The High Performance Podcast

Dan Burn, a Premier League Defender for Newcastle United and England international, shares his inspiring journey of resilience in football. He highlights the transformative leadership of Eddie Howe and the importance of genuine communication in the team. Burn reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of chasing silverware, emphasizing that the journey and unity among players are what truly matter. He opens up about personal struggles with mental health and the essential role of family support, all while carrying the weight of a club eager for glory.

Explore the fascinating distinction between pressure and stress, revealing how to leverage both to foster growth. Discover insights from top performers who translate fear into motivation and learn the importance of reframing your mindset. Delve into the innovation culture at a budget airline where celebrating failures leads to breakthroughs. Gain practical tools for managing overwhelming feelings and transforming pressure into a positive force. This enlightening conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to thrive under pressure.

Mo Gawdat, former chief business officer at Google X and author of "Solve for Happy," shares his profound journey through grief after losing his son. He introduces the 90-second rule, revealing how emotions only physically last 90 seconds and how we can choose our reactions afterward. Mo discusses techniques to navigate emotions, transform grief into resilience, and foster lasting happiness. He emphasizes the need for radical acceptance and explores the true meaning of fulfillment beyond material success, making this conversation a powerful guide for emotional clarity.

Sam Allardyce, a seasoned English football manager with a reputation for his no-nonsense style, shares insights from his extensive career. He discusses the balance between immediate results and long-term strategies in football management. Sam reflects on the emotional challenges of his time as England's manager and the media scrutiny he faced. He also emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and innovative practices like cryotherapy. Ultimately, he reveals his enduring passion for the sport and the lessons learned from both triumphs and setbacks.

Discover how to break free from the boxes society places you in! The hosts share inspiring stories from guests like Rio Ferdinand and Fearne Cotton, emphasizing the importance of redefining your identity. They discuss the struggles and triumphs of embracing multiple identities and pivoting in life. Hear about the courage it takes to step outside societal labels and pursue authenticity. The conversation reveals practical insights for living purposefully and fostering genuine connections on your journey to a high-performance life.

Laila Ali, an undefeated boxing champion and entrepreneur, shares her father's powerful leadership lessons. Through heartfelt anecdotes, she discusses the importance of recognizing those often overlooked, like 'the last person in line.' Laila emphasizes how compassion and inclusivity can transform culture and enhance team dynamics. She explains that small acts of kindness foster trust and high performance, and delves into the neurobiology of inclusion, highlighting how it affects both individuals and teams.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin, a Premier League striker for Everton FC and England international, candidly shares his journey of resilience through injuries and intense pressure. He opens up about the emotional toll of feeling lost and the importance of a strong support system, particularly his family. Dominic emphasizes the role of vulnerability and communication in overcoming challenges, while reflecting on the significance of mental health awareness. His insights into self-belief, identity, and the impact of supportive teammates and coaches paint a powerful picture of an athlete's journey.

In a compelling discussion, Chris Voss, former FBI lead hostage negotiator and bestselling author, shares his transformative negotiation techniques. He emphasizes the power of listening over speaking for better outcomes in conversations. Voss highlights the importance of empathy, using calibrated questions, and understanding emotions to foster collaboration instead of conflict. He even delves into parenting, teaching kids about consequences through negotiation, showcasing how these skills apply in everyday life beyond high-stakes situations.

Alain de Botton, a modern-day philosopher and co-founder of The School of Life, delves into the power of uncomfortable questions in building trust. He argues that asking, 'How have I annoyed you?' can deepen relationships at home and work. The discussion emphasizes the importance of emotional generosity, honest listening, and vulnerability. Listeners learn how awkward inquiries foster deeper connections, the science behind emotional closeness, and the transformative potential of being truly heard in both personal and professional spaces.

Join John Legend, the soulful EGOT winner, as he candidly discusses his deeply personal journey through heartache and healing. He reflects on the traumatic loss of his baby with Chrissy Teigen, emphasizing how sharing that pain helped both him and others. John also opens up about the complexities of his past friendship with Kanye West, exploring how fame shapes personal relationships. Through stories of resilience and vulnerability, he highlights the importance of embracing one’s emotions and remaining true to oneself amidst life’s challenges.