From bartending and modeling in New York City to becoming a Zen psychologist working with elite athletes, Dr. Pete Economou’s story is all about transformation, discipline, and radical self-awareness. In this honest and often hilarious conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles sit down with Dr. Pete to discuss healing from the inside out, breaking the stigma around men’s mental health, and finding peace in a world that never stops moving.
Sh!t That Goes On In Our Heads — a 2024 People’s Choice Podcast Award Winner (Best Health) and 2024 Women in Podcasting Award Winner (Best Mental Health Podcast) with over 2 million downloads and counting — continues its mission to spark unfiltered conversations about the human mind.
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Mental Health Quote
“Whatever you’re in right now — it will pass. Everything moves. Everything changes.” — Dr. Pete Economou
Episode Description
Dr. Pete Economou has lived a few lifetimes in one. From swimming at Olympic trials to tending bar at one of New York City’s most exclusive nightclubs, his journey eventually led him to the one place he never expected to land—inside his own mind. Now a Zen teacher, sport psychologist, and professor, Dr. Pete brings a rare blend of science, spirituality, and straight talk to the world of mental health.
In this powerful and refreshingly real conversation, G-Rex and Dirty Skittles dive deep into how Dr. Pete bridges East and West, blending Buddhist philosophy with cognitive behavioral therapy to help people heal from burnout, anxiety, and perfectionism. He shares how working on the sidelines with elite athletes has taught him that mental health struggles don’t discriminate—everybody, no matter how successful, has their own internal battles.
Together, they unpack the power of boundaries, why vulnerability is a form of strength, and how the “middle path” can transform our approach to healing. Dr. Pete also opens up about his long-term meditation practice, his work mentoring future psychologists at Rutgers University, and how moderation—not extremes—is the foundation of sustainable wellness.
This episode is part pep talk, part mindfulness lesson, and part wake-up call for anyone who’s ever tried to “fix” themselves into wellness. Whether you’re a high performer, an athlete, or someone simply trying to stay grounded in a chaotic world, Dr. Pete’s insight reminds us that healing isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.
Keywords: Dr. Pete Economou, mindfulness, Zen psychology, men’s mental health, sports psychology, emotional wellness, athlete mindset, healing journey, meditation, CBT, stress management, boundaries, resilience, self-care, psychology, mind-body connection, wellness
Meet Our Guest — Dr. Pete Economou
Dr. Peter J. Economou, Ph.D., ABPP, is a Board-Certified Cognitive Behavioral Psychologist, Zen teacher, author, and professor at Rutgers University’s Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, where he directs the Master of Applied Psychology program. As a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC), he has spent over 15 years working with professional and collegiate athletes to integrate mindfulness, performance optimization, and mental wellness.
Dr. Pete’s background uniquely bridges science and spirituality. With advanced training in neuropsychology and sport psychology, and formal Zen training under the White Plum lineage, he combines modern therapy with ancient wisdom. His work focuses on helping people cultivate awareness, compassion, and emotional regulation in their daily lives.
He is the author of Mindfulness Workbook for Beginners and Meditation Journal for Anxiety, co-host of the podcast When East Meets West, and an active advocate for mental health normalization across industries—from locker rooms to boardrooms.
Connect with Dr. Pete:
- Website: https://officialdrpete.com/
- Instagram: https://w
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