Title: George Mumford Discusses Pure Performance, The Zone, and Lessons from Champions
Podcast: Mick Unplugged
Host: Mick Hunt
Guest: George Mumford
Release Date: June 2, 2025
Introduction
In this transformative episode of "Mick Unplugged," host Mick Hunt engages in a deep and insightful conversation with George Mumford, a renowned mindfulness coach celebrated for guiding basketball legends Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. George shares his journey, philosophies on pure performance, emotional intelligence, and valuable lessons on leadership and personal growth.
George's Journey and Early Influences
Meeting Future Legends ([04:06])
George recounts his college years at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, where he became roommates with Julius Irving, who would later be known as Dr. J. This relationship introduced him to the world of elite basketball and laid the groundwork for his future collaborations with top athletes.
"I knew I wanted to serve and I knew I wanted to share what I had." [06:10]
Overcoming Personal Struggles ([07:21])
George opens up about his battle with substance abuse during his college years and how his journey to sobriety in 1984 was pivotal. This period of recovery ignited his passion for mental preparedness and unlocking personal potential.
"It was that gift of desperation that allowed me to look at it and start to see, okay, getting connected to my power source." [08:33]
Working with Elite Athletes
Collaboration with Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant ([12:31])
George delves into his experiences working with legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. He explains how mindfulness practices helped these athletes enhance their performance by staying present and accessing their 'pure performance' state.
"These folks are unlocked. And one way to get unlocked is to say yes to whatever's coming up and then figuring out what you need to learn." [18:14]
Pure Performance Defined ([00:15])
George introduces his concept of "pure performance," emphasizing performing for the love of the activity itself, without external pressures or the need to prove oneself.
"Pure performance is when you're doing the thing for the activity in and of itself for no reason other than being in the moment and expressing yourself honestly." [00:15]
Principles of Modern Leadership
Discovering Your 'Because' ([03:08])
The conversation shifts to the deeper purpose behind one's actions. George stresses the importance of understanding one's 'Because'—a core driving force that aligns personal and professional aspirations.
"To unlock the vice spark in each and every human being." [03:08]
Emotional Intelligence ([23:43])
George breaks down emotional intelligence into self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship development. He highlights the necessity of creating space between stimuli and response to manage emotions effectively.
"We have this ability as human beings to step back and observe our experience." [26:41]
Handling Mistakes and Embracing Growth
Letting Go of Mistakes ([33:02])
Mick and George explore the concept of moving past mistakes. George encourages viewing mistakes as feedback rather than failures, advocating for a mindset that allows individuals to let go and focus on continuous improvement.
"Mistakes are just feedback. There's no such thing as failure, just feedback." [35:02]
Practical Strategies ([35:02])
George provides actionable strategies for letting go of mistakes, such as reflecting post-performance and focusing on the next step rather than dwelling on past errors.
"You got to make the next play." [35:58]
Leadership and Team Dynamics
Empowering Teams ([44:56])
George shares his leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of giving team members a voice and fostering a sense of ownership and accountability within the team.
"When you're a leader, you give other people a say in where you're going because then, now they're in it. It's not your team, it's our team." [44:56]
Modeling Behavior ([46:06])
He underscores the role of leaders in modeling desired behaviors, trusting their teams, and inspiring them to take responsibility for their actions.
"You have to model the behavior, but then you have to trust them and inspire them to do it." [47:03]
Rapid Fire Q&A
In a rapid-fire segment, Mick poses quick questions to George, allowing him to share succinct wisdom on various topics.
Cost of Staying Locked ([38:46])
George explains that the cost of mental locking includes loss of self-expression, autonomy, and the ability to perform spontaneously—key elements of being "unlocked."
"When you're locked up mentally, your body, your mind, your heart and your soul are all locked up." [39:27]
Final Advice for Listeners ([49:29])
George encourages listeners to seek his resources for further growth and highlights the importance of continuous self-improvement and unlocking one's potential.
"My Mindful Athlete book, I read that over 60 times, and the Unlocked book, I probably read about 15 times already or 20 times." [51:22]
Conclusion
Mick Hunt wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of discovering and unleashing one's 'Because' to achieve personal and professional fulfillment. He thanks George for his profound insights and encourages listeners to take actionable steps toward unlocking their potential.
"Remember your because is your superpower. Go unleash it." [53:44]
Key Takeaways
- Pure Performance: Engage in activities for their intrinsic value, focusing on being present and authentic.
- Unlocking Potential: Understanding and embracing one's core driving force ('Because') is essential for growth.
- Emotional Intelligence: Developing self-awareness and self-regulation improves personal and professional relationships.
- Handling Mistakes: View errors as feedback, let go of them, and focus on continuous improvement.
- Leadership: Empower teams by giving members a voice, modeling desired behaviors, and fostering accountability.
Notable Quotes
- "Pure performance is when you're doing the thing for the activity in and of itself for no reason other than being in the moment and expressing yourself honestly." [00:15]
- "You need to create space between any given stimulus we may receive in our response to it." [23:43]
- "Mistakes are just feedback. There's no such thing as failure, just feedback." [35:02]
- "When you're a leader, you give other people a say in where you're going because then, now they're in it. It's not your team, it's our team." [44:56]
Further Resources
- George Mumford's Website: GeorgeMumford.com
- YouTube Channel: Search for "George Mumford" on YouTube for his "At Home with George" sessions.
- Books:
- Mindful Athlete: Secrets to Pure Performance – Available on Amazon and major bookstores.
- Unlocked: Embrace Your Greatness, Find Your Flow, and Discover Success – Available on Amazon and major bookstores.
This episode of "Mick Unplugged" offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills, achieve peak performance, and foster personal growth through mindfulness and emotional intelligence. George Mumford's experiences and insights provide invaluable lessons for leaders, athletes, and individuals striving to unlock their full potential.