The BluePrint Podcast is for go-getters and high achievers who crave practical strategies to elevate their health, well-being, and performance. Host Dr. Erik Ko...
#573. CIA Veteran Reveals: Why Anxiety is a Threat Response System | The 3 Components of Stress & More with Jeff Banman
Discover how a former CIA operative's groundbreaking approach to stress could transform your life. Jeff Banman, drawing from his 30+ years in high-stress environments including the Fire Service, US Army, and CIA, shares revolutionary insights about the nervous system's role in managing stress and achieving peak performance. In this profound conversation, Jeff reveals his personal journey of transformation and introduces a powerful framework for understanding and regulating stress through three key dimensions. His approach challenges conventional wisdom about anxiety, emotions, and human behavior. Learn: Why your thoughts might not be the root cause of your stress How three hidden factors determine your stress response A former CIA operative's method for maintaining calm in chaos The surprising truth about anxiety that most experts miss Why traditional stress management techniques often fall short Check out MindofBanman Connect with Jeff on social media - LinkedIn, Instagram Join Task Force Dad - Access the Anchored Leader Course - Buy his new book HERE Use AIM7 for Free Get my weekly newsletter - Adaptation Book Erik for your next event Start AIM7 for Free Quotable moments: "Emotions were designed as a present tense point of communication or signaling." - Jeff Banman "If you're a leader, you are the nervous system of your team or your organization." - Jeff Banman "Your threat mechanism is being activated. You are anxious about something - physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually." - Jeff Banman "Prayer, breath, nature... fundamentally trusting that something greater than you has you - that's what it all boils down to." - Jeff Banman ABOUT THE BLUEPRINT PODCAST: The BluePrint Podcast is for busy professionals and Household CEOs who care deeply about their families, career, and health. Host Dr. Erik Korem distills cutting edge-science, leadership, and life skills into simple tactics optimized for your busy lifestyle and goals. Dr. Korem interviews scientists, coaches, elite athletes, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and exceptional people to discuss science and practical skills you can implement to become the most healthy, resilient, and impactful version of yourself. On a mission to equip people to pursue audacious goals, thrive in uncertainty, and live a healthy and fulfilled life, Dr. Erik Korem is a High-Performance pioneer. He introduced sports science and athlete-tracking technologies to collegiate and professional (NFL) football over a decade ago. He has worked with the National Football League, Power-5 NCAA programs, gold-medal Olympians, Nike, and the United States Department of Defense. Erik is an expert in sleep and stress resilience. He is the Founder and CEO of AIM7, the #1 pickleball health and performance app that helps pickleball players win more, recover faster, and prevent pain and injury. SUPPORT & CONNECT Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikkorem/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/ErikKorem LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-korem-phd-19991734/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erikkorem Website - https://www.erikkorem.com/ Newsletter - https://adaptation.beehiiv.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#572. The Champions Mindset: Reframing Adversity & Building a Competitive Edge with Dr. Alex Auerbach
Think being ultra-competitive means destroying your opponents? Think again. Dr. Alex Auerbach, former Senior Director of Wellness for the Toronto Raptors, reveals what Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan really focused on to become champions – and it's not what you think. Drawing from his experience with elite athletes and insights from NBA legends, Dr. Auerbach shares how pickleball players can develop an unstoppable competitive mindset without losing themselves in negativity. His approach transforms how players think about competition and resilience. Learn: Why focusing on winning actually holds most players back The surprising truth about how champions view competition What Steph Curry's mindset reveals about true competitive greatness How elite athletes turn setbacks into fuel for growth The exact timeline champions use to process losses Download AIM7 and use it for free. Get 1 on 1 mental performance coaching with Momentum Labs, tell them AIM7 sent you. Connect with Alex on X & LinkedIn Get my weekly newsletter - Adaptation Book Erik for your next event Quotable moments: "The single thing they focused on most is not dominating the other team, it's becoming the best that they can be." - Dr. Alex Auerbach "If you're focused on becoming the best version of yourself, you start to see setbacks just as a sign that there's more work to do." - Dr. Alex Auerbach "The only way it actually works to get better is to extract the learning and put it into real practice." - Dr. Alex Auerbach ABOUT THE BLUEPRINT PODCAST: The BluePrint Podcast is for busy professionals and Household CEOs who care deeply about their families, career, and health. Host Dr. Erik Korem distills cutting edge-science, leadership, and life skills into simple tactics optimized for your busy lifestyle and goals. Dr. Korem interviews scientists, coaches, elite athletes, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and exceptional people to discuss science and practical skills you can implement to become the most healthy, resilient, and impactful version of yourself. On a mission to equip people to pursue audacious goals, thrive in uncertainty, and live a healthy and fulfilled life, Dr. Erik Korem is a High-Performance pioneer. He introduced sports science and athlete-tracking technologies to collegiate and professional (NFL) football over a decade ago. He has worked with the National Football League, Power-5 NCAA programs, gold-medal Olympians, Nike, and the United States Department of Defense. Erik is an expert in sleep and stress resilience. He is the Founder and CEO of AIM7, the #1 pickleball health and performance app that helps pickleball players win more, recovery faster, and prevent pain and injury. SUPPORT & CONNECT Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikkorem/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/ErikKorem LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-korem-phd-19991734/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erikkorem Website - https://www.erikkorem.com/ Newsletter - https://adaptation.beehiiv.com/subscribe See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#571. The #1 Mistake Amateurs Make Before Going Pro with Zane Navratil
Thinking about going pro in pickleball? Three-time Major League Pickleball champion Zane Navratil pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed at the highest level. From his journey leaving a Big Four accounting career to becoming one of pickleball's top players, Zane shares an unfiltered look at the professional athlete lifestyle. In this episode, discover the daily routines, training methods, and mindset shifts required to compete professionally while learning valuable lessons about preventing burnout and maintaining long-term success. Learn: Why most aspiring pros are making a critical mistake in their journey The surprising training ratio that accelerates skill development How elite players structure their daily routine for peak performance The hidden mental challenge that derails many talented players What separates those who can compete from those who can win Use AIM7 for Free Get my weekly newsletter - Adaptation Book Erik for your next event Start AIM7 for Free Quotable moments: "You have to learn how to win. You might be able to play close with people, but being a pro means you know how to win." - Zane Navratil "If you're not constantly learning, if you're not a lifelong learner, you're not a pro pickleball player." - Zane Navratil "You get five to six times as many reps when you're drilling, as opposed to actually playing." - Zane Navratil ABOUT THE BLUEPRINT PODCAST: The BluePrint Podcast is for busy professionals and Household CEOs who care deeply about their families, career, and health. Host Dr. Erik Korem distills cutting edge-science, leadership, and life skills into simple tactics optimized for your busy lifestyle and goals. Dr. Korem interviews scientists, coaches, elite athletes, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and exceptional people to discuss science and practical skills you can implement to become the most healthy, resilient, and impactful version of yourself. On a mission to equip people to pursue audacious goals, thrive in uncertainty, and live a healthy and fulfilled life, Dr. Erik Korem is a High-Performance pioneer. He introduced sports science and athlete-tracking technologies to collegiate and professional (NFL) football over a decade ago. He has worked with the National Football League, Power-5 NCAA programs, gold-medal Olympians, Nike, and the United States Department of Defense. Erik is an expert in sleep and stress resilience. He is the Founder and CEO of AIM7, the #1 pickleball health and performance app that helps pickleball players win more, recovery faster, and prevent pain and injury. SUPPORT & CONNECT Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikkorem/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/ErikKorem LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-korem-phd-19991734/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erikkorem Website - https://www.erikkorem.com/ Newsletter - https://adaptation.beehiiv.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#570. Master the Urgency Mindset: NFL Coach Ted Rath on Leading with Balance and Purpose
What separates true professionals from talented amateurs? Former NFL captain Brian Peters reveals why predictable performance trumps occasional brilliance. Drawing from his journey from undrafted player to NFL captain, Peters challenges conventional wisdom about success in high-performance environments. In this episode, learn: How embracing critical feedback accelerates your growth Why top performers prioritize consistency over occasional excellence What professional coaches value most in their team members How to build systems that drive continuous improvement The overlooked advantage of being "boringly" consistent What's the difference between urgency and anxiety in leadership? Ted Rath, former VP of Player Performance for the Philadelphia Eagles, reveals how to maintain drive without burning out. In this enlightening conversation, Ted shares how his concept of "urgent patience" transformed his approach to leadership, from managing NFL superstars to raising three kids. Drawing from his new book "Beyond Comfort," Ted breaks down why true growth mindset goes far beyond just reading research papers. Learn: The counterintuitive way to be urgent without being aggressive Why most leaders misunderstand what drives sustained growth How to maintain humility while leading at the highest level The three relationships every leader needs for continued growth What separates high performers who sustain success from those who burn out Get Ted’s Book - Beyond Comfort: Mastering a Growth Mindset with Excellence Through Urgency Visit: https://tedrath.com/ YouTube, X, Facebook, LinkedIn Use AIM7 for Free Get my weekly newsletter - Adaptation Book Erik for your next event Start AIM7 for Free Quotable moments: "High performance is overcoming adversity, showing up and putting out your best regardless of the situation." - Ted Rath "The higher you go, the more people you have, you better be able to zoom out and see the whole situation." - Ted Rath "You need three people in your life: a mentor, a mentee, and a healthy competitor." - Ted Rath ABOUT THE BLUEPRINT PODCAST: The BluePrint Podcast is for busy professionals and Household CEOs who care deeply about their families, career, and health. Host Dr. Erik Korem distills cutting edge-science, leadership, and life skills into simple tactics optimized for your busy lifestyle and goals. Dr. Korem interviews scientists, coaches, elite athletes, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and exceptional people to discuss science and practical skills you can implement to become the most healthy, resilient, and impactful version of yourself. On a mission to equip people to pursue audacious goals, thrive in uncertainty, and live a healthy and fulfilled life, Dr. Erik Korem is a High-Performance pioneer. He introduced sports science and athlete-tracking technologies to collegiate and professional (NFL) football over a decade ago. He has worked with the National Football League, Power-5 NCAA programs, gold-medal Olympians, Nike, and the United States Department of Defense. Erik is an expert in sleep and stress resilience. He is the Founder and CEO of AIM7, the #1 pickleball health and performance app that helps pickleball players win more, recovery faster, and prevent pain and injury. SUPPORT & CONNECT Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikkorem/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/ErikKorem LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-korem-phd-19991734/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erikkorem Website - https://www.erikkorem.com/ Newsletter - https://adaptation.beehiiv.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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14:45
#569. How to Control Your Emotions: A Pro Sports Psychologist's Guide for Pickleball Players with Dr. Alex Auerbach
Frustrated with your emotional reactions on the pickleball court? Dr. Alex Auerbach, former Senior Director of Wellness for the Toronto Raptors, reveals why most players sabotage their game with poor emotional control – and how to fix it. Drawing from his work with NBA stars and elite athletes, Dr. Auerbach shares powerful strategies for managing emotions during intense matches. His practical approach helps pickleball players transform frustration into fuel for better performance. Learn: The two scientifically proven ways champions handle tough emotions Why getting mad at yourself for being angry makes things worse How elite athletes reframe pressure into performance fuel The secret to helping your partner through emotional challenges Why the best players view emotions as valuable data Download AIM7 and use it for free. Get 1 on 1 mental performance coaching with Momentum Labs, tell them AIM7 sent you. Get my weekly newsletter - Adaptation Book Erik for your next event Quotable moments: "Most people make things feel much more significant than they are in the moment." - Dr. Alex Auerbach "Nervousness and excitement have very similar physiological profiles - what you choose to call it affects your behavior." - Dr. Alex Auerbach "The single best thing we can do with difficult emotions is change the environment, even for a moment." - Dr. Alex Auerbach ABOUT THE BLUEPRINT PODCAST: The BluePrint Podcast is for busy professionals and Household CEOs who care deeply about their families, career, and health. Host Dr. Erik Korem distills cutting edge-science, leadership, and life skills into simple tactics optimized for your busy lifestyle and goals. Dr. Korem interviews scientists, coaches, elite athletes, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and exceptional people to discuss science and practical skills you can implement to become the most healthy, resilient, and impactful version of yourself. On a mission to equip people to pursue audacious goals, thrive in uncertainty, and live a healthy and fulfilled life, Dr. Erik Korem is a High-Performance pioneer. He introduced sports science and athlete-tracking technologies to collegiate and professional (NFL) football over a decade ago. He has worked with the National Football League, Power-5 NCAA programs, gold-medal Olympians, Nike, and the United States Department of Defense. Erik is an expert in sleep and stress resilience. He is the Founder and CEO of AIM7, the #1 pickleball health and performance app that helps pickleball players win more, recovery faster, and prevent pain and injury. SUPPORT & CONNECT Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikkorem/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/ErikKorem LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-korem-phd-19991734/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erikkorem Website - https://www.erikkorem.com/ Newsletter - https://adaptation.beehiiv.com/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The BluePrint Podcast is for go-getters and high achievers who crave practical strategies to elevate their health, well-being, and performance. Host Dr. Erik Korem delivers bite-sized, science-backed tactics to optimize your busy life and help you excel in all areas. Whether climbing the corporate ladder or managing a hectic household, this show equips you with the tools to thrive.
Oh, and we also talk about pickleball!
Dr. Korem interviews scientists, coaches, elite athletes, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and exceptional people to discuss actionable science and practical skills you can implement to become the most healthy, resilient, and impactful version of yourself.
Dr. Erik Korem is a high-performance pioneer on a mission to equip people to pursue audacious goals, thrive in uncertainty, and live a healthy and fulfilled life. Over a decade ago, he introduced sports science and athlete tracking technologies to collegiate and professional (NFL) football and has worked with the National Football League, Power-5 NCAA programs, gold-medal Olympians, Nike, and the United States Department of Defense.
Erik is an expert in sleep and stress resilience. He is also the Founder and CEO of AIM7, the first pickleball health and performance app designed to prevent pain and injury and elevate performance.
SUPPORT & CONNECT
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Twitter - https://twitter.com/ErikKorem
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Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/erikkorem
Website - https://www.erikkorem.com/
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QUOTES
“The key is using stress and adapting to it and improving. That’s what high performance is to me, the ability to adapt rapidly so you can achieve your potential. There are five key pillars to creating the conditions for adaptability: sleep, exercise, mental resilience, nutrition, and community/relationships.” - Dr. Erik Korem
“I maybe have a different concept on leadership. To me, leading is a verb. If you’re leading, you’re a leader. If you’re swimming you’re a swimmer, if you’re driving you’re a driver. If you’re leading you’re by definition a leader. I define leading as being looked to in a particular moment to make a decision or perform an action based on your unique gifts and abilities. So by that definition, everybody is a leader. All rank and role really describe is how many people are hoping you get it right when it’s your turn to wear the weight.” - Clint Bruce
"Attention is the currency of performance." - Dr. Peter Haberl
“That’s what I’ve discovered in the lives of brilliant, prolific, healthy creatives, is that they have networks of people they leverage in the course of their work. That they learn from, that they were challenged by, that they gave great insight and purview into their own life and work, in such a way that they were able to receive feedback that helped them get better at what they do.” - Todd Henry
"Restful and fulfilling sleep enables you to grow, adapt, and thrive. It creates the conditions for adaptation, so you can pursue audacious goals and thrive in uncertainty." - Dr. Erik Korem
"Most exercise programs fail, not because the reps and sets are poorly designed, but because the program doesn't adjust for how much stress your body can adapt to that day!. That's why Dr. Chris Morris' research and practical application of fluid periodization is the key for unlocking your performance potential." - Dr. Erik Korem