James Smith: Fitness Myths, Building Confidence and Choosing Happiness (E306)

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 reinvention. With around 6,000 thoughts flying through our minds each day, many of them negative, it’s not just about thinking less, but choosing what’s worth holding on to. Together, we explore how stopping to organise our thoughts and truly understand our story can turn moments of crisis into turning points. I also unpack a fascinating piece of neuroscience, a study with a less-than-glamorous title, but a powerful message, showing how our brains naturally prioritise rewarding memories. If you’ve ever wanted to hold on to what matters and let the rest slip away… this one’s for you." Here is a list of studies referenced in the episode: The Persistence and Transience of Memory. Authors: Blake A. Richards & Paul W. FranklandEbbinghaus's Forgetting Curve. Author: Hermann EbbinghausDiscovery of 'Thought Worms’. Researchers: Queen’s University, CanadaEyewitness Misidentification and Wrongful Convictions. Organisation: Innocence ProjectPost-learning Hippocampal Dynamics Promote Preferential Retention of Rewarding Events. Authors: Matthias J. Gruber, Maureen Ritchey, Shao-Fang Wang, Manoj K. Doss, Charan RanganathWhy We Forget and How to Remember Better. Authors: Andrew E. Budson & Elizabeth A. Kensinger

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 shaped his journey. From tough moments to mental preparation, Tom explains how visualizing every step helps him stay focused when it matters most. The episode taps into themes of fear, resilience, and love for the craft, offering a grounded, honest portrait of a fighter chasing greatness. 🚨 Partners Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://hppod.co/20heights 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 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. From Barcelona comebacks to balancing scouting with stats, this is a rare look at the numbers behind Liverpool's rise to the top. Ian's book 'How to Win the Premier League: The Inside Story of Football’s Data Revolution' is out now. 🚨 Partners Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://hppod.co/20heights 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

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 emotional understanding can have on personal growth and success. Humphrey also delves into the significance of community and connection, particularly through his love of football. He shares what he values most about the teams he supports, not just their wins and losses, but how they bring people together. The episode offers a refreshing look at how passion, humility, and heart can change the way we lead, connect, and even chase our dreams. 🚨 Partners Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://hppod.co/20heights 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

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 him stay motivated. He also shares how vital his support system was, but makes it clear that real recovery had to come from within. His daughter became a huge motivator, and he reflects on how suffering can actually lead to real growth and a deeper connection with others. This episode is all about finding strength through pain, staying grounded, and choosing happiness no matter what. Jeremy Renner's My Next Breath is available in all formats now, published by Simon & Schuster UK. 🚨 Partners Heights 👉 Get 20% off your subscription by using Code: HP20 here: https://hppod.co/20heights 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