Shows
Optimising Human PerformanceAre You Born to Run on Less Sleep? A Neuroscientist's Guide to Genes, Fatigue, and Practical Strategies for High-Stress Environments: With Dr Alison BragerIn this episode, Martin & JP talk to Dr Allison Brager, an active-duty Army officer and neuroscientist specialising in sleep and fatigue research.Dr. Brager shares her pioneering research on how both acute and chronic sleep deprivation affect physiological, cognitive, and emotional performance, especially in high-stakes environments. She breaks down the genetic factors that make some individuals resilient to sleep loss, debunks common myths about "training" yourself to need less sleep, and reveals the critical role of sleep in energy (ATP) production outside of the brain. Plus, learn about the military's evidence-based strategies for managing inevitable fatigue...
2026-02-0441 min
Optimising Human PerformanceThe Science of Mental Fatigue: Strategies for High Performance & Endurance with Prof Sam MarcoraAre you ready to unlock your full potential in high-demand situations?Join hosts Martin Jones and Jonpaul Nevin on the Optimising Human Performance podcast as they dive deep into the fascinating truth about mental fatigue with one of the world's most cited sport scientists, Professor Samuele Marcora.Discover groundbreaking and often surprising research findings that redefine the limits of human capability. We don't just explore the problem; Sam provides immediately applicable, practical strategies for mitigating mental fatigue, including:Strategic caffeine use to combat fatigue.The science behind brain endurance traini...
2026-01-2144 min
Optimising Human PerformanceFrom SAS Operator to Psychologist: Harry Moffitt on the Power of Stoicism and the 'Fourth Pillar'In this episode, we’re talking to Harry Moffitt - SAS veteran, psychologist & human performance consultant. The physical, psychological and social pillars of human performance are well known, but Harry believes that, as a society, we have forgotten the crucial fourth pillar, our philosophical self. We discuss the importance of philosophy as a tool for navigating our uncertain world. We explore how ancient wisdom, developed thousands of years ago, remains deeply relevant today. Guest, Cast & CrewHarry Moffitt retired from the Australian Defence Force after almost 30 years, most of which were spent with Australia’s eli...
2026-01-0748 min
Optimising Human PerformanceRebuilding After Catastrophe: The Power of Mindset, Sport, and Humour with Luke SinnottEpisode OverviewThis special Christmas re-release revisits one of our most powerful conversations: Afghanistan veteran Luke Sinnott shares his extraordinary journey after losing both legs in an IED explosion. Luke opens up about the physical and psychological challenges of his rehabilitation, and the crucial role that sport and humour have played in rebuilding his life and mindset.Guest, Cast & CrewGuest: Luke Sinnott – Former Royal Engineers Search Advisor, Afghanistan (2010). Luke lost both legs in service, went on to represent Great Britain in para sailing and long jump, and is now training to...
2025-12-2444 min
Optimising Human PerformanceFuel Like a Pro: Inside the Science of Performance Nutrition with Professor Javi GonzalezFuel Like a Pro: Inside the Science of Endurance Nutrition with the former lead performance nutritionist for Team INEOS’s pro cycling. In This EpisodeMartin & JP talk to Professor Javier Gonzalez about food and how we can use it to get the most out of our bodies. They discuss dietary strategies that make a real difference to performance, the science behind popular diets, and the importance of finding the right balance in high-stress, high-performance environments.Guest, Cast & CrewGuest: Pro...
2025-12-1048 min
Optimising Human PerformanceInside the UFC Performance Institute: Strength, Conditioning, and MMA with Dr Duncan FrenchIn this episode of Optimising Human Performance, Martin I. Jones and Jonpaul Nevin sit down with Dr Duncan French, Senior Vice President of the UFC Performance Institute, to explore what it really takes to prepare fighters, and other high‑stakes performers, to operate in chaos.Dr French leads the global high‑performance operation for over 700 UFC athletes, with Performance Institute facilities in Las Vegas, Shanghai, and Mexico City. With more than 20 years of experience across 40+ professional and Olympic sports, he has previously served as the Director of Performance Sciences at the University of Notre Dame and as t...
2025-11-261h 00
Optimising Human PerformanceThe Psychology of Peak Performance: How to Deliver When It Really Counts (with Dave Collins)Join hosts Martin Jones and Jonpaul Nevin for Series 3, Episode 4 of the Peak Potential podcast by OpHP (Optimal Human Performance). This episode features renowned performance psychologist Dr Dave Collins, who shares expert strategies for maximising human performance through psychological skills. Discover how elite athletes, coaches, and high-stakes professionals can harness the power of the brain, mental imagery, and quality practice to achieve excellence under pressure.Key Topics CoveredPsychological skills for peak performanceThe role of the brain in elite performanceTalent identification and developmentThe impact of quality practiceImagery techniques, including PETTLEP imageryOvercoming trauma and...
2025-11-1241 min
Optimising Human PerformanceBuilding Resilient Athletes and Lasting Performance with Expert Strength and Conditioning Coach Chris TombsHow can athletes train smarter for long-term success? Performance coach Chris Tombs joins host Martin Jones to discuss how to build physically and psychologically resilient athletes. With more than 30 years of experience in elite sport and military performance, Chris shares insights on sustainable training, recovery, and human connection in coaching.The conversation covers velocity-based training, reducing orthopaedic stress, and maintaining peak performance without burnout. Chris explains how to create training systems that promote longevity, adaptability, and consistent improvement, helping athletes perform better for longer.This episode is a practical guide for coaches, trainers, and any...
2025-10-2951 min
Optimising Human PerformanceDecoding Resilience: Biomarkers and Beyond with Dr. Meaghan BecknerIn this episode, Martin & JP talk to Dr Meaghan Beckner about her work in biomarker research. They explore the concept of resilience and the use of biomarkers to measure physiological and psychological readiness. They discuss the potential of wearable technology, the importance of omics, and the validity of using pre-workout supplements. Guest, Cast & CrewDr Meaghan Beckner is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, where she is involved in innovative studies aimed at optimizing the performance and well-being of military personnel. She specializes in the intersection o...
2025-10-1544 min
Optimising Human PerformanceFrom Antarctica to Space: Lessons in Human Optimisation with Prof Nathalie PattynIn this episode, Martin & JP talk to Nathalie Pattyn about human performance in operational environments. They discuss the importance of rest and recovery in training, the role of robustness and the challenges of leadership in high-performance settings. Nathalie has extensive experience working in Antarctica, and the conversation explores the adaptability required to excel in that environment.Guest, Cast & CrewNathalie Pattyn is an emergency doctor, psychologist and academic with 30 years of experience in the Belgian defence force. She heads up VIPER – a research unit that investigates human performance in selected populations, from astronauts to sp...
2025-10-0151 min
Optimising Human PerformanceBreaking Barriers: The Science of Endurance with Professor Andy JonesIn this captivating episode of OpHP, hosts Martin Jones and Jonpaul Nevin sit down with the eminent physiologist Professor Andy Jones, a leading figure in endurance sports science. Discover the cutting-edge research that propelled the world's first sub-2-hour marathon, a feat where Professor Jones played a pivotal role in Nike's Breaking2 project.Professor Jones, renowned for his expertise in aerobic capacity, lactate thresholds, and exercise economy, shares invaluable insights into the science behind optimising endurance performance. This discussion extends beyond traditional metrics, such as VO2 max, to explore the crucial concepts of critical speed and...
2025-09-1746 min
Optimising Human PerformanceProfessor Greg Haff: Training for ExcellenceThis episode is a deep dive into the field of periodisation with world-leading expert Professor Gregory Haff. We explore what periodisation is, why it’s important and how it can be used to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury.Guest, Cast & CrewGregory Haff is a highly respected strength scientist, researcher, strength and conditioning coach, weightlifting coach and author. His extensive research focuses on improving resistance training methodologies for athletes to enhance performance and prevent injuries. Professor Haff has collaborated with numerous National and Olympic teams across various sports, including weightlifting, rowing, an...
2025-09-0351 min
Optimising Human PerformanceSleep Science: Debunking Myths & Optimising Your Rest with Prof. Michael GradisarWorld-renowned sleep expert Dr. Michael Gradisar explains the truth behind some of the most commonly misunderstood topics regarding sleep, including the impact of blue light, technology and magnesium. He also discusses the unique sleep challenges faced by high-stress professionals, and offers practical advice for helping children and adolescents to sleep better. Guest, Cast & CrewDr. Michael Gradisar is a sleep researcher and clinical psychologist specialising in sleep disorders, specifically insomnia & circadian rhythm disorders. After many years working in academia, he is currently Head of Sleep Science at sleepcycle.com, an app that helps users to...
2025-08-2044 min
Optimising Human PerformanceLuke Sinnott: Facing Adversity, An Inspiring Journey of Resilience and DeterminationAfghanistan veteran Luke Sinnot talks candidly about the experience of losing both his legs in an IED explosion and his journey through rehabilitation. He describes the physical and psychological challenges that he faced, and the pivotal role that sport and humour have played in his recovery. Guest, Cast & CrewLuke Sinnott lost both his legs while serving as a Royal Engineers Search Advisor in Afghanistan in 2010. He has since gone on to represent Great Britain in both para sailing and long jump and is currently training to be a commercial pilot.
2025-08-0643 min
Optimising Human PerformanceBrain Injury & Human Performance: Understanding Trauma, Rehabilitation & Future Technology with Professor Huw WilliamsIn this insightful episode, join Martin and JP as they delve into the intricate world of brain injury with leading clinical neuropsychologist Professor Huw Williams. Discover the profound impacts of brain trauma on cognition, emotions, and behaviour, and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in neuro-rehabilitation.The discussion also tackles the critical challenges of detecting and treating often-overlooked repetitive sub-concussive head injuries, particularly in high-risk professions such as the military and sports. Learn about the crucial role of screening systems and the exciting potential of AI and big data to revolutionize brain injury treatment and recov...
2025-07-2352 min
Optimising Human PerformanceNavigating Hostile Environments: Extreme Adventure, Mental Fortitude & Survival with Aldo KaneWorld-record-setting adventurer and extreme location safety expert Aldo Kane talks to Martin and Jonpaul about the challenges of working in hostile environments, from active volcanoes to big wall climbs. They explore strategies for dealing with stress, the impacts of isolation on mental health, the importance of character and the role of physical fitness. They also discuss how Aldo prepares for his expeditions and how he decompresses afterwards. Guest, Cast & CrewAldo Kane is a world record-setting adventurer, an extreme environment specialist, and a former Royal Marine Commando sniper. With over a decade of military s...
2025-07-0958 min
Optimising Human PerformanceAddressing Addiction in High-Performance Environments with Pam DiamondIn this episode, Martin and JP discuss addiction with addiction specialist nurse, Pam Diamond, a seasoned mental health nurse with a privileged career dedicated to addiction and trauma, particularly within the military environment. Pam shares her unique insights from years working with the Royal Marines and other services, revealing the hidden struggles faced by high-performing individuals.We explore:The invisible battle: Why addiction, especially to alcohol, becomes a sneaky and often encouraged coping mechanism in demanding fields like the military.Beyond alcohol: Pam sheds light on other prevalent but...
2025-06-2542 min
Optimising Human PerformanceMindfulness and Mental Health with Tim BoughtonIn this episode, Martin and JP talk with Tim Boughton, whose own personal experiences with PTSD led him to become a trailblazer in the world of mental health, with a particular expertise in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and trauma. They explore the misconceptions around mindfulness, the stigma associated with mental health, and how understanding the mind-body connection challenges existing military practices. Tim also introduces a simple mindfulness practice for listeners and offers insights around integrating these practices into various domains.Guest, Cast & CrewTim Boughton is a leading expert in the field of military...
2025-06-1156 min
Optimising Human PerformanceMovement and Skill Acquisition with Dr Chris ConnaboyEpisode 4 : Movement and Skill Acquisition with Dr Chris ConnaboyIn this episode, Martin and JP talk to Dr Chris Connaboy, an expert in movement, coordination and skill acquisition. They discuss motor control, perception-action coupling and Chris’ ground-breaking new research into gait analysis. The episode also includes practical advice on training for load carriage, the importance of individualised strength conditioning, and investigating rate limiters. Guest, Cast & CrewDr Chris Connaboy is an eminent academic based at the Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in Chicago who has carried out research for NAS...
2025-05-2845 min
Optimising Human PerformanceUnlocking Expertise with Prof Mark WilliamsEpisode 3Unlocking Expertise: The Science Behind Skill Acquisition and Decision MakingIn this episode, Martin talks to Professor Mark Williams, a leading authority on the acquisition and development of expertise. They discuss skill acquisition, the role of experience and purposeful practice. They also explore the use of simulators, the unique challenges of maintaining skills in high-stress environments and the importance of evidence-based practices in improving performance.Guest, Cast & CrewMark Williams is one of the world’s leading authorities on expertise and its acquisition in sport. He also has ex...
2025-05-1453 min
Optimising Human PerformanceOptimising Human Performance With Sam PetersEpisode 2 - Concussion in High Performance EnvironmentsMartin and Jonpaul talk to award-winning author and sports journalist Sam Peters about concussion. They discuss the role of emerging technologies in diagnosing concussion in both sport and military contexts and the potentially devastating impacts of asymptomatic sub-concussive blows.Guest, Cast & CrewSam Peters’ work has transformed sport’s attitude towards head injuries. He was the driving force behind the Mail on Sunday’s concussion in rugby campaign and has recently published a critically-acclaimed book on the topic, called Concussed: Sport’s Uncomfortable Truth....
2025-04-3047 min
Optimising Human PerformanceInnovations in Performance Tech with Dr David PutrinoEPISODE 1: Innovations in Performance Tech with Dr David PutrinoMartin and Jonpaul talk to neuroscientist Dr David Putrino, whose job it is to find innovative human performance technologies and roadtest them. From brain stimulation to mitochondrial supplements, David takes us through the tech that works and the stuff that doesn’t live up to the hype. He also shares insights from his work with high-performance athletes at Red Bull. Guest, Cast & CrewDr David Putrino is the Director of Rehabilitation Innovation for the Mount Sinai Health System, a network of hospitals in...
2025-04-1651 min
Optimising Human PerformanceMeet Martin Jones and Jonpaul Nevin - Meet the Hosts of the Human Performance PodcastMartin Jones and Jonpaul Nevin, hosts of the Optimising Human Performance Podcast share their story, why they have produced this podcast and why it is important to the community of individuals and teams working in high-stress and high stakes environments.Thanks for listening to Optimising Human Performance.This podcast is for people who can’t afford to fail. Each episode gives you practical, evidence‑based tools you can apply in the real world.For more about the podcast, speaking, coaching, and mentoring, visit:www.ophp.co.ukConnect with us:
2024-08-0507 min
Optimising Human PerformanceProfessor Steve Peters; The Chimp Paradox, Imposter Syndrome and Antecedents of Human PerformanceEPISODE 12: The Chimp Paradox with Professor Steve PetersIn this episode, Martin and Jonpaul talk to renowned psychiatrist Professor Steve Peters, who specialises in the functioning of the human mind. They discuss his famous ‘Chimp Model’ and its application in high-stress environments. They explore imposter syndrome and the antecedents of high performance.Guest, Cast & CrewProfessor Steve Peters is a medical doctor specialising in mental health and the functioning of the human mind. His work spans education, the national health service, the corporate world, and elite sports. He helps people understand how t...
2024-07-3157 min
Optimising Human PerformanceProfessor Russell Foster; Sleep, Circadian Neuroscience & Human PerformanceEPISODE 11: Sleep, Circadian Neuroscience & Human PerformanceIn this episode, Martin and Jonpaul talk to Professor Russell Foster, a world-renowned expert on sleep and circadian rhythms. They discuss the importance of sleep and circadian rhythms for human performance, how the circadian system provides the time structure for life, optimising physiology and behavior, and highlight some evidence-based strategies for enhancing sleep quality and quantity. Guest, Cast & CrewRussell Foster is Professor of Circadian Neuroscience, director of the Sir Jules Thorn Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute and the head of The Nuf...
2024-07-241h 09
Optimising Human PerformanceProfessor Colin Espie; Mastering Sleep for High-Stakes EnvironmentsEPISODE 10: Mastering Sleep for High-Stakes EnvironmentsIn this episode, Martin and Jonpaul talk to Professor Colin Espie, a world-leading expert on sleep and treating sleep disorders, particularly using cognitive behavioural therapeutics (CBTI) to treat insomnia disorder. They discuss how sleep contributes to physical and mental health, the five principles of sleep health and the treatment options for insomnia. They debunk myths such as a 'sleepless elite’ & explore the intricate relationship between sleep, memory consolidation and trauma recovery.Guest, Cast & CrewColin Espie is a professor of sleep medicine in...
2024-07-1752 min
Optimising Human PerformanceMartin Brennan & Emma Higginson-Smith; The Green RoomEPISODE 9: Maximizing Mental Fitness with Outdoor Wellbeing CoachingMartin and Jonpaul are joined by Emma Higginson-Smith and Martin Brennan from The Green Room, which provides outdoor well-being coaching, leadership, and organisational development to maximise mental fitness and prevent burnout. They discuss the importance of mental fitness and the role of wellbeing coaching and introduce the concept of the ‘green room’. Guest, Cast & CrewMartin Brennan was a police officer for 30 years and has represented UK Policing at the United Nations as an advisor to UN peacekeeping missions. He has led police teams...
2024-07-1049 min
Optimising Human PerformanceDr Will Conkright; Feeding the Force - Tactical NutritionEPISODE 8: Feeding the Force: A Tactical Dietitian’s Guide to Optimal Health & PerformanceIn this episode, Martin and Jonpaul talk to tactical dietician Dr. Will Conkright about the role of a dietitian in the military and the challenges he faces. We dive into the basics of optimal nutrition and examine how people working in high-stress, high-stakes environments can leverage good nutritional habits to positively influence physical and cognitive performance, rest, recovery and sleep. Guest, Cast & CrewDr Will Conkright is a registered dietitian and researcher with over 16 years of experience in c...
2024-07-0347 min
Optimising Human PerformanceDr Preston Cline; Navigating UncertaintyEPISODE 7: Navigating Uncertainty - Insights from Mission Critical TeamsMartin and Jonpaul speak with Dr. Preston Cline, co-founder and principal of the Mission Critical Team Institute. They discuss the characteristics of effective mission-critical teams, how to improve cohesion and facilitate within-career transitions, both into and out of these high-stress roles.Guest, Cast & CrewPreston is the co-founder and principal at the Mission Critical Team Institute, where he also serves as the director of research. He co-founded the Mission Critical Team Institute to support the instructor cadres of small teams that com...
2024-06-2657 min
Optimising Human PerformanceProfessor Daniel Gucciardi; Mental Toughness & ResilienceEPISODE 6: Resilience and Mental ToughnessMartin Jones and Jonpaul are joined by human performance expert Professor Daniel Gucciardi to explore resilience as an emergent outcome in high-performance settings. Guest, Cast & CrewDaniel Gucciardi is a professor at Curtin University. He is a distinguished expert on stress, resilience and mental toughness and has published more than 150 peer-reviewed articles. His research focuses on personal and contextual factors related to high performance, health behaviours and wellbeing in contexts such as sport, education and the workplace. Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin http...
2024-06-1939 min
Optimising Human PerformanceDr Rob Orr; Tactical Physical Training for Peak PerformanceEPISODE 5: Optimising Tactical Physical Training for Peak PerformanceIn this episode, Martin & Jonpaul are joined by Professor Rob Orr, director of the Tactical Research Unit at Bond University. They discuss optimising training for physically demanding tasks as well as sedentary working, the relationship between physical fitness and cognitive performance, and the value of an individualised approach to training. Guest, Cast & CrewProfessor Rob Orr served in the Australian Army for over 20 years as an infantry soldier, physical training instructor, uniformed physiotherapist and human performance officer. In his role at the Tactical Re...
2024-06-1247 min
Optimising Human PerformanceDr Tom Curran; The Perfection TrapEPISODE 4: The Perfection TrapThis week, Martin & Jonpaul are joined by Dr Thomas Curran, a world-leading expert on perfectionism. They break down perfectionism to understand what it really is and challenge some of the myths that link perfectionism with high performance. How we can prevent perfectionism from hindering our health, wellbeing, productivity and performance?Guest, Cast & CrewDr Thomas Curran is an Associate Professor at the London School of Economics. He's a world-leading expert on perfectionism whose work has been featured in Time magazine, the Harvard Business Review, New Scientist, and the...
2024-06-0555 min
Optimising Human PerformanceTim Jacques; Leadership & Wellbeing Insights from a Policing CareerEPISODE 3Leadership and Wellbeing: Lessons and Insights from a Policing CareerIn this episode, Martin & Jonpaul are joined by Tim Jacques - former Deputy Assistant Commissioner at the UK’s Counterterrorism Policing HQ. They discuss health and wellbeing in high-stress positions and the role of senior leaders in optimising wellbeing and performance.Guest, Cast & CrewTim Jacques retired in February 2024 after 37 years in policing. He completed his service as a Deputy Assistant Commissioner in UK Counter Terrorism's Policing Headquarters based in New Scotland Yard. Counter Terrorism Policing is an 8,000 peo...
2024-05-2935 min
Optimising Human PerformanceDr Jutta Tobias-Mortlock; Next Generation MindfulnessEPISODE 2: Next Generation Mindfulness: the New Frontier for Peak PerformanceIn this episode, Martin & Jonpaul are joined by social psychologist Dr Jutta Tobias-Mortlock to discuss the role that mindfulness training can play in high-performance settings. Guest, Cast & CrewJutta Tobias-Mortlock is a reader in organisational psychology at City University and is the co-director of its Centre for Excellence in Mindfulness Research. Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk Edited by Bess ManleyProduced by Wavell Room https://wav...
2024-05-2251 min
Optimising Human PerformanceProfessor Michael Matthews; The Role of Psychology in Human Performance OptimizationEPISODE 1: The Role of Psychology in Human Performance OptimizationThis week, Martin & Jonpaul talk to eminent psychologist Professor Michael Matthews. Mike shares insights from his extensive career across a wide-range of topics including the importance of non-cognitive factors such as grit, developing character traits and the role of organisational culture. Guest, Cast & CrewMichael Matthews is professor of engineering psychology in the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership at the United States Military Academy at West Point. He has authored over 250 scientific papers and is the co-editor of several leading te...
2024-05-1545 min
Optimising Human PerformanceEpisode 1 Trailer1 week before the launch of the optimising human performance podcast, Martin introduces the first episode due in May 2024.To find out more about the podcast and the hosts, go.wavellroom.com/ophpwr Thanks for listening to Optimising Human Performance.This podcast is for people who can’t afford to fail. Each episode gives you practical, evidence‑based tools you can apply in the real world.For more about the podcast, speaking, coaching, and mentoring, visit:www.ophp.co.ukConnect with us:LinkedIn: https://www...
2024-05-0801 min
Optimising Human PerformanceSeason Trailer - An introduction to Optimising Human PerformanceHear from Martin Jones and Jonpaul Nevin in this trailer for the Optimising Human Performance Podcast.Thanks for listening to Optimising Human Performance.This podcast is for people who can’t afford to fail. Each episode gives you practical, evidence‑based tools you can apply in the real world.For more about the podcast, speaking, coaching, and mentoring, visit:www.ophp.co.ukConnect with us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/Instagram: @ophumanperformanceIf you found this episode useful, please share it w...
2024-05-0703 min