Following the passing of former England Football manager Sven-Göran Eriksson, Jake and Damian catch up to reflect on his life and the enduring legacy he left behind. In this episode, they explore Sven's journey as a football manager, his unique coaching style, and his influence on British sport.

Jake and Damian also highlight how Sven shaped the careers of football legends like David Beckham and Steven Gerrard. They chat with journalist Henry Winter, who had a long-standing relationship with Sven. Henry shares insights on what we can learn from Sven's approach to life and finding our version of High Performance, as well as how history might remember him.

Listen in as Jake and Damian discuss what Sven's legacy teaches us about authenticity, embracing our imperfections, and redefining success with a well-rounded perspective.

Thanks to Amazon Prime for allowing us to use Sven's parting message. Watch the full of documentary, 'Sven' on Amazon Prime now.

KSI is a multi-talented internet personality who has made a name for himself as a YouTuber, musician, and professional boxer. Known for his high-energy persona and relentless drive, KSI, whose real name is JJ Olatunji, continues to push boundaries across multiple fields, amassing a global fanbase.

In this episode, Jake sits down with KSI to dive into the complexities of balancing his various pursuits. KSI opens up about how he maintains his success across YouTube, music, and boxing, revealing the strategies that keep him at the top of his game.

He also discusses the difference between his public persona, "KSI," and his true self, JJ, shedding light on how he navigates the pressures that come with his multifaceted career.

This episode offers a raw and honest look at the complications of KSI’s life, exploring themes of self-discovery, the importance of communication, and the power of collaboration.

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We had the privilege of catching up with two remarkable athletes fresh from their medal success at the 2024 Olympic Games: Mountain Biker Tom Pidcock and Middle-Distance Runner Josh Kerr. 

In this episode, Jake takes a moment to reflect on Tom's candid insights into the importance of facing adversity head-on, the challenges he had to overcome to win the Olympic gold medal, and how embracing struggles, rather than avoiding them, was key to his success.

Jake also speaks with Josh Kerr to break down his intense rivalry and what really went down in the unforgettable 2024 Olympic race. Josh opens up about the mindset he adopted after securing the Olympic silver medal, the role of visualisation, and the importance of focusing on what he could control. He also touches on the sacrifices he made to reach this level, offering a candid look into the realities of elite competition. 

This episode offers a deep dive into the mental and emotional aspects of high performance, with Tom and Josh sharing valuable lessons on resilience, preparation, and the pursuit of excellence.

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Huel 👉 Claim your FREE t-shirt HERE: my.huel.com/hpblack

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Danny Drinkwater joins us on High Performance, taking this opportunity to announce his retirement from professional football. After an almost 20 year career, Danny takes some time to look back on his accomplishments, greatest lessons and biggest challenges.

After rising through the Youth Academy at Manchester United, Danny played for some of the country’s biggest clubs, including Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Leicester City. He takes Jake and Damian through his football career; from sitting on the bench at Manchester United aged 18, to being a key part of Leicester City’s Premier League winning squad. He shares the emotional rollercoaster of winning the Premier League, as well as the painful moment his Euro's opportunity was taken away. Having worked with legendary figures like Cristiano Ronaldo, Sir Alex Ferguson and Claudio Ranieri, Danny reflects on how they inspired and challenged him, both in his career and personal life.

Danny delves into what he believes makes a great football manager, emphasising the significance of personal management to bring out the best in players and build team momentum. They also discuss Danny’s difficult reality with mental health struggles, including dealing with rejection after new offers failed to materialise. Reflecting on his lowest point when he was arrested for drink-driving in 2019, Danny highlights the importance of mental health care and finding practical solutions to unhappiness.

This is a conversation about personal growth, overcoming the darkest moments and moving to a brighter future.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

In October, Jake and Damian spoke to a wide variety of guests, including a chef, philosopher, and physicist.

Jake and Damian take some time to reflect on they key lessons and biggest take-aways from each guest, including why we should embrace being wrong with Professor Brian Cox and why we should aim for averageness with Alain de Botton. With Alain they also discuss parenting, how to have a successful relationship and what high performance really means. Both Professor Brian Cox and Alain de Botton challenged Jake and Damian’s understanding of high performance.

Although both known for their work in the kitchen, Gordon Ramsay and Delia Smith offered very different learnings from their episodes. Gordon shares how he has pushed through life’s challenges to reach his best moments. Delia emphasises to Jake and Damian the importance of community building and how connection can improve our lives.

Listen to the episodes mentioned:

Professor Brian Cox: https://pod.fo/e/1f3c55

Alain de Botton: https://pod.fo/e/1f5db0

Delia Smith: https://pod.fo/e/1f82be

Gordon Ramsay: https://pod.fo/e/1fa614

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

On this episode: a rare and poignant conversation on the life, aspirations, and motivations of chef and TV icon, Gordon Ramsay.

“I don’t want to stay in my lane, I want to own my lane”

Gordon Ramsay is a chef, restaurateur and television presenter, known for Kitchen Nightmares, Masterchef and Hell’s Kitchen. In this conversation, Gordon delves deep into what really drives him, how to cultivate a winning mindset and the most crucial lessons from his career so far. He shares with Jake and Damian how growing up in a challenging household, living in 15 different homes and a difficult relationship with his father, instilled in him a sense of purpose.

After suffering a career-ending football injury as a teenager, Gordon found his passion for the culinary arts. He discusses how he found the strength and resilience to pick himself back up from such a setback. Alongside his career developments, Gordon also shares the key to strong and successful family relationships. He highlights the importance of commitment and making time, even during the heights of his career. Gordon also speaks candidly about the experience of losing a child and how he and his partner have dealt with the trauma, focusing on the basis of their relationship: friendship.

Looking ahead, Gordon considers his future goals, including the pursuit of a third Michelin Star in France, which he regards as his final swan song in the culinary world. Despite his remarkable achievements across a forty-year career, Gordon and his team are far from finished.

Warning: There is swearing in this episode.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Jake and Damian re-wind the clock to when they spoke to FBI negotiator Chris Voss.

In this discussion Chris explains how techniques used in kidnapping negotiations can be used in our everyday lives. Jake shares how Chris’ teachings from this episode helped him to communicate with his wife, children, colleagues and even himself.

They reflect on some of the key missions in Chris’ career and how you can become an expert communicator.

Listen to the full episode with Chris here: https://pod.fo/e/d5dfb

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Pre-order our new book 'How To Change Your Life' https://linktr.ee/howtochangeyourlife

To listen to the full episode right now, download the High Performance App and use code HPAPP: https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Gordon Ramsay, chef and TV presenter, joins the podcast this coming Monday to discuss how he developed a winning mindset, how to grow from adversity and the highs and lows of his career so far.

In this exclusive episode preview, Gordon shares his advice for up-and-coming chefs facing challenges in their careers, and why finding your weakness is crucial to developing your skills. He debates with Jake the difference between arrogance and confidence.

This episode will be released on all platforms this coming Monday 23rd October, but to listen to the full episode today, download the High Performance App and using the code HPAPP: https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Delia Smith CH CBE is a culinary icon having sold over 21 million cookery books, and is also joint majority shareholder of Norwich City FC. In this conversation, Delia opens up about her spiritual journey, the transformative power of community and her time at Norwich.

Her spirituality is a central theme of the episode - now at 82 years of age, she describes how her relationship to community, politics and silence has transformed over time. Delia shares with Jake and Damian how dedicating one hour (she started with just 10 minutes) a day to quiet time has reshaped her perspective on life's challenges.

Having been a key member of the Norwich football family for over 27 years, community is central to Delia’s life. Delia discusses how to create, support and maintain communities in a time when everyone feels so disconnected. Her time at Norwich has also brought many challenges, including joining the board when they were days from bankruptcy and dealing with rude fans and cruel chants. She shares what it feels like to find true freedom and how she has come to accept herself and the difficult realities of life.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

This episode is a fascinating conversation about self-worth, perspective, and the power of saying no.

Dr. Julie Smith is a highly regarded clinical psychologist known for her compassionate approach to mental health care and expertise in cognitive-behavioral therapy.

With over two decades of experience, she has positively impacted the lives of countless individuals by helping them navigate the complexities of their emotional well-being.

In this episode, Dr Julie discusses how our choices today can lead to a better tomorrow, finding merit in balance throughout life, and focusing on what matters to us individuals. She explores how self worth is not based on what others think, but what we truly value.

Having worked with some of the most successful people, Dr Julie explains how many of these individuals have had some of the deepest struggles. She unravels our ‘unmet needs’ with Jake and Damian: love, belonging, and safety - and how in adulthood we can reflect on these to give perspective on day-to-day life.

- - - -

Get your tickets to An Audience with Sarina Wiegman - November 8th, Westminster Chapel: http://hppod.co/sarina-tickets

This episode encourages us to explore a deeper understanding of ourselves, our relationships, and why we should be seeking fulfilment not happiness.

Alain de Botton is an author and philosopher, known for co-founding The School of Life in 2008. The School of Life was created to fill a void in our current education systems with the teaching of emotional intelligence. Alain’s work also focuses on love, parenthood, mental health and the meaning of success. During this episode, Jake, Damian and Alain dive deep into each of these subjects, exploring what a life filled with the constant search for knowledge could look like.

Alain shares what we can learn from our mental health struggles and how they can be revealing a deeper truth. This conversation highlights how important it is to lean into uncomfortable emotions to truly understand ourselves. Alain challenges Jake and Damian’s perceptions of what high performance really looks like, debating whether the fight for success actually leads to a good life, and why we should be embracing averageness.

Within this conversation they discuss why we’re obsessed with fame, how to be a better parent, the benefits of a breakdown and how we can improve our relationships.

Find Alain’s new book ‘A Therapeutic Journey’ here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/a-therapeutic-journey-lessons-from-the-school-of-life-alain-de-botton/7388674?ean=9780241642559

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

One of Damian’s all-time favourite episodes is the conversation they had with professional boxer, Josh Warrington.

Damian reflects out his key take aways from the episode and shares them with Jake. This includes, Josh sharing the techniques he uses to keep his anxieties and fear in control just before going into the ring. And in the event of a mistake, he ensures to take full responsibility, rather than making excuses and blaming others.

Jake and Damian also discuss one of the most powerful moments in all of the 200+ episodes that have been recorded; Josh states the power of friendship and the positive impact keeping those relationships strong has.

Listen to Josh’s full episode here: https://pod.fo/e/b5aaf

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

This is a conversation about science, philosophy, the meaning of life, and the unfathomable size of the universe.

Professor Brian Cox is a physicist, known for his astronomy and cosmology series’, including The Universe and Stargazing Live. He has performed on several sell-out arena tours, setting the Guinness World Record for the biggest selling science tour. Before his career in science, at age 18 Brian embarked on a musical career, forming a band with the ex-keyboarder from Thin Lizzy. Brian shares stories of his 5 years as a professional musician; as a keyboard player in the bands Dare and D:Ream. Having achieved in D in Maths A-level, Brian discusses with Jake and Damain how this experience taught him his greatest lesson: the importance of practice.

In this episode, Brian imparts invaluable wisdom on the pursuit of greatness and knowledge, and his belief that “very few people are naturally great”. He shares his secrets on summoning the courage to ask difficult questions and the importance of saying “I don’t know”. They discuss the greatest threat to humanity: human stupidity, and Brian offers insights on creating global cooperation in a world with the power to destroy itself.

Jake, Damian and Brian tackle life's biggest questions, whilst exploring life's more personal subjects: self-doubt, fear and finding confidence.

See Brian on his live tour ‘Horizons’: https://briancoxlive.co.uk/

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP

This episode is part of our ‘Experts In Their Field’ mini-series, presented by Salesforce.

Marc Mathieu is the former Chief Marketing Officer at Samsung and Senior Vice President of Marketing at Unilever. He now brings his extensive expertise to Salesforce as the Senior Vice President of Strategic Customer Transformation and Innovation, where he focuses on transforming brand-consumer interactions through AI.

In this episode, Marc joins Jake and Damian to share his insights into customer success. He delves into the valuable lessons he's learned on delivering exceptional customer experiences, helping businesses thrive and seize new growth opportunities.

This episode is brought to you by Salesforce, a company that empowers businesses to build unprecedented connections with customers. By integrating customer relationships, AI, and data, Salesforce enhances productivity, strengthens connections, and increases profitability. They also promote innovation and trust within organisations, enabling teams to work more efficiently and effectively.

In September Jake and Damian chatted to a number of sports guests, but the conversations were far from sport centred. Each guest offered great learnings from their lives, including creating culture, what makes a great leader and how to be more present everyday.

They reflect on the conversation they had with Ryder Cup legends Luke Donald, Sam Torrance and Paul McGinley about their leadership styles and why Paul and Sam didn’t pick Luke to be in their team in 2014. Jake and Damian discuss Will Still’s open and authentic leadership style.

Jake and Damian had an honest and emotional conversation with Steve Hansen, the previous All Blacks' coach, on the hidden cost of high performance. Another vulnerable discussion was had with Paralympian David Smith MBE, who is currently dealing with the effects of a rare and invasive tumour. With David they consider the true importance of life.

The conversations that took place this month were reminders to take a pause and try to stay present.

Listen to the episodes mentioned:

Will Still: https://pod.fo/e/1ea4ea

Steve Hansen: https://pod.fo/e/1ecdda

David Smith MBE: https://pod.fo/e/1ef288

Ryder Cup Roundtable: https://pod.fo/e/1f190f

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP

This is an open discussion about leadership, creating culture and what makes a winning team.

To mark the 2023 Ryder Cup in Italy, Jake and Damian host a roundtable discussion with current European captain, Luke Donald, and legends, Paul McGinley and Sam Torrance. As Team Europe Ryder Cup captains past and present, they offer a unique perspective on leadership, team culture, and the winning formula that defines this prestigious event. They debate what makes a good Ryder Cup captain and the ways they get the best attributes from their players.

Luke Donald shares his experiences under different captains and how this has now influenced the way he interacts with his players. He shares his key lessons from his first 13 months as captain, including battling imposter syndrome. Paul McGinley and Sam Torrance consider how they change the way they create a sense of comradery in the current digital age, in contrast to team meetings taking place in their captain’s bedroom back in 2004.

Paul and Sam reflect on their choice to not include Luke in their 2014 team. They share what went into this decision and what elements need to come together to create a winning team.

This Ryder Cup roundtable is a deep dive into the art of cultivating an open and communicative team, finding the delicate balance between talent and performing under pressure, and defining the legacy that extends beyond the competition itself. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a leader, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode offers valuable lessons on what it means to lead, build culture, and win as a team at sport’s highest level.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP

https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

A common thread that runs throughout the hundreds of conversations on this podcast is the idea of sacrifice.

In this episode, Jake and Damian explore what the price of high performance really looks like. Although success looks great on the outside, it can come at the cost of collateral damage and difficult decisions. Looking back on their conversation with Dame Kelly Holmes, when she shared the impact sacrificing her mental health to be at the top of her game had.

They reflect on their discussions with Stephen Hendry, Rylan Clarke and Sir Ian McGeegan on the consequences of their drive to success.

Episodes mentioned:

Eddie Jones: https://pod.fo/e/b7048

Dame Kelly Holmes: https://pod.fo/e/1abee

Jonny Wilkinson: https://pod.fo/e/9cca4

Stephen Hendry: https://pod.fo/e/c12f9

Rangan Chatterjee: https://pod.fo/e/115f19

Rylan Clark: https://pod.fo/e/15d984

Sir Ian McGeechan: https://pod.fo/e/da9c4

Richard Dannatt: https://pod.fo/e/c6a61

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP

“Paralysis taught me how to live”

This emotional conversation is an honest and vulnerable discussion about life, death and understanding our purpose.

In 2010, David Smith was given a life changing diagnosis: a rare, cancerous tumour was found in his neck. A focused athlete, previously competing in karate, running and bobsled, David aimed to put all of his energy into competing in the 2012 Paralympic games as a rower; “I didn’t have time for a tumour”. But, after having surgery on the tumour, David suffered a stroke. This was the start of a new life for David.

After multiple surgeries and a number of complications, David is now fully paralysed on his left side. Despite winning gold for Rowing with Team GB at the 2012 Paralympics, what really stands out is David’s appreciation for every moment, his resilience, and his deep understanding of what it means to really live. In the face of battling cancer and living with paralysis, David's unwavering commitment to his purpose and daily philosophy shines through. He shares the importance of embracing vulnerability and the preciousness of time.

A total of 6 major life-threatening spinal surgeries in 13 years, 6 weeks of radiotherapy and learning to walk after each operation meant his sporting career became more about staying alive than winning medals. David shares his profound wisdom with Jake and Damian, exploring how he is attempting to come to terms with death and how he finds strength in vulnerability.

We’re left with the core of David’s message: “I’m not scared of dying, I’m scared of not living.”

This was recorded in front of a live audience at Happy Place Festival, there may be some background noise.

Follow David's journey here: https://www.instagram.com/davidsmithmbe/?hl=en

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP

Barry Hearn joined the podcast in 2022 to share his 10 life lessons. In this episode, Damian shares with Jake the top 3 lessons he learnt from Barry; the ones he still uses in his everyday life. These 3 lessons include, "it’s better to be lucky than good looking", "life is not changed by sitting on the sofa" and "life is going to end in tears, so you might as well make the most of it".

Jake and Damian reflect on these lessons and the way Barry’s version of high performance can be utilised in our daily lives.

Episodes mentioned:

Barry Hearn: https://pod.fo/e/157c60

Books mentioned:

The Luck Factor by Richard Wiseman: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-luck-factor-the-scientific-study-of-the-lucky-mind-richard-wiseman/11145449?ean=9781511376839

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP

This week’s episode provides a rare glimpse into the mind of a coaching legend Steve Hansen, revealing the key to success in the world of rugby and beyond.

Steve is a New Zealand rugby union coach and a former player. He famously led the All Blacks to victory during the 2015 Rugby World Cup as their head coach, a role he held from 2012 to 2019. This is a reflective, honest and vulnerable conversation with one of the world’s best coaches. Steve offers insights into his time with the All-Blacks, sharing his experiences coaching the greatest rugby team in history, and the task of redefining the concept of progress while sitting at the top of the world rankings.

Jake, Damian and Steve delve into the strategic mindset he brings to coaching, sharing five thought-provoking questions he constantly asks himself and his team:

What’s our identity and our legacy?

How fast can we learn about what’s going on in the game?

What are the places we’re struggling?

How fast can we adapt when things aren’t going our way?

What is our biggest goal?

They discuss his competitive and pride-driver alter-ego, Stanley, and how he has learnt to control this side of himself, offering valuable insights into the complexities of leadership. By prioritising simplicity, trust, and self-awareness, Steve explores how we can create a blueprint for high performance in any endeavour.

This episode was recorded at the Rugby Premiership Final at Twickenham, there may be some crowd noise in the background.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

To mark the start of the Rugby World Cup, Jake and Damian reflect on the conversations they have had with some of the most influential people in the game. We have been lucky enough to go into the training grounds, stadiums and dressing rooms and to hear the innermost thoughts of the key players past and present.

Hear from Sir Clive Woodward on the power of the individual in a great team. A former teammate of the legendary All Blacks, Dan Carter shares the details of the team meeting in which they decide they were going to be the worlds most dominant team. Jake and Damian consider the honest and open conversation they had with Siya Kolisi, who described what winning the world cup meant for all of South Africsa. As well as the above, we hear from some of the greatest players of the game, including Sam Burgess, Danny Cipriani and Eddie Jones.

Will's story is a testament to the power of authenticity and resilience in the world of football management.

Will Still is a professional football manager and former player, currently managing Ligue 1 club Stade de Reims. Aged 30, he is the youngest manager in Europe's top five leagues, and first became a manager at age 24. Will shares with Jake and Damian how he deals with outside pressure and how his commitment to honesty, vulnerability, and staying true to himself has been his guiding force. After dropping out of university in Belgium, Will moved to the UK to pursue a Football Coaching degree. Despite the culture shock, the move cemented Will’s commitment to a career in football.

They discuss how his style as a manager has developed since he first started, with vulnerability and honesty always being at the forefront of his work. Will discusses what it was like to turn down a job offer from Vincent Kompany and how a quiet self-confidence is crucial to his work. This is a conversation about passion, commitment and authenticity.

Will's journey reminds us that the road to success becomes much easier when we begin embracing our true self.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

August was filled with perspective changing and vulnerable conversations about what high performance really looks like. Jake takes a look back at some of the key insights from our guests over the last month.

Dr Waheed Arian challenged Jake's ever-shifting view of what high performance really means, by sharing the obstacles he overcame when moving from war torn Afghanistan to the UK at age 15 to become a doctor. Jake and Damian discussed how our biggest mistakes can make for our greatest achievements, with comedian Katherine Ryan.

Formula 1 legend Fernando Alonso opened up about the true price of high performance, and Jake learns what Fernando would do differently a second time around. Our final guest of the month, Peter Attia, changed Jake's outlook on life with his idea of the centenarian decathlon.

Listen to the episodes mentioned:

Dr Waheed Arian: https://pod.fo/e/1ae402

Katherine Ryan: https://pod.fo/e/1df492

Fernando Alonso: https://pod.fo/e/1e5849

Peter Attia: https://pod.fo/e/1e7be5

This episode contains the roadmap to a longer, healthier life.

Dr. Peter Attia is a physician, focused on the applied science of longevity and on a mission to unlock the secrets of extending human life. In this episode, he takes Jake and Damian through the 5 pillars of health, exploring the impact of nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress and supplementation.

These five essential aspects of our lives are the building blocks upon which our overall wellbeing is constructed. By analysing each of these pillars, Peter explains how they can be utilised to transform our lives and overall health and wellbeing.

Peter provides tangible actions that your future self will undoubtedly thank you for. Discover how setting goals for the final decade of your life can become a powerful source of motivation for making positive changes in your life today; “the seeds you sow in your youth, are the same flower that come to harvest later on”. Peter discusses how to improve your emotional wellbeing, including finding honest, fulfilling relationships and being able to properly regulate your emotions.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link  

Renowned author and spiritual leader, Deepak Chopra joins Jake and Damian at the Founders Forum event to explore how we can enhance our lives and find greater fulfilment.

Known for his work on medicine and mindfulness, Deepak explains how these practices can help us enter a state of flow, where we are fully immersed and engaged in our activities. He emphasises the paradox of doing less to achieve more, highlighting how many bodily functions occur effortlessly, suggesting that high performance can be achieved with less conscious effort.

While acknowledging the potential risks of AI, he sees it as a tool for positive change, enhancing creativity and addressing global issues. Deepak also shares his perspective on happiness, arguing that success should be measured by joy rather than achievements.

Throughout this episode, Deepak offers insights into living a more conscious and joyful life, advocating for a balanced approach to technology and a deeper understanding of our inner selves.

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After over 200 episodes and almost 4 years of the High Performance Podcast, Jake and Damian take a moment to rewind through the episodes. For any brand new listeners, this is your ultimate guide to the key High Performance moments.

Jake and Damian reflect on their favourite guests, biggest lessons and most memorable moments from the very start of the High Performance journey to the most recent episode. To begin, Jake and Damian explore the why behind the podcast. They delve into how their understanding of high performance has evolved over the years, from deep and honest conversations with the world's highest achievers.

Listen to the full episodes from the guests mentioned in this episode:

Tyson Fury: https://pod.fo/e/14ef0f

Steven Hendry: https://pod.fo/e/c12f9

Jonny Wilkinson 2020: https://pod.fo/e/9cca4

Jonny Wilkinson 2022: https://pod.fo/e/12f77d

Dame Stephanie Shirley: https://pod.fo/e/16a443

Eddie Howe: https://pod.fo/e/14d4d9

Christian Horner - https://pod.fo/e/cda02

Fernando Alonso: https://pod.fo/e/1e5849

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Fernando Alonso is a two-time Formula 1 World Champion, currently competing for the fast-rising Aston Martin F1 Team. Fernando has also driven for Alpine, McLaren, Ferrari, Minardi, and Renault, where he won the World Drivers' Championship in 2005 and 2006.

This episode explores what it takes to become an elite F1 driver, and how to maintain top level performance over a 20-year career.

Jake and Damian discover the origins of Fernando’s legendary racing career, dating back to his very first race at the age of three. They learn that despite Fernando’s unshakable self-confidence, he balances this with a unique awareness of his own limitations.

Alonso also gives insights to the transformation his two-year F1 hiatus had on him personally, deepening connections with his fans, and discovering an appreciation of the privileges of his position. He also opens up about his biggest regrets, and how he has dealt with failure since his championship winning years.

This conversation transcends the racetrack, offering lessons in determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Jake shares with Damian the conversation with Joe Wicks that transformed his life, completely shifting his view on what it means to be driven by purpose. They reflect on the importance of purpose over profit and how understanding your purpose can lead to clearer and more informed decision making.

Joe also offered practical advice for staying present and making time for the people who matter. He suggested people take “mini retirements” every year: whether it is a weekend or a month, a mini-retirement is time away from work and the pressures of everyday life to focus on family, friends, rest and relaxation. Jake reflects on how this has now become a crucial part of his life.

Listen to the full episode with Joe here: https://pod.fo/e/11450c

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Katherine Ryan is a comedian and writer, best known for her appearances on 8 Out of 10 Cats, Taskmaster and her stand-up special on Netflix, Glitter Room. Originally from Canada, Katherine made the bold move to London in 2008, and shortly thereafter had her first daughter. Becoming a single mum at the age of 25 and isolated from family, Katherine shares with Jake and Damian how this experience fuelled her determination and resilience. “When I had nothing, I had everything”, Katherine’s focus and dedication to her daughter's well-being gave her the strength to fearlessly pursue her stand-up career.

In this episode, Katherine takes us behind the scenes of her comedy path, reflecting on her journey from scraping by as a single mom to her decision to create space for women in the industry by stepping away from Mock the Week. She offers insights into finding positivity in life and leading with gratitude, and sheds light on the reality of hard work.

Join us to hear Katherine’s laughter-filled journey, her resilience, and her valuable life lessons.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Damian shares his key take-aways from one of his favourite episodes ever recorded with guest Vicky Pattison. Vicky completely shifted Damian's assumptions about reality TV stars and he came away with a brand new formula to view life.

Jake and Damian take a look back on the conversation they had with Vicky and they lessons she shared that they still use in their life today. Including, how she moved away from a strict work ethic to keep the passion for her career alive; the numbering system for everyday that has completely transformed her life and how we can categorise the most important people in our lives.

Vicky’s episode is a valuable reminder that everyone, no matter their background, has valuable lessons which we can all learn from.

Listen to Vicky's episode here: https://pod.fo/e/105426

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Dr. Waheed Arian, a doctor and radiologist, endured a challenging upbringing in war-torn Afghanistan, and at 15, he was smuggled to the UK. He had a singular ambition: to become a doctor. In a heartfelt conversation with Jake and Damian, he candidly reveals the harsh realities of living amongst bombings and military presence. He recounts visiting his father in hiding, who sought to evade front-line military service.

Such traumatic experiences have shaped Waheed's character, instilling vital lessons he carries to this day. He shares with Jake and Damian the key lessons he learnt from his childhood and how he still carries them with him. The loss of childhood innocence early on forged a determined mindset, focused on supporting and caring for his family. Throughout the darkest times, his dream of becoming a doctor served as a lifeline.

Waheed discusses the moment of kindness that changed his life, the importance of responsibility and how we can find meaning in what we do.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Jake and Damian reflect on the insightful and inspiring conversations they’ve had in July, delving a little deeper into some of the key lessons from each episode.

They rediscover the teachings shared by Dan Carter on how to navigate change whilst entering retirement. In one of the most emotional episodes ever recorded, Ashley Cain reveals how his late daughter Azaylia transformed his life and how her memory lives on today.

From the conversation with Sabrina Cohen-Hatton, firefighter and author, Jake and Damian reflect on fault vs responsibility and how we can guide ourselves through challenging times. Finally, they take a look at how to find your why with Simon Sinek.

There were some invaluable take-aways from each guest this month, you can listen to the full episodes here:

Sabrina Cohen-Hatton: https://pod.fo/e/18cd7c

Dan Carter: https://pod.fo/e/18914c

Simon Sinek: https://pod.fo/e/18ee0e

Ashley Cain: https://pod.fo/e/18aebc

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Steve Parish is a businessman and the co-owner and chairman of Crystal Palace F.C. After beginning his career in computer graphics, Steve went on to acquire multiple companies. He transformed TagWorldwide into a global production powerhouse with over 2,800 employees in 13 countries. In 2010, Steve acquired Crystal Palace, saving the club from administration, and building the foundations for the growth of the club over the 13 years that followed. In this episode, he shares the secrets to his success, and behind his failings, at every stage of his career.

Steve discusses the “hard graft” he put in from a young age, and shares how emotional intelligence can guide you through every interaction. Jake and Damian explore his purchase of Crystal Palace, how he interacts with the club as an owner, and how important the club is to him having been a childhood fan. They delve deep into what drives Steve, his key to hiring the best people and how he builds a great company.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

This is the final episode of our new Leadership Series, sponsored by PwC, in which we will be diving deep into what it really takes to be a great leader.

Emily Maitlis is a journalist, presenter of the ground-breaking daily podcast The News Agents, documentary filmmaker and former BBC Newsnight anchor. She is known for her skilled and informative interviews including THAT interview for Newsnight. In this conversation, they explore what it means to be an excellent interviewer. They discuss how Emily creates a compelling narrative, how she prepares for each interview and what her main objective always is.

She shares with Jake and Damian how covering traumatic events, such as school shootings in the US, the Paris terror attacks and Grenfell, has taken its toll. They discuss how she, and the Newsnight team secured the highly significant Prince Andrew interview, and the immense pressure that came with it.

Thank you to PwC for sponsoring this special CEO Series. PwC’s purpose is to build trust and solve important problems, and their global strategy - The New Equation - is bringing this to life for their clients, people and society. By combining technology with human ingenuity, passion and experience, PwC works with organisations to deliver more intelligent, sustained outcomes.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

To celebrate the Women’s World Cup, Jake and Damian take a look back at the conversations they had with former England players Alex Scott, Steph Houghton, and Jill Scott, as well as former manager Phil Neville.

Jake and Damian listen back to their chat with Jill about how the experience for female footballers has completely transformed. Steph shares what it was like to put women’s football on the map, and how she realised her life would change when she returned home after winning. Alex and Phil share their experiences with the Lionesses and how it changed their lives.

Listen to the episodes mentioned in this episode:

Phil Neville - https://pod.fo/e/2680b

Alex Scott - https://pod.fo/e/14421c

Jill Scott - https://pod.fo/e/17147d

Steph Houghton - https://pod.fo/e/ad8e0

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

After coming out of retirement and winning Silver at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, we revisit a captivating conversation with one of Britain's most recognised athletes, Tom Daley.

In this episode, Tom shares his inspiring journey with Jake and Damian, revealing how growing up feeling different had given him the strength to succeed. He opens up about losing his father to cancer in 2011, coming out as gay, having a baby, and becoming a prominent spokesperson for the LGBTQ+ community.

Listen in as we learn from Tom Daley's incredible story and the lessons he learned along the way.

Listen to the full episode:

https://thehighperformanceapp.com/episodes/4a4tZiZJMuAfm5mhLsAdUU

Simon Sinek is an author and inspirational speaker. Simon is known for his books ‘Start with Why’ and ‘Find Your Why’, both of which focus on how to find your purpose and help those in your life find it too. Finding your Why, is the idea that “everyone knows what we do, some of us know how we do it, but very few of us can articulate why we do what we do.” Great leaders think, act and communicate in the exact same way, which is completely different from everyone else. They tell people why they do what they do, rather than what they do. In this episode, they delve into how Simon found his why, after becoming unfulfilled in work and life whilst at career high point and how he helps others find their why too.

They also discuss how you cannot be a high performer on your own. He shares language is crucial when giving feedback and how to shape criticism so those in power will respond well to it. This episode is a deep dive into finding your purpose, using your best attributes to their fullest and what makes a great leader.

Listen to Simon help Jake find his ‘Why’ exclusively on the High Performance App.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Find Simon’s book ‘Start with Why’ here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/start-with-why-how-great-leaders-inspire-everyone-to-take-action-simon-sinek/239994?ean=9780241958223

This is the third episode of our new Leadership Series, sponsored by PwC, in which we will be diving deep into what it really takes to be a CEO.

Timo Armoo is an entrepreneur, speaker and co-founder of Fanbytes, a social media and marketing agency. Timo founded Fanbytes at age 21 whilst in university, eventually selling at aged 27 for an eight figure exit. In this conversation, we delve deep into Timo’s entrepreneurial mind, exploring what makes a great business idea, finding a core purpose and knowing when a good opportunity arises.

They discuss how his upbringing in Ghana, and then his teenage years in South West London, influenced his career. Timo shares the impact small wins can have, how to carefully choose your team and how he has “never had an original idea”.

Thank you to PwC for sponsoring this special CEO Series. PwC’s purpose is to build trust and solve important problems, and their global strategy - The New Equation - is bringing this to life for their clients, people and society. By combining technology with human ingenuity, passion and experience, PwC works with organisations to deliver more intelligent, sustained outcomes.

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP

https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton is a firefighter, psychologist and writer. In this episode Sabrina proves that nothing is fixed, where you start isn’t important, it’s where you end up. From experiencing homelessness as a teenager, after the death of her father, to working her way up in the fire service, joining at age 18.

She shares with Jake and Damian her experience making life changing decisions whilst being in the fire service, offering a clear and concise decision making formula. Women are traditionally taught not to take risks, from an early age the fear of failure is ingrained into women but Sabrina is challenging this idea. She is encouraging the discussion of gender bias and shares with Jake and Damian how they can do the same in their everyday lives. Sabrina explores why she seeks to understand people, how to re-calibrate trauma and overcoming struggle.

You can find Sabrina’s new book ‘The Gender Bias’ here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-gender-bias-the-barriers-that-hold-women-back-and-how-to-break-them-dr-sabrina-cohen-hatton/7401232?ean=9781788707220

Download The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP

https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

This is the second episode of our new Leadership Series, sponsored by PwC, in which we will be diving deep into what it really takes to be a CEO.

Tessa Clarke is the co-founder and CEO of Olio, the free app that connects users with unwanted food (from households or local businesses) with neighbours living nearby who would like it. Tessa is driven by purpose, aiming to reduce food waste and tackle climate change. She shares with Jake and Damian why Olio was created, how to build a brand and stay resilient in the face of challenge and set backs. She also reveals her key recruitment tips.

They discuss what can be done at an individual level to care for the environment and why we should be sharing, rather than discarding.

Thank you to PwC for sponsoring this special CEO Series. PwC’s purpose is to build trust and solve important problems, and their global strategy - The New Equation - is bringing this to life for their clients, people and society. By combining technology with human ingenuity, passion and experience, PwC works with organisations to deliver more intelligent, sustained outcomes.

Ashley Cain is a former professional footballer and TV personality. In 2020, his 8 week old daughter Azaylia Cain was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia. During Azaylia’s battle with cancer, Ashley and Azaylia’s mum, Safiyya, raised over £1 million in 24 hours for her health care. After her death in April 2021, at just 8 months old, Ashley and Safiyya set up ‘The Azaylia Foundation’, which supports families and provides memorable experiences for children fighting cancer.

In this episode, Ashley shares with Jake and Damian everything the life and loss of Azaylia has taught him. They discuss how the struggle can make us appreciate the small moments, staying present and connected to those in our life. Ashley shares how “even though my heart is broken into a million pieces, that’s a million pieces of love I can share with others in this world”.

You can find Ashley’s book ‘Strong: Life, loss and eternal love for my daughter’ here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/strong-ashley-cain/7408996?ean=9781788709408

Click here for more information on The Azaylia Foundation: https://theazayliafoundation.com/

- - -

You can download the new High Performance App here and use the access code to get in 

https://thehighperformanceapp.com

Access code: HPAPP

This is the first episode of our Leadership Series, sponsored by PwC, in which we will be diving deep into what it really takes to be a CEO.

Steve Hare is a businessman and CEO of Sage Group PLC, the leader in accounting, financial, HR and payroll tech for small and mid-sized businesses. With over three decades of experience in the industry, Steve shares with Jake and Damian his insights into the business world, including the benefit of being older in business, how to face the challenges of being CEO and the key advice he would give young entrepreneurs.

Prior to Sage, after achieving his career ambition of reaching CFO below the age of 40 (one of the youngest in the FTSE 100), Steve was asked to leave 18 months later. Although this was one of the lowest moments of his career, Steve shares with Jake and Damian the invaluable lessons he took away from this experience. They discuss how to hire good people, the ‘Waiter Test’ and how crucial a “team comes first” culture is.

Thank you to PwC for sponsoring this special CEO Series. PwC’s purpose is to build trust and solve important problems, and their global strategy - The New Equation - is bringing this to life for their clients, people and society. By combining technology with human ingenuity, passion and experience, PwC works with organisations to deliver more intelligent, sustained outcomes.

This episode is a look ahead to our forthcoming PWC leadership series which begins this Friday. Listen in to hear a preview of interviews with Steve Hare (Sage CEO), Tessa Clarke (Olio CEO) and Timothy Armoo (founder of Fanbytes).

Episodes will be released weekly on Fridays for the month of July

Welcome to our 200th Episode Special with Dan Carter, recorded live at Hackney Empire!

We first spoke to Dan, All-Blacks legend and one of the greatest rugby players of all time, almost 2 years ago. He returns to the podcast to discuss how his view of high performance, and his overall mindset, has evolved since the first conversation we had with him. He shares the struggles he faced after leaving the All Blacks and the issues and fears this brought up for him: navigating change, loss of identity and hiding from retirement . They discuss the idea of repurposing, finding a new purpose after a big life change and what his life looks like now.

Dan shares his key lessons from being an All Black, what the culture looked like and how crucial journalling has been in fulfilling his goals. They reflect on the key moments in Dan’s life, including his 2011 injury, and how he’s transformed his struggle into positive learnings.

You can also listen exclusively to the live audience Q&A with Dan right now on The High Performance App by clicking the link below and using the code: HPAPP

https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/app-link

This conversation was inspired by Dan’s new book, The Art of Winning: Ten Lessons in Leadership, Purpose and Potential. Find Dan’s book here: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-art-of-winning-lessons-learned-by-one-of-the-world-s-top-sportsmen-dan-carter/7312649?ean=9781529146196

Listen to our first episode with Dan here: https://pod.fo/e/f5fc4

Jake and Damian take some time to reflect on the conversations they’ve had in June, delving a little deeper into some of the key lessons from each episode.

They explore the idea of finding your purpose with Kevin Sinfield, how they would have done the interview with Edwin van der Sar differently with the knowledge he left Ajax a few days later. They also examine how to challenge negative thoughts with Tom Grennan’s method of “thought flipping”, wrapping up the conversation with the importance of asking for help and the power you can find when all seems lost, with Matt Willis.

There were some incredible and insightful take-aways from each guest this month, you can listen to the full episodes here:

Kevin Sinfield - https://pod.fo/e/1819c9

Edwin Van Der Sar - https://pod.fo/e/183472

Tom Grennan - https://pod.fo/e/185044

Matt Willis - https://pod.fo/e/186e2b

Matt Willis, the musician and singer known for co-founding Busted, joins the podcast to speak about the true impact of addiction. We discuss why addiction is such a taboo subject, how to approach difficult conversations with your loved ones and the journey to recovery. Matt shares the struggles he faced in his youth and how they spiraled into addiction. After Busted split up when he was only 21, he felt his life lacked direction and purpose. He discusses how he found his purpose again and how crucial his family are.

In this episode, Matt shares his thoughts on shame, fault vs. responsibility, challenging yourself and much more. This is an emotional and moving conversation about hope and empathy.

Watch Matt Willis: Fighting Addiction here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001m0jq/matt-willis-fighting-addiction

If you’re affected by any issues in this episode, please find more information here: https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/advice

This episode is part of our ‘Experts In Their Field’ mini-series, presented by Salesforce.

Jake and Damian sit down with Patricia Bright, one of the UK's leading social media influencers, to discuss her journey and passion for equality.

Proudly acclaimed as one of the UK’s foremost fashion and beauty YouTube channels across Europe and with a professional background in financial consulting, Patricia Bright is now a multi-award winning, globally recognised content creator with a following of over 4 million spanning the globe.

In this episode, Patricia takes us on a compelling journey through her personal and professional growth, sharing insights into her remarkable evolution and the challenges she has overcome. She opens up about her experiences in navigating the spotlight, revealing the strategies and mindset shifts that have helped her manage public attention and maintain her authenticity.

Patricia also delves into her commitment to fostering diversity and equality in the business world. Through her story, Patricia highlights the transformative power of embracing diverse perspectives and creating inclusive environments, offering valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their field.

Being part of Salesforce connects companies with customers uniquely, using business as a force for change. Committed to benefiting employees, partners, communities, and the planet, Salesforce advocates for a world where everyone is valued and empowered. A belief in the power of diversity to drive innovation, strengthen connections, and enrich the culture of an organisation.

George Groves is a former professional boxer, he competed for 10 years and held a WBA Super-Middleweight title. In March 2018, he was ranked as the Worlds Best Active Super-Middleweight Boxer. George shares his desire to lead to the front, going at things alone, and the negative impact that can have. He won the world title on his fourth attempt, he offers advice on never giving up and why he would always choose to go back to his most challenging defeats.

He spoke to us about the struggles in his career, the great moments, the hard moments and why he had to do things differently than other people.

Former world champion and now host of the George Groves boxing club podcast: https://bit.ly/44cgiub

Today we welcome musician Tom Grennan to The High Performance Podcast. I’m sure you immediately start to think of some of the awesome songs that Tom’s released, but there is so much about his story, his mindset and resilience that you don’t know. You’re about to hear a conversation with Tom, like you’ve never heard him before.

He’s going to share with you the hours of therapy he’s had, which has helped him when approaching any challenge in life to flip his thoughts. He can transform typically negative emotions, like envy or doubt, into positives. The most notable example of this is when he was the victim of a random attack. He could have been really badly derailed by it, but through a lot of work he was able to completely change his mindset.

Tom has had some really tough moments, but he has come through them. I can’t tell you what a pleasure it was to sit down with someone as humble, determined, talented and deep-thinking as Tom Grennan.

Get tickets to our live tour: https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/live2023

To celebrate Fathers Day 2023 in the UK, Jake and Damian discuss the importance of father figures. They look back on how previous guests lives have been shaped by their dads. The two also share what Father's Day means to them now they're both dads and how their fathers have shaped and influenced their paths in life.

They discuss sacrifice, tough love and psychological safety whilst hearing from guests such as Johanna Konta, Jost Capito and Keir Starmer.

Listen to the guests mentioned here:

Sir Ian McGeechan - https://pod.fo/e/da9c4

Johanna Konta - https://pod.fo/e/df4c6

Jost Capito - https://pod.fo/e/13e9fa

Angela Ruggiero - https://pod.fo/e/fb0cb

Tom Daley - https://pod.fo/e/1760c

Sam Burgess - https://pod.fo/e/1474a8

Dylan Hartley - https://pod.fo/e/1a11b

Liz Humphrey - https://pod.fo/e/16d3c0

Keir Starmer - https://pod.fo/e/16f84a

Gary Lineker - https://pod.fo/e/13e9fa