Inform Performance

Episode 199: In this episode of the Inform Performance Podcast, Andy McDonald is joined by Jess Elis, founder of Rehab Code and one of the sharpest minds in elite sports medicine. Elis earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy before pursuing a PhD and multiple board certifications in orthopedics and sports. His career spans leadership roles as Director of Physical Therapy at EXOS and later as Vice President of Player Health for the New York Knicks. With a career dedicated to blending science, ethics, and athlete welfare, Elis offers a unique perspective at the intersection of research and practice. Topics Discussed: Exploring Ethics in Sports Themes from the Research Communication and Consent Team Data Strategy Ethical Considerations in Testing The Human Element in Data Collection - Where you can find Jess Elis: Rehab Code LinkedIn Instagram -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 198: In this episode of the Inform Performance Podcast, Andy McDonald is joined by Jeff Riepe, a distinguished expert at the intersection of sports science, rehabilitation, and human performance. Riepe earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Southern California, followed by a fellowship in Clinical & Sports Biomechanics at the Movement Performance Institute under the mentorship of Chris Powers. His career spans elite sports medicine roles with the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams, numerous collegiate athletic programs, and the EXOS NFL Combine Training Program. Specializing in advanced movement analysis, Riepe integrates cutting-edge technologies such as 2D and 3D high-speed motion capture, force plate analysis, and wireless electromyography (EMG) to optimize rehabilitation and performance outcomes. Topics Discussed: MoveLab's Advanced Biomechanics Lab Data-Driven Rehabilitation Strategies Integration of Clinical Research and Normative Data Challenges in Late-Stage Rehabilitation The Role of VO₂ Max - Where you can find Jeff Riepe: LinkedIn Move Lab Instagram X -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 197: In this episode of the Sports Performance Leadership Podcast, hosted by Pete McKnight, we are joined by Nick Grantham — a leading authority in athletic preparation and performance enhancement, with over two decades of experience at the highest levels of elite sport. Nick’s career has taken him from professional football to Olympic and Commonwealth Games programs, national governing bodies, and consultancy roles across a wide range of sports. Renowned for his no-nonsense, evidence-informed approach, Nick has helped shape the careers of athletes in football, gymnastics, netball, and beyond. As a published author and sought-after speaker, he is known for challenging conventional thinking and championing sustainable, athlete-centred development. In this conversation, Nick shares candid insights on the evolving landscape of sports performance leadership, exploring what it truly takes to lead effectively in high-pressure, results-driven environments. Topics Discussed: Career Journey — From early S&C roles to consultancy and Premier League experience Olympic & Multi-Sport Work — Coaching insights across gymnastics, netball, and professional football Leadership Development — Lessons from mentors, management courses, and pivotal career moments Leadership Philosophy — Values-based leadership, authenticity, integrity, and influence over hierarchy Metaphors for Leadership — “Batman vs Alfred” and the power of tactical withdrawal Building Trust & Influence — Humility, listening, onboarding quickly, and asking “silly questions” Self-Development & CPD — Audiobooks, TED Talks, 360 feedback, and key reads like Dare to Lead and Radical Candor Team & Talent Development — Reverse mentoring, psychological safety, and avoiding poor leadership promotions Strategic Trends in Sport Leadership — Balancing “superstars” and “rock stars,” short-term vs long-term performance, and learning sideways from F1, business, and healthcare This episode delivers a thought-provoking conversation filled with practical takeaways, leadership lessons, and reflections from one of the most respected voices in the performance community.   Where you can find Nick: LinkedIn Instagram Website -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 196: In this episode of the Sports Science Insights Podcast, powered by Inform Performance and hosted by Steve Barrett, we’re joined by Julia Donnelly — Head of Performance at Athletes Focused, where she provides performance services across multiple sports and professional organisations. Julia’s applied work includes supporting the Scottish Women’s National Team age groups, Glasgow City Women, and other elite athletes. She recently completed her PhD exploring the menstrual cycle in football, adding valuable research to an underrepresented but vital area of sports science. Topics Discussed: Julia’s background and applied performance work across sport Her PhD research on menstrual health in female athletes How growing knowledge in this area can shape better athlete support Insights from her recent published papers This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in athlete health, applied performance support, and the integration of research into practice for female athletes.   Where you can find Julia: • LinkedIn • ResearchGate • X Julia’s Papers: 🔗 Menstrual cycle perceptions in professional football 🔗 Menstrual health support in elite women’s sport   Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 195: In this episode of the Inform Performance Podcast, Andy McDonald is joined by Maggie Bryant, a residency-trained Sports Physical Therapist who currently serves as Vice President of Medical for the LA Clippers. Maggie studied Physical Therapy at the University of Minnesota (DPT) before completing her Sports residency training at the University of Southern California. Her career has included positions with the Orlando Magic and Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine, leading to her current leadership role in the NBA. Maggie’s professional interests include optimizing performance-driven rehab, advancing leadership and communication in medical teams, and refining the biomechanical profile of elite athletes. Topics Discussed: Examination of medical assessments in evaluating NBA recruits Analysis of performance metrics and their impact on player selection Integration of health data in recruitment decisions The role of sports science in player evaluation Case studies of successful recruitment strategies in the NBA - Where you can find Maggie: LinkedIn X Instagram -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 194: In this episode of the Sports Performance Leadership Podcast, hosted by Pete McKnight, we are joined by Mark Adamoulas — a performance leader whose 20-year career has spanned across sport, education, and the corporate world. Mark’s track record is both diverse and exceptional: he has worked with Manchester United, the FA, Red Bull, and numerous global corporates, supporting C-suite leaders, Premier League managers, Olympic gold medalists, and VC/PE companies. His mixed heritage and multilingual background allow him to connect authentically with people from varied cultures and contexts, bridging high-performance environments across industries and geographies. As co-founder of coachup, Mark leads on coach development, bringing the latest behavioural science into the world of sports coaching. Where traditional coaching development often focuses on skills, drills, and tactics, Mark and his team shine a spotlight on the most critical driver of sustained success: the team environment. Topics Discussed: Mark’s background — Greek heritage, move to the UK, and path into sports psychology Professional experience — Work with Manchester United, the FA, Rugby League, Red Bull, and more CoachUp — Neuroscience-based psychometric tools for team function The Infinity Model — Core pillars for building high-performance environments Practical applications — Lessons from the Crusaders and elite teams worldwide Benefits for leaders — Improving team alignment, collaboration, and performance Barriers — Overcoming skepticism, poor prior assessment experiences, ego and fear of feedback Evidence base — Validation by Oxford and Harvard neuroscientists Leadership ecosystems — Why building systems matters more than hiring experts alone Future trends — Rising pressures on athletes and staff, and the urgent need for better psychological environments Call to action — How leaders can engage with CoachUp in both sport and corporate settings This conversation delivers a rare insight into the science and practice of team performance, blending psychology, neuroscience, and leadership to show how high-performing cultures are built — and sustained — in today’s most demanding environments. - Where you can find Mark: LinkedIn CoachUp Research Gate -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 193: In this episode of the Sports Science Insights Podcast, powered by Inform Performance and hosted by Steve Barrett, we’re joined by Dr. Warren Bradley — a performance nutritionist turned entrepreneur, who has spent over a decade working within elite sport. Warren earned his PhD in sports nutrition and spent the early part of his career supporting top-level athletes across multiple sports. In recent years, he has transitioned into the world of innovation and business, co-founding a company that now delivers cutting-edge Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training solutions to elite teams worldwide. Topics Discussed: The truth behind working as a consultant sports nutritionist across multiple clubs Developing ideas to transition out of full-time sport to business owner Building a business and network that scales beyond your comfort zone This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in performance nutrition, career transitions in sport, and the growing intersection of sports science and entrepreneurship. - Where you can find Warren: •⁠ LinkedIn •⁠ Instagram •⁠ X -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 192: In this episode of the Sports Performance Leadership Podcast, hosted by Pete McKnight, we speak with Duncan N. French, PhD, CSCS*D, RSCC*E, FUKSCA — Senior Vice President of the UFC Performance Institute and one of the most respected leaders in global high-performance sport. Since joining the UFC in 2017, Duncan has overseen the delivery of high-performance services to over 700 world-class MMA fighters worldwide, managing a multidisciplinary team of 68 professionals across three state-of-the-art UFC Performance Institutes in Las Vegas, Shanghai, and Mexico City. With over 25 years of experience in elite professional sport, Duncan’s career spans coaching Olympic medalists, World Champions, world-record holders, and NCAA National Champions. His leadership journey has taken him from national lead roles in the British Olympic system and the English Premier League, to directing performance sciences at the University of Notre Dame, and now shaping the global performance strategy of the UFC. Alongside his practical leadership, Duncan is a prolific contributor to the field — with over 60 scientific manuscripts, 9 book chapters, and as lead editor of the NSCA’s Essentials of Sport Science textbook. In 2014, he was awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the UKSCA for his outstanding service to the strength and conditioning profession. Topics Discussed: Career Path — From British Olympic teams and Premier League football to NCAA and the UFC Leadership Evolution — Transitioning from technical expert to organisational leader Core Skills — Communication, influence, situational awareness, and emotional intelligence Building High-Performance Systems — Designing infrastructure and protocols from the ground up Leadership Models — Holacracy, situational leadership, and empowering teams Team Culture — Managing egos, fostering psychological safety, and leading with authenticity Personal Development — Staying technically sharp while reflecting on leadership behaviour Wellbeing — Strategies for sustaining energy, including surfing, meditation, and cold exposure Future Trends — The growing role of AI and technology alongside the enduring need for human connection This episode offers rare insight into building world-class performance environments, sustaining leadership impact at scale, and balancing technical expertise with human-first leadership in elite sport. Where you can find Duncan: LinkedIn X (Twitter) Instagram Google Scholar -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 191: In this episode of the Inform Performance Podcast, Andy McDonald is joined by Dr Fearghal Kerin. Fearghal is a chartered physiotherapist with extensive experience in elite sports. He has worked across Irish sports, including as Rehabilitation Physiotherapist at Leinster Rugby for nine seasons, before transitioning to Chelsea Football Club in the English Premier League, where he held the same position. At Chelsea, he worked with international athletes including Premier League, Champions League and World Cup winners. In this episode Andy and Fearghal discuss the management of T-Junction hamstring Injuries.  Topics Discussed: Evolving Perspectives on Strength and Injury Prevention   Understanding T-Junction Hamstring Injuries   Diagnostic Challenges and Testing for T-Junctions   Establishing a Competency-Based Pathway   Understanding Loading and Injury Prevention   Revising Traditional Approaches to Hamstring Injuries   The Importance of Execution in Rehabilitation   Exploring the Role of Ankle and Hip Mechanics   Identifying Contributing Factors to Hamstring Injuries   Innovations in Rotational Testing and Rehabilitation - Where you can find Fearghal: LinkedIn X (Twitter) Instagram -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 190: In this episode of the Sports Science Insights Podcast, powered by Inform Performance and hosted by Steve Barrett, we’re joined by Dr. Jamie Salter, a researcher and applied sport scientist currently serving as a Senior Lecturer at York St John University. Jamie’s work focuses on training load management in youth athletes, with a particular emphasis on growth, maturation, and injury risk. Drawing from both academic research and applied experience, he explores how practitioners can better support developing athletes through tailored strategies that align with biological age rather than chronological age. Topics Discussed: Jamie’s background and journey into youth sport science The relationship between injuries and maturation in young athletes Managing training load across different maturity statuses An introduction to and practical insights on Bio-Banding This episode is essential for coaches, practitioners, and researchers working in youth development and long-term athlete performance planning.   - Where you can find Dave: •⁠  LinkedIn •⁠ ResearchGate •⁠ X - Sponsors VALD: makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training. Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. Teambuildr: A platform for any coach in any setting. Every day, thousands of coaches log into TeamBuildr to write training programs, build questionnaires and access athlete and client performance data. Teambuildr is a complete platform. Whether you're building your own programming, looking to create custom reports or give athletes a tool for accountability, they've built it out. -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 189: In this episode of the Sports Science Insights Podcast, powered by Inform Performance and hosted by Steve Barrett, we’re joined by Dave Carolan, a highly experienced Head of Performance, strategy advisor, and entrepreneur, currently leading the first team performance program at Derby County. With over 30 years in elite professional sport, Dave brings a wealth of knowledge on the evolution of performance departments, athlete monitoring, and the changing landscape of sport science. From his early days pioneering innovation in football to his current strategic leadership role, Dave offers both historical context and forward-thinking insight. Topics Discussed: The evolution of performance departments in elite sport How internal and external load monitoring has changed over three decades What innovation looked like in the early days of sport science Why players today are playing fewer games than 10–20 years ago This is a must-listen for practitioners, coaches, and leaders seeking to understand the past, present, and future of performance strategy in elite sport. - Where you can find Dave: •⁠  LinkedIn •⁠ Website •⁠ X - Sponsors VALD: makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training. Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. Teambuildr: A platform for any coach in any setting. Every day, thousands of coaches log into TeamBuildr to write training programs, build questionnaires and access athlete and client performance data. Teambuildr is a complete platform. Whether you're building your own programming, looking to create custom reports or give athletes a tool for accountability, they've built it out. -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 188: In this episode of the Inform Performance Podcast, Andy McDonald is joined by Stephanie Grubbs, a Strength & Conditioning Coach and Sport Scientist currently working with the Houston Astros in Major League Baseball. With prior experience across top-tier programs including the University of Pittsburgh, Clemson Athletics, and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Stephanie brings a diverse and practical perspective on applied sport science in elite sport. In this conversation, Stephanie shares her journey through high-performance environments and reflects on the strategies, systems, and relationships that have shaped her approach to athlete development. Topics Discussed: The evolution of sports science in the U.S. high-performance landscape Building strong relationships and implementing impactful ideas Designing effective systems and processes in sports science programs The use of microdosing in strength training Adapting training methods to the unique demands of baseball The importance of intent and communication in daily training Exploring innovative recovery strategies Thoughts on career development and mentorship in elite sport Whether you're a coach, practitioner, or sports science student, this episode delivers valuable insights into optimizing performance support in team sports. - Where you can find Stephanie: LinkedIn X (Twitter) Instagram -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 187: In this episode of the Athletic Shoulder Podcast, we’re joined by Annelies Maenhout, a visiting professor at Ghent University’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and a leading researcher in shoulder rehabilitation. As a core member of the university’s Upper Limb Research Team, Annelies has contributed significantly to the field through her work on EMG, motor learning, and kinetic chain mechanics. Her research bridges cutting-edge science with clinical practice, offering insights into how shoulder rehab can be refined through eccentric loading, implicit motor learning, and neuromechanics. With a forward-thinking approach, she explores how VR, brain activity, and reaction time play a role in optimizing rehab for overhead athletes. Topics Discussed: EMG research on kinetic chain and plyometric exercises How her view on GIRD (glenohumeral internal rotation deficit) evolved over time Key findings from eccentric training research Transitioning from internal to external attentional focus in rehab Applying implicit motor learning in shoulder rehabilitation The current gap in research on reaction time in overhead athletes Exploring the potential of VR and neuroscience in shoulder rehab Future directions in shoulder research: muscle synergies and brain activity Whether you're a clinician, coach, or researcher, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of evidence-based shoulder rehabilitation. - Where you can find Annelies: LinkedIn ResearchGate -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 186: In this episode of the Sports Performance Leadership Podcast, hosted by Pete McKnight, we speak with Perry Stewart, Head of Academy Performance at Arsenal Football Club, and a highly respected leader in elite sport. With over a decade of experience across high-performance environments, Perry brings a unique blend of practical coaching expertise, strategic leadership, and a deep focus on developing high-trust, high-performing teams. Perry holds an MSc in Strength & Conditioning, is pursuing a PhD at Loughborough University focusing on performance support teams, and is accredited by both the UKSCA and BASES. He was also named UKSCA Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Year for Youth Sport, recognizing his outstanding work in athlete development. Topics Discussed: Unconventional path to leadership – From community fitness roles to elite sport Transitioning from practitioner to strategic leader at Arsenal The importance of people over process in high-performance environments How to build high-trust teams through empowerment and collaboration Learning leadership through experience and reflection, not just formal training Influences from organisational psychology and practical leadership frameworks The enduring impact of classic leadership models like The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People This episode provides powerful insights for anyone interested in building culture, leading teams, and elevating athlete development within elite sport. - Where you can find Perry: •⁠  LinkedIn •⁠ Instagram •⁠ X - Sponsors Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. Remaker: The Portable Strength Tracking Ecosystem. Remaker provides real-time insights to optimise your performance, making even the smallest improvements in your strength training visible in an engaging and powerful format. Remakers integrate seamlessly with the exercise equipment you already use, and the app provides meaningful metrics for every rep, of every set, of every exercise. VALD: makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training. -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 185: In this episode of the Inform Performance Podcast, hosted by Andy McDonald, we’re joined by Travis Gaudet and Taylor Evernden — two leaders in integrated rehab and performance systems. Travis is a highly credentialed physiotherapist with a Master’s from Dalhousie University, a Fellowship with the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapists (FCAMPT), and advanced certifications in IMS, acupuncture, diagnostic imaging, and manual therapy techniques. His work focuses on evidence-based rehab, injury reduction, and leveraging sport science analytics to help athletes truly return to performance. Taylor is a Strength and Conditioning Coach and founder of ORKA Performance, with over a decade of elite-level coaching experience across the Premier League, NHL, MLS, CFL, and more. Holding a Master’s in Strength and Conditioning from Edith Cowan University, Taylor brings a high-performance, sport-specific lens to athlete development and is also a coach educator with Canada Soccer. Topics Discussed: Introduction to ORKA Performance and the founders’ backgrounds Their ACL rehabilitation process and overall philosophy Key phases of ACL rehab and metrics used to monitor progress How they are revolutionizing traditional rehab protocols The critical importance of objective testing in return-to-performance decisions Navigating the unique challenges of the Canadian rehab landscape Building a standout strength and conditioning model for post-rehab success Major lessons learned from years of clinical and performance practice Tune in for a deep dive into next-generation rehab and performance strategies that bridge science, therapy, and coaching to build resilient, elite athletes. - Where you can find Travis and Taylor: LinkedIn Instagram X/Twitter Facebook Website -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 184: In this episode of the Athletic Shoulder Podcast, powered by Inform Performance and hosted by Ben Ashworth, we’re joined by Hon. Professor Ian Horsley, a renowned Chartered Physiotherapist and Athlete Health Lead at the UK Sports Institute. With over 25 years of experience in elite sport, Ian has worked with England Rugby, Rugby League, professional football clubs, and was part of Team GB’s HQ physiotherapy team at four Olympic and two Commonwealth Games. Ian is internationally recognized for his expertise in shoulder dysfunction, upper limb rehabilitation, and dysfunctional breathing. He also serves as Clinical Director at Back in Action Rehabilitation and holds an honorary professorship at the University of Salford, where he contributes to the MSc in Sports Rehabilitation program. Topics Discussed: The importance of respiratory health in movement and rehab Assessing thoracic shape and breathing patterns to support shoulder function How cranial nerves and eye movements influence pain and range of motion Using the brain’s activation to enhance rehabilitation exercises Case studies from elite sport showcasing holistic assessment techniques The 'not the shoulder' approach to shoulder treatment The role of proprioception in athlete performance and recovery Innovative methods like sensory input and non-threatening assessments Gaps in current functional and overhead testing for athletes The value of collaborative research in advancing shoulder rehab Tune in for a masterclass in shoulder performance and rehabilitation, combining neuroscience, biomechanics, and decades of elite sport experience. - Where you can find Ian: LinkedIn ResearchGate X/Twitter Back in Action (Rehabilitation) Physiotherapy in Wakefield -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 183: In this episode of the Sports Science Insights Podcast, powered by Inform Performance and hosted by Steve Barrett, we’re joined by Mitch Cholewinski, Coordinator of Football Sports Science at the University of Nebraska. Now in his second season with the Cornhuskers, Mitch plays a key role in collaborating with strength & conditioning, athletic medicine, and coaching staff to monitor workload and enhance athlete performance. Before Nebraska, Mitch served as Associate Director of Applied Sports Science at the University of Texas, where he helped shape data-driven performance systems for the Longhorns' football program. Topics Discussed: What sports science looks like in college football The importance of recovery strategies in a demanding football environment Blood flow restriction training (BFR) – how it’s used and why it matters Tune in for a unique behind-the-scenes look at how sports science is integrated into elite college football programs to maximize athlete performance and recovery. - Where you can find Mitch: •⁠  LinkedIn •⁠ Google Scholar •⁠ X - Sponsors VALD: makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training. Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. Teambuildr: A platform for any coach in any setting. Every day, thousands of coaches log into TeamBuildr to write training programs, build questionnaires and access athlete and client performance data. Teambuildr is a complete platform. Whether you're building your own programming, looking to create custom reports or give athletes a tool for accountability, they've built it out. -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 182: In this episode of the Sport Performance Leadership Podcast host Pete McKnight speaks to Luke Passman, a seasoned performance leader with experience across rugby, tennis, baseball, and football at the elite level. Luke is currently the Head of Performance Sciences – Academy at Chelsea FC, where he oversees S&C, sport science, and nutrition. Luke’s career spans top roles including Strength & Conditioning Coordinator for the New York Mets, where he oversaw player development systems in the U.S. and the Dominican Republic, and Head of Sport Science Support at SotoTennis Academy, leading multidisciplinary teams. He’s also a private performance consultant on the WTA Tour, working with players at Grand Slam and WTA 250/500 events. Topics Discussed: Career journey – From coaching in Spain to leadership at the Mets and Chelsea FC Transition to leadership – Moving from S&C delivery to managing multidisciplinary teams Leadership at the Mets – Navigating decentralised systems and empowering staff Strategic performance impact – Leading initiatives like performance scouting for the MLB Draft Learning to lead – Mentorship, reflection, and executive leadership training at Oxford Navigating change – Managing staff and culture through leadership turnover Core leadership principles – Authenticity, clarity, autonomy, and honest feedback Cultural adaptability – Leading across Spain, the U.S., and the UK Future of performance leadership – Data-driven systems, generational shifts, and staff development Advice for aspiring leaders – Be self-aware, seek support, work hard, and own your growth - Where you can find Luke: •⁠  LinkedIn •⁠ Instagram •⁠ X - Sponsors Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. Remaker: The Portable Strength Tracking Ecosystem. Remaker provides real-time insights to optimise your performance, making even the smallest improvements in your strength training visible in an engaging and powerful format. Remakers integrate seamlessly with the exercise equipment you already use, and the app provides meaningful metrics for every rep, of every set, of every exercise. VALD: makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training. -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 181: In this episode of the Inform Performance podcast host Andy McDonald speaks to Dr. Chris Bramah, a leading physiotherapist specializing in running injuries and biomechanics. With vast experience in elite-level sport, Chris has worked with British Athletics and Team GB, supporting endurance athletes at the Tokyo 2020 & Rio 2016 Olympics, the 2017 London World Championships, IAAF Diamond League events, and global altitude training camps. Topics Discussed: The importance of movement quality assessment in injury prevention Sprint technique: Balancing risk vs. reward for performance and injury reduction Understanding the S-MAS (Sprint Mechanics Assessment Score) and its key parameters The workflow of an S-MAS assessment – How it’s used in practice Case studies demonstrating real-world applications of S-MAS Limitations and future directions of sprint mechanics assessment The role of AI in revolutionizing movement analysis Tune in for expert insights into biomechanics, sprint mechanics, and the future of movement assessment in elite sports.   - Where you can find Chris: LinkedIn X (Twitter) Instagram -  Sponsors VALD Performance, makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. Output: is a faster, cheaper and more efficient way to test, analyze, report and program athletic performance - all in a single platform and sensor. Provide comprehensive performance evaluations with 200+ assessments spanning VBT, strength, power and movement. Validated by 10+ years of scientific research.  -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight

Episode 180: In this episode of our Sports Science Insights Podcast, powered by Inform Performance, host Steve Barrett speaks to Aman Singh Shergill, Head of Innovation and Performance Scientist for a Premier League & Champions League club. With a background in both applied and academic sport science, Aman is also completing his PhD at the University of Chester, making him a leading expert in technology-driven performance solutions. Topics Discussed: Aman’s journey into sport science and innovation The evolution of sport science and its impact on elite performance The role of technology in modern sport science practice Are we using too much technology? – Finding the right balance The 4 Pillars of implementation for effective tech use in sport The future of technology in sports – Where are we headed? - Where you can find Aman: •⁠  LinkedIn •⁠ ResearchGate •⁠ X - Sponsors VALD: makers of the Nordbord, Forceframe, ForeDecks and HumanTrak. VALD Performance systems are built with the high-performance practitioner in mind, translating traditionally lab-based technologies into engaging, quick, easy-to-use tools for daily testing, monitoring and training. Hytro: The world’s leading Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) wearable, designed to accelerate recovery and maximise athletic potential using Hytro BFR for Professional Sport. Teambuildr: A platform for any coach in any setting. Every day, thousands of coaches log into TeamBuildr to write training programs, build questionnaires and access athlete and client performance data. Teambuildr is a complete platform. Whether you're building your own programming, looking to create custom reports or give athletes a tool for accountability, they've built it out. -  Where to Find Us Keep up to date with everything that is going on with the podcast by following Inform Performance on: Instagram Twitter Our Website - Our Team Andy McDonald Ben Ashworth Alistair McKenzie Dylan Carmody Steve Barrett  Pete McKnight