Coming back from British Columbia, I realised that the biggest lessons weren’t in the mountains I climbed — they were in the behaviours I chose, the trust I had to build, and the meaning I gave to my actions.In this episode, I break down the key lessons I’m carrying into Q4:Why big feats of performance come from subtle shifts in behaviourHow committing fully builds deeper trustWhy stepping back can be the hardest, but most fulfilling move you makeThe role of intention in creating results that lastThe bigger picture of success — for myself, my family, and my leadershipI also share the powerful questions I’m asking myself this quarter:What does success actually look like?What’s the one move that can snowball everything else?What have I been hiding from, and how can I face it head-on?Am I looking after myself and those around me with the decisions I make?If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to reset, refocus, and perform at a higher level without burning out — this episode will give you the framework to step into Q4 with clarity and intention.If you're a CEO, executive or driven professional and would like to learn more about how Built For Pressure works DM the word BFP for details #HighPerformance #Leadership #BuiltForPressure #GoalSetting #ExecutiveMindset
In this episode, I sit down with Hanane Gamhiouen to explore what it really takes to unlock peak performance as a leader. Hanane has a wealth of experience and knowledge helping executives and teams develop the skills needed to rise to challenges and be more effective in the process. Hanane shares her journey through the industry, the lessons that shaped her, and the frameworks she uses to help clients build flow, resilience, and sustained performance.We dive into what separates those who thrive under pressure from those who fall short, including the key indicators that reveal when you’re not operating at your true potential. This conversation isn’t about the theory.It’s about practical strategies leaders can apply to sharpen their edge, sustain energy, and perform at the highest level without sacrificing themselves.If you're a CEO, Exec or business leader whos looking for deep meaning on how to start getting out of your own way and start performing at your best this conversation is for you. Hanane is also part of the Deepsky RISE platform, which was built to redefine what leadership performance really looks like. You can find Hanane on:LI: @Hanane-GamhiouenWeb: https://deepskyleaders.com/
In this episode, I sit down with Abigail Ireland, a peak performance strategist, coach, and former investment banker with whom I have the pleasure of working on the new Deepsky RISE platform. We discuss what it truly takes to find your edge in business and life and learn her philosophy on helping executives perform at their best. We unpack the daily behaviours, mental frameworks, and non-negotiables that allow high performers to sustain energy, decision-making, and focus under pressure. From leadership in the boardroom to recovery outside of it, Abigail brings experience helping executives operate at their sharpest while navigating demanding environments.Expect a conversation on:The real meaning of high performance (beyond clichés and hacks)Abi's experiences leaving the corporate world and pursuing her passion for coaching. How to protect and direct your energy when demands never stopThe importance of recovery, focus, and precision in leadershipWhy identity and standards shape how you show up under pressureThis isn’t theory. It’s about actionable strategies that leaders, CEOs, and business owners can apply immediately to live, lead, and perform at their best.If you’re ambitious, driven, and unwilling to settle for “average” in your health, business, or leadership, this conversation is for you.If you're looking to find out more about Abi and what she does, here are some links to her platforms:➡️ https://abigailireland.com/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigailireland/ Also, if you're a CEO or Executive check out the new RISE platform➡️ https://deepskyleaders.com/rise #BuiltForPressure #Rise #deepsky
In this episode, I sit down with Tom Ocleary, owner of OCS Performance and current athlete inside my program who's chasing a 2:45 marathon time. Tom's been part of the Built For Pressure program for over a year, and we've seen multiple personal bests in his athleticism and professional performance, all driven by delving deep into how to leverage his biggest asset: Himself. Most high performers struggle with one thing, and that's getting in the way of themselves. We break down the strategies that helped Tom stop being his worst enemy, build systems that allowed him to sustain high performance, and discover what it really means to find his edge.Whether you’re a CEO, business leader, or athlete chasing ambitious goals, this conversation will show you what it takes to raise your standards, lead with intent, and keep pushing even when pressure is at its highest.Topics we cover:The mindset shift behind chasing a 2:45 marathon.How performance systems translate from athletics into businessThe traps ambitious leaders fall into (and how to avoid them)Why pressure is a privilege and how to use it as fuelWhy walking the walk is so important for development and what he learnt training in Kenya.Building sustainable habits when life and business are at full tiltHow to use metrics to drive performance and so much more. This isn’t about motivation. It’s about action, standards, and execution.If you’re ready to stop leaving potential on the table and want to perform at your best across mind, body, and business, this episode is for you.#BuiltForPressure #HighPerformance #Leadership #MarathonTraining #Entrepreneurship
Ready to unlock The Leadership Secret? In this episode I sit down with Chris Whipp, a former Apache helicopter pilot, mental performance coach, hypnotherapist and author of The Leadership Secret: Be the Difference that Makes the Difference.We explore what pressure really means for leaders, why the highest performers see it as a privilege, and how Chris’s own journey, from military aviation to battling cancer, and how it has shaped his philosophy on leadership, resilience, and human performance.Inside this conversation:The hidden costs of leadership most CEOs ignoreChris’s transition from Apache pilot to mental performance expertWhy hypnotherapy is a game-changer for stress and clarityThe core message of The Leadership Secret and how to apply it dailyHow to see pressure not as a burden, but as the privilege that shapes great leadersI’m also excited to share that I’ll be working alongside Chris at Deepsky, which he cofounded. This platform is designed to help CEOs and leadership teams unlock performance at the highest level.If you’re a CEO, business owner or entrepreneur who wants to lead sharper, live stronger, and perform at your highest level — this one’s for you.Subscribe for weekly conversations and strategies on high performance, leadership and finding your edge.If you want to learn more about how to work with me heres the doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m5OZIWgqBzFowqoYTLpJD9fBwVyFDeB7nIVPrQGoeg0/edit?tab=t.0🔗 Connect with me:Linkedin: @willfodenInstagram: @willfodenWebsite www.builtforpressure.net🔗 Connect with Chris:LinkedIn: @chriswhippWebsite: https://deepskyleaders.com/His book, The Leadership Secret: Be the Difference that makes the Difference, is on Amazon now. #LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Stoneham Knott, CEO of Miramar Global a world-leading executive search and leadership performance firm.High performance isn't a given, and Andy is someone who I know is pushing his limits across the board, not only running a global company but also physically exploring his capacity to lead and push into knew territories.Together, we discuss the work we’ve done inside Built For Pressure to help Andy unlock new levels of energy, focus, and execution. From upgrading his routines to reframing how he manages pressure with this energy, Andy shares how applying a performance operating system has sharpened his leadership and strengthened the way he runs himself inside of his business.Andy opens up about the lessons he’s learned, the standards he now holds, and how performance mastery translates directly into business impact.We also discuss The Deep Sky Leadership Performance platform to whicn I'll be delivering workshops on human optimisation and physical performance on the Rise platform side of the business.If you're a CEO, exec or athlete who wants to learn how to physically be in the best shape possible to lead yourself and lead others then Andrews story shouldnt be missed.If you want to learn more about how to work with me heres the doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m5OZIWgqBzFowqoYTLpJD9fBwVyFDeB7nIVPrQGoeg0/edit?tab=t.0🔗 Connect with me:Linkedin: @willfodenInstagram: @willfodenWebsite www.builtforpressure.net🔗 Connect with Andrew:Linkedin: @AndrewsonehamknottWebsite: https://www.miramar.global/ Leadership: https://deepskyleaders.com/ #LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
It’s easy for your standards to slip without you even noticing. Summer hits and suddenly it’s more BBQ's, more calories, more “I’ll get back to it later.”But high performers don’t drift with the crowd, they hold the standard when others are wavering.In this episode, I discuss the five red flags that you’ve shifted into cruise control and, more importantly, how to get your fire back fast.Here’s what we cover:The subtle mindset shift that turns your big targets into “nice to haves”Why “doing more” before or after a holiday can destroy your progressHow comfort kills momentum in training, business, and lifeWhy elite performance is never about “more” it’s about focus.The most significant sign you’ve lost your edge (and how to fix it instantly)Plus, I’ll give you a performance reset plan to sharpen your training, dial in your nutrition, and get back to urgently attacking your goals.This episode is for you if you want to keep your standards high and persevere when others are backing downIf you want to learn more about how to work with me heres the doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m5OZIWgqBzFowqoYTLpJD9fBwVyFDeB7nIVPrQGoeg0/edit?tab=t.0🔗 Connect with me:Linkedin: @willfodenInstagram: @willfodenWebsite www.builtforpressure.net#LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
If you want to learn more about how to work with me here's the doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m5OZIWgqBzFowqoYTLpJD9fBwVyFDeB7nIVPrQGoeg0/edit?tab=t.0Most people chasing success let themselves slip before they let their business or team down. Why? Because they’ve lost connection with the mission, the destination, and the identity of the leader they need to become.In this raw and honest episode, I break down what it really means to live a high performance life?Not just in business, but in your body, mindset, and energy. This isn’t about motivation. It’s about standards. It’s about choice. And it’s about calling out the stories that keep you stuck in survival mode while pretending you’re operating at the top.We’ll cover:Why most high achievers still come last in their own processThe myth of “I don’t have time” and how to flip itHow to train, eat, and think like someone who leads under pressureWhat the BFP standard really looks like in real lifeThis episode is for entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders who are done being reactive and ready to lead with intentionality, intensity, and identity.You’re not built for pressure until you can operate at pace and bring others with you.🔗 Connect with me:Linkedin: @willfodenInstagram: @willfodenWebsite www.builtforpressure.net#LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
The One Challenge I’ve Never Spoken About (Until Now)As a high achiever, I’ve always taken pride in being the workhorse.Relentless, consistent, always “on” to which that output level became part of my identity. But recently, being away forced me to face something I’ve never shared publicly: the guilt, anxiety, and internal pressure that came with trying to switch off.In this episode, I set the scene of what it felt like to step away from the usual chaos and what I was bumping up against not just the fear of slowing down, but the belief that high performance can’t coexist with presence and peace.I share my turning point, including insights from a powerful call with Jay Hedley, and how I shifted from compulsive doing to intentional execution. I combated this by stacking my week, permitting myself to be present, and still driving results.You’ll hear how:My clients continued progressing without my constant involvementTwo new startups launchedI still trained, ate well, and even hit PBs with no gymKey takeaways:Compulsion kills clarityDefine what must be done, and communicate it (to yourself and others)Growth doesn’t always look like grind — sometimes, presence is the edgeYour standards follow you when they’re truly embodiedIf you struggle with switching off, redefining success, or allowing yourself space without guilt, this one is for you.If you want to learn more about how to work with me here's the doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m5OZIWgqBzFowqoYTLpJD9fBwVyFDeB7nIVPrQGoeg0/edit?tab=t.0#LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
If you're not getting the results you want, in your career, training, or life then this is the video you need to watch.In this After Action Review, first implemented by the SWAT team, we break down exactly why high level professionals hit performance plateaus… and what elite teams do differently. This isn’t motivational fluff. It’s about measuring what matters, assessing honestly, and planning with precision — the same principles tactical units use to stay ahead under pressure.You’ll learn:How to run a personal AAR to unlock your next levelWhy most people don’t improve (and how to fix that)The mindset shift from "doing more" to "executing better"A simple framework to review, recalibrate, and dominate your next moveWhether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, athlete, or just someone who refuses to settle, this debrief will challenge your thinking about progress.If you want to learn more about how to work with me heres the doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nG2ZQSP6mse3MxsQtB4Ocm2tlAm4TSwzFC3i5f4lwb0/edit?tab=t.0 #LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
In this episode, we break down the essential science-backed habits that will help you win the morning and set the tone for a high-performance day.We dive into the 5 key elements of a powerful morning routine:Hydration: Why drinking water first thing primes your brain and body for peak function.Sunlight: How natural light within the first 30 60 minutes of waking regulates your circadian rhythm, boosts mood, and sharpens focus.Movement: The importance of low-intensity movement to activate your nervous system, increase blood flow, and elevate energy.Caffeine Timing: When to drink your first coffee for maximum focus without the mid-morning crash.Digital Discipline: Why delaying phone use allows your brain to fully “boot up” and protect your mental bandwidth for what matters most.This episode is for you if you want to perform better at work, feel more in control of your day, and build a routine that supports long-term energy and clarity.If you've had enough of not seeing progress here, how can you work alongside us? https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nG2ZQSP6mse3MxsQtB4Ocm2tlAm4TSwzFC3i5f4lwb0/edit?tab=t.0 #LeadershipPerformance
How to Own Your Day, Not Just Survive ItMost high performers don’t have a time problem.They have a prioritisation problem. In this episode, we unpack what having a High Impact Day truly means.In this episode, learn:- How do you prioritise yourself with your diary without dropping the ball?- How to use white space to make better decisions- How do you plan and execute like a pro without feeling you're just reacting to everything? Whether you're an executive, entrepreneur or elite professional, this episode will show you how to reclaim your diary, reset your focus and build a day that reflects the future you want, not the chaos you’ve accepted.If you want to learn more about how to work with me heres the doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nG2ZQSP6mse3MxsQtB4Ocm2tlAm4TSwzFC3i5f4lwb0/edit?tab=t.0 #LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
Most people set goals. Few know how to close the gap.In this episode, I break down the difference between vague ambition and clear, high-hard goals—the kind that stretch you, demand your focus, and actually pull performance out of you.You’ll learn:Why Q3 is the make-or-break quarter for high achieversThe truth about “the gap” between where you are and where you want to beWhy process beats outcome (and why chasing outcomes is what kills most goals)How to set clear goals that create daily alignment and eliminate driftThe exact mindset and systems needed to stay hyperfocused under pressureThis episode is your reset button. If you’ve been drifting, distracted, or stuck in outcome obsession, it’s time to rebuild your process and get locked in for the next 90 days.Listen, if you're ready to:- Turn goals into a strategy- Get out of the fog and into the fight- Win Q3 with intention, energy, and precisionIf you want to more or need a hand with your Q3 focus, DM the word "Q3" and send you a free evaluation guide on attaining your goals and taking action moving forward. Instagram → @willfodenLinkeIn → @willfodenIf you want to learn more about how to work with me heres the doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nG2ZQSP6mse3MxsQtB4Ocm2tlAm4TSwzFC3i5f4lwb0/edit?tab=t.0
Why Your Perfectionism Is Killing Progress (And Feeding Imposter Syndrome)Perfection isn't what you think it is.In fact, it's likely the exact thing holding you back.In this episode, I unpack why high-performing professionals often wear perfection like a badge of honour — but underneath it is fear, ego, and a false standard that’s stopping progress in its tracks.We’ll break down:Why perfection is a mask for fear and uncertaintyHow chasing the “perfect time” has kept you stuck for yearsThe five ways perfectionism is quietly sabotaging your growthWhy momentum dies when perfection takes the wheelThe difference between elite standards and toxic expectationsThe mindset shift that separates stalled professionals from relentless performers"If you're waiting until it's perfect, you're also avoiding the version that would teach you the most."And if you’re tired of being in your own way, we’ve built something to help.If you want a copy of our Leadership Audit — a 5-minute checklist to recalibrate your performance, reset your standards, and give you a clear edge moving forward, then DM the word AUDIT and I'll send it for free. Perfect is the pause button. Progress is the play.If you want to learn more about how to work with me heres the doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nG2ZQSP6mse3MxsQtB4Ocm2tlAm4TSwzFC3i5f4lwb0/edit?tab=t.0 #LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
Stop Talking About Standards, Show Me Them.Anyone can say they’re about high performance. But real performance isn’t a slogan—it’s an identity you live, day in and day out. In this episode, I break down the difference between talking about “holding the standard” and embodying it.I share my personal story—from injury and self-doubt to being in the worst shape of my life—and the moment I decided enough was enough. Waiting for the perfect time? It doesn’t exist. You don’t need more motivation—you need a system.We’ll unpack the cycles of change and the five key steps to build real behavioural integration:Create a game plan you understandReduce friction in your daily actionsAvoid decision-making fatigueWork in focused sprintsStop relying on emotion—use it as feedback, not fuelThis episode is for anyone ready to stop performing on potential and start performing on purpose. Your next level is waiting are you prepared to show it?
In this episode, we're joined by Dylan Goddard, a seasoned personal trainer with over 30,000 hours of hands-on experience. From stepping into a gym at just 12 years old and overcoming a significant knee injury at 18, to moving across the globe to Singapore at 26 and competing at the highest levels in CrossFit for eight years, Dylan shares his journey through athletic pressures, personal growth, and elite performance.Now, as co-founder of Elvte Gym, a pioneering elite training facility in Singapore's bustling CBD, Dylan reveals how he and his team are disrupting the fitness industry. He discusses how critical self-awareness, intentional training, and adaptability became essential components of his approach, especially after becoming a parent and balancing shorter yet impactful 30-minute sessions.We delve deep into the concept of the 'corporate athlete', breaking myths around high-intensity workouts and advocating for smarter, more sustainable training methods. Dylan emphasises the importance of education and bodybuilding fundamentals in achieving peak physical and mental performance.Tune in to discover the core values behind Elvte Gym, how Dylan guides clients back to peak shape, and valuable leadership lessons he would pass on to his younger self.Learn more about Dylan and Elvte Gym:Website: https://elvtesg.rezerv.co/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dyl.goddard/#LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
What does performance actually mean—and are you truly living it? In this episode, I dive into my personal relationship with performance and why I believe athletic performance is the ultimate gateway to creating real impact in every area of life.We unpack what high performance really looks like beyond the physical—touching on human optimisation, biometrics, sleep, recovery, mental capacity, and performance-based nutrition. I’ll share how holding an athletic standard shapes mindset and why asking “What would an athlete do?” has become a powerful lens for decision-making.If you want to go beyond surface-level effort and build a life around excellence, this conversation is your starting point.#LeadershipPerformance #Highperformance #ExecutiveMindset #PeakPerformance #BusinessLeadership #EnergyManagement #ResilientLeadership #OptimizeYourself#mentalclarity #peakperformance #PersonalStandards#SuccessUnderPressure #EntrepreneurLife #ElitePerformance #ProductivityHacks #CEOHealth #sustainablesuccess #leadershipdevelopment #worklifebalance #trainsmart #masteryourenergy
In this episode, we unpack a powerful truth: stress isn’t the enemy—it’s a tool. Why Business Leaders Need Stress To Perform dives into how high-performing entrepreneurs and leaders can use stress to sharpen their edge rather than burn out.We explore the role of the central nervous system in handling pressure, staying regulated in chaos, and maintaining performance when it matters most. You’ll learn how to shift from reactive to responsive, how to stay grounded through uncertainty, and why learning to regulate your internal state is the key to leading effectively under stress.If you’re building, leading, or navigating intense seasons—this conversation will change how you view challenge, pressure, and personal resilience.
In this episode, I share three powerful lessons from the first KSA Immersion: why nothing outperforms true connection, the importance of finding people who thrive under pressure, and the impact of working alongside elite operators like Nicholas Hurlston and Owen Satterley. This one’s personal—and a reminder of what it takes to lead at the highest level.
Priming to PerformPerformance isn’t just about showing up—it’s about preparing your mind and body to rise when it counts. In this episode, we explore what it really means to prime yourself to perform under pressure. You'll hear why chasing pressure isn’t something to fear but something to lean into—and how learning to trust yourself in those moments is the ultimate competitive edge. Whether you're walking into a boardroom, starting a race, or pushing for your next breakthrough, this episode is your mental warm-up to show up sharp, focused, and ready to win.