Welcome to Episode #3 of Season 3 of High Performance with Joe Sprange.
Today, my conversation is with Nick Farr-Jones, former Wallabies captain and Rugby World Cup winner. Nick has always been someone I’ve admired for his leadership, humility and composure under pressure.
In our chat, he reflects on the lessons that shaped him, from being left out of the 1st XV at Newington College to lifting the Rugby World Cup with Australia in 1991. His story is a powerful reminder that high performance isn’t a destination, it’s a mindset.
For Nick, the keys are simple but uncompromising:
• Mindset - How good can I be? Never being satisfied
• Discipline - You’re either in it or you’re not
• Consistant Effort - Physical and mental
In this episode, we explore:
• What leadership under pressure really looks like
• How to build trust and connection in a team
• Why the best are never satisfied
• The habits that keep champions grounded
One moment that stuck with me was when I asked Nick what surprised him most about high performance.He said: “How few people achieve it. I know so many great sportspeople who never got close to reaching their potential - 99% of people miss out.”
Nick’s perspective is shaped by both triumph and reflection. After winning Australia’s first Rugby World Cup in 1991, he and the team didn’t settle. They went on to beat the All Blacks and Springboks in 1992.
This episode is a masterclass in leadership and legacy.
Next up: Cross-country skiing has always held a special place in my heart. I was a successful junior racer growing up, a kid who dreamed of the Olympics, so the next conversation feels personal. I sit down with Seve de Campo, one of Australia’s top cross-country skiers, to talk about resilience, identity and what it takes to keep pushing forward when no one’s watching.
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of High Performance with Joe Sprange.
Connect with Nick Farr-Jones:
🔗 LinkedIn
🌐 taurusfunds.com.au
