#44 - Philip Doyle - Juggling the NHS & Olympics: The World’s Most Extreme Schedule
Description
Olympic medalist and NHS doctor Philip Doyle joins the Abnormal podcast to share the unbelievable story of how he balanced saving lives with chasing Olympic glory.
Starting rowing in university, Philip went on to represent Ireland at two Olympic Games—while also working gruelling 114-hour hospital weeks, sneaking in rowing sessions at 2AM during night shifts. In this raw and powerful conversation, he opens up about pressure, burnout, building mental resilience, and the mindset needed to push beyond limits.
From working in emergency medicine to standing on an Olympic podium, Philip breaks down the habits, mindset, and philosophy that kept him going when most people would quit. He also shares his “four-legged stool” framework for balance, and the unusual motivation that fuels his training (hint: it involves Ben & Jerry’s).
If you're interested in high performance, elite sport, overcoming excuses, or simply want to hear one of the most inspiring stories of discipline and consistency, this episode is for you.
Timestamps
0:00 – Intro2:00 – Balancing medicine & Olympic training10:00 – Removing barriers & getting things done17:00 – When life crumbles & what to do about it34:00 – Mental toughness & the “monkey on your back”45:00 – Behind the scenes of winning an Olympic medal58:00 – Life after the Olympics & moving the goalposts1:04:00 – Advice for anyone chasing an “abnormal” goal
United States
