The voice in your head can either push you forward or hold you back. In this episode, Jake and Damian delve into the powerful impact of self-talk on performance, mindset, and emotional well-being. They explore how the inner dialogue we carry can shape our identity, build resilience, or quietly sabotage our efforts, depending on how we manage it. Revisiting insightful conversations with guests like Denise Lewis, Dr. Steve Peters, Pippa Grange, Aldo Kane, and Tom Daley, Jake and Damian highlight h...
May 30, 2025•30 min
Sometimes, the most radical thing a leader can do is trust. That’s what struck me in my conversation with James Timpson, not just the results he’s achieved, but the mindset behind them. James runs a business where people matter more than policies, and where the golden rules aren’t about performance metrics, they’re about showing up, looking the part, and doing the right thing. In this episode, I dig into the psychology behind what makes James’s approach so powerful, from the science of capitalis...
May 28, 2025•35 min
Callum Wilson is a Premier League striker known for his sharp finishing and explosive pace on the pitch; but off it, he has an equally powerful story. Warning: this episode contains themes of suicide and trauma. In this episode, Callum opens up about the darker side of his upbringing, including dealing with suicidal thoughts as a teen and the emotional scars that came with growing up in chaos. He reflects on how football gave him a sense of direction and purpose when everything else felt unstabl...
May 26, 2025•1 hr 10 min
Today Jake and Damian break down why your habits matter more than you think. Did you know 43% of what you do each day is habit, not conscious choice? That means nearly half your day is lived on autopilot. So where is your autopilot taking you? This episode breaks down: Why tiny daily actions shape your entire identity How Sam Tomkins, James Clear, and Jo Malone use micro habits to stay sharp How to journal proof of your progress The 3 questions to ask yourself before any task And why folding you...
May 23, 2025•16 min
There’s a certain kind of strength that comes from knowing who you are, even when the world tries to tell you otherwise. That’s what stood out in my conversation with Rio Ferdinand. Not just the success, but the mindset behind it: the habit of refusing to be reduced to a single story. Rio’s journey is a lesson in identity, drive, and turning fear into fuel. With all the labels the world tries to throw at us, it’s not just about ignoring them, it’s about choosing your own. From the football pitch...
May 21, 2025•38 min
Damon Hill is a former Formula 1 World Champion and one of the most thoughtful voices in motorsport. The son of legendary racer Graham Hill, Damon carved out his own legacy in a sport shaped by speed, risk, and legacy. In this episode, he opens up with a rare mix of honesty and introspection, sharing stories that go far beyond the racetrack. The conversation dives into Damon’s memories of Ayrton Senna, not just as a rival, but as a human being. He reflects on Senna’s deep sense of duty to Brazil...
May 19, 2025•1 hr 30 min
This episode of High Performance is in partnership with The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and The UK Export Academy. In the special episode, Jake Humphrey leads a powerful roundtable conversation exploring the real challenges and rewards of expanding your business internationally. Featuring voices from the UK Export Academy and a range of inspiring UK entrepreneurs, the episode dives into practical advice, cultural insights, and personal stories from those who've successfully taken the...
May 16, 2025•37 min
Essential Habits is a new weekly series from High Performance. Hosted by Damian Hughes, each episode breaks down powerful habits from world-class performers and thinkers - so you can apply them in your own life. Here’s Damian’s take on the first episode, featuring Jo Malone: "Sometimes life moves so fast we forget we even can stop. That’s something Jo reminded me of in this episode, the quiet power of pausing and taking stock before charging ahead. Jo’s story is a masterclass in resilience and r...
May 14, 2025•36 min
Tom Aspinall is a top UFC heavyweight known for his speed, skill, and sharp mindset. Hailing from the UK with a strong martial arts background, he’s climbed the ranks quickly while staying grounded and brutally honest about the fight game. In this episode, Tom talks about the real fear that comes with stepping into the cage. He opens up about the nerves, the pressure, and what it means to face legends like Jon Jones, and still show up ready to go. He also shares how passion and persistence have ...
May 12, 2025•53 min
In this episode, we go inside Liverpool FC’s data revolution with Dr. Ian Graham, the mastermind behind the club’s groundbreaking use of analytics. Ian reveals how his data-driven insights helped reshape recruitment strategy, most notably identifying Mohamed Salah as a top-tier winger long before he became a global star. He also shares how analytics backed Jurgen Klopp’s appointment, supported pivotal transfer decisions like signing Sadio Mane, and overcame internal resistance to modern methods....
May 09, 2025•1 hr 4 min
Humphrey Ker is a writer, actor, comedian, and now an unexpected figure in the world of football. Best known for his work on shows like The Penny Dreadfuls and Mythic Quest, Humphrey brings a unique mix of humor, heart, and genuine passion to everything he does. In this episode, Humphrey discusses his experiences growing up, including the influence of his traditional family life and how it shaped his emotional outlook. Despite a reserved upbringing, he reveals the profound impact compassion and ...
May 08, 2025•1 hr 26 min
Jeremy Renner is an award-winning actor known for his roles in films like The Hurt Locker, The Avengers, and Mayor of Kingstown. Beyond the big screen, he’s someone who’s faced serious real-life battles and come out stronger, with a powerful story of resilience and healing. In this episode, Jeremy opens up about pushing through the toughest moments of his life. He talks about the importance of facing hardships head-on, finding small emotional milestones, and how "gamifying" his recovery helped h...
May 05, 2025•57 min
In this episode, Jake and Damian explore how to handle negative people—at work, at home, and even in your own mind. You’ll hear powerful stories from guests like James Blunt, Jessica Ennis-Hill, Adam Grant, and Adrian Newey. They cover: Why negativity spreads and how to protect your mindset The difference between destructive critics and helpful truth-tellers Practical ways to stop letting others control your energy How to know when to quit, walk away, or push back If you’ve ever felt drained by ...
May 02, 2025•25 min
Owen Hargreaves is a former England international and Champions League-winning midfielder who made his mark at clubs like Bayern Munich and Manchester United. Known for his tactical intelligence and relentless work rate, he’s also battled some of the toughest injury setbacks in modern football. In this episode, Owen opens up beyond the pitch, sharing a thoughtful and inspiring look at what shaped him both as a player and a person. He highlights how important it is to push through adversity and n...
May 01, 2025•1 hr 44 min
Oliver Glasner is the current manager of Crystal Palace. He previously lead Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory. With a career rooted in resilience and personal growth, he brings a refreshing perspective on what it means to lead a team and overcome challenges. In this episode, Oliver shares his insights on what it takes to build a successful team, emphasising the importance of trust, respect, and creating an environment where everyone feels valued. With a focus on teamwork and unity, he a...
Apr 28, 2025•1 hr 7 min
Success doesn’t always come from talent, it often starts with traits anyone can develop. In this episode, Jake and Damian explore the underrated qualities that can set you apart, no matter your background. Drawing on insights from Kevin Sinfield, Chris Voss, Jamie Peacock, Clive Woodward and Marcus Wareing, they highlight the power of consistency, communication, discipline, and attitude. From showing up every day to mastering your mindset, these are the simple, game-chang...
Apr 25, 2025•26 min
As the current F1 season heats up with intense competition, we look back at a pivotal moment that changed George Russell's career forever. In a time when his dream of racing in Formula 1 seemed just out of reach, George took a bold step: he wrote a simple email to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, asking for a chance. What happened next was a game-changer, one that speaks to the power of timing, courage, and creating your own opportunities. Listen in as George reflects on how that email led to a life-ch...
Apr 24, 2025•1 hr 4 min
Steve Borthwick is the head coach of England’s national rugby team and a former international player known for his no-nonsense approach and deep tactical understanding of the game. In this episode, Steve discusses the philosophy behind his coaching style, focusing on the responsibility coaches have to make the game simple for players. He highlights how the journey to the top, much like climbing a mountain, is a gradual process, with each stage offering new lessons. He also reflects o...
Apr 21, 2025•1 hr 2 min
Jake and Damian invite a very special young listener Raffi, and his mum Mel, onto the show to talk about the power of conditions like autism and ADHD and how they can unlock creativity, focus, and drive, traits seen in so many high performers. 11 year old Raffi comes prepped with his very own high performance questions for Jake and Damian! Together, they challenge the idea that being different is a drawback, showing instead how it can be a powerful force for change.
Apr 18, 2025•31 min
Steve Williams is a renowned caddie who worked alongside Tiger Woods, playing a crucial role in some of his most iconic victories. With years of experience in the world of professional golf, Steve gained deep insights into the mental and physical aspects of high-level competition. In this episode, Jake speaks with Steve to dive into the powerful lessons he's learned throughout his career, from his time with Tiger Woods to his personal journey. Steve reveals how setting both big and small g...
Apr 17, 2025•46 min
Triple H is a legend in the wrestling world, both inside and outside the ring. From dominating as a top WWE superstar to becoming one of the most influential figures behind the scenes, he’s seen it all. But beyond the championships and iconic moments, his journey is packed with lessons on leadership, hard work, and personal growth. In this episode, Triple H breaks down what it really takes to succeed, not just in wrestling but in life. He stresses that success isn’t just about talent or fame; it...
Apr 14, 2025•1 hr 42 min
Step inside the moments that shaped the world’s biggest brands in The Room Where It Happened , a brand-new podcast hosted by Jake Humphrey. Each episode sees the guest take us back inside a room and a moment that changed the course of their careers. With unprecedented insight on the pivotal decisions, unexpected turns, and behind-the-scenes moments that propelled companies to global recognition - and the lessons learned along the way from the people who were right in the middle of it all. The Ro...
Apr 11, 2025•33 min
Les Ferdinand is a football legend known not only for his impressive career on the pitch but also for his strong values off it. A former striker with a career spanning the Premier League, the Championship, and international football, Les has become a respected figure in both sports and life. In this episode, Les shares his experiences of playing abroad and how adapting to new cultures shaped his career. He opens up about the lessons he learned from setbacks, how he dealt with criticism, and the ...
Apr 10, 2025•1 hr 54 min
John Obi Mikel is a name that football fans know well. A midfield powerhouse, he built his legacy playing for Chelsea and the Nigerian national team, winning trophies and proving himself on the biggest stages. In this episode, Mikel sits down with Jake and Damian to discuss the struggles he faced, fighting for his place, dealing with criticism, and navigating the ups and downs of a football career. He talks about those tough moments when it felt like the world was against him, and how he f...
Apr 07, 2025•1 hr 22 min
Every decision we make shapes our lives, yet many of us struggle to navigate them with confidence. In this episode, Jake and Damian explore the art of decision-making, uncovering the strategies that can help us make better choices, big and small. Revisiting powerful insights from guests like Shane Parrish, Dr. Sabrina Cohen-Hatton, and Steve Peters, they discuss how positioning, accountability, and resilience play a crucial role in decision-making. From understanding the importance of small choi...
Apr 04, 2025•30 min
Rob O’Neill is a former Navy SEAL best known for being part of the mission that took down Osama bin Laden. With years of experience in high-stakes operations, he’s learned invaluable lessons about leadership, resilience, and the importance of living in the moment. In this episode, Rob shares the mindset that helped him navigate both combat and everyday life. He talks about the power of small wins, how something as simple as making your bed can set the tone for success. He also dives into t...
Apr 03, 2025•54 min
Denise Lewis is a former Olympic heptathlete, gold medalist, and now a respected broadcaster and mentor. Known for her resilience both on and off the track, she has continued to evolve beyond her athletic career, embracing new challenges while inspiring others to do the same. In this episode, Denise opens up about confidence, ageing, and the power of self-investment. She shares why she feels stronger than ever in her 50s and how taking care of herself, physically and mentally, has ke...
Mar 31, 2025•1 hr 5 min
The questions we ask ourselves can shape the direction of our lives. In this episode, Jake and Damian reflect on four powerful questions that can help guide you toward a more purposeful and connected life, featuring insights from guests like Dr. Pippa Grange, Aitch, Shaun Wane, and Dr. Rangan Chatterjee. They dive into the importance of coherence and meaning, exploring how understanding your story and the impact of your actions can help you find clarity. They also discuss the need for direction ...
Mar 28, 2025•27 min
Dr. Sarah Berry is a leading expert in nutrition science, passionate about making healthy eating both accessible and enjoyable. In this episode, Dr. Berry dives into why food should be a source of joy, not stress. She explains how nutrition science is always evolving and why it’s important to stay open-minded about new findings. From snacking smartly to optimising fat intake, she shares simple yet effective ways to improve overall health without overcomplicating things. Sarah also sheds li...
Mar 27, 2025•1 hr 4 min
René Meulensteen is a highly respected coach best known for his time at Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson. Having played a key role in the club’s success, he worked closely with some of the biggest names in football, including Cristiano Ronaldo. In this episode, René dives into the culture that made Manchester United so dominant under Ferguson and how it has changed since his departure. He shares fascinating insights on leadership, communication, and the tactical brilliance that se...
Mar 24, 2025•1 hr 29 min
