084: Who’s Running Your Mind? : Freud vs. Adler

In this raw and powerful episode, Smith & Mayhew dive deep into the roots of behaviour, self-sabotage, and the impact of unresolved childhood trauma. They discuss the contrasting theories of Freud (cause and effect) and Adler (purpose and choice), all through the lens of real coaching experiences. With brutally honest storytelling, they explore how early abuse, gaslighting, and emotional manipulation can shape a man’s self-worth — and how it can be unlearned. Expect conversation around “healing the boy so the man can appear”, breaking out of victimhood, and what it really means to take responsibility. They also unpack imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and the seductive comfort of feeling like crap... yes, really. Oh, and there's a solid gym story involving burpees, rowers, and insecure side-eyes 👀 Classic! The book that Mayhew mentioned is The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt and the study is Pursuing Happiness - https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/Pursuing_Happiness-_The_Architecture_of_Sustainable_Change.pdf If you want your question answered on a future episode, please drop the lads a line : [email protected] Adam Smith From depressed and suicidal to the happiest and fittest he’s ever been, Adam Smith’s self-development journey hasn’t been easy but it has been worth it. Today, he’s a qualified mindset coach in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and a certified Time Line Therapist®. Adam has coached many high performers, using NLP to rewire his clients’ thoughts and behaviours so they can destroy limiting beliefs and engineer the change needed to excel. Connect with Adam Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/ Adam Mayhew Adam Mayhew swapped burnout and binge drinking for ultra marathons, CrossFit and sobriety. A registered nutritional therapist specialising in performance nutrition, Adam supports everyone from office workers to athletes to build healthy eating habits. Using science (and never fad diets, quick fixes or gym bro culture) he helps clients target their problem areas and confidently master diet, training and lifestyle. Connect with Adam Mayhew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mayhew-nutrition-coaching/ To find out more about Smith & Mayhew: https://agameconsultancy.com/about/