047: Josie Perry on the psychology of communication

In this episode, Dr. Josie Perry, a performance psychologist with a unique background in communications, joins the conversation. Josie has an established consultancy service catering to endurance athletes, golfers, and tennis players. She originally started her career in journalism and held positions as a director of communications and public relations. This interview explores the intriguing intersection of psychology and communications, especially how they relate to human behavior, influence, and development.

Show notes touch upon Josie’s journey from journalism to sport psychology, including her academic credentials and her work in communications. Josie stresses the importance of knowing your audience when delivering information and shares tips on how to frame difficult conversations effectively.

The discussion also covers her transition from being a journalist at CBS News to becoming a sports psychologist. Josie talks about the concept of having a “brave list,” as well as the challenges she faced while balancing motherhood, training for an Ironman, running a business, and undergoing stage 2 training.

Josie explores the changing landscape of communication, particularly how social media has impacted the way we communicate, emphasizing the importance of clarity and brevity. She notes that stories can be powerful tools for problem-solving and influencing change.

Her newly launched book, “Performing Under Pressure,” is also discussed. The book delves into the nine most common reasons athletes seek her professional help. She suggests starting with the “what” and then delving into the “why” when addressing these issues.

Other topics include growing her business over time, taking brave steps, and the different elements that contribute to the stability of her consultancy—namely one-on-one work, writing, and media training. Josie shares her personal mantra, “Make Hattie Proud,” and concludes with advice she would give to her younger self.

The interview offers a holistic view into Dr. Josie Perry’s multidisciplinary approach to performance psychology, combining insights from both her communications background and her expertise in psychology.

Show notes

Background and journey to sport psychology, Monica Lewinsky, a PhD and working within communication
When delivering information, who is your audience?
How to frame a difficult conversation in a way that works for the other person.
Bridging from being a journalist on CBS new to being a sport psychologist
Having a brave list
The having a baby, ironman, running a business and stage 2 training juggle!
Clarity and brevity of communication and the shift in communication style due to social media
Stories are powerful. What problem are you trying to solve and how can you utilise stories to enable your message?
Perfectionism
Josie’s book – The nine most common reasons athletes come to see me.
Start with what and then why?
Taking time, growing your business and being brave
The different elements of Josie’s consultancy which provide stability 1:1 work, writing and media training
Mantra that work, Josie’s mantra, “Make Hattie proud”
Josie’s lesson to her younger self