The High Performance Podcast

Barry Hearn joins Jake and Damian for a no-nonsense masterclass in ambition, resilience, and the mindset that turned a kid from a council estate into one of the most influential figures in global sport. The legendary Matchroom founder opens up about the work ethic shaped by his formidable mother, the chip on his shoulder that fuelled his rise, and the Christmas Eve moment in 1988 when he stood on the brink of bankruptcy, before one audacious deal changed everything.Across the conversation, Barry lays out his 10 Rules for Life: why “everything is a competition,” how sheer graft can make you look like a genius, why honesty is a superpower, and what it means to be “unbeatable” even when life dents you. He reflects on building empires in snooker, darts, and boxing, the importance of thinking poorly to stay sharp, and the role fire, fun, and relentless optimism have played in his seven decades of success.This is Barry Hearn in full force, funny, fierce, and fiercely honest, offering the timeless laws of success from a man who refuses to be beaten. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Win a behind-the-scenes experience at a High Performance record day! Pre-order our brand new book Micro-Habits and use code MICROHABITS26 for 25% off before the launch on 1st January to be in with a chance of winning: https://hppod.co/HPCompWhat if one word could unlock potential, or shut it down completely?When Rene Meulensteen coached Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United, he didn't start with tactics. He started with language. The words he chose made the difference between a player who could score goals and one obsessed with scoring them.In this episode, Damian explores the essential habit that separates good coaching from greatness: mind your language. Discover why Rene never said "change", only "add." Learn how Sir Alex Ferguson's flip chart philosophy shaped United's dominance. And find out how a Roger Federer moment transformed their Champions League campaign.Featuring insights from psychology (the famous Loftus & Palmer study on how words reshape memory), plus behind-the-scenes stories from United's golden era, this episode reveals how elite performers use language to frame reality, lower threat, and spark possibility.Together we explore:Why "change" triggers defensiveness, and what word opens people up insteadHow Ronaldo transformed into a goal-scoring machineFerguson's "if that doesn't work, we gamble" mentalityThe myth of the hairdryer treatment, and what really happened at halftimeRené reminds us that high performance isn’t just built on drills and repetitions, it’s built on the words that shape how people feel, learn, and grow.If you’ve ever wanted to give better feedback, build trust faster, or help someone reach a level they didn’t know they had in them, this conversation with René is worth your time.Listen to the full episode with René Meulensteen: https://pod.fo/e/2bd0c6 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We welcome back Sir Gareth Southgate to High Performance for his most open and reflective conversation yet. In this episode, Gareth breaks his silence on England’s “almost” era, revealing the fear of failure, pressure of history, and fine margins that have shaped his time as manager. He discusses the burden of expectation, the culture of small daily habits and respect he’s built, and the empathy and vulnerability that define his modern approach to leadership.From handling Wayne Rooney’s retirement to protecting players from public scrutiny, Southgate opens up about the realities of leading under relentless pressure, the evolution of England’s team culture, and what legacy truly means beyond trophies.This is a rare, honest conversation with one of football’s most thoughtful leaders, about resilience, accountability, and what it really takes to lead a nation.🚨 Partners Simba 👉 Jake believes better performance starts with better sleep. Discover Simba, start your 200-night trial today now:https://highpfrmc.com/hpp-simba-auBabbel 👉 Learn a new Language and get up to 55% off your subscription at: https://highpfrmc.com/HPP-Babbel-AUVisit Seattle 👉 Start planning your perfect summer of football by searching Visit Seattle on social media, or discover more at: https://highpfrmc.com/visitseattle-ut-auGemini 👉 Get started and grow your portfolio 📈🚀https://highpfrmc.com/HPP-Gemini-auDon’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.Gemini Intergalactic UK, Ltd is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority, under Firm Reference Number: 921817HP Foundation 👉 Do you want to kick-start an evolution that will change the lives of millions of children? Find out more about the High Performance Foundation: https://hppod.co/foundationHP Corporate Events 👉 Click here to book High Performance Events: https://hppod.co/corporate-eventsExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most of us care far too much about what other people think, and it’s holding us back.In this episode, Jake and Damian break down how to free yourself from the need for approval, drawing on powerful insights from Adam Grant, Fernando Alonso, Mat Fraser, Mark Manson, and Paul McKenna. They explore how to filter feedback, value the right opinions, and view criticism as a privilege rather than a burden.From finding joy without seeking validation to praising effort instead of identity, this conversation shows that confidence grows when you listen to the right voices, and stop giving attention to the wrong ones. A practical guide to living with more authenticity, courage, and clarity.Listen to the episodes mentioned:Adam Grant: https://pod.fo/e/1546d4Fernando Alonso: https://pod.fo/e/1e5849Mat Fraser: https://pod.fo/e/158ba0Mark Manson: https://pod.fo/e/15bfe7  Paul McKenna: https://pod.fo/e/2112fb Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Win a behind-the-scenes experience at a High Performance record day! Pre-order our brand new book Micro-Habits and use code MICROHABITS26 for 25% off to be in with a chance of winning: https://hppod.co/HPCompTom Aspinall is one of the most feared heavyweights in the UFC. But behind the power and precision is something far more human: fear. Tom is one of the rare fighters willing to sit down and talk about feeling genuinely scared. He candidly admits that the higher you climb, the more is at stake, and the more the fear grows.He reveals the crucial mental habit he developed: moving past the inner battle, the ‘second fight’ against himself, to harness fear as a force for high performance.In this powerful episode, Tom shares the habits that turn high-pressure panic into laser-sharp focus:Reframe Fear as Fuel: Learn how to direct the adrenaline rush of fear toward opportunity, just like Tom, who tells himself, "This is the moment when I'm at my sharpest".The Golden Rule of Action: Discover the importance of simply showing up and why consistency always beats intensity when building success.The Power of Belief: Tom discusses the pivotal role his father played as his coach and cheerleader, relentlessly believing in him even when he struggled to believe in himself.The Ultimate Commitment: Hear Tom's chilling, yet honest, perspective on the ‘spiritual aspect’ of his sport and the level of commitment required to reach the very top.If you’ve ever felt your stomach drop before a big moment, or wished you knew how to stay steady when it matters most, this conversation with Tom is worth your time.Listen to the full episode with Tom Aspinall: https://pod.fo/e/2d3d2e Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown returns to High Performance to reveal the truth behind McLaren’s remarkable comeback, from financial crisis and public doubt to rebuilding one of Formula One’s most iconic teams.He opens up to Jake and Damian about stepping into chaos, restoring belief through culture and communication, and the power of difficult conversations in transforming leadership. Zak also reflects on his unconventional journey from a rebellious kid in California to leading a global motorsport powerhouse, and why loyalty, trust, and humility remain at the heart of his success.This is an unfiltered conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what it really takes to lead under pressure, proof that true high performance starts with people, not power.🚨 Partners Simba 👉 Jake believes better performance starts with better sleep. Discover Simba, start your 200-night trial today now: https://highpfrmc.com/hpp-simba-auVestiaire 👉 Buy and sell preloved menswear now: https://highpfrmc.com/vestiaire-auGemini 👉 transform your small business accounting with faster payments. Get started for free today at: https://highpfrmc.com/hpp-sage-au  Get started and grow your portfolio 📈🚀 https://highpfrmc.com/HPP-Gemini-auDon’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.Gemini Intergalactic UK, Ltd is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority, under Firm Reference Number: 921817HP Foundation 👉Do you want to kick-start an evolution that will change the lives of millions of children? Find out more about the High Performance Foundation: https://hppod.co/foundation HP Corporate Events 👉Click here to book High Performance Events: https://hppod.co/corporate-eventsExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

​​England and Harlequins rugby legend Joe Marler opens up like never before, about the moment in 2018 when he hit breaking point, walked out on his family, and believed the world would be better off without him. What follows is an unfiltered journey through mental health, accountability, and rediscovering purpose.Joe reflects on the catalyst for his breakdown, the decision that saved his life, and the teammate’s message that made it all worth sharing. He also reveals what it was like to play under Eddie Jones, the pressure of “Test Match Tuesdays,” and the emotional drive that makes great teams go beyond just winning.Raw, honest, and deeply human, this is Joe Marler finding strength through vulnerability and proving that the bravest thing you can do is ask for help. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pre-order our brand new book Micro-Habits and use code MICROHABITS26 for 25% off before the launch on 1st January. https://hppod.co/472Og7qThere’s a difference between being tough and being strong, and Billy Billingham knows it better than most.As a former SAS soldier, Billy has faced war zones, exhaustion, and moments most of us can barely imagine. But when you strip it all back, his greatest lesson isn’t about combat,  it’s about control and why the ultimate habit you need is discipline and the drive to go a little bit further.In this episode, we explore how discipline, humility, and calm under chaos have shaped every chapter of Billy’s life. From a teenage turning point after being stabbed to leading the world's most elite military forces and protecting some of Hollywood’s most high-profile stars, he’s learned that strength isn’t about aggression, it’s about staying grounded when everything around you isn’t.Together, we unpack:Why discipline matters more than motivationHow to stay calm when pressure peaksWhat “controlled aggression” really meansThe difference between fear and focusWhy true leadership starts with humilityBilly’s new book ‘Further - 10 lessons the SAS taught me about life’ is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former England and Premier League star Joe Cole opens up about the lessons learned beyond the pitch, honesty, resilience, and what it truly means to live a high performance life.He reflects on the power of self-accountability, the importance of prioritising family over fame, and the danger of tying your identity solely to your career. Joe speaks candidly about setbacks, pressure, and the freedom that comes from letting go of perfection, reminding us that success is about balance, not constant achievement.Grounded in kindness and perspective, Joe’s message is clear: when life feels heavy, look outward, helping others might just be the most powerful way to help yourself.🚨 Partners Simba 👉 Jake believes better performance starts with better sleep. Discover Simba, start your 200-night trial today now: https://highpfrmc.com/hpp-simba-auHeights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://highpfrmc.com/heights1Hive 👉 Take control of your home energy - smart, simple, and built for you. Find out more here: https://highpfrmc.com/hive-au-hppHP Foundation 👉Do you want to kick-start an evolution that will change the lives of millions of children? Find out more about the High Performance Foundation: https://hppod.co/foundationHP Corporate Events 👉Click here to book High Performance Events: https://hppod.co/corporate-eventsExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Jake and Damian turn the spotlight on you, answering the questions that listeners have been sending in from around the world. From overcoming self-sabotage to dealing with doubt, they explore what it really takes to build confidence, stay consistent, and live with purpose.Drawing on lessons from past guests like James Clear, Susie Ma, and Shane Parrish, they unpack powerful ideas around mindset, happiness, and self-awareness, including why we must be brave enough to tolerate happiness and how to navigate a world that doesn’t always share your drive for improvement.Listen in as they reflect on their most memorable guests, share the stories that shaped their thinking, and offer practical advice for anyone striving to grow, one honest question at a time.Listen to the episodes mentioned:James Clear: https://pod.fo/e/16868cSusie Ma: https://pod.fo/e/bf09eShane Parrish: https://pod.fo/e/1ff000Gary Stevenson: https://pod.fo/e/2af4d8Gordon Ramsay: https://pod.fo/e/1fa614Laura Kenny: https://pod.fo/e/249586Dame Stephanie Shirley: https://pod.fo/e/16a443Tyson Fury: https://pod.fo/e/14ef0f Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pre-order our brand new book Micro-Habits and use code MICROHABITS26 for 25% off before the launch on 1st January. https://hppod.co/472Og7qIn this profound conversation, Gilbert Enoka, the legendary mental skills coach behind the New Zealand All Blacks' success, shares the deeply personal journey that shaped his approach to high performance and the habits he’s famous for.Gilbert opens up about the ‘ghosts’ from his past that still influence his work, explaining how early deprivation made him acutely sensitive to others' emotional states. This gift allowed him to become an emotional detective, observing subtle cues in athletes before training and meetings to meet unexpressed needs, a skill he calls game-changing.The discussion explores pivotal concepts that transformed the All Blacks, including:Red Head vs. Blue Head thinking: Understanding how survival instincts (red) and rational decision-making (blue) must work together under pressureThe 2007 turning point: How a devastating World Cup loss led to embracing pressure rather than avoiding itSqueeze drills: Deliberately practicing skills under pressure to prepare for critical moments"Better people make better All Blacks": Why character development became central to the team's philosophyThe misunderstood "no dickhead policy": How leaders actually enforce team standardsSweeping the sheds: The true meaning behind this famous ritual of humilityGilbert shares intimate stories about working with legends like Dan Carter and Richie McCaw. This conversation offers rare insight into the human side of elite performance, reminding us that the greatest competitor we face isn't external—it's ourselves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two-time Formula One World Champion Mika Häkkinen reflects on the mindset, discipline, and calmness that defined his legendary career, and his unforgettable rivalry with Michael Schumacher.He opens up about the “Finnish Ice Man” mentality that helped him stay composed under pressure, the near-fatal crash that reshaped his outlook on life, and the decision to retire at his peak with clarity and purpose. Mika also shares lessons from McLaren’s golden era on leadership, teamwork, and the psychology of high performance.This episode offers a rare glimpse into the wisdom of a true champion, proof that greatness is built not just on speed, but on composure, humility, and knowing when to step back.🚨 PartnersVestaire 👉 Buy and sell preloved menswear now: https://highpfrmc.com/vestiaire-mens-yt Hive👉 Take control of your home energy - smart, simple, and built for you. Find out more here: https://highpfrmc.com/hive-au-hpp Simba👉 Jake believes better performance starts with better sleep. Discover Simba, start your 200-night trial today now: https://highpfrmc.com/hpp-simba-au FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://highpfrmc.com/fora-free-ytHP Foundation 👉Do you want to kick-start an evolution that will change the lives of millions of children? Find out more about the High Performance Foundation: https://hppod.co/foundationHP Corporate Events 👉Click here to book High Performance Events: https://hppod.co/corporate-eventsExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does high performance really demand from the human mind? In this conversation, world-leading organisational psychologist Adam Grant explores how the best performers think, learn, and lead.Adam unpacks why great leaders build challenge networks instead of echo chambers, how to recognise when ego is driving your decisions instead of growth, and why real loyalty means speaking up, not staying silent.This is a practical and profound guide to sustainable success, one that brings clarity, calm, and confidence to anyone striving to perform at their best. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pre-order our brand new book Micro-Habits and use code MICROHABITS26 for 25% off before the launch on 1st January. https://hppod.co/472Og7qWhat makes great communicators stand out isn’t confidence, charisma, or talent, it’s clarity.In this episode, cognitive scientist and Harvard professor Steven Pinker joins Damian to explore the hidden psychology behind how we speak, listen, and understand one another. He explains why the real art of communication isn’t about what we say, but about how we build common knowledge, the shared understanding that allows people to think, decide, and act together.Pinker calls it one of the most overlooked habits in high performance: the ability to step outside your own head and see the world as others do. It’s how leaders create alignment, how teams build trust, and how ideas truly land.Together, we explore:Why "everyone knows it" is completely different from "everyone knows that everyone knows it"The essential habit of knowing when to make the unspoken spoken (and when not to)How to use focal points to coordinate without wordsThe three types of human relationships—and why mixing them up destroys trustWhy blunt honesty can be just as damaging as ambiguityWhether you're leading a team, navigating a difficult conversation, or simply trying to communicate more effectively, this episode will transform how you think about language, relationships, and coordinationSteven’s new book ‘When Everyone Knows That Everyone Knows…’ is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a sport long dominated by men, Susie Wolff has carved her own path, turning barriers into breakthroughs and setbacks into strength. From proving her place on the grid to leading a complete transformation of F1 Academy, Susie’s story is one of belief, vision, and resilience.In this episode, she opens up about being dismissed as a “token gesture,” the determination it took to be taken seriously, and how she rebuilt her career after painful setbacks. Susie also shares her bold approach to leadership, creating cultures built on trust, empowerment, and authenticity, and the powerful partnership she shares with Toto Wolff, grounded in mutual respect and open communication.This is a conversation about courage, conviction, and carving out your place in the world, on your own terms.🚨 PartnersVestiaire 👉 Buy and sell preloved menswear now: https://highpfrmc.com/vestiaire-auFORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://highpfrmc.com/fora-free-auHP Foundation 👉Do you want to kick-start an evolution that will change the lives of millions of children? Find out more about the High Performance Foundation: https://hppod.co/foundationHP Corporate Events 👉Click here to book High Performance Events: https://hppod.co/corporate-eventsExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In high performance, we often celebrate success, the awards, the headlines, the restaurants, the fame. But for Gordon Ramsay, the real story lies in the struggle behind the spotlight.In this episode, Gordon Ramsay explores the true meaning of high performance, and the price of perfection. From growing up in a council house and losing his dream football career to standing beside culinary legends like Marco Pierre White and earning Michelin stars around the world, Gordon opens up about the relentless drive that shaped him. With raw honesty and trademark fire, he reflects on failure, family, and the hunger that still pushes him forward.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pre-order our brand new book Micro-Habits and use code MICROHABITS26 for 25% off before the launch on 1st January. https://hppod.co/472Og7qStep inside the mind of one of rugby's most respected figures, Bath Head of Rugby Johann van Graan. In this special deep dive into his Essential Habits, Johann reveals the unique system he uses to stay grounded, lead with clarity, and achieve world-class results, from the Springboks and Munster to transforming Bath Rugby.This episode is a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership, where Johann shares:The Notebook Habit: Why he carries a notebook everywhere and must 'Think in Ink' writing his thoughts down hourly for reflection, clarity, and decision-making.Stillness in the Storm: His foundational habit of beginning every morning with a moment of stillness to manage stress and stay calm in chaos.Unshakeable Trust: How he surrounds himself with a small circle of six mentors who are mandated to "always tell me the truth" even when he doesn't want to hear it.The Blueprint for Unmissable: The simple principle that "Rugby is what we do, it's not who we are," and his relentless drive to "become unmissable" by doing the things others aren't prepared to do.Before every game, Johann takes time to replay his week, not tactics or strategy, but interactions. He asks himself: Did I listen enough? Did I lift someone today? Did I stay true to my values? It’s a simple practice, but one that shapes everything about how he leads.This is a rare and special look inside the mind of a top-level head coach. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson returns to High Performance to share the honest reality of life after success, the highs of global recognition, the setbacks of injury, and the emotional toll that comes with chasing greatness.She opens up to Jake and Damian about resetting after disappointment, learning to process frustration without losing focus, and her drive to push the limits as she targets a world record. Keely also reflects on the growing pressure of public expectation, the scrutiny of social media, and the freedom that comes from embracing authenticity over perfection.This is an unfiltered conversation about growth, self-belief, and staying grounded while pursuing excellence on the world stage🚨 PartnersHive 👉 Take control of your home energy - smart, simple, and built for you. Find out more here: https://highpfrmc.com/hive-au-hpp  Simba 👉 Jake believes better performance starts with better sleep. Discover Simba, start your 200-night trial today now: https://highpfrmc.com/hpp-simba-auHeights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://highpfrmc.com/heights1FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://highpfrmc.com/fora-free-ytHP Foundation 👉Do you want to kick-start an evolution that will change the lives of millions of children? Find out more about the High Performance Foundation: https://hppod.co/foundationHP Corporate Events 👉Click here to book High Performance Events: https://hppod.co/corporate-eventsExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Philosopher and bestselling author Alain de Botton invites us to completely rethink what success really means. This profound and therapeutic conversation explores how true high performance isn’t about external achievement, but about realising your unique potential and finding peace within yourself.Alain challenges the obsession with being “special,” explaining why accepting our ordinariness can be the most liberating idea of all. He also discusses how envy can reveal our hidden potential, how we lose touch with our true selves by trying to please others, and why moments of crisis or even pain can be the body’s search for balance.This is a deeply human exploration of ambition, self-worth, and acceptance, an invitation to define success on your own terms.Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://highpfrmc.com/heights20 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pre-order our brand new book Micro-Habits and use code MICROHABITS26 for 25% off before the launch on 1st January. https://hppod.co/472Og7qThe pressure, the noise, the meaning of the occasion, it had all become too much.Two years later, he returned to the same stadium, the same stage, and this time everything was different. He scored one of the biggest goals of his career, not because his ability had changed, but because his mindset had.In this episode, I share what I learned from Dan’s transformation and the powerful lesson he now lives by: play the game, not the occasion. Together, we explore:Why high-pressure moments can derail even the best performersHow to “shrink the stage” and focus on what’s in your controlThe science behind reframing nerves as excitementWhat Newcastle United’s evolution teaches us about team mindsetHow to prepare for your own “Wembley moments” with clarity and calmHere is more information on the studies referenced: What Governs Choking Under Pressure? (Sian L. Beilock & Thomas H. Carr, 2001)When Paying Attention Becomes Counterproductive: Impact of Divided versus Skill-Focused Attention on Novice and Experienced Performance of Sensorimotor Skills (Sian L. Beilock, Wierenga & Carr, 2002)Get Excited: Reappraising Pre-Performance Anxiety as Excitement (Alison Wood Brooks, 2014)A Pre-Performance Routine to Alleviate Choking in “Choking-Susceptible” Athletes (Christopher Mesagno, Daryl Marchant, Tony Morris, 2008)The Effectiveness of Pre-Performance Routines in Sports: A Meta-Analysis (Anton G. O. Rupprecht, Ulrich S. Tran, Peter Gröpel, 2021.)Attentional Focus and Motor Learning: A Review (Gabriele Wulf, 2013)The Performance and Psychological Effects of Goal Setting (process vs outcome) (O. Williamson et al. 2024)Listen to the full episode with Dan Burn: https://pod.fo/e/2eb8b4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.