Martin O'Donnell

Introduction

Martin O’Donnell is the creator of ‘A MODern Talk’. He is a former Secondary School Teacher turned Performance Psychology Consultant who is able to meet with individuals or groups and will talk, listen, discuss and find solutions to the common and everyday needs and issues that can negatively affect our well-being and/or performance.

Career

Martin has a passion for helping others to be the best that they can be, something he discovered at a young age through playing sports. This led him to studying a BA in Sports Science and Physical Education (QTS) and becoming a teacher in the secondary school environment. For over twenty years, Martin has been employed in education and has incorporated both the roles of ‘Head of Department’ and ‘Head of Year’ during his successful career.

Qualifications

Martin added to his qualifications through completing both an MA in Education and an MSC in Sports Psychology. This enabled Martin to be more effective in his teaching vocation and ensures that the themes and messages conveyed through ‘A MODern Talk’ are underpinned by up-to-date research, scientific rigor, evidence-based practice and applied interventions.

Performance Psychology

This combination of qualifications, teaching proficiency and the ‘ups and downs’ of his own life experiences has placed Martin in a compelling position for the understanding and practical application of psychology within the real world: the recognition of psychological issues; the triggers that are causing the concern; the barriers that it can place upon an individual or group and the strategies that can be utilised to facilitate a positive change in performance and/or well-being.

"I have never met anyone who is as focused on developing and improving others. He is a special motivator of all ages"

Mr Ruairi Cranney
Teacher at St. Matthew’s PS, Maghermayo, Co. Down
"A MODern talk brings a refreshing new approach to working with all children on important areas. A very well deserved five stars!!"

Mrs Fiona O’Callaghan
Teacher at St. Mary’s PS, Dechomet, Co. Down
"I noticed a marked difference in my son’s enthusiasm for his sport and his commitment to his team as well as a maturing of attitude off the pitch in his day-to-day life."

Parent of an U15 footballer
Liatroim GAC, Co. Down
"He always knows what to say to keep you level headed and focused on task. He was a friend as well as a teacher and made learning enjoyable."

James McGivern
Professional Boxer, Belfast
"Martin's pedagogical approach enabled him to deliver an excellent, age-appropriate workshop that was specifically aimed at improving the mind sets and confidence of our pupils"

Mr Ruairi Cranney
Teacher at St. Matthew’s PS, Maghermayo, Co. Down
"He challenged them to think about important issues which stimulated further discussion long after he had left."

Mrs Fiona O’Callaghan
Teacher at St. Mary’s PS, Dechomet, Co. Down
"The leadership programme which Martin undertook with our boys was superb, both from the perspective of their improved performance as a team and the personal skills they gained from the experience."

Parent of an U15 footballer
Liatroim GAC, Co. Down