Podcasts > This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von > E485 Israel Adesanya

E485 Israel Adesanya

By Theo Von

Embark on a journey with Theo Von and guest Israel Adesanya in "This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von" as they delve into the intricate world of mental health, the rigors of a UFC career, and the balancing act with personal interests. Adesanya shares his views on the importance of therapy for personal growth and the need for a strong therapeutic relationship rooted in trust. As they unpack the challenges and triumphs of a professional fighter's life, the conversation underscores the constant pursuit of learning from defeat and leveraging setbacks for growth.

The commitment to personal development and mental resilience takes center stage as Adesanya talks about the pressures that come with fame, shedding light on anxiety, isolation, and the strategies he uses, including his relationship with his past in Nigeria, to sustain his emotional wellbeing. Exploring interests beyond the octagon, Adesanya’s conversation with Theo Von also touches upon his curiosity and careful approach regarding the use of psychedelics like ayahuasca and psilocybin to achieve deeper self-reflection, emphasizing the balance between personal exploration and maintaining athletic discipline.

E485 Israel Adesanya

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E485 Israel Adesanya

1-Page Summary

Mental Health and Therapy

Therapy is crucial for personal growth, and finding the right therapist plays a significant role in mental health progression. The ideal therapist should foster advancement rather than stasis. When it feels like there's no progress being made, it may be time to look for a new therapeutic alliance. Additionally, trying out different therapists, much like dating, is recommended until the perfect match is found. The relationship must be rooted in trust and a sense of achievement on the mental health journey.

UFC Career and Fighting

Adesanya persistently pursues improvement in his UFC career and personal development in tandem with the challenges of fame. He emphasizes the necessity to learn from previous mistakes, particularly from unsuccessful fights, and uses setbacks as stepping stones for further progress. Even though he has already achieved significant success, Adesanya does not lose sight of the importance of evolving as a UFC fighter. While navigating the pressures of fame, he has had to cope with anxiety and isolation, which underlines the need for personal growth and establishing firm boundaries.

Interests Outside Fighting

While specific hobbies outside of fighting are not detailed in the text, athletes like Adesanya often engage in pastimes such as golf, video games, and cooking. These activities function as a means of relaxation and a way to express creativity beyond their athletic careers.

Nigeria Background

Adesanya's upbringing in Nigeria was marked by privilege and a strong emphasis on the value of hard work. These principles became the bedrock of his character, preparing him for future challenges such as relocating to New Zealand. There, as one of the few Black students, he faced the complex process of assimilation and finding his place within a new cultural context.

Ayahuasca Experiences

Adesanya expresses curiosity about the mental benefits of ayahuasca but is mindful of the risks it may pose to his fighting mentality. He recounts his experience with microdosing psilocybin, which brought about a profound level of self-reflection and engagement with his inner self. Despite possible concerns, Adesanya is open to trying ayahuasca in the future, intrigued by the potential insights it could provide, as long as it does not jeopardize his athletic discipline.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • A therapeutic alliance is a collaborative relationship between a patient and therapist to work towards achieving mental health goals through agreed-upon tasks. It involves trust, mutual understanding, and a sense of achievement in the therapeutic journey. The alliance is essential for progress in therapy and provides a supportive environment for personal growth and healing. It is a foundational element in therapy that emphasizes the importance of the relationship between the patient and therapist.
  • Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew traditionally used in spiritual ceremonies in South America, known for its hallucinogenic properties and potential for deep introspection. Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, known for its ability to induce altered states of consciousness and promote introspective experiences. Both substances have gained attention for their potential therapeutic effects on mental health and personal growth, although they are also associated with risks and legal restrictions in many places.
  • Assimilation challenges, in the context of Adesanya's upbringing in a new cultural environment, refer to the difficulties he faced in adapting to and integrating into a different societal and cultural setting than his own. This process involved navigating unfamiliar customs, norms, and social expectations while trying to find his place and establish a sense of belonging within the new community. Adesanya's assimilation challenges highlight the complexities and adjustments individuals may experience when transitioning to a new cultural context, especially when faced with factors like race, identity, and societal perceptions. These challenges can impact one's sense of self, relationships, and overall well-being as they strive to reconcile their background with the demands and dynamics of a new cultural environment.
  • In the context of personal growth and navigating fame, establishing firm boundaries involves setting clear limits on what is acceptable in relationships and interactions to protect one's well-being and values. It means defining and communicating personal needs and limits to maintain a healthy balance between personal and professional life. This practice helps individuals like Adesanya manage external pressures, maintain focus on their goals, and safeguard their mental and emotional health. Setting firm boundaries is essential for creating a supportive environment that fosters growth and protects against potential harm or distractions.

Counterarguments

  • While therapy can be crucial for personal growth, it's not the only path to self-improvement; some individuals may find growth through self-help, spirituality, or community support.
  • The notion of an "ideal" therapist may be misleading, as therapeutic needs can vary greatly among individuals; what works for one person may not work for another.
  • Sometimes, a lack of progress in therapy might be due to factors other than the therapist-client match, such as the client's readiness for change or external life circumstances.
  • Constantly changing therapists in search of the perfect match could potentially disrupt the therapeutic process and hinder the development of a stable therapeutic relationship.
  • Trust and a sense of achievement are important in therapy, but so are other factors like setting realistic goals, managing expectations, and the therapist's competence in specific areas.
  • While Adesanya's approach to learning from mistakes and using setbacks as stepping stones is commendable, it's important to acknowledge that not all individuals may have the resilience or resources to do so.
  • Personal growth and establishing boundaries are important, but the text does not address how individuals with different life circumstances might face unique challenges in these areas.
  • Hobbies are beneficial for relaxation and creativity, but the assumption that athletes engage in specific activities like golf, video games, and cooking may not apply universally.
  • The emphasis on hard work as a value from Adesanya's upbringing is positive, but it's also important to recognize the role of opportunity, support systems, and other factors in one's success.
  • The challenges of assimilation and finding one's place in a new cultural context are complex and can vary widely based on individual experiences and the societal dynamics of the host country.
  • While Adesanya is curious about the mental benefits of ayahuasca, it's important to note that such substances are not universally accepted or legal, and their use should be approached with caution and under professional guidance.
  • Microdosing psilocybin and considering ayahuasca may not be suitable for everyone, and there are risks associated with the use of psychedelic substances that should be carefully weighed.

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E485 Israel Adesanya

Mental Health and Therapy

Mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and seeking therapy can be a vital step toward healing and personal growth.

Importance of Finding the Right Therapist

Therapist should help you, not keep you stuck

It is critical to find a therapist who aids in your progress. The right therapist should provide support that moves you forward rather than keeping you stagnant. Therapy is a tool for healing and development; therefore, if you find yourself not evolving or feeling stuck, it may be a sign to consider other therapeutic options.

Try different therapists like you would dating

Finding a therapist can be similar to dating; it’s essential to meet different therapists to find the one that suits you best. It ...

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Mental Health and Therapy

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The comparison of finding a therapist to dating suggests that just like in dating where you may meet different people before finding the right match, it's important to explore different therapists to find the one that fits your needs best. This comparison emphasizes the importance of compatibility, comfort, and a good fit in the therapist-client relationship, similar to how these factors are crucial in a romantic relationship. The analogy highlights the personal nature of the therapeutic process and the significance of finding a therapist with whom you feel a strong connection and rapport.
  • Feeling stuck in therapy can occur when a person doesn't experience progress or growth despite attending sessions. It may manifest as a sense of being at a standstill or facing recurring issues without resolution. This feeling can indicate a mismatch between the individual's needs and the therapy approach, highlighting the importance of exploring other therapeutic options. Recognizing and addressing this feeling is crucial for ensuring that therapy is effective and beneficial for the individual's mental health journey.
  • The therapist-client relationship is cr ...

Counterarguments

  • While mental health is important, some individuals may find alternative methods to therapy that work better for them, such as support groups, self-help strategies, or lifestyle changes.
  • Therapy can be beneficial, but it is not the only path to healing and personal growth; some may find equal or greater benefit from other practices like meditation, exercise, or religious/spiritual involvement.
  • A therapist's role is to support progress, but sometimes feeling stuck can be part of the therapeutic process, and it may not necessarily mean the therapist is ineffective.
  • The analogy of trying different therapists to dating might trivialize the professional nature of the therapeutic relationship and the complexity of mental health issues.
  • While meeting multiple therapists can be helpful, it may not be feasible for everyone due to financial constraints, limited availability of therapists, or insurance l ...

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E485 Israel Adesanya

UFC Career and Fighting

Adesanya opens up about his UFC career, discussing both his motivation to evolve as a fighter and the personal growth that comes with dealing with fame.

Motivation and Hunger to Keep Evolving

Has achieved unprecedented success but always improving

Adesanya emphasizes a keen awareness of his career trajectory, handling upcoming fights while recognizing the importance of not dwelling too heavily on the future. This forward-thinking outlook involves acknowledging past missteps, particularly reflecting on fights that didn't go his way. This retrospective approach shows his mindset is geared towards constant improvement. After experiencing a setback, Adesanya assesses his performance candidly. He highlights the importance of taking his time to reassess after a loss, which underscores his patience and rigorous determination to excel further in his sport.

Despite having achieved unprecedented success in the UFC, Adesanya maintains an unwavering dedication to self-improvement, demonstrating that his hunger to evolve as an athlete is relentless.

Dealing with Fame

Struggled with anxiety and isolation early on

Unfortunately, the provided transcript does not offer information on ...

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UFC Career and Fighting

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • High-profile athletes often use coping mechanisms like establishing boundaries, learning to say 'no,' seeking support from trusted individuals, engaging in self-care practices, and prioritizing mental health to navigate fame and public scrutiny effectively. These strategies help athlete ...

Counterarguments

  • While Adesanya's focus on not dwelling on the future is commendable, some might argue that strategic future planning is also essential for a successful career, especially in a dynamic sport like MMA where long-term goals can guide training and development.
  • Reflecting on past losses is important, but there is a risk of overanalyzing or becoming too self-critical, which could potentially hinder performance if not balanced with positive reinforcement and confidence-building.
  • Patience and determination are vital, but there is also a place for urgency and adaptability in responding to setbacks, especially in a fast-paced sport where the competitive landscape can change quickly.
  • Adesanya's dedication to self-improvement is impressive, but it's important to recognize that even top athletes may reach a performance plateau, and maintaining success can sometimes be as challenging as achieving it.
  • While establishing boundaries and l ...

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E485 Israel Adesanya

Interests Outside Fighting

Golf, Video Games, Cooking

While the transcript did not provide specific details about interests outside of fighting, such as golf, video games, or cooking, these activities are often popular among athletes for helping them decompress and tap into their creative side. Unfortunately, without more information directly related to an ...

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Interests Outside Fighting

Additional Materials

Clarifications

...

Counterarguments

  • While golf, video games, and cooking are popular hobbies, not all athletes may find these activities enjoyable or beneficial for decompression.
  • Some athletes may prefer other forms of relaxation and creativity stimulation, such as music, art, or reading.
  • The assumption that these hobbies help with decompression and creativity may not apply universally; some individuals might find these activities stressful or unfulfilling.
  • The popularity of hobbies can vary greatly depending on cultural, socioeconomic, and personal factors, which means that golf, video games, and cooking mi ...

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E485 Israel Adesanya

Nigeria Background

Early Life and Move to New Zealand

Life of privilege but still learned value of hard work

Had to find way to fit in as one of few Black students

Growing up in Nigeria, individuals often experience a life juxtaposed by privilege and the imperative of hard work. Despite the advantages that may come from privileged backgrounds, the importance of diligence and perseverance is a lesson that is instilled from an early age. This upbringing serves as a foundation for future challenges, such as moving to a new country.

Upon relocating to New Zealand, Nigerian expatriates are faced with the task of integrating into a society where they may be one of the few Black students or individuals. Th ...

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Nigeria Background

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • In the context of Nigeria, the phrase "life juxtaposed by privilege and the imperative of hard work" suggests that individuals often come from backgrounds with certain advantages or privileges, but they are also taught the essential value of working hard and being diligent. This means that despite any advantages they may have, they are expected to work hard and not rely solely on their privileges for success. It highlights the balance between having certain benefits in life and the necessity of putting in effort and perseverance to achieve their goals.
  • In the context provided, the mention of Nigerian expatriates being among the few Black students in New Zealand highlights the relative lack of racial diversity in certain settings within New Zealand, particularly in educational institutions. This situation can lead to challenges related to integration, cultural adjustment, and a sense of belonging for individuals who may visibly stand out due to their race or ethnicity. It underscores the unique experiences and potential obstacles faced by Black individuals, including Nigerian expatriates, in predominantly homogenous environments like New Zealand.
  • Being a visible minority means belonging to a racial or ethnic group that is easily noticeable or stands out in a particular community or society. This visibility can lead to experiences of discrimination, stereotyping, and feeling like an outsider. Visible minorities often face challenges related to inclusion, representation, and acceptance in environments where they are in the minority. These challenges can impact various aspects of their lives, including social interactio ...

Counterarguments

  • Not all individuals in Nigeria experience a life of privilege; there is significant diversity in socioeconomic status, and many face hardships and limited resources.
  • The concept of hard work being valued may not be unique to Nigeria and can be considered a universal value taught in many cultures.
  • The experience of Nigerian expatriates in New Zealand can vary widely; some may find it easier to integrate than others, depending on various factors such as their personal background, community support, and local attitudes towards diversity.
  • The narrative may overgeneralize the experiences of Black students or individuals in New Zealand, as each person's experience with fitting in and facing challenges can be highly individual and context-dependent.
  • The assumption that moving to a new country is always a test of resilience and adaptability might not account for tho ...

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E485 Israel Adesanya

Ayahuasca Experiences

Interested but Concerned About Effect on Fighting

Adesanya discusses the potential mental benefits and risks associated with the use of plant medicines such as ayahuasca. He acknowledges that while substances like these can provide clarity, there’s also a risk that they could alter his mindset in ways that might affect his performance in the fighting ring.

Plant medicine provides clarity but risks altering mindset

Though not explicitly mentioning ayahuasca, Adesanya talks about his experience with microdosing psilocybin. He describes using it before a fight and how it led him to deep personal introspection—questioning his emotions and conversing with his younger self.

...

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Ayahuasca Experiences

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Adesanya is a professional mixed martial artist from Nigeria who competes in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He is known for his striking skills and has held the UFC middleweight championship. Adesanya has gained popularity for his unique fighting style and charismatic personality both inside and outside the octagon.
  • Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew traditionally used by indigenous tribes in the Amazon for spiritual and healing purposes. It contains DMT, a powerful hallucinogenic compound, and MAO inhibitors that allow DMT to be orally active. The effects of ayahuasca can vary but often include vivid visual and auditory hallucinations, introspection, emotional release, and spiritual insights. Users may experience a range of sensations, from euphoria to discomfort, and the experience is often described as intense and profound.
  • Microdosing psilocybin involves taking very small, sub-perceptual doses of the psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms. This practice is believed to potentially enhance mood, creativity, and focus without inducing hallucinations or intense psychedelic effects. People who microdose psilocybin often report subtle changes in perception, mood, and cognition, which can vary depending on the individual and the dosage used. Research on microdosing is ongoing, with some studies suggesting possible benefits for mental health and well-being.
  • Plant medicines like ayahuasca can lead to profound mental experiences that may affect an ...

Counterarguments

  • While plant medicines may offer clarity for some, the evidence is largely anecdotal, and there is a lack of rigorous scientific research to support the claim that they can provide mental clarity or benefit everyone in the same way.
  • Microdosing psilocybin and its effects are still not fully understood, and while Adesanya reports personal introspection, others might not have the same experience or could experience negative effects.
  • The interest in trying ayahuasca must be balanced with the understanding that it is a powerful psychoactive substance that can have unpredictable effects on mental health, which could be detrimental to a professional athlete's performance and well-being.
  • There is a potential for bias in Adesanya's account of his experiences and intentions, as personal experiences are ...

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