In this conversation, David Galbraith and I explore how courage, mindset, and the metaphor of the handbrake influence personal and team performance across sports, leadership, and everyday life. DG emphasizes the importance of psychological layers, cultural alignment, and coaching as key drivers of excellence. A pivotal moment in the discussion is David's skydiving experience, which serves as a powerful metaphor for confronting fears and unlocking true courage. *Davids Audio drops out for the last minute so it appears that I am talking to myself but it really is just goodbye and you will get the gist of it!

Key Topics:

• The metaphor of the handbrake: understanding mental restraint in high performance.
• The role of courage as a decision: moving from fear to freedom.
• Insights from skydiving as a reflection of living unconsciously vs consciously.
• Building resilience and harmony between fear and energy using scientific insights.
• The impact of coaching and culture on team and individual responses under pressure.
• Strategies for leaders and coaches to create environments of empowerment and responsibility.
• Differentiating goals and targets: strategic thinking for success.
• The importance of layered learning and staged exposure, like skydiving, to develop confidence.
• Practical ways to apply mental and emotional layers in work, sport, and life.
• Cultivating leadership that fosters legacy and independence.

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In this conversation with Lawrie Montague we explore the complexities of coaching and performance in golf, emphasizing the importance of awareness, the journey of seeking knowledge, and the evolution of coaching philosophies.

We discuss the challenges players face under pressure, the significance of continuous learning, and the need for a holistic approach to coaching that goes beyond just technical skills.

The dialogue highlights the value of personal growth, the impact of reading, and the necessity of adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the sport.

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THIS IS A RE PUBLISHED EPISODE

This Episode was recorded during Covid when Dave Rennie was with the Wallabies (Australian Rugby Team) and I hosted the podcast with David Galbraith (DG) who was with Renz when the Chiefs won back to back super rugby titles.

Dave Rennie has just been appointed the head coach of the All Blacks and I can't wait to see how this season unfolds and I think Dave Rennie will be up for the challenge.

In this episode you will discover how Dave Rennie fosters identity, resilience, and community within elite rugby teams, translating lessons from Glasgow and New Zealand to the international stage. This episode dives into leadership, culture-building, and the mindset required to succeed at the highest levels of sport and beyond.

Key Topics:

• The importance of culture and how history influences team identity
• Strategies for building genuine connections with players in different environments
• Leadership development and empowering players to lead
• Managing team cohesion amidst COVID restrictions and online engagement
• Differences in coaching Australian vs. New Zealand rugby culture
• The role of diversity and inclusion, including Pacifica representation
• Creating visual symbols and shared experiences to reinforce values
• The influence of family, loyalty, and integrity in team culture
• Building resilience and leadership in youth and club rugby
• Approaches to facing tough matches and rivalries like the Crusaders or All Blacks

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So excited to be joined by Pippa Grange, a performance psychologist for the last session of 2025.

In this chat Pippa discusses her unique approach to performance psychology, emphasizing the importance of 'winning deep' versus 'winning shallow.' She explores how fear impacts performance, the significance of love and relationships in sports, and the need for a cultural shift in how athletes view success. Pippa also shares insights from her work with the English football team and her upcoming book on regenerative performance.

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NOTE: My Audio is not great, but good news I don't talk too much!!!

In this conversation, I speak with Dr. Jay-Lee Nair and we delve into the intricacies of sports psychology, focusing on the balance between high standards and expectations in athletic performance.

We discuss the importance of understanding controllable factors, the role of identity in performance, and the necessity of reflection processes for athletes. The conversation also highlights the significance of feedback systems and the complexities of loving one's sport, emphasizing that love for the game can manifest in various forms beyond just enjoyment.

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In this conversation, Owen Eastwood, a performance coach, shares insights into his experiences with the Ryder Cup and the unique challenges of coaching in professional sports. He discusses the importance of team cohesion, the role of data analytics in performance, and the mindset required for success in high-pressure situations. The conversation also touches on the emotional resilience needed to navigate the intense environment of competitive sports, particularly in events like the Ryder Cup. In this conversation, Owen Eastwood discusses the critical aspects of performance in sports, emphasizing the importance of immediate performance, team cohesion, and the role of storytelling in building confidence among athletes. He reflects on his experiences with the European Ryder Cup team and the Invincibles podcast, exploring how historical narratives can inform present-day performance. Eastwood also addresses the significance of belonging and the impact of environment on athlete well-being, advocating for a more holistic approach to sports culture that prioritizes joy and connection.

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In this episode of "Talking Performance," I am joined by two people who I believe to be leaders in the coaching space; Samuel and Dave Keelty. We discuss the intricacies of coaching, development, and high-performance environments.

They write a fantastic blog, it is easy to read and always thought provoking and you can find it here. They have a subscriber goal so it would be cool if you could support them and their newsletter.

Sam and Dave delve into their unique journeys, the importance of having difficult conversations, and the role of structured frameworks in coaching. The conversation also explores the balance between high challenge and high support, and how to create environments that adapt to individual needs. Tune in for insights on fostering growth and connection in sports coaching. #Coaching #Development #HighPerformance

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In this conversation, Jay Carter and Scott Curtis engage with performance coach Luke Mackie, who shares his experiences at the Ryder Cup, discussing the unique intensity of the event, the dynamics of team obligations, and the daily routines of professional golfers.

Luke emphasizes the importance of performance coaching, the role of technology in sports, and the significance of creating a sense of belonging among athletes. The discussion also touches on the impact of crowd dynamics, the pressure athletes face, and the importance of networking and mentorship in the sports industry.

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