Relative Energy Deficiency in Military (RED-M): A Multidisciplinary Approach to Awareness & Prevention (MAAP)
EXSC-9150-400 - Evidence-Based Professional Portfolio I
Leadership Artifact #1 Fall 2024
Abstract
This project addresses the growing concern of Relative Energy Deficiency in Military (RED-M) within the U.S. Army, stemming from the IOC's 2014 definition of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). Targeting multidisciplinary teams at Ft. Drum, it aimed to enhance awareness and prevention of RED-M among health professionals, particularly occupational and physical therapists, registered dietitians, strength and conditioning specialists, and cognitive performance specialists. A concept map, developed collaboratively, serves as a visual tool for understanding RED-M's impacts on various physiological systems and performance. A pre-recorded presentation facilitates widespread accessibility, fostering multidisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based practices among military health professionals to optimize soldier performance and well-being. This project examined team dynamics, emotional intelligence, and ethical practices in the development of a concept map addressing Relative Energy Deficiency in Military (RED-M). Emphasizing trust and healthy conflict, the multidisciplinary team (MDT) fostered commitment and accountability, leading to cohesive project outcomes. As the team leader, my emotional intelligence—encompassing self-awareness, empathy, and social skills—was crucial for effective collaboration. Ethical leadership principles were upheld, ensuring transparency and consideration of stakeholder interests. The project reinforced professional growth among team members while highlighting the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. Future iterations may extend timelines and explore compliance with military regulations to enhance project dissemination and effectiveness.
​
Keywords: concept map, trust, multidisciplinary, cohesion, leadership, ethics, evidence- based, vision
Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Sports Performance Panel Discussion
EXSC-9250-400 - Evidence-Based Professional Portfolio II
Leadership Artifact #2 Spring 2025
Abstract
This leadership artifact showcases the development and execution of a virtual panel discussion on interdisciplinary collaboration (IC) in sports performance, hosted by the National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA) during their annual "Virtual Fit Fest." The panel, consisting of experts from various disciplines in sports performance, addressed the benefits of IC and provided practical strategies for health and fitness professionals. The artifact explores the leadership roles and skills employed throughout the process, including visionary, coaching, laissez-faire, and situational leadership styles, as well as the importance of emotional intelligence and relationship-building in fostering team trust. Additionally, it examines the technological tools used to facilitate communication, development, and execution. The project reflects on the ethical responsibility of the team and highlights areas for improvement, particularly in post-project debriefing. The event reinforced the mission of strengthening the human performance field through leadership, research engagement, and evidence-based practice. Panelists shared insights on IC, emphasizing its benefits for athlete care and teamwork. The artifact underscores the importance of core values such as learning and quality athlete care while also addressing guiding principles focused on evidence-based practice and practitioner support. Research on IC informed the panel's content and led to the development of educational materials. Reflective practices, including addressing technical challenges and maintaining professionalism, were integral to the event's success, with feedback from attendees validating its impact. Future directions for improvement include further exploring experimental research on IC and enhancing post-event reflection.
​
Keywords: panel discussion, interdisciplinary collaboration, teamwork, soft skills, leadership, sports performance
Evidence-Based Leadership (EBL): Defining and Advancing Leadership in Human Performance Science
EXSC-9500-400 - Evidence-Based Professional Portfolio III
Leadership Artifact #3 Summer 2025
Abstract
This leadership artifact is focused on evidence-based leadership (EBL) within the field of human performance optimization (HPO). EBL integrates the best available research evidence, practitioner expertise, and end-user values to guide decision-making and improve outcomes. Through a video interview with Mark Jones, PhD(c), a military health and wellness leader, this artifact explored the definition, best practices, barriers, and future potential of EBL in tactical settings. The collaboration highlighted the value of interdisciplinary engagement, technological innovation, and reflective practice in advancing leadership capabilities. The artifact reinforced core professional values of determination, growth, and learning, while also strengthening alignment with the author's mission to inspire excellence and elevate the field of human performance science. Additionally, it provided a platform to examine emotional intelligence, ethical considerations, and strategies for building community buy-in. The experience contributed significantly to personal leadership development, transitioning toward a transformational leadership style essential for driving systems-level change. This artifact not only served as a scholarly contribution but also as a catalyst for future research, publication, and professional growth. It underscored the importance of evidence-based approaches in leadership and set a foundation for broader application across health science and human performance disciplines.
Keywords: Evidence-based leadership, human performance optimization, interdisciplinary collaboration, transformational leadership, evidence-based practice, professional development