City, Aberdeen, Ipswich Town, and Oxford United. In this episode, he explains to Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson about how psychology influences his performance. Greg outlines the role of luck in determining an athlete's career and how he once had to take matters into his own hands when transferring between clubs. Greg highlights the differences between playing in the Championship and at international football, and the need to cultivate an identity beyond being a footballer. As a young player, Greg describes the lightbulb moment of learning that thoughts, feelings, and behaviours were connected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 24 Apr 2025 05:20:00 -0000 EP61: Greg Leigh (Oxford United and Jamaica Defender) full 2 11 Dr Paul Mansell Greg Leigh has represented Jamaica on over 20 occasions including playing in the Copa America. He began his career at Manchester City's academy and has since played for numerous clubs including Bury, Bradford City, Aberdeen, Ipswich Town, and Oxford United. In this episode, he explains to Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson about how psychology influences his performance. Greg outlines the role of luck in determining an athlete's career and how he once had to take matters into his own hands when transferring between clubs. Greg highlights the differences between playing in the Championship and at international football, and the need to cultivate an identity beyond being a footballer. As a young player, Greg describes the lightbulb moment of learning that thoughts, feelings, and behaviours were connected. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Greg Leigh has represented Jamaica on over 20 occasions including playing in the Copa America. He began his career at Manchester City's academy and has since played for numerous clubs including Bury, Bradford City, Aberdeen, Ipswich Town, and Oxford United. In this episode, he explains to Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson about how psychology influences his performance.


Greg outlines the role of luck in determining an athlete's career and how he once had to take matters into his own hands when transferring between clubs. Greg highlights the differences between playing in the Championship and at international football, and the need to cultivate an identity beyond being a footballer. As a young player, Greg describes the lightbulb moment of learning that thoughts, feelings, and behaviours were connected.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4449 no EP60: Nicky Forster (Performance Coach and Former Professional Footballer) Nicky Forster has had a career in professional football spanning over 700 games and has scored over 200 goals for clubs including Reading, Brighton and Hove Albion, Brentford, and Birmingham City to name a few. He now works as a goal setting coach and keynote speaker (https://nickyforster.com). Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater hear Nicky's thoughts on leadership, staying motivating in the demanding climate of professional football, and the use of goal setting strategies to aid adherence to a target. Nicky describes some effective leaders that he has experienced in his career and how he uses elements of their leadership in his own work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:50:00 -0000 full 2 10 Dr Paul Mansell EP60: Nicky Forster (Performance Coach and Former Professional Footballer) Nicky Forster has had a career in professional football spanning over 700 games and has scored over 200 goals for clubs including Reading, Brighton and Hove Albion, Brentford, and Birmingham City to name a few. He now works as a goal setting coach and keynote speaker (https://nickyforster.com). Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater hear Nicky's thoughts on leadership, staying motivating in the demanding climate of professional football, and the use of goal setting strategies to aid adherence to a target. Nicky describes some effective leaders that he has experienced in his career and how he uses elements of their leadership in his own work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Nicky Forster has had a career in professional football spanning over 700 games and has scored over 200 goals for clubs including Reading, Brighton and Hove Albion, Brentford, and Birmingham City to name a few. He now works as a goal setting coach and keynote speaker (https://nickyforster.com).


Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater hear Nicky's thoughts on leadership, staying motivating in the demanding climate of professional football, and the use of goal setting strategies to aid adherence to a target. Nicky describes some effective leaders that he has experienced in his career and how he uses elements of their leadership in his own work.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4296 no EP59: Robbie Udberg (Former Head of Player Development and Performance at Chelsea Women FC) Robbie Udberg is the former Head of Player Development and Performance at Chelsea Women FC and now is the Co-Director of CHX Challenge and CHX Performance. Having had more than a decade of experience in performance at the top level of the game, he is well placed to describe the role of leadership in performing under pressure. Speaking with host Dr Paul Mansell, Robbie explains the importance of the design of the physical space at an organisation and how this can foster togetherness. He worked alongside current USA women's national team manager Emma Hayes. As one of the most respected leaders in the game, Robbie shares insight into what makes Emma a great leader. We also discuss how to enhance togetherness through psychological work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 10 Apr 2025 05:40:00 -0000 EP59: Robbie Udberg (Former Head of Player Development and Performance at Chelsea Women FC) full 2 9 Dr Paul Mansell Robbie Udberg is the former Head of Player Development and Performance at Chelsea Women FC and now is the Co-Director of CHX Challenge and CHX Performance. Having had more than a decade of experience in performance at the top level of the game, he is well placed to describe the role of leadership in performing under pressure. Speaking with host Dr Paul Mansell, Robbie explains the importance of the design of the physical space at an organisation and how this can foster togetherness. He worked alongside current USA women's national team manager Emma Hayes. As one of the most respected leaders in the game, Robbie shares insight into what makes Emma a great leader. We also discuss how to enhance togetherness through psychological work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Robbie Udberg is the former Head of Player Development and Performance at Chelsea Women FC and now is the Co-Director of CHX Challenge and CHX Performance. Having had more than a decade of experience in performance at the top level of the game, he is well placed to describe the role of leadership in performing under pressure.

Speaking with host Dr Paul Mansell, Robbie explains the importance of the design of the physical space at an organisation and how this can foster togetherness. He worked alongside current USA women's national team manager Emma Hayes. As one of the most respected leaders in the game, Robbie shares insight into what makes Emma a great leader. We also discuss how to enhance togetherness through psychological work.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4499 no EP58: Danny Schofield (Assistant Coach of Central Coast Mariners and Ex Professional Footballer) Danny Schofield is our guest on this episode. Joining us all the way from Australia where he is currently coaching in the A-League and Asian Champions League, Danny explains some of the key features of his coaching style to Dr Paul Mansell and Sam Westley. Danny also has experience of coaching in the UK and is the former Head Coach of Huddersfield Town and Doncaster Rovers. Danny draws on his experience as an ex-professional footballer, amassing over 400 career appearances at clubs including Huddersfield Town, Millwall, Rotherham United and Yeovil. In this episode, we discuss the culture Danny is helping to create at Central Coast Mariners and how he aims to maximise half-time. He describes his use of visualisation in his career, how to deal with the difficulty of losing his job and how to involve players who are suffering with long-term injuries. We also hear about how Danny is getting on with his MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 03 Apr 2025 05:40:00 -0000 EP58: Danny Schofield (Assistant Coach of Central Coast Mariners) full 2 8 Dr Paul Mansell Danny Schofield is our guest on this episode. Joining us all the way from Australia where he is currently coaching in the A-League and Asian Champions League, Danny explains some of the key features of his coaching style to Dr Paul Mansell and Sam Westley. Danny also has experience of coaching in the UK and is the former Head Coach of Huddersfield Town and Doncaster Rovers. Danny draws on his experience as an ex-professional footballer, amassing over 400 career appearances at clubs including Huddersfield Town, Millwall, Rotherham United and Yeovil. In this episode, we discuss the culture Danny is helping to create at Central Coast Mariners and how he aims to maximise half-time. He describes his use of visualisation in his career, how to deal with the difficulty of losing his job and how to involve players who are suffering with long-term injuries. We also hear about how Danny is getting on with his MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Danny Schofield is our guest on this episode. Joining us all the way from Australia where he is currently coaching in the A-League and Asian Champions League, Danny explains some of the key features of his coaching style to Dr Paul Mansell and Sam Westley. Danny also has experience of coaching in the UK and is the former Head Coach of Huddersfield Town and Doncaster Rovers. Danny draws on his experience as an ex-professional footballer, amassing over 400 career appearances at clubs including Huddersfield Town, Millwall, Rotherham United and Yeovil.

In this episode, we discuss the culture Danny is helping to create at Central Coast Mariners and how he aims to maximise half-time. He describes his use of visualisation in his career, how to deal with the difficulty of losing his job and how to involve players who are suffering with long-term injuries. We also hear about how Danny is getting on with his MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3921 no EP57: Adam Evans (CEO of Staffordshire FA) Adam Evans is the CEO of Staffordshire Football Association - an organisation with over 1,700 teams, 30,000 players and 800 referees. An episode focused very much on leadership and culture, Adam explains to Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell about how he is creating a culture that can drive the organisation forward. Using Matt's experience in leadership and togetherness, a social identity lens is applied to the conversation. Adam sees the organisation's role as important in terms of 'serving the game'. Staffordshire FA are led by their values which are based upon 'active verbs' rather than 'dead nouns'. Adam explains how he is able to make difficult decisions such as recruiting the right people, and the trio discuss the power of reflection in effective leadership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 27 Mar 2025 06:40:00 -0000 EP57: Adam Evans (CEO of Staffordshire FA) full 2 7 Dr Paul Mansell Adam Evans is the CEO of Staffordshire Football Association - an organisation with over 1,700 teams, 30,000 players and 800 referees. An episode focused very much on leadership and culture, Adam explains to Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell about how he is creating a culture that can drive the organisation forward. Using Matt's experience in leadership and togetherness, a social identity lens is applied to the conversation. Adam sees the organisation's role as important in terms of 'serving the game'. Staffordshire FA are led by their values which are based upon 'active verbs' rather than 'dead nouns'. Adam explains how he is able to make difficult decisions such as recruiting the right people, and the trio discuss the power of reflection in effective leadership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Adam Evans is the CEO of Staffordshire Football Association - an organisation with over 1,700 teams, 30,000 players and 800 referees. An episode focused very much on leadership and culture, Adam explains to Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell about how he is creating a culture that can drive the organisation forward.


Using Matt's experience in leadership and togetherness, a social identity lens is applied to the conversation. Adam sees the organisation's role as important in terms of 'serving the game'. Staffordshire FA are led by their values which are based upon 'active verbs' rather than 'dead nouns'. Adam explains how he is able to make difficult decisions such as recruiting the right people, and the trio discuss the power of reflection in effective leadership.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4906 no EP56: Jacob Brown (Luton Town and Scotland Forward) Joining Dr Paul Mansell for this episode is Luton Town and Scotland forward Jacob Brown. Jacob is approaching 300 professional appearances including spells at Barnsley, Chesterfield and Stoke City. Recorded at Luton Town's training ground, Jacob is very candid about how psychology influences his performance. He reflects on how a serious injury changed the way he thought about his career beyond being a footballer, and how he is using education and business interests to aid his personal development. Jacob bravely opens up about some recent struggles off the pitch. He explains how this affected him on the pitch and how he was able to move forward from this issue. Jacob uses a multitude of strategies to put him in the best place to perform well including gratitude, breathwork, and utilising support from those closest to him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 20 Mar 2025 06:10:00 -0000 EP56: Jacob Brown (Luton Town and Scotland Forward) full 2 6 Dr Paul Mansell Joining Dr Paul Mansell for this episode is Luton Town and Scotland forward Jacob Brown. Jacob is approaching 300 professional appearances including spells at Barnsley, Chesterfield and Stoke City. Recorded at Luton Town's training ground, Jacob is very candid about how psychology influences his performance. He reflects on how a serious injury changed the way he thought about his career beyond being a footballer, and how he is using education and business interests to aid his personal development. Jacob bravely opens up about some recent struggles off the pitch. He explains how this affected him on the pitch and how he was able to move forward from this issue. Jacob uses a multitude of strategies to put him in the best place to perform well including gratitude, breathwork, and utilising support from those closest to him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Joining Dr Paul Mansell for this episode is Luton Town and Scotland forward Jacob Brown. Jacob is approaching 300 professional appearances including spells at Barnsley, Chesterfield and Stoke City.

Recorded at Luton Town's training ground, Jacob is very candid about how psychology influences his performance. He reflects on how a serious injury changed the way he thought about his career beyond being a footballer, and how he is using education and business interests to aid his personal development.

Jacob bravely opens up about some recent struggles off the pitch. He explains how this affected him on the pitch and how he was able to move forward from this issue. Jacob uses a multitude of strategies to put him in the best place to perform well including gratitude, breathwork, and utilising support from those closest to him.

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]]> 4443 no EP55: Professor Andy Lane (Sport Psychologist) Professor Andy Lane is our guest in the studio as we discuss his applied work and research in performance and wellbeing in athletes. Joining hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Karla Drew, we discuss self-efficacy in performance, how to cope psychologically with endurance events, and the importance of creating interest and engagement in applied work. Based at The University of Wolverhampton, Andy describes some of the highlights and challenges he has experienced when working with athletes from sailors to boxers. The trio also discuss the importance of good-quality research. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 13 Mar 2025 06:50:00 -0000 full 2 5 Dr Paul Mansell EP55: Professor Andy Lane (Sport Psychologist) Professor Andy Lane is our guest in the studio as we discuss his applied work and research in performance and wellbeing in athletes. Joining hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Karla Drew, we discuss self-efficacy in performance, how to cope psychologically with endurance events, and the importance of creating interest and engagement in applied work. Based at The University of Wolverhampton, Andy describes some of the highlights and challenges he has experienced when working with athletes from sailors to boxers. The trio also discuss the importance of good-quality research. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Professor Andy Lane is our guest in the studio as we discuss his applied work and research in performance and wellbeing in athletes. Joining hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Karla Drew, we discuss self-efficacy in performance, how to cope psychologically with endurance events, and the importance of creating interest and engagement in applied work.

Based at The University of Wolverhampton, Andy describes some of the highlights and challenges he has experienced when working with athletes from sailors to boxers. The trio also discuss the importance of good-quality research.

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]]> 5193 EP54: Dr Sofie Kent (Senior Lecturer in Sport Psychology) In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell is joined by sport psychology academic and practitioner Dr Sofie Kent. Sofie is a Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Leeds Beckett University and has an excellent track record of publishing peer-reviewed articles about performing under pressure. Sofie's published work includes topics such as assessing performance under pressure, career transitions such as loan transfers, and the experiences of romantic partners in elite sport. For instance, Sofie outlines how romantic partners are often overlooked in elite sport, the difficulties they face on a personal level, and how clubs can support them as a integral component in their partner's lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 06 Mar 2025 06:50:00 -0000 EP54: Dr Sofie Kent (Senior Lecturer in Sport Psychology) full 2 4 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell is joined by sport psychology academic and practitioner Dr Sofie Kent. Sofie is a Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Leeds Beckett University and has an excellent track record of publishing peer-reviewed articles about performing under pressure. Sofie's published work includes topics such as assessing performance under pressure, career transitions such as loan transfers, and the experiences of romantic partners in elite sport. For instance, Sofie outlines how romantic partners are often overlooked in elite sport, the difficulties they face on a personal level, and how clubs can support them as a integral component in their partner's lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell is joined by sport psychology academic and practitioner Dr Sofie Kent. Sofie is a Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Leeds Beckett University and has an excellent track record of publishing peer-reviewed articles about performing under pressure.

Sofie's published work includes topics such as assessing performance under pressure, career transitions such as loan transfers, and the experiences of romantic partners in elite sport. For instance, Sofie outlines how romantic partners are often overlooked in elite sport, the difficulties they face on a personal level, and how clubs can support them as a integral component in their partner's lives.

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]]> 3646 no EP53: Mackenzie Cherry (Valadares Gaia Footballer) Mackenzie Cherry is our guest in this special international episode of the Performing Under Pressure podcast that was recorded at the University of Porto. Mackenzie is a defender for Portuguese top-flight outfit Valadares Gaia. A team looking to challenge the traditional big teams in women's football in Portugal such as Benfica, Mackenzie describes her journey from college football in America to Portugal via Iceland to Dr Paul Mansell. A highly reflective guest, Mackenzie provides a range of useful perspectives about performance. She outlines her self-talk that helps her to deal with mistakes, the importance of working on your psychology even when things are going well, and how it is possible to have fun even when the nerves are kicking in. As an international athlete living in Portugal, Mackenzie tells us the importance of a group being inclusive and how social bonding exercises can play a role in this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 27 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 EP53: Mackenzie Cherry (Valadares Gaia Footballer) full 2 3 Dr Paul Mansell Professional footballer Mackenzie Cherry describes how she is able to perform well under pressure in the top division of women's football in Portugal Mackenzie Cherry is our guest in this special international episode of the Performing Under Pressure podcast that was recorded at the University of Porto. Mackenzie is a defender for Portuguese top-flight outfit Valadares Gaia. A team looking to challenge the traditional big teams in women's football in Portugal such as Benfica, Mackenzie describes her journey from college football in America to Portugal via Iceland to Dr Paul Mansell. A highly reflective guest, Mackenzie provides a range of useful perspectives about performance. She outlines her self-talk that helps her to deal with mistakes, the importance of working on your psychology even when things are going well, and how it is possible to have fun even when the nerves are kicking in. As an international athlete living in Portugal, Mackenzie tells us the importance of a group being inclusive and how social bonding exercises can play a role in this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Mackenzie Cherry is our guest in this special international episode of the Performing Under Pressure podcast that was recorded at the University of Porto. Mackenzie is a defender for Portuguese top-flight outfit Valadares Gaia. A team looking to challenge the traditional big teams in women's football in Portugal such as Benfica, Mackenzie describes her journey from college football in America to Portugal via Iceland to Dr Paul Mansell.


A highly reflective guest, Mackenzie provides a range of useful perspectives about performance. She outlines her self-talk that helps her to deal with mistakes, the importance of working on your psychology even when things are going well, and how it is possible to have fun even when the nerves are kicking in. As an international athlete living in Portugal, Mackenzie tells us the importance of a group being inclusive and how social bonding exercises can play a role in this.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4038 no EP52: Melissa Dhillon (Performance Psychologist) Melissa Dhillon is a performance psychologist and owner of Athletes in the Zone. She has experience of working with Aston Villa FC, Birmingham City FC, Salford City FC, the LTA and with corporate clients such as Julius Baer and Circle Rehabilitation. In this episode, she reveals to Dr Paul Mansell some of the strategies she finds to be effective when working with athletes, and how this might differ to working in an occupational setting. The discussion includes the importance of intuition, responding to adversity, staying focused under pressure and working with parents. Melissa also shares how she is able to make the seemingly intangible components of her work more tangible! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 20 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 EP52: Melissa Dhillon (Performance Psychologist) full 2 2 Dr Paul Mansell Melissa reflects on the strategies she uses in her applied sport psychology work Melissa Dhillon is a performance psychologist and owner of Athletes in the Zone. She has experience of working with Aston Villa FC, Birmingham City FC, Salford City FC, the LTA and with corporate clients such as Julius Baer and Circle Rehabilitation. In this episode, she reveals to Dr Paul Mansell some of the strategies she finds to be effective when working with athletes, and how this might differ to working in an occupational setting. The discussion includes the importance of intuition, responding to adversity, staying focused under pressure and working with parents. Melissa also shares how she is able to make the seemingly intangible components of her work more tangible! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Melissa Dhillon is a performance psychologist and owner of Athletes in the Zone. She has experience of working with Aston Villa FC, Birmingham City FC, Salford City FC, the LTA and with corporate clients such as Julius Baer and Circle Rehabilitation. In this episode, she reveals to Dr Paul Mansell some of the strategies she finds to be effective when working with athletes, and how this might differ to working in an occupational setting.


The discussion includes the importance of intuition, responding to adversity, staying focused under pressure and working with parents. Melissa also shares how she is able to make the seemingly intangible components of her work more tangible!

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]]> 4150 no EP51: Lee Burch (Rugby Borough Women Football Club Manager) Lee Burch is the Manager of Rugby Borough Women Football Club. Aiming for promotion to the second tier of women's football, Rugby Borough are an upwardly mobile club, typified by their progress on and off the pitch. Lee has managed in the Women's Super League and the Championship and is a UEFA A License holder. Speaking with Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks, Lee describes how he uses routines to allow him to perform under pressure. The trio also discuss the role of half-time, how a sense of family is created at Rugby Borough, how to prepare for games that carry extra importance, and how injured players remain part of the squad even when they are unavailable for selection. Lee champions the role of constant learning and embraces CPD opportunities in the game. On a lighter note, there is a also a discussion about the best sort of crisps! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 13 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Lee Burch (Rugby Borough Women Football Club Manager) full 2 1 Dr Paul Mansell Lee Burch chats to Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks about he performs under pressure and how he helps his team to perform Lee Burch is the Manager of Rugby Borough Women Football Club. Aiming for promotion to the second tier of women's football, Rugby Borough are an upwardly mobile club, typified by their progress on and off the pitch. Lee has managed in the Women's Super League and the Championship and is a UEFA A License holder. Speaking with Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks, Lee describes how he uses routines to allow him to perform under pressure. The trio also discuss the role of half-time, how a sense of family is created at Rugby Borough, how to prepare for games that carry extra importance, and how injured players remain part of the squad even when they are unavailable for selection. Lee champions the role of constant learning and embraces CPD opportunities in the game. On a lighter note, there is a also a discussion about the best sort of crisps! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lee Burch is the Manager of Rugby Borough Women Football Club. Aiming for promotion to the second tier of women's football, Rugby Borough are an upwardly mobile club, typified by their progress on and off the pitch. Lee has managed in the Women's Super League and the Championship and is a UEFA A License holder.


Speaking with Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks, Lee describes how he uses routines to allow him to perform under pressure. The trio also discuss the role of half-time, how a sense of family is created at Rugby Borough, how to prepare for games that carry extra importance, and how injured players remain part of the squad even when they are unavailable for selection. Lee champions the role of constant learning and embraces CPD opportunities in the game. On a lighter note, there is a also a discussion about the best sort of crisps!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4326 no EP50: Chris Shambrook (Expert in Performance Psychology) In our final episode of series 1, we had the pleasure of chatting to Chris Shambrook. It was double delight as we welcomed Dr Martin Turner back into the studio as co-host for this episode, too. Chris is an inspiring guy with an amazing amount of experience as a psychology practitioner across a range of contexts. Chris has worked at 5 Olympic games supporting one of Team GB’s most enduringly successful sports, combined with his 25 years of supporting leaders and performers in occupational settings.There’s lots of gold in this episode – be sure to check it out and let us know your thoughts. Pressure is part and parcel of being ambitious and Chris shares how can we best make psychology impactful. How can we connect our offer to the needs of teams and individuals? How can we be curious about performance under pressure? We also discuss how we can be critical with our thinking and translate this into simple and powerful tools with performers to make a real difference.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 16 Jan 2025 07:45:00 -0000 full 1 50 Dr Paul Mansell In our final episode of series 1, we had the pleasure of chatting to Chris Shambrook. It was double delight as we welcomed Dr Martin Turner back into the studio as co-host for this episode, too. Chris is an inspiring guy with an amazing amount of experience as a psychology practitioner across a range of contexts. Chris has worked at 5 Olympic games supporting one of Team GB’s most enduringly successful sports, combined with his 25 years of supporting leaders and performers in occupational settings.There’s lots of gold in this episode – be sure to check it out and let us know your thoughts. Pressure is part and parcel of being ambitious and Chris shares how can we best make psychology impactful. How can we connect our offer to the needs of teams and individuals? How can we be curious about performance under pressure? We also discuss how we can be critical with our thinking and translate this into simple and powerful tools with performers to make a real difference.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In our final episode of series 1, we had the pleasure of chatting to Chris Shambrook. It was double delight as we welcomed Dr Martin Turner back into the studio as co-host for this episode, too.

Chris is an inspiring guy with an amazing amount of experience as a psychology practitioner across a range of contexts. Chris has worked at 5 Olympic games supporting one of Team GB’s most enduringly successful sports, combined with his 25 years of supporting leaders and performers in occupational settings.There’s lots of gold in this episode – be sure to check it out and let us know your thoughts.

Pressure is part and parcel of being ambitious and Chris shares how can we best make psychology impactful. How can we connect our offer to the needs of teams and individuals? How can we be curious about performance under pressure? We also discuss how we can be critical with our thinking and translate this into simple and powerful tools with performers to make a real difference. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4705 no EP49: Professor Tracey Devonport (Sport Psychologist) Professor Tracey Devonport from the Univeristy of Wolverhampton joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss her knowledge and experiences of performance under pressure. Tracey is a HCPC registered sport psychologist and has had an extensive research career with over 100 publications to her name. In this episode, there is a focus on the role of mentoring in facilitating performance under pressure, and Tracey outlines the key characteristics of effective mentoring. She also discusses the nature of coping and whist reflecting on her previous research as well as her current work, we discuss the need to prepare athletes for key transitions they are likely to encounter in their sporting career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 09 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000 Professor Tracey Devonport (Sport Psychologist) full 1 49 Dr Paul Mansell Professor Tracey Devonport from the Univeristy of Wolverhampton joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss her knowledge and experiences of performance under pressure. Professor Tracey Devonport from the Univeristy of Wolverhampton joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss her knowledge and experiences of performance under pressure. Tracey is a HCPC registered sport psychologist and has had an extensive research career with over 100 publications to her name. In this episode, there is a focus on the role of mentoring in facilitating performance under pressure, and Tracey outlines the key characteristics of effective mentoring. She also discusses the nature of coping and whist reflecting on her previous research as well as her current work, we discuss the need to prepare athletes for key transitions they are likely to encounter in their sporting career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Professor Tracey Devonport from the Univeristy of Wolverhampton joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss her knowledge and experiences of performance under pressure.


Tracey is a HCPC registered sport psychologist and has had an extensive research career with over 100 publications to her name. In this episode, there is a focus on the role of mentoring in facilitating performance under pressure, and Tracey outlines the key characteristics of effective mentoring.


She also discusses the nature of coping and whist reflecting on her previous research as well as her current work, we discuss the need to prepare athletes for key transitions they are likely to encounter in their sporting career.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3922 EP48: Ryan Cockbill (Paralympic Shooter) Ryan Cockbill is a Paralympic shooter and has taken part in four Paralympic Games dating back to London 2012. In 2022, he won a silver medal the European Championships and a bronze at the World Championships. In this episode, he describes to Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks about how he focuses to perform well in a sport that demands precision and control. This includes the need for automaticity from his training, attention towards the process rather than the outcome, and the need to reflect on performance in an adaptive way. Ryan describes the purpose of planning in terms of your energy levels in and around the time of a Paralympic Games and how to deal with the challenges of moving on from the Games once they are over. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 02 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0000 Ryan Cockbill (Paralympic Shooter) full Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Ryan describes to Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks about how he focuses to perform well in a sport that demands precision and control. Ryan Cockbill is a Paralympic shooter and has taken part in four Paralympic Games dating back to London 2012. In 2022, he won a silver medal the European Championships and a bronze at the World Championships. In this episode, he describes to Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks about how he focuses to perform well in a sport that demands precision and control. This includes the need for automaticity from his training, attention towards the process rather than the outcome, and the need to reflect on performance in an adaptive way. Ryan describes the purpose of planning in terms of your energy levels in and around the time of a Paralympic Games and how to deal with the challenges of moving on from the Games once they are over. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Ryan Cockbill is a Paralympic shooter and has taken part in four Paralympic Games dating back to London 2012. In 2022, he won a silver medal the European Championships and a bronze at the World Championships.


In this episode, he describes to Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks about how he focuses to perform well in a sport that demands precision and control. This includes the need for automaticity from his training, attention towards the process rather than the outcome, and the need to reflect on performance in an adaptive way.


Ryan describes the purpose of planning in terms of your energy levels in and around the time of a Paralympic Games and how to deal with the challenges of moving on from the Games once they are over.

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]]> 3080 EP47: Luther James-Wildin (Defender for Stevenage FC) Luther James-Wildin is a defender for League One Stevenage and has made over 250 appearances in his career. He joined Dr Paul Mansell and ex-Plymouth Argyle striker Jake Jervis in the studio to discuss several topics that relate to performance under pressure. Luther is also the Founder and CEO of Wildin Ventures Ltd and the Players Property Partners, and an important topic of conversation was the need to cultivate an identity beyond being a footballer. Luther speaks about the role of confidence and pre-match preparation in determining performance, and how you don't always need to be confident to perform well. The trio also speak about leadership, and Luther shares his views on effective leadership and the need for togetherness within a football club. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000 full 1 47 Dr Paul Mansell Luther James-Wildin is a defender for League One Stevenage and has made over 250 appearances in his career. He joined Dr Paul Mansell and ex-Plymouth Argyle striker Jake Jervis in the studio to discuss several topics that relate to performance under pressure. Luther is also the Founder and CEO of Wildin Ventures Ltd and the Players Property Partners, and an important topic of conversation was the need to cultivate an identity beyond being a footballer. Luther speaks about the role of confidence and pre-match preparation in determining performance, and how you don't always need to be confident to perform well. The trio also speak about leadership, and Luther shares his views on effective leadership and the need for togetherness within a football club. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Luther James-Wildin is a defender for League One Stevenage and has made over 250 appearances in his career. He joined Dr Paul Mansell and ex-Plymouth Argyle striker Jake Jervis in the studio to discuss several topics that relate to performance under pressure. Luther is also the Founder and CEO of Wildin Ventures Ltd and the Players Property Partners, and an important topic of conversation was the need to cultivate an identity beyond being a footballer. Luther speaks about the role of confidence and pre-match preparation in determining performance, and how you don't always need to be confident to perform well. The trio also speak about leadership, and Luther shares his views on effective leadership and the need for togetherness within a football club.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4099 no EP46: Azeem Amir (Footballer for England's Blind Team) Azeem Amir is a footballer for the England men's blind team. In this episode, he tells Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon about his journey into football, his business ventures that seek to help others learn more about disabilities, and his pride in representing his country at the European and World Championships. Azeem utilises many strategies to facilitate performance under pressure such as choosing a helpful mindset, focusing on the process rather than the outcome, and dealing with mistakes through recognising that there is no pause or rewind button. He explains of the need to switch between 'drone view' and 'Go Pro view' to help him when he is out on the pitch. For more information on Azeem's business, check out: https://www.learnwithess.com/.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 12 Dec 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Azeem Amir (Footballer for England's Blind Team) full 1 46 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Azeem tells Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon about his journey into football, his business ventures that seek to help others learn more about disabilities. Azeem Amir is a footballer for the England men's blind team. In this episode, he tells Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon about his journey into football, his business ventures that seek to help others learn more about disabilities, and his pride in representing his country at the European and World Championships. Azeem utilises many strategies to facilitate performance under pressure such as choosing a helpful mindset, focusing on the process rather than the outcome, and dealing with mistakes through recognising that there is no pause or rewind button. He explains of the need to switch between 'drone view' and 'Go Pro view' to help him when he is out on the pitch. For more information on Azeem's business, check out: https://www.learnwithess.com/.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Azeem Amir is a footballer for the England men's blind team. In this episode, he tells Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon about his journey into football, his business ventures that seek to help others learn more about disabilities, and his pride in representing his country at the European and World Championships.


Azeem utilises many strategies to facilitate performance under pressure such as choosing a helpful mindset, focusing on the process rather than the outcome, and dealing with mistakes through recognising that there is no pause or rewind button. He explains of the need to switch between 'drone view' and 'Go Pro view' to help him when he is out on the pitch.


For more information on Azeem's business, check out: https://www.learnwithess.com/. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4439 no EP45: Josh Gordon (Walsall FC Striker) Josh Gordon is a forward for Walsall and has had a really interesting journey to becoming a professional footballer. Whilst completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Staffordshire, Josh was playing non-league football for clubs such as Stafford Rangers and Nantwich Town when current Premier League Champions Leicester City came calling. He has since represented Barrow and Burton Albion, and in this episode, he reflects on numerous topics related to performing under pressure with host Dr Paul Mansell and special guest co-host Jamille Matt. Jamille is Josh's teammate at Walsall and the two footballers discuss how confidence is formulated and maintained as a striker, the need for identity beyond being a footballer, and how togetherness can be enhanced within a football club. Josh describes how he likes to be led, such as making individuals feel valued as part of the group, and describes his rational perspective towards taking penalties.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 05 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0000 Josh Gordon (Walsall FC striker) full 1 45 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Josh reflects on numerous topics related to performing under pressure with host Dr Paul Mansell and special guest co-host Jamille Matt. Josh Gordon is a forward for Walsall and has had a really interesting journey to becoming a professional footballer. Whilst completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Staffordshire, Josh was playing non-league football for clubs such as Stafford Rangers and Nantwich Town when current Premier League Champions Leicester City came calling. He has since represented Barrow and Burton Albion, and in this episode, he reflects on numerous topics related to performing under pressure with host Dr Paul Mansell and special guest co-host Jamille Matt. Jamille is Josh's teammate at Walsall and the two footballers discuss how confidence is formulated and maintained as a striker, the need for identity beyond being a footballer, and how togetherness can be enhanced within a football club. Josh describes how he likes to be led, such as making individuals feel valued as part of the group, and describes his rational perspective towards taking penalties.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Josh Gordon is a forward for Walsall and has had a really interesting journey to becoming a professional footballer. Whilst completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Staffordshire, Josh was playing non-league football for clubs such as Stafford Rangers and Nantwich Town when current Premier League Champions Leicester City came calling.


He has since represented Barrow and Burton Albion, and in this episode, he reflects on numerous topics related to performing under pressure with host Dr Paul Mansell and special guest co-host Jamille Matt.


Jamille is Josh's teammate at Walsall and the two footballers discuss how confidence is formulated and maintained as a striker, the need for identity beyond being a footballer, and how togetherness can be enhanced within a football club.


Josh describes how he likes to be led, such as making individuals feel valued as part of the group, and describes his rational perspective towards taking penalties. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4112 EP44: Joe Ford (Doncaster Knights RFC Head Coach) Joe Ford is a former Premiership rugby player and has represented clubs such as Sale Sharks and Leicester Tigers. He is now the head coach of Doncaster Knights, and in this episode, he tells Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Jason Wright about his approach to leadership in great detail. Joe really values the contribution that psychology makes to individual and collective performance, and he gives us some great insights into how to create an adaptive culture for performance and to how a senior leadership team can be utilised among the players. He also describes how he used techniques such as imagery and breath work in his career as an elite rugby player, and how he continues to use breath work as one of strategies to support his wellbeing on a daily basis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 28 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Joe Ford (Doncaster Knights RFC Head Coach) full 1 44 Dr Paul Mansell Joe is the head coach of Doncaster Knights, and in this episode, he tells Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Jason Wright about his approach to leadership in great detail. Joe Ford is a former Premiership rugby player and has represented clubs such as Sale Sharks and Leicester Tigers. He is now the head coach of Doncaster Knights, and in this episode, he tells Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Jason Wright about his approach to leadership in great detail. Joe really values the contribution that psychology makes to individual and collective performance, and he gives us some great insights into how to create an adaptive culture for performance and to how a senior leadership team can be utilised among the players. He also describes how he used techniques such as imagery and breath work in his career as an elite rugby player, and how he continues to use breath work as one of strategies to support his wellbeing on a daily basis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Joe Ford is a former Premiership rugby player and has represented clubs such as Sale Sharks and Leicester Tigers.


He is now the head coach of Doncaster Knights, and in this episode, he tells Dr Paul Mansell and co-host Jason Wright about his approach to leadership in great detail. Joe really values the contribution that psychology makes to individual and collective performance, and he gives us some great insights into how to create an adaptive culture for performance and to how a senior leadership team can be utilised among the players.


He also describes how he used techniques such as imagery and breath work in his career as an elite rugby player, and how he continues to use breath work as one of strategies to support his wellbeing on a daily basis.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4174 EP43: Emma Biggin (Trainee Sport Psychologist) Emma Biggin is a trainee sport psychologist, University of Staffordshire MSc graduate, and owner of the ‘Bigs’ Sport Psych psychology consultancy. In this episode with Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater, Emma speaks about what it means to be a sport psychologist as well as gives an insight into the strategies and techniques she has used so far when working with athletes and their coaching staff. In particular, Emma delves into the ways in which she aims to make sport psychology accessible, meaningful, and effective for the people with which she works. We discuss strategies that may be used pre- and post-performance, as well as those during, to help athletes to be successful. Emma presents her approach to practice, explaining how she aims to translate psychology into the language of the recipient through designing games and drills with psychological underpinnings to not only help convey a message, but with the aim of having fun in the process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 21 Nov 2024 08:20:00 -0000 Emma Biggin (Trainee Sport Psychologist) full 1 43 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode with Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater, Emma speaks about what it means to be a sport psychologist as well as gives an insight into the strategies and techniques she has used so far when working with athletes and their coaching staff. Emma Biggin is a trainee sport psychologist, University of Staffordshire MSc graduate, and owner of the ‘Bigs’ Sport Psych psychology consultancy. In this episode with Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater, Emma speaks about what it means to be a sport psychologist as well as gives an insight into the strategies and techniques she has used so far when working with athletes and their coaching staff. In particular, Emma delves into the ways in which she aims to make sport psychology accessible, meaningful, and effective for the people with which she works. We discuss strategies that may be used pre- and post-performance, as well as those during, to help athletes to be successful. Emma presents her approach to practice, explaining how she aims to translate psychology into the language of the recipient through designing games and drills with psychological underpinnings to not only help convey a message, but with the aim of having fun in the process. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Emma Biggin is a trainee sport psychologist, University of Staffordshire MSc graduate, and owner of the ‘Bigs’ Sport Psych psychology consultancy. In this episode with Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater, Emma speaks about what it means to be a sport psychologist as well as gives an insight into the strategies and techniques she has used so far when working with athletes and their coaching staff.


In particular, Emma delves into the ways in which she aims to make sport psychology accessible, meaningful, and effective for the people with which she works. We discuss strategies that may be used pre- and post-performance, as well as those during, to help athletes to be successful.


Emma presents her approach to practice, explaining how she aims to translate psychology into the language of the recipient through designing games and drills with psychological underpinnings to not only help convey a message, but with the aim of having fun in the process.

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]]> 3592 no EP42: Paul McVeigh (Former Norwich and Northern Ireland footballer) Paul McVeigh is a former Premier League and international footballer, and in this episode, he joins Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson in the studio. Paul began his career at Tottenham Hotspur, made over 200 appearances for Norwich City and also represented Burnley and Luton Town. Paul won 20 caps for Northern Ireland before turning his attention to the psychology of performing under pressure. Combining the experiences from playing alongside and against some Premier League legends such as Jurgen Klinsmann, Gianfranco Zola and Thierry Henry, with a MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology from the University of Staffordshire, Paul now works with multinational companies to enhance performance, wellbeing and leadership. In this episode, Paul reflects on the approaches he used in his career to aid his performance as well as detailing the strategies he finds effective when working with businesses now. Paul has also written 'The Stupid Footballer is Dead' and has a website that showcases his applied work: https://paulmcveigh.com/.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 14 Nov 2024 09:39:00 -0000 Paul McVeigh (Former Norwich and Northern Ireland footballer) full 1 42 Dr Paul Mansell Paul McVeigh is a former Premier League and international footballer, and in this episode, he joins Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson in the studio. Paul McVeigh is a former Premier League and international footballer, and in this episode, he joins Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson in the studio. Paul began his career at Tottenham Hotspur, made over 200 appearances for Norwich City and also represented Burnley and Luton Town. Paul won 20 caps for Northern Ireland before turning his attention to the psychology of performing under pressure. Combining the experiences from playing alongside and against some Premier League legends such as Jurgen Klinsmann, Gianfranco Zola and Thierry Henry, with a MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology from the University of Staffordshire, Paul now works with multinational companies to enhance performance, wellbeing and leadership. In this episode, Paul reflects on the approaches he used in his career to aid his performance as well as detailing the strategies he finds effective when working with businesses now. Paul has also written 'The Stupid Footballer is Dead' and has a website that showcases his applied work: https://paulmcveigh.com/.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Paul McVeigh is a former Premier League and international footballer, and in this episode, he joins Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson in the studio.


Paul began his career at Tottenham Hotspur, made over 200 appearances for Norwich City and also represented Burnley and Luton Town. Paul won 20 caps for Northern Ireland before turning his attention to the psychology of performing under pressure.


Combining the experiences from playing alongside and against some Premier League legends such as Jurgen Klinsmann, Gianfranco Zola and Thierry Henry, with a MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology from the University of Staffordshire, Paul now works with multinational companies to enhance performance, wellbeing and leadership. In this episode, Paul reflects on the approaches he used in his career to aid his performance as well as detailing the strategies he finds effective when working with businesses now.


Paul has also written 'The Stupid Footballer is Dead' and has a website that showcases his applied work: https://paulmcveigh.com/. 

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]]> 4775 no EP41: Lizzie Lewandowski (West Midlands Police Football Unit Sergeant) Lizzie Lewandowski is our guest in the studio in episode 40. A Sargent of the West Midlands Police Football Unit, Lizzie has had an extensive career in dealing with situations of high pressure. Lizzie has worked at the World Cup, the Euros, the Europa League and the Premier League and has a high level of responsibility on a match-day.  In this episode, we discuss how leadership styles change to match the demands of the context, such as how Lizzie dealt with the disturbances at the Black Country Derby between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers. We discuss the importance of planning and reviewing performance to facilitate subsequent performance and how Lizzie is able to get the best out of her team. Importantly, Lizzie explains the prevalence of misogyny in football and how she is able to deal with situations that are particularly unpleasant. Finally, Lizzie reflects on the need to develop positive mental health in what can be considered sometimes as a 'macho' culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 07 Nov 2024 09:40:00 -0000 Lizzie Lewandowski (West Midlands Police Football Unit Sargent) full 1 41 Dr Paul Mansell Lizzie Lewandowski is our guest in the studio in episode 40. A Sargent of the West Midlands Police Football Unit, Lizzie has had an extensive career in dealing with situations of high pressure. Lizzie has worked at the World Cup, the Euros, the Europa League and the Premier League and has a high level of responsibility on a match-day.  In this episode, we discuss how leadership styles change to match the demands of the context, such as how Lizzie dealt with the disturbances at the Black Country Derby between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers. We discuss the importance of planning and reviewing performance to facilitate subsequent performance and how Lizzie is able to get the best out of her team. Importantly, Lizzie explains the prevalence of misogyny in football and how she is able to deal with situations that are particularly unpleasant. Finally, Lizzie reflects on the need to develop positive mental health in what can be considered sometimes as a 'macho' culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Lizzie Lewandowski is our guest in the studio in episode 40. A Sargent of the West Midlands Police Football Unit, Lizzie has had an extensive career in dealing with situations of high pressure. Lizzie has worked at the World Cup, the Euros, the Europa League and the Premier League and has a high level of responsibility on a match-day. 


In this episode, we discuss how leadership styles change to match the demands of the context, such as how Lizzie dealt with the disturbances at the Black Country Derby between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers.


We discuss the importance of planning and reviewing performance to facilitate subsequent performance and how Lizzie is able to get the best out of her team. Importantly, Lizzie explains the prevalence of misogyny in football and how she is able to deal with situations that are particularly unpleasant.


Finally, Lizzie reflects on the need to develop positive mental health in what can be considered sometimes as a 'macho' culture.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4380 no BONUS: Andy and Izzy Pearce (Stars of ITV's 'My Mum, Your Dad') In this special bonus episode, we introduce two local guests who have recently appeared on the ITV show 'My Mum, Your Dad'. Conducted just prior to the show, which is available now on ITVX, father Andy Pearce and daughter Izzy Pearce describe the challenges they face as members of the public who are catapulted onto national TV in front of watching millions. Andy is a successful businessman in the property domain and has worked with numerous international footballers during his career, and we reflect on what he has learnt from those experiences. Izzy outlines the psychological support provided to contestants on shows like 'My Mum, Your Dad', and speaks about her coping mechanisms for appearing on national TV.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Mon, 04 Nov 2024 10:58:00 -0000 Andy and Issy Pearce (Stars of ITV's 'My Mum, Your Dad') bonus 1 Dr Paul Mansell In this special bonus episode, we introduce two local guests who have recently appeared on the ITV show 'My Mum, Your Dad'. Conducted just prior to the show, which is available now on ITVX, father Andy Pearce and daughter Izzy Pearce describe the challenges they face as members of the public who are catapulted onto national TV in front of watching millions. Andy is a successful businessman in the property domain and has worked with numerous international footballers during his career, and we reflect on what he has learnt from those experiences. Izzy outlines the psychological support provided to contestants on shows like 'My Mum, Your Dad', and speaks about her coping mechanisms for appearing on national TV.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this special bonus episode, we introduce two local guests who have recently appeared on the ITV show 'My Mum, Your Dad'. Conducted just prior to the show, which is available now on ITVX, father Andy Pearce and daughter Izzy Pearce describe the challenges they face as members of the public who are catapulted onto national TV in front of watching millions.


Andy is a successful businessman in the property domain and has worked with numerous international footballers during his career, and we reflect on what he has learnt from those experiences. Izzy outlines the psychological support provided to contestants on shows like 'My Mum, Your Dad', and speaks about her coping mechanisms for appearing on national TV. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2793 no EP40: Marc Jones (Professor of Psychology) Professor Marc Jones is an expert in stress on health, wellbeing and performance in individuals and organisations at Manchester Metropolitan University. Formerly a colleague of co-host Professor Matt Slater at the University of Staffordshire, Marc has been hugely influential in developing theories that explain the confluence of psychology and physiology in performing under pressure. Indeed, the Theory of Challenge and Threat States in Athletes forms part of our conversation in this episode and we explore some of the factors that may influence challenge and threat responses, such as social support. We ask Marc to explain the characteristics of effective practice in sport psychology and then move on to discussing how leaders and organisations can contribute to effective performance under pressure. On an individual level, Marc also explains the utility of imagery in facilitating performance under pressure.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 31 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0000 Marc Jones (Professor of Psychology) full 1 40 Dr Paul Mansell Professor Marc Jones is an expert in stress on health, wellbeing and performance in individuals and organisations at Manchester Metropolitan University. Professor Marc Jones is an expert in stress on health, wellbeing and performance in individuals and organisations at Manchester Metropolitan University. Formerly a colleague of co-host Professor Matt Slater at the University of Staffordshire, Marc has been hugely influential in developing theories that explain the confluence of psychology and physiology in performing under pressure. Indeed, the Theory of Challenge and Threat States in Athletes forms part of our conversation in this episode and we explore some of the factors that may influence challenge and threat responses, such as social support. We ask Marc to explain the characteristics of effective practice in sport psychology and then move on to discussing how leaders and organisations can contribute to effective performance under pressure. On an individual level, Marc also explains the utility of imagery in facilitating performance under pressure.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Professor Marc Jones is an expert in stress on health, wellbeing and performance in individuals and organisations at Manchester Metropolitan University. Formerly a colleague of co-host Professor Matt Slater at the University of Staffordshire, Marc has been hugely influential in developing theories that explain the confluence of psychology and physiology in performing under pressure.


Indeed, the Theory of Challenge and Threat States in Athletes forms part of our conversation in this episode and we explore some of the factors that may influence challenge and threat responses, such as social support.


We ask Marc to explain the characteristics of effective practice in sport psychology and then move on to discussing how leaders and organisations can contribute to effective performance under pressure. On an individual level, Marc also explains the utility of imagery in facilitating performance under pressure.

 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4302 no EP39: Matilde Fidalgo (ex-Portugal International Footballer) In this special international edition recorded in Porto, Dr Paul Mansell and Beatriz Gandra speak to Matilde Fidalgo about her perceptions of performing under pressure in the highest level of women's football. Matilde announced her retirement from football this month and has had a stellar career representing teams such as Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Braga, Manchester City, Real Betis and FC Famalicao. She also represented Portugal, winning 48 caps which included playing at Euro 2017. We explore the feelings associated with retirement and career transitions and also delve into how Matilde prepared to perform well in her career. Nutrition is highly important to her, and Matilde explains how she used nutrition to fuel her performance. Matilde tells us about how she would support herself in situations of pressure, such as in reacting to mistakes in a helpful way, and she explains what effective leadership should like like in this context. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 24 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Matilde Fidalgo (ex-Portugal International Footballer) full 1 34 Dr Paul Mansell In this special international edition recorded in Porto, Dr Paul Mansell and Beatriz Gandra speak to Matilde Fidalgo about her perceptions of performing under pressure in the highest level of women's football. In this special international edition recorded in Porto, Dr Paul Mansell and Beatriz Gandra speak to Matilde Fidalgo about her perceptions of performing under pressure in the highest level of women's football. Matilde announced her retirement from football this month and has had a stellar career representing teams such as Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Braga, Manchester City, Real Betis and FC Famalicao. She also represented Portugal, winning 48 caps which included playing at Euro 2017. We explore the feelings associated with retirement and career transitions and also delve into how Matilde prepared to perform well in her career. Nutrition is highly important to her, and Matilde explains how she used nutrition to fuel her performance. Matilde tells us about how she would support herself in situations of pressure, such as in reacting to mistakes in a helpful way, and she explains what effective leadership should like like in this context. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this special international edition recorded in Porto, Dr Paul Mansell and Beatriz Gandra speak to Matilde Fidalgo about her perceptions of performing under pressure in the highest level of women's football.


Matilde announced her retirement from football this month and has had a stellar career representing teams such as Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Braga, Manchester City, Real Betis and FC Famalicao. She also represented Portugal, winning 48 caps which included playing at Euro 2017.


We explore the feelings associated with retirement and career transitions and also delve into how Matilde prepared to perform well in her career. Nutrition is highly important to her, and Matilde explains how she used nutrition to fuel her performance. Matilde tells us about how she would support herself in situations of pressure, such as in reacting to mistakes in a helpful way, and she explains what effective leadership should like like in this context.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4831 no EP38: Dave Lawrence (Elite Club Development Manager) Dave Lawrence is able to speak about performing under pressure from his myriad of experiences in football. In a career spanning 27 years to date, Dave has been Head of Sport for The Albion Foundation, the first ever Director of Women’s Football at WBA FC, Head of Football for University of Wolverhampton, Head Coach for University of Birmingham Women, an FA Mentor and former FA Coach Educator. Dave was also a FIFA registered agent and now works for the Football Association of Wales. In this episode, we discuss the importance of being prepared to show vulnerability to demonstrate a human side, the importance of 'what - if' planning and asking yourself the question of 'what does this player need today?'. Dave also suggests the importance of being an inch wide but a mile deep when it comes to knowledge and also preparing for performance under pressure by allowing players the chance to develop this skill in ecologically valid settings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 17 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Dave Lawrence (Elite Club Development Manager) full 1 38 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, we discuss the importance of being prepared to show vulnerability to demonstrate a human side, the importance of 'what - if' planning and asking yourself the question of 'what does this player need today?'. Dave Lawrence is able to speak about performing under pressure from his myriad of experiences in football. In a career spanning 27 years to date, Dave has been Head of Sport for The Albion Foundation, the first ever Director of Women’s Football at WBA FC, Head of Football for University of Wolverhampton, Head Coach for University of Birmingham Women, an FA Mentor and former FA Coach Educator. Dave was also a FIFA registered agent and now works for the Football Association of Wales. In this episode, we discuss the importance of being prepared to show vulnerability to demonstrate a human side, the importance of 'what - if' planning and asking yourself the question of 'what does this player need today?'. Dave also suggests the importance of being an inch wide but a mile deep when it comes to knowledge and also preparing for performance under pressure by allowing players the chance to develop this skill in ecologically valid settings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dave Lawrence is able to speak about performing under pressure from his myriad of experiences in football. In a career spanning 27 years to date, Dave has been Head of Sport for The Albion Foundation, the first ever Director of Women’s Football at WBA FC, Head of Football for University of Wolverhampton, Head Coach for University of Birmingham Women, an FA Mentor and former FA Coach Educator. Dave was also a FIFA registered agent and now works for the Football Association of Wales.


In this episode, we discuss the importance of being prepared to show vulnerability to demonstrate a human side, the importance of 'what - if' planning and asking yourself the question of 'what does this player need today?'. Dave also suggests the importance of being an inch wide but a mile deep when it comes to knowledge and also preparing for performance under pressure by allowing players the chance to develop this skill in ecologically valid settings.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 5065 no EP37: Chris Casper (Director of Football at Salford City FC) Chris Casper began his career in football at Manchester United under the watchful eye of Sir Alex Ferguson and made his debut for the first team in 1994. He has also represented England at U18 and U21 levels, AFC Bournemouth, Swindon Town and Reading before retiring due to a serious knee injury aged 24. He is now Director at Football at League Two Salford City having also experienced club management at Team Bath and Bury. In this episode, Chris tells Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater what he learned from his time at Manchester United, and he goes into detail as to how he used visualisation ahead of an important game away at Tottenham Hotspur. Indeed, preparation is a theme that crops up frequently during the conversation, and Chris explains how he now utilises this to help him perform in the pressurised role as a leader in football. We discuss creating a culture in an organisation, and Chris reveals what he hopes people would say about the culture he has created at Salford City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 10 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Chris Casper (Director of Football at Salford City FC) full 1 42 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Chris tells Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater what he learned from his time at Manchester United, and he goes into detail as to how he used visualisation ahead of an important game away at Tottenham Hotspur. Chris Casper began his career in football at Manchester United under the watchful eye of Sir Alex Ferguson and made his debut for the first team in 1994. He has also represented England at U18 and U21 levels, AFC Bournemouth, Swindon Town and Reading before retiring due to a serious knee injury aged 24. He is now Director at Football at League Two Salford City having also experienced club management at Team Bath and Bury. In this episode, Chris tells Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater what he learned from his time at Manchester United, and he goes into detail as to how he used visualisation ahead of an important game away at Tottenham Hotspur. Indeed, preparation is a theme that crops up frequently during the conversation, and Chris explains how he now utilises this to help him perform in the pressurised role as a leader in football. We discuss creating a culture in an organisation, and Chris reveals what he hopes people would say about the culture he has created at Salford City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Chris Casper began his career in football at Manchester United under the watchful eye of Sir Alex Ferguson and made his debut for the first team in 1994. He has also represented England at U18 and U21 levels, AFC Bournemouth, Swindon Town and Reading before retiring due to a serious knee injury aged 24. He is now Director at Football at League Two Salford City having also experienced club management at Team Bath and Bury.


In this episode, Chris tells Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater what he learned from his time at Manchester United, and he goes into detail as to how he used visualisation ahead of an important game away at Tottenham Hotspur. Indeed, preparation is a theme that crops up frequently during the conversation, and Chris explains how he now utilises this to help him perform in the pressurised role as a leader in football.


We discuss creating a culture in an organisation, and Chris reveals what he hopes people would say about the culture he has created at Salford City.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3360 EP36: Dr Amber Mosewich (Self-Compassion Expert) Dr Amber Mosewich is an Associate Professor at the University of Alberta, Canada. In this exclusive interview with Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks, Amber explains the role of self-compassion in wellbeing and performance in sport. Amber is one of the world's leading experts in this growing and evidence-based field, and the content that she shares also shines a light on how we might utilise self-compassion theory and strategies as a part of our daily lives. In particular, Amber describes the three pillars of self-compassion and offers an explanation as to how self-criticism can be detrimental to wellbeing and performance. Amber provides some thoughts as how quickly self-compassion skills can develop and on why scepticism may exist towards self-compassion. We also discuss how organisations can promote a self-compassionate culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 03 Oct 2024 07:50:00 -0000 Dr Amber Mosewich full 1 36 Dr Paul Mansell Dr Amber Mosewich is an Associate Professor at the University of Alberta, Canada. In this exclusive interview with Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks, Amber explains the role of self-compassion in wellbeing and performance in sport. Amber is one of the world's leading experts in this growing and evidence-based field, and the content that she shares also shines a light on how we might utilise self-compassion theory and strategies as a part of our daily lives. In particular, Amber describes the three pillars of self-compassion and offers an explanation as to how self-criticism can be detrimental to wellbeing and performance. Amber provides some thoughts as how quickly self-compassion skills can develop and on why scepticism may exist towards self-compassion. We also discuss how organisations can promote a self-compassionate culture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Amber Mosewich is an Associate Professor at the University of Alberta, Canada. In this exclusive interview with Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks, Amber explains the role of self-compassion in wellbeing and performance in sport. Amber is one of the world's leading experts in this growing and evidence-based field, and the content that she shares also shines a light on how we might utilise self-compassion theory and strategies as a part of our daily lives.


In particular, Amber describes the three pillars of self-compassion and offers an explanation as to how self-criticism can be detrimental to wellbeing and performance. Amber provides some thoughts as how quickly self-compassion skills can develop and on why scepticism may exist towards self-compassion. We also discuss how organisations can promote a self-compassionate culture.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3534 no EP35: Karl Colley (Ex-Professional Footballer) Karl Colley began his professional football career with his hometown club Sheffield Wednesday and subsequently signed for Newcastle United and Sheffield United before playing at Non-League level for teams including Halifax Town and Goole. In this episode, Karl speaks at length about the need to offer psychological support to young players and how this needs to be much more than just a box-ticking exercise. In discussion with Dr Paul Mansell and guest co-host Jake Jervis, Karl describes how leaders can play a crucial role in fostering the positive development of young players. Karl is very open and honest about the struggles he faced in his career, such as a gambling addiction and poor mental health, and now, Karl shares his desire to use his experiences to help others. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 26 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Karl Colley (ex-professional footballer) full 1 35 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Karl speaks at length about the need to offer psychological support to young players and how this needs to be much more than just a box-ticking exercise. Karl Colley began his professional football career with his hometown club Sheffield Wednesday and subsequently signed for Newcastle United and Sheffield United before playing at Non-League level for teams including Halifax Town and Goole. In this episode, Karl speaks at length about the need to offer psychological support to young players and how this needs to be much more than just a box-ticking exercise. In discussion with Dr Paul Mansell and guest co-host Jake Jervis, Karl describes how leaders can play a crucial role in fostering the positive development of young players. Karl is very open and honest about the struggles he faced in his career, such as a gambling addiction and poor mental health, and now, Karl shares his desire to use his experiences to help others. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Karl Colley began his professional football career with his hometown club Sheffield Wednesday and subsequently signed for Newcastle United and Sheffield United before playing at Non-League level for teams including Halifax Town and Goole.


In this episode, Karl speaks at length about the need to offer psychological support to young players and how this needs to be much more than just a box-ticking exercise. In discussion with Dr Paul Mansell and guest co-host Jake Jervis, Karl describes how leaders can play a crucial role in fostering the positive development of young players.


Karl is very open and honest about the struggles he faced in his career, such as a gambling addiction and poor mental health, and now, Karl shares his desire to use his experiences to help others.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3409 yes EP34: Mark O'Brien (former Derby County, Newport County defender) Mark O'Brien made his debut for Derby County in the Championship aged 16 and went on to make nearly 200 career appearances for Motherwell, Luton Town, Southport and Newport County. The former Republic of Ireland youth international retired aged 27 having had open heart surgery and in this episode, Mark tells Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon about how he dealt with this life-threatening situation. Since retiring, Mark is now a member of staff at Newport County and is passionate about supporting the development of young players. Reflecting on his own playing career, Mark describes the importance of routine and the need for taking personal responsibility. Mark describes experiencing pre-match nerves in the form of vomiting prior to kick-off and the role of perspective in helping individuals perform under pressure. This episode was recorded via Microsoft Teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 19 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Mark O'Brien (former Derby County, Newport County defender) full 1 34 Dr Paul Mansell Ex-professional footballer, Mark O'Brien joins Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon for this virtual podcast episode. Mark O'Brien made his debut for Derby County in the Championship aged 16 and went on to make nearly 200 career appearances for Motherwell, Luton Town, Southport and Newport County. The former Republic of Ireland youth international retired aged 27 having had open heart surgery and in this episode, Mark tells Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon about how he dealt with this life-threatening situation. Since retiring, Mark is now a member of staff at Newport County and is passionate about supporting the development of young players. Reflecting on his own playing career, Mark describes the importance of routine and the need for taking personal responsibility. Mark describes experiencing pre-match nerves in the form of vomiting prior to kick-off and the role of perspective in helping individuals perform under pressure. This episode was recorded via Microsoft Teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Mark O'Brien made his debut for Derby County in the Championship aged 16 and went on to make nearly 200 career appearances for Motherwell, Luton Town, Southport and Newport County.


The former Republic of Ireland youth international retired aged 27 having had open heart surgery and in this episode, Mark tells Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon about how he dealt with this life-threatening situation.


Since retiring, Mark is now a member of staff at Newport County and is passionate about supporting the development of young players. Reflecting on his own playing career, Mark describes the importance of routine and the need for taking personal responsibility. Mark describes experiencing pre-match nerves in the form of vomiting prior to kick-off and the role of perspective in helping individuals perform under pressure.


This episode was recorded via Microsoft Teams.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4438 EP33: Jamille Matt (Walsall FC Striker) Current vice-captain of League Two Walsall FC, striker Jamille Matt has made over 400 appearances in his career and has represented clubs including Forest Green, Newport County, Fleetwood Town and Kidderminster Harriers. In this unique episode, Jamille joined regular host Dr Paul Mansell and guest co-hosts Jake Jervis and Sam Winnall in the studio to discuss performance under pressure. The added dynamic of two recently retired professional footballers made for a detailed and honest conversation, such as the best way to prepare for a Wembley final. A focus of this episode was on leadership given Jamille's experience and he provided some useful practical advice as to how a leader can get the best out of their players, such as through empowerment. The use of self-criticism was also discussed by the quartet.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 12 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Jamille Matt (Walsall FC Striker) full 1 33 Dr Paul Mansell In this unique episode, Jamille joined regular host Dr Paul Mansell and guest co-hosts Jake Jervis and Sam Winnall in the studio to discuss performance under pressure. Current vice-captain of League Two Walsall FC, striker Jamille Matt has made over 400 appearances in his career and has represented clubs including Forest Green, Newport County, Fleetwood Town and Kidderminster Harriers. In this unique episode, Jamille joined regular host Dr Paul Mansell and guest co-hosts Jake Jervis and Sam Winnall in the studio to discuss performance under pressure. The added dynamic of two recently retired professional footballers made for a detailed and honest conversation, such as the best way to prepare for a Wembley final. A focus of this episode was on leadership given Jamille's experience and he provided some useful practical advice as to how a leader can get the best out of their players, such as through empowerment. The use of self-criticism was also discussed by the quartet.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Current vice-captain of League Two Walsall FC, striker Jamille Matt has made over 400 appearances in his career and has represented clubs including Forest Green, Newport County, Fleetwood Town and Kidderminster Harriers. In this unique episode, Jamille joined regular host Dr Paul Mansell and guest co-hosts Jake Jervis and Sam Winnall in the studio to discuss performance under pressure. The added dynamic of two recently retired professional footballers made for a detailed and honest conversation, such as the best way to prepare for a Wembley final. A focus of this episode was on leadership given Jamille's experience and he provided some useful practical advice as to how a leader can get the best out of their players, such as through empowerment. The use of self-criticism was also discussed by the quartet. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4552 no EP32: Emma Quinn (Doctoral researcher at Loughborough University) In this episode, Emma Quinn joined Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson in the studio to discuss performing under pressure from the angle of female health. Emma is a PhD student at Loughborough University and has recently delivered psychological skills interventions with the England Amputee Football Association. Speaking from her experiences in competing in karate to a high level as well as reflecting on her applied work, Emma spoke in detail about her perceptions of performing under pressure, and she shares some of the strategies that she has found to be impactful when working with athletes. However, the main focus of this conversation was to learn more about the role of menstruation in sport and exercise and how this might influence performing under pressure. Coaches, teachers, leaders and practitioners alike will no doubt be able to learn from Emma's evidence-based approach to this topic as Emma provides some practical tips on how to aid female athletes' health, wellbeing and performance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 05 Sep 2024 08:46:00 -0000 Emma Quinn (Doctoral researcher at Loughborough University) full 1 32 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Emma Quinn joined Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson in the studio to discuss performing under pressure from the angle of female health. In this episode, Emma Quinn joined Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson in the studio to discuss performing under pressure from the angle of female health. Emma is a PhD student at Loughborough University and has recently delivered psychological skills interventions with the England Amputee Football Association. Speaking from her experiences in competing in karate to a high level as well as reflecting on her applied work, Emma spoke in detail about her perceptions of performing under pressure, and she shares some of the strategies that she has found to be impactful when working with athletes. However, the main focus of this conversation was to learn more about the role of menstruation in sport and exercise and how this might influence performing under pressure. Coaches, teachers, leaders and practitioners alike will no doubt be able to learn from Emma's evidence-based approach to this topic as Emma provides some practical tips on how to aid female athletes' health, wellbeing and performance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, Emma Quinn joined Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson in the studio to discuss performing under pressure from the angle of female health. Emma is a PhD student at Loughborough University and has recently delivered psychological skills interventions with the England Amputee Football Association.


Speaking from her experiences in competing in karate to a high level as well as reflecting on her applied work, Emma spoke in detail about her perceptions of performing under pressure, and she shares some of the strategies that she has found to be impactful when working with athletes. However, the main focus of this conversation was to learn more about the role of menstruation in sport and exercise and how this might influence performing under pressure.


Coaches, teachers, leaders and practitioners alike will no doubt be able to learn from Emma's evidence-based approach to this topic as Emma provides some practical tips on how to aid female athletes' health, wellbeing and performance.

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]]> 4523 EP31: Merrick Will (Wolves Women midfielder) In this episode, Wolves Women midfielder Merrick Will joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to share her reflections on performing under pressure. Merrick has previously spent four seasons in the Championship with London Bees and has also represented Coventry United, Oxford United, Millwall and Watford. Merrick describes how she prepares for an important game by detailing her use of imagery. Having completed a Sport Psychology MSc herself, Merrick offers some detailed thoughts on the role of psychology in women's football such as the extent to which a sport psychologist should be embedded within a club. Just prior to recording the episode, Merrick had experienced an ACL injury, and as a result, she provides some useful guidance as to the best way to support a player that is experiencing a serious injury. Merrick also explains to Paul about the importance of being a team rather than a group. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 29 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Merrick Will (Wolves Women midfielder) full 1 31 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Wolves Women midfielder Merrick Will joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to share her reflections on performing under pressure. In this episode, Wolves Women midfielder Merrick Will joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to share her reflections on performing under pressure. Merrick has previously spent four seasons in the Championship with London Bees and has also represented Coventry United, Oxford United, Millwall and Watford. Merrick describes how she prepares for an important game by detailing her use of imagery. Having completed a Sport Psychology MSc herself, Merrick offers some detailed thoughts on the role of psychology in women's football such as the extent to which a sport psychologist should be embedded within a club. Just prior to recording the episode, Merrick had experienced an ACL injury, and as a result, she provides some useful guidance as to the best way to support a player that is experiencing a serious injury. Merrick also explains to Paul about the importance of being a team rather than a group. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, Wolves Women midfielder Merrick Will joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to share her reflections on performing under pressure. Merrick has previously spent four seasons in the Championship with London Bees and has also represented Coventry United, Oxford United, Millwall and Watford.


Merrick describes how she prepares for an important game by detailing her use of imagery. Having completed a Sport Psychology MSc herself, Merrick offers some detailed thoughts on the role of psychology in women's football such as the extent to which a sport psychologist should be embedded within a club.


Just prior to recording the episode, Merrick had experienced an ACL injury, and as a result, she provides some useful guidance as to the best way to support a player that is experiencing a serious injury. Merrick also explains to Paul about the importance of being a team rather than a group.

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]]> 4658 no EP30: Nick Welch (Former Major General) In this episode, we welcomed Nick Welch into the studio. Nick has had a distinguished career in the military, reaching the rank of Major General as part of his 35 years of service. Speaking about his views on leadership in what is perhaps one of the greatest situations of pressure, Nick describes his approach in leading others in missions in Afghanistan and Bosnia. Nick has also had a range of experiences in the world of business and is now the Chief Executive Officer of Komodo Bikes Limited.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 22 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Nick Welch (Former Major General) full 1 30 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, we welcomed Nick Welch into the studio. Nick has had a distinguished career in the military, reaching the rank of Major General as part of his 35 years of service. In this episode, we welcomed Nick Welch into the studio. Nick has had a distinguished career in the military, reaching the rank of Major General as part of his 35 years of service. Speaking about his views on leadership in what is perhaps one of the greatest situations of pressure, Nick describes his approach in leading others in missions in Afghanistan and Bosnia. Nick has also had a range of experiences in the world of business and is now the Chief Executive Officer of Komodo Bikes Limited.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, we welcomed Nick Welch into the studio. Nick has had a distinguished career in the military, reaching the rank of Major General as part of his 35 years of service.


Speaking about his views on leadership in what is perhaps one of the greatest situations of pressure, Nick describes his approach in leading others in missions in Afghanistan and Bosnia.


Nick has also had a range of experiences in the world of business and is now the Chief Executive Officer of Komodo Bikes Limited. 

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]]> 4197 EP29: Dr Martin Turner (Sport Psychologist) Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell welcomed Dr Martin Turner back to Staffordshire University to tap into his extensive knowledge on wellbeing and performance under pressure. Author of phenomenally detailed book 'The Rational Practitioner', Martin has made a significant contribution to the field of sport psychology through his high quality publications on Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT). In this episode, Martin explains the premise of REBT and how it can influence the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of individuals as they strive towards their athletic goals. Martin has also contributed heavily to the topic of challenge and threat appraisals and we discuss how he uses this in his practice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 15 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Dr Martin Turner (Author of 'The Rational Practitioner') full 1 29 Dr Paul Mansell Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell welcomed Dr Martin Turner back to Staffordshire University to tap into his extensive knowledge on wellbeing and performance under pressure. Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell welcomed Dr Martin Turner back to Staffordshire University to tap into his extensive knowledge on wellbeing and performance under pressure. Author of phenomenally detailed book 'The Rational Practitioner', Martin has made a significant contribution to the field of sport psychology through his high quality publications on Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT). In this episode, Martin explains the premise of REBT and how it can influence the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of individuals as they strive towards their athletic goals. Martin has also contributed heavily to the topic of challenge and threat appraisals and we discuss how he uses this in his practice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell welcomed Dr Martin Turner back to Staffordshire University to tap into his extensive knowledge on wellbeing and performance under pressure.


Author of phenomenally detailed book 'The Rational Practitioner', Martin has made a significant contribution to the field of sport psychology through his high quality publications on Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT).


In this episode, Martin explains the premise of REBT and how it can influence the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of individuals as they strive towards their athletic goals. Martin has also contributed heavily to the topic of challenge and threat appraisals and we discuss how he uses this in his practice.

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]]> 4988 EP28: Jamie Ingram (International Swimmer) In this episode, Dr Katie Sparks and Dr Paul Mansell spoke to international swimmer Jamie Ingram about his experiences of performing under pressure. Jamie won a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games as part of the 4 x 100m men's freestyle relay, has competed at the Swimming World Cup on multiple occasions and has been swimming at national level or above for the last twelve years. Jamie narrowly missed out on qualification for the 2024 Olympic Games and describes how he has dealt with the disappointment of this. Adding something different to the experiences of previous guests, Jamie describes the idea of 'pain mastery' and how he manages his challenging physical training schedule. The trio also discuss the importance of recovery and Jamie goes into detail about how he uses imagery as part of psychological preparation for an event. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 08 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Jamie Ingram (International Swimmer) full 1 28 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, Dr Katie Sparks and Dr Paul Mansell spoke to international swimmer Jamie Ingram about his experiences of performing under pressure. In this episode, Dr Katie Sparks and Dr Paul Mansell spoke to international swimmer Jamie Ingram about his experiences of performing under pressure. Jamie won a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games as part of the 4 x 100m men's freestyle relay, has competed at the Swimming World Cup on multiple occasions and has been swimming at national level or above for the last twelve years. Jamie narrowly missed out on qualification for the 2024 Olympic Games and describes how he has dealt with the disappointment of this. Adding something different to the experiences of previous guests, Jamie describes the idea of 'pain mastery' and how he manages his challenging physical training schedule. The trio also discuss the importance of recovery and Jamie goes into detail about how he uses imagery as part of psychological preparation for an event. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, Dr Katie Sparks and Dr Paul Mansell spoke to international swimmer Jamie Ingram about his experiences of performing under pressure. Jamie won a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games as part of the 4 x 100m men's freestyle relay, has competed at the Swimming World Cup on multiple occasions and has been swimming at national level or above for the last twelve years.


Jamie narrowly missed out on qualification for the 2024 Olympic Games and describes how he has dealt with the disappointment of this. Adding something different to the experiences of previous guests, Jamie describes the idea of 'pain mastery' and how he manages his challenging physical training schedule. The trio also discuss the importance of recovery and Jamie goes into detail about how he uses imagery as part of psychological preparation for an event.

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]]> 4006 no EP27: Geir Jordet (Professor of Football and Psychology) According to The Times, Geir Jordet is the 'world-leading expert on the psychology of penalties'. A Professor of Football and Psychology at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences in Oslo, Geir is also the author of the acclaimed book "Pressure: Lessons from the Psychology of the Penalty Shootout". Dr Paul Mansell had the opportunity to interview Geir at the FEPSAC conference in Innsbruck, Austria, and in this episode, Geir explained his research on penalties and how this can inform the art of taking penalties under intense pressure. Rather than focusing on technique per se, Geir has been fascinated about the psychological challenges of this skill and explains what is the most anxiety-inducing aspect of this process. Geir has also conducted a wealth of research into 'scanning' citing ex-Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi as one of the greats at this, and explains what this is and how it can be trained to enhance performance.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 01 Aug 2024 06:30:00 -0000 Geir Jordet (Professor of Football and Psychology) full Dr Paul Mansell According to The Times, Geir Jordet is the 'world-leading expert on the psychology of penalties'. A Professor of Football and Psychology at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences in Oslo, Geir is also the author of the acclaimed book "Pressure: Lessons from the Psychology of the Penalty Shootout". According to The Times, Geir Jordet is the 'world-leading expert on the psychology of penalties'. A Professor of Football and Psychology at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences in Oslo, Geir is also the author of the acclaimed book "Pressure: Lessons from the Psychology of the Penalty Shootout". Dr Paul Mansell had the opportunity to interview Geir at the FEPSAC conference in Innsbruck, Austria, and in this episode, Geir explained his research on penalties and how this can inform the art of taking penalties under intense pressure. Rather than focusing on technique per se, Geir has been fascinated about the psychological challenges of this skill and explains what is the most anxiety-inducing aspect of this process. Geir has also conducted a wealth of research into 'scanning' citing ex-Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi as one of the greats at this, and explains what this is and how it can be trained to enhance performance.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices According to The Times, Geir Jordet is the 'world-leading expert on the psychology of penalties'. A Professor of Football and Psychology at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences in Oslo, Geir is also the author of the acclaimed book "Pressure: Lessons from the Psychology of the Penalty Shootout".


Dr Paul Mansell had the opportunity to interview Geir at the FEPSAC conference in Innsbruck, Austria, and in this episode, Geir explained his research on penalties and how this can inform the art of taking penalties under intense pressure. Rather than focusing on technique per se, Geir has been fascinated about the psychological challenges of this skill and explains what is the most anxiety-inducing aspect of this process.


Geir has also conducted a wealth of research into 'scanning' citing ex-Barcelona and Spain midfielder Xavi as one of the greats at this, and explains what this is and how it can be trained to enhance performance. 

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]]> 3967 no EP26: Helen Richardson-Walsh (Olympic Gold Medalist in Field Hockey) Ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Prof Matthew Slater and Dr Karla Drew invite Olympic Gold medalist, Helen Richardson-Walsh, into the studio. Helen was part of the GB women’s hockey team that worked hard and proactively to create a culture of belonging, openness, and vulnerability. Alongside pressure training, imagery, self-talk, Helen explains how this was developed and how it was the foundation to their amazing success! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 25 Jul 2024 08:15:00 -0000 Helen Richardson-Walsh (Olympic Gold Medalist in Field Hockey) full 1 23 Dr Paul Mansell Ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Prof Matthew Slater and Dr Karla Drew invite Olympic Gold medalist, Helen Richardson-Walsh, into the studio. Ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Prof Matthew Slater and Dr Karla Drew invite Olympic Gold medalist, Helen Richardson-Walsh, into the studio. Helen was part of the GB women’s hockey team that worked hard and proactively to create a culture of belonging, openness, and vulnerability. Alongside pressure training, imagery, self-talk, Helen explains how this was developed and how it was the foundation to their amazing success! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Prof Matthew Slater and Dr Karla Drew invite Olympic Gold medalist, Helen Richardson-Walsh, into the studio.


Helen was part of the GB women’s hockey team that worked hard and proactively to create a culture of belonging, openness, and vulnerability. Alongside pressure training, imagery, self-talk, Helen explains how this was developed and how it was the foundation to their amazing success!

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]]> 4483 EP25: Dr Tom Bates (Sport and Performance Psychologist) Derby County defender Kane Wilson joined Dr Paul Mansell as a co-host in the studio to pick the brains of experienced sport and performance psychologist, Dr Tom Bates. Tom has had an extensive career in this field and has worked with Aston Villa, Brentford and Sheffield Wednesday in football, whilst consulting at the Olympic Games for Team GB. This is a bumper episode with so much to unpack, however, several key themes emerged during the conversation. Tom is a proponent of mindset and labels it as something that defines performance whilst also highlighting the importance of humility, learning and curiosity as tools to promote continuous improvement. The trio discuss the meaning of pressure and the utility of pre-performance routines, and Kane offers his reflections on working with Tom as a young player. Tom provides some strategies for dealing with over-thinking and how reappraisal of emotional states can be useful when the stakes are high. Finally, Tom describes the challenges of working in elite sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 18 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Dr Tom Bates (Sport and Performance Psychologist) full 1 25 Dr Paul Mansell Derby County defender Kane Wilson joined Dr Paul Mansell as a co-host in the studio to pick the brains of experienced sport and performance psychologist, Dr Tom Bates. Derby County defender Kane Wilson joined Dr Paul Mansell as a co-host in the studio to pick the brains of experienced sport and performance psychologist, Dr Tom Bates. Tom has had an extensive career in this field and has worked with Aston Villa, Brentford and Sheffield Wednesday in football, whilst consulting at the Olympic Games for Team GB. This is a bumper episode with so much to unpack, however, several key themes emerged during the conversation. Tom is a proponent of mindset and labels it as something that defines performance whilst also highlighting the importance of humility, learning and curiosity as tools to promote continuous improvement. The trio discuss the meaning of pressure and the utility of pre-performance routines, and Kane offers his reflections on working with Tom as a young player. Tom provides some strategies for dealing with over-thinking and how reappraisal of emotional states can be useful when the stakes are high. Finally, Tom describes the challenges of working in elite sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Derby County defender Kane Wilson joined Dr Paul Mansell as a co-host in the studio to pick the brains of experienced sport and performance psychologist, Dr Tom Bates. Tom has had an extensive career in this field and has worked with Aston Villa, Brentford and Sheffield Wednesday in football, whilst consulting at the Olympic Games for Team GB. This is a bumper episode with so much to unpack, however, several key themes emerged during the conversation.


Tom is a proponent of mindset and labels it as something that defines performance whilst also highlighting the importance of humility, learning and curiosity as tools to promote continuous improvement. The trio discuss the meaning of pressure and the utility of pre-performance routines, and Kane offers his reflections on working with Tom as a young player. Tom provides some strategies for dealing with over-thinking and how reappraisal of emotional states can be useful when the stakes are high. Finally, Tom describes the challenges of working in elite sport.

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]]> 4998 BONUS: FEPSAC Special (Paul, Katie and Andy) In this bonus episode of the podcast, three members of the sport and exercise psychology team sat down to share their ideas ahead of presenting a symposium at the prestigious FEPSAC conference in Austria. Entitled ‘A to B to C – stress and performing under pressure’, the purpose of the symposium is to describe how beliefs (B) about an adverse event (A) may lead to thoughts, emotions and behaviours as consequences (C). Dr Paul Mansell shared his thoughts on stress mindset and outlined the role in which beliefs about the nature of stress can shape our wellbeing and performance. Paul shared some of his recent findings from working with academy footballers in the UK and Portugal. Dr Andrew Wilkinson focused on the physiological consequences of certain beliefs and attitudes and explained the role that such responses play in performance supported by his research work with high-level cricketers. Turning to creating more adaptive beliefs for wellbeing and performance, Dr Katie Sparks spoke about self-compassion and how this might be able to help individuals in sport and beyond. Katie revealed some of her recent results in applying this strategy with students ahead of their examinations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Mon, 15 Jul 2024 12:07:00 -0000 FEPSAC Special (Paul, Katie and Andy) full 1 Dr Paul Mansell In this bonus episode of the podcast, three members of the sport and exercise psychology team sat down to share their ideas ahead of presenting a symposium at the prestigious FEPSAC conference in Austria. In this bonus episode of the podcast, three members of the sport and exercise psychology team sat down to share their ideas ahead of presenting a symposium at the prestigious FEPSAC conference in Austria. Entitled ‘A to B to C – stress and performing under pressure’, the purpose of the symposium is to describe how beliefs (B) about an adverse event (A) may lead to thoughts, emotions and behaviours as consequences (C). Dr Paul Mansell shared his thoughts on stress mindset and outlined the role in which beliefs about the nature of stress can shape our wellbeing and performance. Paul shared some of his recent findings from working with academy footballers in the UK and Portugal. Dr Andrew Wilkinson focused on the physiological consequences of certain beliefs and attitudes and explained the role that such responses play in performance supported by his research work with high-level cricketers. Turning to creating more adaptive beliefs for wellbeing and performance, Dr Katie Sparks spoke about self-compassion and how this might be able to help individuals in sport and beyond. Katie revealed some of her recent results in applying this strategy with students ahead of their examinations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this bonus episode of the podcast, three members of the sport and exercise psychology team sat down to share their ideas ahead of presenting a symposium at the prestigious FEPSAC conference in Austria. Entitled ‘A to B to C – stress and performing under pressure’, the purpose of the symposium is to describe how beliefs (B) about an adverse event (A) may lead to thoughts, emotions and behaviours as consequences (C).


Dr Paul Mansell shared his thoughts on stress mindset and outlined the role in which beliefs about the nature of stress can shape our wellbeing and performance. Paul shared some of his recent findings from working with academy footballers in the UK and Portugal. Dr Andrew Wilkinson focused on the physiological consequences of certain beliefs and attitudes and explained the role that such responses play in performance supported by his research work with high-level cricketers. Turning to creating more adaptive beliefs for wellbeing and performance, Dr Katie Sparks spoke about self-compassion and how this might be able to help individuals in sport and beyond. Katie revealed some of her recent results in applying this strategy with students ahead of their examinations.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2023 EP24: Beatriz Gandra (Nutritionist for F.C. Famalicão Women's first team) Episode 24 of the podcast is an international edition as Dr Paul Mansell travelled to Porto to interview Beatriz Gandra. Beatriz is an expert in nutrition with a specific interest in football. She has provided nutritional support to FC Porto's academy and is now employed full-time at Futebol Club de Famalicão as the women's first-team nutritionist.   Located in the north of Portugal, FC Famalicão Women play in the top tier of Portuguese football. In this episode, the holistic nature of performing under pressure is evident and Beatriz outlines not only how nutrition benefits the players, but how she integrates psychology as a core part of her work with the players. Indeed, this really underscores the important role that psychology has to play in any role that involves working with athletes. We discuss the differences in working with male and female footballers and how to encourage adherence to a nutritional plan. Beatriz describes the 4R's that underpin effective nutrition in football as well as the importance of timing when it comes to preparation and refuelling. Finally, Beatriz provides some useful advice about the role of caffeine in performance and wellbeing that are relevant for everyday life as much as athletic training. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 11 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Beatriz Gandra (Nutritionist for F.C. Famalicão Women's first team) full 1 24 Dr Paul Mansell Episode 24 of the podcast is an international edition as Dr Paul Mansell travelled to Porto to interview Beatriz Gandra. Episode 24 of the podcast is an international edition as Dr Paul Mansell travelled to Porto to interview Beatriz Gandra. Beatriz is an expert in nutrition with a specific interest in football. She has provided nutritional support to FC Porto's academy and is now employed full-time at Futebol Club de Famalicão as the women's first-team nutritionist.   Located in the north of Portugal, FC Famalicão Women play in the top tier of Portuguese football. In this episode, the holistic nature of performing under pressure is evident and Beatriz outlines not only how nutrition benefits the players, but how she integrates psychology as a core part of her work with the players. Indeed, this really underscores the important role that psychology has to play in any role that involves working with athletes. We discuss the differences in working with male and female footballers and how to encourage adherence to a nutritional plan. Beatriz describes the 4R's that underpin effective nutrition in football as well as the importance of timing when it comes to preparation and refuelling. Finally, Beatriz provides some useful advice about the role of caffeine in performance and wellbeing that are relevant for everyday life as much as athletic training. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Episode 24 of the podcast is an international edition as Dr Paul Mansell travelled to Porto to interview Beatriz Gandra. Beatriz is an expert in nutrition with a specific interest in football. She has provided nutritional support to FC Porto's academy and is now employed full-time at Futebol Club de Famalicão as the women's first-team nutritionist.  


Located in the north of Portugal, FC Famalicão Women play in the top tier of Portuguese football. In this episode, the holistic nature of performing under pressure is evident and Beatriz outlines not only how nutrition benefits the players, but how she integrates psychology as a core part of her work with the players. Indeed, this really underscores the important role that psychology has to play in any role that involves working with athletes.


We discuss the differences in working with male and female footballers and how to encourage adherence to a nutritional plan. Beatriz describes the 4R's that underpin effective nutrition in football as well as the importance of timing when it comes to preparation and refuelling. Finally, Beatriz provides some useful advice about the role of caffeine in performance and wellbeing that are relevant for everyday life as much as athletic training.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4983 no EP23: Shaun Rogers (Darts Coach) From growing up in Staffordshire to playing darts at a good level himself, Shaun Rogers now runs his own darts coaching academy, and in this episode, host Dr Paul Mansell asks Shaun to explain how he uses psychology to enhance his coaching and as a result, the performance of the players that he works with. Being an individual sport and one that is so different to the other sports that have already featured on the show, this provides a novel perspective on coaching for performance under pressure. A topic that is discussed in detail is the need for a pre-performance routine and Shaun offers his insights as to what constitutes an effective one. Shaun also shares his views on how he integrates psychology within skill acquisition and the need to have a 'magpie mentality' to borrow the best bits from coaching in other sports. Finally, Shaun explains how to create pressure in training situations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 04 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Shaun Rogers (Darts Coach) full 1 23 Dr Paul Mansell In this episode, host Dr Paul Mansell is joined by Shaun Rogers to explain how he uses psychology to enhance his coaching in the world of darts. From growing up in Staffordshire to playing darts at a good level himself, Shaun Rogers now runs his own darts coaching academy, and in this episode, host Dr Paul Mansell asks Shaun to explain how he uses psychology to enhance his coaching and as a result, the performance of the players that he works with. Being an individual sport and one that is so different to the other sports that have already featured on the show, this provides a novel perspective on coaching for performance under pressure. A topic that is discussed in detail is the need for a pre-performance routine and Shaun offers his insights as to what constitutes an effective one. Shaun also shares his views on how he integrates psychology within skill acquisition and the need to have a 'magpie mentality' to borrow the best bits from coaching in other sports. Finally, Shaun explains how to create pressure in training situations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices From growing up in Staffordshire to playing darts at a good level himself, Shaun Rogers now runs his own darts coaching academy, and in this episode, host Dr Paul Mansell asks Shaun to explain how he uses psychology to enhance his coaching and as a result, the performance of the players that he works with. Being an individual sport and one that is so different to the other sports that have already featured on the show, this provides a novel perspective on coaching for performance under pressure. A topic that is discussed in detail is the need for a pre-performance routine and Shaun offers his insights as to what constitutes an effective one. Shaun also shares his views on how he integrates psychology within skill acquisition and the need to have a 'magpie mentality' to borrow the best bits from coaching in other sports. Finally, Shaun explains how to create pressure in training situations.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4023 EP22: Morgan Milne (Dance and Sport Psychology) Our guest in the studio for episode 22 is Morgan Milne. Morgan is completing a PhD at the University of Birmingham and is undertaking research in the field of dance and sport psychology to contribute towards improving dancers' and athletes' mental health. Hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson were keen to explore Morgan's perceptions of performing under pressure as a dancer herself and how her experiences might be shaping her research to help other dancers who are inevitably training and performing under pressure. In this episode, the trio discussed the importance of reappraisal of stress responses to facilitate performance under pressure. Self-talk and social support were highlighted by Morgan as essential as part of the reappraisal process, and using an REBT-informed approach was cited as a useful method to promote flexible thinking. The role of attribution was also considered and Morgan provided useful insights how we can best support individuals who are training and performing in dance and sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 27 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Morgan Milne (Dance and Sport Psychology) full 1 22 Dr Paul Mansell Morgan Milne (Dance and Sport Psychology) Our guest in the studio for episode 22 is Morgan Milne. Morgan is completing a PhD at the University of Birmingham and is undertaking research in the field of dance and sport psychology to contribute towards improving dancers' and athletes' mental health. Hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson were keen to explore Morgan's perceptions of performing under pressure as a dancer herself and how her experiences might be shaping her research to help other dancers who are inevitably training and performing under pressure. In this episode, the trio discussed the importance of reappraisal of stress responses to facilitate performance under pressure. Self-talk and social support were highlighted by Morgan as essential as part of the reappraisal process, and using an REBT-informed approach was cited as a useful method to promote flexible thinking. The role of attribution was also considered and Morgan provided useful insights how we can best support individuals who are training and performing in dance and sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Our guest in the studio for episode 22 is Morgan Milne. Morgan is completing a PhD at the University of Birmingham and is undertaking research in the field of dance and sport psychology to contribute towards improving dancers' and athletes' mental health. Hosts Dr Paul Mansell and Laura Jackson were keen to explore Morgan's perceptions of performing under pressure as a dancer herself and how her experiences might be shaping her research to help other dancers who are inevitably training and performing under pressure.

In this episode, the trio discussed the importance of reappraisal of stress responses to facilitate performance under pressure. Self-talk and social support were highlighted by Morgan as essential as part of the reappraisal process, and using an REBT-informed approach was cited as a useful method to promote flexible thinking. The role of attribution was also considered and Morgan provided useful insights how we can best support individuals who are training and performing in dance and sport.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3425 EP21: Prof Matt Slater (Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology at Staffordshire University) Episode 21 features an in-depth interview with one of our own - Professor Matt Slater. Matt is an expert on group dynamics and leadership and is the author of the book 'Togetherness'. The idea of togetherness features heavily in this episode and Matt outlines the importance of being a connoisseur of your team to understand how to get the best out of them. We discuss the idea of leading to facilitate performance under pressure and how connection and trust can play a key role in this. Matt also reflects on performing under pressure as an individual and describes the importance of the Theory of Challenge and Threat States in athletes in his work. We conclude by asking what advice he would give to his younger self... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 20 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Prof Matt Slater (Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology at Staffordshire University) full 1 21 Dr Paul Mansell Episode 21 features an in-depth interview with one of our own - Professor Matt Slater. Episode 21 features an in-depth interview with one of our own - Professor Matt Slater. Matt is an expert on group dynamics and leadership and is the author of the book 'Togetherness'. The idea of togetherness features heavily in this episode and Matt outlines the importance of being a connoisseur of your team to understand how to get the best out of them. We discuss the idea of leading to facilitate performance under pressure and how connection and trust can play a key role in this. Matt also reflects on performing under pressure as an individual and describes the importance of the Theory of Challenge and Threat States in athletes in his work. We conclude by asking what advice he would give to his younger self... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Episode 21 features an in-depth interview with one of our own - Professor Matt Slater. Matt is an expert on group dynamics and leadership and is the author of the book 'Togetherness'. The idea of togetherness features heavily in this episode and Matt outlines the importance of being a connoisseur of your team to understand how to get the best out of them. We discuss the idea of leading to facilitate performance under pressure and how connection and trust can play a key role in this. Matt also reflects on performing under pressure as an individual and describes the importance of the Theory of Challenge and Threat States in athletes in his work. We conclude by asking what advice he would give to his younger self...

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]]> 4586 no EP20: Dr Mark Williams (Cognitive neuroscientist) Cognitive neuroscientist Dr Mark Williams joined Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell in discussing how the brain can influence wellbeing and performance. Author of the acclaimed book 'The Connected Species', Mark has over 25 years experience of research in this area and has worked at universities in Australia and the USA. In this episode, the trio discussed the role of the brain in skill learning and how we might use knowledge of neuroscience to aid performance under pressure.  The conversation then moved onto new topics that have yet to be explored on the podcast, such as the formation and maintenance of habits and the role of social media in wellbeing and performance. The role of technology in the workplace was debated and Mark provides some useful applied suggestions in this area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 13 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Dr Mark Williams (Cognitive neuroscientist) full 1 20 Dr Paul Mansell Cognitive neuroscientist Dr Mark Williams joined Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell in discussing how the brain can influence wellbeing and performance. Cognitive neuroscientist Dr Mark Williams joined Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell in discussing how the brain can influence wellbeing and performance. Author of the acclaimed book 'The Connected Species', Mark has over 25 years experience of research in this area and has worked at universities in Australia and the USA. In this episode, the trio discussed the role of the brain in skill learning and how we might use knowledge of neuroscience to aid performance under pressure.  The conversation then moved onto new topics that have yet to be explored on the podcast, such as the formation and maintenance of habits and the role of social media in wellbeing and performance. The role of technology in the workplace was debated and Mark provides some useful applied suggestions in this area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Cognitive neuroscientist Dr Mark Williams joined Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell in discussing how the brain can influence wellbeing and performance. Author of the acclaimed book 'The Connected Species', Mark has over 25 years experience of research in this area and has worked at universities in Australia and the USA. In this episode, the trio discussed the role of the brain in skill learning and how we might use knowledge of neuroscience to aid performance under pressure. 

The conversation then moved onto new topics that have yet to be explored on the podcast, such as the formation and maintenance of habits and the role of social media in wellbeing and performance. The role of technology in the workplace was debated and Mark provides some useful applied suggestions in this area.

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]]> 3641 no EP19: Faye Gaskin (Half Back for St.Helens R.F.C) Joining us ahead of her appearance in the Women's Challenge Cup Final, Faye Gaskin joined Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell for a conversation about performing under pressure. In addition to playing rugby league, Faye is a lecturer and a CrossFit coach. Faye spoke about the challenging circumstances in her career such as her mindset in returning from a career-threatening injury to represent St Helens at Wembley.  Faye went into a lot of detail as to how she is able to perform well and how she helps others to perform. She spoke about generating evidence to increase confidence through working hard, and the need for accountability and honesty. Faye uses the phrase of 'pressure as a privilege' and sees nerves as a sign of readiness to perform. The trio discuss the importance of routine in preparation and recovery, and Faye provides practical advice as to how to support an athlete with a serious injury. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 06 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Faye Gaskin (Half Back for St.Helens R.F.C) full 1 19 Dr Paul Mansell Joining us ahead of her appearance in the Women's Challenge Cup Final, Faye Gaskin joined Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell for a conversation about performing under pressure. Joining us ahead of her appearance in the Women's Challenge Cup Final, Faye Gaskin joined Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell for a conversation about performing under pressure. In addition to playing rugby league, Faye is a lecturer and a CrossFit coach. Faye spoke about the challenging circumstances in her career such as her mindset in returning from a career-threatening injury to represent St Helens at Wembley.  Faye went into a lot of detail as to how she is able to perform well and how she helps others to perform. She spoke about generating evidence to increase confidence through working hard, and the need for accountability and honesty. Faye uses the phrase of 'pressure as a privilege' and sees nerves as a sign of readiness to perform. The trio discuss the importance of routine in preparation and recovery, and Faye provides practical advice as to how to support an athlete with a serious injury. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Joining us ahead of her appearance in the Women's Challenge Cup Final, Faye Gaskin joined Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell for a conversation about performing under pressure. In addition to playing rugby league, Faye is a lecturer and a CrossFit coach. Faye spoke about the challenging circumstances in her career such as her mindset in returning from a career-threatening injury to represent St Helens at Wembley. 

Faye went into a lot of detail as to how she is able to perform well and how she helps others to perform. She spoke about generating evidence to increase confidence through working hard, and the need for accountability and honesty. Faye uses the phrase of 'pressure as a privilege' and sees nerves as a sign of readiness to perform. The trio discuss the importance of routine in preparation and recovery, and Faye provides practical advice as to how to support an athlete with a serious injury.

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]]> 4183 no EP18: Jake Jervis (Former Plymouth and Birmingham striker) Recently retired professional footballer Jake Jervis joined Dr Karla Drew and Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss his experiences of performing under pressure in his career as a footballer whilst also discussing key transitions into and out of the game. Making over 300 appearances in his career, Jake played for Plymouth, Birmingham City, Portsmouth and Luton among others in the UK and also spent time playing in Turkey and Finland.  Jake described making his debut as a young player for Birmingham City at Goodison Park and what he learned from playing abroad. We discussed the importance of player care and how Jake's firm belief in the importance of this has been a motivating factor in him now training to be a counsellor. Key messages that Jake conveyed included controlling the controllables, the need to do the basics well even when nobody is watching and how being able to switch off from football and be present with family leads to a greater feeling of balance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 30 May 2024 08:16:00 -0000 Jake Jervis (Former Plymouth and Birmingham striker) full 1 18 Dr Paul Mansell Recently retired professional footballer Jake Jervis joined Dr Karla Drew and Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss his experiences of performing under pressure. Recently retired professional footballer Jake Jervis joined Dr Karla Drew and Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss his experiences of performing under pressure in his career as a footballer whilst also discussing key transitions into and out of the game. Making over 300 appearances in his career, Jake played for Plymouth, Birmingham City, Portsmouth and Luton among others in the UK and also spent time playing in Turkey and Finland.  Jake described making his debut as a young player for Birmingham City at Goodison Park and what he learned from playing abroad. We discussed the importance of player care and how Jake's firm belief in the importance of this has been a motivating factor in him now training to be a counsellor. Key messages that Jake conveyed included controlling the controllables, the need to do the basics well even when nobody is watching and how being able to switch off from football and be present with family leads to a greater feeling of balance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Recently retired professional footballer Jake Jervis joined Dr Karla Drew and Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss his experiences of performing under pressure in his career as a footballer whilst also discussing key transitions into and out of the game. Making over 300 appearances in his career, Jake played for Plymouth, Birmingham City, Portsmouth and Luton among others in the UK and also spent time playing in Turkey and Finland. 

Jake described making his debut as a young player for Birmingham City at Goodison Park and what he learned from playing abroad. We discussed the importance of player care and how Jake's firm belief in the importance of this has been a motivating factor in him now training to be a counsellor. Key messages that Jake conveyed included controlling the controllables, the need to do the basics well even when nobody is watching and how being able to switch off from football and be present with family leads to a greater feeling of balance.

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]]> 4689 EP17: Courtney Pitt (Lead U11-12 coach at Wolves and former professional footballer) Former Portsmouth, Cambridge and Luton winger Courtney Pitt dropped into the studio to chat about performing under pressure with Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock. Courtney is an ex-Staffordshire University student and then went on to become Head of Academy Coaching at Burton Albion. More recently, Courtney has moved to Wolves where he is the Lead U11/12 Phase Coach. In this episode, Courtney describes how he reacted to interest from Barcelona as a young player. His approach to pressure was to embrace it, and as a player, he loved playing in the big games. Since retiring, he has committed his career to helping others perform under pressure, and describes how he creates situations of pressure for young players in training. He outlines the role of psychology provision at the club for young footballers and how this is important as a life skill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 23 May 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Courtney Pitt (Lead U11-12 coach at Wolves and former professional footballer) full 1 17 Dr Paul Mansell Former Portsmouth, Cambridge and Luton winger Courtney Pitt dropped into the studio to chat about performing under pressure with Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock. Courtney is an ex-Staffordshire University student and then went on to become Head of Academy Coaching at Burton Albion. More recently, Courtney has moved to Wolves where he is the Lead U11/12 Phase Coach. In this episode, Courtney describes how he reacted to interest from Barcelona as a young player. His approach to pressure was to embrace it, and as a player, he loved playing in the big games. Since retiring, he has committed his career to helping others perform under pressure, and describes how he creates situations of pressure for young players in training. He outlines the role of psychology provision at the club for young footballers and how this is important as a life skill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Former Portsmouth, Cambridge and Luton winger Courtney Pitt dropped into the studio to chat about performing under pressure with Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock. Courtney is an ex-Staffordshire University student and then went on to become Head of Academy Coaching at Burton Albion. More recently, Courtney has moved to Wolves where he is the Lead U11/12 Phase Coach.

In this episode, Courtney describes how he reacted to interest from Barcelona as a young player. His approach to pressure was to embrace it, and as a player, he loved playing in the big games. Since retiring, he has committed his career to helping others perform under pressure, and describes how he creates situations of pressure for young players in training. He outlines the role of psychology provision at the club for young footballers and how this is important as a life skill.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 2658 no EP16: Edgar Kazibwe (Uganda Cricket In-training Sport Psychologist) Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater are joined by Staffordshire University alumni, Edgar Kazibwe, a Sport Psychologist in-training for the Uganda Cricket Men and Women’s Senior and U19 National Team. This episode has been recorded ahead of Edgar's work in preparing the Uganda Men's team for their forthcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA. In this episode, Edgar talks about techniques he uses with the cricketers to get them mentally ready for big matches and tournaments, such as introducing personal-disclosure mutual-sharing (PDMS) through 'Story Mondays', where every week he sits the players down as a group and asks them to narrate a unique story of their experience over the weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 16 May 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Edgar Kazibwe (Uganda Cricket In-training Sport Psychologist) full Dr Paul Mansell Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater are joined by Staffordshire University alumni and in-training Sport Psychologist, Edgar Kazibwe. Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater are joined by Staffordshire University alumni, Edgar Kazibwe, a Sport Psychologist in-training for the Uganda Cricket Men and Women’s Senior and U19 National Team. This episode has been recorded ahead of Edgar's work in preparing the Uganda Men's team for their forthcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA. In this episode, Edgar talks about techniques he uses with the cricketers to get them mentally ready for big matches and tournaments, such as introducing personal-disclosure mutual-sharing (PDMS) through 'Story Mondays', where every week he sits the players down as a group and asks them to narrate a unique story of their experience over the weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater are joined by Staffordshire University alumni, Edgar Kazibwe, a Sport Psychologist in-training for the Uganda Cricket Men and Women’s Senior and U19 National Team.

This episode has been recorded ahead of Edgar's work in preparing the Uganda Men's team for their forthcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA. In this episode, Edgar talks about techniques he uses with the cricketers to get them mentally ready for big matches and tournaments, such as introducing personal-disclosure mutual-sharing (PDMS) through 'Story Mondays', where every week he sits the players down as a group and asks them to narrate a unique story of their experience over the weekend.

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]]> 3540 EP15: Angelina Nixon (Rugby Borough WFC winger) Rugby Borough Women's forward Angelina Nixon joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss her experiences of performing under pressure in football. Angelina has previously played for Cambridge United, MK Dons, Leicester City, Birmingham City and has been involved with the England youth setup. She describes her background of growing up playing football against boys and her perceptions of being a female footballer.  Angelina described some of the strategies that she uses to allow her to perform well. Gratitude is highlighted as a strategy to keep her focus on the present, religion is very important to her, and she explains how she uses visualisation as a psychological skill to help her to prepare for big games. Angelina's approach to seeing everything as an opportunity to learn and develop is a clear part of her approach to being an elite athlete, indeed, she sees her psychological work as being akin to working on her fitness in the gym. We also discuss the importance of being a good team-mate and how this can facilitate performance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 09 May 2024 07:00:00 -0000 Angelina Nixon (Rugby Borough WFC winger) full 1 15 Dr Paul Mansell Rugby Borough Women's forward Angelina Nixon joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss her experiences of performing under pressure in football. Angelina has previously played for Cambridge United, MK Dons, Leicester City, Birmingham City and has been involved with the England youth setup. She describes her background of growing up playing football against boys and her perceptions of being a female footballer.  Angelina described some of the strategies that she uses to allow her to perform well. Gratitude is highlighted as a strategy to keep her focus on the present, religion is very important to her, and she explains how she uses visualisation as a psychological skill to help her to prepare for big games. Angelina's approach to seeing everything as an opportunity to learn and develop is a clear part of her approach to being an elite athlete, indeed, she sees her psychological work as being akin to working on her fitness in the gym. We also discuss the importance of being a good team-mate and how this can facilitate performance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Rugby Borough Women's forward Angelina Nixon joined Dr Paul Mansell in the studio to discuss her experiences of performing under pressure in football. Angelina has previously played for Cambridge United, MK Dons, Leicester City, Birmingham City and has been involved with the England youth setup. She describes her background of growing up playing football against boys and her perceptions of being a female footballer. 

Angelina described some of the strategies that she uses to allow her to perform well. Gratitude is highlighted as a strategy to keep her focus on the present, religion is very important to her, and she explains how she uses visualisation as a psychological skill to help her to prepare for big games. Angelina's approach to seeing everything as an opportunity to learn and develop is a clear part of her approach to being an elite athlete, indeed, she sees her psychological work as being akin to working on her fitness in the gym. We also discuss the importance of being a good team-mate and how this can facilitate performance.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3455 no EP14: Dan Abrahams (Sport Psychologist) Renowned sport psychologist Dan Abrahams is this week's guest on the podcast. Dan has worked with athletes across many different sports but with a particular focus on football and golf. An ex-professional golfer himself, Dan is also the founder and host of the hugely popular Sport Psych Show podcast.  In this episode, Dr Katie Sparks and Dr Paul Mansell tap into Dan's vast experience in the domain of sport and performance psychology. Dan describes what he understands by performing under pressure. Dan offers some practical techniques that he applies with athletes, such as the idea of adopting a 'Game Face'. Dan describes his thoughts on helping athletes to deal with mistakes and how emotion might be managed in the moment. Useful advice for practice is also shared on how to prepare for an important event, and how ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts) might play a role in this. Dan is also a prolific writer and his books can be accessed via this link: https://danabrahams.com/books/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 02 May 2024 07:30:00 -0000 Dan Abrahams (Sport Psychologist) full 1 14 Dr Paul Mansell Renowned sport psychologist Dan Abrahams is this week's guest on the podcast. Renowned sport psychologist Dan Abrahams is this week's guest on the podcast. Dan has worked with athletes across many different sports but with a particular focus on football and golf. An ex-professional golfer himself, Dan is also the founder and host of the hugely popular Sport Psych Show podcast.  In this episode, Dr Katie Sparks and Dr Paul Mansell tap into Dan's vast experience in the domain of sport and performance psychology. Dan describes what he understands by performing under pressure. Dan offers some practical techniques that he applies with athletes, such as the idea of adopting a 'Game Face'. Dan describes his thoughts on helping athletes to deal with mistakes and how emotion might be managed in the moment. Useful advice for practice is also shared on how to prepare for an important event, and how ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts) might play a role in this. Dan is also a prolific writer and his books can be accessed via this link: https://danabrahams.com/books/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Renowned sport psychologist Dan Abrahams is this week's guest on the podcast. Dan has worked with athletes across many different sports but with a particular focus on football and golf. An ex-professional golfer himself, Dan is also the founder and host of the hugely popular Sport Psych Show podcast. 

In this episode, Dr Katie Sparks and Dr Paul Mansell tap into Dan's vast experience in the domain of sport and performance psychology. Dan describes what he understands by performing under pressure. Dan offers some practical techniques that he applies with athletes, such as the idea of adopting a 'Game Face'.

Dan describes his thoughts on helping athletes to deal with mistakes and how emotion might be managed in the moment. Useful advice for practice is also shared on how to prepare for an important event, and how ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts) might play a role in this. Dan is also a prolific writer and his books can be accessed via this link: https://danabrahams.com/books/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 4568 no EP13: Ashley Reece (MMA fighter) MMA fighter Ashley 'The Beast' Reece joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson ahead of his Welterweight Title fight in Arizona. Based in Staffordshire, Ashley is our first guest from a combat sport and therefore provided a unique insight into the demands of performing under pressure. Ashley is also a coach of young athletes and shares his advice on how he helps them to perform under pressure. Other topics are also discussed by the trio, such as the need to channel anger, the need to 'bank' criticism to use at a later date rather than persistently dwelling on it, and the good and bad side of self-talk. Ashley shares his 'hunter mentality' and how that helps him in the specific domain of his sport. Training to perform under pressure is also addressed, and Ashley describes the need to make training sufficiently challenging so that when the event comes, he feels relaxed and ready. Finally, he shares the importance of bouncing back after a defeat by using the near miss as fuel towards the next one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:01:27 -0000 Ashley Reece (MMA fighter) full 1 13 Dr Paul Mansell MMA fighter Ashley 'The Beast' Reece joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson ahead of his Welterweight Title fight in Arizona. MMA fighter Ashley 'The Beast' Reece joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson ahead of his Welterweight Title fight in Arizona. Based in Staffordshire, Ashley is our first guest from a combat sport and therefore provided a unique insight into the demands of performing under pressure. Ashley is also a coach of young athletes and shares his advice on how he helps them to perform under pressure. Other topics are also discussed by the trio, such as the need to channel anger, the need to 'bank' criticism to use at a later date rather than persistently dwelling on it, and the good and bad side of self-talk. Ashley shares his 'hunter mentality' and how that helps him in the specific domain of his sport. Training to perform under pressure is also addressed, and Ashley describes the need to make training sufficiently challenging so that when the event comes, he feels relaxed and ready. Finally, he shares the importance of bouncing back after a defeat by using the near miss as fuel towards the next one. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices MMA fighter Ashley 'The Beast' Reece joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson ahead of his Welterweight Title fight in Arizona. Based in Staffordshire, Ashley is our first guest from a combat sport and therefore provided a unique insight into the demands of performing under pressure. Ashley is also a coach of young athletes and shares his advice on how he helps them to perform under pressure.

Other topics are also discussed by the trio, such as the need to channel anger, the need to 'bank' criticism to use at a later date rather than persistently dwelling on it, and the good and bad side of self-talk. Ashley shares his 'hunter mentality' and how that helps him in the specific domain of his sport. Training to perform under pressure is also addressed, and Ashley describes the need to make training sufficiently challenging so that when the event comes, he feels relaxed and ready. Finally, he shares the importance of bouncing back after a defeat by using the near miss as fuel towards the next one.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3253 no EP12: Phil Walklate (Headteacher at Erasmus Darwin Academy) Inspirational Erasmus Darwin Academy Headteacher, Phil Walklate joins Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock in the studio to talk about his experiences of pressure in an educational setting. Given the responsibility of Phil's job, he describes his general approach to performing well himself as a leader whilst also allowing others to flourish. Studying an undergraduate at Staffordshire University, Phil then completed a PGCE in Physical Education, earning him a job as a PE teacher, before eventually working his way up the ladder to being a Headteacher. Now managing over 100 members of staff and nearly 1200 students, Phil has to deal with the pressures of ensuring his students are receiving the best experience possible. The trio discuss the importance of using values as a way of leading under pressure, how a leader should focus on the personal development of their team, and how to perform well when the focus is on outcomes. Phil details the important of transparency in leadership and how showing vulnerability by sharing stories is an effective in allowing connections to form between individuals. The idea of avoiding groupthink is also discussed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 18 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Phil Walklate full 1 12 Dr Paul Mansell Erasmus Darwin Academy Headteacher, Phil Walklate joins Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock in the studio Inspirational Erasmus Darwin Academy Headteacher, Phil Walklate joins Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock in the studio to talk about his experiences of pressure in an educational setting. Given the responsibility of Phil's job, he describes his general approach to performing well himself as a leader whilst also allowing others to flourish. Studying an undergraduate at Staffordshire University, Phil then completed a PGCE in Physical Education, earning him a job as a PE teacher, before eventually working his way up the ladder to being a Headteacher. Now managing over 100 members of staff and nearly 1200 students, Phil has to deal with the pressures of ensuring his students are receiving the best experience possible. The trio discuss the importance of using values as a way of leading under pressure, how a leader should focus on the personal development of their team, and how to perform well when the focus is on outcomes. Phil details the important of transparency in leadership and how showing vulnerability by sharing stories is an effective in allowing connections to form between individuals. The idea of avoiding groupthink is also discussed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Inspirational Erasmus Darwin Academy Headteacher, Phil Walklate joins Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock in the studio to talk about his experiences of pressure in an educational setting. Given the responsibility of Phil's job, he describes his general approach to performing well himself as a leader whilst also allowing others to flourish.

Studying an undergraduate at Staffordshire University, Phil then completed a PGCE in Physical Education, earning him a job as a PE teacher, before eventually working his way up the ladder to being a Headteacher.

Now managing over 100 members of staff and nearly 1200 students, Phil has to deal with the pressures of ensuring his students are receiving the best experience possible. The trio discuss the importance of using values as a way of leading under pressure, how a leader should focus on the personal development of their team, and how to perform well when the focus is on outcomes.

Phil details the important of transparency in leadership and how showing vulnerability by sharing stories is an effective in allowing connections to form between individuals. The idea of avoiding groupthink is also discussed.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

]]> 3694 no EP11: Ellie Wilson (Wolves Women defender) Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks are joined by current Wolves Women defender Ellie Wilson as they quiz her on how she deals with the pressures of playing football at an elite level. Ellie represented England up to Under 23s and has played in the WSL and Championship for Reading, Bristol City, London Bees and Sheffield United. In this episode, Ellie provides a very positive view towards pressure. Ellie describes in detail how she uses visualisation on the pitch before a game to ready herself for any situation she may find herself in. She also shares advice given to her by others, such as making sure you've got 'fire in your belly, but ice in your mind'. The importance of analysing performance and dealing effectively with mistakes is also discussed. The trio also share their guilty pleasures with some surprising revelations! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 11 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Ellie Wilson full 1 11 Dr Paul Mansell Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks are joined by current Wolves Women's defender Ellie Wilson Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks are joined by current Wolves Women defender Ellie Wilson as they quiz her on how she deals with the pressures of playing football at an elite level. Ellie represented England up to Under 23s and has played in the WSL and Championship for Reading, Bristol City, London Bees and Sheffield United. In this episode, Ellie provides a very positive view towards pressure. Ellie describes in detail how she uses visualisation on the pitch before a game to ready herself for any situation she may find herself in. She also shares advice given to her by others, such as making sure you've got 'fire in your belly, but ice in your mind'. The importance of analysing performance and dealing effectively with mistakes is also discussed. The trio also share their guilty pleasures with some surprising revelations! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Katie Sparks are joined by current Wolves Women defender Ellie Wilson as they quiz her on how she deals with the pressures of playing football at an elite level. Ellie represented England up to Under 23s and has played in the WSL and Championship for Reading, Bristol City, London Bees and Sheffield United.

In this episode, Ellie provides a very positive view towards pressure. Ellie describes in detail how she uses visualisation on the pitch before a game to ready herself for any situation she may find herself in. She also shares advice given to her by others, such as making sure you've got 'fire in your belly, but ice in your mind'. The importance of analysing performance and dealing effectively with mistakes is also discussed. The trio also share their guilty pleasures with some surprising revelations!

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]]> 2994 no EP10: Tawanda Chirewa (Wolves forward) Premier League footballer Tawanda Chirewa joined Dr Paul Mansell and Sam Westley in the studio to discuss his approach to performing at the top level of the game. Our youngest guest to date, the 20-year old attacking midfielder made his Premier League debut for Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this year having joined from Ipswich Town in 2023. In his first in-depth interview, Tawanda spoke of his use of self-talk (affirmations) to help put himself in the best place to perform well. He describes some of the nuances of pressure that players transitioning from academy to the first team may experience. Tawanda also spoke about the importance of being a good person around the training ground and how some of the senior players at the club had welcomed him into the group. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 04 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0000 Tawanda Chirewa full 1 10 Dr Paul Mansell Premier League footballer Tawanda Chirewa joined Dr Paul Mansell and Sam Westley in the studio to discuss his approach to performing at the top level of the game. Our youngest guest to date, the 20-year old attacking midfielder made his Premier League debut for Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this year having joined from Ipswich Town in 2023. In his first in-depth interview, Tawanda spoke of his use of self-talk (affirmations) to help put himself in the best place to perform well. He describes some of the nuances of pressure that players transitioning from academy to the first team may experience. Tawanda also spoke about the importance of being a good person around the training ground and how some of the senior players at the club had welcomed him into the group. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Premier League footballer Tawanda Chirewa joined Dr Paul Mansell and Sam Westley in the studio to discuss his approach to performing at the top level of the game. Our youngest guest to date, the 20-year old attacking midfielder made his Premier League debut for Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this year having joined from Ipswich Town in 2023.

In his first in-depth interview, Tawanda spoke of his use of self-talk (affirmations) to help put himself in the best place to perform well. He describes some of the nuances of pressure that players transitioning from academy to the first team may experience. Tawanda also spoke about the importance of being a good person around the training ground and how some of the senior players at the club had welcomed him into the group.

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]]> 3004 no EP9: Harry Baker (England Cerebral Palsy international) Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell welcome England Cerebral Palsy international Harry Baker into the studio to explore his perceptions of performing under pressure in elite disability sport. Harry is closing in on 50 caps for England and has played at World Cups and European Championships, winning the golden boot in 2018. He shares his disappointment about missing out on a trip to the Paralympics and how a shift in his mindset about being left out of the squad was a huge moment in his career. His describes his use of visualisation and how he adopts a 'goldfish mentality' to deal with mistakes. In his role as a @RafikiThabo Foundation Patron, he describes the strategies he used to help him climb Mount Kilimanjaro having been told by a doctor that he might not be able to walk when he was a child. Harry underlines the importance of emotional responsibility and accountability when it comes to dealing with pressure, highlighting the need for flexible thinking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000 Harry Baker full 1 9 Dr Paul Mansell Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell welcome England Cerebral Palsy international Harry Baker. Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell welcome England Cerebral Palsy international Harry Baker into the studio to explore his perceptions of performing under pressure in elite disability sport. Harry is closing in on 50 caps for England and has played at World Cups and European Championships, winning the golden boot in 2018. He shares his disappointment about missing out on a trip to the Paralympics and how a shift in his mindset about being left out of the squad was a huge moment in his career. His describes his use of visualisation and how he adopts a 'goldfish mentality' to deal with mistakes. In his role as a @RafikiThabo Foundation Patron, he describes the strategies he used to help him climb Mount Kilimanjaro having been told by a doctor that he might not be able to walk when he was a child. Harry underlines the importance of emotional responsibility and accountability when it comes to dealing with pressure, highlighting the need for flexible thinking. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell welcome England Cerebral Palsy international Harry Baker into the studio to explore his perceptions of performing under pressure in elite disability sport. Harry is closing in on 50 caps for England and has played at World Cups and European Championships, winning the golden boot in 2018. He shares his disappointment about missing out on a trip to the Paralympics and how a shift in his mindset about being left out of the squad was a huge moment in his career. His describes his use of visualisation and how he adopts a 'goldfish mentality' to deal with mistakes.

In his role as a @RafikiThabo Foundation Patron, he describes the strategies he used to help him climb Mount Kilimanjaro having been told by a doctor that he might not be able to walk when he was a child. Harry underlines the importance of emotional responsibility and accountability when it comes to dealing with pressure, highlighting the need for flexible thinking.

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]]> 3185 no EP8: Ella Tagliavini (Fulham Women defender) Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson were delighted to welcome former Loughborough University colleague and current Fulham Women's defender Dr Ella Tagliavini into the studio to delve into her insights on performing under pressure. Ella has captained England at youth level and also also played for Chelsea. She has completed a PhD which examines parenting in sport and currently lectures at UCFB. Ella shares her reflections on taking advice from Dame Denise Lewis and outlines that a combination of experience and reflection are necessary for growth, which in turn leads to better subsequent performance under pressure. Perspective taking is highlight as a key approach to dealing with pressure as well as the need for social support from inside the club as well as friends and family. Ella details her use of imagery and how the use of video analysis might compliment this. In her advice to her younger self, she talks about the need to embrace pressure. Finally, we circle back to parenting in sport and how they might be able to facilitate performing under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 21 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000 Ella Tagliavini full Dr Paul Mansell Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson were delighted to welcome current Fulham Women's defender Dr Ella Tagliavini into the studio. Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson were delighted to welcome former Loughborough University colleague and current Fulham Women's defender Dr Ella Tagliavini into the studio to delve into her insights on performing under pressure. Ella has captained England at youth level and also also played for Chelsea. She has completed a PhD which examines parenting in sport and currently lectures at UCFB. Ella shares her reflections on taking advice from Dame Denise Lewis and outlines that a combination of experience and reflection are necessary for growth, which in turn leads to better subsequent performance under pressure. Perspective taking is highlight as a key approach to dealing with pressure as well as the need for social support from inside the club as well as friends and family. Ella details her use of imagery and how the use of video analysis might compliment this. In her advice to her younger self, she talks about the need to embrace pressure. Finally, we circle back to parenting in sport and how they might be able to facilitate performing under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson were delighted to welcome former Loughborough University colleague and current Fulham Women's defender Dr Ella Tagliavini into the studio to delve into her insights on performing under pressure. Ella has captained England at youth level and also also played for Chelsea. She has completed a PhD which examines parenting in sport and currently lectures at UCFB.

Ella shares her reflections on taking advice from Dame Denise Lewis and outlines that a combination of experience and reflection are necessary for growth, which in turn leads to better subsequent performance under pressure. Perspective taking is highlight as a key approach to dealing with pressure as well as the need for social support from inside the club as well as friends and family. Ella details her use of imagery and how the use of video analysis might compliment this. In her advice to her younger self, she talks about the need to embrace pressure. Finally, we circle back to parenting in sport and how they might be able to facilitate performing under pressure.

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]]> 2761 EP7: Kane Wilson (Derby County defender) Derby County defender Kane Wilson joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson in our studio at Staffordshire University. Nominated for a place in League Two team of the year whilst at Forest Green Rovers, Kane has also played for West Bromwich Albion, Exeter City, Walsall and Bristol City, as well as representing England up to under 18 level alongside the likes of Phil Foden. For Kane, expectation is where pressure is created and experienced. He describes his use of self-talk to help him re-focus after making a mistake and gives an insight into how a 'Why Wall' can be an effective tool to help in the moments before kick-off. We discuss the utility of combining professional sport and studying, and the importance of unwinding from both of those through spending time with family.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 14 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000 Kane Wilson full 1 7 Dr Paul Mansell Derby County defender Kane Wilson joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson in our studio at Staffordshire University. Derby County defender Kane Wilson joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson in our studio at Staffordshire University. Nominated for a place in League Two team of the year whilst at Forest Green Rovers, Kane has also played for West Bromwich Albion, Exeter City, Walsall and Bristol City, as well as representing England up to under 18 level alongside the likes of Phil Foden. For Kane, expectation is where pressure is created and experienced. He describes his use of self-talk to help him re-focus after making a mistake and gives an insight into how a 'Why Wall' can be an effective tool to help in the moments before kick-off. We discuss the utility of combining professional sport and studying, and the importance of unwinding from both of those through spending time with family.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Derby County defender Kane Wilson joined Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Andrew Wilkinson in our studio at Staffordshire University. Nominated for a place in League Two team of the year whilst at Forest Green Rovers, Kane has also played for West Bromwich Albion, Exeter City, Walsall and Bristol City, as well as representing England up to under 18 level alongside the likes of Phil Foden.

For Kane, expectation is where pressure is created and experienced. He describes his use of self-talk to help him re-focus after making a mistake and gives an insight into how a 'Why Wall' can be an effective tool to help in the moments before kick-off. We discuss the utility of combining professional sport and studying, and the importance of unwinding from both of those through spending time with family. 

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]]> 2853 no EP6: Seb de Chaves (Premiership Rugby Player) In today's episode, Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell are joined by Premiership rugby player Sebastian de Chaves. A youth international for South Africa, Sebastian has also represented Mont de Marsan, Leicester Tigers, London Irish and more recently, Newcastle Falcons. Sebastian has also completed an MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Staffordshire University. Sebastian shares his views on what it means to perform under pressure and how his relationship with pressure has changed over the course of his career. As a more experienced player, he also describes how he might influence younger members of the team to help them to perform well. Preparation is highlighted as a crucial element of performing under pressure - a skill that is considered to be transferable across other domains. He reflects on the advice he would give to his younger self to perform well in demanding circumstances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 07 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000 Sebastian de Chaves full 1 6 Dr Paul Mansell In today's episode, Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell are joined by Premiership rugby player Sebastian de Chaves. A youth international for South Africa, Sebastian has also represented Mont de Marsan, Leicester Tigers, London Irish and more recently, Newcastle Falcons. Sebastian has also completed an MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Staffordshire University. Sebastian shares his views on what it means to perform under pressure and how his relationship with pressure has changed over the course of his career. As a more experienced player, he also describes how he might influence younger members of the team to help them to perform well. Preparation is highlighted as a crucial element of performing under pressure - a skill that is considered to be transferable across other domains. He reflects on the advice he would give to his younger self to perform well in demanding circumstances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In today's episode, Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell are joined by Premiership rugby player Sebastian de Chaves. A youth international for South Africa, Sebastian has also represented Mont de Marsan, Leicester Tigers, London Irish and more recently, Newcastle Falcons. Sebastian has also completed an MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Staffordshire University.

Sebastian shares his views on what it means to perform under pressure and how his relationship with pressure has changed over the course of his career. As a more experienced player, he also describes how he might influence younger members of the team to help them to perform well. Preparation is highlighted as a crucial element of performing under pressure - a skill that is considered to be transferable across other domains. He reflects on the advice he would give to his younger self to perform well in demanding circumstances.

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]]> 2827 no EP5: Sam Winnall (Former Wolves and Barnsley Striker) Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell interview former professional footballer Sam Winnall about his experiences about performing under pressure. Sam started his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers and enjoyed success at a number of clubs, including winning the League 2 Golden Boot award in 2014 with Scunthorpe United and representing Barnsley, Sheffield Wednesday, Derby County, Burton Albion and Oxford United. Sam describes how he enjoyed the pressure of scoring goals and how he focused on his own performance in order to benefit the team. He talks about the growing emphasis on performance psychology in sport and laments not being able to access such support when he was starting his career. He emphasises the need for consistency in preparing to perform well under pressure, keeping it simple in the process. Since retiring, Sam describes the route he is now taking to support others. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:30:00 -0000 Sam Winnall full 1 5 Dr Paul Mansell Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell interview former professional footballer Sam Winnall about his experiences about performing under pressure. Sam started his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers and enjoyed success at a number of clubs, including winning the League 2 Golden Boot award in 2014 with Scunthorpe United and representing Barnsley, Sheffield Wednesday, Derby County, Burton Albion and Oxford United. Sam describes how he enjoyed the pressure of scoring goals and how he focused on his own performance in order to benefit the team. He talks about the growing emphasis on performance psychology in sport and laments not being able to access such support when he was starting his career. He emphasises the need for consistency in preparing to perform well under pressure, keeping it simple in the process. Since retiring, Sam describes the route he is now taking to support others. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Professor Matt Slater and Dr Paul Mansell interview former professional footballer Sam Winnall about his experiences about performing under pressure. Sam started his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers and enjoyed success at a number of clubs, including winning the League 2 Golden Boot award in 2014 with Scunthorpe United and representing Barnsley, Sheffield Wednesday, Derby County, Burton Albion and Oxford United.

Sam describes how he enjoyed the pressure of scoring goals and how he focused on his own performance in order to benefit the team. He talks about the growing emphasis on performance psychology in sport and laments not being able to access such support when he was starting his career. He emphasises the need for consistency in preparing to perform well under pressure, keeping it simple in the process. Since retiring, Sam describes the route he is now taking to support others.

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]]> 2750 no EP4: Meg Baldwin (Port Vale Women captain) During this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock interview Port Vale Women's captain Meg Baldwin about her experiences of performing under pressure. Meg is also a broadcaster for BBC Radio Stoke, Head of Sport at Thistley Hough Academy in Stoke-on-Trent, a football coach, a Visiting Lecturer at Staffordshire University and a parent. This makes for interesting comparisons in performing under pressure in her various roles. Meg grew up in a busy household with five siblings and shares how this has shaped her views of performing under pressure. Despite not having any formal training in performing in demanding circumstances, she offers the useful distinction between enjoying pressure and valuing it. She also offers some interesting reflections on reacting to mistakes and how to influence those around her who need to perform under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 22 Feb 2024 09:30:00 -0000 Meg Baldwin full 1 4 Dr Paul Mansell Port Vale Women's captain Meg Baldwin discusses how she handles pressure in her many roles. During this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock interview Port Vale Women's captain Meg Baldwin about her experiences of performing under pressure. Meg is also a broadcaster for BBC Radio Stoke, Head of Sport at Thistley Hough Academy in Stoke-on-Trent, a football coach, a Visiting Lecturer at Staffordshire University and a parent. This makes for interesting comparisons in performing under pressure in her various roles. Meg grew up in a busy household with five siblings and shares how this has shaped her views of performing under pressure. Despite not having any formal training in performing in demanding circumstances, she offers the useful distinction between enjoying pressure and valuing it. She also offers some interesting reflections on reacting to mistakes and how to influence those around her who need to perform under pressure. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices During this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Jack Bullock interview Port Vale Women's captain Meg Baldwin about her experiences of performing under pressure. Meg is also a broadcaster for BBC Radio Stoke, Head of Sport at Thistley Hough Academy in Stoke-on-Trent, a football coach, a Visiting Lecturer at Staffordshire University and a parent. This makes for interesting comparisons in performing under pressure in her various roles.

Meg grew up in a busy household with five siblings and shares how this has shaped her views of performing under pressure. Despite not having any formal training in performing in demanding circumstances, she offers the useful distinction between enjoying pressure and valuing it. She also offers some interesting reflections on reacting to mistakes and how to influence those around her who need to perform under pressure.

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]]> 1918 no EP3: Matt Jarvis (Former England, Wolves, & West Ham winger) Matt Jarvis made over 400 appearances in his football career and represented clubs including Gillingham, Wolves, West Ham and Norwich. He was selected to play for England in 2012, making his debut at Wembley against Ghana. Matt offers his insights on the pressures to perform well in football, such as whether it is possible to enjoy pressure. He describes the strategies he used to perform to a high level during his career, such as imagery. We discuss whether psychological preparation changes when called up to make your England debut. This episode was recorded externally via Microsoft Teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 15 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0000 Matt Jarvis full 1 3 Dr Paul Mansell Ex-Wolves, West Ham and England footballer discusses his thoughts on performing under pressure in his career. Matt Jarvis made over 400 appearances in his football career and represented clubs including Gillingham, Wolves, West Ham and Norwich. He was selected to play for England in 2012, making his debut at Wembley against Ghana. Matt offers his insights on the pressures to perform well in football, such as whether it is possible to enjoy pressure. He describes the strategies he used to perform to a high level during his career, such as imagery. We discuss whether psychological preparation changes when called up to make your England debut. This episode was recorded externally via Microsoft Teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Matt Jarvis made over 400 appearances in his football career and represented clubs including Gillingham, Wolves, West Ham and Norwich. He was selected to play for England in 2012, making his debut at Wembley against Ghana.

Matt offers his insights on the pressures to perform well in football, such as whether it is possible to enjoy pressure. He describes the strategies he used to perform to a high level during his career, such as imagery. We discuss whether psychological preparation changes when called up to make your England debut.

This episode was recorded externally via Microsoft Teams.

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]]> 3053 no EP2: Dr Jamie Barker (Sport Psychologist) In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater welcome Dr Jamie Barker into the studio. Formerly of Staffordshire University, Jamie shares reflections from his applied work as a sport psychologist and his role as a Reader in Applied Sport and Performance Psychology at Loughborough University. Jamie has worked with a range of organisations ranging from elite para football to Sony. Of interest for aspiring sport psychologists, current practitioners and those working with individuals from any walk of life, Jamie provides insight on his use of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy and Personal Disclosure Mutual Sharing as strategies to enhance performance under pressure. He shares the pros and cons of his current role and offers some interesting advice to his younger self! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 08 Feb 2024 12:58:00 -0000 Dr Jamie Barker full 1 2 Dr Paul Mansell Sport Psychologist and Lecturer Dr Jamie Barker shares his thoughts on performing under pressure. In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater welcome Dr Jamie Barker into the studio. Formerly of Staffordshire University, Jamie shares reflections from his applied work as a sport psychologist and his role as a Reader in Applied Sport and Performance Psychology at Loughborough University. Jamie has worked with a range of organisations ranging from elite para football to Sony. Of interest for aspiring sport psychologists, current practitioners and those working with individuals from any walk of life, Jamie provides insight on his use of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy and Personal Disclosure Mutual Sharing as strategies to enhance performance under pressure. He shares the pros and cons of his current role and offers some interesting advice to his younger self! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In this episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Professor Matt Slater welcome Dr Jamie Barker into the studio. Formerly of Staffordshire University, Jamie shares reflections from his applied work as a sport psychologist and his role as a Reader in Applied Sport and Performance Psychology at Loughborough University. Jamie has worked with a range of organisations ranging from elite para football to Sony.

Of interest for aspiring sport psychologists, current practitioners and those working with individuals from any walk of life, Jamie provides insight on his use of Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy and Personal Disclosure Mutual Sharing as strategies to enhance performance under pressure. He shares the pros and cons of his current role and offers some interesting advice to his younger self!

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]]> 3283 no EP1: Matt Smith (TNT Sport presenter) In our first episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon sit down with experienced TV presenter Matt Smith to discuss his perceptions of pressure and how he is able to perform well under the demands of live broadcasting. Beginning his career in news reporting, Matt has worked for ITV Sport and BT/TNT Sport as well as lecturing undergraduate journalists at Staffordshire University. Matt discusses his feelings towards pressure and whether these have changed during his career. He shares some useful tips for performing under the gaze of watching millions when presenting coverage of live football matches, and offers his thoughts on the differences and similarities between performing well in various contexts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Thu, 01 Feb 2024 11:02:00 -0000 Matt Smith full 1 1 Dr Paul Mansell TNT Sport presenter Matt Smith provides his insights on performing under pressure In our first episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon sit down with experienced TV presenter Matt Smith to discuss his perceptions of pressure and how he is able to perform well under the demands of live broadcasting. Beginning his career in news reporting, Matt has worked for ITV Sport and BT/TNT Sport as well as lecturing undergraduate journalists at Staffordshire University. Matt discusses his feelings towards pressure and whether these have changed during his career. He shares some useful tips for performing under the gaze of watching millions when presenting coverage of live football matches, and offers his thoughts on the differences and similarities between performing well in various contexts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices In our first episode, Dr Paul Mansell and Dr Joe Dixon sit down with experienced TV presenter Matt Smith to discuss his perceptions of pressure and how he is able to perform well under the demands of live broadcasting. Beginning his career in news reporting, Matt has worked for ITV Sport and BT/TNT Sport as well as lecturing undergraduate journalists at Staffordshire University.

Matt discusses his feelings towards pressure and whether these have changed during his career. He shares some useful tips for performing under the gaze of watching millions when presenting coverage of live football matches, and offers his thoughts on the differences and similarities between performing well in various contexts.

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