Professor P with Dr.Peykar

OLYMPIC SERIES Episode 9 | Alexander Mikhaylin: The Mindset Behind a Judo Legend [TEAM RUSSIA]

In this powerful episode of the Professor P Podcast, we sit down with one of the most decorated judokas in history — Alexander Mikhaylin. A 3× World Champion, 6× European Champion, and Olympic Silver Medalist, Mikhaylin takes us deep inside the mind of a champion.
From his early days in Russia discovering judo, to standing on the Olympic podium after a legendary final against Teddy Riner, Alexander opens up about what it takes to stay at the top in one of the world’s most intense combat sports. But this episode isn’t just about winning — it’s about enduring, overcoming doubt, and training the mind as much as the body.
We explore:
The mental game behind world-class judo
How he built unshakable discipline and resilience
What was going through his mind during the Olympic final
His philosophy on pressure, failure, and legacy
The life lessons that transcend the mat — into leadership, business, and personal growth
Alexander’s mantra is clear: “It is all in your mind.” Whether you’re an athlete, coach, leader, or anyone striving for greatness, this episode will leave you with practical wisdom and deep insight into the psychology of elite performance.
 
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Alexander Mikhaylin is one of the most decorated judokas in history, known for his technical skill, strategic mindset, and resilience in competition. Competing in the +100 kg heavyweight division, he dominated the sport for over a decade, becoming a three-time world champion and a ten-time European champion.
Mikhaylin’s career was marked by his ability to adapt and outmaneuver some of the sport’s biggest names. His most notable achievement came at the 2012 London Olympics, where he earned a silver medal after an intense final against Teddy Riner, one of judo’s greatest athletes.
Beyond competition, Mikhaylin is recognized for his mental toughness, discipline, and ability to push through setbacks, making him a powerful voice in discussions on high-performance psychology and resilience.

OLYMPIC SERIES Mini-Episode 8 | Kamara James: The Olympian Who Fought Battles Seen and Unseen

Kamara James was more than an Olympian—she was a scholar, a fighter, and a deeply human spirit. In this heartfelt episode, we explore her rise from humble beginnings to the Olympic stage, her intellectual brilliance, and her quiet battle with mental illness. Her story challenges our definitions of success and reminds us that strength isn’t the absence of struggle—it’s the courage to keep going. Tune in to honor a life of power, complexity, and enduring inspiration.
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Kamara James (1984–2014) was an American Olympic épée fencer and mental health advocate. Born in Jamaica and raised in New York, she began fencing at age 11 and quickly rose to elite levels, earning a full scholarship to Princeton University and representing the U.S. in the 2004 Athens Olympics. After the Games, she pursued international relations at Harvard but began experiencing symptoms of schizophrenia. Despite these challenges, she became a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and dignity. Kamara passed away at age 29, but her legacy endures as a story of brilliance, bravery, and boundless human potential.
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Fun fact: In high school, Kamara James scored an exceptionally high 1500 on the SAT (out of 1600 at the time), demonstrating her brilliance not just on the fencing strip but in academics as well. She was offered multiple Ivy League scholarships, ultimately attending Princeton and then Columbia. Her story highlights a rare fusion of athletic excellence and intellectual achievement, making her a role model for young women aiming to defy expectations in every arena.

OLYMPIC SERIES Episode 8 | Beyond the Net: Sanja Malagurski’s Olympic Journey & Legacy in Volleyball [TEAM SERBIA]

What does it take to compete on the world’s biggest stage? Olympic volleyball star Sanja Malagurski knows firsthand. From stepping onto the court at just 18 in the 2008 Beijing Olympics to winning European gold and playing for elite clubs worldwide, Sanja has carved an inspiring path in professional volleyball. But her journey wasn’t just about medals—it was about resilience, mental toughness, and the evolution from an athlete to a leader in the sport.
In this episode, we dive into the pressures of Olympic competition, overcoming injuries, the psychology of elite performance, and her transition from player to mentor. Tune in as Sanja shares the highs, the challenges, and the mindset required to thrive at the Olympic level and beyond.
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A professional athlete turned visionary leader, Sanja Malagurski is a Serbian volleyball icon, Olympian, European champion, entrepreneur, mentor, and sports management professional. Born on June 8, 1990 in Subotica, Serbia, Sanja rose to elite status as an outside hitter on the Serbian national volleyball team from 2007 to 2018.
In a stellar sports career, she represented Serbia at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and secured a gold medal at the 2011 European Championship. She also helped claim European League titles in 2009 and 2011 and a bronze medal in the 2011 FIVB World Grand Prix. On the club circuit, Sanja notched major wins in Serbia, Slovenia, Romania, Italy, Poland, Brazil (Molico Osasco), Turkey, and Italy again with Bergamo, including a silver finish at the 2014 FIVB Club World Championship.
Since retiring, Sanja has seamlessly transitioned into entrepreneurship and sports administration. She founded the clothing brand PersonalbySM, serves as PR & Projects Coordinator for Volleyball Nations League in Serbia, mentors athletes through UNICEF and Junior Achievement, and leads volleyball camps across Europe.
In her feature on the GESP Podcast, Sanja opened up about the challenges of retirement, identity shifts, and how athletes can reinvent themselves beyond competition—emphasizing leadership, mental resilience, and the lasting power of sport’s life lessons

OLYMPIC SERIES Mini-Episode 7 | Sir Peter Snell: Running with Purpose, Leading with Humility

In this episode, we celebrate the life and lessons of Sir Peter Snell, one of New Zealand’s most legendary middle-distance runners and a quiet titan of Olympic history. With three Olympic gold medals and a record-breaking career, Snell wasn’t just fast—he was deeply focused, mentally disciplined, and grounded in humility.
But what made him truly remarkable was how he carried his greatness: with quiet strength, unshakable discipline, and a lifelong commitment to human performance—both on the track and in the lab. After retiring young, he went on to become a respected sports scientist, turning his passion into knowledge to uplift others.
This episode distills the top five life lessons from his extraordinary path—exploring the mindset, training ethic, and humble leadership that powered his success. From embracing simplicity to respecting preparation, Peter Snell’s story is a masterclass in purposeful living.
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Sir Peter Snell (1938–2019) was a New Zealand middle-distance runner and one of the most dominant athletes of his era. He won three Olympic gold medals—one in the 800 meters at the 1960 Rome Olympics and two (800m and 1500m) at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Coached by the legendary Arthur Lydiard, Snell was known for his explosive speed, stamina, and strategic race execution. He held world records in the 800m, 1000m, and mile.
After retiring at age 26, he moved to the United States and earned a Ph.D. in exercise physiology, later teaching and researching at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Knighted in 2002, Snell is remembered as a national icon in New Zealand and an enduring symbol of modest greatness.
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FUN FACT: Despite being known for his explosive speed, Sir Peter Snell originally struggled to make his school’s track team and only began to take running seriously after being encouraged by coach Arthur Lydiard, who spotted his raw talent. Within just a few years, Snell rose from an overlooked teenager to an Olympic champion, showing that sometimes greatness emerges not from early success, but from the right mentorship and relentless self-belief.

OLYMPIC SERIES Episode 7 | Robin Seidl: Mastering the Sand & the Mind – The Olympic Journey of Inner Freedom (TEAM AUSTRIA)

Beach volleyball isn’t just about skill—it’s about mental resilience, adaptability, and trust. In this episode, Austrian Olympian Robin Seidl takes us inside his world, from the high-pressure courts of the 2016 Rio Olympics to the philosophy that drives his game: Inner Freedom.
How does an elite athlete handle setbacks? What does it take to perform when the world is watching? Robin shares how he stays mentally sharp, embraces uncertainty, and continuously evolves, both as a competitor and a mentor. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or simply chasing your own version of success, Robin’s insights will challenge you to trust yourself, let go of fear, and play to win—on and off the court.
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Robin Seidl is a professional Austrian beach volleyball player who has competed at the highest levels of international volleyball, including the Olympic Games. Known for his agility, strategic gameplay, and resilience, he has made a significant mark on the sport.
Seidl has been a regular on the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour, competing against the world's best athletes and securing multiple podium finishes. His career highlight includes representing Austria at the 2016 Rio Olympics, showcasing his skill and determination on the global stage.
Beyond competing, Seidl is passionate about mentorship, personal growth, and mental resilience. He believes in the philosophy of "Inner Freedom", emphasizing mindset, self-trust, and adaptability as key factors for success in both sports and life.

OLYMPIC SERIES Mini-Episode 6 | Ágnes Keleti: Grace, Grit, and Glory Through the Storm

What does it mean to find grace after grief, to pursue excellence beyond expectation, and to dance into old age with joy? In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life of Ágnes Keleti, Holocaust survivor, Olympic legend, and timeless teacher. From redefining age and artistry in gymnastics to her philosophy of life after 100, Keleti’s story is a powerful reminder that the human spirit—when filled with grace and grit—can illuminate the darkest of times. Discover how her legacy can inspire you to move with purpose, live with joy, and teach with love.
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Ágnes Keleti was a Hungarian-Israeli gymnast, teacher, and one of the most inspiring Olympic champions in history. Born in Budapest in 1921 to a Jewish family, her early life was marked by talent, discipline, and the rising threat of World War II. She survived the Holocaust by assuming a false identity and going into hiding—losing many family members in the process. Despite these unimaginable hardships, Keleti resumed training after the war and, in a stunning display of resilience and determination, went on to become one of the most decorated female Olympians, earning 10 medals (including 5 golds) at the 1952 and 1956 Olympic Games—all while in her 30s, defying the norms of her sport.
After the Soviet invasion of Hungary in 1956, she chose not to return home and instead built a new life in Israel, where she became a beloved coach, educator, and advocate for women's physical education. Beyond her athletic brilliance, Keleti was known for her optimism, warmth, and her deeply human spirit. She lived past 100 years old, often reminding others, “Life is beautiful if you make it beautiful.” Her life is not only a record of triumph in sport but also a profound testimony to endurance, renewal, and the power of choosing joy despite suffering.
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FUN FACT: During World War II, Ágnes Keleti survived the Holocaust by assuming a false identity and working as a maid in the Hungarian countryside. Her father and many relatives were killed in Auschwitz, but Keleti endured and returned to gymnastics after the war. Despite missing what would’ve been her first Olympics in 1948 due to injury, she came back stronger proving that resilience and grace can triumph over even the darkest of histories.

OLYMPIC SERIES Episode 6 | Emma Maltais: The Olympic Mindset – Grit, Gold, and Greatness [TEAM CANADA]

What does it take to reach the pinnacle of women’s hockey and win Olympic gold? In this episode, we sit down with Emma Maltais, Team Canada forward and Olympic gold medalist, to explore the relentless drive, resilience, and mental toughness required to compete on the world’s biggest stage. From her early days in Burlington, Ontario, to excelling at Ohio State University and earning a place on the Olympic roster, Emma shares her journey, the sacrifices behind the success, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. How do elite athletes stay mentally strong under pressure? What fuels the pursuit of greatness beyond the gold medal? Join us for an inspiring conversation about the Olympic mindset, overcoming obstacles, and paving the future of women's hockey.
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Emma Maltais is an Olympic gold medalist and a standout forward for Team Canada. Known for her speed, relentless work ethic, and elite playmaking ability, Maltais has made a name for herself on both the international stage and in professional women’s hockey.
Her rise to prominence began at Ohio State University, where she was a dominant force in the NCAA. She earned multiple accolades, including:
WCHA Rookie of the Year (2017-18)
Top 10 Finalist for the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award (2020)
Three-time First Team All-WCHA Selection
Her impact extended beyond college hockey as she transitioned into international play, competing for Team Canada at the highest level:
IIHF U18 Women’s World Championship (2016 & 2017): Won two silver medals.
2021 IIHF Women’s World Championship: Helped Canada secure gold.
2022 Winter Olympics (Beijing): Played a key role in Canada’s gold medal-winning campaign, contributing to the team’s dominant run.
In 2023, Maltais took her talents to professional hockey, signing with Toronto in the PWHL, further solidifying her status as one of the brightest stars in women’s hockey.

OLYMPIC SERIES Mini-Episode 5 |Fanny Blankers-Koen: The Flying Housewife Who Changed the Finish Line

In this inspiring episode, we explore the remarkable life of Fanny Blankers-Koen—the Dutch sprinter who redefined what it means to be a woman in sports. At a time when female athletes were often discouraged, dismissed, or ignored—especially after marriage and motherhood—Blankers-Koen proved that passion, discipline, and talent have no expiration date.
At the 1948 London Olympics, at age 30 and a mother of two, she sprinted her way into history, winning four gold medals and earning the nickname “The Flying Housewife.” But her story goes far beyond medals. It's a tale of quiet rebellion, unwavering focus, and a legacy that still challenges our assumptions about age, gender, and ambition.
Join us as we dive into the mindset that fueled her record-breaking runs, the societal barriers she leapt over, and the practical ways her life story can inspire our own—whether on the track, in the boardroom, or at home.
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Fanny Blankers-Koen (1918–2004) was a Dutch track and field legend who stunned the world at the 1948 Olympic Games by winning four gold medals in the 100m, 200m, 80m hurdles, and 4x100m relay—all while being 30 years old and a mother of two. Known as "The Flying Housewife," she shattered outdated expectations of women in athletics and became a symbol of resilience, grace, and determination. In a post-war era when many believed a woman’s place was at home, she ran against that current—literally and metaphorically—becoming the first female athlete to show the world that motherhood and elite performance are not mutually exclusive. Named the IAAF's “Female Athlete of the Century” in 1999, her legacy continues to inspire athletes and advocates across generations.
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FUN FACT: Fanny Blankers-Koen actually set or tied 12 world records in her career—not just in sprinting, but also in events like the high jump, long jump, and even the hurdles. She was a true all-around athlete, basically a one-woman track team!

OLYMPIC SERIES Episode 5 | Racing the Edge: Kyle Evans on BMX, Fearlessness, and the Mental Game of Speed [TEAM GREAT BRITAIN]

"It’s super important to put your goals out into the world by speaking them out loud—and even more so, to write them down and place them in an environment where you can see them every day." Kyle Evans
 
What does it take to compete at breakneck speeds, make split-second decisions, and push past fear on the world’s biggest stage? In this episode of Professor P Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Evans, British BMX champion and Olympian, to dive deep into the mental and psychological side of elite racing.
Kyle shares his journey from local tracks to the Olympic Games, revealing how he developed the mental toughness, focus, and resilience needed to excel in one of the world’s most intense sports. We explore:🔹 The psychology of speed—how to stay in control when everything is moving at lightning pace🔹 Overcoming fear and doubt when every race is high-stakes🔹 How he dealt with injuries, setbacks, and the pressure of elite competition🔹 The transition from athlete to mentor—what he’s teaching the next generation of BMX riders
Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or someone chasing bold goals, this conversation will challenge you to embrace risk, trust your instincts, and build a champion’s mindset.
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Kyle Evans is a British BMX racer known for his explosive speed, fearless riding style, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Born on September 26, 1993, in Wigan, England, Evans quickly rose through the ranks of British BMX racing, earning a reputation as one of the country’s top riders.
His breakthrough came when he represented Great Britain at the 2016 Rio Olympics, showcasing his talent on the world’s biggest stage. Throughout his career, he has competed in multiple UCI BMX World Championships and played a pivotal role in Team GB’s success in international competitions.
Some of his key achievements include:
2018 European BMX Champion, securing gold in the men’s elite category
Multiple-time British BMX Champion, dominating the national circuit
Key member of Great Britain’s BMX program, helping to develop the sport for future generations
Evans’ career has been defined by resilience and mental toughness, qualities essential in a sport where split-second decisions can mean the difference between victory and defeat. After retiring from competitive racing, he has remained deeply involved in BMX, coaching and mentoring young riders, as well as advocating for the psychological and physical aspects of elite performance.
With a career built on determination, adaptability, and a fearless competitive mindset, Kyle Evans continues to inspire the next generation of athletes—on and off the track.

OLYMPIC SERIES Mini-Episode 4 | Bob Beamon: The Leap That Shook the World

Today, we're diving into the story of a man whose name became synonymous with the impossible—Bob Beamon. Born in South Jamaica, Queens, in 1946, Beamon faced tough circumstances from a young age. He lost his mother when he was just a child and was raised by his grandmother. Growing up in a rough neighborhood, sports became more than just a pastime—it became a lifeline. It was in high school that Beamon discovered his raw talent for track and field, especially the long jump.
His athletic gifts earned him a scholarship to the University of Texas at El Paso, where he continued to train and compete. But it was at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics that Bob Beamon etched his name into history. In a moment that stunned the world, he launched himself into the air for a jump of 8.90 meters, or 29 feet, 2½ inches. That single leap broke the existing world record by an astonishing 55 centimeters—over 21 inches. To give you a sense of how unheard of that was, even the measuring device at the time wasn’t prepared for a jump that long.
The term "Beamonesque" was born that day—used ever since to describe athletic achievements that defy belief. While high altitude and a favorable wind may have helped, nothing could diminish the sheer brilliance of that moment. Beamon’s world record would stand untouched for 23 years, until Mike Powell finally surpassed it in 1991.
After the Olympics, Beamon didn’t chase records. Instead, he completed his education at Adelphi University and turned toward giving back—working as a motivational speaker, sports administrator, and youth advocate. He was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1977 and remains a symbol of human potential.
Bob Beamon’s story is a powerful reminder that in one moment—one leap—we can redefine what’s possible. His Olympic jump wasn’t just a record—it was a revolution.
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Bob Beamon is a former American track and field athlete whose name became synonymous with greatness after his unforgettable performance at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics. In a single, gravity-defying moment, Beamon leapt 8.90 meters (29 feet 2½ inches) in the long jump—breaking the world record by an astonishing margin and creating what many call the greatest single leap in sports history. The jump was so far beyond what anyone thought possible that it gave rise to the term “Beamonesque,” meaning a performance so extraordinary it defies comparison. Born and raised in Queens, New York, Beamon overcame a difficult childhood and racial injustice to become a symbol of perseverance and excellence. After retiring from competition, he turned his focus to education, youth empowerment, and motivational speaking, continuing to inspire generations long after his historic jump.
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FUN FACT: Before his historic jump at the 1968 Olympics, Bob Beamon almost didn’t get the chance to compete—he was nearly disqualified during the qualifying round after fouling his first two jumps. On his final attempt, he played it safe just to make the final. The next day, he unleashed one of the greatest performances in sports history. That dramatic turnaround—from the brink of elimination to immortality—makes his story one of the most inspiring underdog moments in Olympic history.