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In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with Maximilian (Max) Pollack—a Cognitive Performance Specialist supporting U.S. Special Operations—to explore what it truly takes to think clearly, stay composed, and execute under extreme pressure. Drawing from his work with elite military operators, Max shares a powerful perspective: high performance isn't just about toughness—it's about training your mind and body to work together when it matters most. His expertise sits at the intersection of psychology, physiology, and performance, helping individuals regulate stress, sharpen attention, and make better decisions in high-stakes environments. Throughout the conversation, Max introduces the concept of being "introspective about your perspective," and explains how elite performers build awareness, control their internal state, and lead their thinking—especially when everything around them feels chaotic. He breaks down what separates the mentally elite from others, highlighting the importance of emotional regulation, intentional self-talk, and the ability to downshift in moments of intensity. You'll also hear practical tools you can apply immediately—including breathing techniques for rapid regulation, the role of biofeedback in building awareness, and how to "be the commander of your brain" through intentional self-talk. Max emphasizes that lessons are everywhere—if you're willing to reflect, learn, and apply them. This episode is a masterclass in cognitive performance—showing you how to build clarity, confidence, and control so you can perform at your best, especially when the pressure is highest. You'll Learn: • What separates mentally elite performers in high-stakes environments • How to regulate stress and stay composed under pressure • The power of "introspective about your perspective" • A simple breathing tool to downshift and regain control • How imagery and biofeedback can enhance performance • Why self-talk is critical—and how to "command your brain" • One key strategy to perform more consistently when it matters most Episode Resources & Links Watch the Mental Performance Summit: https://mentalperformancesummit.org/ Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ Download the National Confidence Research Study: https://confidencestudy.com/ Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Follow Max on LinkedIn: Maximilian Pollack, CMPC, BCB | LinkedIn

What if the fastest way to change how you feel… isn't changing your situation, but changing your focus?   In this episode, Dr. Kamphoff shares how one simple shift in attention can instantly move you from frustration to clarity and confidence. When you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or "off," it's often not your circumstances, it's where your mind is pointing.   Learn how to take back control of your mental spotlight and direct it toward what fuels you.   🔑 In this episode: Why your focus determines your feelings How to break free from negative spirals quickly The power of asking better questions to shift your mindset A simple reset you can use anytime to feel more in control   💬 Power Phrase: "I protect my focus. I choose to ask myself powerful questions to change how I feel."   To download our full study report, visit: confidencestudy.com To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: http://www.freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: https://cindrakamphoff.com/ To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit: Cindra Kamphoff, PhD (@cindrakamphoff) • Instagram photos and videos

In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with mental performance coach, keynote speaker, and founder of Lauren Johnson & Co, Lauren Johnson, to explore what it really means to become elite by choice. Lauren shares the pivotal story that shaped her career. After a job opportunity fell through, she found herself working at Starbucks, questioning her direction and waiting for something to change. A blunt interaction with a customer became the turning point. It forced her to recognize that she was waiting for opportunities instead of creating them. From that moment, everything shifted. Lauren began taking ownership of her path, building her own consulting work from the ground up, which eventually led to working with the New York Yankees and some of the highest-performing athletes in the world. At the center of this conversation is a simple but powerful idea. People don't become average because of their ability. They become average because of their actions. Lauren explains how daily decisions shape long-term performance, especially in moments of adversity. She breaks down why high performers don't wait for perfect conditions, how they respond when things don't go as planned, and what it looks like to take full responsibility for your growth. This episode is a direct reminder that elite performance isn't random or reserved for a few. It's built through consistent, intentional decisions over time. You'll Learn: • What "elite by choice" really means and how to apply it daily • Why average results come from average actions, not lack of talent • The moment that can shift you from waiting to taking control • How to respond to adversity instead of backing away from it • Why creating your own opportunities is critical for growth • How small, consistent decisions compound into long-term success • The mindset shift that separates high performers from everyone else Lauren is also a featured speaker at the upcoming Mental Performance Summit, where she'll expand on these ideas and share practical strategies to help you take ownership of your performance and raise your standards. 👉 Learn more and register here: www.mentalperformancesummit.org     Episode Resources & Links Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ Register for the Mental Performance Summit: www.mentalperformancesummit.org Learn more about Lauren here: www.laurenjohnsonandco.com Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with Dr. Cindra or her team: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Download our Confidence Research Study: https://confidencestudy.com/

In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with Zach Brandon—performance and leadership coach, former Head of Mental Performance and Coach Development for the Arizona Diamondbacks, and founder of MVP Mindset Consulting—to explore what it really takes to thrive at a high level without sacrificing wellbeing. Drawing from his experience working with elite athletes, coaches, and leaders, Zach shares a powerful perspective: high performance isn't just about winning more—it's also about living better. He challenges the idea that success and wellbeing are mutually exclusive and instead offers a framework for pursuing both with intention. Throughout the conversation, Zach breaks down what separates great coaches and leaders from the rest—especially when it comes to building belief, confidence, and trust within teams. He explains how the best performers respond under pressure, why identity plays a critical role in performance, and what it truly means to "lead yourself first." You'll also hear practical tools from his "Coach's Playbook," including strategies to reset after mistakes, quiet the inner critic, and help individuals move through plateaus. Zach emphasizes that growth starts with awareness—and that small, intentional shifts in mindset can create powerful momentum. This episode is a reminder that sustainable success is built from the inside out. When you strengthen how you think, lead, and respond, you don't just perform better—you live better, too. You'll Learn: • What drives high performance at the elite level • How great coaches build belief and confidence in others • What separates those who rise under pressure from those who shrink • A practical tool to improve how you show up immediately • How to reset after mistakes and manage your inner critic • Why leading yourself first is essential for leading others • How identity shapes performance—and how to intentionally build it Zach is also a featured speaker at the upcoming Mental Performance Summit, where he'll share more in his session: "The Coach's Playbook: Strategies for Winning More and Living Well." 👉 Learn more and register here: www.mentalperformancesummit.org     Episode Resources & Links Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ Register for the Mental Performance Summit: www.mentalperformancesummit.org Follow Zach Brandon on X: (4) Zach Brandon (@MVP_Mindset) / X Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with Dr. Cindra or her team: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Download our Confidence Research Study: https://confidencestudy.com/

In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with entrepreneur, speaker, and author Jess Ekstrom to explore what it really takes to build confidence, find intrinsic motivation, and share your voice without losing yourself in the process. Jess is the founder of Mic Drop Workshop, where she has helped thousands of women become more confident speakers and step into their voice. Her upcoming book, Making It Without Losing It, focuses on how to stay grounded, purpose-driven, and intrinsically motivated in high-pressure, performance-based environments. At the heart of this conversation is a powerful shift: moving from being a "spotlight speaker"—focused on how you're being judged—to a "lighthouse speaker"—focused on how you can help others.  Jess shares how this shift not only reduces anxiety but also improves performance, authenticity, and impact. The conversation also dives into intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation, and why chasing outcomes, recognition, or approval can lead to burnout and disconnection. Instead, Jess encourages us to reconnect with purpose, focus on what we can control, and measure success by impact—not applause. This episode is a powerful reminder that confidence and fulfillment aren't built by performing for others—but by staying connected to what truly matters and using your voice to serve.     You'll Learn: • The difference between a spotlight speaker and a lighthouse speaker—and how it changes your confidence • How to shift from outcome-driven thinking to purpose-driven performance • A simple "purpose test" to evaluate your motivation • Why intrinsic motivation leads to more creativity, fulfillment, and impact • How to stay confident and authentic—even in high-pressure environments     Episode Resources & Links Learn more about Jess Ekstrom: https://jessekstrom.com/ Register for the Mental Performance Summit April 17th:  https://mentalperformancesummit.org/ Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Download the Confidence Research Study: https://confidencestudy.com/

Have you ever felt ready… until doubt showed up?   In this episode, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff shares how limiting beliefs, thoughts we repeat until they feel true, can quietly derail performance. Drawing from her own running career, she reveals how nothing changed physically in a race, only her thinking did.   Listen to this episode and learn how to question those thoughts, refocus on what's true, and respond with confidence when it matters most.   Key Takeaway: You don't need to eliminate doubt, you just need to stop believing everything you think.   Power Phrase: My doubts are not facts. I trust the work I've put in.   🎯 Take Action 📅 April 17 | Virtual 👉 mentalperformancesummit.org

"You don't rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your training."   If you want to perform better under pressure, you have to train your mind.   In this episode, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff shares how the Mental Performance Summit can help you build confidence, stay composed, and perform consistently, using the same tools as elite athletes and leaders.  If there is one thing you attend this spring, let it be this!    💡 What You'll Gain Confidence under pressure Clear, focused thinking Tools you can use immediately 🎤 Featuring Josh Lifrak Lauren Johnson Kris Goodman Zach Brandon  Dr. Kerry Guest    🎯 Take Action 📅 April 17 | Virtual 👉 mentalperformancesummit.org 💬  Today's Power Phrase: "I train my mind so I can perform at my best."

In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with University of New Mexico Head Football Coach Jason Eck to explore what it truly takes to build belief inside a team. In his first season leading the Lobos, Coach Eck engineered one of the most remarkable turnarounds in college football—leading the program to nine wins, a bowl game appearance, and Mountain West Coach of the Year honors after being projected near the bottom of the conference. But behind the wins is something deeper. Coach Eck shares how leadership, culture, and mindset shape the foundation of a high-performing team. Drawing from more than two decades of coaching experience across Division II, FCS, and FBS football—including championship runs at Minnesota State and South Dakota State—he explains how leaders create environments where confidence grows and teams outperform expectations. Throughout the conversation, Eck discusses how belief is rebuilt in struggling programs, how players develop mental toughness for high-pressure moments, and why culture must become player-driven rather than coach-driven for lasting success. This episode is a powerful reminder that confidence and culture aren't built overnight. They are created through daily standards, aligned leadership, and a mindset that prepares teams to perform when the stakes are highest. You'll Learn: • How Coach Eck helped players build real confidence after a turnaround season • What leaders can do to help teams handle pressure and rising expectations • Mental habits athletes use to stay composed in high-stakes moments • How leaders rebuild belief in teams that haven't experienced success • Leadership lessons from rebuilding multiple football programs     Episode Resources & Links Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ Follow University of New Mexico Football: (1) New Mexico Football (@UNMLoboFB) / X Follow Jason Eck on X: (1) Jason Eck (@Coach_Eck) / X Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with Dr. Cindra or her team: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Download our Confidence Research Study: https://confidencestudy.com/

In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with Belinda Jensen—Chief Meteorologist at KARE 11, science communicator, children's book author, and beloved "Bel the Weather Girl"—to explore what it takes to perform under pressure when the stakes are high and the forecast is uncertain. With more than three decades on live television, Belinda shares how she manages stress and decision-making during severe weather events, when clarity, calm, and trust matter most. She explains how high performers stay grounded when conditions change rapidly—and why preparation, presence, and purpose are essential to sustaining excellence over time. Throughout the conversation, Belinda reflects on her unconventional path into broadcasting, the resilience required to stay energized across a long career, and the mindset habits that help her balance demanding deadlines with family, writing, speaking, and community impact. She also shares why making complex science simple is a leadership skill—and how clear communication builds confidence, reduces fear, and helps people take action. Belinda also opens up about her passion for educating kids through her Bel the Weather Girl books, especially helping children manage anxiety around storms and inspiring young girls to see themselves in STEM careers. This episode is a powerful reminder that high performance isn't about controlling conditions—it's about learning how to stay steady, confident, and purposeful no matter what the forecast brings.     You'll Learn: How to stay calm and focused during high-pressure moments Mindset strategies for making decisions when outcomes are uncertain Why clear communication builds trust and confidence Lessons in resilience from a 30+ year career in broadcast media How preparation and presence fuel consistent performance Ways to reduce fear and anxiety through education and understanding Advice for performing at your best—on air, at work, and in everyday life     Episode Resources & Links Learn more about Belinda Jensen: https://beltheweathergirl.com/ Download our 2025 National Confidence Crisis Study: https://confidencestudy.com/ Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with Dr. Cindra or her team: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/

Quote of the Week: "To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." — Ralph Waldo Emerson   Why do we care so much about what other people think, and how is it impacting our confidence?   In this episode, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff and Lisa talk about FOPO — the Fear of Other People's Opinions, a term coined by performance psychologist Michael Gervais. When we let outside voices guide our decisions, our confidence shrinks and we start playing small.   You'll hear why comparison is one of the fastest confidence killers, how FOPO quietly shows up in everyday moments, and what high performers do differently to stay grounded in their purpose instead of approval.   If you've ever hesitated to speak up, share an idea, or pursue an opportunity because of what others might think—this episode is for you.   Power Phrase of the Week: "I value feedback — but I don't outsource my identity.   To download our full study report, visit: confidencestudy.com To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: http://www.freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: https://cindrakamphoff.com/ To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit: Cindra Kamphoff, PhD (@cindrakamphoff) • Instagram photos and videos

In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with Glen Guyton—futurist, leadership strategist, and author of The Art of Harmonious Trust—to explore why trust is not a soft leadership concept, but a measurable performance strategy. Glen's work sits at the intersection of trust, employee retention, and future-focused talent development. Drawing from his experience across military, nonprofit, and corporate systems, Glen explains why competitive pay, perks, and policies often fail to retain high performers—and what leaders must understand about trust if they want people to stay, grow, and contribute at their highest level. Throughout the conversation, Glen introduces the concept of harmonious trust and breaks down how it differs from traditional conversations about culture. He shares the patterns he's observed in organizations that retain the right people—not just retain people—and the critical role direct supervisors play in engagement and quiet quitting. He also connects retention to skills development, workforce disruption, and future-ready talent strategy. This episode is a powerful reminder that organizations don't lose people because of change—they lose people when trust erodes during change. Leaders who build trust intentionally don't just improve morale—they create sustainable high performance.     You'll Learn: Why trust is a performance strategy—not just a leadership value The real reason high performers leave even when compensation is competitive What "harmonious trust" means and how to build it The connection between skills gaps and employee retention How supervisors directly influence engagement and quiet quitting Early warning signs that commitment is slipping One practical habit leaders can implement immediately to strengthen trust     Episode Resources & Links Learn more about Glen Guyton: https://www.glenguyton.com/ Order The Art of Harmonious Trust: https://www.glenguyton.com/ Download our 2025 Confidence Crisis Study: https://confidencestudy.com/ Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with Dr. Cindra or her team: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/  

In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with Ted Ma—leadership strategist, researcher, author, and keynote speaker—to explore what truly separates average leaders from exceptional ones. Earlier in his career, Ted built and led a sales organization of more than 6,000 people across North America. But through that experience, he began asking a deeper question: What actually makes leadership sustainable, impactful, and human? That curiosity led him to study mentorship, trust, confidence, and culture—and to develop the concept of Everyday Mentorship. Throughout the conversation, Ted explains why leadership isn't about titles or authority—it's about the small, daily behaviors that build trust, confidence, and performance over time. He breaks down the "DNA" of high-performing teams, why culture is a true competitive advantage, and the common misconceptions leaders have when trying to shift culture. Ted also shares research-backed insights on what drives engagement and retention, the mental barriers that limit leadership confidence, and practical ways leaders can begin building stronger cultures immediately. This episode is a powerful reminder that high performance doesn't happen by accident—it's built intentionally, one conversation and one courageous leadership decision at a time.     You'll Learn: What Everyday Mentorship really means—and why it matters now more than ever The DNA of high-performing sales teams Why culture is a competitive advantage (not just a buzzword) The biggest misconception leaders have about changing culture Research insights on trust, confidence, and engagement The mental barriers that limit leadership growth One practical framework leaders can implement immediately     Episode Resources & Links Learn more about Ted Ma: https://realtedma.com/ Download our 2025 National Confidence Study: https://confidencestudy.com/ Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with Dr. Cindra or her team: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/  

"You have to fight through some bad days to earn the best days of your life." — Lindsey Vonn   After a devastating Olympic crash and yet another surgery, Lindsey Vonn didn't ask, "Why me?" She reminded the world this isn't the end of her story. That response is what separates elite performers.   In this episode, we explore why adversity isn't proof you're failing — it's proof you're competing. Our grit research with professional athletes shows that every top performer faces setbacks. What sets them apart is how they respond.   We discuss: Why high performers believe adversity is happening for them, not to them How doubt and other people's opinions (OPP) erode confidence The powerful question that fuels growth: "What is this teaching me?" Adversity isn't a detour. It's the path.   Power Phrase: I embrace adversity. It's shaping me into who I'm meant to become.    To download our full study report, visit: confidencestudy.com To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: http://www.freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: https://cindrakamphoff.com/ To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit: Cindra Kamphoff, PhD (@cindrakamphoff) • Instagram photos and videos

In this episode of The High Performance Mindset, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff sits down with Jill Schulman—Bravery Expert, United States Marine Corps veteran, keynote speaker, and author of The Bravery Effect—to explore why bravery isn't a personality trait, but a skill anyone can build. Jill shares the pivotal experiences that led her to study the science of fear and courage, and why so many high performers unknowingly hold themselves back by playing it safe. Drawing from positive psychology, neuroscience, and her military background, Jill explains why bravery is not the absence of fear—but the decision to act alongside it. Throughout the conversation, Jill breaks down the hidden cost of avoiding hard conversations, the myths that keep leaders stuck, and why small, repeated acts of bravery compound over time to shape identity, performance, and fulfillment. She also introduces the three core dimensions of bravery—thinking bravely, acting bravely, and connecting bravely—and explains how these skills fuel leadership, confidence, and impact. This episode is a powerful reminder that growth requires discomfort—and that the life and leadership you want sit just on the other side of a brave decision.     You'll Learn: Why bravery is a skill—not a personality trait The difference between fearlessness and true courage The real cost of playing it safe in your career and life The most common fears that hold leaders back How small, daily acts of bravery shape identity and performance Why psychological safety requires personal bravery Practical ways to take action even when you feel unsure   Episode Resources & Links Learn more about Jill Schulman: https://www.jillschulman.com/ Order The Bravery Effect: https://www.jillschulman.com/ Download our 2025 Confidence Crisis Study: https://confidencestudy.com/ Request a Free Mental Breakthrough Call with Dr. Cindra or her team: https://freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ Learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/  

Confidence isn't something you set and forget. It shifts depending on the situation you're in. You can feel powerful in one moment… and shaky in a tough conversation hours later.   In this episode, we unpack findings from our national Confidence Study, including: 70% of working Americans believe they'd earn more if they improved their confidence 75% say confidence propels you further than sheer intelligence Nearly 70% dwell on past mistakes and battle a harsh inner critic You'll learn a simple reset tool called the Truth Meter™ to stabilize your confidence in real time. Confidence isn't about never doubting yourself.   It's about knowing how to respond when doubt shows up.   Power Phrase: "Confidence isn't a soft skill,  it's a performance multiplier."    Tune in to strengthen your confidence when it matters most!   To download our full study report, visit: confidencestudy.com To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: http://www.freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: https://cindrakamphoff.com/ To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit: Cindra Kamphoff, PhD (@cindrakamphoff) • Instagram photos and videos