Better Thinking

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Alyssa Godesky about overcoming the physical and mental limits in endurance sports. Alyssa Godesky is an endurance sports coach, professional triathlete and ultrarunner. After 6 years in the corporate world, Alyssa made the leap to pursue triathlon full-time, and hasn’t looked back. An endurance athlete since 2006, Alyssa takes pride in pushing her limits. You can sometimes find her racing Ironmans on back-to-back weekends, or jumping into an ultramarathon. With seven top-5 Ironman finishes in the professional field, and a personal best Ironman time of 9 hours and 33 minutes, Alyssa continues to be a dominant competitor as she enters her seventh year of professional racing. After making a name for herself in the triathlon world, Alyssa wanted to make a mark on the trail running world as well. In 2018, she set the Fastest Known Time (FKT) on Vermont’s 273-mile Long Trail, breaking a 6 year record, with a time of 5 days, 2 hours and 37 min

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with social psychologist Dr Brock Bastian on the value of pain. Dr Brock Bastian is a social psychologist whose research focuses on pain, happiness, and morality. In his search for a new perspective on what makes for the good life, Brock has studied why promoting happiness may have paradoxical effects and why we need negative and painful experiences to build meaning, purpose, resilience, and ultimately greater fulfilment in life. Brock's first book, The Other Side of Happiness, was published in January 2018. Links mentioned in this episode at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/brock-bastian See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Paul Atkins about building effective prosocial groups. Dr Paul Atkins co-developed the Prosocial process which draws upon the psychology of behavior change as well as political, economic and evolutionary science to improve cooperation within and between groups. Paul’s work has been published in the world’s leading management and psychology journals. His latest book “Prosocial: Using Evolutionary Science to Build Productive, Equitable, and Collaborative Groups” has been described as "groundbreaking”, and "chock full of clear steps" (Jane Dutton, author of Awakening Compassion at Work). It is " essential reading for anyone who works with people in group settings, and who is committed to helping these groups to be their best.” says Susan David (author of Emotional Agility). Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/paul-atkinsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Mary Andreadis about identity, awareness of the self and coping with complex identity issues. Nesh Nikolic is a Canberra-based clinical psychologist with over 15,000 hours of one-on-one therapy experience. He has trained in a number of therapy modes including Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Schema Therapy and he is also recognised by Medicare Australia as a qualified provider of specialist clinical psychology services. His therapeutic passion lies in utilising Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for his clients and has trained clinicians around Australia in ACT. Nesh holds a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), Association for Contextual Behavioural Science and Fellow of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists. Mary Andreadis is a Melbourne-based provisional psychologist. She has completed a Bachelors a

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Australian Psychological Society’s CEO, Frances Mirabelli, about the role of the APS and plans for the future of psychology in Australia. Frances Mirabelli is the chief executive officer of the Australian Psychological Society, the leading body representing psychologists in Australia. A former CEO of AMA Victoria, Ms Mirabelli has extensive experience in the health and not-for-profit sectors. Following an education in business administration and applied science, she held leadership roles in aged and community care management at organisations including Wintringham and the Mayflower Group. A forthright leader, Ms Mirabelli has also completed the Cranlana Colloquium and has served as a Board director for Whitehorse Community Health, Yarra Community Housing and Star of The Sea College. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/frances-mirabelliSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Louise Hayes about using a developmental approach of ACT when working with young persons. Dr Louise Hayes is a clinical psychologist with extensive experience in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) training for young people. She is the co-author of the best selling book Get Out of Your Mind and Into your Life for Teenagers and The Thriving Adolescent. Louise divides her time between training and clinical work in acceptance, mindfulness and positive therapeutic approaches, treatment development, speaking, and writing. Her passion is leading trips to the Himalayan mountains to practice mindfulness. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/louise-hayesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Warren Farrell about his book, The Boy Crisis, and the impact fathers have on young men. Dr Warren Farrell has been chosen by the Financial Times as one of the world’s top 100 thought leaders, and by the Center for World Spirituality as one of the world’s spiritual leaders. Dr Farrell’s books are published in over 50 countries, and in 15 languages. They include award-winning international best-sellers, Why Men Are The Way They Are, The Myth of Male Power, and The Boy Crisis which he co-authored with Dr John Gray. Dr Farrell is currently the Chair of the Commission to Create a White House Council on Boys & Men, taught at the university level in five disciplines, and appeared on more than 1,000 TV and radio shows, from Oprah to Larry King Live. He has been featured repeatedly in Forbes, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/warren-farrell See omnystudio.com/

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with clinical psychologist Marcela Lapertosa about what we can learn through our awareness, understanding and respect of different cultures. Marcela Lapertosa is a clinical psychologist and Senior Manager of Education and Development at AFS Intercultural Programs Australia. AFS Intercultural Programs is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/marcela-lapertosaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Mary Andreadis about the psychological and contextual aspects of loneliness and isolation. Nesh Nikolic is a Canberra-based clinical psychologist with over 15,000 hours of one-on-one therapy experience. He has trained in a number of therapy modes including Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Schema Therapy and he is also recognised by Medicare Australia as a qualified provider of specialist clinical psychology services. His therapeutic passion lies in utilising Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for his clients and has trained clinicians around Australia in ACT. Nesh holds a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), Association for Contextual Behavioural Science and Fellow of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists. Mary Andreadis is a Melbourne-based provisional psychologist. She has completed a Bachelors and

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Professor Devon Polaschek about research and treatment of high-risk violent offenders in prisons and on parole. Devon Polaschek is a forensic clinical psychologist, professor of psychology, and Joint Director of the New Zealand Institute for Security and Crime Science at the University of Waikato. She studies high-risk violent offenders in prisons and on parole and has done research that found intensive psychological treatment and early release on parole was more effective at reducing reoffending among high-risk prisoners than serving out full prison sentences. In the 2019 Queen's Birthday Honours, Polaschek was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to criminal psychology. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/devon-polaschekSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Janelle Colquhoun about her incredible life before and after blindness. Her “I'm Blind, Whatever!” attitude is contagious and inspiring! At age 10, Janelle Colquhoun was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, which she ignored as she pursued her passion to be on stage. During school she took music, dance and drama lessons, performed in choirs, stage shows, dance revues and played trumpet in concert and jazz bands before winning a scholarship to study opera at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music. At the end of expo Janelle accepted a full-time contract with the Australian Opera, where a highlight was singing in a trio with Dame Joan Sutherland in her Farewell Season. Two years and many successful singing competitions later, Janelle moved to Europe where she sang with the Oper Frankfurt until aged 29 she went blind from the complications of diabetes. She moved back to Brisbane and between many more diabetes-related health issues including stom

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Professor Edward Watkins on his research in effective treatment of mood disorders, depression and rumination. Edward Watkins is Professor of Experimental and Applied Clinical Psychology and Director of Research for Professional Doctorates at the University of Exeter, UK. He is a clinical psychologist currently working as a researcher, teacher and clinical practitioner within the Mood Disorders Centre in the UK, which is a partnership between the University of Exeter and Devon Partnership NHS Trust. In 2004, Professor Watkins was awarded the British Psychological Society's May Davidson Award. This award is for “a clinical psychologist who has made an outstanding contribution to the development of clinical psychology within the first 10 years of his/her work as a qualified clinical psychologist. The contribution may be through clinical research or other professional work. It should be innovative and of an order sufficient to become wid

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Kevin Polk about the the ACT Matrix and its application in both individual and clinical settings. Kevin Polk, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and creator of the ACT Matrix. He spent approximately 17,000 hours simplifying Acceptance and Commitment Therapy down to the two lines of the matrix, which is now used across the United States and internationally. Individuals, therapists and hospitals use the ACT Matrix to improve communication and solve conflicts. Kevin also co-hosts The Art of Being podcast with good friend, and fellow psychologist, Phil Tenaglia. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/kevin-polkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Erika Penney on the research and treatment of Narcissistic & Borderline Personality Disorder in psychology. Dr Erika Penney is a lecturer, clinical psychologist, and external placement coordinator with the master of clinical psychology program at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). She has particular interests in complex trauma, developmental trauma, stigma, and personality disorders. She has taught at a number of leading universities on personality disorders and has published papers in the areas of anxiety, stigma, and personality. In addition to her work at UTS, Erika is a Board Approved Supervisor and supervises clinical psychologists who have particular interests in Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, personality disorders, and trauma. In 2016 Erika founded the Foresight Psychology practice in Sydney which continues today under new leadership with a team of passionate psychologists dedicated to effective practice an

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Graeme Cowan about how small, and often overlooked, rituals can make a significant impact in personal and professional life. In his early career, Graeme Cowan worked in senior leadership positions with Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, and AT Kearney. Then in 2000 began a 5-year episode of depression that his psychiatrist described as the worst he had ever treated. He emerged from this crisis with a different view about how we can increase our resilience, mood and performance. Graeme is the author of 4 books including the internationally acclaimed Back from the Brink, which has a testimonial from the former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. These days you will find Graeme working with leaders and teams to be more caring, resilient and growth-oriented though his workshops and presentation. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/graeme-cowanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Alan Castel about his new book, Better with Age: The Psychology of Successful Aging, and the many myths and paradoxes about the aging process. Alan Castel is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles. He studies learning, memory, and aging, and is interested in how people can selectively remember important information. He received his PhD from the University of Toronto, did a fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis, and has been at UCLA since 2006. He lectures internationally to people of all ages, and has received several teaching awards. His work has been featured in the New York Times and Time Magazine. His new book is entitled Better with Age: The Psychology of Successful Aging. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and three children. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/alan-castelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Senior Sergeant Daryl Elliot Green about his horrific experience of being ambushed on duty and shot in the face at close range, the dark years that followed and his path to recovery. At 3:50am on 1 May 2000, in a dark Brisbane cul-de-sac, Senior Sergeant Daryl Elliot Green and his colleagues were ambushed by a gun wielding neighbour and shot numerous times. Daryl was shot in the face at close range and again in the arm. From this horrific experience, Daryl learned what most people don't have to: how to be resilient in the face of extreme circumstances. The legacy of Daryl’s shooting was a harrowing ten-year road to recovery despite being honoured with the Queensland Police Service’s highest accolade for bravery, the Valour Award, and a Group Bravery Citation from the Governor-General, Sir Peter Cosgrove. Today, Daryl shares powerful life lessons through his TWICE SHOT talks, workshops and programs. He speaks on resilience, courageous con

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Mary Andreadis about emotional intelligence and how it can impact us in the workplace, relationships and personal decision-making. Nesh Nikolic is a Canberra-based clinical psychologist with over 15,000 hours of one-on-one therapy experience. He has trained in a number of therapy modes including Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Schema Therapy and he is also recognised by Medicare Australia as a qualified provider of specialist clinical psychology services. His therapeutic passion lies in utilising Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for his clients and has trained clinicians around Australia in ACT. Nesh holds a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology and is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), Association for Contextual Behavioural Science and Fellow of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists. Mary Andreadis is a Melbourne-based provisional psycholo

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with Dr Benjamin Habib about how a panic attack on live television became a turning point in his personal battle with anxiety. Dr Benjamin Habib is a Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia. Ben is an internationally published scholar with a current research interest in intersections between grassroots sustainability and regeneration projects, environmental movements and international climate politics. Previously he as researched the political economy of North Korea’s nuclear program, East Asian security, and international politics of climate change. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/benjamin-habibSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Better Thinking, Nesh Nikolic speaks with psychologist Natalie Cross about her personal experience of multiple pregnancy losses. Natalie Cross is a registered psychologist working in Sydney. She previously worked at Strategic Psychology (Nesh’s practice) in Canberra. She was kind enough to reach out and offer to share her experience of multiple pregnancy losses in the hope it can help other women and families going through a similar situation. Episode links at https://neshnikolic.com/podcast/natalie-crossSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.