Podcast 339: Powerful Strategies to Improve Human Performance with Expert Rachel Vickery

What separates the good from great in high-pressure environments? On this episode of the WHOOP Podcast, WHOOP Global Head of Human Performance and Principal Scientist Dr. Kristen Holmes sits down with Rachel Vickery, world-renowned performance consultant. Having spent decades working with elite athletes, military operators, Fortune 500 executives, and emergency physicians, Rachel has cracked the code on understanding and regulating the nervous system to ensure optimal performance when stakes are high. 

Dr. Holmes and Rachel explore how physiology, behavior, and mindset intersect, and why mastering the nervous system is the key to unlocking peak performance. From breathing mechanics and physiological control, to cultivating curiosity and trust under pressure, this conversation dives deep into the science and skills you need for success.

Episode Chapters

0:48 - Rachel Vickery on human performance

1:41 - Rapid fire questions

2:50 - Essential breathing techniques to use under pressure

11:38 - Keeping the body and mind calm: what to do and why it's important

15:56 - Navigating fear and maintaining positive self talk

21:04 - How to train your physiology to aid a positive mindset

27:03 - Where data comes into play: measuring performance traits and habits

34:29 - Maintaining a solid foundation: high performance no matter the occasion

41:58 - The missing piece to ease pressure in high performing environments

50:40 - Co-regulating: maintaining your cool in a team environment

57:10 - Advice for athletes & coaches: easing physiological effects in a high pressure environment

1:07:42 - Mitigating anxiety: tools and tips for athletes

1:11:25 - Operating with trust: how does this benefit high performers?

1:14:57 - Learning from common traits relating to performance anxiety