In today’s episode, I talk to Mark McKeon about the parallels between creating high performance on the footy pitch; and high stake situations in a group workshop facilitation environment.

Need some inspiration and motivation? Mark provides that in this episode, along with some extremely practical tips which you can start implementing in your facilitation game.  We talk about the practicalities of workshop room setup, how to balance being in the moment with forecasting ahead to drive your workshop outcomes, maintaining energy levels and the key question he asks from client’s to determine workshop outcomes.

Listen in to him when he talks about ways you can structure your day to be more productive using his Go Zone methodology.

In this episode you’ll learn:

How Mark pivoted from professional footballer, to high performance coach and facilitation/speaking

Parallels between playing and coaching in high performing footy matches/game day and preparing for a big workshop/stage

His requirements in terms of rooms setup and audiovisual setup (including practical takeaways for keeping your voice in check over a day’s workshop)

Why it’s important to be a little selfish during the day to maintain peak performance

The key question he asks clients to clarify the outcomes of a workshop (and why this is critical)

How to structure your day to get the most sustainable performance (and how we under-estimate the importance of recovery)

Why he channelled his inner James Bond to create a memorable message

What you need to know about using gimmicks and props in your workshops

About our guest

Mark McKeon is one of Australia’s leading experts on leadership, efficiency, productivity, work life balance and team cohesion. His latest book “Go Zone” reinforces all these factors.

He spent 16 years as the high performance coach at Collingwood, with the team also outsourcing their entire fitness and training function to Mark’s team. He was also Club Runner for more than 250 games, an AFL record, and worked with Victoria’s State of Origin Team on five occasions.

Mark previously played football in the VFL with the Melbourne team, and represented Victoria in the VFA.   He presents keynotes and tailored sessions, and along with his team, conducts workshops and conference programs in lifestyle, team building and leadership. Mark consistently rates as, ‘exceedingly funny with a great message’ or ‘best conference speaker’. He spends time with delegates, and can MC or facilitate as well as present keynotes and workshops.

Mark has an insightful and engaging style and his uplifting presentations have been a conference highlight with lasting impacts for many years.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Mark McKeon’s website

Mark’s book ‘Get in the Go Zone. Making the most of me’

ABC Conversations with Richard Fidler

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Quotes of the show:

“You don’t have to be a prisoner to the structure you’ve set for your workshop…I’m forever swapping slides around and stopping,