WHOOP Podcast

Virgil van Dijk, captain of Liverpool FC and the Dutch National Team, shares his journey from childhood dreams to professional success. He discusses his calm demeanor and leadership mentality, revealing how mental preparation and breathing exercises enhance focus during high-pressure matches. The conversation touches on overcoming injuries and finding balance in personal wellness routines. He also delves into the unique dynamics of club versus national team play, emphasizing the importance of family support and self-confidence.

Ben Francis, Founder and CEO of Gymshark, shares his journey from a garage startup to a multi-billion dollar fitness empire. He discusses his early influences, highlighting lessons learned from his grandfather, shaping his work ethic. The conversation dives into the importance of adaptability in leadership and the significance of authentic brand identity. Ben reflects on embracing mistakes as opportunities and emphasizes the role of passion in business success. The insights he offers are invaluable for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to create lasting brands.

In this lively discussion, Emily Capodilupo, SVP of Research Algorithms and Data at WHOOP, takes the spotlight alongside founder Will Ahmed. They unveil an exciting new step tracking feature on the app, examining the significance of accuracy in counting steps versus traditional metrics. The duo dives into fascinating insights on how being sedentary affects health and challenges the classic 10,000 steps myth. Listeners will discover the importance of integrating movement into daily life and how to personalize their step goals for better performance!

Keegan Hipgrave, a former Australian National Rugby League player and mental health advocate, shares his remarkable journey from athlete to advocate. He dives into the intense culture of rugby, the challenges of playing through injuries, and his personal battle with concussions that led to his medical retirement. Keegan emphasizes the crucial need for mental health resources in sports, shares his reflections on life after retirement, and the importance of open conversations about mental health among athletes to break down stigmas.

Kristen Holmes, WHOOP's Global Head of Human Performance, and Emily Capodilupo, Senior VP of Research and Data, dive deep into the impacts of alcohol during Sober October. They discuss how alcohol disrupts sleep and recovery, alongside strategies for managing its effects. The pair also explore the correlation between alcohol use and serotonin levels, the importance of moderation, and evolving trends in non-alcoholic choices among younger generations. Their insights on embracing sobriety lead to healthier behaviors and lifestyle changes.

Nicholi Rogatkin, a world champion freestyle mountain biker with an impressive 25 FMB wins, joins Jeremy Powers to share his thrilling journey in the sport. They discuss surviving extreme injuries, including a dramatic 40-foot fall, and Nicholi's riskiest Red Bull Rampage run. He reflects on the evolution of mountain biking, the adrenaline rush of competitions, and the importance of mental resilience. Plus, Nicholi offers advice to aspiring riders on pushing boundaries while enjoying the ride.

In this engaging discussion, Laura Philipp, an Ironman European Champion and World Championship Bronze Medalist, shares her journey from novice to triathlon elite. Alongside Kristen Holmes, WHOOP's Global Head of Human Performance, they dive into data-driven training methods, the impact of the menstrual cycle on performance, and tips for optimizing recovery through sleep. Laura also reveals her preparation strategies for the upcoming Ironman World Championship, emphasizing the power of grit and growth mindset in achieving podium dreams.

Dr. Maya Shankar, a cognitive neuroscientist and former White House Senior Advisor, dives into her fascinating journey from aspiring violinist to behavioral scientist. She shares insights on navigating identities and the power of the 'fresh start effect' to instigate positive change. The conversation touches on overcoming setbacks in goal achievement, the role of small behavioral adjustments in public policy, and the importance of resilience through awe. Maya also highlights strategies for cementing new habits and making better decisions in life.

Join Patrick Mahomes, a 3x World Champion quarterback, as he dives into the importance of sleep and recovery for peak performance. He shares insights on leadership and the significance of team cohesion during the demanding NFL season. Patrick discusses his nutritional habits, how he uses recovery data to stay injury-free, and prepares mentally and physically for the Super Bowl. Plus, he humorously compares family dynamics and shares personal sleep habits, all while gearing up for the birth of his third child!

Brittany Mahomes, a lifelong athlete and co-owner of the NWSL's Kansas City Current, shares her exciting journey in sports and fitness. She reveals the joyful news of expecting her third child and discusses the competitive dynamic with her husband, Patrick. Brittany dives into her fitness routine, recovery tips, and adaptations for family life. She also reflects on her pivotal role in establishing the KC Current and emphasizes the essential qualities for success in professional sports, including passion and resilience.