High Performance Mindset | Learn from World-Class Leaders, Consultants, Athletes & Coaches about Mindset
Do you want to develop the mindset of the World’s Best? Are you ready to unlock your true potential? Join Dr. Cindra Kamphoff each week, a national leader in the field of Sports and Performance Psychology, as she interviews thought leaders, executives, professional athletes, and entrepreneurs to help you get out of your comfort zone and after your goals. With nearly one million downloads and counting, Dr. Kamphoff provides insights into her personal work with the Minnesota Vikings, Fortune 100 companies, and other top executives and athletes to help you accomplish all your goals and dreams. Ready to launch your true potential? Buckle up and let’s go. Subscribe now and hit the play button.
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705: Believe It’s Possible—Then Go Make It Real
09/19/2025
705: Believe It’s Possible—Then Go Make It Real
In this episode of the High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff shares how belief is the catalyst for breaking through limitations, using the inspiring story of Mankato East’s first win in the Jug Game over Mankato West in 19 years. Despite a long losing streak, the team showed up believing in a new outcome—and they made it happen. Dr. Cindra connects this story to everyday challenges we all face—whether in sports, work, or life—emphasizing that our past doesn’t define our future. She introduces the “POP the Pressure” tool to help listeners pause, see opportunity, and focus on the process when the pressure mounts. The takeaway? Change begins the moment you start believing again. Quote of the Week: “The only thing stronger than fear is belief.” — Anonymous Power Phrase of the Week: “I don’t let the past define me—I believe in what’s possible and play like it.” Want a breakthrough? Request your free call at to learn how we can help you or your team build belief and confidence that sticks.
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704: Feedback Without Fear
09/09/2025
704: Feedback Without Fear
This episode explores how to receive feedback without letting it shake your confidence. Feedback is often hard to hear because we take it personally, treating it like a judgment rather than data. A key mindset shift is recognizing that feedback says more about the giver—their values, priorities, and perspective—than it does about you. The feedback that stings most is usually the one that confirms our own hidden doubts. To move forward, Dr. Cindra introduces the Learn – Burn – Return strategy. The big takeaway: feedback is information, not identity. Protect your confidence by reframing criticism and choosing growth over guilt. Power Phrase of the Week: “I choose growth over guilt when I receive feedback.” Quote of the Week: “Feedback is a gift. But you decide what to unwrap, and what to return.” — Unknown REQUEST A FREE MENTAL BREAKTHROUGH CALL WITH DR. CINDRA AND/OR HER TEAM: TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MENTALLY STRONG INSTITUTE:
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703: See It, Say It, Become It
09/02/2025
703: See It, Say It, Become It
What you believe about yourself determines what you’re capable of becoming. In this episode, Dr. Cindra shares how high performers—from athletes to entrepreneurs—use the power of belief as a foundation for confidence and success. Drawing on the inspiring story of Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, Cindra shows how speaking your vision out loud and believing in your potential—even before there’s any proof—can fuel massive results. Blakely had no business background, faced constant rejection, and yet declared daily that she was going to help millions of women feel confident. That belief pulled her forward and shaped her actions. Dr. Cindra offers practical tools to help you apply this mindset by using “I am” identity statements to rewire your thinking and align with your future self. Whether you're building a business, preparing for a big opportunity, or simply growing into your next level, it all starts with belief. This Week’s Power Phrase: “I speak to myself like the person I’m becoming—because I’m already on my way.” This Week’s Quote of the Week: “You are not what you think you are. But what you think—you are.” — Norman Vincent Peale REQUEST A FREE MENTAL BREAKTHROUGH CALL WITH DR. CINDRA AND/OR HER TEAM: TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MENTALLY STRONG INSTITUTE:
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702: Reinventing Yourself with Craig Siegel: From Wall Street to Purpose-Driven Impact
08/30/2025
702: Reinventing Yourself with Craig Siegel: From Wall Street to Purpose-Driven Impact
Craig Siegel is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the founder of Cultivate Lasting Symphony. After leaving a thriving career on Wall Street, he dedicated his life to helping people reinvent themselves from the inside out. His energy, purpose, and belief in human potential have made him a sought-after coach and entrepreneur, guiding others to align with their vision and overcome self-doubt. In this episode, Craig shares the powerful mindset shift that transformed his life and how you can apply the same principles to your own journey. We talk about his leap from finance to purpose-driven work, the role of energy in leadership, and how to protect it as a high performer. He also unpacks practical lessons from his bestselling book The Reinvention Formula—a step-by-step playbook for creating clarity, moving past fear, and building a life that lights you up. In this conversation, you will learn: The mindset shift that sparked Craig’s reinvention How to move through fear and self-doubt with intention and belief Why energy management is critical for leaders and high performers Practical tools from The Reinvention Formula to create clarity and overcome obstacles Craig’s story proves that reinvention isn’t reserved for a few—it’s available to anyone ready to commit to growth, purpose, and possibility. Learn more about craig here: Apply for the certification here:
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701: Why Focusing on the Process Beats Chasing the Outcome
08/26/2025
701: Why Focusing on the Process Beats Chasing the Outcome
Drawing on powerful examples from Olympian Brenda Martinez and legendary coach Nick Saban, Dr. Cindra explains how shifting your attention from results to daily actions can boost performance, reduce anxiety, and help you show up more consistently under pressure. Martinez’s story—recovering from a heartbreaking stumble to qualify for the Olympics just days later—illustrates the power of trusting your routine and staying present. And Saban’s “don’t look at the scoreboard” mindset reminds us that success is built by dominating the little things over time. Dr. Cindra breaks down how to apply this mindset to your own life—whether you're chasing a championship, growing a business, or working on personal goals—by identifying controllable daily actions and committing to them with discipline. This Week’s Power Phrase: “I trust my process, dominate the controllables, and let the results take care of themselves.” This Week’s Quote of the Week: “You win a national championship by focusing on what it takes to get there, and not on getting there.” — Nick Saban REQUEST A FREE MENTAL BREAKTHROUGH CALL WITH DR. CINDRA AND/OR HER TEAM: TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MENTALLY STRONG INSTITUTE:
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700: The Creative’s Mind: Building Mental Toughness with Dr. Jim Afremow, High-Performance Consultant & Author
08/19/2025
700: The Creative’s Mind: Building Mental Toughness with Dr. Jim Afremow, High-Performance Consultant & Author
Dr. Jim Afremow is a high-performance consultant and the author of The Creative’s Mind: How Exceptional Artists Think, Make and Perform, along with several bestselling books on sport psychology and leadership. He has trained athletes, teams, coaches, and professionals across achievement domains to perform under pressure and sustain success. In this special 700th episode, Jim shares how the same mental frameworks used by elite athletes apply to creative professionals. He explains how grit, identity, and deliberate mental training fuel both artistry and performance. In this episode, you will learn: The 5 C’s of Mental Toughness for Creatives—courage, confidence, commitment, composure, and concentration The Two Voices that guide performance: Protection vs. Greatness Why confidence is a decision and how to strengthen it daily Mental tools like the 2-Minute Drill to beat procrastination and the Blow Out the Junk technique to calm nerves Why identity before goals creates consistency and resilience under pressure Jim shows that creativity isn’t about waiting for inspiration. It’s about training your mind like an athlete to step up when it matters most.
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699: Embracing Mistakes: The Key to High Performance
08/18/2025
699: Embracing Mistakes: The Key to High Performance
In this insightful episode of the High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff explores why psychological safety is the foundation of high-performing teams. Drawing on Google’s groundbreaking Project Aristotle study, she explains that the best teams aren’t the ones that avoid mistakes—they’re the ones that embrace them as learning opportunities. Psychological safety means people can take risks, share ideas, and challenge the status quo without fear of judgment or punishment. Cindra outlines practical strategies for leaders to build this culture. This Week’s Power Phrase: "I create a safe space for my team to take risks, make mistakes, and grow. We learn together, and we win together." This Week’s Quote of the Week: "Psychological safety is not just about being nice or lowering performance standards. It’s about creating an environment where failure is an opportunity to learn, not something to fear." — Dr. Amy Edmondson Tune in to discover how normalizing mistakes can unlock creativity, boost performance, and strengthen your team’s commitment to success.
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698: Good Awkward: Turning Cringe into Confidence with Henna Pryor, CSP, Keynote Speaker & TedX Speaker
08/14/2025
698: Good Awkward: Turning Cringe into Confidence with Henna Pryor, CSP, Keynote Speaker & TedX Speaker
Henna Pryor, CSP, is an award-winning keynote speaker, workplace performance expert, and the author of Good Awkward: How to Embrace the Embarrassing and Celebrate the Cringe to Become the Bravest You. She’s been featured in major outlets like Forbes, Fast Company, and NBC, and her work helps leaders and teams reframe awkwardness as a superpower. She blends science, storytelling, and real-world strategies to help us step into the discomfort that fuels growth. In this episode, you will learn: How “good” awkward moments—paired with deliberate discomfort and strategic micro stressors—can fuel growth, connection, and high performance. Henna shares insights from her Social Muscles research, revealing how avoiding awkwardness actually increases it, and why embracing it builds likability, trust, and resilience. Henna offers practical ways to build your “social muscle,” reframe embarrassment, and turn cringe moments into leadership superpowers. You will also learn daily practices to adopt a “do it awkward—but do it anyway” mindset, along with lighthearted stories that show the power of leaning into discomfort. 🔹 🔹 🔹 🔹 Love the show? Rate and review the podcast—and you might hear your name on the next episode!
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697: No Grit, No Pearl
08/13/2025
697: No Grit, No Pearl
In this inspiring episode of the High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff explores how grit is the foundation for achieving your biggest goals and dreams. She shares the powerful metaphor of the pearl—how something rare and valuable begins with irritation. Just like a pearl forms when an oyster transforms a piece of grit over time, our greatest achievements come from leaning into challenges and staying committed through discomfort. You’ll also learn practical ways to strengthen your grit muscle, such as committing to one challenging action every day, surrounding yourself with people who push you, and focusing on deliberate—not just repetitive—practice. This Week’s Power Phrase: “I am gritty. I do the things others won’t to achieve the things others can’t. I put in the hours necessary for success.” Quote of the Week: “Grit is not just having resilience in the face of failure, but also having deep commitments that you remain loyal to over many years.” — Angela Duckworth Tune in to discover how to develop the grit you need to create your own “pearl”—the legacy, dream, or goal you’re deeply committed to achieving.
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696: Truth, Lies, and Leadership: How to Use Body Language to Detect Deception with Traci Brown
08/05/2025
696: Truth, Lies, and Leadership: How to Use Body Language to Detect Deception with Traci Brown
In this fascinating and high-energy episode, I interview Traci Brown—ranked the #3 body language expert in the world and a go-to voice on lie detection, deception, and influence. A former elite cyclist turned deception detection expert, Traci brings a rare combination of athletic discipline and forensic insight to her work. Traci is a frequent television guest featured on CBS, NBC, and Nancy Grace, and is the author of How to Detect Lies, Fraud and Identity Theft. She works with businesses, financial groups, and law enforcement to prevent fraud, protect profits, and make better decisions under pressure. In this episode, Traci shares practical strategies to read people more accurately, ask better questions, and spot deception before it costs you. You’ll learn: Why detecting deception is a leadership skill—and how to sharpen it The body language differences between big and small lies How lie detection can accelerate business results and reduce losses Everyday signs of deception that are easy to miss—and how to catch them How to use body language to gain the truth from customers, coworkers, and clients Traci also discusses her new book and how her experience as a U.S. National Cycling Team member helped shape her ability to “read between the lines.” Whether you're hiring, selling, or simply trying to understand people better, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you lead and decide with clarity. 🔹 🔹 🔹 🔹 🔹 Love the show? Rate and review the podcast—and you might hear your name on the next episode!
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695: Flip the Frame: How High Performers See Challenges Differently
07/31/2025
695: Flip the Frame: How High Performers See Challenges Differently
In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful mindset tools high performers use: reframing. You’ll hear the inspiring story of Spanx founder Sara Blakely and how her father helped her see failure as a sign of courage and growth. We break down how reframing allows you to reinterpret challenges with strength and optimism, turning setbacks into comebacks and adversity into fuel. You’ll learn: What reframing really is and why it’s essential to high performance. Practical questions and tools to help you shift your perspective in real-time. Everyday examples—from tough conversations to public speaking—where reframing can give you an edge. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, educator, or executive, this episode will help you see challenge through a new lens—and move forward with clarity and confidence. Power Phrase: “I see challenge through the lens of growth. I flip the frame to fuel my strength and stride forward.” Quote of the Week: “When you change your story, you change your power.” – Brené Brown
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694: From Stress to Strength: Neuroscience, Executive Presence, and Leading Through Change with John Edwards
07/28/2025
694: From Stress to Strength: Neuroscience, Executive Presence, and Leading Through Change with John Edwards
In this science-backed and practical episode, I interview John Edwards—executive coach, speaker, and founder of The Edwards Groups. With a background in neuroscience and years of experience advising Fortune 500 companies, John shares powerful insights on how to navigate stress, lead with presence, and thrive through change. John’s approach blends neuroscience with leadership strategy to help high performers build resilience, expand their influence, and lead confidently in complex environments. In this conversation, he breaks down why our brains are wired for stress, how to rewire for strength, and what it means to be a standout leader in today’s rapidly evolving workplace. You’ll learn: Why your brain’s default setting is stress—and what you can do to override it The neuroscience behind executive presence and how to grow your influence authentically How to boost cognitive capacity and resilience through better daily habits What a “chaos point” is—and how to lead your team through uncertainty Practical strategies for navigating change, conflict, and ambiguity with clarity and calm John also shares a roadmap for change leadership and how you can put executive presence on “autopilot” by rewiring habits and emotional patterns. This episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to lead with more resilience, clarity, and confidence—especially in high-pressure environments. 🔹 🔹 🔹 🔹 Love the show? —and you might hear your name on the next episode!
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693: Dream Bigger, Stretch Further
07/24/2025
693: Dream Bigger, Stretch Further
In this episode of the High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff challenges you to dream bigger and pursue bold, gritty goals—even if they feel just out of reach. She shares compelling research from Harvard and insights from performance psychology that show how stretch goals—ambitious targets that push you beyond your current limits—can fuel creativity, persistence, and breakthrough performance. The key is believing the goal is possible and tying it to a powerful “why.” Cindra also draws on wisdom from her conversation with Caroline Adams Miller, author of Getting Grit, about the value of pursuing hard goals that demand risk, discomfort, and long-term effort. These are the kinds of goals that spark real growth. You’ll learn: Why stretch goals create clarity, focus, and passion How top performers connect long-term dreams to daily actions What to do when doubt creeps in and tempts you to play small Why writing down your goals can be a game changer This episode is a reminder that dreaming big isn’t just for vision boards—it’s a discipline. And you deserve to pursue goals that challenge and inspire you. Power Phrase This Week: “I pursue bold goals because greatness lives just beyond my comfort zone.” Quote of the Week: “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” — Norman Vincent Peale
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692: Be Unstoppable: Lessons in Mental Toughness, Leadership, and Team Success with Alden Mills
07/21/2025
692: Be Unstoppable: Lessons in Mental Toughness, Leadership, and Team Success with Alden Mills
In this inspiring episode, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with Alden Mills—former Navy SEAL platoon commander, championship rower, best-selling author, inventor, and entrepreneur. Alden’s life is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention. From overcoming childhood asthma to leading Navy SEAL teams and building a $95M business with the Perfect Pushup, Alden shares how the unstoppable mindset shaped every chapter of his extraordinary journey. Alden is the author of Be Unstoppable, Unstoppable Teams, and Unstoppable Mindset, and was named Entrepreneur magazine’s #1 virtual speaker. In this episode, he reveals the mental strategies that helped him turn adversity into advantage, failure into fuel, and vision into impact. You’ll learn: Why being “unstoppable” is a choice—and how to practice that choice daily The story behind the mantra: “No one defines what you can and can’t do” How Navy SEAL leadership skills apply directly to business, family, and life The CARE Loop framework and how to build high-trust, high-performing teams The 8 essential actions from Be Unstoppable, including “Plan in Pencil” and “Understand Your Why” Alden also unpacks how setbacks have fueled his biggest comebacks and what mental toughness means at the highest levels of performance. Whether you’re leading a team, building a business, or chasing a personal goal—this episode will help you unlock your unstoppable potential. 🔹 🔹 🔹 🔹 Love the show? Rate and review the podcast—and you might hear your name on the next episode!
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691: Turning Setbacks into Setups: The Optimism Advantage
07/17/2025
691: Turning Setbacks into Setups: The Optimism Advantage
In this inspiring episode of the High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff explores how optimism can turn adversity into advantage. She shares a powerful story of a collegiate athlete who, after a devastating ACL injury just before nationals, chose to reframe the setback as a new beginning. Her shift in perspective led her to mentorship, sport psychology, and a new purpose: becoming a mental performance coach. Cindra breaks down how optimism isn’t naive positivity—it’s an active choice to find meaning in difficulty. Backed by science, she discusses the many benefits of optimism, including increased resilience, creativity, persistence, and even longer life expectancy. Research from Harvard shows that optimistic leaders and entrepreneurs outperform their peers in both business and recovery from failure. You’ll also learn about the Three OPP Strategy from Beyond Grit, a practical mental tool to help you reframe challenges. This week’s power phrase: “Setbacks don’t define me. I see the opportunity in the obstacle." Quote of the week: “Optimism is a strategy for making a better future. Because unless you believe that the future can be better, you are unlikely to step up and take responsibility for making it so.” — Noam Chomsky Tune in to learn how to train your brain for optimism—and why that mindset is your performance advantage.
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690: Redefining Influence: How to Communicate with Confidence and Credibility with Stacey Hanke
07/15/2025
690: Redefining Influence: How to Communicate with Confidence and Credibility with Stacey Hanke
In this engaging episode, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff talks with Stacey Hanke—nationally recognized communication expert, keynote speaker, and author of Influence Redefined and Influence Elevated. Stacey challenges the common myths around influence and shares how true influence isn’t about charisma or likability—it’s about showing up consistently with presence, clarity, and connection. Stacey is the founder of Stacey Hanke Inc., where she equips leaders and teams with the tools to communicate more effectively in high-stakes environments. Her work with Fortune 500 companies, NFL teams, and top-level executives offers real-world strategies for building trust and leading with credibility, even when feedback is limited or unclear. You’ll learn: The biggest misconception people have about influence—and what it really takes Stacey’s 6-part Influence Elevated model for lasting impact Why self-awareness is the foundation of powerful communication The connection between confidence and your ability to speak up under pressure Daily rituals and mindset shifts to lead with authenticity and consistency Stacey also shares how elevated presence leads to stronger connections and greater influence, plus one tool you can start using today to transform how you come across. If you want to level up your leadership and communication, this episode is a must-listen. 🔹 🔹 🔹 Love the show? Rate and review the podcast—and you might hear your name on the next episode!
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689: Choose the Meaning, Change the Outcome
07/10/2025
689: Choose the Meaning, Change the Outcome
In this episode of the High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff explores one of the most powerful mindset shifts we can make: choosing the meaning we assign to our experiences. She shares a story of coaching a senior executive who was initially devastated after being passed over for a promotion. But by reframing the experience and asking, “How is this happening for me?”, the executive discovered a more aligned, fulfilling path—and ultimately created a new role within her company that better matched her strengths. The meaning she gave the event became her fuel for growth. Cindra explains that successful people condition their minds daily to see opportunity in difficulty. They deliberately choose empowering meanings—not because it’s easy, but because it leads to greater resilience, clarity, and long-term success. You’ll learn: Why your brain is wired to avoid pain and how to override that instinct The difference between interpreting challenges as happening to you vs. for you How to reframe past and current experiences for growth Key questions to ask yourself to reassign empowering meaning Cindra also shares her own story of turning a personal professional setback into a powerful realignment moment—and why choosing the right meaning can change not just your outcomes, but your identity and future. This Week’s Power Phrase: “I see the opportunity in every difficulty. Life is happening for me not to me.” Quote of the Week: “Life is simple. Everything happens for you, not to you. Everything happens at exactly the right moment, neither too soon nor too late.” — Byron Katie
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688: Thriving Under Pressure: Mental Performance Lessons from College Football with Kris Kracht, Director of Mental Performance for Washington State University Football
07/07/2025
688: Thriving Under Pressure: Mental Performance Lessons from College Football with Kris Kracht, Director of Mental Performance for Washington State University Football
Welcome back to the High Performance Mindset Podcast, the show where we explore what it takes to show up fully and perform at your best—mentally and emotionally—every single day. I’m Dr. Cindra Kamphoff, and I’m so grateful you’re here. Today’s guest is someone who lives and breathes mental performance. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Kristofer Kracht, a championship coach, professor, entrepreneur, and highly respected mental performance expert with over 25 years of experience. Kris is known for his vulnerability, energy, and contagious passion for helping others grow. He currently serves as the Director of Mental Performance for Washington State University Football, where he empowers athletes to thrive under pressure and train their minds to match their physical talent. He’s also worked with elite programs at South Dakota State, Creighton, Winona State, and several others across the country. In this episode, Kris shares what he’s teaching athletes most often, how he helps players thrive under pressure, and a simple performance number system that builds self-awareness and accountability. We dive into practical tools like breathing and refocusing techniques, and why hallway conversations matter more than you think. Kris also reflects on his personal journey—from studying applied sport psychology to shaping the culture at Washington State Football. Let’s get into it. Here’s my conversation with Kristofer Kracht.
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687: Lead Your Emotions, Don’t Let Them Lead You
07/02/2025
687: Lead Your Emotions, Don’t Let Them Lead You
In this episode of the High Performance Mindset, we dive into the power of emotional agility—the skill of being present with your emotions without letting them take the wheel. Backed by cutting-edge research, we explore how processing and labeling emotions can reduce distress, enhance performance, and improve your ability to lead and live with purpose. You’ll learn: Why emotional agility is a key to resilience, leadership, and well-being. The three essential steps to becoming emotionally agile: noticing, labeling, and choosing action aligned with your values. How to shift from “I am anxious” to “I’m noticing I feel anxious”—and why that subtle reframe matters. Why emotions are data, not directives—and how that mindset gives you back control. Whether you're an athlete, leader, or high achiever under pressure, this episode will help you respond with intention, not reactivity, and become the kind of person who leads with clarity and confidence. Power Phrase: “My emotions inform me, not define me.” Quote of the Week: “You don’t have to believe everything you feel.” — Dr. Susan David
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686: How High Performers See Challenges Differently
06/23/2025
686: How High Performers See Challenges Differently
In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful mindset tools high performers use: reframing. You’ll hear the inspiring story of Spanx founder Sara Blakely and how her father helped her see failure as a sign of courage and growth. We break down how reframing allows you to reinterpret challenges with strength and optimism—turning setbacks into comebacks and adversity into fuel. You’ll learn: What reframing really is and why it’s essential to high performance. Practical questions and tools to help you shift your perspective in real-time. Everyday examples—from tough conversations to public speaking—where reframing can give you an edge. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, educator, or executive, this episode will help you see challenge through a new lens—and move forward with clarity and confidence. Power Phrase: “I see challenge through the lens of growth. I flip the frame to fuel my strength and stride forward.” Quote of the Week: “When you change your story, you change your power.” – Brené Brown
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685: Coaches Are Performers Too: Building High-Performance Cultures with Dr. Richard Thelwell
06/19/2025
685: Coaches Are Performers Too: Building High-Performance Cultures with Dr. Richard Thelwell
In this powerful episode, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with internationally respected sport psychologist Dr. Richard Thelwell to explore the psychology behind high-performance coaching. Drawing on decades of research and applied practice, Dr. Thelwell shares why coaches must see themselves as performers and how their emotional intelligence, communication, and self-awareness directly shape athlete performance and team culture. Richard is a Professor of Applied Sport Psychology and currently serves as the Executive Dean at the University of Portsmouth. He’s a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society and his groundbreaking research has helped shape how we understand the coach-athlete relationship, emotional intelligence in sport, and how coaches thrive under pressure. You’ll learn: Why the coach-athlete relationship is central to consistent performance The surprising impact of nonverbal cues on athlete engagement and confidence How coaches can manage pressure, burnout, and organizational volatility Why rest is a psychological skill—and how coaches can develop a rest strategy Practical strategies to help coaches stay composed, reflective, and effective under pressure Dr. Thelwell also offers insights from his research on coach stress, organizational change, and the powerful role of emotional regulation. Whether you're on the sideline or in the boardroom, this conversation will help you lead with more purpose, presence, and performance.
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684: Why Hard Goals Create Real Growth
06/09/2025
684: Why Hard Goals Create Real Growth
In this episode of the High Performance Mindset Podcast, Dr. Cindra explore the impact of setting stretch goals - ambitious, meaningful targets that push us out of our comfort zones and closer to our potential. Backed by research from Harvard Business School, they explain how high-effort goals can fuel innovation, focus, and sustained performance when they're supported by belief and purpose. You’ll also learn why writing down your goals matters, how to break the habit of playing small, and how to shift your thinking when self-doubt shows up. Power Phrase of the Week: “I pursue bold goals because greatness lives just beyond my comfort zone.” Quote of the Week: “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” — Norman Vincent Peale
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683: Build Mentally Strong Athletes by Coaching Confidence First with Melissa Hager and Brock Thompson
06/04/2025
683: Build Mentally Strong Athletes by Coaching Confidence First with Melissa Hager and Brock Thompson
Today’s episode features a powerful conversation with two standout leaders in sport and performance—Melissa Hager and Brock Thompson. Melissa is one of the only women in Minnesota coaching boys high school basketball and brings a wealth of insight on leadership, resilience, and building trust with athletes. Brock is the Head Women’s Soccer Coach at South Dakota State University and a seasoned leader with over 25 years in college athletics. Both are certified Mentally Strong Coaches and bring real-world perspective on what it takes to develop confident athletes and teams. Together, we discuss: Why confidence is the most fragile and most essential performance skill How to help athletes recover after a setback or tough feedback The different ways confidence shows up in male and female athletes What mentally strong coaching really looks like—and how to model it Why relationships are foundational to performance and growth We’ll also share a sneak peek into our upcoming free webinar on June 10—Building Confidence for Athletes and Coaches—and the exciting launch of the Mentally Strong Academy for Athletic Coaches, starting June 19. To register for the webinar or learn more about both opportunities, visit mentallystronginstitute.com. If you're listening after June 10, head to to catch the replay.
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682: How to Level Up Your Belief In Yourself
05/31/2025
682: How to Level Up Your Belief In Yourself
In this episode of the High Performance Mindset podcast, Dr. Cindra shares how the way we talk to ourselves can shape our confidence, performance, and leadership. Drawing from Serena Williams’ affirmation practice before winning Wimbledon in 2015, we explore how powerful self-talk can override doubt and pressure—especially when things aren’t going perfectly. You’ll learn how thought patterns are formed early in life to protect us, and how those same patterns can now limit us unless we choose to rewire them through consistent mental conditioning. This episode covers four tools you can use to shift your mindset, respond to challenges with intention, and talk to yourself in a way that builds strength instead of stress. Power Phrase of the Week: “Speak louder than your doubt.” Quote of the Week: “I am strong. I am a champion. I’ve got this.” – Serena Williams
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681: Leadership Starts with a First Impression: Owning Your Presence with Sylvie di Giusto, Keynote Speaker and Personal Branding Expert
05/29/2025
681: Leadership Starts with a First Impression: Owning Your Presence with Sylvie di Giusto, Keynote Speaker and Personal Branding Expert
I’m incredibly excited about today’s guest—Sylvie di Giusto—who is a globally recognized expert in personal branding, leadership presence, and first impressions. Sylvie helps professionals and organizations explore how people make decisions about them—and what they can do to influence those decisions effectively. With a background in corporate training and a multicultural career across Europe and the United States, she brings a unique and powerful perspective to leadership development. She is the author of The Image of Leadership and Fair Advantage, and she’s worked with some of the world’s top organizations, from the U.S. Air Force to Google, McDonald’s, and the NBA. Sylvie is also a CSP—Certified Speaking Professional—and a highly sought-after keynote speaker who combines psychology, strategy, and practical tools to help leaders take ownership of their personal brand. In today’s conversation, we talk about how to craft a powerful presence, why first impressions matter more than we think, and what it means to lead from the outside in. 🔑 Key Takeaways from Sylvie di Giusto Perception Drives Opportunity Sylvie was inspired to focus on perception because it's often the silent deal-maker or breaker. The way people perceive us influences the decisions they make about our credibility, leadership, and potential—often before we speak. First Impressions Are Fast and Lasting First impressions are made in seconds and are difficult to reverse. They impact sales, leadership trust, and client relationships. In high-stakes environments, your visual and behavioral cues can speak louder than your resume. Unconscious Biases Are Always at Play Every human has cognitive shortcuts (biases) that affect how they perceive others. Professionals and leaders can’t eliminate these, but they can become more aware and intentional in how they present themselves to mitigate misperceptions. The Five Cornerstones of Decision-Making Success today requires mastery of five key areas: Visual intelligence – how you look Behavioral intelligence – how you act Verbal intelligence – how you speak Digital intelligence – how you show up online Social intelligence – how you connect with others Perception Can Be Reality While perception isn’t truth, it influences how others treat us. Therefore, managing perceptions is not manipulation—it’s leadership. Balancing Authenticity with Professionalism Professionals often struggle between “being themselves” and meeting organizational expectations. Sylvie suggests “authenticity within context”—knowing your audience and adjusting your expression, not your values. Rebuilding a Damaged Reputation To recover from a misstep, be transparent, consistent, and patient. Rebuilding trust is a process—and how you communicate and behave over time tells your story more than any apology. Managing Difficult Conversations Leaders must be mindful of the perception ripple effect. Sensitive conversations should be clear, kind, and anchored in purpose, recognizing that how something is said often matters as much as what is said. Technology + Human Connection Embracing tech doesn’t mean losing the human touch. High performers must use digital tools to amplify trust, not replace it. Leaders must be intentional about showing up in real and relational ways—even in virtual spaces. 3D Immersive Keynotes Sylvie is known for pioneering the first-ever 3D immersive keynote experience, combining storytelling with cutting-edge visuals. Her goal? To not just inform—but transform how audiences feel, think, and act. Final Message to High Performers Perception is your silent business partner. Take ownership of how you show up in every setting, every platform, and every interaction. You don’t have to be perfect—but you do have to be intentional.
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680: How to Live More and Worry Less
05/23/2025
680: How to Live More and Worry Less
In this episode of High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra dives into the science of worry—and how to take back control of your mind and energy. Drawing on research from Dr. Robert Leahy, she shares that 85% of what we worry about never actually happens. Even more powerful: when our fears do come true, we tend to handle them better than expected. Cindra unpacks why our brains are wired to worry—usually about the people and priorities we care most about—and how unchecked worry can steal our joy, drain our energy, and keep us stuck in the future. She then shares three practical strategies to reduce worry: Notice and label your thoughts instead of reacting to them. Schedule a “worry window” to contain anxious thinking. Let go of perfectionism and the need to plan for every possible outcome. The episode closes with a calming power phrase to carry with you: “I quiet my mind and return to the present.”
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679: Dancing through the Discomfort, Change, and the Messy Middle with Anne Bonney, Keynote Speaker and Change Expert
05/20/2025
679: Dancing through the Discomfort, Change, and the Messy Middle with Anne Bonney, Keynote Speaker and Change Expert
I’m thrilled to bring you a high-energy, insight-packed conversation with the dynamic and fearless Anne Bonney. After moving 27 times, attending 13 different schools, living on four continents, and navigating six distinct careers, Anne has turned change into her comfort zone. She’s a keynote speaker, leadership trainer, and emotional intelligence expert who helps individuals and organizations embrace discomfort, lead courageously, and ignite positive momentum in their teams. In this episode, Anne shares her personal journey of mastering change, along with actionable strategies to lead through transition, elevate emotional intelligence, and conquer tough conversations. How to turn discomfort into a leadership advantage The three steps every leader needs to navigate change What emotionally intelligent leadership looks like during tough transitions How to handle difficult conversations without avoiding or escalating them Ways to build a fired-up team culture that performs under pressure Anne’s energy is contagious, her insights are practical, and her message is clear—growth comes when we get uncomfortable on purpose.
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678: Break Free from Overthinking
05/06/2025
678: Break Free from Overthinking
This week when you notice yourself overthinking or believing a thought that doesn’t serve you, use The Truth Meter. Your mind tends to lie to you to keep you safe and small. Instead, take control of your mind and choose a different thought that would serve you right now. Your mind does not control you, you can control your mind! Quote of the Week: "You don’t have to believe every thought you think." — Byron Katie Power Phrase of the Week: “I choose my thoughts. I create my reality."
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677: Learn How to Build Deliberate Creative Teams with Dr. Amy Climer, Author and Certified Speaking Professional
05/02/2025
677: Learn How to Build Deliberate Creative Teams with Dr. Amy Climer, Author and Certified Speaking Professional
Dr. Amy Climer teaches teams and organizations how to increase their creativity so they can maximize innovation. She works with forward-thinking organizations such as the Mayo Clinic, Stanford University, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Amy is the author of the best-selling book Deliberate Creative Teams: How to Lead for Innovative Results. She is also host of The Deliberate Creative Podcast, where she shares practical advice and strategies to help leaders build innovative teams. Amy has a Ph.D. in Leadership and Change and is a Certified Speaking Professional. In this episode, Amy shares her powerful “Deliberate Creative Spectrum,” and she unpacks her three-part model explains how psychological safety fuels innovation. Cindra and Amy discuss: Why creativity is essential for organizational relevance and survival The Deliberate Creative Spectrum: from destructive to scalable teams The three essential elements of creative teams Brainstorming guidelines for creativity: suspend judgment, combine ideas, aim for wild ideas, prioritize quantity Tips for fostering psychological safety and handling conflict in teams The leadership insight: to do something new, leaders must intentionally let something go
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676: Believe It Before You See It
04/24/2025
676: Believe It Before You See It
In this episode of the High Performance Mindset podcast, Dr. Cindra explores the power of belief and how it shapes our future. Using Simone Biles’ inspiring story as a launch point, we discuss how your vision for your life begins with what you choose to believe about yourself. When you get clear on your vision, you can align your daily actions and mindset to match that future. This episode encourages you to replace self-doubt with empowering beliefs and reminds you that your potential is limitless when you believe it before you see it. Power Phrase of the Week: “I am becoming the person my dreams require.” Quote of the Week: “Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you believe.” – Oprah Winfrey
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