Ep 93: Performing Under Pressure Without Losing Yourself - Running, Resilience, and the Nervous System, with Michael Allison and Dr. Michelle Quirk

What if peak performance isn't about pushing harder?

In this episode, I sit down with performance coach, educator, and author Michael Allison to explore how our nervous system shapes performance, resilience, recovery, and even our enjoyment of running.

Michael is the creator of The Play Zone and has trained hundreds of coaches, therapists, and leaders worldwide in applying Polyvagal Theory to performance, health, leadership, and wellbeing. Together, we discuss what happens when we find ourselves stuck on the treadmill of achievement, why connection matters for performance, and how understanding our nervous system can help us navigate pressure without losing ourselves in the process.

We also share personal stories from endurance sports, including Michael's first Boston Marathon and my experience navigating a challenging Half Ironman swim using many of the principles we discuss in this conversation.

Whether you're training for a race, navigating a demanding career, or simply trying to move through life with more awareness, this episode offers a different perspective on what it means to perform well under pressure.

In This Episode We Discuss:

• What Polyvagal Theory is and why it matters for runners and high achievers
• The concept of the Play Zone and how it applies to performance
• Why pre-race nerves are a normal part of preparation
• Michael's reflections on running the Boston Marathon before discovering Polyvagal Theory
• The role of connection, community, and play in endurance sports
• Lessons from a challenging Half Ironman swim
• How to recognize when your nervous system is overwhelmed
• The difference between fighting your experience and working with it
• Why many high achievers feel stuck on a treadmill that never stops
• The importance of awareness, acceptance, and intentional recovery
• How running can become a path to self-discovery and healing

Memorable Quotes

"Are you running toward something, or running away from something?"

"It's not about being happy. It's about being with."

"We have to step off the treadmill from time to time."

Resources Mentioned

• The Play Zone https://www.theplayzone.com
• Polyvagal Institute https://www.polyvagal.org
• Michael Allison's upcoming book: The Performance Code: The New Science of Achieving Under Pressure https://www.theperformancecode.com/
• Follow Michael on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/playzonepro

Connect with Coach Michelle

Follow Coach Michelle on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon

If you have questions about your own training, reach out on Coach Michelle's website, and let's explore working together for personalized support. https://mindful-marathon.com

*** The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider. ***