Dive into the complete episode list for The AlphaMind Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Pub. Date
Title
Duration
05 Feb 2022
#84 Tom Canfield - Letting Go
01:00:58
Contrary to common belief, it is not market knowledge, analytical skills, or some special system or secret indicator that are the key differentiators of success in financial markets. The true differentiator is the ability to ‘Let Go’, and the capability to sustain a ‘Letting Go’ mindset at all times.
This week, Tom Canfield, a veteran US based Retail Trader, returns to the AlphaMind Podcast to discuss his ongoing journey of ‘Letting Go’ as a trader, and his battle to get there.
Chapter on the Audio Podcast
(00:00) Introduction (02:37) The Conversation Starts. (04:43) Tom’s 2021 Heart Attack. (07:49) That 2021 Podcast, my 25-year journey, evolving and learning to ‘Let Go’. (09:25) 55 years of hard-wired personality traits that don’t want to give up the fight. (10:25) You fall down, you get up, success is a function of resilience and failure. (13:52) The market is always evolving, and we must learn how to evolve with it. (17:15) People must find a way to break the stress in a productive way. (19:20) Rewinding to Tom’s massive drawdown and dealing with the angst. (22:30) Becoming acutely aware of my stress and the beginning of understanding myself. (23:48) The ‘Gun to My Head’ of having to make income from my trading. (27:38) Building a safety net for underperforming periods, to ease the stress and pressure. (29:38) It’s OK not to trade if the environment is difficult. (30:15) Trading is not as it is portrayed on Twitter. (33:00) I’m a feel-trader, feel trading is tough to teach. (34:10) There is not one right-way to do it, there are multiple nuanced approaches. (37:25) The challenging now is how to do this without letting it own me. (42:20) Awareness of your stress profile. – Start from a view that stress is part of it. (44:37) The challenge of doing the job alone: The loneliness of the job gets to you. (50:30) You got to really ‘Let Go’ (53:50) Want less, expect less, experience more. (55:53) The mental side of the game is everything, once you learn the basics.
You can follow Tom on his excellent Twitter Feed @canny4
AlphaMind Services Weaponizing the Trader's Mind - A Powerful Group Coaching Programme: Find out more. One-to-One Trader Performance Coaching: Find out more
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor The Society of Technical Analysts: https://www.technicalanalysts.com/ Receive a 10% discount on their world-beating Technical Analysis Home Study Course, or Technical Analysis Home Study Course + Diploma Programme: Details
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AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
20 Feb 2022
#85 Sources of Trading Edge
00:55:03
When it comes to trading, finding your trading edge and learning how to sharpen your trading edge, are what ultimately define whether you succeed or fail.
We believe there are 3 main sources of edge for traders, and that these 3 edges support each other to make each edge more potent and powerful. Developing trading mastery however requires the combining of the edges into one singular sustainable practice that is unique to the trader and which powers their success in the complex, uncertain and challenging situations they face.
In this episode, AlphaMind podcast hosts Steve and Mark discuss this topic and illuminate for listeners how these 3 sources of edge are so vital to success and survival in financial markets.
AlphaMind Services Weaponizing the Trader's Mind - A Powerful Group Coaching Programme: Find out more. One-to-One Trader Performance Coaching: Find out more
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor The Society of Technical Analysts: https://www.technicalanalysts.com/ Receive a 10% discount on their world-beating Technical Analysis Home Study Course, or Technical Analysis Home Study Course + Diploma Programme: Details
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
26 Feb 2022
#86 Sam North - What is it that Successful Traders do Differently to Succeed?
01:01:02
Sam North both trades for himself and mentors’ other traders for eToro, the world’s largest social trading and multi-asset brokerage company, where he is their trading school lead.
In this great chat with the AlphaMind Podcast, Sam went deep into what it takes to succeed as a new trader, shared his reflections on patterns common to those he sees who succeed, and opens up about mistakes he witnesses which cause so many to fail.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor The Society of Technical Analysts: https://www.technicalanalysts.com/ Receive a 10% discount on their world-beating Technical Analysis Home Study Course, or Technical Analysis Home Study Course + Diploma Programme: Details
AlphaMind Services Weaponizing the Trader's Mind - A Powerful Group Coaching Programme: Find out more. One-to-One Trader Performance Coaching: Find out more
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
19 Mar 2022
#87 DeFi Panel of Experts: The Crypto Revolution Explored
01:19:32
For anyone 30 or younger, the world of DeFi (Decentralised Finance) is their world. Some in their 30s are clued up, but to most, DeFi and the world of Cryptocurrencies is something of a mystery. To those over 40, DeFi is largely an alien and murky world, difficult to navigate let alone to even comprehend.
In this episode of the AlphaMind podcast show hosts Mark Randell and Steven Goldstein, both far older than is healthy and a long way past the wrong side of 50, facilitate a panel of Defi and Crypto experts, who can speak to the ages, and bridge the gap between conventional trading and crypto markets, to help you start to make more sense of ‘The Defi Revolution’.
Our panelists are:
· Paul Gordon, a former broker and derivatives trader, who co-founded Coinscrum, which hosts meetings and talks on all things Crypto. TwitterLinkedin
· Glen Goodman, a former BBC and ITV news reporter, turned retail equity trader, then crypto trader, and authored the best-selling book ‘The Crypto Trader’. Twitter, Webpage
· Matt Aaron, project lead for Uniwhales, a DeFi analytics community, a crypto podcast host, and trader/investor in Defi and Crypto projects and markets. Twitter, LinkedIn
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor The Society of Technical Analysts: https://www.technicalanalysts.com/ Receive a 10% discount on their world-beating Technical Analysis Home Study Course, or Technical Analysis Home Study Course + Diploma Programme: Details
AlphaMind Services Weaponizing the Trader's Mind - A Powerful Group Coaching Programme: Find out more. One-to-One Trader Performance Coaching: Find out more
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
04 Apr 2022
#88 Winning by ‘Learning to Fail Well’
01:02:01
The trader and author of the book ‘Phantom of the Pit’ Art Simpson’s said of trading, ‘The Best Loser is the Long-Term Winner’.
Trading like poker, and many games entails losing and failing often, many of the greats of trading will tell how failure and being able to cope with failure, lie at the core to success. In this episode of the AlphaMind podcast, we discuss the 3 ‘Fs’ of Fear, Frustration and Failure, and how success requires learning ‘how to cope with failure, since failure is such a big part of trading success.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor The Society of Technical Analysts: https://www.technicalanalysts.com/ Receive a 10% discount on their world-beating Technical Analysis Home Study Course, or Technical Analysis Home Study Course + Diploma Programme: Details
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
23 Apr 2022
#89 Garth Mackenzie - What Drives Trading Success?
01:04:05
In this episode, we discuss with Garth Mackenzie, what he feels drives trading success, what drives his trading success, and what is it about his approach which has contributed to his success thus far.
Garth has been trading for over 20 years, however Garth admits the journey was anything but smooth, and despite some early successes, he found that the market was as adept in taking away, as it was in giving.
In the years since his early trading days, Garth has gone on to build a thriving trading practice, putting both his own money and institutional money to work in the markets.
In addition to being a trader, Garth is one of the most genuine and honest Trader Educators out there, providing excellent trading education services for the wider trading community through his ‘Trader’s Corner’ service and his ‘Talking with Traders’ podcast.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor The Society of Technical Analysts: bit.ly/3KaCnil Offer: Receive a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
16 May 2022
#90 Linda Raschke: Trading and ‘The Power of The Mind’
01:31:59
Linda Raschke is one of those traders who is quoted often by other traders. That gives you a sense of the respect and regard with which she is held in the trading world.
Linda started trading since the early 1980s, and after a tough introduction to the world of trading, went on to achieve great success and attained notoriety in the trading world after she was featured in one of the early Market Wizards books.
Recently Linda wrote ‘Trading Sardines, Lessons in the Markets from a Lifelong Trader’, a brilliant and high entertaining recap of her trading journey, where she shares great advice, valuable reflections, and a fair dash of humour, which really captures her zest for life.
In this interview, you can hear how Linda's incredibly deep passion for trading, markets, and how to overcome the mental challenges which make success in this career so elusive and challenging, and we were delighted that she was willing to discuss this so deeply on the AlphaMind Podcast.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor1: TradeStation Global: TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
TradeStation®, EasyLanguage® and the other company trademarks in the TradeStation platform are owned by TradeStation Technologies, Inc., a technology research and development company affiliated with TradeStation International Ltd. At present, the TradeStation Global product is not available to EU residents.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor2: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the STAs world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
29 May 2022
#91 Oliver Kell - US Trading Champion 2020: The Journey to Trading Mastery
01:10:23
OIiver Kell won the 2020 US stock trading champion with an astonishing return of 941%, almost double the return of the second-place competitor. However, there is a lot more to Oliver than just great trading, his success is born of a deep humility and a huge respect for risk and the market. And as you listen to him, you may be surprised to notice how his process and success is built upon a foundation of high-risk aversion allied to a deep passion for what he does.
In this episode Oliver opens about his trading, his background and what he feels it takes to achieve mastery in trading. Oliver is a great advert for the small retail trader taking on the Wall Street giants and coming out on top.
You can find out more about Oliver, including an excellent book he has written called ‘Victory in Stock Trading’ where he shares some of his strategies, developed through trial and error over more than a decade at https://www.kelltrading.com, and can follow him on Twitter at https://twitter.com/1charts6
The AlphaMind Podcast Sponsoring Partners:
TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
TradeStation®, EasyLanguage® and the other company trademarks in the TradeStation platform are owned by TradeStation Technologies, Inc., a technology research and development company affiliated with TradeStation International Ltd. At present, the TradeStation Global product is not available to EU residents.
The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA) provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
11 Jun 2022
#92 Peter Castle - The Zen Trader: How Ancient Wisdom Can Help You Master Your Mind and the Markets.
01:14:09
Peter Castle started trading in 1995. Whilst going through the process of learning trading and listening to many of the great trainers and teachers of trading, he noticed how many of themes focused on lessons that had a spiritual component. He realised how trading the markets can push you to the edge of desperation, which then impacts you mentally and can lead you into downward spiral of negativity that manifests poor performance and eventually mental burn out.
Peter started to incorporate some of the teaching of his learnings from Buddhism, into a mental process which helped him to cope better with demands placed on him as a trader. This was to have a hugely positive impact on how he managed himself in markets, how he processed information and how he made trading decisions. Peter has now shared his reflections on this journey in a new book ‘The Zen Trader: How Ancient Wisdom Can Help You Master Your Mind and the Markets’
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation Global TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
TradeStation®, EasyLanguage® and the other company trademarks in the TradeStation platform are owned by TradeStation Technologies, Inc., a technology research and development company affiliated with TradeStation International Ltd. At present, the TradeStation Global product is not available to EU residents.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
06 Jul 2022
#93 Ben Aldridge: Becoming Comfortable Being Uncomfortable
01:00:52
What makes you feel uncomfortable? How do you cope with difficult situations which make you feel uncomfortable? Do you shy away from these situations or avoid making tough decisions because of your discomfort? Has it held you back in your trading, in life, and does it continue to hold you back?
Being able to cope with anxiety inducing situations that make us feel uncomfortable lies at the very epicentre of many of the biggest challenges in life. Whether taking high stakes trading and investment decisions in volatile markets, to leading and managing teams and businesses, working in sales, public speaking, going for interviews, taking exams, through to having conversations with people you love and care about, and handling yourself in social situations.
Ben Aldridge, has written some excellent, highly entertaining, and deeply through-provoking books on these themes, including the superb ‘How to Be Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable’. We were delighted to have Ben as a guest on the AlphaMind Podcast, talking about this fascinating topic and sharing his thoughts on a range of topics including developing a Stoic Philosophy to life, Cultivating a Growth Mindset, and Dealing with Embarrassment and Shame.
This is a terrific interview with an interesting and informed guest, where we discuss this topic which is integral in every sense to developing high performance in trading, investing and market related activities.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation Global TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal. At present, the TradeStation Global product is not available to EU residents.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
18 Jul 2022
#94 Steven Goldstein: 35 Years of Trading Lessons Learned
01:24:24
Trading is a job which tests everyone who participates in it to the max. Volatile markets, rapidly shifting trading environments, strong bull markets followed by violent bear markets, fortunes made over years then lost in hours. The markets toy with traders’ emotions and their sense of self-worth, as they come to terms with just how much skill and ability is needed to succeed over the long-term in a challenge that people vastly underestimate.
In this episode AlphaMind co-host Mark Randall interviews fellow co-host Steven Goldstein about the lessons he has learned in over 35 years in Financial Markets, working as a professional trader and coaching traders, both professional and retail.
Mark asks Steven about his journey from assistant on the trading desk of a Japanese bank in the 1980s. to working on the Proprietary desk of the Swiss Investment Bank Credit Suisse in the 1990s, and his time as a trader at the banking arm of American Express in the 2000s. They also discuss his subsequent decision to starting to work as a coach who helps traders develop their psychological abilities.
Steven, who coaches some of the world’s leading professional traders at some of the world’s biggest Hedge Funds, as well as many smaller private and retail traders across all markets and trading styles, shares fascinating insights which listeners will learn so much from.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation Global TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
09 Aug 2022
#95 Robert Carver: Trading, Trading Wisdom, and Trading Systems
00:46:52
Listening to Robert Carver will make you a wiser trader. Period.
Robert Carver is a treasure trove of trading wisdom, knowledge, know-how and first-hand experience. He has a strong background in economics, has worked as a trader at a leading investment bank and at a $30 billion hedge fund where he ran a major chunk of their trading capital for several years. In addition, Robert has built his own trading systems, traded, and still does trade, his own money, and has thought intensely about trading having written at length, and taught about, trading and trading systems.
In this chat, we delve deep into Robert’s reflections about the challenge of trading both systematically and discretionally. In his own self-deprecating manner, Robert shares his thoughts on the common errors traders make, many which he admits he help himself made. We also explore aspects of trading behaviour, constructing powerful and robust trading systems both semi-discretionary and fully automated, the importance of trading risk management, use of leverage in trading, and understanding the importance of doing the un-sexy work which is so crucial to trading success.
This chat will fascinate, intrigue, and educate you.
Leveraged Trading: A professional approach to trading FX, stocks on margin, CFDs, spread bets and futures for all traders.
Systematic Trading: A unique new method for designing trading and investing systems.
Smart Portfolios: A practical guide to building and maintaining intelligent investment portfolios
Due for release in April 2023
Advanced Futures Trading Strategies: 30 Fully tested strategies for multiple trading styles and timeframes.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation Global TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link:
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
Tom is someone who has faced his own battles to become a successful trader, and like many he has gone through that cycle of try, learn, fail, try again and eventually succeed.
Tom is passionate about trading, as you will hear, and also loves helping others to learn. He runs an excellent telegram channel, you can find out more about this on TraderTom.com, which has over 15,000 members.
This is a terrific interview which will educate, fascinate, and challenge you.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation Global TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
14 Sep 2022
#97 Jason Shapiro: 'The Contrarian' Answers Listeners Questions
01:18:39
Jason Shapiro returns to the AlphaMind podcast a year after his first episode proved to be one of our most popular to date. Jason featured in Jack Schwager’s brilliant ‘Unknown Market Wizard’ where he was known as ‘The Contrarian’, which tells all you need to know about his approach and style.
In this episode, Jason answers a series of questions submitted by AlphaMind Podcast listeners, and expands upon his trading approach, his views about trading and markets, and shares more details of how he uses the ‘Commitment of Traders’ report.
Though Jason’s approach is firmly welded to his contrarian philosophy this episode covers a range of topics and themes which would have enormous value to traders of all styles, approaches, and philosophies.
Jason also talks about the Crowded Market Report, a Futures trading education website , and a community of traders which focuses on and supports traders in developing a contrarian approach. - A portion of proceeds from the Crowded Market Report are donated to the Charlestown Early Learning Center, a non-profit organization, to provide a high quality, affordable educational program for 3, 4, and 5 year old children in the local community. - You can learn more Jason at the Crowded Market report at this link: https://www.crowdedmarketreport.com/about/
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation Global TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
AlphaMind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
13 May 2019
#1 An Introduction to AlphaMind: The Mental Skills of trading
00:52:29
The first episode of the AlphaMind podcast is co-hosted by Steven Goldstein and Mark Randall.
Steven and Mark are market veterans with over 7 decades of experiences between them:
Steven works as a coach helping traders and portfolio managers develop and enhance the 'Inner Game' aspects of risk performance. Before becoming a coach in 2009, Steven worked as a trader in market-making and proprietary trading roles at investment banks such as Credit Suisse, Commerzbank and American Express Bank.
Mark has worked as an oil derivatives broker since the early 1980s, starting on the original LIFFE floor, and spending over 30 years working for Natwest, Greenwich Capital and RBS. Mark was an early adopter and instigator of Mindfulness techniques to help improve and optimise performance in high pressure environments.
In this inaugural episode, Mark and Steven jointly discuss and explore:
The concept of AlphaMind and how people need to work on developing the vital behavioural, psychological, and mental aspects of risk performance.
The idea of Self and Presence when working in Financial Market roles.
The development of 'Mind' skills to help increase productivity and improve performance. What role intuition plays in making big decisions and when it should be minimized
'Inner Game', and how we can become more optimal to improve how we are when engaged in trading.
Aspects of 'Financial Market' behaviour and introduce the concept of 'Financial Market 'Murmuration'.
The connection of mindset, inner game and performance through the context of elite sports performance.
The battle between yourself and your ego, and the tendency to 'beat-up' upon yourself and how this undermines performance.
How alcohol, caffeine, and poor sleep can impact the quality of performance.
Time of day factors and our ability to make optimal decisions.
and many other aspects.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
03 Oct 2022
#98 Tom Basso: Market Wizard's Mr Serenity
01:19:33
Tom Basso: Market Wizards Mr Serenity
Tom Basso first came to prominence when he was featured in Jack Schwager’s second Market Wizards book “New Market Wizards”. His chapter is called Mr Serenity. In the introduction to the interview with Tom, Jack, made a point of saying, that “although Tom’s results are significantly better than the industry average, they were ‘hardly extraordinary’. And yet, ‘Jack says, “in an important sense, Basso is perhaps the most successful, trader I have ever interviewed.” This success Jack Schwager referred to, stemmed from Tom’s ability to make money, and yet remain calm, centred and completely balanced, living the life he wanted to live, and doing the things he wanted to do, without it being dictated by the market, or his ego’s response to the market.
As you will hear in this interview, very little has changed. Tom has achieved extraordinary success, both financially, and in the way he has lived his life. And, if we are honest, trying to get both of these to happen together is an extraordinary feat.
You will enjoy this interview and will learn so much that is important to consider, when taking and managing risk, and remaining in control, in a way which allows you to ‘enjoy the ride’.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation Global TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
24 Oct 2022
#99 Sven Fuhrmann: Energy/Power Trader and Hedge Fund Manager
00:57:55
Sven Fuhrman: Hedge Fund Manager and Energy Trader
The dramatic context of the past couple of years, and the consequences of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have awoken many traders and investors to the significance and importance of the Power and Energy Markets.
This corner of the international markets remains relatively obscure and poorly understood, despite them playing a far more tangible and significant role in all our lives, than virtually any other market.
On this week’s AlphaMind podcast, we talk with a trader who has been at the centre of the Power and Energy markets for almost 2 decades, and who now runs one of the few Hedge Funds, which specialises exclusively on these areas.
This podcast will provide you with some insight into these markets, and how differently they operate to other markets. Yet, at the same time, there are many lessons to be drawn which are applicable to trading in all markets, particularly regarding how to self-manage in the face of volatility, uncertainty and the heightened emotions that they bring.
Sven, himself, has spent many years working at leading firms within the energy trading industry, such as Vitol, and EDF, and is now Co-Owner of Auricor, a leading Hedge Fund, based in Zug in Switzerland. You can learn more about Auricor, and their work, at https://auricor-energyfund.com/ _______________________________________________________________________________________
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation Global TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
16 Nov 2022
#100 Jeff Boccaccio: From IT Consultant to Trader and System Builder
01:34:08
In this episode, we talk in-depth with Jeff Boccaccio about his journey from the non-trading world, to the world of trading his own money. Jeff was initially was an IT consultant.
This a conversation which covers from a wide and varied range which will be hugely valuable and hopefully inspiring, to traders of all types.
Jeff also shares valuable insights and advice about trading, the reality of how long it takes to learn and develop the skills to become a successful trade, and about the emotional challenges of trading and investing.
In addition, Jeff talks about the importance of having an additional source of income, so that the need for wins, does not force traders to act in ways which work against success. Jeff, himself, supplements his income through his business with his partner, ‘R-Factory’, which builds systems, indicators and provides training and consulting for traders.
Jeff has become involved with the Society of Technical Analysts (The STA), and is now on the board of the STA.
You can find out about R-Factory and some of the courses and products Jeff talked about on https://rfactory.io/.
Also Jeff mentioned the Society of Technical Analysts 50th Anniversary book, ‘Striking Gold’, this can be viewed and downloaded at this link
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation Global TradeStation Global is a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Trade Stocks, Forex, Futures and Micro e-Mini Futures from one account. Leverage professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation Global there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
30 Nov 2022
#101 Matt 'PAX' Kenah: A Futures Trader's Story - Part 1
00:44:59
Matt “Pax” Kenah: The Life of a Futures Trader – Part 1
Matt “Pax” Kenah is a passionate, straight shooting, former Chicago Floor Trader who still trades and now also mentor traders. In this fascinating interview ,he shares his story, his journey and experiences, his success and mistakes, his highs and lows.
Matt opens up fully about the realities of trading, the emotional challenges, the steps he, and others, what he considers trading success to be, and what people need to do to get there.
This is a fascinating interview that goes to places, few interviews go, providing a richness and depth, of insight on the realities of what it takes to succeed at trading, that you will rarely hear.
We have split Matt’s interview into 2 parts. In this part 1 Matt, tells his story, no holds barred.
You can find out more about Matt and the work he does to support and mentor traders at the PAX group at https://thepaxgroup.org/
You can follow Matt on Twitter at https://twitter.com/paxtrader777 _______________________________________________________________________________________
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation International
TradeStation International offers users access to the outstanding TradeStation Global platform, a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Traders can leverage TradeSatation's superb professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA):
The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
13 Dec 2022
#102 Matt 'PAX' Kenah: A Futures Trader's Story - Part 2
00:47:23
In this 2nd part of this outstanding chat with former Chicago pit trader Matt ‘Pax’ Kenah. Matt takes us to a deeper exploration of his story.
We discuss Matt's personal battles, hiss loss caused by the collapse of MF global, the struggles with his self which followed this, and the rebuilding of his career.
We look at the steps Matt took, and the foundation blocks he built to come back and build a trading career for a second time around. Matt talks about the support of his wife, his religious faith, his faith in God, and ultimately how his rebuilt his faith in his self.
This is powerful conversation, where Matt talks openly and frankly about the challenges of trading, and the dark places trading takes people to. We discusses the mind games he, and others, play in order to survive the realities of trading, and how he takes care of himself.
We also explore the dangers of falling for the hype, and how this impacted him when he was 10% of the Nasdaq futures volume when ego took over, and the dangers this presents.
You can follow Matt on Twitter at https://twitter.com/paxtrader777 _______________________________________________________________________________________
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation International TradeStation International offers users access to the outstanding TradeStation Global platform, a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Traders can leverage TradeSatation's superb professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
10 Jan 2023
#103 Mark & Steve: Working With Your Ego in Trading
00:54:24
Trading legend Marty Schwartz aka Pitbull said, "the most important change in my trading career occurred when I learned to divorce my ego from the trade."
The ego gets a bad wrap in trading, and often seen as the enemy. But is this the right way to look at it?
The ego is very much part of us, part of who we are, part of our nature, our soul. How can it be the enemy? That makes us the enemy. And yet, often it feels like it is, with its ability to act in ways which are malicious and malign.
Learning to understand your ego, and how it works, may be a more productive way forward than trying to ignore it, or shut it down.
In this episode, we explore the ego, its impact on you and your trading, and how better to understand it, and work with it, rather than to fight yourself, with all the mental and physical costs that entails. _______________________________________________________________________________________
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation International TradeStation International offers users access to the outstanding TradeStation Global platform, a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Traders can leverage TradeSatation's superb professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA): The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
Alphamind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
24 Jan 2023
#104 Jonathan Baird: Macro Fundamentals and Trading
01:08:10
We're delighted to welcome back a friend of the show Jonathan Baird, an award-winning money manager and publisher of the Global Investment Letter, who speaks and writes about macro themes in markets based on this his many decades of experience in this area.
2022 was the year when having a handle on the macro-economic narrative was to prove hugely advantageous. Understanding the macro and building it into your read of the markets is vital for traders who wish to gain an edge in markets whilst seeking to insulate themselves from market shocks.
In this episode we talk about how to be more aware of these factors in markets, and how to combine and successfully fuse macro fundamental analysis, market valuation, technical analysis, and market sentiment into a coherent risk approach.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: TradeStation International
TradeStation International offers users access to the outstanding TradeStation Global platform, a multi-asset trading platform with access to international markets. Traders can leverage TradeSatation's superb professional-grade tools like RadarScreen®, The Matrix, and EasyLanguage® an intuitive coding language for traders.
With TradeStation there are no hidden price spreads - just transparent, low commissions. Click here to find out more and open an account.
TradeStation International Ltd is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) in the United Kingdom, acts as an Introducing Broker to Interactive Brokers (U.K.) Ltd. The firm does not provide investment advice or trading recommendations. Investment and trading involve risks, including possible loss of principal.
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA):
The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
AlphaMind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
07 Feb 2023
#105 Jacob Holm: The Evolution of a Trader
01:03:56
Jacob is a young trader from Denmark who is still going through the relative early stages of his trading career. As you will hear in this interview, Jacob has a wise head on young shoulders.
Jacob discovered a passion for investing, then trading, in his mid-teens. He has since dived into trading with gusto learning the basics of trading, developing his trading skills, learning technical analysis, developing systematic trading capabilities, reading influential writers on trading, in particular the works of Mark Douglas.
In addition, he worked on developing himself, learning and applying stoic attitudes, and gaining a sense of how markets work and how to best work with them, and the uncertainty that is part of their structure.
This is a terrific interview which gets into the early stage development of a trader, with someone still going through these early stage experiences. However, it will be of interest to traders at all levels, as they reflect on their own journey, and perhaps considers some of the ways they could have done it differently, in ways which are still impacting how they work.
Jacob, and his colleague at Statera Trading, also design and build automated trading EAs that performs various actions on the Metastock trading platform, that other traders can subscribe too.
You can find out more about Jacob, and his business Statera Trading at these links:
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA):
The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
AlphaMind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
21 Feb 2023
#106 Simon Mundie: Developing Psychological Flexibility
01:07:41
The world of sports and high-performance offer so many great metaphors and analogies for trading, where the mind, and the noises in our head, can become the blocker to the potential people possess.
In this episode we talk with Simon Mundie, a leading sports journalist, radio and tv broadcaster, author, and coach. Simon hosted a superb podcast featured on the BBC, which looks at the lessons people can learn from the world of sports and high performance. On the podcast, Simon has interviewed top athletes, tennis greats, Olympic champions, coaches, and outstanding performers from across the world of elite sports.
Simon shares his thought about how elite performers deal with the pressure which enables them to excel in key moments. He tells us about how high performers manage to develop the psychological flexibility to master the uncomfortable feelings, which are part of our human nature, and which have the propensity to disrupt their flow.
A key skill Simon talks about, is how people can channel their anxiety and fear, which is part of dealing with uncertainty of high performance, by accepting these feelings, welcoming them, and making space for them.
This fascinating chat explores a whole range of issues, from developing presence, getting into flow states, dealing with ego, letting-go, and focusing on process rather than being owned by the outcome.
You can find out more about Simon and his podcasts at https://www.simonmundie.com/ ___________________________________________________________________________________________
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA):
The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
AlphaMind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
14 Mar 2023
#107 A US Navy Seal Commander, A Mindfulness Expert, and Self-Compassion
01:26:12
The battle for success in trading, is not a battle fought in the market, on your trading screen, or in the dealing rooms of a major trading firm, it’s a battle which takes place in those few inches between your left ear, and the right one.
In this episode we talk with Jon MacAskill, a former US Navy Seal commander, and Will Schneider, a well-known Mindfulness Guru from New York, who together host ‘Men Talking Mindfulness’, a brilliant podcast series which brings together superb guests to talk about Mindfulness, and Healthy Mental Functioning, from a male perspective.
We explore with Jon and Will what Mindfulness means, how it so much more than a few 5 minutes sessions on an App, and how it empowers people to perform as a far higher level so that they can win that battle in the few inches between their ears.
This episode goes in-depth on a subject which is still largely seen as a new-age holistic practice, rather than an activity, which, when time, energy, and deliberate practice are spent on, can empower people to achieve significantly stronger performance, on a sustainable basis, whilst reducing stress, and promoting better personal well-being.
We also talk beyond mindfulness, on subject and themes connected to better mental well-being, and improved personal performance, and discuss the soft skills of high performance, which are ironically the hardest skills to master.
You can find out more about Jon and Will, and their brilliant podcast at the following links:
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
28 Mar 2023
#108 Cory Mitchell: Trading, The Intuitive Game
01:20:11
In this episode, we chat with Cory Mitchell, who has been a successful prop trader for some twenty years. Cory shares his reflections on the development of what it takes to deliver consistent and profitable trading results over a long period of time, and he offers some invaluable thoughts on trading and dealing with the challenges of making decisions in the moment and coping with those voices in our heads that can hold us back.
Cory started trading with a local prop firm in Canada, after graduating college two decades ago. Helping to pave the way for others in the trading world, he's written extensively on the subject, been a regular contributor on Investopedia and has also coached traders.
In this episode of the podcast, we discuss psychological aspects of trading and strategies that can be implemented to overcome such obstacles. His honest and powerful reflections on what it takes to sustain a successful career as a trader have resulted in an incredible interview with plenty of valuable information for all types of traders from any market.
You can find out more about Cory and his training and mentoring business for traders Trade That Swing at https://tradethatswing.com/
AlphaMind Podcast Sponsor: The Society of Technical Analysts (The STA):
The Society of Technical Analysts provide world beating technical analysis education programmes and offer outstanding membership services with regular talks and meetings. Their Home Study Course is based on the Diploma Programme they deliver to students at the London School of Economics and has been created by many of the leading minds in the field of technical analysis.
AlphaMind Podcast listeners can obtain a 10% discount on the Society of Technical Analysts world-beating Home Study Course at this link: bit.ly/3r3TawO
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
19 Apr 2023
#109 Ken Long: Fear & Greed in Trading
01:37:13
This week’s AlphaMind podcast episode on fear and greed in trading features a true expert on the subject - Dr. Ken Long. Though retired from the US Army after 25 years’ service where he attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, Ken is still actively teaching as an Associate Professor at US Army Command & General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He is currently supervising multiple master’s theses focused on applying AI to military decision making.
Ken's trading journey began in the 1990s when he started investing in mutual funds. Since then, he's become an exceptional big-picture thinker and tactical trader. He has also applied his love of trading, teaching, and inspiring others, by delivering a series of workshops for the Van Tharp Institute. But that's not all, Ken has also completed a Ph.D in Organisational Development, and teaches at several universities including Colorado Tech University and City University, Seattle.
Aside from being a teacher, student, and active trader, Ken is also a proud father of three, a husband, a martial artist, and youth football coach. But it's his insights on fear and greed in trading that share with you in this podcast. In our hour and a half interview, Ken shares his views, genius, and wisdom on the topic in a way that is sure to inspire and enlighten.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
13 Jun 2019
#2 Mental 'Edge' in Trading, with Mark Randall and Steven Goldstein
00:51:04
In this episode we jointly explore the subject of 'Mental Edge'.
This conversation covers a broad swathe of themes around the subject of 'Mental Edge' in trading, including:
Risk Intelligence and how thinking about 'edge' in terms of positive expectancy.
Poker, trading and having an 'edge'.
Walking away and getting 'closure', as an 'edge'.
Resetting and refreshing 'Self'. as an 'edge'.
The 'Trading Turtles', and 'Psychological Edge'.
Physical aspects of Performance: Sleep, Alcohol, Caffeine.
How caffeine increases anxiety, and alcohol dulls performance, to create a negative edge.
Time of day trading, decision-making and performance.
Military and Mindfulness 'mindfitness' to enhance decision-making, focus and attention.
'Mindfitness' as a tool for developing laser-like focus and greater presence.
Trading and the personal battle with 'self and ego'.
If you want to elevate your trading psychology, there is so much great wisdom shared in this conversation. We think you will really enjoy it.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
03 May 2023
#110 Radical Responsibility in Trading with Mandi Rafsanjani
01:09:53
In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of 'Radical Responsibility' with Mandi Rafsanjani, a performance coach who specializes in trading psychology.
Mandi defines Radical Responsibility as an extreme form of accountability, where one takes full ownership of their actions and the outcomes, even in the face of external events beyond their control.
Mandi first came across this concept while working with trading legend Linda Raschke, who demonstrated exceptional resilience and adaptability in dealing with setbacks - a common occurrence in the world of trading.
Inspired by Linda's approach, discusses with us how practicing Radical Responsibility can help traders develop the emotional fitness required to navigate the highs and lows of the market.
In this vibrant conversation, we explore the nuances of Radical Responsibility and its relevance to trading, and its connections to building self-awareness, developing a mindset for high performance trading, and reframing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth.
Whether you're a trader or not, the concept of Radical Responsibility has something to offer in terms of taking ownership of your life and achieving your goals. So join us as we explore this powerful mindset and how it can revolutionise your approach to trading.
And if you're interested in learning more about Mandi Rafsanjani and her Performance Coaching services, check out her website at these links:
You can also follow or connect with Mandi on Twitter @MPX_Trader
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
23 May 2023
#111 Reminiscences of a Day Trader with David Hale
01:14:15
In the enticing world of trading, where money, glory, and glamour beckon, millions are drawn each year, hoping to strike it rich. Yet, only a fraction ever truly succeed, and even those who do often emerge battered, bruised, and occasionally traumatized.
In this week's podcast, we have the privilege of speaking with someone who has traversed the unpredictable landscape of trading, enduring numerous ups and downs along the way. Meet David Hale, a seasoned proprietary trader with over two decades of experience. David's firsthand account is chronicled in his self-published book, 'Cash Rules: Reminiscences of a Prop Trader.' Unlike the glossy portrayal often associated with trading, David presents an unvarnished and honest perspective.
During our conversation, David delves into the dizzying heights of triumph and the heart-wrenching lows of failure, recounting tales of immense gains and devastating losses. He fearlessly explores the depths of despair and the arduous journey to recovery. Additionally, David generously shares his insights and experiences on how one can truly make money in the world of prop trading. His refreshingly candid book sets the tone for our conversation, where authenticity takes center stage.
David bravely acknowledges his own flaws and candidly discusses how they have often exacted a toll over the years. It's a rarity to encounter a trader willing to confront their weaknesses head-on. However, we all possess our own imperfections, and it is those who acknowledge and comprehend how these flaws impact their trading that tend to have a far greater chance of success.
If you're captivated by David's story, I encourage you to explore his book, 'Cash Rules: Reminiscences of a Prop Trader.' Available in both paperback and Kindle formats, it offers an insightful and thought-provoking read. To get your copy, simply visit this Amazon website link.
You can follow David on his Twitter Account at https://twitter.com/CREAMtrader
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
14 Jun 2023
#112 Applying Analysis in Trading: Insights from Former JP Morgan Trader Clive Ponsonby
01:08:01
Clive Ponsonby graduated from Cambridge University as a Mathematician and then ventured into the dynamic and unpredictable world of Spot FX trading in the 1990s. This move was unconventional for someone with a highly academic background, transitioning to an environment dominated by fast-paced, streetwise, and quick-witted traders, many of whom hailed from non-academic backgrounds.
Clive developed a deep passion for this wild world and quickly applied his own skills and abilities to excelling in this space. Over the next two decades, Clive thrived in FX trading, securing positions at some of the world's leading Investment Banks. His journey started at Bankers Trust, a renowned hub of trading talent in the 1980s and 1990s, followed by the Swiss Banking giant UBS, and finally culminating at JP Morgan, where he served as an Executive Director of FX trading until his departure from the banking world in 2018.
In this interview, Clive candidly shares his experiences as a trader, delving into the challenges of applying various types of analysis in the trading process. He also explores the essential mindset, behaviours, and attitudes necessary for effective analysis in trading, while expressing his passion for the exhilarating trading floor atmosphere, particularly during significant events like the monthly Non-Farm Payrolls.
Clive recounts some fascinating stories from across his career in major market-making roles, trading spot FX, forward FX, non-deliverable forwards, and rates products for various banks, including JP Morgan where he led a global team across three different time zones.
Clive still trades on his own account, he also provides outstanding regular research as a currency fellow at ‘Hedder’, where he contributes exceptional research as a currency fellow at 'Hedder,' providing high-quality analysis of currency markets. Hedder provide world-beating institutional-quality research which is available both to retail investors and high-end market, assisting them in making well-informed trading decisions.
You can find out more about Hedder and the research work he does there at this link.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
11 Jul 2023
#113 What The Market Needs From You, So It Can Win, and How You Can Fight Back
00:40:12
In this captivating podcast episode, Co-host Steven Goldstein delves into the intriguing world of trading and markets, offering insightful thoughts and reflections. Drawing from his extensive experience spanning nearly four decades, Steven explores what the markets truly need from you as a trader in order for it to emerge victorious, at the expense of you the trader.
Prepare to embark on a journey deep into the intricacies of the 'Inner Game' of trading. Steven's wealth of knowledge and expertise, acquired through his roles as a trader at the forefront of markets and as a performance coach working closely with traders from various market segments, enables him to provide a unique and enlightening perspective.
Throughout the episode, listeners gain exclusive access to Steven's valuable insights, shaped by his unwavering proximity to the pulse of markets, and which also provides us with a glimpse of some of the topics and themes, covered in his new book, 'Mastering the Mental Game of Trading', which will be released in January 2024.
Whether you're an experienced trader or someone fascinated by the intricate workings of financial markets, this episode promises to captivate your attention and offer a fresh understanding of the complex dynamics at play within traders, as they tackle the challenge of the markets.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
24 Jun 2019
#3 Growth Mindset in Trading - Developing a Mindset for Success
00:50:41
June 24, 2019
Steven Goldstein & Mark Randall
This episode of the AlphaMind podcast jointly explores the subject of 'Trading Mindset' through the lens of Carol Dweck's Growth Mindset philosophy.
This conversation covers a broad swathe of themes around the subject of 'Mindset' in trading, including:
How 'Growth Mindset' is linked to Success and Positive Psychology.
The 2 Mindsets, Growth and Fixed and how they playout in Trading.
How Successful traders demonstrate 'Growth Mindset's'.
Developing your Potential, Improving, growing as a risk-taker.
How Financial Markets tip people into Fixed Mindsets.
Becoming 'Stuck in a ruck' and moving out of that.
The Mindset needed for new traders, and the danger of chasing success.
Dealing with Setbacks.
Managing Self and Mindset through drawdowns and barren spells.
How you can help yourself develop and cultivate a Growth Mindset.
Examples of Traders in a Growth Mindset.
Fixed Mindset, Growth Mindset and Ego.
Setting your environment for a Growth Mindset.
So much great wisdom shared in this conversation. We think you will really enjoy it.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
01 Aug 2023
#114: Maria Iliffe-Wood: Creating an Empowering 'State of Mind' for Success and Happiness
01:04:32
Life, markets and trading, often tries to wear you down, challenging your confidence, and shattering your self-belief.
This week's guest on the AlphaMind Podcast takes us on a unique journey, deviating from our usual guests. Once you hear what she has to say, you'll hopefully recognise its relevance not only to your trading but also to much broader and deeper aspects of your work and life.
Maria Iliffe-Wood is a seasoned Executive Coach and specialist in Leadership Development. She is the author of two books, one aimed at coaches, focusing on developing their coaching presence, a vital skill in coaching and other high-performance fields. However, it's her recently published second book, 'A Caged Mind,' that inspired us to invite Maria to the AlphaMind podcast.
At AlphaMind, our primary focus is on individuals who take on the role of traders, and other challenging high performance roles, in the complex and uncertain worlds they inhabit, and how they can bring the best of themselves to their work and these challenges.
They face constant tests from the outside world which seek to expose their weaknesses, undermine their processes and behaviours, and attempting to hinder them from achieving the sort of high-performance they are potentially capable of. This battle largely happens within them, and this is where the real battle for success happens.
Maria's book delves into her own journey through life, grappling with her own challenges and life's trials. She shares her throughs and reflections on her travails, from the perspective of someone who has come through her difficult challenges, and emerged on the other side, a stronger, better and far happier person for it.
Maria's story is all of our stories, and thus encourages introspection about one's own life journey and the obstacles faced. Her experiences can be applied to you and your own work, enabling you to embrace to reflect upon how you can embrace you own innate wisdom and bring it to every aspect of your professional life.
The full title of Maria's book is: "A Caged Mind: How Spiritual Understanding Changed a Life". It can be purchased on Amazon at this link here.
To find out more about Maria, and her work supporting and helping writers, visit her website at https://www.iliffe-wood.co.uk/ ________________________________________________________________________________________________
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
23 Aug 2023
#115 Robert Van Eyden: Badass Trader - How to Trade Your Way To Riches
Robert is a true veteran of the markets with over three decades of invaluable experience in the dynamic world of markets, predominantly in his home country, South Africa.
Robert's remarkable journey has seen him excel as an analyst, trader, investor, lecturer, and wealth manager. Currently he serves as the CEO of IG Markets South Africa.
The central premise of "Badass Trader" revolves around the tantalizing notion that as barriers to entry for traders have diminished, the doors have been opened to a realm of untapped potential and virtually boundless earning capabilities for people keen to develop their own trading practice.
However, there is a twist, and that is that though it appears deceptively easy is, it is in truth, a hazardous journey fraught with challenges and dangers which very few are able to successfully navigate.
That is why Robert says, ‘trading is the hardest way to make easy money’.
Within the pages of "Badass Trader," Robert delves deep into the crux of the matter, dissecting the hurdles that obstruct the path to success. Drawing from his wealth of experience, he generously imparts the mindsets, mantras, and principles that can safeguard traders from the snares laid out by the unpredictable markets.
Tune in now to hear Robert talk about his own painful experiences in markets and what he learned from them, that inspired him to write ‘Badass Trader’.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
02 Jul 2019
#4 Military Grade Trading Mindfulness - Mark Randall Interview
01:05:13
In this episode Steven Goldstein interviews co-host Mark Randall.
Mark is a Mindulness practitioner and veteran of the Financial Markets.
Mark calls his approach ‘Mindfitness’. He describes it as 'Military Grade' mindfulness, basing it on the same principles of Mindfulness used by the US Special forces to help them be optimum when in training and on active service.
Mark is a former Futures and Options broker who use to run Natwest and Greenwich Capital Futures. His broking career lasted more than 3 decades and he was present on Day 1 of the London International Financial Futures Exchange (LIFFE) in 1982. Mark learned about Mindfulness decades before it become fashionable having been taught its basics by his martial arts teacher. He used this to be able to perform optimally in the extremely stressful environments he worked in.
Having left broking a few years ago, Mark developed his Mindfulness practice to help others, including leaders and managers in blue-chip corporations, and traders and investors in the financial markets, His programmes help them develop their own mindfulness skills to be able to perform at optimal levels in their work, to be more focused and resilient, and to be able to destress and gain clarity and calmness.
In this interview I explore Mark’s approach to Mindfulness and how people can use it to improve their working performance to be optimal in their trading and investing performance. Themes which this conversation explores include:
How Mindfitness helps people be more effective in their work.
How Mindfitness develops resilience and improves decision-making and self-control.
Mark’s journey from Broker to Mindfulness Coach and Facilitator.
Mindfitness and recovery, sleeps, relaxation, health and nutrition.
Emotional Intelligence: Improving Mental bandwidth and personal latency.
Getting past mindfulness and meditation as a fad.
Seeing the benefits of Mindfitness to Positive Performance.
Reducing Stress
Exploring Present Moment Awareness.
Calming internal negative self-talk.
Making space for clear thinking, creativity and seeing opportunity not threat.
Gaining Clarity.If you are interested to know more about Mark's services.
You can email Mark at ceo@markrandallconsultancy.com
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
13 Sep 2023
#116 Jonny Matthews: Ex Hedge Fund Trader - Lessons From a Lifetime at Trading's Top-Table
01:08:10
In today's episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Jonny Matthews, a true luminary in the finance industry boasting an impressive 28-year track record. Jonny's journey commenced during the legendary 'Liar's Poker' era at Salomon Brothers.
Jonny later ascended to prominence as a Portfolio Manager, adeptly overseeing up to $500 million in assets at the renowned hedge fund Brevan Howard. Before his tenure at Brevan Howard, Jonny honed his craft at Citibank, where he mastered equity derivatives trading , ultimately ascending to the role of Managing Director and leading a substantial trading team.
Remarkably, Jonny remains an active trader today, driven by his unwavering focus on macroeconomic trends and their profound influence on the markets.
In addition to his illustrious career, Jonny shares his profound market wisdom through his widely acclaimed newsletter, presently known as "Macroscope," soon to be rebranded as "Super Macro."
Join us as we embark on Jonny Matthews' extraordinary journey, gaining exclusive insights into the dynamic world of markets, trading, and the rollercoaster ride that is an integral part of a trader's life at the pinnacle of the financial world.
You can follow Jonny on his twitter feed @supermacro
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
01 Oct 2023
#117: Susquehanna's Todd Simkin: Great Traders Are Made, Not Born
01:24:14
Susquehanna International Group (SIG) is renowned as one of the world’s leading global proprietary trading firms, highly esteemed for its entrepreneurial ethos and meticulous analytical decision-making processes. Founded with a mindset rooted in entrepreneurship, SIG engages in trading various listed financial products and asset classes across the globe on a daily basis. The company attracts top-tier talent, employing both quantitative and discretionary approaches to maintain its position at the forefront of the industry.
They combine a profound understanding of specialized markets and traded products with a rigorous decision-making methodology grounded in probabilistic thinking, game theory, and a keen focus on signal detection and low-latency performance. This approach solidifies SIG's commitment to maintaining their eminent standing in the trading world.
In this episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Todd Simkin, currently the CEO of their Re-insurance business and a veteran at Susquehanna since 1997. Todd has played pivotal roles within the company, from being a trader to overseeing the day-to-day operations and even spearheading firm-wide education and trader development programmes.
Todd is possibly one of the pre-eminent minds in the world of trading, possessing a deep understanding of what contributes to the making of great traders. We were honoured that he was willing to converse with us and share with our audience some of his reflections and insights into what goes into the creation of successful traders.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
06 Jul 2019
#5 Steven Goldstein - Trader Performance Coaching
01:03:00
Steven Goldstein, one of the world’s leading trader performance coaches is interviewed by the podcast Co-Host Mark Randall
In this podcast Steven shares his journey from his early days Trading Rates and FX in a Japanese banks in London in the mid-80s, to his time working on the proprietary trading desk at Credit Suisse and later Commerzbank and American Express, before opting to start a career as a Performance coach working with Traders and Investment Professionals.
Steven shares his philosophy on how he helps traders to break past the self-imposed barriers we put which hold us back.
In this interview Steven discusses:
How coaching had helped him make a mid-career leap in trading performance.
What is ‘Inner Game’ performance coaching.
How does it differ from conventional forms of coaching?
How Non-Directive coaching powers performance.
Working with teams
How the more successful traders are more likely to ask for coaching.
Coaching as a tool to develop Growth Mindset.
Understanding the Systemic context of traders.
The limits of learning trading Psychology, versus working in your own personal Psychology.
How he helped traders recover from negative mindsets.
How Relationships, Belonging, Ego.
Why Mindset is everything and developing and Mindset for Alpha is vital.
Lessons from sports. – British cycling and micro improvements.
Embracing the complex.
To know more contact Steven – steven.goldstein@alpharcubed.com
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
19 Oct 2023
#118 Adam Birkett – Global Trading Lead Cargill OT: The Power of Non-Attachment
00:45:51
In this insightful episode, we sat down with Adam Birkett, the Global Trading Lead at Cargill Ocean Transportation division, which trades physical and derivative cargo, freight, and shipping products globally across all major markets, to delve into the profound concept of "The Power of Non-Attachment in Trading."
Adam has spent nearly his entire career at Cargill Ocean Transportation. He has been a trader, led a major trading team, worked in Risk Management, and then transitioned to becoming the lead for the trading side of the business, overseeing over 80 traders across multiple centres worldwide.
At the core of our conversation lies a fundamental principle: the ability of traders to distance themselves from ego-driven impulses and negative outcomes while making critical decisions amidst market turbulence. Adam eloquently describes how seasoned traders master the art of non-attachment, disentangling their identities from their trading activities, whilst also candidly acknowledging how challenging this is to do and sustain in real-time.
Adam discusses how, by detaching from ego-based desires and fears of negative outcomes, traders can achieve greater mental clarity and emotional equilibrium. This enables them to navigate the unpredictable waters of the market with a calmer, more rational mindset. Adam emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's trading process and not succumbing to impulsive reactions to market fluctuations and unfavourable outcomes.
In this enlightening chat, Adam illustrates his views with real-world examples from his extensive experience, speaks candidly about his own humbling episodes in his career, and shares some insights into the work they do at Cargill to aid better decision-making and performance across their highly successful business.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
08 Nov 2023
#119 JTrader: What It Takes to Succeed in Trading
00:56:33
Welcome to the AlphaMind podcast, where we delve deep into the world of trading with the seasoned trader and trading educator Joseph Gasperoni, more widely known as Jtrader.
Join us as we journey to San Marino in the heart of Italy, where Joseph runs a highly acclaimed trader training academy. In this episode, we discuss and explore the secrets to success in trading, unraveling the challenge to what it take to achieve success in the financial markets.
JTrader, known for his wealth of experience as a trader has been a the guiding light to many aspiring traders who seek to learn and develop their trading skills.
During our captivating conversation, we explore the mindset, discipline, and strategies that set successful traders apart from the crowd.
From risk management to market analysis, Joseph shares his invaluable wisdom, providing listeners with a unique opportunity to tap into the mind of someone who has helped to many aspiring traders.
You can learn more about JTrader and his JTrader Academy at this link: https://jtrader.co/
You can also find out about JTrader's USA tour next April and May at this link: https://cf2.jtrader.co/lp2
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
29 Nov 2023
#120 Louisa Nicola: The Synergy of Fitness, Nutrition, Wellness, and Trading Mastery
00:52:41
It is all to easy to think the answer to success in trading solely hinges on top-tier analysis and the application of sophisticated trading approaches and systems. However, overlooking the essential factor of nurturing and optimising the person doing the analysis and applying their trading decisions within the volatile and uncertain context of markets is a critical oversight.
This week we tackled this topic with Louisa Nicola, a renowned neurophysiologist and human performance coach, who is a visionary in the realm of optimising high performance in trading, investing and business.
During the interview, Louisa emphasised the symbiotic relationship between physical well-being and cognitive performance. She articulated how nutrition, good quality sleep, and physical exercise fuels not only the body but also the mind, enhancing decision-making abilities, and the vital mental resilience crucial for navigating the dynamic and uncertain landscape of trading.
Louisa's insights should inspire and empower you to adopt a comprehensive approach to your own lives, acknowledging the profound impact of wellness on your success in your work as a trader and beyond.
Louisa is the founder and head performance advisor of Neuro Athletics - a human performance coaching firm that boasts the highest performing athletes and executives in the world. Neuro Athletics brings science based solutions to elite performers who want to perform at their peak.
You can find out more about Louisa, her business, her podcast and social media links at this link.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
13 Jul 2019
#6 Prop Trading & Market Making
00:43:59
This week’s episode of the AlphaMind Podcast sees co-host Steven Goldstein musing over a webinar he gave to a group of Students from some of China’s Top universities.
The students are preparing their applications for US graduate programmes and were keen to explore more about the world of Interest Rate Trading,
Originally, we were aiming to record the webinar and release it directly as a podcast. Unfortunately, the sound quality was not strong enough. Instead in this episode, Steven shares his responses to the questions from the students. These covered a wide range of topics which will be of interest to new as well as seasoned traders.
Questions asked include:
What is the difference between a Market-Maker and a Proprietary Trader?
Do traders at hedge funds also do Market-Making?
Do Market-Makers just make Bid-Offer spread, or do they also take risk?
What is the role of a Salesperson? Why can’t Market-Makers act as Salespeople?
What criteria do clients consider, before deciding to trade with a Bank?
If clients get good prices from traders, does that mean they will find it harder to make money?
What are the different Trading styles used by traders?
Is being in an analyst or research role dull?
Is there too much Maths in investment banks?
How do traders stay within the rules needed to execute effectively?
What is the career path like for traders? Do you have any advice to students going for interviews?
Thank you to Jing Liu for arranging the webinar. Jing coaches college students in china through the graduate application process.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
19 Dec 2023
#121 Jason Shapiro: The Ultimate Contrarian Trader is Back
01:21:05
In this compelling episode of the AlphaMind Podcast, we immerse ourselves in the captivating realm of 'contrarian trading' with the remarkable Jason Shapiro, renowned as 'the contrarian' in Jack Schwager's "Unknown Market Wizards." Shapiro's adeptness in mastering the art of contrarian trading challenges the very core of many mainstream trading ideologies.
This episode marks Jason's third appearance on the AlphaMind podcast, each visit sparking some fascinating feedback and gratitude from our listeners. Once again, Jason generously shares insights into his distinctive trading philosophy, shedding light on the nuanced approach that sets him apart in the trading landscape.
Listeners, whether novices or seasoned traders, will discover invaluable guidance from Shapiro: courageously embrace discomfort, glean wisdom from setbacks, and cultivate the bravery to adopt a contrarian stance when your analysis and process justify it. Join us as we delve into the mind of this extraordinary trader whose unconventional strategies continuously redefine the dynamics of the trading arena.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
10 Jan 2024
#122 Mark Randall: Setting your Trading Edge for 2024
00:54:23
AlphaMind Podcast co-host Mark Randall reflects on insights gained from our podcast guests that he considers vital for traders as they look forward to 2024.
With an illustrious career spanning over four decades in the financial markets, Mark initiated his journey as one of the pioneering traders on the LIFFE London Futures Exchange. Over time, he transitioned into pivotal roles, spearheading broking and sales divisions at major investment banks, lending him a wealth of experience and expertise in the field.
Mark's reflections on our podcast discussions shed light on indispensable lessons for traders as they gear up for the challenges and opportunities of 2024.
You can also hear this episode on our Youtube Channel at this link: https://bit.ly/3J54QWx
Sponsors: Society of Technical Analysis: https://bit.ly/3KaCnil AlphaMind listeners can obtain a GBP100 Discount (Or local currency equivalent) the STA’s world beating Technical Analysis ‘Home Study Course’ and ‘Home Study Course with Diploma’. - Details https://bit.ly/STA_Discount
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
20 Jul 2019
#7 FX Trader Mark Hutchinson Interview : Growth Mindset in Action
01:06:35
Mark Hutchinson is an outstanding FX Trader who has achieved great success over the past few years.
In this excellent interview, Mark shares his journey into trading with AlphaMind co-hosts Steven Goldstein and Mark Randall.
Mark talks about the struggle of the early years, the trial and error processes, his dyslexia, and the learning process he went through over 4 ½ years before finally starting to succeed.
Mark’s passion for trading shines through in this interview, a passion he has also turned into a very successful mentoring and training business, Falcon FX, with over a thousand members across the world.
This interview is a great discussion on topics to vital to trading success, including:
The importance of having a great process.
Minimising the impact of money and how money creates limiting beliefs.
The importance of forecasting and scenario planning around these forecasts.
How Mark's engineering background and mindset support his trading.
The role of randomness in trading and managing within sequential randomness.
Walking away from bad situations and resetting.
Characteristic of those who become successful.
The importance of having the right mindset.
The error of rushing to make money too quickly.
How ego can kill performance.
Learning to see trading as a probability game.
How Growth Mindset plays out in trading.
The importance of Self-Management.
Dealing with losses and setback.
Retail trading versus institutional trading, and analyst v trader.
Developing a bulletproof mindset.
The role of the subconscious in trading.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
31 Jan 2024
#123 Steven Goldstein: New Book - Mastering the Mental Game of Trading
00:46:21
AlphaMind Podcast co-host Mark Randall engages in a dynamic interview with fellow co-host Steven Goldstein about his new book, "Mastering the Mental Game of Trading."
This groundbreaking book has been making waves in the trading world, and Mark is on a mission to uncover the essence of its revolutionary concepts.
Mark peppers Steven with insightful questions, extracting profound insights about the book's core concepts and its overarching purpose.
Steven, in turn, takes listeners on an immersive journey through the pages of "Mastering the Mental Game of Trading," sharing invaluable thoughts and perspectives on the critical importance for traders to conquer the mental challenges inherent in the industry and the well-guarded secrets behind maintaining composure and making sound trading decisions in the face of adversity.
Join us for an enriching dialogue that goes beyond the surface, as Steven and Mark unravel the layers of mastering the mental game of trading, offering a transformative listening experience for anyone seeking success in the dynamic and challenging realm of financial markets.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
14 Feb 2024
#124 Mohammad Ali: The Macro and The Micro of Trading, and so much more.
00:54:03
In this episode we dive deep into the world of trading with Mohammad Ali, a seasoned trader with a rich background in financial markets.
As the former Head of Global FX Trading at TD Securities, Mohammad brings a wealth of experience to the table. In this captivating episode, he shares invaluable insights and knowledge that will challenge and inspire traders of all levels.
Drawing from his extensive experience, Mohammad discusses the profound impact of macroeconomic events on trading decisions, coupled with his nuanced understanding of liquidity, sentiment, and market dynamics at the micro level.
We explore a myriad of topics, from Mohammad's reflections on his trading journey to his candid perspectives on navigating the financial markets. He offers frank insights into his career trajectory, reflecting on how experience has shaped his approach and what he would do differently given the chance.
Moreover, Mohammad's expertise extends beyond trading floors. He now curates a remarkable newsletter, collaborating with leading traders from investment banks to hedge funds. From his base in Canada, he extends this valuable resource to both institutional and retail traders alike, bridging the gap between professional insights and private trading communities.
Tune in to this episode and uncover the secrets of successful trading with Mohammad Ali.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
16 Feb 2024
#125 Rajan Dhall: Great Trading Lessons from a Humble Trader
01:02:33
Welcome to the AlphaMind Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to sit down with Rajan Dhall, a remarkable trader and the head of the UK-based proprietary trading firm, DND Capital.
Rajan generously shares insights from his journey in the trading world, offering invaluable lessons learned along the way. Despite his significant success, Rajan's approach remains grounded in humility. He walks us through pivotal moments in his career, recounting challenges faced both in trading and in his early life, and the profound lessons that have shaped him into the trader he is today.
His story serves as a testament to perseverance and continuous learning. Our conversation covers a diverse range of themes, from Rajan's unique market perspectives to his adept combination of fundamental and technical analysis with sentiment analysis. We delve into the importance of mindset, discipline, and risk management, with Rajan sharing practical strategies for maintaining composure during volatile market conditions.
Drawing from his rich experiences, Rajan emphasizes the value of resilience and adaptability in navigating the ever-evolving financial markets. His humility, paired with his depth of knowledge and experience, makes this episode essential listening for traders at all levels. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, Rajan offers valuable insights and actionable takeaways that are sure to enhance your trading journey.
Join us for this enlightening conversation with Rajan Dhall as we uncover great trading lessons from a truly humble trader.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
27 Jul 2019
#8 Adam Nash: 3 Decades of Trading Success
01:06:05
In this episode co-hosts Steven and Mark talk to Futures Trader Adam Nash.
Adam has achieved extraordinary success in a trading career lasting almost 3 decades. At one-point Adam was the 3rd largest Euribor trader by volume on the London Futures markets.
In this excellent interview Adam discusses his journey from working in a bank middle-office in the 1980s, to becoming a bank trader, to moving to trade futures on the LIFFE (London International Financial Futures Exchange) floor, and finally moving to screen-based trading.
Adam shares his experiences, his up and downs, and the lessons he has learned along the way. He also talks about some of the learnings he picked up backing and mentoring young traders and some of the mistakes he sees them consistently make.
This is an interview has so much richness and learning for traders of all types and levels of experience and age. Adam is someone who has been there, had the knocks, bounced back, and gone on to achieve extraordinary success, all whilst remaining humble and grounded.
Please enjoy this lively hour-long episode.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
04 Apr 2024
#126 Steve Miley: Technical Trading, Joining a Prop Firm, Achieving Prop Success
00:57:28
Steve Miley has a lifetime of experience in trading. He’s been a trader, an analyst and a mentor. He’s worked at some of the world’s leading trading firms, including investment banking giants Merrill Lynch and Credit Suisse, having originally worked on the LIFFE trading exchange in the times of open outcry floor trading.
Steve is still active in all these fields, and now is involved with one of the new breed of Online Prop Trading firms called Tradeday, where prospective traders have to pass an exam prior to being giving a small sum of capital to trade.
In this interview with Mark and myself, Steve shared a lifetime of experience, including reflections on how best to use Technical Analysis and apply it into your work as a trader.
This is one of those interviews where you’ll hear great insights which could be valuable to you in your own work as a trader. This includes:
· Understanding the edge of doing and applying good Technical Analysis, whereas most people are doing bad technical analysis which then undermines their trading,
· He also shares some insights about the challenges traders face after they’ve been successful on a simulated environment, versus the trading they do with real money after having passed a prop trading entry test.
· The emotional challenges of trading and dealing with losses and setback, and how this impacted Steve’s personal life.
You can find out more about Steve and Tradeday at the following links.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
12 Apr 2024
#127 Patrick Reid & Beat Nussbaumer: Unveiling the Journey of Trader Development
01:17:14
In this episode of the AlphaMind Podcast, we delve into the world of trader development with two distinguished guests, Beat Nussbaumer and Patrick Reid. Beat brings to the conversation nearly four decades of experience in FX and Prop Trading in macro markets at Goldman Sachs and Commerzbank. Today, he channels his expertise into training, mentoring, and developing traders, advocating for an approach he terms "tradeable macro."
Patrick, on the other hand, embarked on his trading journey later in life after a successful career at the BBC. Drawing from his unique background, Patrick seamlessly integrates his experiences into his role at the Adamis Principle, where he collaborates with Beat and others to train aspiring traders. His transition into trading as a second career has provided him with a distinct perspective, complemented by his exceptional communication skills honed during his previous professional endeavors.
Throughout the episode, Beat and Patrick share insights into the nuances of trader development, highlighting the importance of mentorship, practical experience, and continuous learning. Beat's extensive tenure in the markets offers a panoramic view of trading evolution, while Patrick's journey exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship and adaptability.
Their combined expertise provides a comprehensive exploration of the process and reality of trader development, offering invaluable lessons for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. From navigating market complexities to fostering a resilient mindset, Beat and Patrick underscore the multifaceted nature of becoming a successful trader in today's dynamic landscape.
Join us as we embark on a thought-provoking journey with Beat Nussbaumer and Patrick Reid, uncovering the intricate tapestry of trader development and charting a course for success in the ever-evolving world of markets.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
03 Aug 2019
#9 Garth Friesen: ‘A’ List Hedge Fund Manager shares his insights on Trader Mindset
01:21:56
From a small town in Canada, to a trading role at Merrill Lynch to the CEO of a $6 billion hedge fund and a member of NY Federal Reserve Investor Advisory Committee, Garth Friesen has had a unique journey to the top table of Financial markets.
Being a successful trader, Garth shares his insights and perspectives on what it he believes it takes to succeed in the Financial Markets and shares his journey into financial markets.
Garth also talks about his book ‘Bite the Ass Off a Bear’, which recounts his journey into trading, his experiences working on trading desks and his time sitting with some of the world’s greatest traders and investors at the NY Federal Reserve Investor Advisory Committee.
This interview is full of great lessons and wisdom for traders at all levels of experience, from the novice just starting out to the experienced investment professional at the top of his or her game.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
01 May 2024
#128 Louise Bedford: Winning The Trading Game
01:09:13
Welcome to a special episode of the AlphaMind podcast! In this episode, we have a unique treat for you as we welcome Louise Bedford, the host of the Australian trading podcast "Talking Trading ".
This episode features a simulated podcast exchange between Louise and us, where we delve into the world of trading, behavioural finance, and the psychology behind successful trading.
Louise Bedford is a renowned figure in the trading world, with five best-selling books on trading under her belt. She boasts degrees in Psychology and Business, and brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
For over two decades, Louise has been mentoring traders through her superb Mentoring Program at www.tradinggame.com.au.
Tune in to this episode as we explore the secrets to winning the trading game with Louise Bedford, and gain valuable insights into mastering the art of trading.
To learn more about Louise and her work, visit her website at https://www.tradinggame.com.au/.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
15 May 2024
#129 Tom Hougaard: 'Knowing Where the Market Is Going Is Meaningless, If You Can't Act Upon It!'
01:38:40
Join us on the AlphaMind Podcast for an exclusive episode featuring Tom Hougaard, author of the best-selling trading book "Best Loser Wins." Following his highly acclaimed first AlphaMind podcast in 2022, which became our most downloaded episode with nearly 70,000 downloads, Tom returns for a second captivating discussion.
In this episode, Tom delves deep into the essence of trading, shedding light on the importance of action over mere analysis and prediction. He underscores that while analytical skills are paramount, their true value lies in their effective application.
Tom further elucidates his thinking by talking about his concept of ‘situational analysis’, emphasizing its pivotal role in his trading methodology and advising fellow traders to prioritize this aspect in their work. Additionally, he shares invaluable insights into his personal routine, emphasizing the significance of maintaining optimal mental and physical well-being through exercise and nutrition.
Tune in as Tom Hougaard imparts his wealth of wisdom and practical strategies, including his renowned 'Rule of 4', hid 'Schoolrun' and his ‘Skyscraper’ which he uses to add further size to this trades when moving with the momentum
This podcast is designed to challenge and inspire you to introspect on your own practices and strategies, fostering growth and development in your trading journey.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
04 Jun 2024
#130 Simon Mundie: Champion Thinking: How to Find Success Without Losing Yourself
01:15:33
In this captivating episode, we welcome back Simon Mundie, a distinguished Sports Broadcaster for the BBC, acclaimed author of 'Champion Thinking: How to Find Success Without Losing Yourself,' and the esteemed host of the 'A New Way of Being’ Podcast, (formerly the The Life Lessons Podcast), where he engages with some of the world's most prominent sports figures.
Simon takes us on a profound journey into the world of winning, success, and the complex interplay between our identities and the risk of losing oneself in the relentless pursuit of greatness. Drawing parallels between the realms of sports and everyday life, he sheds light on the delicate harmony between ego, self-perception, and their impact on individuals operating at peak performance levels, particularly in crucial decision-making moments. Our exploration extends beyond elite athletes to encompass the necessity of excellence in trading and investing activities, uncovering the shared principles of an elite mindset across diverse fields.
Join us as Simon emphasizes the transformative power of actions over mere thoughts, unveiling the path to inner peace, joy, and fulfilment by reconnecting with oneself at the core. Delve into the profound influence of the subconscious mind on our behaviours and discover the essential strategies for harnessing its potential to ascend to championship levels.
Simon’s new book is called Champion Thinking: How to Find Success Without Losing Yourself and is available on Amazon at this link
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
10 Aug 2019
#10 Dr Brett Steenbarger: Ego, Trading and Spirituality
01:09:45
In this episode Dr Brett Steenbarger shares his profound insights from a career working as a psychologist with traders at some of the world’s leading hedge funds and proprietary trading firms.
Brett Steenbarger is one of the best minds in the field of trading and investment psychology. There are so many great insights in this episode that you may want to take notes, possibly re-listen and ultimately try to internalise some of the lessons into your own trading behaviours.
Dr Steenbarger talks about the similarities between trading, the medical profession and the military specials forces where people are inundated with vast amounts of information and complex rapidly changing situations and environments.
Dr Steenbarger also talks about his new project, an online book called ‘Radical Renewal’, which focuses on the spiritual aspects of trading and investment. This is a fascinating project which looks at how people can harness insights from spiritual fields to improve how they deal with the challenges posed by the clash between the ‘self’ and the 'ego'.
This conversation expands into a profound discussion on the spiritual aspects of trading and touches on themes such as positive psychology, how to better yourself, how to focus on your strengths and how to use this to get into the zone where you can be at your most effective.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
22 Jun 2024
#131: Journaling Secrets for Trader Success: Inside Edgewonk with Tradeciety
00:52:54
To be a great trader, you have to be a great learner as well as a continual learner. This includes learning about yourself, who you are, what you do, and how you do it. However, if we don't have feedback systems that allow us to see ourselves and our actions more objectively, we will always view ourselves through the lens of our biases and ego. This is why using a journaling tool is so valuable.
In this compelling episode, we welcome back the duo behind Tradeciety and the brilliant online trader journaling tool, Edgewonk: Rolf Schlotmann and Moritz Czubatinski. These two trader journaling experts know all about the challenges and benefits of trader journaling, including the personal challenges that arises in committing to an activity that many acknowledge as incredibly beneficial but which they too often neglect. This neglect is akin to an athlete shying away from their full training routines, which eventually sees them losing out to those athletes who do fully embrace their full training routines.
This episode delves deep into the art of journaling and its capacity to enhance peak performance. Rolf and Moritz also provide valuable insights into the evolution of Edgewonk, a tool that has facilitated the creation of nearly 60,000 individual trading journals. They share how traders leverage their cutting-edge platform and provide a glimpse into the forthcoming enhancements planned for Edgewonk.
We are thrilled to extend an exclusive offer to AlphaMind listeners: a $20 discount on Edgewonk by using the voucher code "alphamind20" during checkout.
Find out more about Tradeciety and their learning and development programmes for traders at: https://tradeciety.com/
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
16 Jul 2024
#132: Unveiling the Power of Systems Thinking in Trading: A Dive into Interconnectedness and Complexity
00:44:01
In this unique episode, the AlphaMind Podcast explores a new theme with a deep dive into Systems Thinking.
Join hosts Mark Randall and Steven Goldstein as they embark on a dialogue discussing the relevance of systems thinking in trading and market navigation. Drawing from their experiences and insights from Peter Senge's influential work, "The Fifth Discipline," they emphasize the significance of systems thinking in fostering a culture of learning.
The discussion also delves into the "Beer Game simulation," introduced by Senge, shedding light on the complexities of systems and how a systemic thinking approach enhances understanding and navigation. This crucial topic underscores the importance of interconnected systems, collaborative problem-solving, and holistic decision-making in trading and investing within dynamic market landscapes.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
14 Aug 2024
#133: The Power of Performance Coaching for Traders with Kim Ann Curtin (AKA The Wall Street Coach)
01:07:32
Join us for an enlightening episode of the AlphaMind Podcast, where we delve into the transformative world of performance coaching for traders. Hosted by AlphaMind's own Randall and Steven Goldstein, this engaging discussion features Kim Ann Curtin, famously known as The Wall Street Coach.
In this dynamic conversation, we explore how performance coaching serves as a vital catalyst for traders, empowering them to unlock substantial improvements in their trading performance. Kim-Ann shares with us the critical role of coaching in enhancing self-awareness and facilitating personal discovery, helping traders achieve their fullest potential while navigating the complexities of the financial markets.
We'll also confront a pressing issue—the hesitation many traders and trading firms feel when it comes to seeking coaching and performance enhancement. As we compare this mindset to the culture in other high-performance arenas, particularly elite sports, we highlight a stark contrast. In sports, engaging with coaches is the norm, while many in trading continue to struggle with the belief that they must not seek additional help.
This episode further examines the self-sabotaging attitudes that often prevail, especially among men, who may dismiss the idea of asking for help. Despite compelling evidence from research showing the transformative impact and impressive return on investment of performance coaching—the median ROI is around 700%, though in almost a fifth of cases it was around 5000%*—the trading industry has yet to foster a robust culture of continuous improvement.
Discover invaluable insights and perspectives that challenge the status quo and encourage both traders and firms to embrace performance coaching as a powerful avenue for growth and success. Tune in now to learn how investing in coaching can lead to profound and transformative outcomes!
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
17 Aug 2019
#11 Clive Lambert: Technical Analyst to Hedge Fund, Investment Bank, Prop Trading Firms
01:03:27
There are few more informed people in the world about the nexus of technical analysis and trader behaviour in the financial markets than Clive Lambert. Clive is one of the world’s leading Technical Analysts, he has a thorough understanding of the way markets work and how people work with them to achieve success.
Clive's analysis can be found in trading rooms across the globe and is used by leading traders from the worlds of commodities, energy, FX, bonds, stock indices and more. Clive is also a leading figure in the Society of Technical Analysis and is a lecturer on their diploma programme which runs at the London School of Economics.
In this interview, co-hosts Steven Goldstein and Mark Randall have a lively and at times deeply engaging conversation with Clive about his work, and about how people use, misuse and abuse technical analysis. They also explore some of the how and why behind technical analysis and price action methods and how people use them effectively and productively.
This interview is both extremely interesting and highly informative.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
03 Sep 2024
#134 Pradeep Bonde (StockBee): Deep Trader Wisdom
01:00:42
In this week's episode of the AlphaMind Podcast, we welcome Pradeep Bonde of StockBee, a highly regarded trader in the retail trading community. Pradeep entered the trading world later in his career after a successful tenure as the head of marketing for DHL and FedEx in India. His passion for trading was ignited when he spent time alongside a colleague who actively traded the markets. Captivated by his colleague’s approach, Pradeep embarked on a love affair with trading, but the journey to success was anything but smooth.
In the early stages of his trading career, Pradeep experienced the classic rollercoaster ride that many new traders face, marked by significant wins followed by devastating losses. Although he had a strong appetite for risk, the emotional toll of this tumultuous trading style began to negatively impact his mental well-being. Recognizing the need for a change, Pradeep drew on his robust background in business and logistics to restructure his trading approach. He developed favoured setups and adopted a strategy of taking partial profits, and hitting singles, which involves compounding multiple small wins.
In this insightful episode, Pradeep shares his journey and the wisdom he’s gained along the way. He discusses the classic mistakes that many traders make, such as failing to establish a clear trading process and falling victim to the ‘island mentality’ whereby they focus on getting rich quickly with dreams of an island home and luxury cars, instead of mastering the more mundane yet essential art of consistently making money.
Join us for this enlightening discussion filled with valuable lessons from Pradeep Bonde, as he offers practical advice to help traders navigate their own journeys in the ever-evolving trading landscape.
To know more about Pradeep and Stockbee, visit: https://stockbee.biz/ You can also follow Pradeep on X at @PradeepBonde
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
25 Sep 2024
#135 Evan Marks: Traders are Performance Athletes
01:15:51
In this episode, we sit down with performance coach and former hedge fund trader Evan Marks to discuss the fascinating concept of traders as performance athletes. Evan shares his unique insights about the parallels between trading and sports, emphasizing the importance of personal development for improved effectiveness and productivity in trading.
Throughout our conversation, Evan highlights the significance of tapping into the unconscious mind and becoming aware of our inner battles, particularly with the ego. He explains how seeking validation can create internal resistance, hindering our performance. By working on these deeper issues, traders can unlock their potential and enhance their decision-making processes. Tune in to discover how self-awareness and mental resilience can lead to greater success in both trading and life, and learn practical strategies to become a more effective performer in the high-stakes world of trading!
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
16 Oct 2024
#136: Navigating the Markets with a Robust Process: Insights from Energy Trader Greg Newman
00:56:00
In this engaging episode, we are thrilled to welcome Greg Newman, co-owner of Onyx Capital Group - an innovative Energy Prop Trading Firm, and the world's leading liquidity provider in the oil derivatives markets.
Greg’s journey into trading kicked off at Gazprom in London, where he laid the foundation for an impressive career in the energy sector. He further honed his expertise at the independent Prop Trading firm, Manadara, focusing on energy derivatives and market-making.
This episode takes a deep dive into Greg's experiences, including the founding of Onyx, which aims to create a pioneering energy derivatives market-making business. Join us as Greg shares his disciplined approach to trading, highlighting the vital importance of risk management and strategies for effectively leveraging market liquidity.
Greg emphasizes that successful trading is not simply about being right or wrong; it's about cultivating reliable processes supported by a thorough understanding of the markets. He discusses how Onyx prioritizes investing in the right talent and nurturing their growth, focusing on aligning individuals with the organization’s culture and mindset rather than just their qualifications. From identifying and selecting the right talent to providing mentorship during the crucial early stages of induction, Greg offers insights into developing a thriving trading team.
Greg also talks about Onyx’s plans for the development of the energy markets by offering new products they are opening and offering to the retail markets, enbaling retail and professional traders them to gain greater and broader access to the energy markets.
Tune in for invaluable perspectives that can transform your understanding of trading in the ever-evolving world of markets!
Company Webpage : https://www.onyxcapitalgroup.com/ Podcast and Webpage: ‘World of Oil Derivatives’: https://onyxcapitalgroup.com/world-of-oil-derivatives
Social Media Twitter/X: https://x.com/Onyx__Edge Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyx-capitalgroup/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onyxcgroup/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@worldofoilderivatives
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
24 Aug 2019
#12 Mandi Pour Rafsenjani: Developing Traders from the Inside Out & Women in Trading
01:31:28
Mandi is a Trader and Coach from Australia; she works with new and experienced traders helping them develop the inner mindset skills to achieve success and to progress to higher levels of performance.
In this interview Mandi shares her journey into trading and how she came to work with traders as a coach. She talks about the classic mistakes and errors she has experienced in her own trading as well as amongst her clients. Also, some of the qualities she has witnesses amongst highly successful traders.
We also explore Women in trading, some of the differences between female and male traders, and some of the hurdles they face in male dominated environments. She also tells of her time recently spent with Linda Raschke, one of the world’s leading women traders and an original ‘Market Wizard’.
This is a fascinating interview which covers a wide range of topics including mindset, personality, structure, ego, emotions, gender, social network, identity, relationships, environment, routine and habits and how these come back to impact personal trading performance.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
05 Nov 2024
#137 Chris Vermeulen: A Technical Approach to Trading & Investing
01:06:25
Join us for an engaging episode as we delve into the world of investing with Chris Vermeulen, a seasoned financial expert with over 25 years of experience. Chris challenges conventional investing wisdom by advocating an innovative approach he calls Asset Revesting. This method empowers investors to achieve higher returns, lower drawdowns, and even profit during bear markets by owning only assets that are rising in value.
Chris is the founder of TheTechnicalTraders.com, a platform offering Asset Revesting signals and education on technical analysis, position management, and risk management strategies. He is also the author of "Technical Trading Mastery" and his latest book, "Asset Revesting," which explores this groundbreaking investment style.
With his philosophy rooted in capital preservation over the traditional buy-and-hold strategy, Chris argues that diversification might be risky for mature investors. Instead, he suggests focusing on rising assets while avoiding those in decline, using technical analysis to spot and confirm trends. This approach can help investors achieve above-average returns while minimizing risk.
In today's episode, Chris shares his unique investment strategy, emphasizing how capital preservation should come first, followed by growth. With extensive experience advising over 20,000 self-directed traders, Chris provides insights into making money in all market conditions with reduced risk. Tune in to discover this exciting yet logical method that promises to transform your investment approach.
Technical Trading Mastery: 7 Steps To Win With Logic : Amazon Book Link
Asset Revesting: How To Exclusively Hold Assets Rising In Value, Profit During Bear Markets, And Continue Building Wealth In Retirement – Amazon Book Link
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
26 Nov 2024
#138 Peter Burditt: Transforming Trader Mindsets Through The Power of Ruthless Compassion
00:59:51
Peter Burditt is a pioneer of Executive Coaching in the Hedge Fund and Investment industry, leveraging a successful career as a corporate strategist at a major investment bank and board-level experience, with over 30 years working as an Executive Coach with some of the world's most senior trading and investment professionals.
As a coach he works with key decision-makers and risk-takers at all levels, employing a coaching style marked by deep compassion and challenging inquiry. This approach has earned him recognition across finance and investment, making him one of the world’s most sought-after coaches.
In this insightful interview, Peter shares his journey into coaching and discusses his unique philosophy, including his practice of "Ruthless Compassion." He explains how this approach resonates with traders, a profession that often tests the limits of one’s relationship with oneself, ultimately impacting the quality of their work. Peter highlights the importance of maintaining peak performance amidst the extreme uncertainty of the markets and the mental challenges traders routinely face. perspective, ultimately leading to the most successful three months of his career.
In this episode, Peter shares stories from his work with clients, using real experiences to highlight trading challenges. To ensure confidentiality and discretion, the identities and contexts have been anonymised and changed, allowing you to relate and empathise while protecting client privacy.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
12 Dec 2024
#139 Jason Shapiro: Don't Look Outwards, Look Inwards
01:02:36
We welcome back the brilliant Jason Shapiro for the fourth time as a guest on the AlphaMind Podcast. Jason, a talented trader featured in Jack Schwager’s book ‘Unknown Market Wizards,’ where he is famously known as 'the contrarian,' always has powerful and deeply insightful views on the art and challenges of trading. In this episode, he generously shares insights into his unique trading philosophy, illuminating the nuanced approach that distinguishes him in the trading landscape.
In this episode, we focus more closely on what it takes to be a trader at the personal, psychological, and behavioural levels. As Jason says, it's not so much about what's on the outside, but what's on the inside that matters.
Listeners, whether you are beginners or experienced traders, will find invaluable guidance from Jason, including understanding how your analysis fits in with what you are trying to achieve as a trader when taking risks, being realsitic about your returns and performance, dealing with discomfort, learning from the past, and mustering the courage to take a contrarian position when your analysis supports it. Join us as we delve into the mind of this exceptional trader whose unconventional strategies continually reshape the dynamics of the trading world.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
31 Aug 2019
#13 Great Learnings from Master of the Markets: Musings on Our Recent Interviews
00:59:00
In this podcast, we explore the purpose of the AlphaMind project, which aims to help people from across the Financial Markets both new and seasoned to develop and cultivate mindsets for success in their work as traders and investment professionals.
We also share out thoughts on some of the amazing interviews we have conducted in recent weeks with the following masters of the markets.
Mark Hutchinson -Trading Success against the odds: An FX trader and mentor who has found his own way to success in currency markets and has excelled against the odds.
Garth Friesen - Lesson from a Hedge Fund master: One of the world’s leading Hedge Fund managers, who oversees a $6 billion fund, shares his lessons for traders from over 20 years at the cutting edge of markets.
Adam Nash - 3 Decades of Adaption & Success: Adam is one of the few to traders to successfully adapt from the futures floor of the 90s to screen-based trading and then to continue to outperform in the modern world of the algoes.
Dr Brett Steenbarger - Trading & Spirituality: Brett Steenbarger, the world leading expert on trading psychology explores the human battle between self and ego. Brett also discusses his new free online book for traders; ‘Radical Renewal’.
Clive Lambert - A Technical Analysis Master: Clive shares strong opinions about how many people misuse and abuse technical analysis and how this undermines their trading performance.
Mandi Pour Rafsenjani – Developing Traders from the Inside & working with a Market Wizard: Trader and coach, Mandi discusses trader development, errors and mistakes, working with Linda Raschke, and women in trading.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
20 Jan 2025
#140 Steven Goldstein: Developing Yourself as a Trader
00:41:42
Everyone wants to achieve as much as possible with minimal effort and pain, often seeking "cheat codes." However, some realize that maximizing rewards requires working smarter and acknowledging that risk-taking involves discomfort. These individuals embrace, manage, and learn from risks rather than looking for shortcuts, making them more likely to succeed.
When I started trading, I, too, wanted to gain without experiencing pain. Over the years and through many challenges, I learned that true success lies in engaging with the discomfort that comes from taking risks.
Success in trading extends beyond analysis, systems, and methods. While being competent in these areas is essential, they are only foundational. Achieving game-changing success requires a deeper understanding of trading and an awareness of what you are up against.
To transform your trading, you must develop advanced skills, comprehend market challenges, and navigate the complex systems at play. This involves recognizing the three intertwined challenges of trading:
Your understanding of the external market environment.
Your self-awareness and engagement with your internal environment.
Your process for achieving specific outcomes as you navigate both of the above environments.
Whether you're a beginner or seasoned trader, this episode offers valuable insights into "Developing Yourself as a Trader," a field rarely explored yet so crucial to success.
As part of this episode, we highlight our new High Performance Trader Learning Programme launching in March, the first ever comprehensive programme looking as Trader Development. We are running this through our educational partner, the Society of Technical Analysts. For course details, visit: https://www.technicalanalysts.com/education/sta-courses/ and scroll down for more information.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
11 Feb 2025
#141 Mark Randall: Understanding Trading Intelligence: Exploring the Key Intelligences That Drive Success
00:51:14
In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of "Intelligence in Trading." Join us as we explore the various forms of intelligence that traders leverage to navigate the complexities of the financial markets. From analytical intelligence, which involves critical thinking and data analysis, to emotional intelligence and elevated levels of self-awareness—essential for managing stress and building key relationships, notably the one you have with yourself and the one you have with the market.
We explore how different intelligences play a pivotal role in trading success. Through an insightful discussion with AlphaMind co-host Mark Randall as the interview guest, we highlight how cultivating these diverse intelligences can enhance trading performance and lead to more informed decision-making.
Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting out, this episode provides valuable insights into how understanding and harnessing different types of intelligence can elevate your trading game.
Tune in for an enlightening conversation!
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
07 Sep 2019
#14 Merritt Black discusses the harsh realities traders must embrace to help develop the consistency needed to succeed
00:51:31
Merritt Black is Head of Proprietary Trading at US firm SMB futures. In this deep and very poignant interview, Merritt shares his reflections and thoughts on a wide array of themes and aspects about the realities of trading and the painful journey which can so often delight, but at times can also rip the very life from you.
Merritt does not hold back, he bares his soul in this interview, bringing up painful memories which were vital steps on his journey to trading success.
This interview is so full of wisdom and insight for traders of all levels. New traders will learn so much which will inspire and support them, and will hear some of the harsh realities about trading which they must start to internalise and embrace if they are going to overcome the odds and succeed. Seasoned and experienced traders will resonate with much of what Merritt shares and can use this to contrast their own journeys in the on-going battle with self, ego and markets.
Some of the themes which arise include: The battle with self, developing your edge, looking at your successes to find your own source code, how true and deep confidence arise, recovering from failures, unrealistic expectations and misconceptions that there is a linear formulaic approach. The random nature of markets, being self-aware, developing self whilst also making it less about yourself and more about the markets. The pain of trading, how low and worthless trading can make you feel, recovering from those lows and growing stronger. You will be amazed at how much wisdom is shared in just 45 minutes. You may want to have a pen ready to take down notes, because you will learn things from this interview that will enable you to be wiser and smarter.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
12 Mar 2025
#142 Anna Fuhrmann: Turning Challenges into Stepping Stones for Trading Success
01:09:53
In this episode, titled "Turning Challenges into Stepping Stones for Trading Success," we are thrilled to have Performance and Executive Coach Anna Fuhrmann as our guest. Anna shares her unique insights on how traders can transform the challenges they face into opportunities for growth and resilience. She delves into practical strategies for mastering the mental game of trading, emphasizing the importance of mindset, emotional regulation, and adaptability.
In this episode Anna, shares inspiring stories and expert advice, that can help helps listeners make sense of how setbacks can lead to breakthroughs, equipping them with the tools to navigate the volatile world of trading successfully.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
21 Sep 2019
#15 Chris Tate - Top Aussie Trader bringing the best of your ‘Self’ to the Trading Game
01:26:31
Mark and Steve talk with Australian Trader Chris Tate. Chris joined the markets in the 1980s forging a long and very successful career in the Financial Markets.
Chris now works with some colleague in a business called ‘the Trading Game’ which focus on educating and training traders in the Psychology of Trading and Behavioural Finance.
In this very in-depth interview, we explore a range of themes which at the core explore how people can bring the best of themselves to their work.
At the beginning of the interview is an excerpt we have added-in which was part of our post-podcast chat that was not meant to feature in the interview. It was a fascinating and very frank exchange of views about some of the crooks inhabiting the industry and the challenge facing aspiring traders in terms of accessing quality and honest education.
After that is the main podcast which explored include themes including ‘beginners’ luck’, developing a ‘growth mindset’, the challenge of using social media for a trader, working with mentors and the struggles of learning how to be a successful trader.
This was a great interview which we are sure you will get a lot of value out of.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
28 Sep 2019
#16 JJ vwaptrader1- Part 1: Wolf of Wall Street meets Retail Trading
00:55:12
Former Penny Stocks Market-Maker, turned Retail Trader, Trader Educator and host of the superb ‘Confessions of a Market-Maker’ podcast JJ aka 'vwaptrader1' talks to Steven and Mark about his colourful career, his time as a stock manipulator, how he helped take companies private, his rise and fall, and his new career retail trading.
JJ spent 2 decades working in the mad and crazy world of market-making in penny stocks which was immortalised in the classic film ‘Wolf of Wall Street’.
In that time JJ came to accumulate the sort of wealth most people come into trading for, only to see it disappear just as easily. He then suffered the near-death experience of heart attack, followed by a triple heart-bypass.
More recently JJ moved into the world of retail trading. His journey into this world was anything but smooth, and he soon found that his 20 decades in market-making was of relatively little value in the challenging world of retail trading.
This interview is the first part of two interviews with JJ where he talks candidly about the world he inhabited, the people in it, and the challenges of making it as a retail trader.
We discuss some of the learnings and insights he has made since becoming a retail trader, and about what he has learned from some of the great guests he has had on his show. We also discuss the MarketProfile tool and associated methods he uses to help him find value in the markets.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
05 Oct 2019
#17 JJ@vwaptrader1 - Interview Part 2: Getting to the Soul of the Retail Trader
00:56:55
This is the second part of the interview Mark and Steve conducted with retail trader JJ aka vwaptrader1.
In the first part of this interview JJ shared stories of his time as a Penny Stocks MarketMaker in a world immortalised in the movie ‘Wolf of Wall Street’. JJ talked about his rise and fall in that world and some of the scandalous behaviours and practices which were part of that world. He also detailed his move into retail trading, his initial struggles and the shock to the system being ‘on the other side’.
In the latter part of this interview, JJ goes far more into the soul of retail trading. He discusses the concept of tape reading and how this ancient art is still the skill which lies at the core of trading. This led to a more detailed talk with JJ opening up about what he learned about himself through trading and how it tested him by sparking the demons within.
This was a fascinating chat which moved towards discussions on personal psychology, ego, dealing with stress and anxiety, using practices to help you cope with this and the value of having a support network around you.
This chat will prove insightful and informative to traders at all levels who will recognise many of JJ’s own experiences and to new and novice retail traders keen to learn some of the potential pitfalls and challenges which they need to be aware of.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
12 Oct 2019
#18 Greg Gossett - 24 Years as a Retail Trader
00:57:40
In this episode of the AlphaMind podcast we interview veteran retail trader Greg Gossett.
Greg is well into his third decade of retail trading, proving that it can be done, and can be done well.
In this excellent interview Greg shares with Steven and Mark his thoughts on the 3 key things he wished he had known when he started trading that he knows now. These 3 aspects are cornerstones to his trading method and his reflections on them are powerful insights in trading which carry important lessons for traders of all levels.
Greg also provides a daily mentor and trading podcast which is available to all free on Youtube. Greg talks about his work mentoring traders on his Gossett Trading & Mentoring and how it helps him in his own trading.
The latter part of this episode looked at the ‘Performance’ aspects of trading with a rather unusual twist: Mark raised the idea that elite athletes are using ‘Chewing Gum’ to enhance performance, with the act of 'chewing gum' being related to improved performance.This performance aspect expanded out more fully into a discussion on performance, human biology, neuroscience, and trading.
This was a great and highly inspiring interview which includes some great discussions and valuable lessons on the mental aspects of trading.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
19 Oct 2019
#19 James Brodie – Trading, Markets, Behavioural Finance, System & Algo Building
01:14:54
James Brodie has been in and around trading for almost 3 decades. Starting in the early 90s, James worked on trading desks at leading investment banks, started his own hedge fund, built trading systems, taught people and educated himself about technical analysis, behavioural finance, coding, and currently creates and writes algorithmic trading systems for a hedge fund, whilst still trading for himself.
This conversation covers a broad range of topics and themes about trading, markets, human behaviour, mindset.behavioural finance, performance, technical analysis, coding and systems, psychology, self-development and learning.
It is a veritable gold-mine of nuggets which will fascinate and enthral.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
26 Oct 2019
#20 Carol Harmer - Technical Trading & Technical Analysis
01:11:40
This week’s guest is Carol Harmer. Carol started as a trader working for Midland Bank markets (which later became HSBC Markets), in the early 1980s on the LIFFE (London International Financial Futures Exchange) in London. She started using charts, at a time when few people were using technical analysis, to help her with her trading.
Over a lifetime in the markets, Carol worked for Midland Banks, Nomura Banks, Credit Suisse, and her own business, Charmer Trading.
AlphaMind podcast host Steven worked with Carol in the 1990s in the trading room at Credit Suisse in London. By then, as well as trading Carol was providing analysis and advisory based on her technical analysis work.
Carol was never afraid to make a big call and had a fantastic eye for markets. Her work and philosophy about markets and price action were to have a big influence on Steven's work and career as a trader.
Carol now produces an outstanding technical analysis advisory service on many markets to thousands of subscribers around the world including; Banks, Hedge Funds, Asset Management Firms as well as to Private and Retail Traders. In addition, Carol trains and mentors’ traders and continues to trade for herself.
In this interview Carol talks about being a Technical Trader, her passion for markets and how she uses technical analysis as a tool to find value in markets. Carol also talks about the way the industry treats, serves, markets to and in many cases rips-off retail traders.
Carol has a unique style and is extremely outspoken and forthright in her opinions. In this podcast she doesn’t hold back, firing from the hip and at those who mislead retail traders.
This is a great interview which will educate and enthral traders and analysts at all levels, across all markets.
To know more about Carol and her work:
Her website is: http://charmertrading.co.uk/
Her YouTube Channel is in collaboration with Markets.com: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQDjlcwUhOk
Her Twitter Handle is @charmertrading
She can be also be found on FX Street https://www.fxstreet.com/author/carol-harmer
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
02 Nov 2019
#21 Benis Kumar - Behavioural Finance and Trading Biases
01:09:55
Benis is a partner and behavioural scientist with 'Final Mile', the world’s leading Behavioural Architecture Consultancy.
Behavioural Architecture seeks to solve complex issues and problems where conventional approaches fall short. It does this by exploring issues through the lens of Cognitive Neuroscience, Behavioural Economics, and Design Concepts.
Benis heads Final Mile's Financial Market arm which seeks to help businesses and people engaged in financial markets to make improvements which lead to improved decision-making and stronger performance.
In this fascinating interview Benis tells us about Final Mile's philosophy and approach to problem solving around human performance in financial markets. We explore key behavioural findings that have emerged in their work, how we as human are impacted by biases, and how we largely absolve and avoid trying to understand and correct these.
This interview moves beyond the normal discussions on biases, emotions and systematic behavioural limitations to explore at a much deeper level how these impact trading and investing performance and how people can start to address these.
You can find out more about Final Mile's outstanding and highly impactful work in many fields on their website at https://finalmile.in
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
09 Nov 2019
#22 New York Yankees Performance Coach Dana Cavalea - Habits of a Champion
01:01:28
Dana Cavalea was Strength, Conditioning and Performance Coach for the New York Yankees when they won the world series in 2009. Today he coaches leaders, executives, traders and investors in how to be in peak physical and mental condition to work in optimal states.
As much as trading and investment relies on intellect and knowledge, they also rely massively on emotional intelligence and it could be said that they are performance activities arguably more so than they are intellectual activities.
In this excellent chat Dana talks with us about high performance and the processes and habits which he sees in champions which are transferable across domains, from sport to financial markets, investment and leadership.
You can find out more about Dana Cavalea on his website: https://danacavalea.com/
You can also get his book ‘Habits Of A Champion: Nobody Becomes A Champion By Accident’, which is forwarded by baseball legend Joe Girardi
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
16 Nov 2019
#23 The Trauma of Trading
01:19:40
This episode was sparked by an overwhelming response to a tweet posted this week by podcast host Steven Goldstein on the AlphaMind twitter handle https://twitter.com/AlphaMind101.
The Tweet: ________________________________________________________________________ For almost 25 years I earned my living as a professional trader, it was a fascinating job that I loved.
But there were times too when it wrenched the very living soul and every ounce of self-esteem from me. - The advertisers and gurus won’t tell you that. 🤔🤔🤔 _________________________________________________________________________
In the space of 23 hours this tweet received over 1000 likes, over a hundred retweets, many comments and several Direct Messages, making it by far the most responded tweet on the Alphamind101 handle by a huge magnitude, let alone in the space of 24 hours.
This tweet touched a raw nerve with many who trade and invest actively in the markets, whether private, retail or professional.
Trading is a highly traumatic activity which challenges each and every person who tries their hand at it, in ways they never anticipate or expect.
The trauma of trading is a topic rarely talked about or discussed, yet it gets to the very core of trading success and the human toll it takes on each and every trader.
In this podcast episode, show hosts Steven and Mark discuss this rarely addressed issue, reflecting on their own careers in Financial Markets, as professional traders and brokers for leading Investment banks.
To know about Mark and Steven and the AlphaMind project visit https://alpha-mind.net.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
25 Nov 2019
#24 Nick Smith - The Crossover of Sports Betting & Financial Market Trading
00:58:28
This interview is really in two parts.
The first 15 minutes of the interview Nick tells about himself and his new venture, and talks about the comparison between trading and sports-betting. Nick sees sports-betting as still in the early stage of maturity compared to the very mature financial markets. For this reason, it is ripe for exploration and provides an exciting opportunity for those who struggling to find an edge in the very mature financial markets.
The second part of this interview talks more directly about trading and Nick’s experiences as a trader on the inside of the FX market in a Market-Making role. Nick worked at major investment banks Goldman Sachs and Citibank where he was active in market-making roles and was close to the flow as anyone will ever be. Citibank themselves have historically been one of the top 2 or 3 banks in the world in FX markets.
This is a great chance for the podcast audience to listen to and hear the views of someone who has traded as close to the inside as one can be and did so in the new market environment of the recent years. Nick’s views may surprise many. There is a common belief that being on the inside provides a major advantage, whilst there will always be an edge on the inside, his views may surprise many.
If anyone is keen to know more about Nick’s new sport-betting venture, the company is called Sportsstack. Their website is https://www.sportstack.com/ and you can follow them on twitter at @SportStackHQ
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
10 Dec 2019
#26 Chris Cain - The Alpha Formula: High Powered Strategies to Beat The Market With Less Risk.
01:22:59
Chris Cain spent a decade working as a Market Maker in Fixed Income products before moving on to work privately as a trader and producing some outstanding performance in a very short space of time.
Chris is also co-author of a new book, “The Alpha Formula; High Powered Strategies to Beat The Market With Less Risk”. The book is written jointly with Larry Connors who has over 30 years of experience working in financial markets and is widely regarded today as one of the leading educators in the financial markets industry.
The central theme of this interview is the nexus of: -Understanding how markets behave. -Understanding ourselves and our behavioural biases. -Finding approaches which enable people to generate Alpha against this background and context. -Creating quantitative systems and methods which enable successful monetisation of these.
This is a great interview which echoes some of the underlying themes of Chris's book: The bringing together of behavioural finance with trading practices in a conceptual away which can help create systematic approaches which drive success in financial markets.
This was a fascinating interview where Chris shared his philosophy and thoughts to finding value and generating Alpha in financial markets. He also shared his experiences as a Market-Maker, shining a light on how it is in the inside of a trading firm, and what are some of the advantages and challenges for people on the inside.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
03 Dec 2019
#25 Beat Nussbaumer - 35 years as an Investment Bank FX Trader
01:07:53
Beat Nussbaumer started trading FX in 1984 for UBS in Zurich. Over the next 35 years Beat worked for a who’s who of Investment Banks including Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and Commerzbank as a market-maker, proprietary trader and Head of FX.
Over the past few years Beat has been trading for himself, tutoring retail traders and providing investment bank research.
In this interview Beat shares powerful insights on the challenge’s new traders face, talks about the realities needed to succeed in the challenging world of Foreign Exchange markets, and explores how the markets have changed in recent years.
This is a great opportunity to hear from a trader who has worked at the very centre of Foreign Exchange markets, who understands what is needed to succeed, and has been there, seen it, done it.
This interview covers so many themes that it is hard to list them all here, there is something for everyone including:
Trading techniques.
Trading your own money.
Exploring trading strategies.
Playing in volatile markets.
How to manage yourself in the markets.
The changing nature of the Foreign Exchange markets.
Learning to be adaptable.
Intuition in trading.
The rollercoaster of trading.
Coping with setbacks.
The true character of a good trader.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
07 Jan 2020
#27 How to Be Better as Traders
01:13:04
In the first AlphaMind podcast of 2020 co-hosts Steven Goldstein and Mark Randall share their Top Tips for how to be more effective, more productive, more successful as Traders and Investment Professionals in 2020.
Mark and Steve between them have over 70 years working in Financial Markets and now work with leading traders, investment professionals, manager and leaders in the Financial Markets industry as coaches and consultants. Their work in the field of performance development has helped many traders and investment professionals to power significant improvement as takers and managers of risk.
In this special New Year episode Steven and Mark share 3 key insights each which they feel will help people improve how they are when they work as Traders. Mark’s focus in the first part of the interview is geared towards physical wellbeing, whilst Steven’s focuses in the second half of this podcast is on mental attitudes and mindsets which people can adopt to help them improve how they are in the daily battle with markets.
You can find out more about Steven and Mark and the AlphaMind podcast on their website https://alpha-mind.net.
You can also follow them on twitter https://twitter.com/AlphaMind101 or visit their blog page https://alphamindblog.blogspot.com/
If you are interested in AlphaMind Trader Performance Coaching you can find out more at https://alphamindblog.blogspot.com/p/the-alphamind-private-trader.html
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
14 Jan 2020
#28 Jim Simons - The Man Who Solved The Markets – With Greg Zuckerman
00:42:40
Jim Simons is the most successful trader of the last 3 decades by a country mile. Simons founded the Renaissance Technologies the secretive Hedge Fund which employs some of the world’s most brilliant mathematical geniuses. Their flagship Medallion fund has returned a staggering 66% annually, before fees, since 1988.
In November 2019, Wall Street journalist and author Greg Zuckerman published his book which lifted the veil on Jim Simons and Renaissance. ‘The Man Who Solved the Market: How Jim Simons Launched the Quant Revolution’ tells the story of Simons, his early years, his influences, his prolific rise as a mathematician, and his career as a code-breaker for the US government. It explores Simon’s initial ventures into the world of investing and trading, how Simons vision shaped the direction his firm took, his search for methods and models which could unlock the potential to profit in the markets and how he accumulated a team of world renowned Mathematicians to form Renaissance Technologies.
This brilliant book also tells the story of the Renaissance through some of the individuals which were leading figures within the firm, how they found and improved the model which still runs today as the Medallion Fund, and how they launched other highly successful funds. The book also digs below the surface to reveal some of the dramas which occurred within the firm, the battles between personalities, and finally the how the wealth created by one partner, Robert Mercer, was to have a huge influence on the world we live in today, and which without, we may not have had Donald Trump or Brexit.
The book is a brilliant read, and in this interview with Zuckerman, we explore his inner thoughts on the book, Simons and Renaissance and discover a little more about what lies behind their extraordinary success.
You can find out more about the AlphaMind podcast and the show’s co-hosts Steven Goldstein and Mark Randall on the AlphaMind podcast website https://alpha-mind.net.
You can also follow them on twitter https://twitter.com/AlphaMind101 or visit their blog page https://alphamindblog.blogspot.com/
If you are interested in the AlphaMind Trader Performance Coaching you can find out more at https://alphamindblog.blogspot.com/p/the-alphamind-private-trader.html
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
21 Jan 2020
#29 Simon Garcia - The Mental Battle ‘is the Battle’
01:03:12
This podcast episode will fascinate all those who work in trading and investing roles. In this excellent interview with co-hosts Steve and Mark, their guest Simon Garcia bares his soul, describes his experience, and shares his views about trading, dealing with the mental and emotional challenges of trading and describing some of the pressures the job entails.
This podcast episode will also be of interest to those curious about mental health in the workplace. It highlights how the pressures placed on people in traumatic workplace environments can lead to detachment from family and loved ones, as well as to one's core values. It also emphasises how this can in turn impact well-being and lead to impaired mental health, with serious consequences for the individual and heightened business risks for the firm.
The guest, Simon Garcia, is someone who has won, lost, and won again, the mental battle of trading. Simon has experienced the highs, the big highs, the lows, the deepest of all lows, and then come back to win again.
By the early 2000s, Simon achieved great success as a bond trader working at Natwest Markets and Deutsche Bank, before moving to Lehman Brothers where he was running a Convertible Bond trading team. Then one day the strains and stresses of trading hit him and hit him hard.
For Simon, the lights went out. Simon had suffered a mental breakdown.
At this point in his life, Simon was achieving great success, was earning big money, had a good marriage and a wonderful young family. To the outside world Simon had everything. But inside, he felt like he had nothing. He was at the point where life had become so painful and traumatic that he was contemplating ending it.
In the financial markets this is an all to familiar story. Simon was fortunate however. The firm, through their HR team, came through for him. He got the support and the help he needed and made a full recovery.
Simon was able to continue as a trader after a break and went to achieve great success for another decade at Nomura and then Societe Generale.
Simon's story didn't end there though. Following his experience, and whilst working as a trader, Simon started studying to be a psychotherapist. To get his hours of practice and training, Simon spent his evenings and weekends, working in hospitals and for local charities. Last year, after almost 3 decades, Simon left the markets to set-up his own private therapy practice. He is now helping others.
I hope listening to this episode will give people pause to think about how they approach their work and how they can ensure they create the psychological safety which ensures they care for themselves, and those around them.
You can find out more about the AlphaMind podcast and the show’s co-hosts Steven Goldstein and Mark Randall on the AlphaMind podcast website https://alpha-mind.net.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
28 Jan 2020
#30 David Keller CMT - From Music & Psychology to Investing, Technical Analysis & Behavioural Finance
00:52:04
In this week’s episode we are in conversation with David Keller. This is an episode we can only describe as 'Rich': Rich in insight, rich in wisdom, rich in depth, and rich in meaningful dialogue and discussion.
David is someone who comes with a huge dose of wisdom, knowhow, knowledge and experience about how markets work, and how people in markets function and think.
David came to markets from an alternative route to many having studied as a classically trained musician and student of psychology. David found himself mesmerised by markets and technical analysis in particular which seemed to capture the harmony of markets and to open a window into the way humans behave within them.
These days, David runs his own boutique investment research firm Sierra Alpha Research LLC, where he focuses on managing risk through market awareness. He combines the strengths of technical analysis, behavioural finance, and data visualization to identify investment opportunities and enrich relationships between advisors and clients.
David is also Chief Market Strategist at StockCharts.com, where he helps investors minimize behavioural biases through technical analysis. Previously David was Managing Director of Research for Fidelity Investments in Boston, where he managed the Technical Research Department as well as the legendary Fidelity Chart Room.
Until recently David was president of the Chartered Market Technician (CMT) Association and is also a member of the Technical Securities Analysts Association San Francisco and the International Federation of Technical Analysts. He has lectured extensively on technical analysis and behavioural finance as an Adjunct Professor at the Brandeis University International Business School in Waltham, Mass.
Prior to that David was a Technical Analysis Application Specialist with Bloomberg LP in New York and was a regular contributor to Bloomberg Markets magazine.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
04 Feb 2020
#31 Paul Wallace - From Air Force Fighter Controller to Trader
01:24:44
In this week’s episode we are in conversation with Paul Wallace. Paul is a private UK based trader, who taught himself trading after getting attracted to internet stocks in the early 2000s.
Prior to that Paul was a fighter controller in the Royal Air Force, and today, as well as working as a trader, and training and coaching other traders, Paul also runs a programme called The Veterans’ Trader Project (VTP) which provides introductory training for ex-forces personnel looking to move into a new career.
Paul brought with him some fascinating insights and perspectives. And this conversation veered into some surprising directions, including touching upon themes about:
What is needed to succeed as a trader.
The delusion many traders suffer about how easy it is to be a trader.
Embracing the pain of losing traders to allow you to grow as a trader.
The mistaken belief of new traders, that trading systems are a form of ATM.
Data Scientist v Traders as system builders.
How operating under ambiguity is a shared skill-set of military personnel and great traders
Preparing mentally for the battle of trading.
Improving and developing exceptional performance.
Decision-making under uncertainty.
Learning from your trains.
Being a fear-based trader.
Process, Discipline and Self-awareness.
The art and science of trading and getting into flow.
Building a trading checklist.
And many other topics and themes.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
11 Feb 2020
#32 Dr Daniel Crosby - Your Brain is Not Designed to Trade or Invest
00:58:27
Don't let the title of this episode de-motivate you. The more you know about your brain and how it functions, the greater the likelihood you can make positive adjustments which can drive superior trading and investment performance.
In this week’s episode we are in conversation with Dr Daniel Crosby. Daniel is a Behavioural Finance author who has written several best-selling books and is one of the leading authorities on the practical application of Behavioural Finance in the Financial Market's world.
In this excellent chat with Steven and Mark, Daniel explains how our brain's role and function so often works against us rather than for us when engaged in our activities in the financial markets.
One of the key topics Daniel talks about is meta-knowledge, the ability to know what we don’t know. Daniel describes how the development of skills connected to Meta Knowledge are so vital in driving successful performance in trading and investment roles. He also explains how, paradoxically, the more fallible we realise we are the more likely we are to make adjustment and thus succeed.
Among some of the outstanding books Daniel has written or co-authored are:
You're Not That Great
The Laws of Wealth: Psychology and the Secret to Investing Success
The Behavioral Investor
Daniels has featured in 3 outstanding Ted Talks, has appeared in the Huffington Post and Risk Management Magazine, and writes monthly columns for WealthManagement.com and Investment News. Daniel was named one of the "12 Thinkers to Watch" by Monster.com, a "Financial Blogger You Should Be Reading" by AARP and in the "Top 40 Under 40" by Investment News.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
18 Feb 2020
#33 Anthony Crudele - Successful Trading whilst Managing Stress
01:05:29
Anthony Crudele started as a trader on the floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) in the late 1990s. He was one of the youngest members of the CME, originally trading the S&P e-mini futures. Anthony was surrounded by some of the most influential traders and brokers in the financial markets and gained huge knowledge, experience and know-how which helped him develop his own successful trading processes which he then adapted to screen based electronic trading.
Having struggled and then finally built a successful trading career and practice, and just when everything seemed to have fallen into place, Anthony’s world was brought to a shuddering halt when he suffered a heart attack at the age of 36. Despite being physically healthy in every way, Anthony believes the stresses and anxieties connected to the job played a key role in this near-death experience.
Anthony recovered and was able to continue trading and to rebuild his career. A large part of this was developing the ability to manage and cope with stress by using powerful mindfulness-based techniques and meditation practices which help him to deal better with the stress and anxiety of life as a trader.
Anthony also hosts the hugely popular Futures Radio Show, a weekly podcast show where he shares his extensive experience as a futures trader, provide insights into what's happening in the markets, and interviews guests from the world of trading.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
24 Feb 2020
#34 Nick Leeson - Rogue Trader: In His Own Words
01:20:50
25 years ago this week, Barings Bank, founded in 1763, was brought down by the calamitous and illegal trading activities of one of its futures traders, Nick Leeson. Working from their Singapore office, Lesson’s accumulated trading losses amounted to over £800 billion or close to $1.4 billion at the time.
Leeson had been hiding trading losses for the previous 2 1/2 years in a false account he had created, the now infamous 88888 account. For a while these losses were of a size that was concealable, however in January 1995, the losses started to spiral out of control. Leeson had been placing a series of huge bets which relied on the Japanese Stock Market remaining relatively stable. However, the market was rocked when a huge earthquake struck the Japanese city of Kobe.
As the losses started to mount, Leeson upped the ante, placing even larger bets, effectively doubling up, but the recovery never came, and the losses started to increase exponentially. Eventually, with no hope of recovering the losses, Leeson left a note which simply said, "I'm sorry" and he fled Singapore. An international manhunt followed, gripping the world’s media.
After a few days, Leeson handed himself in to the German authorities, and was later extradited to Singapore where he was jailed for over 6 years alongside some of Asia’s most notorious triad gang members.
Leeson was released a couple of years early in 1999 on health grounds after being found with colon cancer with a prognosis which was not favourable.
In this frank and honest interview Leeson talks with AlphaMind podcast co-hosts Mark and Steve about his trading activities. He talks about his failings and those of the system around him. He tells of living with the stigma of being the world’s most infamous rogue trader. He talks about his time in prison, the mental challenges he faced, and how he rebuilt his life following his recovery from cancer and release from prison. Leeson also shares some lighter moments, including how he was hounded by tabloid journalists convinced he had hidden the lost money somewhere.
Listeners may gain a new and somewhat surprising respect for Leeson after listening to this fascinating interview.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
03 Mar 2020
#35 David Tait - Ex-Head of FX Trading at Goldman Sachs: Life & Trading Can't Be Separated
01:12:03
David Tait had a fearlessness which made him one of the world’s top traders. This edge helped establish him as one of the leading figures in trading in the financial markets. David success led to him becoming Global Head of FX Trading at Goldman Sachs and he went on to hold other major trading and leadership roles at investment banks Credit Suisse and UBS and was an original partner at Hedge Fund Bluecrest Capital.
David is now the CEO of the World Gold Council and is an Independent Member of the Bank of England’s Fixed Income, Commodity and Currency (FICC) Market Standards Board.
However, behind David’s success was a tragic and heart-breaking upbringing, which he kept secret from the world for many years. David’s incredible story was both fueled and marred by a terrible and dark past.
David's life-story has now been made into a major motion picture, directed by one of the movie industry’s leading filmmakers, and boasting an all-star cast. The film is called “Sulphur and White” and had its royal premier last week.
In this interview David shares his story, warts and all. The interview is timed to coincide with the national release of the movie in the UK this week.
This is the first of 2 interviews with David: The primary aim of the interview is to raise awareness of the movie, and to help give it publicity to support its release. And whilst this may not be the usual interview on trading and investment, it does however raise some crucially important themes about managing self as a trader, and raises questions around people abilities to separate their lives in the hugely demanding world of trading, from their personal life, and lives of people who matter in their life.
Some more background on David Tait:
David has been a prolific fundraiser for children’s charities. Most notably the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC). He was awarded one of the UK’s top honours (an MBE) by the Queen in 2010 for his services to the charity. David has climbed Mount Everest on five separate occasion to raise money for charity, a feat only achieved by a handful of people. In 2007 he set a world first by performing the very first North-South traverse of Everest. His charity raising efforts have to date raised over £1.5million ($2million) for the NSPCC and ChildLine.
All profits from the movie #sulphurandwhite, will be going to the NSPCC.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
16 Mar 2020
#36 David Tait - Ex-Head of FX Trading at Goldman Sachs: Coping with Extreme Fear
01:03:10
In this second interview with David Tait, David talks about fear in trading and how best to cope and manage with the extreme fear which is part of terrain of trading.
When it comes to fear, and fear in trading, there are few people better qualified in the world to talk about this subject than David. David has sat at the top table of the financial markets for near 4 decades. He was formerly head of FX and Proprietary trading at Goldman Sachs. He has also been Global Head of Macro trading at UBS and Credit Suisse, and currently is CEO of the World Gold Council.
As well as garnishing a reputation for fearlessness when trading, David is also one of only a handful of people to have climbed mount Everest on five separate occasions, including being the first person to climb from the North side and descend from the South, alongside Sherpa legend Phurba Tashi.
The timing of this interview is aimed to coincide with a new movie about David's life-story called “Sulphur and White” which had its royal premier last month.
This is the second of two interviews with David, in the first interview last week, David shared his story, warts and all, reflecting on his uneasy relationship with self-respect and his experiences as a victim of sexual abuse by a now-deceased relative, affected is personal and working life.
David’s harrowing experiences are probably one of the reasons why he had a higher level of immunity to the work stresses and fears that impact many others.
In this interview we have a deeply engaging conversation about fear, risk and trading. We explore some tips people can use to help them manage and cope with fear better and discuss both of our own experiences in this area. David also shares some insights of when he was gripped by fear, including how he coped when faced with an ice avalanche close to the top of Mount Everest, which he thought was going to kill him.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
24 Mar 2020
#37 Jon Macaskill US Navy Seal Commander - The Power of Mindfulness & Meditation
01:08:02
Mindfulness and meditation can be enormously powerful when engaged in financial markets. These practices have the ability to weaponize the mind for optimal performance whilst creating a robust and resilient suit of armour against the doubts and uncertainties induced by volatile and uncertain financial markets.
In this conversation, the show hosts Steve Goldstein and Mark Randall explore these activities, digging deep into how and why they can be so powerful with US Navy Seal Commander, Jon Macaskill.
Jon is a serving US Navy officer who practices and teaches mindfulness and meditation. He is currently transitioning out of the US Navy and whilst doing so, is working on a project called Veterans PATH, which seeks to teach these powerful techniques to US Navy Veterans to equip and empower them in their future lives.
Jon has worked in the most stressful, complex and anxiety inducing environments one can imagine. These include multiple tours of Iraq and Afghanistan leading military teams and coordinating with various other teams and units all whilst potentially being responsible for the lives of others and the success of operations.
Jon came to mindfulness and meditation as a way of dealing with the stress, anxiety and depression which resulted from his high wire military life. After some initial doubts and reservations, it proved profound in transforming his life, and improving his performance.
Many people in the financial markets now practice these techniques including some of the world’s leading traders and investors. However, many still feel uncomfortable with the concept, which seems out of odds with the testosterone fuelled world of trading and investment.
Hearing Jon’s story and reflections will give many ‘pause for thought’ and may influence them in ways which could have a profound impact on how they work and manage themselves in their risk-taking activities.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
Denise Shull is one of the world’s leading performance coaches. As well as being a former trader herself, Denise focuses on the positive contribution feelings and emotion makes in high-pressure decision-making situations.
Denise uses neuroeconomics and modern psychoanalysis in her work with traders and investment professionals, and also works with professional athletes, helping them break past the same mental hurdles and barriers that high performance traders face.
Denise is also well known as one of the key inspirations for the Wendy Rhoades character on the Showtime and Sky Atlantic program Billions.
In this excellent interview, podcast host Steven, himself a performance coach, explores a range of themes and subjects, including Denise Journey from Trader to Coach, how coaching can become a powerful edge which contributes to stronger performance, and why there is resistance within the trading world to using a coach to gain an advantage.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
08 Apr 2020
#39 Leading traders reflect on trading through the Coronavirus Crisis
00:55:41
The last few weeks have seen traumatic times in the financial markets. Trading conditions in all markets have seen unparalleled volatility and liquidity levels in excess of the worst of 2008 and which few have ever experienced.
In this special one-off episode we hear from 4 'Masters of the Markets, who each have been previous guests on the AlphaMind podcast and who have agreed to share their reflections and experiences of the past few week's violent market conditions.
The guests are :
Anthoney Crudele: Veteran S&P futures trader, and host of The Futures Radio Show podcast.
Brett Steenbarger: Trading Psychologist, Author and Coach to Hedge Fund Portfolio Managers and a market investor.
Adam Nash: A highly successful and distinguised trader with over 3 decades trading European Rates & Bond Markets futures.
Greg Gossett: Greg has spent over 23 years as US Equities Retail Trader and has established an excellent track record in that time.
These distinguished guests possess vast amounts of experience in financial markets and represent a range of styles, markets, and areas of expertise.
Over the course of these 4 ten minute interviews, each of these guests share valuable advice insights and perspectives of the past few weeks volatile and highly challenging market price actions.
Listeners will find this episode a tremendous resource to help them navigate these wild and unprecedented market conditions, which may be a more frequent feature of the markets as this crisis continues to unfold.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
15 Apr 2020
#40 Performance Based 'Mindfulness for Traders', with Mark Randall
00:45:15
Mark Randall is Co-Host of the AlphaMind Podcast, but this week he becomes the interview guest.
Mark is one of the world’s leaders in the delivery of Performance-Based Mindfulness. He works primarily with corporates, including board-level leaders and people in senior management roles, as well as with traders and investors.
Mark’s outlook and perspectives with regard to mindfulness have evolved from over 30 years working as a broker in the International Futures and Options markets for some of the world’s leading investment firms, where he developed his own mindfulness skills and practice to enable him to self-manage and thrive in this challenging and highly pressurised world.
In this podcast, Mark shares his thought and reflections on how Mindfulness enables people to be ‘” Fully Present’ and at the "Top of Their Game" when their work and their job requires them to be so. He sees Mindfulness as adding both ‘a coat of armour’, a shield and a weapon, with which to go into battle daily in the highly challenging and uncertain world of Financial Markets.
Mark moves beyond the more traditional, and what some would call the softer aspects of Mindfulness, to look at it as a tool to weaponize the mind.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
21 Apr 2020
#41 Andrew Aziz - Founder of BearBullTraders: The Mind is in The Process
01:02:48
Andrew Aziz is a Retail Trader, Founder of the Bear Bull Community of Traders and is author of Amazon top-selling book, ‘How to Day Trade for a Living: Tools, Tactics, Money Management, Discipline and Trading Psychology’.
Andrew talks about his journey into trading after completing a PhD in Chemical Engineering, then abandoning a career in that field to focus on becoming a trader.
In this excellent interview Andrew opens up and shares his views on a wide range of themes, including how easy it is for traders to access markets but equally how difficult it is for traders due to the lack of mentors and guides, and how little good advice is available, allied to people’s over-optimism with regard to the realities of trading.
Themes discussed in this podcast include self-awareness, and how this leads to greater self-confidence, self-management, growth and progress. We also talk about the dreaded ego enemy and Andrew shares stories of when ego got the better of him in his trading in ways that were to prove extremely costly.
Andrews own humility shines through clearly in this podcast.
AlphaMind: Powering Performance in Global Markets AlphaMind brings powerful change, growth and development to people and businesses within global markets. Driven by a deep understanding of how markets work, and how people and businesses function within them, we partner with clients to create personal performance improvements that elevate returns across their trading activities. Go to the AlphaMind website to know more.
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