Optimize Your Game, a Podcast from the University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute

On this episode of Optimize Your Game, Dr. Lee Kaplan sits down with Miami Host Committee Legend Gilberto Silva, World Cup Champion, former Brazil National Team midfielder, Arsenal great, and FIFA Technical Study Group analyst.Gilberto shares his remarkable journey from playing barefoot in a small village in Brazil, to working in a factory to help support his family, to earning one final chance at professional soccer — a chance that ultimately led him to the World Cup, the Premier League, and one of the most respected careers in the sport. Together, Dr. Kaplan and Gilberto explore what separates elite performers, and Gilberto reflects on the evolution of modern soccer performance, and why the mental side of the game is now as essential as nutrition, recovery, tactics, and physical training.The conversation also celebrates soccer’s unique power to unite people across countries, cultures, and generations — and the deep meaning of representing your family, your hometown, and your country on the world stage.

In this episode of Optimize Your Game, Dr. Lee Kaplan sits down with Donna Shalala—former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and past President of the University of Miami—for a conversation on leadership, resilience, and impact.Drawing from decades of experience across education, government, and healthcare, Dr. Shalala reflects on the realities of leading complex organizations, staying closely connected to the communities you serve, and navigating decisions that carry long-term consequences.She also looks ahead to the evolving role of artificial intelligence in healthcare—particularly its potential to improve patient outcomes.This conversation offers a rare look at leadership from someone who has operated at the highest levels—and what it takes to lead with purpose in moments that matter most.

In this episode, Dr. Lee Kaplan sits down with Greg Mark, former standout defensive lineman and a longtime coach for the Miami Hurricanes.Greg shares what it takes to build champions the right way—developing young men, demanding accountability, and putting team before self. He reflects on the football culture he was raised in - earning your role on the team through patience, humility, and distinct contributions - not entitlement.The conversation also explores what Miami football has meant to him across decades as both a player and defensive line coach - offering a timeless perspective on leadership, legacy, and culture that transcends the game.

Dr. Lee Kaplan sits down with Harvard Business School professor Dr. Regina Herzlinger — widely regarded as the “Godmother of Consumer-Driven Healthcare.” Together, they explore how empowering individuals to make informed choices can transform both personal health outcomes and the healthcare system itself. Herzlinger explains why transparency, interoperability, team-based medicine and the power of private innovation are essential to building a system that performs as well as the people it serves. She also shares deeply personal insights on resilience and what it really means to “bet on yourself.” A candid conversation at the intersection of medicine, innovation, and human performance—and a reminder that the future of healthcare begins with those bold enough to rethink it.  You can learn more about Dr. Herzlinger at HBS.edu.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Pat Whitely, a cornerstone of student life at the University of Miami and a leader whose influence spans decades. As the U celebrates its centennial, Pat reflects on the evolution of student affairs and the strategies that have shaped a culture of excellence. She shares why prioritizing student well-being and safety isn’t just a responsibility—it’s the foundation for optimizing performance in every arena, from academics to athletics and beyond. This conversation is a deep dive into leadership, resilience, and the art of building systems that empower human potential.You can learn more about Pat Whitely and her work at https://studentaffairs.miami.edu.

In this special episode, the tables turn as Optimize Your Game host Dr. Lee Kaplan, Director of the University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute, steps into the guest seat. Drawing from a career spent treating and studying elite athletes — from college champions to professional icons — Dr. Kaplan shares what decades in sports medicine have taught him about discipline, recovery, mindset, and the science of sustained performance.From the operating room to the sidelines, he reflects on the patterns of excellence that define the world’s best — and how those same principles can help anyone pursue greatness in their own life.You can learn more about Dr. Lee Kaplan at UHealthSports.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Stephania Bell, ESPN’s lead injury analyst and one of the most trusted voices in sports medicine reporting. Stephania takes us through the evolution of her career — from physical therapist, into fantasy football analysis, and ultimately becoming a fixture in sports broadcasting.She opens up about the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field and the importance of developing a thick skin in the face of criticism. Beyond her career journey, Stephania also shares what she has learned about the mental side of injury rehabilitation, and how mindset plays as critical a role as physical treatment in an athlete’s return to play.This conversation is a candid look at resilience, reinvention, and the balance between cultivating credibility, spotting opportunity early, and persistence in high-performance environments.You can learn more about Stephania at @StephaniaBell on Instagram or @Stephania_ESPN on X.

In this episode of Optimize Your Game, we sit down with Scot Morrison, Performance Science Director for the Miami Marlins, to discuss how data is transforming player performance and recovery in Major League Baseball. Scot shares how the Marlins leverage analytics, technology, and individualized performance plans to optimize training, manage workload, and keep athletes competing at their best.You can learn more about Scot and the Miami Marlins at www.mlb.com/marlins.

In this episode of Optimize Your Game, we sit down with David Zambrana, President and Chief Operating Officer of Jackson Health System, to explore what it truly means to lead with humility in today’s healthcare environment. With decades of experience leading complex organizations, David shares how intensely human leadership—rooted in trust, empathy, and a deep respect for frontline staff—can drive meaningful performance and lasting impact. From building culture to making better decisions by listening to the people delivering the results, David offers practical insights for professionals across industries who want to elevate their teams and cultivate efficacy as leaders.

Jason Green, Chief Revenue Officer for Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Dolphins, F1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix and Miami Open discusses how Hard Rock Stadium serves as a stage for everything from international soccer matches to sold-out concerts, and how each event demands a tailored marketing approach. We dive into his leadership philosophy, and reflect on what makes the Miami market truly unique—and how to turn that complexity into opportunity.You can learn more about Jason's work at HardRockStadium.com.

Known for her transformative leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence, legendary (retired) Coach Katie Meier shares her coaching philosophy, the values that guided her storied career, and her approach to developing peak performance in athletes.From building a culture of accountability and resilience to recognizing the unique strengths of each player, Coach Meier offers insights that go beyond the court, providing valuable lessons for athletes, coaches, and anyone striving to perform at their best.Tune in to discover how Coach Meier has consistently coached excellence from her players and how she defines peak performance — both for herself and her teams.You can learn more about Coach Meier at www.miamihurricanes.com.

Heisman winner and Super Bowl MVP Desmond Howard shares what it takes to reach—and stay at—the top. From the power of mentorship to the value of surrounding yourself with high performers, Desmond offers hard-earned insights on human potential. He also reflects on an unexpected lesson from a conversation with a professional ballerina, revealing what elite performers across fields have in common.You can learn more about Desmond at DesmondHoward.com.

Dr. Lee Kaplan sits down with Jorge Gonzalez, CEO of City National Bank, to explore the deep connection between sports, leadership, and high performance. Jorge shares how athletics shape character, decision-making and discipline—key traits for success in business and life. This conversation is a masterclass for anyone looking to elevate their leadership game. Tune in for insights on discipline, healthy competition, and the mindset that fuels top performers.You can learn more about Jorge at cnb.com.

Join Dr. Lee Kaplan in an electrifying conversation with Christine Coppola—marathon swimmer, 3X Ironman finisher, HR pro, mom, and unstoppable force. Christine takes us inside the grueling mental and physical battle of tackling some of North America’s toughest swims, from the 28.5-mile 20 Bridges Swim to the Catalina Channel’s eerie, overnight 20-mile stretch. From mastering visualization to surrendering control, to conquering open-water fears (yes, sharks!) and to the science of fueling while swimming, this episode is packed with lessons in resilience. Tune in and get inspired to push past your own limits. Follow Christine's journey on Instagram @christinejcoppola13/

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and J.D. Arteaga, head coach for the Miami Hurricanes baseball team. Step up to the plate with this inspiring episode as we dive into the transformative power of resilience. Discover how cultivating a culture of grit and character on and off the field shapes players into stronger athletes and better humans. We explore the pivotal lessons of detaching self-worth from performance, embracing failure (or injury) as growth, and fostering a mindset that transcends the game. Whether you're an athlete, a leader, or someone striving for personal growth, this episode offers profound insights on building resilience that lasts a lifetime. You can learn more about J.D. at MiamiHurricanes.com.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Milagros Cubelli, Chief Marketing Officer of the Miami Sharks professional rugby team. We discuss what makes rugby a distinct culture – in terms of athletic performance, the spirit of competition, and within the Global sports community – and how the brand is cultivating a new fanbase in South Florida. You can learn more about the Miami Sharks at MiamiSharks.com.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Melissa Medina, Co-founder, CEO & President of eMerge Americas. We discuss the unique role of Healthcare within eMerge Americas’ vision and programming, balancing eMerge’s impact alongside the priorities of parenting 5 children, and the legacy of immigrant families within Miami’s culture. You can learn more about Melissa at eMergeAmericas.com. The 2025 edition of eMerge Americas will take place on March 27 and 28, at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Jordan-Elizabeth Long, Principal Soloist with the Miami City Ballet. We discuss the discipline and vision that led Jordan from childhood ballet in Blacksburg, Virginia to the Royal Swedish Ballet and European stages, and to becoming the Miami City Ballet’s Principal Soloist. We also discuss her choice to earn an MBA at the University of Miami, what goes inside pointe shoes, and “the work” that takes place backstage – appearing completely effortless to the audience. You can learn more about Jordan on Instagram @Jordan.Elizabeth.Long, and at MiamiCityBallet.org.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Stephen Staffieri, former Hurricanes football player throughout the 1984 through 1987 seasons, and founder of the podcast "The Game Changer Series”.  We discuss with Stephen how his definition of “peak performance” has evolved from his time as an All-American to his current professional and personal pursuits, how he motivates others to achieve more in their lives (his three P’s), and his advice for anyone wondering about life after competitive sports. You can learn more about Stephen and the Game Changer Series at @thegamechangerseries_ on Instagram.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Chris Pavon, Senior Manager, DCC Community Engagement with the Miami Dolphins. An icon within the South Florida and broader performance cycling community, Chris is now responsible for widening the Dolphins Cancer Challenge’s reach and impact within the local community. We discuss with Chris the components of high performance in cycling (including bike tech), keys to evolving from casual to performance cycling, and why cycling is at the heart of the DCC.   You can learn more about the DCC at dolphins.donordrive.com.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Dr. Stephen Nimer, director of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. In his leadership role at the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center in South Florida, Dr. Nimer has cultivated a team of more than 250 world-class physicians and researchers to create an environment of excellence and collaboration. He is a physician-scientist who has dedicated his career to conducting extensive clinical and basic science research on treating adult leukemia.   We discuss with Dr. Nimer the importance of focus, purpose, and a culture of high standards in driving optimal performance, the impact of building the right team for professional and personal accountability, the critical role of compassion when caring for patients, and his love of cycling, among other topics. You can learn more about Dr. Nimer at UMiamiHealth.org/Sylvester.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Dr. Ricardo Komotar, renowned Neurosurgeon and Co-Director of the Sylvester Brain Tumor Institute. Dr. Komotar is an international leader in pioneering strategies for brain tumor surgery and treatment, performing nearly 700 surgical procedures each year using cutting-edge techniques that remove tumors with the least impact on the patient and their daily lives. Dr. Komotar has authored hundreds of articles and chapters about his research and has served as an advisor on numerous national boards, medical societies, and committees.  We discuss with Dr. Komotar the value of doing difficult things, how peak physical and mental performance impact professional performance, why he cold plunges before 6am every morning, and the importance of mind-frame in overcoming difficulties. You can learn more about Dr. Komotar at UMiamiHealth.org/Sylvester, and follow him on Instagram or on X.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Don Bailey, Jr., former Hurricanes Football team captain, and now radio color commentator for ‘Canes football broadcasts. Don was an integral player in Coach Howard Schnellenberger’s era of Hurricanes football, and is also owner of Don Bailey flooring, a South Florida business icon. We discuss with Don his first-hand experience across decades of Hurricanes football’s cultural evolutions, and how he stays a lifelong learner and competitor. You can learn more about Don at MiamiHurricanes.com.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Jacqueline Kasen, Senior Director of Group Fitness at Anatomy Fitness, strength & performance coach and speaker on a mission to guide individuals toward surpassing their own limitations to achieve greatness. Jacqueline has also embraced the challenges of mountaineering and exploration, setting her sights on conquering the prestigious Explorer's Grand Slam. She has already experienced a climbing expedition to Aconcagua, Argentina – the highest mountain in the Americas. We discuss with Jacqueline what “peak performance” looks like, the value of feeling discomfort and embracing difficulties, the importance of recovery, and why we should all say “yes” to climbing the mountains in our daily lives. You can learn more about Jacqueline at @KasenFitness on Instagram.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Jeff Conine, former All-Star player with the MLB and now current Executive and Advisor to the Miami Marlins. We discuss with Jeff the mind frame and behaviors to endure as a life-long athlete, how the culture of performance measurement has evolved in professional baseball, and how to complete an Ironman (hint: it’s not just about physical endurance). You can follow Jeff Conine on X: https://twitter.com/jic9er

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Zach Ripic, postdoctoral associate with the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences at the University of Miami. We discuss with Zach the methodology being researched and developed by his collaboration with the Sports Medicine Institute and Kinesiology to measure an injured athlete’s physiological and psychological readiness to safely return to play – what we’re calling The Miami Score. This episode touches on what we’re learning about the relationship between emotional/mental confidence and quality of movement, and its implications for athletes and active individuals of every level recovering from an injury. You can learn more about The Department of Kinesiology and Sport Sciences at the University of Miami at kin.edu.miami.edu.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Drew Rosenhaus, renowned sports agent, and founder of Rosenhaus Sports. Drew has successfully negotiated over 7 billion dollars in contracts throughout his career, representing some of sports’ biggest names, including Tyreek Hill and Rob Gronkowski. We discuss with Drew insights on negotiating the best terms for his clients, integrity as a key to the best outcomes, the impact of NIL on college athletes, and the correlation between personal discipline and professional performance – whether in college, the pro leagues or careers off the field. You can learn more about Rosenhaus Sports at www.rosenhaussports.com.

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Tommy Otley, Physical Therapist and Sports Scientist with Miami Hurricanes Basketball. Tommy also manages sports science for both programs, including overseeing team performance technology use, baseline profiling assessments and in-season athlete monitoring. We discuss the role of wearable technologies and data in assessing how athletes are responding to physical load and recovering during long seasons like that of 2023, the importance of reverse engineering your own choice of performance measures based on your personal objectives (i.e., not all data is relevant data), and UHealth and Hurricanes Athletics’ comprehensive approach to returning an athlete to SAFE play after injury. Additional references: https://miamihurricanes.com/

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Jon Jay, first base coach for MLB's Miami Marlins, and former outfielder with the MLB and Miami Hurricanes, where he became both a World Series Champion and Hurricanes Hall of Famer. Jon also started the Jay Family Foundation to give back to the communities that allowed him to become who he is today.  We discuss the pros and cons of performance data, the power of relationships in influencing performance, the elements of a “winning culture”, the evolution of the science of performance, paying it forward through coaching, and life lessons from sports. You can learn more about Jon and the Jay Family Foundation at: https://jayfamilyfoundation.com/ Additional references: https://www.mlb.com/marlins https://miamihurricanes.com/

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Leslie Bonci, sports nutrition consultant for the 2020 and 2023 Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs. Leslie is a registered dietitian, board-certified specialist in sports dietetics, the owner of Active Eating Advice, a nutrition consulting company, and co-founder of Performance365, a sports nutrition consulting company.  We discuss the role of a personalized nutrition plan in optimal human (and sports) performance, why your “hand to mouth activity" (what to eat, when, and how much) and internal fitness equipment (food and fluids) are critical to achieving your sports performance and body composition goals, the dangers of health halos, and the importance of muscle preservation and body composition as outcomes of proper nutrition. You can learn more about Leslie below: www.activeeatingadvice.com

A conversation between Dr. Lee Kaplan and Dr. Luis Feigenbaum, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Performance, Health and Wellness for the Miami Hurricanes. We discuss the role of supplements, recovery, performance measurement technologies and other strategies employed for optimal performance among the University of Miami's D1 athletes - and insights that can be applied by active individuals of all levels.