Michael Giakoumis is a consultant on hip and groin and lower limb muscle injuries, working at the Centre for Health and Human Performance in, London, and is also a lecturer and tutor on muscle injuries. He has recently transitioned to the role of head of medical services and lead physiotherapist to the British Athletics futures program. Michael’s previous experiences have involved working within football, Australian rules football and basketball. A rich bag of experiences across different contexts I’d say. Straight off the bat, we reflect on the lessons that are hidden in the obstacles we face. We talk about the importance of staying open to new lessons throughout one’s career. And, we reflect on the abilities needed to root in different contexts, as well as how true leaders have exactly this adaptability as a key skill.

To break the ice and to get to know Michael better, I asked him what would be his first song on the mixtape of his life. An all-time favourite … Ain’t No Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrel.

I enjoyed this interview a lot. Michael is a very balanced and thoughtful person. At least, that is how he appeared to me during our conversation. That made me question: "Am I in general empathic, considerate and able to adapt?" I must confess that I don’t think I am. I mean I wish to be, and out of that I believe to be, but honestly?! I think this falls back to a question I asked Michael on how to balance your true self against what is needed from you in that context at that time. Adaptability was key in his answer, and I have not mastered that yet. For that is one of the many mountains I have to climb. 

In the next episode, you will get to know Patrick Owen. He is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow within Deakin University’s Musculoskeletal Pain Research Group. Every time I talk with Patrick, his words keep me thinking for a few days more .. so prepare yourself.