The Talent Equation Podcast

Reflecting on my conversation with Mike Jagacki and some of the thoughts it threw up!!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

This episode is another in my new series focussed on having conversations with people I don't 100% agree with. Mike Jagacki joins me to explore the nuances of his basketball coaching philosophy which takes a 'best of both worlds' approach' trying to integrate ecological ideas with concepts from information processing. Key Themes Discussed:Balancing Coaching Styles: the importance of finding the right mix between structured and flexible coaching approaches. We delve into how aligning coaching philosophies within the staff and incorporating various styles can lead to optimal team performance.Influence of Mentors and Philosophy Integration: The episode highlights how mentors have played a crucial role in shaping Mike's coaching beliefs and practices. We explore the significance of building a solid defensive foundation and how integrating different coaching philosophies enhances player capabilities.Player Development Methodologies: Unpacking the balance between isolated skill drills and game-like contextual training, in fostering player growth. The focus is on the necessity of blending foundational skill-building with decision-making and real-game scenarios for effective skill transfer.Dynamic and Adaptive Training: Training methods that are not only dynamic and adaptive but also encourage creativity. These methods aim to refine specific skills while ensuring they fit within a structured sports system.Building Confidence and Teamwork: We examine the role of drills in fostering confidence, teamwork, and a positive player mentality. The episode also covers how pre-practice rituals can instill core values in players.Overcoming Challenges and Instilling Core Values: From desensitizing players to fear and hesitation to the use of specific terminology for smooth transitions from individual skills to team play. I enjoyed the conversation - I hope you do too. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

So this is a bit of a high risk podcast. I’m joined for my reflective time with Flo the dog by my wife Claire to talk about what it’s like to live with me!! She doesn’t hold back!! Hope you enjoy Link to my podcast with Jamie Edwards https://www.spreaker.com/episo...Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Adrian Sapp is a basketball coach from Ontario in Canada. He runs a basketball programme called 'Eco Hoops' which states in it's mission statement..."EcoHoops, driven by a mission to transform youth basketball, places the utmost emphasis on nurturing the whole child. Central to our philosophy is the mental and emotional well-being of every young athlete, ensuring a positive, safe, and joy-filled basketball experience." I thought that I need to get Sdrian on to have a chat and explore his story. We delve into the following topics: How Steph Curry is a product of envionemntal constraints.Adrian's challenges to get parents and other coaches to embrace the appoach.How discovering the ecological approach helped him go from being critical and miserable to engaging and joyful.How learning about Growth Mindset from his child's school homework acted as the 'gateway' to an ecological worldview.Link to the Eco Hoops Website Link to the X account I hope you enjoy. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Today, I am thrilled to welcome Phil Kearney back to the podcast. Phil is a renowned figure in the field of sports science, with a particular focus on skill acquisition and talent development. He brings a wealth of experience from his work as the course director for a master’s program in applied sports coaching at the University of Limerick in Ireland. Key Takeaways:Impact of Coaches’ Beliefs: how coaches’ beliefs not only affect their coaching behaviors but also the transfer of life skills beyond the playing field. Phil underlines the necessity for coaches to critically assess their own beliefs and integrate evidence-based practices.Theoretical Understanding in Coaching: Understanding various coaching theories, such as ecological dynamics, cognitive psychology, and game-based methods, is essential for effective practice. Phil emphasizes the need for coaches to be well-versed in these theories to enhance their coaching styles.Professional judgement and decision making (PJDM) in coaching: we umpack this concept and debate it's value as a construct to support coaching practice. Hope you enjoyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative world of talent development within England Hockey by welcoming back Brett Holland and Sean Kitson, two previous podcast guests and who share their experiences and approaches to nurturing young talent in the sport of field hockey.Main Themes:The shift from a centralised system to a more flexible, decentralized approach, recognizing the individuality of athletes’ development paths.The challenges and benefits of non-linear athlete development, emphasizing the need for multiple entry points and pathways for young players.The significance of customising coaching strategies to suit individual needs and the deliberate actions taken to enhance talent development.A clear understanding of objectives across different environments, such as school clubs and junior academies.Integration of competition into training as a means to measure progress and the importance of competition in sports overall.The necessity for a collaborative effort in the talent development ecosystem, guided by a comprehensive talent system framework.I hope you enjoyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Jordan Cassidy (MSc) has worked across the globe since September 2013, from Ireland, to Hong Kong, to the UK, and now in Brisbane, Australia. He has worked all over the world in roles such as a sports scientist, athletic development coach, and physical education teacher. ​Jordan is currently conducting research in skill acquisition and coaching at Queensland University of Technology, while working as a coach and player development consultant for clubs and schools across Queensland.Jordan and I get together to discuss a blog post he wrote at his website www.skilledathleticism.com which I was keen to unpack and explore. There are some 'headscratchers' in the article for me that I was keen to understand more and see where our point of agreement was. I hope you see from this conversation that it is very possible to have different viewpoints and still have a productive conversation that moves our understanding further. I hope you enjoy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Andrea Enrich popped by to chat about his new book, '50 tipe sof rintelligent players - Vol 2' It is brillient and full of really powerful insights for players of all invasion games. There are some specific elements to field hockey and stick based sports but most of it applies more generally. We talk about 'Leading like Michael Jackson''Rutuals are not superstitions''Using Video Intelligenly' 'Visualise tragendies not commedies'I hope you enjoy the conversationBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

A proper deep reflection about a massive failure trying to be child first with a large group and it’s impact on my interactions with a neurodiverse child that I am still reflecting on and trying to come to terms with!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Graeme McDowall holds an MPhil degree in Sports Coaching Education from the University of Birmingham. He is a lecturer at the SRUC in Scotland and an associate lecturer in Sport and Exercise with the Open University. Graeme is made a welcome return to the show to explore the opportunities and challenges of using 2 touch in training. But before we get to that, we discuss his thoughts on golf coaching, how we can create better experiences by learning from the creative approaches of musicians and also some of the key insights from his new book 'The System' which explores the history of Scottish football and what it means for player development today. Subscribe to Graeme's substack here https://mcdowall.substack.com/Check out the new book 'The System: What we can learn when science and reason collide with scittish football'.Also check out Graeme's other book - 'A Constraints Led Approach to Golf Coaching'Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

This week's guest is Andrew Sheaff, a swimming coach who has embraced the concept of non linear pedagogy and the constraints led approach in to his practice. So much so that he was invited by Professor Keith Davids to collaborate on a book all about the constraints led approach in swimming. If you go onto Andrew's website you will see the following passage..."It is extremely challenging to help swimmers to develop the skills to win races...It's overwhelming to try to teach skills to every athlete, particlulalry when it seems like no on is listening...And everything that's learned seems to disappear when it's time to start training, or when it really counts in the championship races that matter...The solution isn't to get better at what you are doing...You don't need new drills, you don't need new cues, you don't need an expensive new video system...You need a different approach!" I couldn't agree more!!This is a fascinating conversation from a genuine coaching pioneer and innovator...a coaching outlier!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Dr Paul Gamble is the founder of 'Informed Practitioner in Sport' a platform dedicated to supporting talent developers with high quality information that help them to design better environments for young people to explore the limits of their potential (he's my kind of specialist!). Paul joined me to talk about his latest book 'Sports Parenting: Negotiating the challenges of the youth sports journey to help kids thrive'. 'Sports Parenting' takes a deep dive to explore how parents can best support young performers, whether they aspire to reach the highest level or simply wish to enjoy the positive social, developmental and life-long health aspects.The book aims to provide readers with the knowledge to discern the best ways to support kids to negotiate the various challenges they face in their youth sports participation. Beyond supporting the aspiring high performer, an over-arching theme is how we can help kids to stay on the path and prevent them falling through the cracks along the way.This is a great conversation that I found super inteesting. I hope you do too.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

This episode features Christian Gompert an English Teacher and soccer coach from New Hampshire who is a long standing member of the Talent Equation 'Conclave' learning community. It is recorded in my car as Christian and I were driving from one venue to the next as he was on the UK filming a documentary on the constraints led approach for a study he was conducting for his school. The episode covers: The constraints and opportunities in teaching and coaching, emphasizing the importance of achieving results for students while also fostering growth as a practitioner and learner.Traditional expectations often mask the role of social and emotional learning in the educational process.The ethical implications of different teaching methods and emphasizes the importance of a humane learning environment driven by intrinsic motivation.Alternative approaches to learning are explored, highlighting the importance of creating enjoyable and engaging environments for both the teacher and the student.We discuss strategies to motivate passive learners and the concept of incorporating student choice and voice into the classroom setting.I hope you enjoy. StuartBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

In today's competitive world, teamwork and leadership skills are essential for success in sports and life. In this episode, I speak with John O'Sullivan, co-author of "The Champion Team: Eight Timeless Lessons to Connect, Compete and Lead in Sports and Life," to explore the power of selflessness in sports and society, and how being outwardly focused can lead to greater individual and team success.One of the key factors in creating a champion team is to be selfless. It's about being outwardly focused and giving selflessly as a way to be successful, both in sport and in life. Popular culture often promotes a "get what's mine" mentality, and coaches and mentors can challenge this by teaching players to give of themselves in order to benefit the team. Individual greatness can be amplified when individuals learn to look out for their teammates first.Visualization and mindfulness are essential tools to optimize performance and prepare for high-stakes situations. By visualizing their performances before they happen and practicing mindfulness and meditation, athletes can improve their focus and concentration. Teams can also use adversity as an opportunity to grow and develop.Team habits, both positive and negative, have a significant impact on a team's success. Individuals can design their environment to discourage bad habits and encourage positive team habits, such as being focused and organized. Leadership plays a crucial role in creating a successful team environment. Leaders must lead by example and demonstrate the behaviors they wish to see in their team.A powerful concept discussed in the podcast is "petting the dragons," which refers to addressing team conflicts and issues while they're still small. This can be applied to locker rooms and teams, ensuring that minor issues don't escalate into major problems. Addressing team issues openly and honestly is essential for creating a positive and successful environment.In conclusion, mastering teamwork and developing a champion mindset is crucial for success in sports and life. By focusing on selflessness, visualization, mindfulness, and strong team habits, individuals and teams can transform their dynamic for the better. By embracing these strategies, you can elevate your teamwork skills, create a positive and successful environment, and become a true champion in sports and life.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

In this episode I chat with Andy Hailey, Director of Swimming at Brighton College, about his unique coaching philosophy and innovative training techniques. In this episode, we dive into the world of ecological dynamics, constraint-led approaches, and the benefits of implicit learning in swimming. Andy shares how his journey, from a PE teacher to an aquatics professional, has been shaped by key mentors like Rick Shuttelworth, and Andy Kirkland, who have helped him challenge traditional beliefs and techniques in swim coaching.Andy's journey has been shaped by key moments in his career, such as when Andrew Kirkland challenged him to explain how he individualises his coaching. Andy has learnt to challenge his own beliefs, and how energy systems and skillful swimming techniques can be used to help younger athletes reach their full potential. We discuss the challenge of energy-based sports and how Andy, has been an outlier in the aquatics world. We talk about the importance of intention in coaching, and how constraints can help with skillful swimming. We also look at how the LTAD model can contribute to burnout, and how governing bodies are increasingly looking to an aquatics-focused rather than swimming-focused approach.We explore the concept of a reductionist approach to getting a strong kick. Changing the focus can help keep motivation up, as well as the idea of using heart rate and time to help swimmers find their cruiseing speed and learn to listen to their heart. We also discuss a golf set, and how the constraints of stroke rate and time can help athletes maximize propulsion from each stroke.We discuss the concept of co-design in swimming and how it can be used to give swimmers more freedom and control over their training. We explore the challenge of introducing swimmers to a new culture and setting, and how this can require more individualization. We consider the benefits of structure and order for some swimmers, and how this can be balanced with the need for expression in team sports.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Wayne Goldsmith's journey began with packing boxes and evolved into a successful career in coaching and talent development. A chance encounter and someone's belief in Wayne's potential led him to pursue a career in sports science.Wayne has worked with organizations like Swimming Australia, Triathlon Australia, and the Wallabies.He conducted research on the post-host phenomenon surrounding the Olympics and the factors that influenced some countries to thrive while others struggled after hosting the games.Wayne emphasizes the importance of looking beyond our own sports for inspiration, such as the All Blacks coaching team seeking guidance from the New York Ballet.The role of parents in helping their children become the best they can be is crucial, and Wayne discusses the importance of creating a safe environment for kids to fall in love with their sport.Dyslexia and ADHD can present unique strengths and weaknesses, and Wayne shares his own experiences with these conditions.Misinterpretation and implementation of long-term athlete development (LTAD) may not always serve the best interests of children, and Wayne explores the challenges and misconceptions surrounding LTAD.The declining participation in organized competitive sports highlights the need for creating positive, safe, and engaging experiences for kids and their families.Wayne's insights and perspectives on youth sports, parenting, and LTAD provide valuable lessons for coaches, parents, and athletes alike.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Back in the UK following my trip to the US where I was speaking to an amazing community of Ice Hockey Coaches at the USA Hockey Level 5 coaches symposium. Sharing reflections of the event and the great work that the organisation does!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Mark Bennett MBE makes a welcome return to the podcast. Mark has been a very popular guest in the past and he is back by popular demand. Mark was part of the physical training team within the Royal Marine Commando training school before taking his ideas about human development into civiian life with a major focus on sport. As always, it is a fascinating conversation...in this episode we cover...- Performance Development Systems (PDS) aims to help athletes and coaches achieve their full potential by focusing on behavioral and attitudinal aspects of human development processes. - The distinction between individuals with a 'Performance' mindset from individuals with a 'leisure' mindset. - 'Performance' orientated individuals commit to being the best they can be in all aspects of their lives, including sleep, nutrition, and wellness. Leisure athletes may only commit to aspects they enjoy and when supervised. 'Leisure' orientated athletes might be committed at certain times but will not do this at all times or in all areas of their life. - Establishing clear expectations and understanding in coaching is important, particularly in defining acceptable, unacceptable, and exceptional behavior.- The baseline game helps athletes identify the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents, encouraging communication, decision-making, and ownership of their performance and development.- The rule of three in coaching helps athletes self-regulate their behavior, interactions, and focus during practice, emphasizing mindfulness and observation from the coach.- Identifying a team's "lighthouse" or reference point enables coaches and athletes to design and execute sessions that align with their desired goals and outcomes.- Committing to change and pursuing excellence through PDS can lead to growth and success in both personal and professional aspects of life.- Coaches and athletes should hold each other accountable for their actions and ensure they align with their aspirations and goals.- Reassessing goals and adjusting expectations based on reality data and individual capabilities can help prevent giving up on goals altogether.- Performance Development Systems offer extensive resources, workshops, and master classes to help coaches, athletes, and individuals achieve their goals and improve their lives.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Chris Kilmurray is a renowned coach in downhill and enduro mountain biking, with a background in sports science and coaching education having spent time working all over the world as a coach educator for the UCI. We had a wide ranging conversation that felt like we we were on a mountain bike going downhill at great speed!! We had a healthy discussion / debate about the realative applications and limits of the ideas that are proposed by ecological psychology and cognitive psychology in his coaching. These are the key points from our discussion...- Downhill mountain biking is a gravity-fed sport, similar to downhill skiing, where potential energy is converted to kinetic energy.- Chris's coaching philosophy involves 'not breaking the raw material', helping athletes 'amplify' themselves, and balancing professionalism with the extreme sports culture..- Coaching philosophies and curriculum development should focus on putting the athlete first, considering their unique needs and sporting environment.- Traditional coaching education tends to focus on idealised parameters and standardised approaches, which may not always be effective for individual athletes.- The historical and cultural influences on coaching and education are slowly shifting away from traditional hierarchical teaching methods, but cultural inertia and path dependency still impact how sports and languages are taught.- The benefits of ambiguity and system dynamics in coaching can be explored through various perspectives, such as ecological psychology, cognitive psychology, and complexity theory.- A holistic approach to coaching involves adapting methods to suit individual athletes and situations, as well as balancing performance-driven goals with the overall well-being of the individual.- Long-term relationships between coach and athlete are valuable, and coaches should be open-minded to different approaches and engage with original research to develop a well-rounded coaching philosophy.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.

Joe Baker makes a welcome return to the podcast to talk about his latest book 'The Tyranny of Talent'. We had a great conversation and covered a LOT of ground including...1. Talent in sports is a far more complex concept than most people assume, and the traditional understanding of talent as a fixed, simple, and unidimensional capacity is flawed.2. Coaches often lack training in talent evaluation and prediction, making it difficult for them to accurately identify and develop potential in young athletes.3. Long-term athlete development (LTAD) models can be useful but have limitations, and should be considered as a starting point rather than an end goal.4. A more nuanced approach to athlete development is needed, taking into account various domains such as child development, behavioral, neurological, and physical needs.5. Predicting talent in professional sports drafts is challenging, and early selections can have a significant impact on an athlete's long-term development.6. Survivorship bias can lead to an overemphasis on the success stories of athletes who made it through a particular development system, while neglecting the many others who did not.7. Diversity and variability in youth sports are crucial for creating inclusive, accessible opportunities for all young people, regardless of their background, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status.8. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child can provide a framework for ethical decision-making in sports coaching, policy-making, and athlete development, ensuring that children's needs and interests are prioritised.9. Addressing athlete maltreatment and promoting transparency and accountability in sports environments can help create a safer, more empowering space for young athletes.10. Challenging traditional ideas and approaches in coaching and athlete development can lead to more effective, inclusive systems that better support the long-term success and well-being of all young athletes.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-talent-equation-podcast--2186775/support.