166: George Mumford: Mindfulness Expert, Sports Psychologist, Author of “The Mindful Athlete” -

Today is a special day, as we welcome George Mumford to the Sports Motivation Podcast! By now you know that “The Mindful Athlete” is one of my favorite books, and to have George on today’s episode is a major blessing. George has taught legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant the essence of meditation. Phil Jackson says “The Bulls’ championship was saved by players who believed in Mumford’s one-mind one-breath efforts.” Tune in for our conversation about George’s beginnings, hardships, collaboration with the greats, and his expertise on Mindfulness. Be sure to listen to this episode twice! You might miss a few gems.

Episode 166 Time Stamps:

(1:20) Welcome to the Sports Motivation Podcast, George!
(3:00) George tells his story | Baptism by fire, through hardships
(10:39) Mindfulness.
(15:24) Interpret your pain; watch what happens.
(16:55) Understanding your nervous system.
(17:43) Create space between stimulus and response. | Being aware in thoughts vs. being lost in thoughts.
(20:04) Be comfortable being uncomfortable.
(22:09) The reality of anxiety
(24:10) Children see adventure before anxiety; we must develop willingness to investigate (curiosity).
(26:44) Strong self-efficacy.
(28:58) Gaining steady knowledge along your path.
(30:15) “Exposure Therapy”
(32:57) George’s daily gains through Mindfulness, learning, practicing, and teaching.
(35:28) We are all ONE… The Bible = George’s top impactful book
(38:17) Develop your own concept of a higher power.
(43:47) We are all divine in our own ways.
(45:29) “AOF”: it’s not for those who need it, it’s for those who WANT it.
(49:30) George teaches kids, but perhaps it’s the other way around… | UTOPIA
(53:26) The Johnny Appleseed approach.
(58:28) Common characteristics among the GREATEST athletes.
(1:01:42) You gotta know who you are, so you can be who you are, no matter WHERE you are.
(1:04:30) You must have a MASTERMIND group. “It takes a village!”