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.**Want to get the most from High Performance? Download the new High Performance app for FREE to access every episode, enjoy exclusive documentary and masterclass content. You’ll get instant access to insights from the world’s best, will receive daily motivational boosts and can create your own personalised High Performance playlists.Simply click here or search High Performance in the App store to get started.
Episodes
Mentioned books
32 snips
Aug 1, 2025 • 59min
James Milner: The Premier League’s Ultimate Pro on Lasting 22 Years at the Top
James Milner, a veteran footballer known for his unwavering work ethic, shares insights from his illustrious 22-year career in the Premier League. He discusses the discipline required to stay at the top, revealing how choices like avoiding alcohol shaped his journey. Milner reflects on the emotional challenges of high-level competition, such as handling rejection and team dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of communication and strong leadership in building team culture, and the sacrifices necessary for lasting excellence in sports.
50 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 23min
The Key Habit Firefighters Use To Make Decisions In A Crisis
Sabrina Cohen-Hatton, Chief Fire Officer and behavioral neuroscientist, shares her experience making high-stakes decisions in life-or-death situations. She discusses how fear can disrupt thinking and the importance of clarity over speed in decision-making. Listeners learn about a vital habit—the power of the pause—and a practical tool for enhancing situational awareness. Sabrina emphasizes that the best leaders are those who are prepared, allowing them to face critical moments with confidence.
Jul 28, 2025 • 1h 25min
Nottingham Forest Captain Ryan Yates on How Their Europa League Dream Came True (E362)
Ryan Yates, the resilient captain of Nottingham Forest, shares his inspiring journey from the lower leagues to Premier League leadership. He discusses the pivotal mindset shifts that helped him overcome doubts and the power of affirmations in setting bold goals. Yates highlights the importance of team culture and emotional support in achieving success, emphasizing that true leadership goes beyond talent. Listeners will appreciate his insights on managing anxiety, the essence of vulnerability in sports, and how adversity has shaped him into the player he is today.
105 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 41min
What Moneyball Teaches Us About Finding Undervalued Talent, with Author Michael Lewis
Michael Lewis, best-selling author of 'Moneyball' and 'The Big Short,' dives into the power of identifying undervalued talent in a thought-provoking discussion. He challenges traditional views on success, arguing that role players and data-driven decisions can lead to remarkable outcomes. Lewis sheds light on the emotional dynamics of talent assessment and the often-overlooked contributions of government workers. He also reflects on the influence of figures like Elon Musk in shaping leadership strategies and the importance of empathy in nurturing new talent.
26 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 25min
Why You Care More When You Build It Yourself, with Lions' Legend Alun Wyn Jones
Dive into the mindset of rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones, who embodies the principle that personal investment leads to greater emotional connection and pride. Explore the IKEA Effect, emphasizing how building something yourself enhances motivation and ownership. Discover the true essence of leadership when no one is watching and the importance of self-discipline in achieving high performance. The discussion underscores the power of teamwork, where collective effort yields deeper fulfillment than solo achievements.
112 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 53min
Carlos Sainz: Inside My Ferrari Exit, Red Bull Rumours and Why I Believe In Williams (E361)
Join Carlos Sainz, a talented Formula One driver known for his time with Ferrari and now betting on Williams, as he shares his bold career moves. He discusses turning down easier paths and the importance of trust and honesty in his choices. Sainz addresses rumors about Red Bull and his thoughts on Max Verstappen, revealing his clarity rather than bitterness. He opens up about the personal toll of chasing championships and the challenges of staying present amidst the relentless pursuit of success. It's a raw and human insight into the mind behind the helmet.
18 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 29min
Sarina Wiegman: The Leadership Secrets Powering England Lionesses
Sarina Wiegman, head coach of the England Lionesses and mastermind behind their UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 victory, shares insights into her transformative leadership principles. She emphasizes the significance of connection, clarity, and trust within a team. Sarina discusses her journey through personal grief during the tournament and how emotional balance is crucial in high-pressure environments. She also explores the differences in decision-making styles between genders and advocates for empowering women in leadership roles, making this conversation a celebration of growth and inspiration.
55 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 31min
The 3-Part Method to Hold the Attention of a Room, with Gary Barlow
In this engaging discussion, Gary Barlow, the iconic frontman known for hits like 'Back For Good,' shares his expertise in capturing an audience's attention. He introduces the Show Graph, a technique for shaping emotion in performances that extends beyond music. Barlow emphasizes that lasting memories are formed through impactful moments, not perfection. He offers insights on how to open powerfully and close meaningfully, and stresses the importance of emotional connections in any setting—be it a concert or a corporate meeting.
19 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 26min
Mark Clattenburg: From Death Threats to Champions League Final "Referees Aren't Seen As Human" (E360)
Mark Clattenburg, a former Premier League referee known for officiating major finals like the FA Cup and Champions League, shares his compelling journey. He opens up about the mental pressure and isolation that come with such a high-stakes job. Clattenburg discusses the emotional toll of public scrutiny and the need for mental health support in officiating. He reflects on his experiences during crucial matches, emphasizing the importance of resilience and trust in communication with players, even when dealing with football's biggest stars.
80 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 23min
How to Handle Difficult Conversations
Confronting tough conversations is key to personal and professional growth. The hosts discuss strategies like deep listening and effective questioning to enhance communication. With insights from notable guests, they share how to deliver feedback clearly and empathetically. The importance of clarity and trust in difficult discussions is emphasized, along with the balance of respect in coaching dynamics. By reframing criticism and shifting to curiosity, listeners gain practical tools to foster stronger connections and navigate challenging dialogues.
