The High Performance Podcast

High Performance

Welcome to High Performance. Through fascinating conversations with remarkable guests, Jake Humphrey and Damian Hughes uncover the secrets behind High Performance and explore how we can all become the best version of ourselves.

We focus on uncovering the learnings from top performers in every field, from sport to entertainment, business, health and wellness. No matter where our guests have excelled, they all have first-hand experiences and lessons to share.

On High Performance we find out what non-negotiable behaviours they employed to get them to the top and keep them there.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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743 episodes
Updated Monday

Episodes743

Newest first

Jul 7, 2025 · 1 hr 26 min
How Cadillac Are Secretly Building an F1 Superteam: Team Boss Graeme Lowdon (E359)
Graeme Lowdon is a seasoned motorsport executive best known for co-founding the Marussia F1 Team. In this episode, Graeme dives into the heartbeat of Formula One as the ultimate team game. He shares how success isn’t just about speed or strategy, but about having a diverse group of talented individuals united by a common purpose. Graeme also opens up about the difficult moments that come with the sport, especially handling loss and uncertainty. He talks candidly about the emotional impact when a team member is hurt and the importance of resilience and trust during those times. This episode offers a rare, honest look at what it takes to build and lead in one of the toughest environments in sport. 🚨 Partners Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://highpfrmc.com/heights1 HP 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-events Explore offers and discounts through our other partners: https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jul 4, 2025 · 24 min
Who are you without your job, role, or title?
Who are you when the job title drops away? This episode digs deep into the question we often avoid but desperately need to ask ourselves. Jake and Damian dive into the importance of knowing who you are beyond your role, sharing honest and powerful insights from guests like Simon Sinek, Phil Heath, Ali Abdaal, and John McAvoy. They unpack how easy it is to confuse identity with achievement, and why that can leave us lost when the spotlight fades. From writing your own obituary to asking a friend what truly makes you you, this episode offers simple yet profound ways to reconnect with your real self, beyond the job, the status, or the performance. It’s a grounding reminder to live with purpose, let go of regret, and define success on your own terms. Listen to the episodes mentioned: Simon Sinek: https://pod.fo/e/18ee0e Phill Heath: https://pod.fo/e/2313e6 Ali Abdaal: https://pod.fo/e/213471 John McAvoy: https://pod.fo/e/f0815 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jul 2, 2025 · 27 min
The Secret to Handling Tough Criticism, with Gordon Ramsay
When you think of Gordon Ramsay, you probably think of shouting, sarcasm, and one-liners hot enough to sear a steak. But behind the fire is a habit that’s far more important than the volume: He takes feedback professionally, not personally. In this episode, we go beyond the reputation and dig into the mindset that helped Gordon rise, not just to fame, but to genuine mastery. From his early football dreams to Michelin-starred kitchens, Ramsay shares how embracing criticism, and choosing to learn from it instead of defending against it, changed everything. We explore: Why your first reaction to feedback is rarely your best What neuroscience tells us about why feedback feels so threatening The “three-beat” rule that can shift how you respond A better way to give feedback: the feedforward method How humility, not ego, fuels real growth Whether you're leading a team, learning a craft, or just trying to handle tough conversations better, this episode is for you. Because growth isn’t about never being wrong. It’s about what you do when someone tells you you are. Listen to the full episode with Gordon Ramsay: https://pod.fo/e/1fa614 Here is more information on the studies referenced: The effects of feedback interventions on performance, published in Psychological Bulletin: Avraham N. Kluger & Angelo DeNisi (1996) Feedforward approach Avraham N. Kluger & Dina Nir (2010) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 30, 2025 · 1 hr 12 min
Mark Cuban: Shark Tank Entrepreneur on Why You Have No Choice But to Adopt AI (E358)
Mark Cuban is a billionaire entrepreneur, Shark Tank investor, and the outspoken former owner of the Dallas Mavericks. In this episode, he shares how transforming the Mavericks wasn’t just about stats, it was about building a culture. From upgrading hotels to investing in skill development, Cuban shows how leadership and empathy can shape winning teams. He also dives into the AI revolution, offering sharp advice for young people and entrepreneurs ready to take advantage of the biggest tech shift in generations. This episode is packed with practical insight, real talk, and a fresh look at success from someone who’s seen it all. 🚨 Partners AG1 👉 Join Jake and top performers using AG1. Click the link and get an offer worth £68: https://hppod.co/ag1 HP 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-events Explore offers and discounts through our other partners: https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 27, 2025 · 35 min
The Harsh Reality of Life Outside the Tennis Elite
Think pro tennis is all glamour? Think again. In this episode, Jake and Damian sit down with former Irish Tennis pro Conor Niland, who reached a high of No 129 in the world, to explore the untold reality of life on the tour for the 99% of players who never make the headlines. Conor got within one set of playing Federer at Wimbledon and faced Djokovic at the US Open. Learn why most pros can lose more than they win—yet still keep swinging. They unpack what success really means beyond trophies and TV appearances, the mental toll of chasing rankings, and why true high performance often lies in resilience, not recognition. From redefining winning to managing pressure and failure, this honest conversation offers a powerful reminder that personal growth often matters more than public glory. Conor's award-winning book 'The Racket' is out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 25, 2025 · 30 min
How To Make Fast and Accurate Decisions | The OODA Loop
Triple H didn’t just dominate in the ring, he learned how to read a room, shift direction in real time, and lead an entire industry by listening closely. In this episode, we unpack the surprising psychology behind his success and explore how the powerful mental model known as the OODA loop (Observe. Orient. Decide. Act.) can help anyone make faster, smarter decisions under pressure. We also explore how great leaders don’t chase control, they build awareness, stay flexible, and move with purpose. From the energy of the arena to the dynamics of boardrooms and creative endeavors, real-time feedback is the key to sustained high performance. If you’ve ever felt stuck in indecision, overwhelmed by input, or unsure how to respond in fast-moving moments, this episode offers a blueprint. It’s not about wrestling. It’s about reading the moment, and rising to it. Listen to the full episode with Triple H: https://pod.fo/e/2c762a Here is more information on the studies referenced: John Boyd & The OODA Loop (referenced in Psych Safety), Col. John R. Boyd, USAF Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 23, 2025 · 1 hr 24 min
Dan Burn: From Silent Suffering to Rewriting Newcastle’s Story (E357)
Premier League Defender Dan Burn opens up about the impact of Eddie Howe’s leadership, how genuine communication and taking the time to connect with players makes a difference beyond just tactics. He reflects on the rollercoaster journey from near relegation to competing in the Champions League, and how winning the League Cup wasn’t just about the trophy itself, but the collective grit and unity that got them there. The conversation also dives into the emotional highs and lows of chasing silverware and carrying the weight of a club desperate for glory. From the League Cup final to Champions League qualification, Burn doesn't just talk about the games, he talks about the journey. This episode offers real insight into the heart of Newcastle United, through the voice of someone who lives and breathes it. 🚨 Partners Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://hppod.co/20heights HP 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-events Explore offers and discounts through our other partners: https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 20, 2025 · 32 min
The Truth About Pressure: What It Builds in You
Pressure shows up at the front door in broad daylight, stress lurks in the shadows of your own mind. One is the world’s expectation. The other is your own resistance to it. In this episode, Jake and Damian unpack the crucial difference between pressure and stress, and why understanding it can transform how you handle challenges. Drawing insights from guests like Tom Aspinall, Steve Hansen, Barry Hearn, and Alistair Campbell, they explore how top performers prepare for pressure, ground themselves in high-stakes moments, and reframe fear into freedom. With practical tools and powerful stories, this episode is a guide to staying centred when life speeds up, listen in as Jake and Damian share how to turn pressure into progress and stress into strength. Listen to episodes mentioned: Tom Aspinall:https://pod.fo/e/2d3d2e Steve Hansen: https://pod.fo/e/1ecdda Barry Hearn: https://pod.fo/e/157c60 Alistair Campbell: https://pod.fo/e/f40aa Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 18, 2025 · 34 min
The 90 Second Habit That Can Change Your Life, with Mo Gawdat
Mo lost his son, Ali, in a tragic and avoidable surgery. It’s the kind of grief that could break anyone. But instead of shutting down, he turned toward the pain, with honesty, logic, and a question that changed everything: Can we train ourselves to be happy, even after heartbreak? One insight stood out: the 90-second rule. According to Mo (and backed by neuroscience), our emotions only physically last 90 seconds. What happens after that? That’s on us. In this episode, we explore how to ride that first emotional wave, how to challenge the stories our brain creates, and how three simple questions can help us shift from reaction to intention. This isn’t about pretending everything’s okay. It’s about learning how to respond when it isn’t. If you’ve ever felt hijacked by your emotions, or just wanted a way to move through them with more clarity, this one’s worth your time. Listen to the full episode with Mo Gawdat: https://pod.fo/e/140b32 Here is more information on the studies referenced: 1. 90 Second Emotion Rule (Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, 2006), My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey 2. Space Between Stimulus and Response (Viktor Frankl, 1946), Man’s Search for Meaning Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 16, 2025 · 1 hr 18 min
Sam Allardyce: From Relegation Hero to England’s Fall Guy - What It Taught Me
Sam Allardyce is one of English football’s most seasoned and straight-talking managers, known as much for his no-nonsense attitude as for his deep understanding of the game. With a career spanning decades, he’s led clubs like Bolton, West Ham, and Everton, and even had a brief but infamous spell as England manager. In this episode, Big Sam opens up about what it really takes to build a football club from the ground up. From keeping your job long enough to make lasting changes, to scouting better players and improving performance fast, he lays out the reality of trying to grow while constantly under pressure. He also reflects on his time in charge of England and the regret over how that chapter ended, showing a more reflective and human side to his story. The conversation also dives into Allardyce’s more forward-thinking strategies, like bringing cryotherapy into football before it was cool, and using player data to back up tough decisions. This episode offers an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what football management is really like, tough, complex, and full of lessons you won’t find in a textbook. 🚨 Partners AG1 👉 Join Jake and top performers using AG1. Click the link and get an offer worth £68: https://hppod.co/ag1 HP 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-events Explore offers and discounts through our other partners: https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 13, 2025 · 29 min
How to Stop Letting People Put You in a Box
You don’t have to be who the world tells you to be, and sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is step outside the box others have put you in. In this episode, Jake and Damian dive into the idea of breaking free from the labels others place on us, and the ones we place on ourselves. Through compelling reflections and lessons from guests like Rio Ferdinand, Fearne Cotton, Tom Kerridge, and Lee Child, they unpack how we can reclaim our identities and live more purposefully. From Rio’s determination to be more than a footballer, to Fearne’s courageous shift away from mainstream TV, and Tom and Lee’s decisions to redefine their lives in the face of challenge, this episode uncovers what it means to live beyond expectation. Listen in as they offer practical insights into redefining yourself on your own terms, and why embracing multiple identities may be the key to a more fulfilled, high-performance life. Listen to the full episodes featured: Rio Ferdinand: https://pod.fo/e/15914 Fearne Cotton: https://pod.fo/e/1021d8 Tom Kerridge: https://pod.fo/e/22356e Lee Child: https://pod.fo/e/10a24a Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 11, 2025 · 36 min
Muhammad Ali’s Leadership Habit That Set Him Apart
Undefeated boxing champion and entrepreneur Laila Ali takes us ringside, then into the heart of what it means to belong. In this episode of Essential Habits, we uncover the deceptively simple practice her father, Muhammad Ali, modeled again and again: looking after the person no one else notices. Through Laila’s stories, from waiting in queues of adoring fans to earning her father’s reluctant blessing to box, we learn how true leadership is less about spotlight and more about presence. By tuning into the quiet moments and the people at the back of the line, we tap into a habit that transforms culture, boosts trust, and fuels high performance. In this episode, we explore: - Why 'the last person in line' matters more than the loudest voice - The neurobiology of inclusion and how exclusion literally hurts - Three simple shifts to build social awareness every day - How Laila earned her father’s respect and claimed her own greatness - What high-performing teams gain when everyone feels seen Whether you lead a team, a family, or just want to notice people more fully, this episode shows why the smallest acts of attention can have the biggest impact. Listen to the full episode with Laila Ali: https://pod.fo/e/265de7 Here is a link to more information on the studies referenced: 1. The Good Samaritan Study (Darley & Batson, 1973) 2. Ingroup Bias and Empathy (fMRI Study, 2006) 3. The Spotlight Effect (Gilovich, Medvec, & Savitsky, 2000) 4. The Bystander Effect (Darley & Latané, 1968) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 9, 2025 · 1 hr 20 min
Dominic Calvert-Lewin: My Story on Being Misunderstood, Judged, But Resilient (E355)
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a Premier League striker known for his athleticism, drive, and key role at Everton FC. But beyond the goals and headlines, he’s also faced a tough road of injuries, personal setbacks, and intense pressure. In this episode, Dominic opens up about some of his lowest moments, times when injury left him feeling broken and lost. He talks candidly about the pressure to bounce back quickly, the mental toll of feeling stuck, and what it really took to dig deep and keep going. He also reflects on the importance of having a strong support system, especially the role his wife and family play in keeping him grounded. Dominic shares how communicating openly about his feelings, even when it meant shedding tears, was a crucial step toward healing and growth. This episode is a raw and real look at growth, mental toughness, and finding strength through struggle. 🚨 Partners Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://hppod.co/20heights HP 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-events Explore offers and discounts through our other partners: https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 6, 2025 · 56 min
Chris Voss: The FBI’s #1 Negotiator on Winning Without Saying a Word
In this episode, we revisit a powerful conversation with Chris Voss, former FBI lead hostage negotiator and bestselling author of Never Split the Difference. In this insightful discussion with Jake and Damian, Chris shares his unique approach to communication, showing how the skills he used in life-or-death negotiations can transform the way we handle everyday conversations. From business meetings to family dynamics, Chris explains why listening more and speaking less can lead to better outcomes in every area of life. Listen in as Chris delivers practical, transformative strategies to help you navigate pressure, connect with others, and negotiate like your life depends on it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 4, 2025 · 34 min
How Asking One Hard Question Builds Deeper Trust, with Alain de Botton
This new Essential Habits series breaks down the key habits behind high performance, one episode at a time. This week’s habit is deceptively simple: asking better questions. Philosopher Alain de Botton joins us to explore how a single, uncomfortable question, “How have I annoyed you?” can deepen trust, defuse tension, and create stronger connections in every part of life. Whether it’s at home, at work, or with close friends, we often avoid the conversations that would help us grow. Alain shows us a different way, one built on emotional generosity, honest listening, and the courage to be vulnerable. In this episode, we explore: Why awkward questions build trust How to listen without getting defensive The science behind emotional connection What high-performing teams can learn from philosophy The hidden power of backstories and being 'truly heard' Here is a list of studies referenced in the episode: The Experimental Generation of Interpersonal Closeness. Arthur Aron, Elaine Aron (1997) Understanding the conversation gap: Why employees aren’t talking, and what we can do about it (Braverly), referenced in How to Navigate Difficult Conversations with Employees. Harvard Negotiation Project Rejection Really Hurts, published in Science (Oct 2003). University Of California - Los Angeles Daring Greatly by Brené Brown Listen to the full episode with Alain De Botton here: https://pod.fo/e/1f5db0 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jun 2, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
John Legend: Beyond the Headlines of Miscarriage, Kanye West Fallout & the Hidden Cost of Stardom (E354)
John Legend is a singer, songwriter, and producer known for his soulful voice, emotional depth, and ability to cross genres with ease. With multiple Grammy Awards, an EGOT to his name, and a career that’s spanned decades, John has also become a voice for compassion, activism, and vulnerability in the public eye. In this episode, John opens up about some of the most intimate moments of his life, his complicated relationship with his mother, who faced deep struggles after family tragedies, and how that shaped him growing up. He also talks about the heartbreaking experience he and his wife, Chrissy Teigen, went through with the loss of their baby, and how sharing that pain publicly became a way to heal and help others facing similar grief. John also reflects on his once close bond with Kanye West, a friendship that deeply influenced his early music career but has since grown distant. This episode offers a raw and honest exploration of vulnerability, healing, and the strength it takes to navigate life’s toughest moments while staying true to yourself. 🚨 Partners Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://hppod.co/20heights HP 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-events Explore offers and discounts through our other partners: https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 30, 2025 · 29 min
The Voice in Your Head Can Make or Break You
The voice in your head can either push you forward or hold you back. In this episode, Jake and Damian delve into the powerful impact of self-talk on performance, mindset, and emotional well-being. They explore how the inner dialogue we carry can shape our identity, build resilience, or quietly sabotage our efforts, depending on how we manage it. Revisiting insightful conversations with guests like Denise Lewis, Dr. Steve Peters, Pippa Grange, Aldo Kane, and Tom Daley, Jake and Damian highlight how elite performers consciously train their inner voice just as much as their bodies and they share practical tools for turning your inner critic into a trusted coach. Listen in as they unpack the science and stories behind mastering self-talk, revealing how understanding the voice in your head can be the difference between breaking down or breaking through. Listen to the episodes mentioned: Denise Lewis: https://pod.fo/e/2c05ac Steve Peters: https://pod.fo/e/298713 Pippa Grange: https://pod.fo/e/10bc10 Aldo Kane: https://pod.fo/e/2885c1 Tom Daley: https://pod.fo/e/1760c Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 28, 2025 · 35 min
How Sharing Good News Changes Everything, with James Timpson
Sometimes, the most radical thing a leader can do is trust. That’s what struck me in my conversation with James Timpson, not just the results he’s achieved, but the mindset behind them. James runs a business where people matter more than policies, and where the golden rules aren’t about performance metrics, they’re about showing up, looking the part, and doing the right thing. In this episode, I dig into the psychology behind what makes James’s approach so powerful, from the science of capitalisation to how active, constructive responses can build trust, loyalty, and even generosity. When you lead with belief in people, you don’t just change behaviour, you transform lives. If you’ve ever wondered whether kindness can scale, or if culture really can be your competitive edge, this one might just shift your thinking. Here is a list of studies referenced in the episode: What Do You Do When Things Go Right? The Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Benefits of Sharing Positive Events - Authors: Shelly Gable, Harry Reis, Emily Impett, Evan Asher Will You Be There for Me When Things Go Right? Supportive Responses to Positive Event Disclosures - Authors: Shelly Gable, Gian Gonzaga, Ashley Strachman Are You Happy for Me? How Sharing Positive Events With OthersProvides Personal and Interpersonal Benefits - Authors: Harry Reis, Shannon Smith, Cheryl Carmichael, Peter Caprariello Listen to the full episode with James Timpson here: https://pod.fo/e/c4dbd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 26, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min
Callum Wilson: Opening Up About His Haunted Past and the Battles You Didn’t See (E353)
Callum Wilson is a Premier League striker known for his sharp finishing and explosive pace on the pitch; but off it, he has an equally powerful story. Warning: this episode contains themes of suicide and trauma. In this episode, Callum opens up about the darker side of his upbringing, including dealing with suicidal thoughts as a teen and the emotional scars that came with growing up in chaos. He reflects on how football gave him a sense of direction and purpose when everything else felt unstable. He also shares the impact of Eddie Howe, who became a father figure, and how therapy helped him face long-buried trauma. From two ACL injuries to mentoring younger players, Callum reflects on resilience, growth, and staying grounded. This episode dives into mental health, fatherhood, football, and the power of second chances. If you, or someone you know who's struggling - please call Samaritans on 116123 or CALM on 0800 58 58 58. 🚨 Partners Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://hppod.co/20heights HP 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-events Explore offers and discounts through our other partners: https://hppod.co/partners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 23, 2025 · 16 min
Essential Habits You Can Use Everyday
Today Jake and Damian break down why your habits matter more than you think. Did you know 43% of what you do each day is habit, not conscious choice? That means nearly half your day is lived on autopilot. So where is your autopilot taking you? This episode breaks down: Why tiny daily actions shape your entire identity How Sam Tomkins, James Clear, and Jo Malone use micro habits to stay sharp How to journal proof of your progress The 3 questions to ask yourself before any task And why folding your clothes well might just change your life Damian and Jake dig into practical, science-backed tools you can use today to start living more intentionally—and performing at your best without burning out. Plus: The start of Damian’s new series on Essential Habits drops Wednesdays in the feed. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss out. Listen to the full length episodes referenced in this podcast: Sam Tomkins: https://pod.fo/e/14cdef Jo Malone: https://pod.fo/e/bbdc9 James Clear: https://pod.fo/e/16868c Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.