In this episode of the Unit3d Podcast, PhD student Maria D'Ugo sits down with Dr. Mark Aoyagi - a leading sport and performance psychologist, professor at the University of Denver, and founder of the Center for Performance Excellence. Dr. Aoyagi is a licensed psychologist and certified mental performance consultant with extensive experience working with several professional, Olympic, and NCAA athletes and organizations. His work centers on team effectiveness, culturally responsive practice, and elite performance environments.
Maria and Dr. Aoyagi explore the human side of sport through a conversation about culture, identity, and what it means to show up as your authentic self. Drawing from his decades of experience across high-performance environments, Dr. Aoyagi discusses how connection, mental flexibility, and understanding of the whole athlete shape both well-being and performance. Together, they dive into how cultural identities shape team dynamics, belonging, and communication - and what coaches and practitioners can do to create environments where athletes feel valued, supported, and able to thrive. Dr. Aoyagi offers practical and thoughtful insights for athletes, coaches, and practitioners working at the intersection of identity, culture, and performance.
