• #17 Stroke of Genius: How Michael Phelps’ Mindset Turned Pressure into Gold
    Jul 14 2024

    What does it take to become the greatest Olympian of all time? How did Michael Phelps transform from a hyperactive child into a world-renowned athlete, and what can we learn from his journey? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they dive into the extraordinary life of Michael Phelps and the transformative principles that can elevate your approach to success.


    This episode offers a deep dive into the life and career of Michael Phelps, from his early influences and rigorous training to his rise as an Olympic legend. Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young examine how Phelps' visualization techniques, emotional resilience, and relentless pursuit of personal goals can inspire you to achieve your own success. They explore the impact of family, mentors, and diverse experiences on Phelps' development, providing valuable insights into how you can apply these lessons in your own life.


    In this episode of "Performers," you will:

    1. Discover the Power of Mentorship: Learn how having a dedicated mentor can provide the guidance and support needed to achieve your highest potential.

    2. Uncover the Role of Perseverance: Understand how relentless effort and determination, even in the face of adversity, can lead to exceptional achievements.

    3. Harness the Strength of Resilience: Explore how overcoming personal challenges and setbacks can build the resilience needed to excel in any endeavor.

    Listen on Spotify: Spotify

    Listen on Apple: Apple

    Watch & Listen on YouTube: YouTube

    Support the authors: Beneath the surface by Michael Phelps & Brian Cazenueze

    Friends of the show - 80% Mental Podcast: ⁠⁠https://eightypercentmental.com/


    Socials:

    X - https://twitter.com/SportPsychDunc

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

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

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


    Chapters

    00:00 The Power of Visualization: Mentally Preparing for Challenges

    10:16 Perseverance and Support: Uncovering True Potential

    15:13 Emotional Regulation: Harnessing Emotions for Performance

    20:54 Specialization and Commitment: Sacrifices for Excellence

    22:03 Trust in the Coach

    23:30 Setting Goals and Focusing

    24:10 Constraints-Based Coaching

    25:48 Preparing for Media Attention

    26:18 Qualifying for the Olympics

    28:01 Goal Setting Mindset

    29:18 Becoming a World Record Holder

    32:07 Handling Inexperience and Pressure

    33:26 Learning from Ian Thorpe

    34:55 The Power of Having a Rival

    36:22 Striving for Excellence and Leaving a Legacy

    38:03 The Role of Parental Support in Success

    39:50 Handling Pressure and Adversity

    45:07 Building a High-Performance Team


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    1 hr and 25 mins
  • #16 Vulnerability and Victory: Abby Wambach's Legacy
    Jun 30 2024

    What life-changing insights did Abby Wambach uncover on her path to becoming a soccer legend and one of the most influential figures in sports? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they dive into the extraordinary life of Abby Wambach and the transformative principles that can elevate your approach to success.


    This episode offers a deep dive into the life and career of Abby Wambach, from her early influences and rigorous training to her rise as a soccer icon. Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young examine how Wambach's embracing of her true identity, relentless practice, and resilience in the face of adversity can inspire you to achieve your own goals. They explore the impact of mentorship, the role of failure in growth, and the transition of leadership within a team, providing valuable insights into how you can apply these lessons in your own life.

    In this episode of "Performers," you will:

    1. Discover how embracing your true identity can empower you to define your path and achieve your goals.

    2. Gain insights into leveraging your competitive drive to push your limits and constantly improve.

    3. Learn to balance vulnerability with strength to become more authentic and resilient.


    Listen on Spotify: ⁠Spotify⁠

    Listen on Apple: ⁠Apple⁠

    Watch & Listen on YouTube: ⁠YouTube


    Support the author:

    ⁠Forward⁠ By Abby Wambach


    Friends of the show - 80% Mental Podcast: ⁠https://eightypercentmental.com/

    Socials:

    X - ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/SportPsychDunc⁠⁠

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

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

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

    TikTok - ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@performerspod⁠⁠


    Chapters

    00:00 Embracing Your True Identity

    05:12 Competition, Hard Work, and Validation

    15:20 The Importance of Preparation and Feedback

    18:07 Proving Yourself at Every Level

    22:33 Balancing Different Sides of Your Personality

    25:26 The Impact of Timing and Mentorship

    27:26 The Power of Challenge and Support

    30:03 Transforming Failure into Growth

    33:55 Passing the Mantle: Leadership Transition

    37:17 Coping Strategies: Adaptive vs. Maladaptive

    42:21 The Journey of Introspection

    43:58 Coming to Terms with Sporting Mortality

    47:00 Maintaining Control and Setting Goals

    50:39 Resilience, Adaptability, and Perseverance

    53:37 Gold or Bust

    55:25 Career Transition

    58:20 Record-Breaking and Team Support

    01:02:59 Tailoring Feedback and Leadership

    01:06:36 Final Words and Gratitude

    01:12:42 Avoiding Validation

    01:13:28 Ignoring Team Dynamics







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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • #15 Calm in Chaos: Lessons from 'Breathe' by Rickson Gracie
    Jun 16 2024

    What life-changing insights did Rickson Gracie uncover on his path to becoming a Jiu-Jitsu legend and one of martial arts’ most revered figures? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they dive into the extraordinary life of Rickson Gracie and the transformative principles that can elevate your approach to success.


    This episode offers a deep dive into the life and career of Rickson Gracie, from his early influences and rigorous training to his rise as a Jiu-Jitsu icon. Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young examine how Gracie's calmness under pressure, relentless practice, and holistic approach to well-being can inspire you to achieve your own goals. They explore the impact of family, mentors, and diverse experiences on Gracie's development, providing valuable insights into how you can apply these lessons in your own life.


    In this episode of "Performers," you will:

    1. Discover how Rickson Gracie's calmness under pressure can help you navigate life's toughest moments and make effective decisions.

    1. Gain insights into how relentless practice and lifelong learning were key to Rickson Gracie’s success, helping you trust your training and move intuitively.

    1. Learn how integrating physical, mental, and spiritual practices can lead to holistic well-being and peak performance, inspired by Rickson Gracie’s journey.

    Listen on Spotify: Spotify

    Listen on Apple: Apple

    Watch & Listen on YouTube: YouTube

    Support the show:

    • Breathe: A Life in Flow by Rickson Gracie & Peter Maguire

    Fight: Gracie vs King Zulu

    Socials:

    X - https://twitter.com/SportPsychDunc

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

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

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

    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@performerspod


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Jiu-Jitsu Principles

    05:09 The Gracie Family and Fighting as Ancestral Heritage

    09:43 The Importance of Mental Game and Adaptability

    17:03 Competition and the Family Champion

    25:10 The Power of Competition and Understanding Weaknesses

    27:49 Negative Experiences and Character Development

    29:29 Teaching with a Focus on Individual Needs

    31:41 Managing Fear and Enhancing Performance through Breathing

    41:10 Trusting Training and Being Present in the Moment

    49:34 The Power of Breathing and Staying Calm in Chaos

    53:03 Lessons from Winning and Losing

    59:13 Mental and Emotional Preparation

    01:00:51 Reinvention and Addressing Weaknesses

    01:05:08 Trusting Instincts and Reacting Spontaneously

    01:08:25 Transformative Power of Grief and Loss

    01:10:38 Continuous Learning and Adaptation

    01:13:22 Balancing Mind, Body, and Spirit

    01:16:19 The Importance of Emotional Vulnerability


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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • #14 Beyond the Ice: Mark Messier’s Lessons in Leadership and Resilience
    Jun 2 2024

    What leadership secrets did Mark Messier uncover on his path to becoming a hockey legend and one of sports’ most revered captains? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they dive into the extraordinary career of Mark Messier and the leadership lessons that can transform your approach to success.


    This episode offers a deep dive into the life and career of Mark Messier, from his early influences and hard work to his rise as a hockey legend. Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young examine how Messier's leadership style, resilience, and strategic thinking can inspire you to achieve your own goals. They explore the impact of family, mentors, and diverse experiences on Messier's development, providing valuable insights into how you can apply these lessons in any competitive environment.


    In this episode of "Performers," you will:

    1. Learn the importance of hard work and commitment from Mark Messier's relentless pursuit of excellence.

    2. Discover how family influence and mentorship shaped Messier's journey and how you can leverage these relationships in your own life.

    3. Gain insights into effective leadership and team culture that drive collective success, drawn from Messier's experiences with the Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers.

    Tune in to this episode of "Performers" for an inspiring exploration into Mark Messier's legacy as a hockey legend and visionary leader. Learn how his life lessons on leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking can inspire your own path to embracing challenges and exceeding your limits.


    Support the show:

    • No One Wins Alone by Mark Messier & Jimmy Roberts No One Wins Alone

    Socials:

    X - https://twitter.com/SportPsychDunc

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

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

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

    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@performerspod


    Chapters

    00:00 The Unrelenting Hard Work of a Hockey Legend

    06:19 Early Influences: Family, Mentorship, and Leadership

    13:07 The Impact of Early Specialization and Cross-Training in Sports

    30:06 The Role of Luck and Talent Identification in Professional Sports

    36:47 The Impact of Wayne Gretzky on Mark Messier's Career

    56:05 Lessons Learned from a Stanley Cup Loss

    01:05:34 The Valuable Leadership Lesson from Lee Fogelin

    01:07:55 Mental Preparation and Imagery in Sports

    01:12:24 The Trade of Wayne Gretzky

    01:37:43 Leadership Style of Mark Messier in New York

    01:39:43 Success as a Lifestyle

    01:44:06 Embracing Collective Wisdom

    01:46:25 Facing Pressure and Adversity

    01:50:04 Team Dynamics and Culture

    01:52:38 Emotions and the Journey



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    1 hr and 27 mins
  • #13 The Playbook of a Champion: Bill Walsh's Leadership Secrets Unveiled
    May 19 2024
    How did a legendary football coach turn around a struggling team and revolutionize leadership in sports? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they delve into the transformative life and career of Bill Walsh through his autobiography "The Score Takes Care of Itself." This episode offers insightful lessons from Bill Walsh's journey from modest beginnings to becoming a transformative figure in American football. Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young explore how Walsh's strategic responses to immense challenges can guide you in your own pursuits. They highlight his exceptional resilience and leadership strategies, providing strategies that you can apply to navigate pressures and barriers in any competitive environment. In this episode of "Performers," you will: 1. Learn how to set high standards and maintain performance levels, drawing inspiration from Bill Walsh's ability to lead under intense pressure. 2. Develop your mental and emotional resilience by exploring how to navigate and overcome organizational and societal barriers, with lessons taken directly from Walsh's challenges and triumphs. 3. Uncover the personal benefits of leading with integrity and a strong work ethic, and learn how these core values can profoundly influence your success and impact in any field. Tune in to this episode of "Performers" for an inspiring exploration into Bill Walsh's legacy as a pioneer who not only excelled in football but also as a visionary leader in sports. Learn how his life lessons on leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking can inspire your own path to embracing challenges and exceeding your limits. Bill Walsh’s Standard of Performance “Exhibit a ferocious and intelligently applied work ethic directed at continual improvement; demonstrate respect for each person in the organization and the work he or she does; be deeply committed to learning and teaching, which means increasing my own expertise; be fair; demonstrate character; honor the direct connection between details and improvement, and relentlessly seek the latter; show self-control, especially where it counts most—under pressure; demonstrate and prize loyalty; use positive language and have a positive attitude; take pride in my effort as an entity separate from the result of that effort; be willing to go the extra distance for the organization; deal appropriately with victory and defeat, adulation and humiliation (don’t get crazy with victory nor dysfunctional with loss); promote internal communication that is both open and substantive (especially under stress); seek poise in myself and those I lead; put the team’s welfare and priorities ahead of my own; maintain an ongoing level of concentration and focus that is abnormally high; and make sacrifice and commitment the organization’s trademark.” Listen on Spotify: https://lnkd.in/enARBN-m Listen on Apple: https://lnkd.in/ed_5P-Ss Support the show The Score Takes Care of Itself: My Philosophy of Leadership by Bill Walsh: https://amzn.to/4aorJSi Socials ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X -⁠@sportpsychdunc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @performerspod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin- Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:51 Bill Walsh's Background and Leadership Philosophy 06:21 The Importance of Setting High Standards and Resilience in Leadership 20:13 Preparation and Handling Pressure 25:26 Attention to Detail and Continuous Learning 30:57 Adaptability and Perseverance for Long-Term Success 32:40 The Power of Feedback and the Balance of Criticism and Support 34:59 Creating a Culture of Open Communication and Idea Generation 36:55 The Importance of Continuous Improvement and Guarding Against Overconfidence 42:03 Character and Sacrifice in Leadership 45:44 Role Clarity and Effective Teamwork 49:06 Believing in Others and Communicating Your Belief 55:03 Balancing Work and Personal Life
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • #12 Curveballs and Courage: How Jackie Robinson Transformed Baseball and Society
    May 5 2024

    How did a single athlete ignite a social revolution and transform a nation's favorite pastime? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they delve into the transformative life and career of Jackie Robinson through his autobiography "I never had it made." This episode offers insightful lessons from Jackie Robinson's journey from modest beginnings to becoming a transformative figure in America. Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young delve into how Robinson's strategic responses to immense challenges can guide you in your own pursuits. They highlight his exceptional resilience and the support from mentors and allies, providing strategies that you can apply to navigate pressures and barriers in any competitive environment. In this episode of "Performers," you will: 1) Learn how to effectively handle pressure in high-stakes situations, drawing inspiration from Jackie Robinson’s ability to perform under intense scrutiny. 2) Develop your mental and emotional resilience by exploring how to navigate and overcome societal barriers, with lessons taken directly from Robinson's challenges and triumphs. 3) Uncover the personal benefits of leading with integrity and courage, and learn how these core values can profoundly influence your success and impact in any field. Tune in to this episode of "Performers" for an inspiring exploration into Jackie Robinson's legacy as a pioneer who not only excelled in baseball but also as a steadfast advocate for equality and change. Learn how his life lessons courage and resilience in the face of adversity can inspire your own path to embracing challenges and exceeding your limits.

    Support the show

    I never had it made by Jackie Robinson: https://amzn.to/3wh2xz1

    Socials

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X -⁠@sportpsychdunc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @performerspod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin- Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Chapters 00:00 From Humble Beginnings to Athletic Accomplishments 15:03 Challenges and Resilience in the Racially Segregated Baseball World 40:17 Jackie Robinson's Transition: Pressure and Opportunity 52:12 The Impact of Social Support on Performance 01:09:58 Teammates Standing Up: Solidarity and Camaraderie

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • #11 No Ropes Attached: Alex Honnold’s Dance with Death and Mastering Risk
    Apr 21 2024

    What drives a man to climb towering cliffs without ropes or safety gear? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they delve into Alex Honnold’s riveting book, "Alone on the Wall," exploring the unique world of free solo climbing.


    In this episode, Dr. Simpson and Dr. Young unpack the extraordinary mindset required for free soloing. They discuss the critical roles of focus, visualization, and mindfulness in managing the intense challenges and risks associated with climbing hundreds of feet above the ground without a harness. The conversation also explores how fear and anxiety are not just obstacles but essential components that can enhance high-stakes performance when embraced and understood properly.


    In this episode of Performers, you will:

    • Learn the importance of meticulous preparation and embracing simplicity to achieve high performance.
    • Gain insights into confronting fears, staying grounded, and living authentically amidst extreme challenges.
    • Discover how trusting in your abilities, seeking solitude, and reflecting on experiences contribute to overcoming adversity and continuous self-improvement.


    Tune in to this episode of "Performers" for a fascinating exploration into the mind of Alex Honnold. Find out how his lessons on free solo climbing can inspire your own journey to confront fears, challenge your limits, and achieve greatness in any field.


    Support the show

    Alone on the Wall by Alex Honnold: https://amzn.to/4d5HcsU

    60 minutes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SR1jwwagtaQ

    Socials

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X -⁠@sportpsychdunc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @performerspod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin- Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Free Solo Climbing

    11:32 The Importance of Preparation

    32:33 Embracing Simplicity and Focusing on What Matters

    48:54 Trusting in Your Abilities and Overcoming Challenges

    57:55 Maintaining a Sense of Adventure and Boyhood

    01:05:16 Reflecting on Experiences for Growth and Learning



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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • #10 Pele: Lessons from the King of Brazil on Mastery and Soccer Dominance
    Apr 7 2024
    Have you ever wondered what shapes the mindset of a soccer legend? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they delve into the early life and upbringing of Pelé, the legendary Brazilian footballer, in this episode of "Performers." This episode explores Pelé’s profound passion for soccer, influenced heavily by his father and coach, and how resilience played a pivotal role in his development. Dr. Simpson and Dr. Young discuss the significance of luck, motivation, and the importance of play in shaping Pelé’s journey to becoming a global superstar. They also cover Pelé’s early professional years, his approach to balancing performance with ongoing development, and the crucial role of learning from mistakes and failures. The discussion highlights how cross-training, addressing weaknesses, and the psychology of sports were integral to his success, especially during the 1958 World Cup that solidified his status while also bringing immense pressures and expectations. In this episode of Performers, you will: Learn about the impact of early influences and resilience in shaping an athlete's career.Gain insights into the importance of balancing performance development and the role of psychology in sports.Discover how reflection and learning from past performances can propel an athlete to represent and inspire a nation. Tune in to this episode of "Performers" for an inspiring exploration into the mind of Pelé, and learn how his legendary journey in soccer can inspire your own path to greatness in any field. Support the show Pele: The Autobiography: https://amzn.to/3PQAH33 Socials ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X -⁠@sportpsychdunc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @performerspod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin- Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Chapters 00:00 The Joy of Playing Football 09:32 The Influence of Family and Coaches 30:09 Motivation and the Seeds of Greatness 31:09 Balancing Performance and Development 33:02 The Importance of Blending Performance and Development 36:19 Learning from Mistakes and Failures 41:39 Cross-Training and Improving Weaknesses 48:31 The Role of Psychology in Sports 55:30 The Pressure of Representing a Nation in Sports 01:01:45 The Influence of Values and Identity 01:03:35 The Impact of Overconfidence on Performance 01:06:00 The Pressure of Achieving Milestones 01:09:05 The Challenges of Transitioning Out of Sport 01:12:26 Balancing Edson and Pele 01:13:49 Top 10 Tips for Success 01:16:15 10 Things to Avoid
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    1 hr and 32 mins