073: The Play Zone: Revolutionizing Leadership with Polyvagal Theory with Michael Allison

In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Michael Allison, an educational partner with the Polyvagal Instituteory. Michael shares his profound insights on the application of polyvagal theory to enhance leadership and performance, iMichael's unique approach helps leaders and individuals achieve peak performance by consciously controlling their physiology. With extensive experience working with athletes and business leaders, Michael's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to elevate their performance and leadership effectiveness.

As mentioned, Michael is an educational partner with Polyvagal Institute and Stephen W. Porges, Ph.D. (originator of Polyvagal Theory) leading the development and delivery of a Polyvagal-informed Certificate for Health, Wellness & Performance Coaches accredited by the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaches. 

His unique application of Polyvagal Theory to performance endorsed by Dr. Porges – The Play Zone – provides a paradigm shifting methodology to optimize control of our performance through skillful and conscious control of our physiology. 

Michael consults with professional, collegiate and high performing coaches, teams, organizations, athletes and performers in a variety of disciplines, as well as schools, executive coaches, business leaders and corporate teams.

He is a Health & Performance Coach, Personal Trainer, Medical Exercise Specialist, Post Rehab Specialist and Certified Oxygen Advantage Breathwork Instructor, and the author of SMARTER Coaching, a certificated behavior change course accredited by the American Council on Exercise. In addition, Michael is a certificated ILS Safe & Sound Provider / Remote Provider and Focus System Training Provider.

 

🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways:

• Understanding Physiology: Michael explains the crucial role of physiology in influencing behavior and performance. He emphasizes how our internal state impacts our interactions and effectiveness as leaders. 🧠💪
  
  

• The Play Zone: Introducing the concept of the "play zone," Michael describes how achieving a state of play can enhance creativity, collaboration, and overall performance. 🎮🌟
  
  

• Polyvagal Theory in Practice: Insights into how polyvagal theory can be applied in both athletic and corporate settings to improve performance through better regulation of the nervous system. 🏃‍♂️🏢
  
  

• Importance of Safety: Michael discusses the significance of creating an environment of physiological and psychological safety to foster trust, belonging, and optimal performance. 🛡️🤝
  
  

• Navigating Different States: An exploration of the performance hierarchy, detailing the predictable physiological states we go through and how to manage them effectively. 🔄🧘‍♂️

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro

• 02:04 Understanding Physiology and Performance

• 06:15 The Role of Physiology in Leadership and Business

• 15:43 Navigating Physiological States in High-Stress Situations

• 24:25 Recognizing and Managing Physiological Responses

• 29:32 Introduction to Neuroception

• 30:03 Understanding Neuroception

• 33:12 The Role of Neuroception in Leadership

• 33:54 Building Awareness and Skills

• 37:12 Practical Applications for Leaders

• 39:06 The Importance of Psychological and Physiological Safety

• 43:06 Strategies for Team Resilience

• 55:25 Closing Thoughts and Resources
  
  

🌈 Closing Thoughts:

This episode with Michael Allison provides a deep dive into the transformative power of polyvagal theory and its ap