The High Performance Podcast

After England's heartbreaking loss at Euro 2024 and Gareth Southgate stepping down as manager, Jake and Damian dive into the highs and lows of the tournament and Southgate's impactful tenure.  They reflect on the unexpected turn of events throughout the tournament, noting the optimism for England's chances before the final. Jake and Damian discuss how Southgate transformed England's team from...

In this episode, respected neuroscientist and author Dr. Tara Swart joins Jake to uncover fascinating perspectives about the complex interplay between our brains and bodies. Tara sheds light on how our constant smartphone use impacts us both mentally and physically, and what we can do to reduce the side effects of technology. She also discusses the impact of stress on weight gain, highlighting why...

Jake and Damian are joined by Great Britain Olympic medal favourite Keely Hodgkinson, to dive deep into her journey as a middle-distance runner and her mindset as an elite athlete. Keely Hodgkinson is a rising star in athletics, winning 800m silver at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics at just 19 years old, before becoming European Champion in June 2024. She shares how she manages nervous energy and the impo...

In this special episode, Jake and Damian reflect on England’s iconic Euro 2024 journey so far, revealing insights into the work Damian has conducted with the England team as part of their tournament preparations. Damian shares the details behind the conception of England’s penalty shootout ‘buddy’ system, highlighting how the support of other players was critical to creating a safe environment for...

Discover profound insights into the workings of the brain and how we can optimise its functions, with this conversation with neurosurgeon and neuroscientist Dr Rahul Jandial. In this episode, Rahul discusses the dynamic nature of the human brain, comparing neurons to floating jellyfish and highlighting our ever-changing emotional and behavioural states. He explains how understanding brain pathways...

Jake and Damian welcome former footballer Joleon Lescott to High Performance, discussing the highs and lows of his career, the influential people in his life and the challenges he faced on and off the pitch. Joleon Lescott is best known for his time at clubs including Everton and Manchester City, contributing to City's Premier League triumphs in 2012 and 2014 and earning numerous caps for England....

In this episode, we revisit a compelling conversation with the new Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer. We explore the man behind the politician, and what he’s learned about leadership throughout his career Reflecting on his journey from barrister to party leader, Keir opens up to Jake and Damian about his formative years, the challenges of his legal career, and the profound impact of his mother's re...

Renowned doctor, researcher and advocate, Chris Van Tulleken joins Jake and Damian for a candid conversation on the impact of ultra-processed foods on our mental and physical health. He shares his insights on how certain foods not only harm our bodies but also mess with our minds, leading to anxiety, depression, and a lack of control. He explains his own 30-day junk food experiment and its effects...

In part 2 of this episode, Joe Hart opens up to Jake and Damian about the challenging yet transformative period in his career when he moved to Torino. Despite facing setbacks and being sidelined at times, Joe emphasises the importance of staying present, enjoying both good and tough times and finding clarity in difficult situations. He also reflects on his stints at West Ham, Burnley, and Tottenha...

In the first of this two-part episode, we welcome former England goalkeeper Joe Hart to High Performance, discussing his remarkable career and the mindset that has driven him to success. Best known for his time at Manchester City and the England national team, Joe is a multiple Premier League FA Cup winner, and has played in some of the most memorable matches of the 21st century. Joe discusses his...

Jake and Damian sit down with Olympic record-breaker Laura Kenny to discuss the highs and lows of her illustrious cycling career, and the personal challenges she's faced along the way. Legendary British track and road cyclist Laura Kenny made her mark as a five-time Olympic champion and the most successful female cyclist in Olympic history. In this episode, Laura opens up to Jake and Damian about...

In this episode, Jake joins world-leading nutrition expert Tim Spector to dive deep into the myths and truths about diet and health. Tim Spector is a renowned epidemiologist, geneticist, and author. Known for his work on personalised nutrition, he explains why calorie counting often fails in the long term. Emphasising the importance of food quality over quantity, Tim points out how ultra-processed...

In this episode, we revisit our insightful conversation with England Manager Gareth Southgate prior to Euro 2020. Gareth reflects on his journey, including leading the Three Lions to the 2018 World Cup semi-finals, and his ambitions for future tournaments. Gareth shares stories from his distinguished playing career; earning 57 international caps and playing in four major tournaments with England,...

In this episode, Jake and Damian sit down with Premier League footballer Ollie Watkins, discussing his staggering journey from non-league football to reaching the Champions League. England and Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins joins us on High Performance after a breakthrough season, achieving the most assists in the Premier League. Ollie opens up to Jake and Damian about his route to the top, dis...

In this episode, former Special Forces Soldier Jason Fox joins Jake and Damian to share his insights on navigating life's challenges and embracing fear. The former Royal Marine Commando and Special Forces Sergeant is a well-known TV personality, author, and motivational speaker. Throughout this conversation, Jason shares compelling stories from his military career and personal life, providing a un...

In this episode, Jake meets with Daniel Lieberman, a renowned researcher in human evolutionary biology and a Professor at Harvard University, to discuss the profound impact of exercise on our health and longevity. Daniel delves into the evidence revealing how just a moderate amount of physical activity can significantly lower our risk of death from numerous diseases, including cancer. He challenge...

In this episode, we revisit our fascinating conversation with McLaren Formula 1 driver Lando Norris. After a rapid rise to the top of the podium in Formula 1, we look back at Lando’s chat with us in 2022, as he dreamt of becoming a race winner and championship force. Listen as Lando speaks to Jake and Damian about his tough beginnings in F1, how he struggled with mental health and imposter syndrom...

Renowned for his captivating presence on screen and innovative business endeavours, Jamie Laing joins Jake to share candid insights into his career and overcoming personal struggles. Jamie Laing is more than just a reality TV star: he’s also recognised as an investor and entrepreneur, establishing the confectionery company 'Candy Kittens', and hosting several podcasts including ‘Great Company’ and...

In this episode, Jake and Damian sit down with the remarkable Ronda Rousey, a professional mixed martial artist and former UFC champion, to dive into various aspects of her life and career. Ronda Rousey became the first UFC women's champion and a judo Olympic Medalist, earning back-to-back golds at the Pan American Championships and a 2008 Olympic bronze medal. Ronda opens up about her upbringing,...

In this episode, Liverpool FC Academy Director Alex Inglethorpe joins Jake and Damian to discuss the secrets of success in football and player development. Alex Inglethorpe is a former English footballer, who played forward for Watford, Leyton Orient, Exeter City, and Barnet, before becoming a renowned football coach specialising in nurturing young talent at the academy level. Alex shares valuable...

In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Michail Antonio, the West Ham United striker who rose from non-league football to European glory. After almost a decade at West Ham, Michail made history by becoming the club’s all-time top goalscorer in the Premier League. In this heart to heart conversation with Jake and Damian, Michail opens up about his time at West Ham, the constant spec...

In this captivating episode, business icon Richard Branson joins Jake to share his fascinating stories about life, leadership, and luck. - Sponsors: Eight Sleep: Click here:  https://hppod.co/eightsleep  for £200 discount - British entrepreneur extraordinaire Richard Branson founded the Virgin Group in 1970, branching out from record retailing into multiple industries. Reflecting on sign...

In this episode, Jake and Damian team up with acclaimed restaurateur Will Guidara to delve into the world of hospitality. A leading figure in the culinary world, Will Guidara is a renowned restaurateur and co-owner of New York City's Eleven Madison Park restaurant. His dedication to innovation, exceptional service, and culinary excellence has earned him widespread acclaim, including the prestigiou...

In this episode, Chris Williamson joins Jake and Damian to delve deep into the realms of connection and embracing authenticity. Chris Williamson is an English podcaster, YouTuber and former television personality; appearing on the first series of Love Island in 2015. Since 2018 he has hosted the highly regarded Modern Wisdom podcast, surpassing a staggering 400 million downloads. Chris boldly talk...

Iconic ice dancing duo Torvill and Dean sit down with Jake and Damian to reflect on their illustrious career spanning over 50 years. Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean are a lengendary former British ice skating duo and 1984 Winter Olympics Champions. In this episode, they reflect on their early days, recalling the pivotal moment when they realised their potential as a duo. They highlight how thei...