

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.
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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

9 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 60min
Sara Pascoe: How Self-Criticism Fuelled Her Comedy Career (E335)
Sara Pascoe, a witty comedian and author, shares her journey from self-doubt to confidence in her career and personal life. She discusses how therapy transformed her self-criticism into self-acceptance, fostering resilience in the face of failure. Reflecting on her parenting experience amid comedy, Sara emphasizes authenticity and the impact of personal relationships on her craft. She challenges the notion that harsh self-critique fuels success, highlighting instead the joy of embracing imperfections and the power of communal support.

44 snips
Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 23min
Alun Wyn Jones: His Relentless Rugby Routine, Family Pride and Stepping Away from the Game (E334)
Alun Wyn Jones, a legendary Welsh rugby player known for his leadership and relentless work ethic, shares insights from his remarkable career. He discusses the impact of his diverse upbringing on his success and emphasizes the importance of seizing every opportunity. Alun dives into his journey of balancing personal ambition with team dedication, and the emotional complexities faced after retirement. He reflects on his evolution in leadership and the significance of maintaining a strong work ethic, ultimately revealing his philosophy on performance and personal growth.

12 snips
Mar 7, 2025 • 36min
What Going to Prison Taught Andy Coulson About Failure
Former journalist and political strategist Andy Coulson shares his transformative journey through public scandal and incarceration. He discusses how failure can spark personal growth and reshape one’s life. Andy emphasizes the significance of resilience, gratitude, and self-reflection, encouraging listeners to appreciate what truly matters. He also highlights the potential for redemption within challenging circumstances, advocating for empathy and understanding in a polarized society. His insights are a reminder that even amidst chaos, growth is possible.

133 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 1h 9min
Stephanie Romiszewski: Why You Wake Up at 2am! Sleep Expert on EXACTLY How to Sleep Better (E333)
Stephanie Romiszewski, a leading Sleep Physiologist and media expert, transforms our understanding of sleep. She reveals why waking up at 2 AM could be linked to internal rhythms rather than lifestyle choices. Stephanie challenges the eight-hour sleep myth, advocating for a consistent wake-up time instead. Practical tips for enhancing sleep quality are discussed, emphasizing the power of simplicity and routine. Listeners gain insights into navigating sleep challenges and the value of recognizing individual sleep needs without overcomplicating their approach.

Mar 3, 2025 • 1h 16min
Noel Fitzpatrick: Supervet Reveals His Silent Battle with Abuse and His Most Traumatic Surgery (E332)
Noel Fitzpatrick, a groundbreaking veterinary surgeon, shares his journey marked by trauma and resilience. He discusses the power of vulnerability and how confronting personal pain can lead to healing and professional growth. Noel reflects on his childhood challenges and the role they played in shaping his veterinary career. He emphasizes the importance of human connection in surgery, the lessons learned from failure, and the sacrifices behind achieving exceptional success. His story is an inspiring invitation to embrace love and perseverance.

5 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 20min
What’s the Mindset Behind Golden Moments? With Jessica Ennis-Hill (and Nicola Adams)
Join Olympic champion Jessica Ennis-Hill and boxing pioneer Nicola Adams as they explore the transformative power of mindset in sports. Ennis-Hill, known for her heptathlon prowess, and Adams, the first double Olympic champion in women's boxing, share personal struggles and triumphs. They dive into how resilience shapes peak performance, the significance of defining golden moments, and the unexpected kindness that can alter life’s trajectory. Their inspiring stories highlight the journey beyond competition, emphasizing perseverance and the importance of mental strength.

26 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 1h 11min
James Vowles: Why Williams Will “Break Everything” to Succeed in F1
James Vowles, former Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport Strategy Director and current Williams Team Principal, shares his journey from finance to F1, driven by passion and sacrifice. He discusses the unique challenges of managing legendary drivers' expectations, like Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher. Vowles emphasizes the importance of teamwork, humility, and open communication in high-stakes environments. He reveals how the Williams team is focused on incremental development and creating a culture of growth amidst the intense competition of Formula One.

30 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 15min
Ben Fogle: Living with Primitive Tribes and Overcoming a Mental Breakdown (E331)
In this enlightening conversation, adventurer and TV presenter Ben Fogle shares insights from his profound journey through a mental breakdown in 2023. He discusses the power of solitude and nature as healing tools, emphasizing the need for work-life balance and the importance of asking for help. Ben reflects on his global experiences, advocating for cultural lessons that enrich personal well-being. The episode touches on authenticity, vulnerability, and the quest for deeper human connections against the backdrop of modern societal pressures.

27 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 29min
Big Boys Do Cry—So Why Don’t We Talk About It?
Men's mental health is a crucial topic, grappling with stigmas around emotional vulnerability. The conversation dives into societal pressures that hinder men's emotional expression, featuring personal stories from notable guests. The importance of fostering safe spaces for open dialogue is emphasized, proving that strength lies in vulnerability. Listeners are encouraged to normalize these conversations, challenge traditional masculinity, and support each other in emotional journeys. Ultimately, embracing vulnerability can lead to improved mental health and stronger connections.

45 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 57min
Gary Stevenson: Surviving the Broken Economy and His Mission to Stop Rising Inequality (E330)
Gary Stevenson, a British economist who famously predicted the 2008 financial crash, shares his vital insights on wealth inequality. He discusses how the current economic system benefits the wealthy while leaving the majority struggling. Stevenson emphasizes that simply working harder won't solve this issue and warns of the impending economic changes that could further impact everyday people's finances. He advocates for collective action against rising inequality and reflects on his own journey in high finance and its toll on mental health.