The Abnormal Show

In this episode of Abnormal, I welcome back elite athlete James Kelly to discuss the evolving world of Hyrox, the potential for it to become an Olympic sport, and the intricacies of training for both Hyrox and marathons. We delve into the importance of understanding training loads, the significance of zone 2 training, and the 80-20 rule in fitness. JK shares insights on coaching beginners, the balance between motivation and accountability, and reflects on his recent experiences at the World Championships.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hyrox and Elite Training

05:53 Training Loads and Marathon Preparation

11:47 Understanding Zone Two Training

21:04 The 80-20 Rule in Training

26:52 Blueprint for Training a Beginner for Hyrox

33:35 Balancing Running and Strength Training

40:14 Understanding Motivation and Consistency

51:32 Reflections on the World Championships

58:30 Post-Competition Recovery and Future Goals

In this episode of Abnormal, I sit down with Wales and British & Irish Lions winger Alex Cuthbert, one of rugby’s most explosive and experienced players.From the high-pressure moments of Lions tours to the personal challenges of injury, criticism, and mental health, Alex opens up like never before.We explore what it takes to stay at the top, how he rebuilt confidence after hitting rock bottom, and why he still plays with passion and perspective today.This is a raw, powerful insight into the real life behind elite performance, not just for rugby fans, but for anyone chasing growth through adversity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Abnormal and Alex Cuthbert

02:36 Memories of the British and Irish Lions Tour

09:22 The Off-Field Experience of a Lions Tour

15:16 The Pressure of Selection and Being Dropped

22:40 Lessons Learned from Setbacks

25:38 Post-Lions Career and Managing Expectations

29:57 Overcoming Confidence Issues and Social Media Impact

32:03 Transforming Mindset: From Negativity to Positivity

34:01 The Role of Mental Coaching in Sports

36:51 Experiencing the Pressure of Professional Sports

40:17 Overcoming Adversity: Injuries and Comebacks

45:44 Navigating Life After Rugby: A New Chapter

47:39 Building a Media Career: Insights and Experiences

51:27 The Future of Media and Sports in Wales

55:16 Creating a Positive Media Environment

57:32 Legacy: How Do You Want to Be Remembered?

58:56 Advice for Pursuing Abnormal Paths

In this episode of Abnormal, I sit down with Swiss endurance swimmer and ocean activist Noam Yaron, who’s attempting the longest open-water swim in a wetsuit — a grueling 180km journey from Calvi to Monaco.

We dive into his 5 day non-stop swim, hallucinations, swimming while asleep, and encounters with sharks, jellyfish, and whales — all in the name of marine preservation.

Noam shares why he believes sport can spark global change, how he handles failure, and why the fight to protect the Mediterranean Sea matters to all of us.This is more than a story about endurance, it’s a lesson in resilience, purpose, and how one “normal guy” is doing something abnormally bold to change the world.

🌊 Support Noam’s mission and become a co-owner of the swim at: calvi-monaco.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Noam Yaron and His Mission

10:49 The Challenge of the 180km Swim

21:55 Innovative Techniques for Endurance Swimming

30:06 Changing the Rules of Open Water Swimming

33:30 Environmental Awareness Through Sports

36:14 Triathlon for Biodiversity

38:11 Mental Challenges in Extreme Sports

39:04 Team Dynamics in Open Water Swimming

41:21 Connection with Marine Life

45:28 Raising Awareness for Ocean Conservation

47:21 Collaborative Philanthropy for Environmental Causes

50:57 Building a Community for Change

52:19 Sustainable Practices for Ocean Health

57:25 Individual Impact vs. Corporate Responsibility

01:01:24 Finding Balance in Environmental Advocacy

01:09:36 Trusting Yourself in Unconventional Paths

In this episode of Abnormal, I interview Cherie Walker, head coach of Cirque du Soleil, who shares insights into the unique challenges and rewards of coaching elite performers. We discuss the rigorous training processes, the importance of character development, and the cultural dynamics within a diverse team of artists.

Chapters00:00 The Art of Performance Selection02:54 Training the Unseen Skills06:06 Behind the Curtain: Coaching Dynamics08:52 The Role of Trust in Performance12:02 Cultural Dynamics in a Diverse Team15:12 Building Trust and Communication18:01 Navigating Challenges with Elite Athletes20:51 Influence Beyond the Stage25:24 The Social Side of Performance29:11 Pushing Boundaries in Performance30:08 Understanding Risk in Performance Acts31:11 Stability vs. Risk in Shows32:29 The Journey of Skill Acquisition35:03 The Importance of Early Training36:22 The Collective Effort of Performance37:04 Maintaining Group Culture38:20 The Rewards of Coaching39:36 Life on the Road41:27 Longevity in Performance Careers44:40 Advice for Pursuing Abnormal Goals

FREE Goal-Setting Template: https://www.petelaverick.com/product-page/the-abnormal-discipline-code-your-no-bs-blueprint-to-crushing-goals

In this episode of Abnormal, I interview Kaat Dumarey, a performer with Cirque du Soleil, who shares her incredible journey from gymnastics to the world-renowned circus. Kaat discusses the adrenaline rush of performing, the rigorous training and discipline required in gymnastics, and the transition to life as a Cirque du Soleil artist. She reflects on the challenges of touring, the importance of critical thinking, and her aspirations for the future.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cirque du Soleil and Kaat Dumarey

06:09 The Thrill of Performance and Safety Protocols

12:55 Kaat's Journey from Gymnastics to Cirque du Soleil

19:54 Achievements and Challenges in Competitive Gymnastics

24:55 Transitioning to Cirque du Soleil: The Path Ahead

30:52 Life on the Road as a Cirque Performer

32:20 Life as a Performer: Balancing Diet and Routine

34:23 The Minimalist Lifestyle of a Circus Artist

35:57 Experiences Over Material Possessions

37:21 Navigating Life During the Pandemic

39:17 Adapting to a Chaotic Lifestyle

41:00 The Challenges of Live Performance

42:52 Training and Coaching in Cirque du Soleil

45:18 Future Aspirations and Career Longevity

47:02 Exploring New Disciplines in Circus

48:19 The Unique Challenges of Circus Acts

49:38 Training Dynamics Within the Circus

50:52 The Role of Coaching and Feedback

52:55 Choosing a Circus Discipline to Train

56:30 Experiencing Hong Kong: A Performer’s Perspective

01:00:19 Legacy and Future Aspirations

01:02:38 Advice for Pursuing Abnormal Dreams

Kaat's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaat_dumarey/

FREE Goal-Setting Template: https://www.petelaverick.com/product-page/the-abnormal-discipline-code-your-no-bs-blueprint-to-crushing-goals

In this episode of Abnormal, I interview Delphine Dultzin, co-founder and CEO of On The List, a members-only flash sales platform that addresses the issue of unsold luxury inventory. The conversation delves into consumer behaviour, the operational model of the business, and the significance of offline events in the luxury retail space. Delphine also discusses the balance between personal and professional life as an entrepreneur and offers valuable advice for aspiring business owners.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to On The List

06:36 Challenges in Securing Initial Partnerships

09:42 Understanding the Luxury Fashion Industry

13:32 Risk Management and Unsold Stock

16:29 Legislation and Environmental Impact

18:34 Membership Model and Consumer Behaviour

23:30 Revenue Model and Brand Partnerships

26:18 Adapting to Brand Needs and Market Changes

30:45 Importance of Offline Events

31:59 Navigating Online and Offline Sales in Luxury

33:16 Market Competition and Differentiation Strategies

35:51 Focus on Asia: Opportunities and Challenges

37:09 Entrepreneurial Mindset and Influences

38:50 Business Environment: Hong Kong vs. France

39:59 Taking the Leap: When to Commit to Entrepreneurship

42:18 Complementary Skills in Business Partnerships

43:20 Overcoming Challenges and Learning from Failure

47:56 Advice for Future Entrepreneurs

51:59 Balancing Business and Personal Life

55:17 Future Vision: Growth and Sustainability

Check out On The List: https://www.onthelist.com/HK/en

FREE Goal-Setting Template: https://www.petelaverick.com/product-page/the-abnormal-discipline-code-your-no-bs-blueprint-to-crushing-goals

In this episode, Dr. Aaron D'Souza discusses the concept of The Enhanced Games, an alternative to the Olympic Games that allows performance-enhancing drugs. He addresses the recent ban by World Aquatics, the motivations behind creating The Enhanced Games, and the potential future of human enhancement. Dr. D'Souza argues that the current sports system is corrupt and does not benefit athletes, and he believes that performance enhancements can lead to a new age of human capabilities. He also tackles common criticisms regarding fairness, health risks, and the impact on youth, while outlining the business model for The Enhanced Games as a platform for human enhancement products.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to The Enhanced Games

01:03 Response to World Aquatics' Ban

02:43 The Impact of Legacy Sports Organizations

06:41 Motivation Behind The Enhanced Games

10:15 The Future of Human Enhancement

16:35 Addressing Fairness in Sports

18:56 Long-term Health Effects of Performance Enhancements

25:54 Setting a Poor Example for Youth

30:58 Business Model of The Enhanced Games

35:22 Avoiding Monopolistic Practices

38:53 Advice for Aspiring Disruptors

Find out more about The Enhanced Games: https://www.enhanced.com/

In this episode, Sebastien Borget, co-founder of The Sandbox, discusses the concept of the metaverse, its importance, and how it is evolving. He explains the role of blockchain technology in creating a decentralized virtual world where users can own digital land and monetize their creations. In this conversation, we delve into the evolution of digital payments, the impact of scams on cryptocurrency adoption, and the importance of building trust in the Web3 space. We also dive into the changing landscape of entrepreneurship, especially with the rise of AI, and Seb gives his top tips for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Metaverse

02:51 Understanding The Sandbox

06:09 The Value of Digital Land

09:00 Governance and Community in the Metaverse

12:08 The Role of Decentralization

15:07 The Evolution of The Sandbox

18:07 Content Creation in the Metaverse

21:05 Web 1, Web 2, and Web 3 Explained

23:48 Trust Issues in Web 3 and Crypto

34:33 Trust in Digital Payments

37:01 The Impact of Scams on Crypto Adoption

39:24 Building Trust in Web3

41:10 The Journey of The Sandbox

44:54 Resilience in Entrepreneurship

49:18 The Importance of Personal Branding

53:59 The Evolution of Entrepreneurship

57:11 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Follow Abnormal on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/abnormalpod/

In this episode, I interview Brett Hawke, the Head Swimming Coach for the Enhanced Performance Team, discussing the revolutionary concept of the Enhanced Games. This multi-sport event allows athletes to use performance enhancing drugs legally, aiming to provide financial rewards and disrupt traditional sports models. The conversation explores the motivations behind the games, the health and safety protocols in place, the individualized programs for athletes, and the potential societal impact of this new approach to competitive sports.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Enhanced Games

03:00 The Motivation Behind the Enhanced Games

05:54 Performance Enhancements and Athlete Health

08:51 The Role of Doctors and Safety Protocols

11:50 Individualized Programs and Athlete Experiences

14:52 The Impact of Performance Enhancements on Training

18:00 Long-term Health Considerations

20:58 The Future of the Enhanced Games

24:04 Transparency and Public Perception

27:06 Influence on Society and Future Athletes

34:45 Aging and Longevity: Breaking Stereotypes

36:04 Performance Enhancing Drugs: A Controversial Discussion

39:11 The Future of Clean vs Enhanced Sports

44:38 Coaching in the Enhanced Games: A New Frontier

48:17 Vision for the Future: Pushing Human Potential

51:28 Recruitment and Growth of the Enhanced Games

53:22 Navigating the Olympic Landscape: Challenges Ahead

55:34 Personal Reflections: The Impact of Performance Enhancers

01:01:15 Facing Fears: Embracing the Abnormal

Follow Abnormal on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/abnormalpod/

Follow Brett on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hawkebr/

The Enhanced Games Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxCZPK_a10Y

Website: https://www.enhanced.com/

In this episode of Abnormal, I interview Tyrese Johnson-Fisher, a young athlete with a remarkable journey from South London to pursuing dreams in both the NFL and WWE. Tyrese shares his experiences growing up, the sacrifices he's made for his athletic career, and the mental resilience required to navigate the challenges of being an international athlete. He discusses the complexities of the NFL pathway for non-Americans and the importance of understanding one's purpose in the pursuit of dreams. In this conversation, Tyrese shares his journey from rugby to American football, discussing the intricacies of NFL contracts, the challenges of being a multi-sport athlete, and the impact of going viral on his career. He reflects on the importance of self-identity and the pursuit of dreams, emphasizing that success is possible when one believes in themselves.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tyrese Johnson-Fisher

01:08 Tyrese's Journey: From South London to Dubai

04:29 The Pursuit of Dreams: NFL and WWE Aspirations

06:56 Sacrifices and Commitment in Sports

13:34 Mental Resilience: Understanding Your Why

20:27 Navigating the NFL Pathway for Non-Americans

28:11 Challenges Faced by International Athletes

31:12 Understanding NFL Contracts and Player Valuation

39:06 The Journey from Rugby to American Football

45:20 Navigating Career Choices: NFL vs. Wrestling

51:07 Going Viral: The Impact of Social Media on Career

01:00:52 Advice for Pursuing Abnormal Dreams