By Dr. Michael Gervais
Dive into the minds of the world’s greatest athletes, leaders, thinkers, and doers with Dr. Michael Gervais—a high performance psychologist and world-renowned expert on the relationship between hig
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The podcast currently has 488 episodes available.
Let The Games begin! WELCOME TO... The Game Inside the Games, brought to you right from the heart of Paris.
In the premiere episode of The Game Inside The Games, five-time Olympic medalist Nastia Liukin and high-performance psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais explore the psychological challenges athletes face at the start of the Olympics.
If you had the biggest exam of your life tomorrow… would you go to a party the night before? Many viewers may not realize, but this is a critical decision many Olympians face when deciding whether or not to attend the opening ceremony.
They break down the impact of often unseen moments – like missing practice due to transportation issues or navigating the hype of the opening ceremony – on an athlete’s mindset and performance.
And they bring in a very special guest – 3-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the greatest beach volleyball players to ever do it, Kerri Walsh Jennings – to explore her unique Olympic perspective.
Enjoy Day 1 of The Game Inside The Games.
*This episode is brought to you by PwC and Microsoft. PWC elevates your AI transformation with Copilot for Microsoft 365. Learn more here.
With Fire,
The FM Team
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WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Our guest today is back for the third time – and with Ryan Holiday, each conversation seems to be better than the last.
For those who aren’t familiar, Ryan is a bestselling author, host of the Daily Stoic podcast, and a thought leader who has become a leading advocate for modern Stoicism. For years now, Ryan has been on a journey to reveal how the teachings of ancient Stoic philosophers can integrate into our modern lives.
We’re here today to discuss his latest book, "Right Thing, Right Now" – which emphasizes the virtue of justice, and challenges us all to live ethically and authentically, with purpose.
Ryan’s ability to turn ancient philosophical concepts into practical advice make his work a unique asset for leaders and high performers in any field.
In this episode, we discuss how the principles of Stoicism support compassion and empathy, the importance of open dialogue, and the balance between authenticity and audience expectations.
I can't wait for you to hear Ryan’s latest insights into living a purposeful, ethical life.
With Fire,
The FM Team
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WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Blackjack! Welcome to Volume 21 of Finding Mastery’s Ask Me Anything.
We’re back once again with our entertaining and insightful co-host – O’Neil Cespedes – and in today’s conversation, we explore topics like:
And as always, we have a lot of fun with this. You’ll hear about my regrettable diet as a college student, and what O’Neil learned in his disastrous audition for The Lion King.
These AMAs are some of our favorite episodes. Your insightful questions both challenge and inspire us… they allow us to go deeper into the core principles we talk about here… it’s awesome. Keep them coming.
With Fire,
MG and the FM Team
-----
WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Today, we have a really special episode that takes us to the heart of high-stakes performance and leadership. Our Finding Mastery team recently had the incredible privilege of embarking on a unique mission: we flew to Japan and then took a cargo plane out to the USS Ronald Reagan, a nuclear-powered Nimitz-class aircraft carrier currently patrolling the volatile waters of the South China Sea.
Imagine being one of nearly 6,000 sailors and pilots on board, operating in an environment where tensions are high, and combat could become a reality at any moment. How do you maintain a state of constant readiness and cohesion?
To address this challenge, our team – including Olympic mindset coaches Dr. Nicole Davis and Kaya Turski, UFC champion Vitor Belfort, and world-renowned climber Tommy Caldwell – conducted 12 intensive workshops. We worked with everyone from the Carrier Strike Group leadership to the pilots to the crew managing the nuclear reactors, focusing on resilience, adversity management, and high-performance mindset training.
One of the many highlights of this extraordinary experience was sitting down with Captain Daryle Cardone and Captain Patrick Corrigan – the Commanding Officer and the Commander of the Air Group (CAG) respectively. Together, they represent over 50 years of military experience and leadership at the highest level.
In our conversation, we explore their unique approaches to leadership in one of the most consequential environments imaginable. What may surprise you is that their command style isn't rooted in rigid military doctrine, but in something far more empathetic and human-centered.
We dig into how they foster resilience, handle prolonged separation from family, and create an environment where every crew member can thrive under immense pressure. Their insights on mentorship, personal growth, and maintaining sustained high performance are not just applicable to military operations, but to any high-stakes environment.
This episode offers a rare glimpse into leadership at sea and the mastery required to command a floating city of 6,000 souls. Whether you're leading a team, facing personal challenges, or simply interested in human performance, the lessons from Captain Cardone and Captain Corrigan are both profound and practical.
With Fire,
MG and the FM Team
***The views expressed herein are solely those of the persons expressing them and do not represent the views of the United States, Department of Defense, or Department of the Navy.
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WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
To check out our exclusive sponsor deals and discounts CLICK HERE
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Today, we've got a really special conversation for you.
Our guest today is a real trailblazer… A boundary breaker in the world of ballet… An incredibly special human… She went from living in motel rooms to performing on the world’s biggest stages… She is the legendary Misty Copeland.
Misty’s journey from living in motel rooms to becoming the first African American female principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre is nothing short of inspiring.
Misty started ballet at the late age of thirteen and rose to perform lead roles in iconic productions like Swan Lake and Romeo and Juliet. During her meteoric rise, she was also featured on the covers of Time, ESSENCE, and Women's Health.
Misty didn’t just enter the ballet world; she transformed it, merging classical finesse with her powerful narrative. She has not only shattered ceilings but also redefined what safety and success look like in the arts.
Misty’s influence extends well beyond dance, collaborating with artists like Taylor Swift, Camila Cabello and H.E.R, and authoring several New York Times bestsellers. Her work through the Misty Copeland Foundation continues to inspire a new generation to embrace ballet and find their voice in the arts.
In today’s episode, Misty will share insights into the pivotal experiences that shaped her, her approach to handling the pressures of her field, and how she crafts her breathtaking performances that tell stories which resonate with so many.
With Fire,
MG and the FM Team
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WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
To check out our exclusive sponsor deals and discounts CLICK HERE
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
If you’re familiar with professional hockey, you likely know the name Zdeno Chara (also known as, ‘Big Zee’). He’s the legendary 6-foot-9 defenseman, enforcer, and team captain of the Stanley Cup-winning Boston Bruins who was a dominant force in the NHL for an incredible 24-season career.
He also represented his home country of Slovakia in numerous world championships and three Olympics.
What you might not know is that humility, kindness, and leading by example are the cornerstones of his leadership philosophy. Not what you think when you consider his legendary status in the rough-and-tumble world of pro hockey.
You also may not know that since retiring from the NHL, Zee has not slowed down – he’s competed in 8+ marathons, a half iron man, and a 50K race. Not typical for someone with Zee’s monstrous 6’9” build.
That’s the thing about Zee – he’s more than meets the eye.
In our conversation we discuss how he puts his philosophy into practice:
Zee surprised me with his insight and compassion – and I think we all have something to learn from the way he organizes his inner life, and executes at the highest level. I can’t wait for you to jump in and learn as much as I did about the real Zdeno Chara.
With Fire,
MG
-----
WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
To check out our exclusive sponsor deals and discounts CLICK HERE
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What would we do without all of our modern conveniences? Things like instant access to food, water, clothing, information, and entertainment.
Science, chemistry, and technology have made our lives bigger, better, faster and - well, more convenient.
The question is… at what cost?
Returning to the podcast this week is Darin Olien, health entrepreneur, activist, podcaster, co-host of the number one Netflix docuseries Down to Earth with Zac Efron, and author of bestsellers like SuperLife and Fatal Conveniences.
Darin says the chemicals and systems that process our food, our water, what we wear -- basically everything we consume -- is killing us and destroying the planet.
That’s a big statement. And a pretty shocking one, at that. But it didn’t come out of nowhere – Darin’s been traveling the world, sounding this alarm for decades with real concern for our collective health and the planet’s future.
And if he's intense about exposing the problems, he's even more passionate about finding the solutions.
In our conversation today, we unravel how to turn that fear and concern into real action – on a personal level, and in the world. He provides easy alternatives to our modern “fatal conveniences” that can help us regain our health and maybe save the planet.
It’s a discussion that couldn’t be more timely and urgent – and I’m confident you’ll leave it with some new learnings, a fresh perspective, and important insights into healthy living.
With Fire,
MG and the FM Team
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WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
To check out our exclusive sponsor deals and discounts CLICK HERE
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What defines a true champion? Is it winning? Or… is it a way of living?
While winning games and striving to be the best are parts of it, there's so much more beneath the surface. It’s not just about the technical skills honed through relentless practice—rep after rep, day after day. Exceptional athletes are forged through a deeper, more holistic approach.
In this episode of the Finding Mastery podcast, we dive into the essence of becoming your best self with Dr. Jerry Lynch – a renowned author, guide, coach, and sport psychologist who has mentored athletes and teams across a variety of sports including basketball, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and golf.
With an impressive portfolio of 17 books (yes, 17!), including The Way of the Champion - one that I’ve handed out to more athletes and parents than any other - Jerry’s philosophy goes beyond physical training and into… you guessed it… the inner game.
He emphasizes daily spiritual and emotional development, cultivating qualities like courage, resilience, integrity, and selflessness—the true hallmarks of a champion.
Join us for an enlightening conversation filled with Jerry’s profound insights and practical tools. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for athletes, coaches, parents, and anyone aspiring to greatness. I hope you find it as inspiring and enjoyable as I did.
With Fire,
MG
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WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
To check out our exclusive sponsor deals and discounts CLICK HERE
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Happy Monday! Today we’re excited to share Volume 20 of Finding Mastery’s Ask Me Anything.
As always, we have so much fun during these AMAs – we love these conversations because we get to wrestle with the questions that matter most to you… and they inspire personal introspection in us as well. They’re incredible.
We’re back with our co-host – O’Neil Cespedes – and in today’s we explore:
Keep those questions coming in! Kindly email [email protected] to submit!
With Fire,
MG and the FM Team
-----
WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
To check out our exclusive sponsor deals and discounts CLICK HERE
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What does it mean to have power, courage and integrity?
We throw those words around a lot when talking about athletes or people we admire. Many times it’s justified – but how many truly possess these traits even when the chips are down? Today on the podcast is a human that embodies those three words fully.
Her name is Kara Goucher. You might recognize her as an Olympic runner, the third place finisher in the Boston and New York Marathons, and ranked as one of the fastest female distance runners in American history. That’s power.
And, there's something even more notable to recognize her for – in 2019 and 2023 Kara was instrumental in exposing doping and sexual abuse at the Nike Oregon Project. She put her career and reputation on the line to go up against one of the biggest corporations in the world. That’s courage. And integrity. Full stop.
Kara put it all in writing in her newest book: The Longest Race: Inside the Secret World of Abuse, Doping, and Deception on Nike's Elite Running Team. Today we celebrate her career in endurance running and dive into the pain and controversy she experienced, the aftermath, and why she is an emblem for those three words: power, courage, and integrity.
This is an emotional conversation, and we get into some pretty heavy topics -- but the light Kara represents is so much greater than the darkness she experienced. I hope you'll leave with the knowing that you too have the power to make a difference.
I’ve been looking forward to talking to Kara for a very long time, and I’m excited to share her brilliance with you.
With Fire,
MG
-----
WATCH this episode on our YouTube channel.
Connect with us on our Instagram.
Order my book, "The First Rule of Mastery" HERE!
For more information and shownotes from every episode, head to findingmastery.com.
To check out our exclusive sponsor deals and discounts CLICK HERE
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The podcast currently has 488 episodes available.
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