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Performance Strategies & Stumbles

Performance Strategies & Stumbles

By: Dan Howells Collaborate Sports
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Welcome to ”Performance Strategies and Stumbles,” a podcast where we dissect the dynamic world of strategies in performance sports, as well as practitioner struggles, in two compelling halves! In our initial segment, we delve into the strategies practitioners employ in performance sports environments, uncovering the HOW and the WHY behind their decisions. This exploration equips our audience with actionable insights, providing a playbook of strategies to implement in their own athletic endeavours. The second half of our podcast shifts focus to the hurdles and missteps encountered by practitioners throughout their careers. As we delve into the realm of mistakes, our guests candidly share valuable lessons learned from their setbacks. By shedding light on the imperfections in performance, we underscore that success is a journey filled with unexpected twists. Embracing the concept of ”failing forward,” we invite you to join us as we unravel authentic stories behind the ebb and flow of strategy in the ever-evolving world of performance sports! Host: Dan Howells, Founder of Collaborate Sports www.collaboratesports.com email: info@collaboratesports.comCopyright 2023 All rights reserved.
Episodes
  • Ep35 - Warren Bradley Strategy - Performance BFR
    Jan 7 2026

    In this strategy-focused episode of Performance Strategies and Stumbles, I am joined by Dr Warren Bradley, founder of Hytro and a leading specialist in Blood Flow Restriction (BFR).

    Warren has worked across professional sport, including roles with England teams, Munster Rugby, and football clubs such as Hull City and Derby County, and now combines applied practice with research and innovation through the company he founded, called Hytro.

    Together, we explore BFR as a performance strategy. The conversation breaks down how BFR can be used across preparation, training, and recovery, and why it remains an underutilised method in many high-performance environments.

    We dive into the physiological mechanisms underpinning BFR, including hypoxia and reactive hyperaemia, and discuss how wearable BFR technology has improved accessibility, safety, and real-world application. Warren also shares practical insights on progressive overload through pressure, effective protocols for performance and rehab, and how practitioners can apply BFR with greater intent.

    This episode is ideal for coaches, sport scientists, and practitioners looking to better understand what’s under the hood of BFR and how to use it responsibly and effectively.

    We also have a huge giveaway right now where you can win 6months mentorship on one of our Performance Group Mentorship programmes. Apply HERE if that is something you are interested in!

    Dan

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    34 mins
  • Ep34 - Pete Mcknight Stumbles - "I had a coach absolutely lose it with me"
    Dec 10 2025

    In this Stumbles episode of Performance Strategies and Stumbles, Dan sits down once again with Pete McKnight, one of the most respected performance consultants and strategists in elite sport.

    This time, the conversation shifts from strategy to the mistakes that have shaped Pete’s leadership journey — the moments that taught him the most about people, communication, and team culture.

    Dan and Pete explore the often-overlooked topic of leadership stumbles, particularly around onboarding new staff and managing relationships with key stakeholders. Pete shares honest reflections on early-career missteps, including how power dynamics can unintentionally undermine new hires, why young practitioners can remain “the newbie” far too long, and the consequences of assuming alignment rather than building it.

    Together they break down why leaders must empower new staff from day one, communicate more deliberately, and create team environments where expectations, roles, and responsibilities are clear and shared.

    This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is often learned through mistakes, and that reflective practice is essential for long-term growth.

    Don't forget if you're an emerging coach looking for career support, or know coaches who could benefit from our employability mentorship support. then do look to see what we offer HERE where you can apply for sponsored support from TeamBuildr (apply HERE)

    Enjoying the podcast? Please share across socials to help spread the word about the work we are doing!

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    29 mins
  • Ep33 - Pete Mcknight Strategy - Building Sport Science & Medical Systems.
    Dec 3 2025

    In this strategy-focused episode of Performance Strategies and Stumbles, Dan sits down with Pete McKnight - one of the most respected performance consultants and strategists in elite sport. With nearly 25 years of experience across Olympic programmes, football, rugby, and motorsport, Pete is known for transforming how organisations structure their performance systems.

    Together, Dan and Pete explore the strategy behind developing sport science and medical teams, especially in emerging or developing club environments. They break down the auditing process, how to prioritise what’s essential versus what’s merely desirable, and how to build integrated systems that connect people, processes, and facilities.

    Pete introduces the principles behind his Performance Interplay framework and discusses the pivotal moments where strategic decisions shape long-term success - including cultural transitions, new ownership, major investment, and infrastructure upgrades.

    The conversation also touches on the realities of consultancy: understanding budgets, interviewing key staff, identifying gaps, and creating alignment across stakeholders.

    This episode is packed with practical insight for anyone working in performance systems, leadership, or sport science.

    Don't forget to apply for employability mentorship HERE if that is something you could benefit from, and our emails go out weekly offering performance advice that you are free to sign up for too, HERE!

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    35 mins
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