Speaking to Stacy: Practical Advice for Action Driven Living: Recent Episodes
Stacy Liddell
Stacy Liddell is a qualified personal trainer and an avid sports fan. He is passionate about helping people overcome their challenges in life. Stacy invites his guests to talk about the adversities they have faced and how they managed to navigate through them. The goal of this podcast is to discover and share practical advice that you can use to help you overcome the difficulties you face.
Welcome back to another episode of Speaking to Stacy, the podcast where I share practical advice for an action-driven lifestyle. In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with David Lindsay, a former rugby league player turned personal trainer and keynote speaker, about his unique life experience and the lessons he learned in sports.
David's diverse sporting journey includes playing rugby league, stepping inside the boxing ring and the cage for fights, and even dabbling in arm wrestling. He's a true example of someone who has pushed their limits and achieved success through hard work, discipline, and resilience.
One of the key takeaways from our conversation is that hard work often outdoes talent. David explains why this is true based on his own experience as an athlete and personal trainer. He shares that while talent is a great starting point, it's the hard work you put in that truly sets you apart.
Another important topic we discuss is the power of ritual and organizational culture in sports, business, and family life. David provides practical tips on how to implement these concepts and explains how they can help you achieve your goals and build a strong foundation for success.
We also dive into the issue of burnout, which is a common challenge for anyone striving for high-performance. David shares his insights on how to avoid physical and mental exhaustion and maintain a healthy balance in life.
Finally, David talks about self-sabotage and slipping back into bad habits. He shares valuable advice on how to recognize and overcome negative patterns of behavior.
This episode is packed with actionable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to improve their performance in sports, business, or life in general. If you enjoyed our conversation, please share it with one other person who might find it helpful.
Thank you for tuning in to the final episode of Speaking to Stacy!
How to contact David:
Email:
david@davidlindsay.com.au
LinkedIn:
David Lindsay
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Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Get in touch
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Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg
Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Overview:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is a form of psychotherapy that has become increasingly popular over the years for its effectiveness in treating a wide range of mental health disorders. CBT is an umbrella term used to understand a number of therapies. The two main forms are cognitive therapies - which examine how cognitions interplay with situations or triggers and emotions and lead to behaviors, and behavioral therapies - which focus on changing behavior patterns. In this conversation, we will delve deeper into CBT and how it can help with weight loss and anger management.
3 Key Benefits for the Listeners:
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How CBT can assist in weight loss.
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You will learn how effective paced breathing can be as a relaxation technique.
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You will understand the connection between your environment, thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
Please stick around until the end of the show if you want to hear why Dr Fuller thinks most people could benefit from a meditation practice.
Understanding CBT:
CBT helps individuals understand the role of their environment, thinking, and feelings. These three factors drive our behaviours and by understanding them we can get a better handle of our behaviours. By identifying negative thought patterns and behaviors, individuals can develop techniques and tools to behave better over a long period of time. CBT provides individuals with the tools they need to be independent and to change their way of life for the better.
One of the greatest benefits of CBT is its focus on lifestyle change, which is the only way to achieve a sustainable transformation. By helping individuals understand their values and set goals in alignment with those values, CBT enables them to make decisions day to day that will help them achieve their long-term goals.
Weight loss and CBT
Weight loss isn’t the hardest part. Getting people to lose weight and then keep it off is difficult. Making healthy choices is easy when individuals are at home and in control, but it becomes more challenging when they go out for dinner with friends after a stressful day, or during Thanksgiving or Christmas with family.
This is where CBT thrives. By teaching individuals how to make good decisions and behave in ways that will help them achieve their long-term goals, CBT helps them understand the role of their environment, thinking, and feelings in driving behaviors. With CBT, individuals learn to use techniques and tools to behave better over a long period of time, thus achieving sustainable weight loss.
Anger management and CBT
Anger is a common emotion that can cause problems in relationships, in the workplace, and in every aspect of life. CBT views all feelings as valid, including anger. Ryan, a CBT practitioner, believes that in CBT, there are times where individuals should embrace the feeling and other times where they should step in and change or modulate their feelings.
CBT can help individuals deal with anger by clarifying their morals, principles, and values. By ascertaining how thoughts and behaviors interplay with the anger they experience, individuals can determine whether their behaviors align with their values and morals.
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Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Ryan Botha, a retired footballer who played for many teams all over the world such as SuperSport United, Myllykosken Pallo -47 (formerly known as MyPa) and Denizlispor, is now the owner of a gym and a football coach. In this episode, he shares his thoughts on the changes in modern football, his career, and his experiences training non-athletes in the gym.
According to Ryan, modern football has undergone significant changes since his retirement. The game has become faster, more technical, and all outfield players are expected to put in a big shift. With the introduction of technology and data tracking, players can no longer hide what they are doing on the pitch, and cameras can pick up most, if not all, off-the-ball action. As a result, it's become increasingly difficult to compare players across generations because sports science and technology have advanced so much over the years.
Ryan's football career began at an early age, and he even had the opportunity to go on trial at Manchester United at just 17 years old. However, he was unable to obtain a work permit in England and subsequently signed with SuperSport United at 18. Unfortunately, his career was marred by a major knee injury while playing in Turkey, which almost forced him into early retirement at the young age of 23. This experience taught him the importance of having a plan for life after sport, and he has since transitioned to coaching both men's and women's football.
In his coaching, Ryan emphasizes the importance of hard work and discipline to young players. He believes that the South African soccer system doesn't support young players who can't cut it at the highest level and that this is a problem that needs to be addressed internally. He also believes that coaching non-athletes in the gym requires resetting expectations and emphasizing the importance of buying into his approach in order to achieve their desired results.
Overall, Ryan's experiences as a footballer, gym owner, and coach have taught him the importance of hard work, discipline, and having a plan for the future. As modern football continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how coaches and players adapt to new technologies and expectations.
Get in touch
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Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Personal trainer Jason Jeffcote is proof that life is full of unexpected twists and turns. After a promising sports career was cut short due to an accident, Jason found himself searching for a new path. It was through his work at a big chain gym that he discovered his true passion for fitness and helping others achieve their health goals.
Individualized Training Programs
One of the keys to Jason's success is his approach to individualizing training programs. He believes that each person is unique, with their own set of needs and abilities. This is especially true for one of his most inspiring clients, who lost an incredible 40kg with Jason's guidance. Through his tailored approach, Jason helped her overcome her initial struggles and achieve sustainable lifestyle changes.
The Power of Social Media and Technology
In a post-COVID-19 world, Jason believes that using social media and technology is crucial for growing your business. He emphasizes the importance of building trust and respect with clients through positive feedback loops. This not only helps clients stay motivated but also builds a loyal following that can help expand your business.
The Wisdom of Experience
As an experienced personal trainer, Jason has some valuable advice for new trainers just starting out. He stresses the importance of being in shape as a personal trainer, as it is a part of your business brand. He also advises new trainers to specialize in a niche and become known for it. And in a competitive industry, he reminds them to be industrious in order to get clients.
The Importance of Innovation
Starting a personal training career just before the COVID-19 lockdowns was a challenge that Jason had to overcome. But he was able to adapt and innovate, finding new ways to reach clients and keep them motivated. This experience taught him valuable lessons about the importance of being flexible and open to new ideas.
The Benefits of Sobriety
In addition to his professional achievements, Jason has also made some significant changes in his personal life. After a traumatic incident on a night out, Jason made the decision to reduce his alcohol intake. Over time, he was able to quit alcohol completely. This decision has had miraculous benefits for both his personal and professional life, giving him more energy, focus, and clarity.
Jason's journey from tragedy to triumph shows the transformative power of fitness and the importance of finding your passion. Through his individualized approach, innovative use of technology, and personal commitment to sobriety, he is helping people achieve their health goals and live their best lives.
Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg
Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Overview:
On Speaking to Stacy this week, I interviewed Michael Poppmeier, a former rugby player who played for Western Province and Eastern Province and captained the German national side. Michael shared valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in the sport.
Michael emphasized that developing hand-eye coordination through other sports was key to his success. This demonstrates the importance of a well-rounded approach to athleticism. However, becoming a professional rugby player requires more than just raw talent.
3 Key Takeaways:1) Even if you get a late start in sports you can achieve great things:
Michael, who started playing rugby at the age of 19, is a true testament to the power of hard work and dedication.
2) Why a great team culture matters:
Michael highlighted that having a great team culture is essential for getting everyone involved and committed. When everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal, maintaining the required level of commitment becomes much easier. Additionally, he emphasized the significance of older players guiding newcomers to the team. Such mentorship and support systems can make all the difference, especially for younger players who may not yet comprehend the compounding effect of training hard every day.
3) Have a plan for your life after sport, and plan early:
Not only was Michael focused on the present, but he also had a plan for what comes after his career. Michael stressed the importance of starting to plan early since one never knows if their career will end early due to unforeseen circumstances. This lesson applies to any field, not just sports. Having a backup plan and thinking about one’s next steps is always a good idea.
Conclusion:
All in all, Michael’s story is an inspiring one. It just goes to show that with enough hard work, dedication, and support, anything is possible. Whether you’re an athlete or not, there are valuable lessons to be learned from his experience. So keep pushing yourself, stay focused on your goals, and never give up on your dreams. Who knows, you might just surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
If you enjoyed this episode I recommend you listen to the conversations I had with several other rugby players. Two that come to mind are Nic Groom and Kyle Brown.
Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg
Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Overview:
The transition from being an elite athlete to a regular life can be tough for young people. Moving from intense training and structured routines to a more relaxed lifestyle can overwhelm them. But Lauren Ammon, founder of Performance Reimagined, is making a difference. In this episode of Speaking to Stacy, we explore Lauren’s background and approach to helping athletes deal with overthinking, pressure, and anxiety during this transition.
My Guest: Lauren Ammon, Founder of Performance Reimagined
Lauren Ammon is a former D1 swimmer. She faced challenges after her athletic career ended and struggled to adjust to life without sports’ structure and routine. Her experiences inspired her to start Performance Reimagined, which helps young athletes make a smooth transition from sports to life.
Lauren and I also discussed the growing concern of mental health issues in sports and the benefits of meditation for athletes. Athletes often face pressure to perform, which can lead to anxiety and depression. Lauren believes that meditation can improve performance and reduce mental health issues by giving athletes a calm and focused mindset.
3 Key Takeaways:
- Performance Reimagined is helping athletes transition smoothly from sports to life.
- Developing self-awareness, improved communication, and a positive mindset can help athletes manage overthinking, pressure, and anxiety.
- Meditation can improve performance and reduce mental health issues by promoting a calm and focused mindset.
In conclusion, Performance Reimagined is making a real impact on athletes’ lives. By supporting their transition, promoting a positive mindset, and providing tools to manage overthinking, pressure, and anxiety, Lauren Ammon is helping athletes reach their full potential. If you’re an athlete looking to transition or improve your mental game, check out Performance Reimagined.
If you enjoyed this episode, consider listening to my conversation with Natalie du Toit. We talk about life after sports and the challenges she faced after losing a leg in a scooter accident at age 17.
Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg
Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
**Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com**
Welcome to another episode of Speaking to Stacy, where I ask my guests to share their stories and experiences. Today my guest and I tackle important health and wellness topics to help you live your best life. This week, I had the pleasure of talking to Jade Spencer, a diet and fitness enthusiast who is currently studying nutrition through Precision Nutrition (at the time of recording). In our conversation, Jade shares some practical tips for maintaining a sustainable diet and offers valuable insights on how to achieve balance in your approach to dieting.
If you're someone who is passionate about health, exercise, and nutrition, this episode is sure to resonate with you. Be sure to take the time to read our medical disclaimer (CLICK HERE) before listening to the show.
Some key takeaways from the episode include:
- Maintaining a moderate calorie deficit to lose weight
- The importance of consistency in sustainable dieting
- Why protein is crucial during a weight loss phase
Additionally, you can also follow Jade Spencer on Instagram (@jozi.fit.foodie) for more great tips and insights on health and wellness. With her knowledge and experience in the field, she is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their relationship with food.
Remember, always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or exercise routine. With the right guidance and approach, you can take control of your health and achieve your goals. Listen to our latest episode of Speaking to Stacy with Jade Spencer and start your journey to a healthier, happier you.
If you enjoyed this episode, don't miss our past episodes with the personal trainer Jade Simon: Episode 2 and Episode 6.
Resources mentioned in the Podcast:
Precision Nutrition's Weight Loss Calculator
2 Day Calorie Deprivation Study: Effects on Brain Function, Physical Activity, Sleep, and Blood Sugar Levels
How does estrogen affect osteoporosis?
Effects of Resistance Exercise on Bone Health
Don't think of pink elephants!
CNN Article of Mark Haub's Snack Diet
Video Recommendation:
Mark Haub's Snack Food Diet
Book Recommendation (affiliate link):
The Science of Self-Control
**Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com**
Welcome to another episode of Speaking to Stacy. This week, I had the opportunity to learn from someone outside of my wheelhouse. Billy Richards, an endurance athlete with 600+ events under his belt, shared unique insights into his journey as a hardman and what it takes to make it across the finish line of a 100-mile race. Despite a chronic hip injury, Billy shows no signs of stopping.
Before diving into the meat of the discussion, we talked about Billy's military experience and his career as a personal trainer. His experience as an endurance athlete spills over into his everyday life and it was truly inspiring to hear about his journey.
The most amazing thing for me was realizing that our bodies can take a huge beating before actually folding. Billy's gruelling experiences in these ultra-distance events, his military experience and his skillset as a personal trainer make him the perfect person to learn from when he talks about overcoming difficulties.
In this conversation, we covered a lot of ground, from how Billy got started in endurance sports to the strategies he uses to push through the toughest moments of a race. He also discussed the impact that his endurance pursuits have had on his personal and professional life.
Key Takeaways for the listeners:
- Finding out that your self-imposed limits are false. You can push yourself harder than you think is possible.
- Doing something difficult will change you for the better.
- Why mindset matters more than anything else when it comes to difficult situations.
If you enjoyed this week’s episode, I urge you to listen to the episode I did with former Olympic Swimmer, Natalie du Toit.
Billy's Instagram: @Billytheultrabeast
In conclusion, Billy's story is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the ability to push beyond what we think is possible. It was an honour to have him on the show, and I hope that you, the listeners, can take something away from his story and apply it to your own life.
**Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com**
In this episode of Speaking to Stacy, I talk with professional rugby player Timothy Swiel about his journey in the sport, the impact of a good coach or mentor, and how losing a parent can change one’s life. We also discuss the importance of tapping into one’s creative side.
My Guest:
Timothy Swiel has had a successful career in professional rugby, playing for teams such as Harlequins and the Stormers. However, he has also had to manage a number of injuries along the way. In this conversation with Tim, he shares how his experiences over the past two years have changed his perspective and approach to life.
Key Takeaways:
One of the key takeaways from the episode is the importance of a good coach or mentor. Tim talks about how working with a mentor has helped him to speed up his development and change the way he thinks about life. He emphasizes the value of having someone who can provide guidance and support as you work towards your goals.
The topic of loss also comes up in the conversation, as Tim discusses the impact of losing a parent. He shares how this experience has changed his outlook on life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with our loved ones.
Finally, Tim and I talk about the importance of tapping into one’s creative side. Tim shares how he has found new outlets for creativity in his personal life and encourages others to do the same.
Conclusion:
Overall, this episode of Speaking to Stacy offers valuable insights on a range of topics that will resonate with many listeners. Whether you’re interested in sports, personal development, or just looking for some inspiration, this conversation is worth a listen.
If you enjoyed this week’s episode I urge you to listen to the episodes I did with Martin Muller and Nick Köster.
For more information about Reap the Sow please visit Tim’s website:
https://reapthesow.com/
Podcast mentioned:
PowerfulJRE – What Michael Pollan Learned from Quitting Caffeine for 3 months
JRE Clips! – How REGENERATIVE Farming CAN BE Scalable | Will Harris on JRE
Lex Friedman – Jordan Peterson’s advice for young people: Make your bed
**Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com**
Welcome to another episode of Speaking to Stacy. This week’s episode was something new and different for the podcast. My guest this week is not a sportsperson. I stepped outside my comfort zone to bring you valuable insights about moving abroad.
My Guest:
Emily Boland holds a Masters in Social Work and is the Director of Clinical Operations at the Truman Group. She has lived abroad in many countries and this has allowed her to experience life as an expat first-hand. She works as a clinician providing teletherapy to expats living in remote areas all over the world where clinical support is difficult to come by.
In this conversation, Emily and I discuss the cultural adjustment cycle. We talk about the rough framework of this cycle and the grief and trauma associated with moving abroad. Emily shared her experiences as an expat, and why different people experience different levels of stress and anxiety when adjusting to their new environment. If you want to understand why you shouldn’t kick jelly tots barefoot in the cold, stick around until the end of the show.
Emily’s experiences as an expat and clinician make her the perfect guest to learn about how to cope with this life-changing decision. She has assisted many expats struggling to adjust to their new homes. I trust you can learn something useful if you are planning a move abroad. You may also have friends and family abroad who need some help to adjust to their new home country.
Key Takeaways for the listeners:
1) why there is no such thing as an abnormal experience when moving abroad,
2) moving abroad is a great exercise in resiliency,
3) how to prepare mentally before you move abroad.
If you enjoyed this week’s episode I urge you to listen to the episode I did with Jade Simon where we discussed our experiences of moving abroad in a little more detail.
For more information about the Truman Group please visit their website:
https:/www.trumangroup.com/
**Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com**
Welcome to another episode of Speaking to Stacy. I have always loved getting to know people and speaking about their life experiences. In this episode of the podcast, my guest shared some unique insights into his journey as a professional rugby player and his adventure across the Atlantic Ocean. He has learned how to leverage the lessons he learned from sports into the other areas of his life.
My Guest:
Martin Muller is a retired professional rugby player who has played for the Stormers, the Cheetahs, and the Lions. Martin now plays rugby for Valley RFC in Hong Kong and has successfully transitioned into corporate life.
In this conversation, Martin and I discuss how he got his start in professional rugby. I found it interesting that he was not intentional about becoming a professional athlete. We also discussed what he described as the most arduous physical challenge he has endured, the Talisker Atlantic Rowing Challenge. If you want to hear how his experience as a sportsperson prepared him for that grueling adventure, please listen through to the end of this week’s episode.
Martin’s experiences, as a professional rugby player and his recent experience rowing the Atlantic, make him part of a small cohort of people that can share some unique insights with the listeners.
Key Takeaways for the listeners:
1) why it’s really stressful to be a professional sportsperson,
2) how to prepare for long-distance rowing,
3) how to implement the power of marginal gains in sports and in business.
Reflecting on how to leverage the lessons you learn in life:
I think it's important to reflect on the experiences we have had in our lives and to try and search for lessons that can be learned. Very often the lessons we learn in one sphere of our lives cross over into other domains. Sometimes it is obvious how a lesson learned on the sports field may apply to your corporate life and other times the lesson is implicit.
For more information about ChildFund Rugby please visit their website:
https://www.childfundrugby.org/
Podcast mentioned:
Stu Morton - Rowing the Atlantic Solo
Book mentioned:
Atomic Habits - James Clear If you enjoyed this week’s episode I urge you to listen to the episodes I did with Kyle Brown, Nic Groom, and Nick Köster.
**Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com**
Welcome to another episode of Speaking to Stacy. This was a fascinating episode for me. Getting a look behind the veil of professional sports from an assistant coach's perspective was intriguing. My guest shares how to be successful in professional sports.
My Guest:
CJ De Wet holds a master's degree in Strength and Conditioning from Springfield College. He was both the Technical Analyst and Assistant Coach at the now-defunct Austin Gilgronis (they were founded as the Austin Elite) and is also on the Board of Directors at the Austin Huns Rugby Club.
In this conversation, CJ and I discuss his journey in sports and what he is doing now. If you stay tuned in until the end my guest shares his 3 best tips for success in pro sports. He has hands-on experience helping players transition from amateur sports into pro sports. This is not an easy jump to make physically or mentally for many players. The pressures and demands of the professional game are far removed from the world of amateur sports.
Key Takeaways for the listeners:
Having spent time playing rugby from a young age, and being involved in the game from the coaching side makes CJ uniquely positioned to share his insights into what it takes to develop into a successful sportsperson. Below are the three key takeaways that I think will benefit prospective and current athletes.
1) You need to understand the harsh realities of professional sports,
2) Why buy-in from players is so important and how it is achieved,
3) What happens when your passion or hobby becomes your job?
I hope you find that our conversation provides you with some fresh perspectives that add value to your life regardless of your profession or calling.
If you liked this episode I suggest you also listen to the chats I had with former professional rugby players Nic Köster, Nic Groom and Kyle Brown.
**Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com**
Welcome to another episode of Speaking to Stacy. This was a very meaningful episode for me. I really enjoyed this interview. It gave me a chance to connect with an old friend and pick his brain. He shared his insights on how to be a better leader.
My Guest:
Nick Köster (@nickkoster28 on Instagram) is a retired professional rugby player who has played for numerous club sides including the Stormers, Bath, and Bristol. He is also a father of two young girls and a husband to a beautiful wife.
In this conversation, Nick and I discuss his journey in sports. Additionally, we discussed what he learned from sports. He then explains how it applies to the realm of business. If you are interested in what it takes to build credibility as a leader, then this is the episode for you.
Nick’s rugby career was plagued by a knee injury. In fact, it cut his career short. He also had the opportunity to learn a skillset from some amazing coaches. Some big names include Steve Borthwick, Jake White, and Andy Robinson. He also had and continues to have hands-on experience as a leader both on and off the field. Nick works as a service delivery director and his passion is to help organizations improve their performance.
Key Takeaways for the listeners:
This combination of experiences makes him the perfect person to learn from when it comes to:
1) increasing performance in any industry,
2) understanding how to make an impact as a leader,
3) explaining why you need to be intentional about the way you frame your reality.
I hope you find that our conversation provides you with some fresh perspectives that add value to your life regardless of your profession or calling.
How to build credibility as a leader:
Nick and I identified attention to detail, clarity, transparency, inclusion, and accountability as necessary attributes for successful leaders.
What other qualities do good leaders possess?
If you liked this episode I suggest you also listen to the chats I had with former professional rugby players Nic Groom and Kyle Brown.
**Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com**
This week's guest is Raphael Jeftha. He was an extremely successful junior athlete that had a bright future ahead of him. His love for rugby meant that his running career was cut short by injury. That also meant that his dream to go to an American college on an athletics scholarship was over.
Expect to learn:
- the importance of focused training regardless of natural talent
- that life doesn't always go according to plan and that is okay
- why rehabilitation after an injury is so crucial
- disappointment is short-term
Raph's story is so interesting to me because rather than giving up on life after he saw his hopes and goals disappear, he found other spheres to excel within. The way he has come to peace with the course his life has taken is really amazing. Gaining insight and perspective is one of the reasons why I started this show. I hope that his story gives you hope if you feel like you aren't achieving the goals you set out to achieve. Perhaps all you need is a shift in perspective to change your path.
**Get in touch
Website: https://stacyliddell.com/blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUg Email: speaking2stacy@gmail.com**
Before you read further, please be aware that Kyle and I had some connection issues at the start of the conversation. He was using his phone to make the recording and he started receiving several phone calls which caused the line to drop a few times. After switching to his laptop it ran smoothly. So please do bear with us for the first 10 minutes or so.
On this week's episode, I had the chance to sit down with a former Blitz Bokke captain, Kyle Brown. He has played over 300 games for the Springbok Sevens side. He was integral to a very successful team that amassed trophies and big wins along the way. Kyle is also the co-founder of 18 Coffee and a partner with Reboot for Life.
Kyle had an unconventional start to his rugby career and is living proof that you don't necessarily need to follow the usual path to attain success in sports or life. Hearing about the ins and outs of the game from Kyle was particularly fascinating due to his abundance of experience and I learnt so much in this conversation.
Expect to learn:
- The importance of being in the right place at the right time
- Why healthy competition is good within teams
- How high-level sevens players train
- The depth of strategy, tactics and performance metrics in professional sport
- How sevens players manage recovery and their circadian rhythm while travelling
- the difficulties of transitioning to a "regular life" after professional sport
I appreciated Kyle's honesty about the challenges he has faced since leaving his rugby career behind. I believe that this makes him a great fit for the Reboot for Life team. Please go and check out Kyle's coffee company in the link above as well as the Rebbot website if you could benefit from something like that, or know someone that could benefit from it.
Get in touch
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUgEmail: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Get in touch
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUgEmail: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Jade Simon is an Online Coach and Instructor at JEFF Fitness.
Jade has also competed as an amateur women’s Bikini Athlete and she was the inspiration for me to step on stage for the first time. In this episode, we get into our experiences on stage as amateur bodybuilders. We dig into why we chose to go down this path.
Expect to learn the importance of genetics, diet, training, performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) and how your friends can sometimes treat you a little differently when you are in prep mode.
I feel like I underestimated what it takes to prepare for a show. My biggest regret is that I was not able to take on a full-time coach due to financial constraints.
I think it’s fascinating to get an insight into the world of amateur bodybuilding. It is certainly not the glitz and glam of professional shows. I hope you enjoy learning about something new.
Please remember that nothing I say in this podcast should be construed as advice in any way. I am reflecting on my past and I do not endorse any of my behaviours for anyone else.
Resources for the listeners:
An insight into Peak WeekWatch from 25min 50 sec.Menno Henselmans - Pertinent scientific discoveries & Peak week specifics.Study showing muscle growth without training when using PEDs:
Taking steroids without working out.
Get in touch
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUgEmail: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Get in touch
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUgEmail: speaking2stacy@gmail.com
Lee-Ann Persse is a retired Olympic Rower, and a podcast host.
She only started rowing in her teens and took to the sport very naturally. She was identified as a gifted rower by her school coach early on and this gave her the belief that she could compete at the top level of the sport.
Expect to learn why so many young South African female rowers leave the continent, why she decided to walk away from the sport when she was offered a route back to the Olympics, how lonely professional sports can be and the importance of mental health in sports.
I really enjoyed this conversation because we touched on so many different aspects of professional sports. It was so interesting to learn about the experiences Lee-Ann had at the Olympics in 2012 and 2016. From the misaligned expectations the first time around to the much-improved approach in 2016. Learning to grow from your mistakes and not putting too much pressure on yourself is a lesson that many people, including myself, can learn from.
Lee-Ann explains how important the team dynamics are with rowing and this applies to other sports as well. Speaking openly as teammates about your issues is better than bottling them up. Under stress and pressure, it is important not to forget that you need to remain respectful.
One of the most intriguing points of the conversation was the topic of funding when it comes to South African sports. This is a topic that keeps coming up in my conversations with South African sportspeople.
Modern Wisdom Podcast that I referenced:
Stu Morton - Rowing the Atlantic Solo
I recommend people go and check out more of Chris’content on Modern Wisdom. His podcast is truly amazing.
Get in touch
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speaking2stacy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Speaking2Stacy
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRgs6JHBkJtTiW_YYr-AZUgEmail: speaking2stacy@gma...
Natalie du Toit OIG MBE is a former Olympic and Paralympic swimmer most well known for her achievements in the 2004 Paralympic Games and the Commonwealth Games in 2002 and 2006. In 2008 she qualified for the 2008 Beijing Olympics where she competed against able-bodied athletes. This is an incredible accomplishment given her disability.
Natalie shares her background and how she began swimming. She reflects on how the experiences you have when you are younger can inform your behaviour as you grow up. as an adult. We all experience hardship in our lives and Natalie gives great insight as to how to deal with difficult moments. In my experience, Natalie is one of the most grateful and humble guests I have had the honour of speaking to.
Expect to learn how important the people that you have around you in life are, the impact that parents can have on their children’s sports, how to overcome adversity, that we all cope with trauma differently, the power of hard work and much more...
*A few times Natalie mentioned I have children, she was mistaken. I am not yet a father.
Books mentioned:
Think and Grow Rich:
https://amzn.to/3D21rXp
Jade Simon is an Online Coach and Instructor at JEFF Fitness. She has also competed as an amateur women's Bikini Athlete and she was the inspiration for me to step on stage for the first time. Jade and I briefly discuss some of the principles we rely on to create programs for our prospective clients and we also get into our personal lives and how loss and trauma can affect your mindset, training and physical appearance. We touch on how we make the nutritional choices we do and how losing someone dear to you can affect your food choices.
Expect to get to know us a little better as we dive into a wide variety of issues, including weight gain, and the trauma involved in moving abroad. We also briefly touched on the 2D:4D ratio and the implications of this. I have included two research papers about the 2D:4D ratio below.
My key takeaways:
- Routines and habits are so important to being healthy. If you move, whether locally or abroad, try to get back into your routines as quickly as possible.
- Your social group is something you must never take for granted. Both Jade and I have experienced moving abroad and struggling to make deeper connections with people and it really weighed heavily on both of us.
- Training is a great way to help your mental state when you are going through a tough time.
- Calorie counting is a really great way to lose weight and it doesn’t mean you have to be overly restrictive if you use it as a tool to better understand what you are putting into your body.
- Your diet has to be sustainable and the best way of doing so is to make a lifestyle change.
*I noticed I did make an error when speaking about Naval Ravikant, I believe he is a multi-millionaire, not a billionaire.
*James Smith is a British personal trainer living in Australia, Jade mistakenly said he is Australian.
*I am an affiliate for any links to books or products that direct you to Amazon or other online stores and will receive compensation and I think it is my duty to disclose this with you.
Citations:
Expats and mental health:
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://archive.hshsl.umaryland.edu/bitstream/handle/10713/7693/IJHP_Jan_2018_The-Mental-Health-Status-of-Expatriate-versus-US-Domestic-Workers-A-Comparative-Study.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y
2D:4D Ratio:
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-4419-1788-1_113
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ajhb.21054?deniedAccessCustomisedMessage=&userIsAuthenticated=true
Winter Weight gain:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-16689-4
Vitamin D requirements:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5541280/
Books:
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business
Making Habits, Breaking Habits: Why We Do Things, Why We Don’t, and How to Make Any Change Stick
The 80/20 Principle: The Secret to Achieving More with Less
Podcast:
Naval Ravikant - How to Get Rich
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-TZqOsVCNM&t=27s
Nono Pongolo is a professional cricketer based in South Africa. He has an incredible story that will inspire many young, up-and-coming sportspeople.
He is living proof that success does not require the best starting hand in life. His desire, hard work and persistence paid off. It also does seem as if Nono has a knack for maximising opportunities when they present themselves to him.
When we spoke in April he was just beginning a new journey with the North West Provisional Cricket Team. I hope you enjoy the very first episode of Speaking to Stacy.
In this short episode, Stacy introduces himself and the vision he has for the podcast. Be sure to listen to the end for some exciting news about what to expect in the first few weeks of the podcast.