Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a Premier League striker known for his athleticism, drive, and key role at Everton FC. But beyond the goals and headlines, he’s also faced a tough road of injuries, personal setbacks, and intense pressure.

In this episode, Dominic opens up about some of his lowest moments, times when injury left him feeling broken and lost. He talks candidly about the pressure to bounce back quickly, the mental toll of feeling stuck, and what it really took to dig deep and keep going.

He also reflects on the importance of having a strong support system, especially the role his wife and family play in keeping him grounded. Dominic shares how communicating openly about his feelings, even when it meant shedding tears, was a crucial step toward healing and growth.

This episode is a raw and real look at growth, mental toughness, and finding strength through struggle.

🚨 Partners

Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://highpfrmc.com/heights1

HP Foundation 👉Do you want to kick-start an evolution that will change the lives of millions of children? Find out more about the High Performance Foundation: https://hppod.co/foundation

HP Corporate Events 👉Click here to book High Performance Events: https://hppod.co/corporate-events

Explore offers and discounts through our other partners:

https://hppod.co/partners

In this episode, we revisit a powerful conversation with Chris Voss, former FBI lead hostage negotiator and bestselling author of Never Split the Difference.

In this insightful discussion with Jake and Damian, Chris shares his unique approach to communication, showing how the skills he used in life-or-death negotiations can transform the way we handle everyday conversations. From business meetings to family dynamics, Chris explains why listening more and speaking less can lead to better outcomes in every area of life.

Listen in as Chris delivers practical, transformative strategies to help you navigate pressure, connect with others, and negotiate like your life depends on it.

This new Essential Habits series breaks down the key habits behind high performance, one episode at a time. This week’s habit is deceptively simple: asking better questions.

Philosopher Alain de Botton joins us to explore how a single, uncomfortable question, “How have I annoyed you?” can deepen trust, defuse tension, and create stronger connections in every part of life.

Whether it’s at home, at work, or with close friends, we often avoid the conversations that would help us grow. Alain shows us a different way, one built on emotional generosity, honest listening, and the courage to be vulnerable.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why awkward questions build trust
• How to listen without getting defensive
• The science behind emotional connection
• What high-performing teams can learn from philosophy
• The hidden power of backstories and being 'truly heard'

Here is a list of studies referenced in the episode:

1. The Experimental Generation of Interpersonal Closeness. Arthur Aron, Elaine Aron (1997)
2. Understanding the conversation gap: Why employees aren’t talking, and what we can do about it (Braverly), referenced in How to Navigate Difficult Conversations with Employees. Harvard Negotiation Project
3. Rejection Really Hurts, published in Science (Oct 2003). University Of California - Los Angeles
4. Daring Greatly by Brené Brown

Listen to the full episode with Alain De Botton here: https://pod.fo/e/1f5db0