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In 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 the Technical Lead for Strength & Conditioning at the English Institute of Sport. He is widely recognised for his expertise in strength and conditioning, training transfer, and performance optimisation.
Across the conversation, we cover:
Guest, Cast & Crew
Hosted by Martin I. Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk
Produced & edited by Bess Manley
Resources
https://www.ufcpi.com/
https://www.instagram.com/dr_duncan_french/?hl=en
https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-french-phd-a41bb9122/
Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review. If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Chapters
00:52 The Challenges of Combat Sports
01:59 Duncan French's Background and Role
03:51 Evolution of Strength and Conditioning
05:45 Multidisciplinary Approach at UFC Performance Institute
09:08 Fighter Mentality and Buy-In
13:07 Human Performance Optimization in Military and Sports
18:47 Year-Round Training and Readiness
24:40 Physiological and Psychological Demands of MMA
31:04 The Double-Edged Sword of Training Intensity
32:27 Evolution of Fighters: From Brawlers to Technicians
33:32 The FMA Model: Fighter, Martial Artist, Athlete
35:12 Military Training and MMA: Cross-Disciplinary Insights
38:05 The Role of Technology in Performance Monitoring
44:00 Humanistic Approach in Sports Science
46:52 Challenges in Fighter Training and Recovery
49:39 Managing Overreaching and Allostatic Load
57:31 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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.
Dr Dave Collins is a leading expert in sport and performance psychology. With decades of experience, he has worked with over 70 World or Olympic medalists and professional teams. Dave is a Professorial Fellow at the University of Edinburgh and Director at Grey Matters Performance Ltd. He specialises in developing individuals and teams to perform under pressure and has coached at the national level in three sports.
Don’t miss expert interviews on optimizing human performance. Subscribe to Peak Potential on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help others discover evidence-based strategies for high performance.
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How 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 anyone interested in the science of performance, recovery, and resilience.
Key Topics:
Guest
Chris Tombs has over 30 years of experience in strength and conditioning across professional rugby, action sports, cricket, and the military. His current work focuses on preparing soldiers for the physical and mental demands of their roles.
Host
Martin Jones — ophp.co.uk
Producer
Bess Manley
Connect with Chris Tombs:
If you found this episode useful, please rate, share, and review the show. To suggest guests or topics, email [email protected] or connect on LinkedIn.
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In 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 & Crew
Dr 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 of military health, nutrition, and cognitive resilience.
Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk
Produced & edited by Bess Manley
Resources
Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review. If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Chapters
01:41 Defining Resilience
02:26 Understanding Biomarkers
05:24 Molecular Biomarkers and Readiness
08:09 Cortisol and the Stress Response
20:08 Physiological Impact of Special Forces Training
37:13 Future Directions in Biomarker Research
38:59 Pre-Workout Supplements and Performance
41:08 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In 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 & Crew
Nathalie 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 special forces candidates.
Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk
Produced & edited by Bess Manley
Resources
Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review. If you have feedback, guest suggestions, or topics you'd love us to cover, please email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Chapters
01:09 Founding the Viper Research Unit
01:57 Research Focus and Applications
02:54 Training for Extreme Roles
04:23 The Importance of Rest and Recovery
05:37 Selection and Robustness
14:44 Challenges in Selection Processes
24:22 Antarctic Missions and Remote Medicine
31:46 Cognitive and Physiological Research
38:50 Emerging Technologies and Practical Advice
42:18 Leadership and Duty of Care
46:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In 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 the exciting new field of physiological resilience.
Whether you're an elite athlete, a dedicated runner, or simply curious about pushing human limits, this episode offers practical advice on how to enhance your endurance and build resilience. Learn about specific training practices of elite athletes, understand how to balance training intensity, and get practical tips for improving your own endurance.
Key Topics Covered:
About Professor Andy Jones:
Professor Andy Jones is a highly respected academic and researcher at the University of Exeter, specialising in exercise physiology and endurance sports. His distinguished career encompasses extensive research into factors affecting aerobic performance, as well as significant contributions to world-record-breaking athletic achievements.
Resources Mentioned:
01:33 Andy Jones' Background and Research
02:42 Conceptualising Endurance Performance
03:15 VO2 Max and Its Importance
04:14 Thresholds and Critical Speed
05:19 Physiological Resilience: The Fourth Dimension
06:09 Impact of Fatigue on Endurance
08:31 Variability in Critical Power
09:43 Multi-Day Endurance Events
11:29 Psychological and Physiological Resilience
15:02 Training for Endurance and Resilience
15:55 Specific Training Practices of Elite Athletes
18:56 Practical Tips for Improving Endurance
24:26 Training Intensity Distribution
26:37 Balancing Training Intensity
27:19 Understanding Critical Power
29:09 Training Insights from Elite Athletes
31:24 Critical Speed and Its Measurement
34:56 Applying Critical Speed in Various Contexts
38:45 Breaking the Two-Hour Marathon Barrier
42:44 Future of Endurance Science and Technology
Did you find this episode valuable? Please take a moment to rate, share, and review the podcast. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners! If you have questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to cover, email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn.
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This 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 & Crew
Gregory 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, and track cycling. More recently, his work has expanded to developing effective **training strategies for defence personnel**, preparing them for demanding physical challenges.
Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk
Produced & edited by Bess Manley
Resources
Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review. If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Chapters
00:11 Greg's Journey into Sports Science
01:41 Understanding Periodisation
03:27 Holistic Approach to Training
06:01 Psychological Aspects of Training
09:01 Historical Evolution of Periodisation
15:44 Fundamental Principles of Periodisation
22:34 Applying Periodisation in Tactical Environments
25:34 Key Components of Tactical Training
26:38 Integrating CrossFit and Tactical Training
27:26 Challenges and Benefits of CrossFit
28:56 Effective Training Strategies
35:45 Physiological Impact of Selection Courses
38:03 Research Findings and Recommendations
46:35 Concluding Thoughts
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
World-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 & Crew
Dr. 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 track and improve their sleep.
Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk
Produced & edited by Bess Manley
Resources
Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review. If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Chapters
00:15 Introducing Michael: Sleep Researcher and Clinical Psychologist
01:39 Understanding the Importance of Sleep
03:10 Debunking Sleep Myths: Blue Light and Sleep Hygiene
11:06 The Truth About Magnesium and Sleep
15:17 Technology and Sleep: Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Regulation
18:31 Sleep Challenges in Children and Adolescents
20:40 Navigating the Sleep Roadmap
21:25 Sleep Solutions for Infants and Teenagers
22:26 Technology's Impact on Sleep
25:03 Challenges in High-Stress Professions
28:51 Personalized Sleep Strategies
37:14 Follow Science, Not Scientists
41:08 Final Thoughts and Resources
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Afghanistan 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 & Crew
Luke 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.
Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk
Produced & edited by Bess Manley
Resources
Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review. If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Chapters
00:10 Luke’s Background and Career Journey
03:13 Counter IED Operations in Afghanistan
05:55 Challenges and Responsibilities of Command
14:30 The Incident and Aftermath
21:55 Arrival at DMRC Headley Court
22:23 Life in the Rehabilitation Facility
25:02 Meeting JP and the Role of PTIs
26:30 Understanding Resilience
30:20 The Importance of Humor and Sport in Rehab
35:24 Operation Surf and Its Impact
37:25 Transition to Long Jumping
40:27 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In 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 recovery in the future.
This episode is essential for anyone interested in neurology, brain health, sports medicine, military health, rehabilitation, cognitive science, and the future of healthcare technology.
Guest, Cast & Crew
Huw Williams is a Professor of Clinical Neuropsychology and Co-Director of the Centre for Clinical Neuropsychology Research at Exeter University. He has published papers and books and held grants in a range of areas of Clinical Neuropsychology, particularly on neuro-rehabilitation and recently regarding crime.
Hosted by Martin Jones & Jonpaul Nevin https://www.ophp.co.uk
Produced and edited by Bess Manley
Resources
Thanks for tuning in. If you found this podcast valuable, please take a moment to rate, share and review. If you have feedback, guest suggestions or topics that you'd love us to cover, then do email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn.
Chapters
01:58 What is Clinical Neuropsychology?
02:49 Case Study: The Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury
07:14 Types of Brain Injuries and Their Consequences
14:27 Repetitive Sub-Concussive Head Injuries
19:18 Screening and Monitoring for Brain Injuries
25:11 Brain Connectivity and Concussions
25:36 Advanced Brain Imaging Techniques
27:22 Biomarkers and Screening for Brain Injuries
28:46 Brain Injuries in Prison Populations
29:42 Negative Outcomes of Brain Injuries
31:13 Support Systems for Brain Injury Rehabilitation
36:19 Policy Implications and Recommendations
47:08 Future Technologies in Brain Injury Detection
48:59 Final Thoughts and Key Messages
"Thanks for tuning in! If you found this discussion on brain injury and human performance valuable, please take a moment to rate, share, and review our podcast. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners. For suggestions, guest ideas, or topics you'd like us to cover, email us at [email protected] or connect with us on LinkedIn.
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.uk
Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ophp/
Instagram: @ophumanperformance
If you found this episode useful, please share it with one colleague, subscribe, and leave a review – it helps us reach more people who operate in high‑stakes environments.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From the publisher's feed
Optimising Human Performance is the podcast for people who can’t afford to fail. If you work in the military, defence and security, emergency services, first response, elite sport, or any other…
Hosted by Dr Martin I. Jones, the podcast brings together world‑leading experts, cutting‑edge science, and hard‑won field experience.
Martin explores how to optimise physical, psychological, and cognitive performance in contexts where the stakes are high, the margins are thin, and the cost of failure can be severe.
In each episode, you’ll hear from guests such as leading scientists, military and emergency services professionals, elite coaches, clinicians, and operators who have performed in extremis. Conversations blend rigorous research with real‑world application, making complex science accessible and directly applicable.
Topics include:
Across the series, you’ll learn:
The focus is always on what you can actually do: checklists, frameworks, mental models, and small, practical changes that make a meaningful difference in demanding environments. Episodes are designed so that you can take at least one actionable idea back to your unit, team, watch, squad, clinic, or organisation.
Whether you are a commander, paramedic, firefighter, police officer, intelligence analyst, surgeon, coach, or performance specialist, Optimising Human Performance will help you:
If your work involves protecting others, making critical decisions, or operating when the pressure is on, this podcast is for you.
Subscribe to Optimising Human Performance to hear from the people who study, train, and live high performance in the most challenging conditions, and to learn how you can do the same.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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