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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715: Do More, More Naturally: David Kolbe on the Power of Instinctive Strengths
11/17/2025
715: Do More, More Naturally: David Kolbe on the Power of Instinctive Strengths
Today on the High Performance Mindset, I’m joined by someone who has spent his entire life helping people work with their natural strengths instead of fighting against them. David Kolbe, CEO of Kolbe Corp, has literally grown up inside the Kolbe Concept — a system that helps leaders, teams, and organizations unlock instinctive strengths and achieve sustainable productivity. David is an author, strategist, and the visionary behind many of Kolbe Corp’s most transformative tools, including the original algorithm for the Kolbe A Index. Over the years, he has helped thousands of professionals redesign the way they hire, collaborate, and lead by tapping into the way people naturally take action. His background is rare: part attorney, part economist, part innovation architect. You’re about to learn why working with your natural instincts can change everything — your productivity, your energy, and your results. I can’t wait for you to hear this conversation. Alright…let’s jump into my interview with David Kolbe. You are going to love this one! HIGH PERFORMANCE MINDSET SHOWNOTES FOR THIS EPISODE 🔹 Learn more about David Kolbe and the Kolbe A Index: 🔹 Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with Dr. Cindra and/or her team: 🔹 Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: Love the show? Rate and review the podcast—and you might hear your name on the next episode!
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714: Stop the Overwhelm
11/13/2025
714: Stop the Overwhelm
If you’ve ever ended a day exhausted but unclear on what you actually accomplished, this episode is for you. Overwhelm and busyness have become the new norm. Many of us confuse being busy with being productive—which leaves us drained, and doubting ourselves. In today’s episode, Cindra and Lisa explore the mental game of prioritization and how high performers stay focused on what truly matters. You’ll learn why prioritization is so hard, how clarity and completion fuel confidence, and what mindset shift is necessary to create real work–life harmony. We also share two practical tools you can start today: ⭐ The One Thing Question Ask yourself: “What is the one thing that, if I did it today, would make the biggest impact?” This question cuts through noise, strengthens self-trust, and builds confidence. 🚫 The Not-To-Do List High performers don’t just plan what to do—they intentionally choose what to stop doing. You’ll learn 3 things to remove that instantly protect your time and focus. We close with four powerful coaching questions to help you lead your day with clarity and intention. High performers don’t do more — they do what matters most. ✨ Key Takeaways Busyness isn’t a badge of honor—clarity is. Completion builds confidence; overwhelm drains it. Protecting your time is a leadership skill. Rest isn’t a reward — it fuels performance. Power Phrase of the Week: “Today, I do the work that truly moves me forward” Quote of the Week: “Either you run the day, or the day runs you.” — Jim Rohn To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit:
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713: The Freedom to Perform with Dr. Karen MacNeill, Mental Performance Coach and Keynote Speaker
11/10/2025
713: The Freedom to Perform with Dr. Karen MacNeill, Mental Performance Coach and Keynote Speaker
In today’s episode, Dr. Cindra is joined by Dr. Karen MacNeill — former Team Canada athlete and world-renowned mental performance consultant who has supported Olympians, executives, and high-pressure teams across multiple Olympic Games. Karen shares what competing taught her that no textbook ever could, and takes us inside the “pressure ecosystem” of the Olympic Games — revealing what athletes, coaches, and staff need most when the lights are brightest. She and Cindra discuss practical, in-the-moment resets to stay grounded under pressure, the most common thinking traps before big moments, and the habits that transfer from sport to business… plus the ones that don’t. You’ll walk away with simple and powerful strategies to settle your mind, disrupt unhelpful thinking, and perform with intention when it counts — whether you’re on the field, in the arena, or in the boardroom. If you want more confidence, resilience, and clarity under pressure — this episode is a must-listen. HIGH PERFORMANCE MINDSET SHOWNOTES FOR THIS EPISODE 🔹Learn more about Karen MacNeill and Her Work 🔹To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: 🔹To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: Love the show? Rate and review the podcast—and you might hear your name on the next episode!
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712: Finding A Purpose That Powers You
11/04/2025
712: Finding A Purpose That Powers You
In this episode, Dr. Cindra and Lisa explore one of the greatest drivers of motivation, resilience, and fulfillment: your WHY. Every one of us knows what we do in work and life…but very few of us stay deeply connected to the purpose behind it. When we lose sight of our why, stress rises and joy fades. When we own our why, we push through challenges, show up energized, and feel aligned with what truly matters. What You’ll Learn • Why purpose fuels confidence, performance, and grit • The difference between WHAT you do and WHY you do it • Why chasing only results can leave high achievers feeling empty • How elite performers flip the script using the Why ➜ How ➜ What approach • A simple exercise to uncover the deeper meaning behind your goals • How to communicate and live your why daily The “So That…” Exercise Cindra guides you through a powerful reflection tool: 1️⃣ Write down what you do 2️⃣ Add “so that…” six times to dig deeper into your true purpose This exercise reveals what really drives you…and reminds you who you’re becoming in the process. Key Insight Purpose doesn’t just inspire you on the good days. Purpose gives you the fire to keep going on the hard days. Power Phrase of the Week: “I own my why. My purpose fuels me every single day.” To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit:
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711: Flip the Script on Negativity
10/28/2025
711: Flip the Script on Negativity
Opening Quote: “Don’t let the noise of others’ negativity drown out your inner voice.” — Steve Jobs Overview: In this episode, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff and Lisa explore how to rise above negativity—both from within and from others. Whether it’s the self-criticism that follows a mistake or the draining energy of negative people, negativity can quietly chip away at our confidence and performance. Cindra explains the science behind our natural negativity bias and shares practical strategies to help you retrain your mind to focus on what fuels you, not what frustrates you. What You’ll Learn: 🔍The Science Behind Negativity — Why our brains are wired to focus on the negative and how understanding this bias helps you take back control of your mindset. 🧠 The Confidence Drain — How unchecked negativity slowly erodes confidence and creates subtle “leaks” in your energy, focus, and belief in yourself. 🛡️ Two Practical Tools to Reframe Negativity: • Guard Your Mind: You may not be able to control your first thought, but you always have the power to choose the second. • The 12-Second Rule: Learn to pause and fully savor positive moments for at least twelve seconds to help your brain store them as lasting confidence. 🌤️ Managing Negative Energy — Strategies for staying grounded and positive when surrounded by criticism or negativity from others. ⚡ Spotting and Resetting — How to recognize when negativity is taking over and use simple techniques to reset your focus and mindset quickly. Key Insights: Negativity isn’t the enemy—it’s a signal. Awareness is your superpower. You can train your brain to see the good and build confidence one thought at a time. Power Phrase of the Week “I choose to rise above the noise and live my day with positivity and purpose.” To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit:
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710: The Power of Grit: Why Perseverance Beats Talent
10/22/2025
710: The Power of Grit: Why Perseverance Beats Talent
In this episode, we dive into the power of grit—the ability to keep showing up, stay committed, and persevere even when things get tough. Grit is more than talent or luck; it’s the number one predictor of long-term success in life, work, and sport. You’ll hear the inspiring story of J.K. Rowling, who overcame rejection and struggle before building one of the most successful book series in history. We’ll explore why grit matters, how it shows up in athletics and everyday life, and most importantly, how you can strengthen your own grit to achieve your long-term vision. Grit is the difference between giving up and breaking through. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why grit matters more than instant success or raw talent How athletes and high performers use grit to overcome setbacks The four things to remember about grit: clarity, purpose, positive emotions, and self-compassion Practical strategies to build grit in your own life Quote of the Week: “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” — Winston Churchill Power Phrase of the Week: “I am gritty. I persevere with passion, purpose, and persistence.” To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit:
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709: Leading Across Cultures: Building a Global Mindset with Victoria Rennoldson
10/17/2025
709: Leading Across Cultures: Building a Global Mindset with Victoria Rennoldson
In this episode of the High Performance Mindset podcast, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with Victoria Rennoldson, an award-winning coach, speaker, and facilitator specializing in global leadership, communication, and cultural intelligence. As the CEO and Founder of Culture Cuppa and host of a top-ranked podcast with over 145 episodes, Victoria shares practical wisdom on how leaders can communicate confidently and collaborate effectively across cultures. Cindra and Victoria explore what it truly means to be a global leader in today’s interconnected world—debunking common myths about cross-cultural communication and discussing how to build cultural agility. Victoria also opens up about the mindset shifts that have shaped her journey as an entrepreneur and offers powerful takeaways for professionals who want to lead and perform with impact on the global stage. You’ll learn strategies for communicating under pressure, habits that help leaders grow globally, and the critical role self-awareness plays in leadership success. Plus, Victoria gives us a sneak peek at her upcoming book, launching in November 2025, and shares the life lesson that has stayed with her from working across cultures. Connect with Victoria Rennoldson Website: Podcast: Book: LinkedIn: To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit:
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708: Rewriting the Voice Inside Your Head
10/13/2025
708: Rewriting the Voice Inside Your Head
In this episode, Dr. Cindra dive into one of the biggest barriers to confidence and high performance: the inner critic. You know that harsh voice that nitpicks, second-guesses, and drains your energy? Learn how to recognize it, challenge it, and replace it with empowering self-talk that fuels your purpose and potential. Dr. Cindra shares a real coaching story of an NFL kicker who learned to notice, name, and swap his inner critic — transforming his mindset and performance. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to calm your body, reframe your thoughts, and strengthen your belief system. Key Takeaways: Everyone has an inner critic — it’s human, not a flaw. The three steps to manage it: Notice it, Name it, Normalize it. Use The Truth Meter to test your thoughts: “Is this true? Is it serving me? What’s a more empowering thought?” Small, consistent mental reps create lasting confidence. Remember: your inner critic is loud, not accurate. Power Phrase of the Week: “My self-talk builds me, not breaks me.” Quote to Reflect On: “You are today where your thoughts have brought you; you will be tomorrow where your thoughts take you.” — James Allen To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit:
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707: Why Winning Teams Think Differently
09/29/2025
707: Why Winning Teams Think Differently
What separates good teams from great ones? It’s not just talent or IQ—it’s the culture they create together. In this episode of The High Performance Mindset Podcast, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff shares the mental strategies and research that reveal why the best teams think differently. You’ll discover why positivity and psychological safety are essential for high performance and how you can lead yourself and others with a stronger, more confident mindset. Dr. Cindra unpacks Google’s Project Aristotle and Barbara Fredrickson’s research on the Positivity Ratio, showing that positivity isn’t just a feel-good idea—it’s a practice that fuels resilience, grit, and innovation. High-performing teams and individuals intentionally build trust, recognize effort, and focus more on what’s going right than what’s going wrong. That’s what it means to be mentally strong. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: In this episode, you’ll learn why your mindset and words directly shape your team’s performance and how the science of positivity fuels resilience, grit, and innovation. Cindra will walk you through strategies to master your thoughts so you can create the conditions for confidence, along with a practical tool—the “five-to-one rule”—to transform your culture and relationships. You’ll also leave with a Power Phrase to help you own the moment and lead with positivity. This Week’s Power Phrase: "I build my confidence and my team’s success by choosing positivity." This Week's Quote: "people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care" - Theodore Roosevelt 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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706: Inner Excellence: How to Master Your Ego and Expectations with Bestselling Author, Jim Murphy
09/24/2025
706: Inner Excellence: How to Master Your Ego and Expectations with Bestselling Author, Jim Murphy
Welcome to The High Performance Mindset Podcast, where we help you master your mindset to gain the high performance edge. My name is Dr. Cindra Kamphoff, and today I am thrilled to share my conversation with Jim Murphy—author of Inner Excellence. You might have heard about Jim’s book on January 12 when AJ Brown of the Philadelphia Eagles was reading his book on the slide lines of a NFL Game. To be honest, I thought to myself, I have read so many performance psychology books, how will this one be different? But after a recommendation from a colleague, I read the book this summer and loved it. Jim provides so much wisdom and tools in the book! It is amazing. Jim has spent decades studying what allows athletes and leaders to thrive under pressure. In this episode, he opens up about his five years of research with Olympic coaches and sport psychologists, and the surprising discoveries that shaped his Inner Excellence model. We talk about his viral moment when AJ Brown was spotted reading his book on the sidelines, and what it was like to see his work inspire so many people. You’ll hear Jim explain his three “Us” framework—being unembarrassable, unoffendable, and unirritable—and how these qualities help you live and perform with freedom. We also discuss the dangers of ego and self-centeredness, the trap of expectations, and how to stay focused on the process rather than outcomes. This is a conversation packed with wisdom you’ll want to revisit again and again. Before we jump in, at the Mentally Strong Institute, we help athletes and leaders achieve their goals quicker, uplevel their confidence, and increase their influence. To learn more about our coaching, I invite you to sign for a free coaching call with me or one of my team members at the Mentally Strong Institute at freementalbreakthoughcall.com. We will help you create a breakthrough –a moment of more clarity and understanding. That’s to sign up for a free mental breakthrough call. Alright…let’s jump into my interview with Jim Murphy. You are going to love this one! 🔹 🔹 🔹 🔹 Love the show? Rate and review the podcast—and you might hear your name on the next episode!
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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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