What assumptions shape the decisions you make every day without you even realising it?

We drink water every day.

Yet most of us have never stopped to question it.

In this episode, I'm joined by Doran Binder, founder of Crag Spring Water and certified Water Sommelier, for a conversation that begins with water but quickly becomes something much bigger.

Together, we explore how assumptions influence the decisions we make, often without us even recognising they're there.

In this episode, you'll discover:

💧 Why two bottles carrying the same brand name can contain completely different water.

💧 What the Romans understood about water thousands of years ago—and why it still matters today.

💧 The debate surrounding Scottish tap water and why perception often outweighs evidence.

💧 Why every company claims to have "the best" product—and why Doran chose education instead.

💧 What hydration in elite sport, including the FIFA World Cup, can teach us about questioning accepted beliefs.

What this conversation really made me question...

If we rarely stop to question something as fundamental as the water we drink every day, where else might we be accepting assumptions without ever testing them?

What stayed with me wasn't the science.

It was Doran's philosophy.

Before entering the industry, he noticed that every company claimed to sell the "best" water.

Rather than adding another voice to the noise, he chose to educate people instead, helping people understand the differences so they could make informed decisions for themselves.

For me, that's the real lesson.

This conversation isn't really about water.

It's about curiosity.

It's about slowing down long enough to question what we've always accepted as true.

Because whether we're talking about water, health, business, leadership or performance, the quality of our decisions is often determined by the quality of the questions we're willing to ask.

About Doran Binder

Doran Binder is the founder of Crag Spring Water, a certified Water Sommelier and creator of The Bearded Water Sommelier.

Through education, speaking and his work with Crag Spring Water, Doran helps people better understand hydration, bottled water and the assumptions that influence everyday choices.

Learn more:

🌐 www.beardedwatersommelier.co.uk

🌐 www.cragspringwater.co.uk

Connect with Doran on: Facebook, Linkedin, Youtube, TikTok and Instagram

Continue the conversation

Every meaningful conversation should leave us with better questions than when we started.

If this episode challenged one of your own assumptions and you'd like greater clarity around your performance, leadership or business thinking, you can complete my free Performance Clarity Assessment.

Rather than generic advice, you'll receive personalised feedback designed to help uncover the principles, constraints and opportunities that may be shaping your progress.

Complete the assessment: https://forms.gle/dGG2PsPq7PoSxq5q6

I'd also love to hear what stood out for you from this conversation.

Connect with James Owen Roberts on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok and Instagram, and let me know:

What assumption did this conversation make you question?

Why I'm Back | The Next Chapter of The Mindset Athlete

After more than three years away from the microphone, I'm back.

Not because I have everything figured out.

But because I've come to believe that every meaningful conversation should leave us with better questions than when we started.

Over the past few years, my own thinking has evolved.

What began as a podcast exploring mindset in sport has grown into something much broader: a search for the principles that shape performance in business, leadership and everyday life.

This episode marks the beginning of that next chapter.

In this episode, I share:

• Why I stepped away from podcasting.
• What those years away taught me.
• Why I decided the time was right to return.
• How my understanding of performance has changed.
• What you can expect from future conversations on The Mindset Athlete.

What this conversation really made me question...

Why are we so quick to search for better answers, yet so reluctant to question the assumptions behind the questions we're asking?

Looking back, stepping away from the podcast wasn't time lost.

It gave me the space to think more deeply about what I wanted these conversations to become.

I've realised that meaningful growth rarely begins with another tactic, another framework or another piece of advice.

It begins with a better question.

That's what I hope this podcast becomes.

Not a place that tells people what to think.

But a place that helps them think more clearly for themselves.

Continue the conversation

Every meaningful conversation should leave us with better questions than when we started.

If this episode resonated with you and you'd like greater clarity around your own performance, leadership or business thinking, you can complete my free Performance Clarity Assessment.

Rather than generic advice, you'll receive personalised feedback designed to help uncover the principles, constraints and opportunities that may be shaping your progress.

Complete the assessment: https://forms.gle/xkWMsPFniKWFHU9R9

I'd also love to hear your reflections.

What question has stayed with you after listening?

Connect with James Owen Roberts on Facebook, Linkedin, Youtube, TikTok and Instagram

Welcome to a groundbreaking episode of our highly successful podcast, where we delve into the powerful work of Brad Mewhort, a visionary on a mission to prevent male-on-male violence and eradicate physical bullying. Brad's deep understanding of the personal effects and historic patterns of this issue has led him to author the compelling book, "The Peaceful Man: Heal Within Yourself the Personal Effects and Historic Patterns of Male-on-Male Violence."

In this captivating conversation, we explore Brad Mewhort's extensive training and certifications in developmental coaching, somatic practices, group facilitation, and transformative change. These qualifications serve as the foundation for his groundbreaking approach to promoting healing, compassion, and understanding among men.

Drawing upon his vast expertise, Brad reveals the underlying causes of male-on-male violence and explores the transformative power of self-reflection and personal growth. Through his work, he challenges conventional notions of masculinity and offers a roadmap for men to navigate their emotions, communicate effectively, and develop healthy relationships.

Join us as we uncover Brad Mewhort's unique strategies for preventing violence and ending physical bullying. Discover how he empowers men to embrace their vulnerability, cultivate emotional intelligence, and create lasting change in their own lives and communities.

As marketers of this highly successful podcast, we are honored to host Brad Mewhort and share his groundbreaking insights with our listeners. His mission to redefine masculinity and promote peace resonates deeply in a world where toxic masculinity often goes unchallenged. Prepare to be captivated as Brad's wisdom shines through, igniting hope and inspiring action.

Tune in to this transformative episode, "Breaking the Cycle: Brad Mewhort's Mission to End Male-on-Male Violence," and embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and the pursuit of a violence-free future. This is a conversation you won't want to miss, as we collectively strive for a world where compassion and respect define the essence of manhood.

You can learn more about Brad via his website peacefulmanbook.com and connect with him on Facebook and Linkedin

For more information about James Roberts (the host of the podcast), visit jamesowenroberts.com and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube, Tik Tok and Instagram

In this awe-inspiring episode, join us as we sit down with the remarkable Chris Seilkop, a true embodiment of determination and resilience. With four Paralympic Games under his belt, Chris has left an indelible mark on the world of both standing and sitting volleyball.

From Atlanta 1996 to Rio 2016, Chris's journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit. Having competed in Athens 2004, Sydney 2000, and the most recent Rio 2016 Paralympics, Chris's stellar career is a true inspiration to athletes and non-athletes alike.

In this deeply personal conversation, Chris shares his incredible stories of triumph, the challenges he faced, and the mindset that fueled his success. Discover how he overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles, turned setbacks into opportunities, and found the strength to persevere on his path to becoming a champion.

We have had the privilege of hosting a wide range of exceptional guests, but Chris's story stands out as one that transcends sport. His experiences offer invaluable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering belief in oneself.

Join us as we dive deep into the mindset of a true champion and learn how Chris Seilkop continues to inspire others with his extraordinary journey. Whether you're an athlete seeking motivation, an avid sports fan, or someone looking for an uplifting and empowering story, this episode is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.

You can connect with him on Facebook and Instagram

For more information about James Roberts (the host of the podcast), visit jamesowenroberts.com and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube, Tik Tok and Instagram

Lois Hollis shifts our opinion on the taboo subject, shame and guilt. She is a shameguilt educator, counselor, filmmaker, author who coined the word shameguilt. Lois has always been a trailblazer as she helped develop one of the first Kidney Hemodialysis Units in the USA at Thomas Jefferson University in 1966. Today she not only shows us why shameguilt has led us to believe we are victims incapable of stellar lives but also HOW to make friends with our inner critic and kick shameguilt out of our lives. Lois was dying at 55 and today at 79, rollerblades with her grandson because she healed from the shameguilt of an abusive childhood. Lois was scarred with brain traumas, broken jaws, heart, liver, illnesses with 30 years of migraine headaches. Her impactful story shows us the immense power we reclaim when we release the shameguilt from our inner self. She has lectured widely, including the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, events, and podcast interviews in 15 countries. Her three books, spirit readings, and films that make shame guilt visible will teach us how and why we need to know the trickery of the shame guilt energy to accomplish our dreams.

You can learn more about Lois via her website loishollis.com and connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Instagram

For more information about James Roberts (the host of the podcast), visit jamesowenroberts.com and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube, Tik Tok and Instagram

David is a former world class professional Paralympic table tennis player who reached number 2 in the world rankings. He is a three-time Paralympian, two-time European Champion and World Championship medallist and has represented Great Britain at more than 70 global international tournaments.

David was born with a hole in his heart as well as a bone condition called Multiple Epiphyseal Dysplasia and has given a TED Talk on how having a disability can be a blessing. He has also exhibited, coached and lectured on table tennis and sport psychology extensively throughout the UK and in the corporate world, has established his own podcast, and has commentated on live television, including for BBC Sport and Sky Sports. Outside of work, David is patron for Disability Cornwall & Isles of Scilly and ambassador for the GLL Sport Foundation and helps promote inclusion, accessibility and disability awareness. He is passionate about the power of sport and exercise and particularly enjoys endurance activities which push the limits of his physical and mental capabilities.

You can learn more about David by connecting with him on Instagram

For more information about James Roberts (the host of the podcast), visit jamesowenroberts.com and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube, Tik Tok and Instagram

Are you ready to embark on a transformational journey that goes beyond the physical?

In this week's episode of The Mindset Athlete, we bring you an inspiring conversation with Stu, a true powerhouse of change.

Known for his remarkable ability to help men shed 21lbs or more and adopt an Alpha mindset in just 12 weeks, Stu takes us on a personal voyage through his very own journey of self-development.

Join us as Stu opens up about his incredible transformation from a dad bod to a rad bod, sharing the strategies and insights that propelled him to success.

Beyond the surface, this episode delves deep into the development of an Alpha mindset – a mindset that fosters not only physical change but also an unwavering determination to conquer life's challenges.

Stu's story is more than just a fitness transformation; it's a testament to the power of self-discovery and resilience.

Through candid anecdotes and transformative moments, he reveals the hurdles he faced and the mindset shifts that empowered him to overcome them.

Whether you're striving for a physical transformation, aiming to supercharge your mindset, or simply seeking motivation to elevate your life, this episode is a must-listen.

Tune in as we unravel the layers of Stu's journey, leaving you inspired, motivated, and ready to embark on your own path of self-improvement.

You can learn more about Stu via his website go.thirddimensionfitness.com/ and connect with him on Facebook and Instagram

For more information about James Roberts (the host of the podcast), visit jamesowenroberts.com and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube, Tik Tok and Instagram

Dr. Shaun M. Anderson is an internationally recognized scholar, proud HBCU graduate, and award-winning professor at Loyola Marymount University. As a sought-after expert regarding sport and social issues, he has worked with recognized organizations such as MLB, PBS, ADL, Nike, ESPN, and lectured at several universities. As a scholar, he examines how sport has influenced business, politics, and society. He is also the founder of CSR Global Consulting, LLC, which assists organizations in developing and implementing their social responsibility initiatives. His forthcoming book, The Black Athlete Revolt: The Sport Justice Movement in the Age of #BlackLivesMatter (Rowman and Littlefield, 2023) examines the revitalization of athlete activism since the BLM movement began.

You can learn more about Shaun via his website shaunmarqanderson.com and connect with him on Twitter and Instagram

For more information about James Roberts (the host of the podcast), visit jamesowenroberts.com and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube, Tik Tok and Instagram

Sara is a fitness and nutrition coach and has been working at her craft since 2015. Origionally from Connecticut, and in 2012, I moved to the Greater Boston area, where I fell in love with nutrition and fitness. However, fitness/nutrition didn't always come easy to me. She was an athlete for most of my life, and after graduating college, where she was a collegiate swimmer, she experienced highs and lows with food. Sometimes gaining weight and she wasn't eating well or exercising. Other times, counted calories, did tons of cardio, and starved. Neither ends of the spectrum were healthy, sustainable, or constructive. These fluctuations lasted about two years before Sarah started the fitness journey you see today. Since 2015, has been learning, experimenting, losing body fat, gaining muscle, becoming much healthier, and coaching people to have a better, healthier relationship with themselves and food.

You can learn more about Sara via her website nutritionforlifeproject.com and connect with her on Facebook and Instagram

For more information about James Roberts (the host of the podcast), visit jamesowenroberts.com and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube, Tik Tok and Instagram

10 years ago, Adelaide fully recovered from a debilitating condition that left her bedriddden by re-wiring her brain in 3 days. Today, she is an endurance athlete and champion performance coach for some of the world's biggest companies, leaders, teams and athletes.

You can learn more about Adelaide via her website Adelaidegoodeve.com and connect with her on Instagram

For more information about James Roberts (the host of the podcast), visit jamesowenroberts.com and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube, Tik Tok and Instagram