Eighty Percent Mental

Pete and Leah speak to Dr. Mitch Abrams, a leading expert with over 25 years of experience in sport psychology and anger management, as he exposes the myths, risks, and hidden benefits of this often misunderstood emotion. We discuss the difference between anger and aggression, practical strategies to detect and manage anger before it spirals, and the links between anger, violence, and masculinity.

Mitch’s new book, I’m Not Fucking Angry, dives deeper into these insights, and is a perfect guide to understanding, managing, and using anger to elevate your life.

Follow Mitch on Twitter: @MitchAbramsPsyD 

Follow Mitch on Instagram: IG: @mitchabramspsyd 

Connect with Mitch on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmitchabrams/

Check out Mitch’s Website: drmitchabrams.com

Get the Audiobook version of I’m Not Fucking Angryhere: https://open.spotify.com/show/0szKD238A01lzk4q5Ugknk?si=d918d9999ffa4bdb

In this episode Dr Pete Olusoga and Leah Washington discuss the highlights and controversies of the Winter Olympics, featuring special guest John Evans. They delve into the opening ceremony, dramatic moments in curling, and the performances of athletes like Ilia Malinin and Lindsey Vonn. The conversation explores the psychological pressures athletes face, the importance of autonomy in sports, and the camaraderie among competitors. We talk about decisions to compete while injured, the psychological aspects of athletic identity, and the cultural narratives that shape public perception of these athletes.

Check out John here: https://www.blndhealth.com/team/john-evans

In this episode of Eighty Percent Mental, host Dr Pete Olusoga talks with endurance runner and Peloton instructor Susie Chan, and psychologist Dr. Julie Johnston to find out “How to Run and Ultramarathon!” They discuss Susie's journey from a non-runner to an accomplished ultra marathoner, the mental challenges faced during extreme races, and the importance of community and self-talk in building resilience. The conversation also touches on personal growth through running, the impact of mental strategies on performance, and reflections on the significance of support networks in sports.

Follow Susie on Instagram: @susie_chan_

Find Susie on Tik-Tok: @susie.chan

Grab Susie’s book here: https://www.waterstones.com/author/susie-chan/7175268

Follow Julie on Instagram: @juliepjohnston

Find Julie on (LinkedIn): Julie Johnston

Check out Julie’s website: informedperformance.co.uk

In this episode of the Eighty Percent Mental podcast, hosts Dr Pete Olusoga and Dr Leah Washington welcome Dr Andrew Wood, a performance psychologist with extensive experience in disability sports. The conversation explores Andrew's journey into sports psychology, his work with blind football, and the psychological challenges faced by athletes with disabilities. They delve into Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and its application in performance psychology, as well as Andrew's personal experiences with long COVID and the impact it has had on his life and values. The discussion emphasizes the importance of acceptance, meaningful living, and the role of psychology in everyday life.

Follow Woody on Instagram: @dr_andrew_wood

Follow Woody on LinkedIn: Dr Andrew Wood

In this episode, Dr Pete Olusoga welcomes Dean Hammond, a seasoned coach with a military background. They discuss the evolution of gym culture, the importance of practical experience in coaching, and the mission of the Catalyst Project, which aims to transform everyday athletes into 'athletic weapons.' Dean discusses the importance of building a supportive ecosystem for athletes, integrating psychological practices into coaching, and emphasizes the need for a community-focused approach in the fitness industry, advocating for deeper personal goals over superficial ones. We explore themes of vulnerability, the evolution of training as we age, the importance of mastering the basics in health and fitness, and the profound life lessons learned through experience. Dean emphasizes the finite nature of life and the need to live with purpose, encouraging listeners to focus on what truly matters and to embrace their unique journeys.

Follow Dean on Instagram: @coach_dean_hammond

Check out the catalyst project: thecatalystproject.co.uk