Episode 165: The Psychology of Special Operators (w/Dr. Shannon Baird and Nikko Wheeler)

In this engaging episode of Psychology and Stuff, host Dr. Alison Jane Martingano sits down with Dr. Shannon Baird and Navy Special Operations Veteran Nikko Wheeler to discuss the psychology of Special Operations. They discuss the mental skills needed to be a part of a special operations team which include self-awareness and self-regulation. Dr. Baird explains the role of a cognitive enhancement practitioner and the exercises that are used to help special operators train for pressure-filled performances as well as the transition support in and out of missions. Nikko Wheeler shares his own experiences with these trainings as well. Additional themes of trusting yourself, the importance of connections, and ways to cope with chronic stress are discussed. Listen in to learn more about this intriguing field and the mental preparation needed to work in high-stress situations.