The High Performance Podcast

We welcome Manchester’s very own Aitch, a BRIT award-winning rapper known for his sharp lyrics, infectious beats, and down-to-earth attitude. From his early days freestyling with friends to topping the charts, Aitch has quickly become one of the most exciting voices in British music.In this episode, Aitch opens up to Jake and Damian about his music journey, sharing how growing up in Manchester shaped his career and gave him the drive to succeed in the music industry. He discusses his creative process, turning real-life experiences into relatable tracks, and opens up about handling criticism, staying true to himself, and overcoming negativity. Aitch also highlights the importance of having a strong support system, including his manager and sister Gracie, and his dedication to giving back to the community, especially supporting those with disabilities, ensuring everyone has the same opportunities in life. Having worked with notable artists like Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Stormzy, and AJ Tracey, Aitch shares the valuable lessons he's gained from these collaborations and the lasting impact these experiences have had on his music career.This episode provides a glimpse into Aitch's inspiring journey and how he remains authentic while making his mark in the music industry.Aitch is set to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for Down’s Syndrome, a cause close to his heart due to his sister Gracie. If you’d like to support his charity effort, you can donate here: https://downssyndrome.enthuse.com/pf/aitch🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPThanks to Vanta for sponsoring this video! Get $1,000 off Vanta at https://vanta.yt.link/3KbQMbA.Explore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

This week, Jake and Damian sat down with none other than the fastest man alive, Usain Bolt. As part of a very special live recording at IFS Unleashed 2024, Usain shares candid insights about his remarkable journey from early setbacks to world-record-breaking victories.In this episode, Usain dives deep into his goal-setting process, revealing the mindset that led him to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals. Drawing inspiration from legends like Michael Johnson and Muhammad Ali, he discusses how he maintained his motivation and transformed early challenges into opportunities for success.Reflecting on his early career, Usain talks about the immense pressure of representing Jamaica and how he handled the weight of national expectations. He also opens up about his struggles after retirement and the intense pull he felt to return to the track, highlighting the challenges of letting go. Usain recounts his journey from setbacks in 2004 to achieving a world record in 2008, highlighting how those early losses ignited his determination to succeed.Filled with stories of triumph and lessons learned, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of a champion, exploring the themes of perseverance and the dedication it takes to achieve greatness.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 at https://hppod.co/HeightsFORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPHP 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/foundationExplore offers and discounts through our other partners: https://hppod.co/partners

As Movember approaches, Jake and Damian catch up to discuss the critical role that health plays in achieving high performance. Movember is a global initiative that raises awareness about men's mental and physical health, making it the perfect time for them to reflect on the importance of taking care of yourself, not just for success, but to truly enjoy the fruits of that success.In this episode, Jake and Damian reflect on lessons from guests like Michael Johnson, David Smith, Billy Monger, and Mark Cavendish, emphasising the importance of overcoming challenges, spending quality time with loved ones, and prioritising activities that boost well-being. They highlight the value of focusing on health when you're feeling good to prevent neglect during tough times, and stress the need for therapy, likening emotional wellness to a bucket that can overflow if not managed; an essential consideration for every man’s well-being.Listen in to hear more about how understanding your emotions and taking care of your mental and physical health can lead to a balanced and fulfilled life. Listen to the episodes mentioned:Michael Johnson: https://pod.fo/e/254ca8David Smith: https://pod.fo/e/1ef288Billy Monger: https://pod.fo/e/a8d2cMark Cavendish: https://pod.fo/e/eb9c4

Dr. Federica Amati is a nutrition scientist and public health expert, with a passion for helping individuals understand the impact of their food choices. In this episode, she chats with Jake and Damian about her new book Everybody Should Know This, which dives deep into the fundamentals of food and its role in maintaining good health. Throughout their conversation, Dr. Federica reveals the inspiration behind her book and the powerful message it conveys. She explores the concept of metabolic flexibility and how it can be achieved through simple dietary changes. She also emphasises the importance of whole grains and fruits, discussing how these foods can boost longevity and overall health, while also offering tips to enhance metabolic well-being. Dr Federica addresses how the food industry often prioritises profit over health, highlighting the importance of being mindful about what we consume. She expands on the critical "first thousand days" of life, explaining how early nutrition shapes long-term health, and warns against the dangers of ultra-processed foods, especially for younger people. This episode is packed with actionable insights, covering topics from boosting metabolic flexibility to enhancing sleep quality through nutrition.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformance

James Blunt is an internationally acclaimed British singer-songwriter, best known for hits like "You're Beautiful." Before rising to fame in the music world, he served in the British Army, a chapter of his life that deeply influenced his artistic perspective.In this episode, James candidly discusses the early struggles of his music career, revealing how he dealt with the harsh criticism and negativity that first came his way. He also touches on his time in the military, sharing his decision-making process behind joining the army and the invaluable leadership lessons he gained that continue to shape him today.James opens up to Jake and Damian about his emotional challenges and how music became his outlet for self-expression. He recalls the inspiration behind his song dedicated to his father, revealing how songwriting became a way to articulate feelings he couldn't otherwise voice. He also discusses his friendship with the late Carrie Fisher and how her influence played a pivotal role in his acclaimed album, “Back To Bedlam”. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of music as a form of emotional expression.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformance

This episode is part of our ‘Startup to Standout’ mini-series, brought to you in partnership with Lloyds Bank. In this episode, Jake speaks with Rose, the founder of Flora & Curl, a natural hair care brand that focuses on plant-powered products for textured hair. They dive into the passion that drove Rose to create the business, sharing insights on cultivating a strong company culture, even in a remote work environment and ways to build long-term trust with customers. Rose opens up about the inspiration behind Flora & Curl, the importance of pursuing what you love, and how she built trust with her customers.She shares tips on building a welcoming culture, maintaining personal connections during the pandemic, and the natural ingredients that set her products apart. Rose also offers practical advice for anyone looking to start their own business. Lloyds Bank is helping businesses like Flora & Curl thrive, providing support and guidance on starting, managing, and growing a business. To learn more, visit the Lloyds Bank business website: https://hppod.co/lloyds-bankHP

In this episode, we revisit a thought-provoking conversation with Mel Robbins, the best-selling author, TV host, and motivational speaker known for her transformative insights on mindset, success, and personal growth. Looking back at this enlightening discussion with Jake and Damian, Mel discusses her unique perspective on personal growth, resilience, and the power of taking action. She shares key insights from her book The High 5 Habit, emphasising the importance of self-affirmation and personal growth in achieving high performance.Listen in as Mel provides practical strategies to elevate your mindset and boost your confidence, helping you unlock your full potential.Listen to the full episode: https://pod.fo/e/ed46f🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners: https://hppod.co/partners

Renowned physician and bestselling author, Dr. Gabor Maté, joins Jake and Damian for an insightful and transformative conversation. Known for his expertise in addiction, trauma, and mind-body health, Gabor brings decades of knowledge to the table, offering a unique perspective on personal well-being and healing.In this episode, Gabor discusses the science of compassionate parenting and how it can build stronger relationships with our children. He also shares tips on how to develop a sense of wholeness in our lives, explaining why this is key to personal growth and emotional balance. Gabor explores how stress can be triggered by uncertainty, conflict, and lack of control, and gives practical advice on how to manage these stressors. He also gives strategies for saying "no" more effectively and explains how unhelpful belief systems form. Gabor also offers tips on how to begin shifting those beliefs to improve self-esteem and mental health. This episode provides valuable insights, offering an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and the underlying causes of stress.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

In this episode, Jake and Damian dive into an intriguing conversation about the often-overlooked soft skill of kindness and its surprising role as a high performer. While many people often overlook kindness as just a nice trait, they emphasise that it’s actually a hidden power that can drive success in various fields. They discuss how kindness impacts lives in unexpected ways, from small gestures to life-altering support. Jake and Damian describe kindness as a trait many high performers embody quietly, without boasting, yet it's central to their success. They share insights from guests like Joe Hart, Lindsay Burrow, Sir Ian McGeechan, and Francis Ngannou, highlighting how acts of kindness and empathy have shaped their lives and careers, showing how compassion can transform someone's day or even their life.Listen in to hear Jake and Damian unpack the importance of kindness in high performance. Their engaging conversation not only highlights the transformative power of being kind but also challenges listeners to recognise the subtle ways kindness can influence their lives and the lives of those around them.Listen to the episodes mentioned:Joe Hart: https://pod.fo/e/24b0f2Lindsay Burrow: https://pod.fo/e/149343Sir Ian McGeechan: https://pod.fo/e/da9c4Francis Ngannou: https://pod.fo/e/21a419🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

Pete Wicks is a reality TV star, best known for his role on The Only Way is Essex, where his charismatic personality and love life dramas gained him a dedicated fanbase. Beyond the cameras, Pete has navigated many personal challenges, including mental health struggles, which he openly discusses to help others facing similar battles.In this episode, Pete sits with Jake to have an honest and raw conversation about mental health, anger, and personal growth. He reflects on how anger played a significant role in his life, especially during his younger years, and why it became a "safe space" for him. Together, Pete and Jake explore how therapy and recognising triggers can help in overcoming emotional struggles, along with discussing the healing process of addressing trauma. Through his personal stories and insights, Pete offers valuable takeaways on mental health and self-awareness. He shares how this mindset affects him in different areas of his life, including his experience on recent shows like Strictly Come Dancing, and whether public opinion affects him.This episode offers a raw and honest exploration of the complexities of anger, challenging the stigma around mental health. Their conversation is filled with honest reflections and insights on dealing with anger, trauma, and the importance of therapy.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

Otmar Szafnauer is a seasoned figure in the world of Formula 1, known for his leadership roles with teams like Force India, Aston Martin, and Alpine. Born in Romania and immigrating to the U.S. as a child, Otmar’s unique journey shaped his approach to success in one of the most high-stakes sports in the world. His ability to navigate challenges both on and off the track has earned him a respected reputation within the motorsport community. In this episode, Jake and Damian sit down with Otmar to explore his career highlights and personal philosophies. He shares insights on the importance of psychological safety in Formula 1, explaining how learning from mistakes is crucial, yet minimising them is key to sustained success. He reflects on his time at Force India, where he made a significant impact and established a reputation that emphasised trust and risk-taking.Otmar also opens up about his experiences as an immigrant and how that mindset has influenced his approach to decision-making. He talks candidly about his tenure at Aston Martin, where expectations didn’t quite align with reality, and delves into the controversial Oscar Piastri situation, providing behind-the-scenes details.This episode offers a fascinating look at leadership, decision-making, and the personal stories that shape a successful career in one of the most demanding sports in the world.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPBetterhelp 👉 Be at your best. Consider therapy with our paid partner, BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/PERFORMANCE for a 10% discount on your first month of therapy.Explore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

This episode is part of our ‘Startup to Standout’ mini-series, brought to you in partnership with Lloyds Bank. In this episode, Jake connects with entrepreneurs at Translate Culture, a company dedicated to helping businesses grow through innovative branding and cultural strategy. Together, they dive into the realities of running a business and share key lessons that can help startups navigate the challenging early stages of entrepreneurship.Jake speaks with Mas Manima, founder of Translate Culture, who shares the inspiring story of how the company came to be. Mas opens up about the challenges of the early days, collaborating with entrepreneurs, and his mission to establish a value-driven organisation. Jake also chats with Translate Culture's team members, gaining insights into their roles, the sacrifices made, and the significance of taking risks to achieve success. They further discuss the importance of work relationships and the need to maintain strong company values.Lloyds Bank offers the support and guidance needed to help entrepreneurs thrive. Whether you're just starting or scaling your business, Lloyds is committed to being a reliable partner in every way.

In this episode, we revisit a captivating conversation with comedian, actress, and presenter Katherine Ryan.Reflecting on her inspiring discussion with Jake and Damian, Katherine opens up about how her unwavering focus on her daughter’s well-being empowered her to pursue her stand-up career with fearless determination. Listen in as Katherine shares her journey from struggling as a single mom to making the decision to create space for women in the industry by stepping away from Mock the Week. She offers valuable insights on embracing positivity, leading with gratitude, and the true meaning of hard work.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Join some of the world’s top performers and millions globally choosing Huel everyday to shortcut their nutrition. Unlock your offer today at: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

Richard Osman is a well-known British television presenter, producer, and author, famous for co-creating and hosting the popular quiz show ‘Pointless’. Beyond TV, he is also an accomplished writer, best known for his bestselling crime fiction series, ‘The Thursday Murder Club’. Osman is recognised for his wit, intelligence, and distinctive presence on British television, despite having a more introverted personality.In this episode, Jake and Damian have a lively conversation with Richard, where he shares his first big break in front of the camera. He opens up about the anxiety of starting something new, sharing his philosophy on pushing through fear to achieve success.Richard also sheds light on the impact his brother, Mat Osman, has had on his career, explaining how his brother's creative journey inspired him. He reflects on his introverted nature and how it has shaped his career, as well as the benefits of feeling different from others. Richard also offers advice to those struggling to accept their own flaws, sharing tips on how to embrace individuality.This episode offers a mix of personal stories and valuable life lessons, from the power of resilience and self-acceptance to the benefits of embracing uniqueness.To hear a 30 minute extract from Richard’s new book, download the High Performance app at - hppod.co/app🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

Jake and Damian dive into an inspiring conversation, reflecting on the resilience needed to pick yourself up off the canvas. With Anthony Joshua recently knocked down yet expressing his readiness to rise again, they explore the importance of maintaining a positive mindset even in the face of setbacks. In this episode, Jake and Damian reflect on Joshua’s positive mindset, even when things don’t go as planned. They talk about how failure is a natural part of ambition, and how the most successful people often experience the most failures. Drawing from conversations with guests including Barry Hearn, Lee Child, and Tom Grennan, they highlight how struggles and setbacks can remind you of your strength, not your weakness.Listen in as Jake and Damian dive deeper into how to navigate life’s toughest moments, sharing some empowering lessons and insights into overcoming life’s challenges. For daily doses of motivation, check out Boost Stories on the High Performance App now: https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/hp-appListen to the episodes mentioned:Barry Hearn: https://pod.fo/e/157c60Lee Child: https://pod.fo/e/10a24aTom Grennan: https://pod.fo/e/185044🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Get £25 off the Taster Bundle. Unlock your offer here: http://huel.com/highperformanceHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

Ndamukong Suh is a dominant NFL defensive tackle known for his power, discipline, and leadership both on and off the field. A five-time Pro Bowl player, Suh has made his mark not only as one of the league's most feared defenders but also as an entrepreneur and businessman. Over his impressive career, he has built a reputation for his strong work ethic and strategic approach to the game.In this episode, Jake and Damian sit down with Suh to talk about his journey in the NFL, the importance of discipline, and what it takes to maintain success at the highest level. Suh opens up about his reputation, touching on how past events have shaped public perception, and whether it has affected him personally. They dive into Suh's experiences as a leader, exploring the criticism he faced when trying to be a "cultural architect" for his team and how he handled the pressure of being one of the league’s highest-paid players. Ndamukong also shares stories from his time playing alongside legends like Tom Brady, discussing their Super Bowl win and the lessons he learned from being part of such a high-caliber team. Beyond football, Suh opens up about his ambitions to expand beyond the sport, including his venture into the business world, where he hopes to apply the same drive and discipline that made him successful in the NFL. This episode offers a unique blend of sports insights, personal reflections, and motivational takeaways, showcasing how discipline and leadership extend far beyond the field. Credit - PBD Podcast for the Tom Brady clip🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Join some of the world’s top performers and millions globally choosing Huel everyday to shortcut their nutrition. Unlock your offer today at: https://hppod.co/HuelRunningHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

Phil Jones is a professional footballer best known for his time with Manchester United and the England national team. Renowned for his versatility and defensive skill, Phil’s career has been shaped by both incredible highs and personal challenges. His journey from Blackburn Rovers to Manchester United made him one of the sport's most recognisable faces.In this episode, Phil opens up his experiences in football, from the excitement of joining Manchester United to the difficulties of dealing with injuries. He discusses with Jake and Damian the mental toll that self-doubt, fear, and constant pressure took on him, and how he managed to rediscover his passion for the game. Phil also recounts his early triumph of winning the Premier League at just 21 and the realisation of what it truly means to play for a club as demanding as United. He shares lessons he’s learned from working under legendary managers like Sir Alex Ferguson. This episode offers valuable advice for anyone facing struggles, particularly young athletes, and provides a rare glimpse into the personal and professional challenges of a Premier League footballer.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Join some of the world’s top performers and millions globally choosing Huel everyday to shortcut their nutrition. Unlock your offer today at: https://hppod.co/HuelRunningHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

Introducing the ‘Startup to Standout’ mini-series, brought to you in partnership with Lloyds Bank. In this episode, Jake connects with business experts at Notpla to dig into the realities of entrepreneurship. Notpla is a cutting-edge company known for creating sustainable packaging solutions using seaweed, aiming to reduce environmental impact.Notpla co-founder Pierre-Yves Paslier discusses with Jake the inspiration behind their seaweed-based products, showing how they benefit the environment. He shares insights into the challenges of the early years of building the business and what it was like during the initial phases. Jake also chats with Karlijn Sibbel about Notpla's innovative approach and their next big goal: tackling packaging problems with new water barrier technologies. Karlijn also offers valuable advice on fostering innovation in business and prioritising creative thinking.Lloyds Bank’s purpose is to empower businesses with comprehensive support and guidance for starting, growing, and building a successful business. With their extensive expertise, Lloyds Bank is well-equipped to guide you on your business journey.

Lewis Howes is a former professional athlete, best-selling author, and host of the top-rated podcast “The School of Greatness”. Known for his passion for helping others unlock their potential, Lewis has built a reputation for diving deep into personal development and peak performance.In this episode, Lewis Howes joins Jake and Damian to share his journey to greatness and the lessons he's learned along the way. He opens up about how his understanding of success and greatness has evolved over time. Lewis also discusses the differences between chasing success for validation versus living a life of purpose, and how these realisations changed his outlook.He reflects on his personal battles, including overcoming trauma from his youth and facing his fear of public speaking, which once held him back. Lewis also dives into the story behind his podcast's success and shares strategies for those seeking to transform their lives. This conversation dives deep into the essence of living a truly great life, providing valuable advice for anyone navigating difficult times and looking for ways to overcome them.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Join some of the world’s top performers and millions globally choosing Huel everyday to shortcut their nutrition. Unlock your offer today at: https://hppod.co/HuelRunningHeights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20. Click here: https://hppod.co/HeightsFORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners

Mike Mancias is a renowned performance coach and trainer, best known for working with NBA legend LeBron James. With decades of experience in the sports world, Mike has become a key figure in helping athletes reach their peak performance through a combination of physical and mental training.In this episode, Mike sits down with Jake to discuss the strategies he uses to push LeBron James to new heights, focusing on consistency, mindset, and discipline. He opens up about his journey into the NBA and what it takes to stay on top in such a demanding field.Mike also touches on LeBron’s mentality at the Olympic Games and how they work together to overcome setbacks. He breaks down the importance of mental discipline and shares practical advice for those looking to achieve greatness, both in sports and everyday life.This episode provides insights into the daily routines that fuel the success of some of the world's greatest athletes.🚨 PartnersHuel 👉 Claim your FREE t-shirt HERE: https://hppod.co/huelHeights 👉 https://hppod.co/Heights Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20FORA 👉 Claim a free day pass at any Fora workspace and find the perfect home for your business here: https://hppod.co/FORAHPExplore offers and discounts through our other partners:https://hppod.co/partners