The Sonya Looney Show

Have you ever struggled to push through that final mile, nail a big presentation, or remain poised under stress? Today, we’re tackling Functional Mental Toughness with Dr. Brad Cooper, whose approach to mental toughness isn’t just about enduring more; it’s about thriving, preparing, and activating in ways that enhance performance without compromising well-being. This episode isn’t just about grinding harder; it’s about crafting a balanced approach to mental toughness that enriches your life and career. Whether you aim to excel in sports, business, or daily challenges, Dr. Cooper’s guidance is vital for anyone looking to elevate their performance sustainably. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Discover your unique start line strategy that works best for you, instead of copying others. - Embrace the Functional Mental Toughness model: thrive, prepare, and activate for peak performance. - Transform negative self-talk into positive, motivational cues to enhance performance. - Use tools like HRV to avoid over-preparatio

This week we are sharing an episode of the Wise Effort Show with Dr. Diana Hill featuring Sonya! ---------- In this episode of the Wise Effort Show, Dr. Diana Hill, a clinical psychologist, discusses the challenges of perfectionism and how to practice wise effort at work with Sonya Looney, a world-champion mountain biker They explore the intersection of high performance and well-being, ways to transform perfectionism into social contribution, and the importance of support during personal and professional transitions.  Listen and Learn Ways to handle crossroads at work Interactions between perfectionism and social contribution The power of impacting just one person How to evaluate success based on how you define success Listen as Diana and Sonya share personal experiences and practical insights to help listeners loosen their grip on perfectionism and focus on meaningful contributions. About Sonya Looney I’m interested in the integration of high performance and well-being through positive psychology, contem

I want to dig deep into something that touches every one of us, whether we’re aware of it or not: purpose. Purpose encompasses goal direction, intentionality, and the pursuit of what is seen as important in life. It provides a reason to get up in the morning and persist through challenges. Purpose has layers—it’s not just one definition or feeling. It’s an evolving force that organizes our lives and fuels our growth. We'll uncover how purpose serves as more than just a motivator; it's a dynamic force that shapes our daily actions, sustains us through challenges, and enhances our connections with others.   Key Highlights: - Understanding Purpose: What is purpose and how does it differ from simple goal-setting? - The Role of Purpose in Everyday Life: Explore how having a clear sense of purpose can transform ordinary activities into meaningful actions. - Purpose and Resilience: Discover how a well-defined purpose can foster resilience, helping us navigate life's ups and downs. - Connecting with Ot

Bringing meditation into daily life is a different beast. Today’s moving meditation will be short, simple—and really hard, because we’re taking meditation on the move so you can apply mindfulness to everyday activities like workouts or a quiet hike. In today’s episode, I break down how to shift from an ego-focused to a task-focused mindset during physical activities. I’ll guide you through techniques to anchor your focus, using sounds from your environment or your own breath, to help maintain mindfulness. This practice isn’t just about sitting quietly; it’s about integrating mindfulness into every part of your day. Whether you’re pushing through a tough workout or enjoying nature, I’ll show you how to keep your mind present and engaged. Here's what you'll learn: • Real-World Mindfulness: Learn to extend your meditation practice beyond the cushion and into dynamic activities. • Catching the Wander: Focus on recognizing when your mind drifts and gently guide it back without judgment. • Anchors of F

It’s clear: mindfulness transforms athletic performance and overall well-being. But how do we use it in daily practice? Today, I’m sitting down with the incredible Dr. Sara Mitchell. We unpack the power of mindfulness in enhancing focus, managing self-talk, and steering through life’s chaos both on and off the track. Learn about the crucial roles of acceptance and mental rehearsal, and why being task-oriented can significantly impact your performance. Whether you’re pushing limits in sports or navigating daily pressures, this episode is packed with tips to help you stay present and perform at your best. Tune in to discover how to harness mindfulness for greater success and contentment in every aspect of your life.   Here’s what you’ll learn: - Maintaining present-moment awareness and breath-focused mindfulness can achieve consistent high-level performance- How to focus on task-oriented actions and using instructional self-talk rather than judgment or motivation- Why balancing the need for planning with stayin

Today, I’m taking you along a trail ride, not just through the physical landscapes but through the terrain of our minds. It’s about confronting and managing the self-criticism that often accompanies our high expectations, especially when we push towards big goals in high-performance settings. In this episode, I’ll share how I transform self-criticism into a tool for growth and resilience. Whether you’re riding a bike, running a trail, or pursuing any challenge, this meditation is designed to help you maintain focus and foster a positive mindset.   Key Takeaways: Understanding self-criticism Cultivating acceptance Strategies for boosting optimism How to embrace mental flexibility   LINKS - Listen to another moving meditation - Learn about the science of meditation with Dave Vago - Feel skeptical about meditation? Check out this interview with Jeff Warren--------------The Sonya Looney Show is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Does success have a singular path? Lauren Costantini is a former neuroscientist turned nutrition coach, whose eclectic journey from performing arts to the pinnacle of science and athletics offers so many cool insights into achieving vibrant health. Lauren’s shift to a plant-based diet enhanced her recovery from surgery and transformed her athletic performance, and gain practical advice on navigating the complex world of nutrition, from managing sugar intake to understanding the critical role of fiber. In this conversation, Lauren breaks down common myths about nutrition and shares her scientific perspective on optimizing health through diet. Whether you’re looking to elevate your physical performance or just improve your overall well-being, this episode is packed with actionable tips backed by science. Tune in to hear how we explore how informed choices in diet can lead to a more vibrant and energetic life, and learn how to harness the power of nutrition to fuel your personal and athletic ambitions.   Here&ap

I’m thrilled to be back on the airwaves after a two-month rejuvenation break! In today’s episode, I’m excited to share some personal updates including: completing my master’s in applied positive psychology, winning the downhill category at Singletrack Six, and my top-ten finish at Breck Epic. Plus, I’ll share more about my transition to part-time racing and my move toward focusing on coaching, speaking, and writing. Whether you’re chasing your own starting line or seeking a meaningful pivot in life, join me as we explore the power of authenticity and the impact of redefining success. Here's what you'll learn: - The importance of taking real breaks - Redefining success, accomplishment, and fulfillment - The power of savoring and reflecting - Challenges (and rewards) of balancing racing and parenthood - Embracing uncertainty and novelty LINKS - Turning in to Savoring - Finding Fulfillment Beyond Growth with Mario Fraioli- Mastery is a Practice, Not a Destination - The Science of Rest and Changing Ho

As we celebrate during the Olympics, I am always struck by the power of elite athletes who are also navigating motherhood. In this Quick Study, I'm highlighting conversations with three incredible women who share their raw and honest experiences transitioning into motherhood while competing at the highest levels.    Hear from Betsi Flint, a 7x AVP Champ and Olympian; Erin Huck, a mountain biker and Olympian; and Amanda Bashem, an elite ultra runner, who each redefine strength and resilience, proving that being a world-class athlete and a mom is not just possible but profoundly empowering.   Here's what you'll learn: - Physical and emotional challenges of returning to peak performance post-pregnancy - The transformative impact of motherhood on their careers - How critical it is to be surrounded by support systems    LINKS: - Balancing Motherhood and the Podium with Erin Huck - Read Work, Parent, Thrive by Yael Shonbrun - Real Stories of Challenge, Support, and Motherhood with Ultra Runner Aman

As I’ve recently raced the TransRockies, the importance of mindfulness in riding, sport, and life was vividly reminded to me. Mental well-being isn’t just a component of high performance—it’s the foundation. This episode revisits our exploration into the transformative practice of moving meditation, specifically tailored for cycling.   In this moving meditation guide, I’ll take you through exercises that help connect with various parts of your body and senses while riding. This practice is designed to enhance focus and presence, integrating the power of mindfulness into the rhythm of your pedals.   Together, we’ll explore how athletic pursuits can be profoundly deepened by meditation, uncovering techniques that foster a perfect equilibrium between mind and body. Join me on the trails as we seek to find our stride, embracing the lessons only mindfulness can teach.   Key Takeaways:   • Understanding Moving Meditation: Grasp the essentials of moving meditation, its various forms, and its importance for athletes.

Today, we’re tackling a crucial topic—finding and fostering meaningful work. It’s not just about what we do, but aligning our work with our deepest values to find joy and purpose every day. I’m thrilled to be joined by Andrew Soren, a leader dedicated to enhancing well-being in the workplace. Andrew is the Founder and CEO of Eudaimonic by Design, he's a trailblazer in creating positive workplace environments and a respected mentor in the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program at the University of Pennsylvania. We explore how to align our daily tasks with our deepest values and find real joy and purpose every single day. We discuss the challenges of balancing intense passion with necessary boundaries to prevent burnout and how workplaces can support our well-being and growth. Here's what you'll learn: - While meaningful work boosts motivation, it can also risk burnout and career dissatisfaction. - Eudaimonia—a life rich in meaning—is foundational to understanding job satisfaction - Effect

Plant-based nutrition can change our overall health - but how can it impact athlete performance? In today’s “Quick Study” episode, I'm excited to highlight two remarkable advocates for plant-based living—Olympic silver medalist Dotsie Bausch and vegan bodybuilding pioneer Robert Cheeke. Dotsie shares her transformative journey from professional cycling to Olympic glory, all while embracing a plant-based diet that she credits for her increased energy, enhanced recovery, and superior performance. We’ll explore how ditching dairy helped her overcome inflammation and why she passionately advocates for dairy-free alternatives. Robert Cheeke breaks down the myths surrounding vegan bodybuilding. He shares his personal evolution from a 120-pound runner to a robust 220-pound vegan bodybuilder, offering practical advice on gaining muscle through dedication, consistency, and a nourishing whole-food diet. Whether you’re an athlete looking for a competitive edge or someone curious about the benefits of a plant-based

Can our biggest challenges become gifts? I’m excited to reshare an incredibly enriching conversation with Shelby Stanger, author of “The Will to Wild” and the voice behind the inspiring podcast, Wild Ideas Worth Living. As I wrap up my master’s thesis and embark on new challenges, Shelby’s journey through life’s big changes, her passion for adventure, and her insights into overcoming fears resonate deeply with me—and I know they will with you too.   Shelby shares how her love for the wild has helped her navigate through pivotal life moments and health challenges. We delve into the power of facing fears, the importance of community, and why self-kindness is crucial in our journey of personal growth. Shelby’s relatable experiences and practical tools for embracing change and finding joy in new ways are not only inspiring but also a reminder of the transformative power of adventure.   Whether you’re encountering your own crossroads or simply seeking motivation to push past barriers, this conversation is a testam

Welcome to a new series called “Quick Study." Today we’re diving into how a plant-based diet can significantly boost your longevity and vitality. If you are an avid listener, you know this is one of my favorite topics. So, I was excited to reference conversations with two experts Brenda Davis and Dr. Michael Greger, as we unpack the benefits of filling your plate with plant-based proteins. You'll learn how easy meeting your daily protein needs can be with a whole food plant-based diet—your ticket to sustainable weight loss and warding off diseases. Get ready to be inspired and learn practical tips for powering your life with plants! KEY TAKEAWAYS: Replacing just 3% of calories from animal protein with plant protein can lower mortality risk by 10% according to NIH research. Meeting recommended daily protein intake through a variety of whole plant foods like legumes, nuts and seeds is important for health and well-being. Small shifts towards plant-based protein sources can make a big impact on health

Just how high are your standards when you're striving for your goals? Are you striving for excellence or are you striving for perfection? The pressure to be perfect is on the rise and it affects our everyday lives - from social media to parenting, work to hobbies. I sat down with Thomas Curran, professor of psychology and behavioral science at the London School of Economics, to unravel the complexities of perfectionism, providing you with knowledge and tools to strive for a healthier mindset. Thomas's expertise and extensive research on perfectionism culminates in his book "The Perfection Trap: Embracing the Power of Good Enough," where he guides us to reflect on the expectations we set for ourselves, the harmful comparisons we make, and how our relentless pursuit of success can sometimes lead to failure and setbacks.   We navigate the world of athletics, where the pursuit of perfection is often unrivaled. From the grueling challenges of the Tour de France to my own personal racing experie

Legendary climber Beth Rodden has accomplished so much in her incredible career - and is now also bravely shared her personal journey of growth. I sat down with Beth to hear about her experiences navigating professional climbing as a woman, the highs and challenges of achieving big goals, and how becoming a mother completely shifted her perspective. Beth is one of the best female rock climbers of all time, the youngest woman to conquer 5.14a, and a globally recognized ambassador for the outdoor community. She's also a mother, and an author. Her new memoir, ‘A Light Through the Cracks: A Climber’s Story,’ vulnerably recounts her harrowing experience with trauma and kidnapping and her healing process. For any athletes, parents or anyone pursuing self-discovery, I hope you'll be inspired by Beth's wisdom on finding balance, speaking your truth, and embracing vulnerability. It was so powerful to chat with Beth - I know you'll enjoy this episode as much as I enjoyed recording it. Here are a few

Ilene Schaffer is a passionate advocate for the Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) program at the University of Pennsylvania. Ilene joined me to explore the transformative journey of pursuing MAPP, its impact on individuals and communities, and the practical applications of positive psychology in everyday life. We uncover the power of positivity, resilience, and human connection. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will inspire you to embark on your own path towards personal and professional fulfillment. Here's what you'll learn: 1. Positive interventions like gratitude exercises, kindness acts, and savoring can increase well-being and positive emotions. 2. It's important to reflect on feeling pride in accomplishments and celebrate small wins. 3. Both giving and receiving gratitude should be other-focused rather than self-focused to have maximum impact. 4. The concept of "satisficing" vs "maximizing" can help with decision-making and reducing regret by fo

Did you know that belief in reliable social connections enhances our wellbeing, reduces stress, and boosts life satisfaction? That’s right, today we’re talking about a topic close to my heart: the power of perceived support. I'm thrilled to be joined by four incredible women athletes to explore how support fuels athletes' performance, motivation, and self-belief.   From rising star cyclist Ellen Campbell to the trailblazing trail runner Courtney Dauwalter, each guest shares their unique journey and insights into the role of perceived support in their athletic endeavors. Learn from Jenny Vierling, co-founder of Tailwind Nutrition, and Maggie Guterl, athlete manager, about their experiences and strategies for overcoming challenges and inspiring others in the endurance sports community.   This conversation is filled with actionable insights and motivational stories that will leave you feeling empowered to tackle your own athletic goals with newfound vigor. I’m so grateful for the support of my new spon

Contemplating our limited time on Earth can motivate us to pursue vitality, meaning, and courage in our everyday lives. In this episode, executive coach Jodi Wellman shares insights on practical strategies for overcoming fears, finding purpose, and injecting more joy and adventure into our routines. Jodi is an executive coach, author, and the founder of Four Thousand Mondays. She is also a graduate of the Masters of Applied Positive Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania.  Her latest book explores how embracing our mortality can inspire us to live more intentionally and authentically. This enlightening conversation will help us harness the transformative power of embracing mortality. Don't miss out on valuable insights that can help you unlock a more fulfilling and purposeful life. Here are a few takeaways: - How thinking about death can motivate living intentionally without regrets by focusing on a limited time horizon - How pursuing both vitality and meaning through experiences and purpose can

Play is more powerful than you may think. I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Dr. Elaine O'Brien to explore the wonderful world of play in our adult lives. Elaine shared the countless ways that play can enhance our well-being, boost our performance, and fuel our personal growth. We talked about breaking through barriers that keep us from embracing play, like judgment and busyness, and shared practical tips for infusing more playfulness into our daily routines. Plus, Elaine shared fascinating insights from her research on using movement and dance to promote well-being in older adults. So, if you're ready to rediscover the joy of play and unlock a happier, healthier life, then you won't want to miss this conversation. You'll walk away with actionable steps to make a difference in your life. You deserve it! Here are a few key takeaways: - Play is important for well-being, resilience, and performance- Having a playful mindset can help balance serious goals and prevent burno