Endurance icon and Ironman World Champion Lucy Charles-Barclay shares the mental strategies she relies on to push through the toughest moments in training and racing. In this powerful micro-lesson, she breaks down how visualisation, positive self-talk, and reflecting on past wins can help you stay strong when things get hard. Whether you're navigating challenges in sport, business, or everyday life, you'll come away with practical tools to manage discomfort and stay focused on your long-term goa...
Jun 11, 2025•9 min
Renowned psychologist and author Professor Binna Kandola shares decades of insight on equality, unconscious bias, and real-world examples of inclusion. Binna Kandola OBE is co-founder and senior partner of Pearn Kandola, a business psychology practice. He works with organisations including Citigroup, Nestlé, and the World Bank. We explore what true workplace inclusion looks like, why targets alone miss the mark, and how leaders can foster psychological safety. You’ll also hear a sharp take from ...
May 29, 2025•56 min•Ep. 96
Professor Vin Walsh is a renowned expert in neuroscience and a Royal Society Industry Research Fellow at University College London. In this episode, we unpack some thought-provoking topics about group dynamics, stress management, and the pivotal role of sleep and exercise in overall well-being. Vin shares his fascinating theories on the optimal size of work teams and the importance of understanding our unique decision-making styles under various pressures. Plus, Vin will offer practical advice o...
Jan 13, 2025•56 min•Ep. 95
In today’s episode, we're thrilled to have with us Olympic gold medalist and five-time world champion rower Grace Prendergast. We explore the nuanced dynamics of high-performing teams, the importance of effective communication, and the power of celebrating small wins. Grace shares her journey from elite athlete to executive search expert, emphasising the parallels between sports and business, especially in teamwork, goal-setting, and leadership. We'll also delve into how pressures can shift focu...
Oct 30, 2024•55 min•Ep. 94
Anna Hemmings’ journey from discovering kayaking at a local club to becoming a marathon kayak world champion is nothing short of inspirational. In this episode, Anna reveals her path to success, including the power of visualisation, mastering mental skills, and recovering from chronic fatigue syndrome. She also talks about the importance of discipline, feedback, and maintaining high performance habits under pressure. Whether you're aiming for Olympic glory or striving for excellence in any field...
Aug 01, 2024•52 min•Ep. 93
Today we're unlocking the secrets behind the legendary All Blacks' winning mentality with insights from former captain Kieran Read. Kieran discusses the All Blacks' unique culture, where selflessness and knowing your role are key to success. He shares stories about how these principles helped them achieve an undefeated season in 2013, highlighting the power of teamwork under pressure. As a listener to the show, use the code PODCAST100 to get 1 free month on the Sporting Edge Mindset Toolkit here...
Jul 26, 2024•8 min
Today, we have a truly inspiring guest joining us – elite triathlete Lucy Charles-Barclay. She is the 2023 World Ironman champion and is renowned for her resilience and drive. Lucy was a talented swimmer and after several painful setbacks, she made the transition to triathlon, a decision which would change her life forever. We caught up with her ahead of the T100 Triathlon in London where she is hoping to shine in front of her home crowd. Lucy shares the significance of internal motivation and s...
Jul 18, 2024•55 min•Ep. 92
Martin Newman is a leading expert in customer centricity. Martin shares invaluable insights on the importance of strong leadership, cultivating a customer-focused culture, and aligning all employees towards a common goal. We delve into real-world examples from companies like Walgreens, Timpson, Home Depot, and Patagonia, illustrating how empowered staff and care for employees drive long-term success. Martin also shares practical tips on building trust, embracing agility, and balancing empowermen...
Jun 19, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 91
Today we're diving into a topic that's often misunderstood but crucial for achieving mastery: making mistakes. In high-performing organisations, mistakes are not only common but essential for growth and innovation. We'll explore the psychology behind our fear of failure with insights from experts like psychiatrist Dr Dehra Harris and Professor Guy Claxton. We'll also hear inspiring stories from elite athletes and successful leaders who have learned to embrace mistakes as stepping stones on their...
Jun 05, 2024•36 min•Ep. 90
In this micro-lesson, we honor the memory of Duncan Fearnley, whose cricket bat craftsmanship has left a lasting legacy, just like the indomitable Sir Viv Richards, whose wisdom takes centre stage. Tune to hear how Viv applies the metaphor of traffic lights – understanding when the red light demands a pause, so you can hit the gas at the right moment. As a listener to the show, use the code PODCAST100 to get 1 free month on Sporting Edge Mindset Toolkit here , which includes 24/7 access to over ...
Apr 23, 2024•7 min
Professor Roger Steare is The Corporate Philosopher – a senior advisor on culture, leadership and organisational development, ethics and inclusion. He has a unique track record of challenging and supporting global corporations on billion-dollar risk management and remediation programmes. His work with BP after the Gulf of Mexico disaster was crucial to the company's recovery plan, with Roger's cultural advice and leadership training endorsed within the US Department of Justice Consent Agreement ...
Mar 21, 2024•52 min•Ep. 89
Welcome to Inside The Mind of Champions, where we delve into the insights and strategies of exceptional individuals in the world of sports and business. In this microlesson, we explore a powerful strategy used by Olympic gold medalist Helen Richardson-Walsh to overcome self-doubt and step up in critical moments. Join us as we dissect Helen's winning mindset and draw parallels to our own lives, gaining valuable lessons on personal and team performance. Visit Sporting Edge to find out more about h...
Mar 14, 2024•6 min
Harry Cobden burst onto the horse racing scene at 16 and has since matured into a seasoned professional by his mid-twenties, known for his remarkable poise under the intense pressure of the sport. He is at the top of the jump jockey's championship with 138 wins at a 23% strike rate. The jump jockeys are the most courageous and resilient sports stars around. In this episode, we begin hearing from Harry’s trainer, Paul Nicholls OBE, who has won the grand national, four Cheltenham Gold Cups, and ha...
Mar 08, 2024•30 min•Ep. 88
Sir Dave Brailsford is a renowned leader from GB Olympic cycling and the ‘Team Ineos’ Tour de France teams. He coined the marginal gains theory where 100 components could be improved by one percent. Here, we uncover the importance of receiving feedback and its impact on personal and team performance. Visit Sporting Edge to find out more about how we use these bite-sized insights to drive improved business performance. www.sportingedge.com Links Mentioned Mastermind: Kipp Popert – overcoming adve...
Jan 18, 2024•8 min
Despite being born ten weeks premature and developing cerebral palsy, which impairs the muscular movement in his legs, Kipp Popert has grown to become the world No.1 disability golfer. From his early struggles with surgeries to his triumphs on the golf course, Kipp's story is one of unwavering strength and pursuit of excellence. In this fascinating conversation, Kipps talks candidly about what has propelled him to the top. Tune in as we unpack the power of patience and controlling impulses, his ...
Jan 06, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 87
As you are starting to wind down to these all-important holidays at the end of the year, I’ve gathered some insights to reflect on. They come from a recent podcast interview I was on with David Wright from The School for CEOs. Tune in as we explore the key psychological characteristics of elite performers and how they are developed over time. We also explore the importance of having a growth mindset and provide advice for nurturing high achievers. Additionally, we discuss different sources of mo...
Dec 18, 2023•11 min
Content warning : this episode covers the topic of suicide and depression. If you need resources or support, talk to your GP or a relevant health practitioner . Shaun Lane is an Australian professional rugby league footballer who plays as a second-row forward for the Parramatta Eels in the National Rugby League (NRL). He previously played for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, New Zealand Warriors and the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles in the NRL. Shaun embarked on a 9-year journey filled with ups a...
Nov 24, 2023•36 min•Ep. 86
Lt Col Susie Hines is an experienced mental health nurse who transitioned to the British Army and has dedicated her career to managing and delivering clinical mental health services for defense personnel. This conversation comes from a webinar for the Sporting Edge Members. Tune in as Lt Col Hines shares insights on the effects of executive stress, the prevention of burnout, and the importance of prioritising mental well-being. We also explore how her expertise can be applied across various doma...
Nov 09, 2023•51 min•Ep. 85
Today we’re exploring how both the New Zealand All Blacks and South African Rugby team have created an emotional competitive advantage over their rivals. They’ve both harnessed their unique heritage, culture and a higher purpose to galvanise their teams. With the spotlight on World Cup winners the Springboks, we’ll hear about how Siya Kolisi and their players are living the philosophy of Ubuntu. We hear about the adversity faced by Denis Goldberg, who was imprisoned alongside Nelson Mandela for ...
Nov 01, 2023•10 min
Jonny Wilkinson is one of the most respected sports stars in the world. His rugby playing career was underpinned by an intense perfectionism and attention to detail. He became a household name by kicking England's winning drop goal in the dying seconds of the 2003 World Cup with scores tied. Jonny finished his career at Toulon helping them to win two Heineken Cups and the Top 14 championship in five years. More recently he’s moved into coaching, launched his own brands and become a successful po...
Oct 24, 2023•1 hr 21 min•Ep. 84
We delve into the inspiring journey of Olympic champion Helen Richardson-Walsh MBE. Often, we only see the glorious moments of victory, but behind the scenes are the trials and tribulations that can make or break a person. Helen shares her story of hitting rock bottom, battling mental and physical setbacks, and ultimately realising her dream of becoming an Olympic champion. Join us as we explore the power of resilience and the importance of setting small goals and maintaining a positive mindset....
Oct 11, 2023•19 min
Once a successful jump jockey with 133 wins, Paul Nicholls OBE possesses the unique qualities essential to excel in this demanding sport. After a life-altering leg injury at 27, Paul transitioned to training racehorses. In three decades, he has brought 3,500 victories and earned over £4 million in prize money. His horses have triumphed in prestigious races, including the Grand National and Cheltenham Gold Cup. Tune in as we unpack what fuels his quest for excellence, the motivational climate he ...
Sep 27, 2023•42 min•Ep. 83
In this micro-lesson, we're diving into a section from my recent interview with Andrew May on the Performance Intelligence podcast. This section covers confidence, resilience, and the importance of seeing ourselves as more than just our jobs. Join us as we reflect on the strategies and insights that can help you thrive in any high-pressure situation, both personally and professionally. As a listener to the show, use the code PODCAST100 to get 1 free month on Sporting Edge Membership here , which...
Aug 25, 2023•8 min
In this episode, I pick some key insights from the Sporting Edge Digital Library about the effects of chronic stress and the need for recovery periods to sustain high performance. Tune in as experts share their personal experiences and insights on managing stress, prioritising well-being, and taking breaks to clear the mind. You will hear from: John Coates: former Wall Street trader turned neurobiologist Anna Hemmings: Six time world champion kayaker, two time Olympian, and now a world class key...
Aug 17, 2023•14 min•Ep. 82
As your profile builds, so do the external distractions. Being the 7th bowler of all time to reach 500 Test Match wickets, Stuart Broad has developed a mental game that is as impressive as his skills. In this episode, Jeremy unpacks a conversation with Stuart into the routines and strategies he uses to focus on his mind under pressure. You’ll hear how he bounced back from being hit for six sixes by Yuvraj Singh and what motivates him to stay one of the world’s best cricketers. Whether you love c...
Aug 04, 2023•43 min
Purpose and sustainability needs to be at the front of mind for all organisations, and in today’s episode I share a fascinating conversation about this with a special guest, Fiona Morgan, the Chief Purpose Officer at SailGP. Tune in as we learn more about the Formula 1 of sailing, Fiona’s trailblazing career, and how their innovative ‘Impact League’ adds a new perspective to our definition of winning. Follow Fiona's work and SailGP Impact League SailGP Instagram SailGP LinkedIn SailGP Facebook S...
Jul 20, 2023•53 min•Ep. 81
High performance is not about comparing ourselves to others, but about making daily habits and choices that align with our goals. We also need to recognise that no-one can make it to the top alone, we need to help each other. Hear a fascinating insight from Annabel Croft, British former professional tennis player and current radio and television presenter. When her idol Chris Evert offered to help her during a challenging period, it stayed with her for life. As a listener to the show, use the co...
Jul 13, 2023•6 min
Drawing on insights from experts in the Sporting Edge's video library, we delve into the psychology of risk. From the primitive instincts that keep us safe to the winner effect of excessive risk. Jeremy shares his personal experiences of managing risk in elite sport and we hear thought-provoking reflections and inspirational strategies to give you more confidence and clarity in the decisions you face. Tune in to hear key insights from: Dr Dehra Harris: Director of Performance Research and Educat...
Jul 07, 2023•36 min•Ep. 80
The Ashes 2023 is a prime example of motivation and playing at the highest level. Tune in to hear the insights from global Cricket legends Stuart Broad MBE and Shane Warne on their passion and support for their teammates, having the competitive spirit and taking responsibility for yourself. As a listener to the show, use the code PODCAST100 to get 1 free month on Sporting Edge Membership here , which includes 24/7 access to over 900 insights and high performance strategies. Links mentioned: Mast...
Jun 23, 2023•10 min
For this week's micro-lesson, I've taken a final section of a webinar that I designed and delivered for the Growth Hub. They're a network of sales leaders, and this is the Q&A section hosted by their leader, Steve Lindsay. Tune in as we talk about the role leaders play in helping their teams to navigate these periods of volatility. As a listener to the show, use the code PODCAST100 to get 1 free month on Sporting Edge Membership here , which includes 24/7 access to over 900 insights and high...
Jun 17, 2023•19 min
