S3E33: Beyond the Game: The Spiritual Edge That Transforms Athletes and Teams with Denise Holland

Denise Holland is a leader in the spiritual nature of human psychology behind sports performance—the most undiscovered competitive advantage! With over 35 years of experience, Denise has coached at the highest levels, from World Championships to England’s Super-league, and even led the Scottish Thistles to the Commonwealth Games. Her unique approach helps athletes and coaches PlayFreely™—unlocking focus, awareness, and optimal performance when it matters most. Denise’s journey was transformed by an epiphany into the spiritual nature of existence and human consciousness, which reshaped how she supports sportspeople to achieve their full potential. By demystifying the human mind and focusing on the formless intelligence behind life, Denise empowers individuals to access their true capabilities when it matters most. As a coach and thought leader, Denise inspires athletes, coaches, and teams to explore what’s possible—helping them understand that identity is never on the line and that curiosity about who we are can be a gateway to optimal performance. And this is why I’m excited to bring you this conversation. Denise offers a revolutionary perspective on sports performance, redefining how we understand pressure, resilience, and team cohesion.   Talking Points: The system: fear, empowerment, and the internal journey Feeling our thinking: understanding the connection between thoughts and emotions How results, jobs, and status impact our identity Pure love as a requirement for growth Breaking free from the paradigms that hold us back Crossing the bridge to spiritual excellence The shift from belief to knowing The simplicity of circumstance: How a loss feels immediately versus later Exploring the euphoria of winning and its temporary nature Time’s role in processing loss—what if it doesn’t take time? Team cohesion as a living experience and resilience as a magnet Lessons from Māori culture and its impact on team dynamics Intrinsic motivation and its role in sport systems Becoming an explorer of what’s possible Getting curious about who and what we truly are   If you enjoy this episode please leave a review on iTunes or Spotify platforms, and by doing this you will actively help spread this content to the practitioners that need it.   Resources Men Behind Sport Support  The Coach Toolbox  Clarity by Jamie Smart 3 Principles   Connect with Denise: Linkedin Website