Episode 18 - Dr. Jeff Spencer: Resilience can be Learned

03/12/2025 Episodio 18

Listen "Episode 18 - Dr. Jeff Spencer: Resilience can be Learned"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode, host Raquel Cunningham sits down with Dr. Jeff Spencer; Olympian, performance coach, and mentor behind 8 Tour de France winning teams and over 40 Olympic gold medals. Dr. Spencer shares his unique perspective on the mind-body connection, explaining the difference between a rigid "mindset" and an adaptable "champion's mind". Drawing from his own experience as a cyclist in the 1972 Munich Olympics and his work with elite athletes, he explores the biology of fear-based versus seeking-based instincts, the power of breath work, and why understanding our nervous system is essential before psychology can take hold. This conversation offers practical frameworks for anyone seeking to understand their body's responses. No one can “think their way out” of a neurological condition, but you can learn to understand your own unique biology.

https://www.drjeffspencer.com

Resources Mentioned:

Stephen Porges – Creator of Polyvagal Theory (1996); https://www.stephenporges.com

Peter Levine, PhD – Clinician and trauma expert: https://www.somaticexperiencing.com

James Oschman – Author of Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis; https://energymedicineuniversity.org/faculty/oschman.html

Emily Conrad – Dancer and movement pioneer; https://continuummovement.com/founder-emilie-conrad-bio/

Jill Miller – Author of Body by Breath; https://www.tuneupfitness.com

James Nestor – Author on the importance of breathing; https://www.mrjamesnestor.com

Disclaimer: This is for educational and informational purposes only. By listening to this podcast you agree to not use any of the information from TicFit or any guests on the podcast as a diagnosis or treatment.