The High Performance Podcast

Humphrey Ker, a writer, actor, and executive director at Wrexham AFC, shares the journey of revitalizing the club alongside Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. He delves into the significance of community and emotional resilience in football, revealing how his upbringing shaped his perspective on success. The conversation highlights the balance between ambition and contentment, the power of creative flexibility in business, and the impact of radical kindness in leadership. With humor and heart, Humphrey illustrates how genuine connections can transform both sports and lives.

In this enlightening conversation, Jeremy Renner, an award-winning actor known for his powerful roles, shares his harrowing journey from a near-fatal snowplow accident. He discusses how he embraced adversity, finding strength in vulnerability and the support of his daughter. Renner explores the concept of 'gamifying' recovery and setting emotional milestones to stay motivated. His reflections on personal growth through pain and the importance of authenticity illuminate how true resilience emerges from facing one's trauma head-on.

Discover how to effectively handle negativity from others while shielding your mindset. Engaging stories from notable guests reveal why negativity spreads and how to discern helpful criticism from harmful commentary. Learn practical strategies to reclaim your energy, set boundaries, and decide when it's time to walk away or push back. The discussion emphasizes transforming negative experiences into motivation and maintaining focus on personal growth, all while navigating external and internal challenges.

Owen Hargreaves, a former England international and Champions League-winning midfielder, shares his inspiring journey through adversity in football. He discusses how to push past self-doubt and criticisms, emphasizing the importance of hard work and self-worth. Owen reflects on his multicultural upbringing and its impact on his identity and career, revealing the emotional toll of public scrutiny on athletes and their families. He highlights the significance of teamwork, resilience, and maintaining focus in competitive environments.

Oliver Glasner, current manager of Crystal Palace and former Europa League champion with Eintracht Frankfurt, shares his incredible journey of resilience after surviving a brain hemorrhage. He emphasizes building successful teams through trust, respect, and open communication. Glasner dives into the challenges of mid-season management and the significance of fostering confidence among players. Reflecting on personal growth, he discusses how adversity reshapes priorities, urging leaders to align decisions with their values for stronger team dynamics.

Success often stems from qualities anyone can cultivate, rather than sheer talent. The discussion delves into the importance of consistency, communication, discipline, and attitude. Listeners learn how incremental changes can elevate performance and well-being over time. Negotiation techniques, such as those by Oprah Winfrey, emphasize the impact of respectful interactions. Additionally, fostering optimism and strong relationships is highlighted as crucial for personal growth and team success.

George Russell, a British Formula One driver for Mercedes, reflects on his daring leap that transformed his career. He shares the story behind that fateful email he sent to Toto Wolff, exemplifying the importance of timing and courage. George candidly discusses overcoming anxieties in a competitive world and the value of mentorship in navigating his journey. With humor, he highlights the emotional dynamics of racing and the need for mental health support, emphasizing that small, intentional steps can lead to significant success.

Steve Borthwick, head coach of the England national rugby team, brings his no-nonsense approach to the forefront. He discusses the importance of simplifying the game for players and the gradual journey to success, likening it to climbing a mountain. Borthwick emphasizes essential qualities like bravery and resilience, while sharing insights on building a championship culture and empowering players. His reflections on the evolving role of coaching reveal the complexities of leadership, focusing on fostering trust and adapting to the team's needs.

Join a heartwarming conversation with young Raffi, who shares his unique journey navigating ADHD and autism. Discover how neurodiversity can be a powerful source of creativity and drive, challenging the idea that differences are drawbacks. Listen to inspiring stories of resilience, including a celebrated chef who turned struggles into strengths. The importance of empathy, representation, and community support shines through as they discuss the impact of kindness and mentors in shaping young lives.

In this discussion, Steve Williams, Tiger Woods' former caddie, shares his remarkable journey through high-stakes golf. He reveals how setting both big and small goals kept him and Woods focused on success. Steve also dives into the mental pressures of competition, explaining how training under intense conditions builds resilience. The conversation highlights their deep connection and the crucial role of caddies in an athlete's performance, offering insights that resonate beyond sports to anyone facing challenges in life.