In a world where we are constantly moving, achieving, reacting and rushing into the next challenge, one of the most powerful skills we can develop is the ability to pause, reflect and intentionally choose our next step.

Welcome to the Sunday Strive, a guided weekly practice designed to help you look back with curiosity, learn from your experiences and create intentional action for the week ahead.

In this episode, we explore how reflection transforms everyday experiences into meaningful learning and how taking time to notice the small moments can create significant change over time.

Together, we will explore:

📝 Reflecting without judgement
Looking back over your week with curiosity rather than criticism, noticing the moments, conversations and experiences that shaped you.

🏆 Recognising your wins and progress
Learning to acknowledge the steps you have taken towards the person you are striving to become and connecting your progress to your Striver Table — your foundations of health, relationships, skills and contribution.

🧠 Turning experiences into learning
Understanding the challenges, setbacks and successes of the week and asking what they can teach you moving forward.

🧭 Creating direction for the week ahead
Identifying what matters, understanding the moments that may challenge you and planning how you can create the conditions for success.

⚡ Building behaviours that support your goals
Creating simple, sustainable habits and actions that you can return to when life becomes busy, unpredictable and challenging.

Because striving is not about creating a perfect life.

It is about creating awareness.

It is about making intentional choices.

It is about becoming slightly better, consistently.

The most successful people and teams do not simply experience life — they learn from it.

So grab your journal, find a quiet moment and give yourself the opportunity to reflect, reset and refocus.

Ask yourself:

Where am I going?
Do my behaviours align with what matters?
What is my next step?

Because:

Direction + Alignment + Effort = Striving

🎧 Join this weekly reflection practice and take one intentional step towards becoming the person you are capable of becoming.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, I sit down with Nigel Adkins to explore the leadership, culture and human behaviours behind sustained success in elite sport.

Nigel shares the lessons and principles that helped him guide Southampton FC from League One to the Premier League with back-to-back promotions, stabilise Hull City after relegation, and achieve promotions and play-off success with Scunthorpe United F.C.

Together, we dive into:

• How to create cultures aligned to a shared vision and common goal
• Why developing individuals is the foundation of developing great teams
• The leadership behaviours that create trust, belief and accountability
• How elite environments balance challenge, care and standards
• The importance of communication, alignment and consistency
• Why great teams are built through people, not just tactics

This conversation is packed with insight for:

• coaches
• leaders
• athletes
• teachers
• business professionals
• and anyone striving to create high-performing environments

Nigel’s humility, clarity and leadership shine throughout this episode, offering a rare look into the human side of elite performance and team development.

If you want to understand what truly drives successful teams, not just for moments, but sustainably over time, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now and discover how ownership, culture and leadership shape teams capable of striving together towards meaningful success.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Why do some people grow through challenge… while others shrink from it?

In this episode of How to Strive, we explore the powerful concept of mindset, inspired by the work of Dr Carol Dweck, and how it quietly shapes your performance, progress and potential.

We break down the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset, and more importantly, how both show up in your everyday life, often without you even realising it.

This isn’t just theory.

You’ll learn how to:

•  Recognise when you’re slipping into a fixed mindset 
•  Reframe challenges, setbacks, and failure 
•  Build behaviours that support continuous growth 
•  Use reflection to turn experience into progress 
•  Apply a growth mindset across your Striver Table—health, relationships, skills, and career 

Because striving isn’t about being perfect.

It’s about being willing to learn, adapt, and grow, again and again.

If you’ve ever avoided a challenge, doubted yourself, or felt stuck in your progress…

This episode will help you shift your thinking and more importantly, your actions.

The mindset you choose today… shapes the life you build tomorrow.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

How to Strive: Aligning Your Behaviours to the Outcome

Most people know what they want.
Very few align how they live to get there.

In this episode of How to Strive, we explore the powerful connection between outcomes, identity and daily behaviours and why this is the missing link for so many people striving for more.

Drawing on the work of James Clear and Simon Sinek, this episode breaks down how to:

•  Gain clarity on what you are truly striving for 
•  Understand the deeper why behind your goals 
•  Translate outcomes into clear, actionable behaviours 
•  Build habits that reflect the person you want to become 
•  Continuously reflect and adjust as your journey evolves 

This isn’t about setting better goals.
It’s about building better systems.

Because success isn’t found in big moments, it’s built through small, consistent actions aligned with purpose.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, inconsistent, or disconnected from your goals…

This episode will help you close the gap between intention and action.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

What if the biggest barrier to progress isn’t effort… but direction?

In this episode of How to Strive, we explore why clarity is the foundation of meaningful progress and how aligning your actions with your purpose allows your effort to truly matter.

Using the simple equation Direction + Alignment + Maximum Effort = Striving, this episode breaks down how you can move beyond being busy and start moving forward with intention.

Drawing on ideas such as the famous quote from Lao Tzu “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” , we explore how taking the right first step requires reflection, clarity and purpose. We also explore the Japanese concept of Ikigai, helping you consider where passion, skill, meaning and opportunity intersect in your life.

Throughout the episode, you’ll learn practical frameworks to help you turn direction into action, including:

• Thinking in macro, meso and micro planning
• Building micro habits that create consistent progress
• Structuring your goals through outcome, performance and process goals
• Focusing on the process rather than obsessing over the outcome

If you’ve ever felt busy but unsure if you’re moving in the right direction, this episode will help you slow down, reflect and take the next step with intention.

Because striving isn’t about doing more.

It’s about moving forward with purpose.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Why do we forget so much of what we learn… and what actually makes something stick?

In this episode of How to Strive, we explore the science behind learning, memory, and behaviour change, so you can move from simply consuming information to truly becoming better.

Drawing on research from Hermann Ebbinghaus, we break down why repetition, emotion and environment play a crucial role in how your brain stores and recalls information. From the forgetting curve to the power of neural pathways, you’ll begin to understand why your favourite song sticks effortlessly while most of what you read or hear disappears.

This episode goes beyond theory. You’ll gain practical tools to:

• Retain information more effectively
• Turn learning into consistent habits
• Apply knowledge in a way that drives real change
• Build systems that support long-term growth

If you’re serious about striving, not just learning more, but becoming more, this episode will reshape how you approach your development.

Keep striving.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

What does it really take to develop elite coaches?

In this episode of How to Strive, we explore the challenge and opportunity of working with expert and master practitioners. When someone already performs at a high level, traditional coaching approaches often fall short. So how do you add value?

This episode dives into the shift from teaching to refining, from giving answers to deepening awareness. We explore how to become a mirror, a thinking partner, and a precise challenger, helping top-level coaches uncover blind spots, sharpen their decision-making, and evolve their identity.

If you’ve ever questioned your value when working with high performers, or you’re striving to operate at a more elite level as a coach or leader, this episode will give you a powerful new perspective.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Are you truly maximising the support around you?

In this episode of How to Strive, we turn the lens onto the coach. Having access to a mentor or coach developer is a privilege, however the real impact comes from how you show up to that relationship.

We explore how to move from being a passive recipient to an active driver of your own development. From setting clear intentions, inviting challenge and using your coach developer as a mirror… to turning reflection into meaningful action.

This episode is packed with practical shifts and powerful questions to help you take ownership of your growth and accelerate your development.

If you’re serious about striving to be better, not just doing more, but becoming more. this one is for you.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, Nick is joined by Anthony Limbrick, who is a highly respected football coach with experience leading professional teams and developing elite footballers internationally.

Anthony brings an methodical coaching identity shaped by years in high-performance environments, from working in the academies of Southampton and West Ham United and with England’s U-17s, to managing first-team squads across Europe and now taking the helm at Loudoun United FC in the USL Championship. 

His methods, that are grounded in player development, tactical clarity, building competitive identity and detailed preparation have earned him success at every level he has coached at. 

In this conversation we explore how Anthony’s life experiences have shaped his values, how he builds cultures of growth and resilience in teams and what aspiring leaders can learn from his journey in elite sport and coaching development.

As a Striver, this episode will inspire how you think about identity, challenge and continuous improvement.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

As a new year begins, this episode of How to Strive invites you to maintain your progress and align intentions heading as we move into 2026. 

Using the Striver Table concept, Nick guides you through a powerful process to define a meaningful title for your year and build the habits, behaviours and routines needed to support it. 

You’ll identify four key areas of life that which act as the table legs that keep the table up, sturdy and strong. From here you can work out what you need to stop, start and continue doing in each area. 

This episode also introduces a simple Sunday reflection routine to help you bring attention to whats happening, adjust week by week, stay aligned month by month, and continue striving throughout the year.

If you’re looking to move beyond resolutions and create a year rooted in intention, awareness and consistency, this episode is your place to start.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Nick is joined by Paul Holder AKA Noddy who has supported the development of many players and coaches through his energetic coaching style. 

This insightful episodes will be fantastic for people Striving to be better at supporting the development of people in sport and life by seeking to understand them and building trust to then create growth. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this final episode of How to Strive’s mini-series on Neil Mullarkey’s Seven Steps to Improve Your People Skills, Nick explores the essential and often overlooked skill of leaving well.

Drawing on Neil’s insights from the stage, business, and psychology, we unpack why endings matter, how the final moments of an interaction, meeting, or relationship shape how it’s remembered. From the Peak-End Rule explored by Daniel Kahneman to practical advice on closing conversations, meetings, and connections with intention, this episode helps you finish strong and leave the right lasting impression.

Discover how to create closure, follow up meaningfully, and ensure the “aftertaste” of every interaction reflects trust, gratitude, and growth.

Because how we end something says as much about us as how we begin.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this special episode of How to Strive, Nick is joined by the brilliant Neil Mullarkey; actor, author, comedian and co-founder of The Comedy Store Players, Europe’s longest-running improv troupe.

Neil shares insights from his book Seven Steps to Improve Your People Skills, exploring how the principles of improv, Learn, Look, Listen, Let, Link, Lighten and Leave Well  can transform the way we communicate, collaborate, and lead.

From the importance of listening with intent to the power of humour in leadership, Neil’s approach blends psychology, performance, and empathy into a timeless guide for connecting with others and with yourself.

This conversation is both insightful and uplifting, reminding us that the ability to “strive” isn’t about perfection, but about presence, curiosity and the courage to say “Yes, and…”

Whether you’re leading a team, developing yourself, or simply looking to improve the way you connect, this episode will help you learn to communicate with confidence, kindness, and creativity.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, Nick explores Step Six of Neil Mullarkey’s Seven Steps to Improve Your People Skills 'Lighten'.

Humour, as Neil reminds us, is about connection. It’s a leadership tool that builds trust, creativity and resilience. A leader who can laugh at themselves invites others to do the same, creating a culture where people feel safe to grow, fail and try again.

Drawing on research, stories and Neil’s decades of experience in improv and leadership development, this episode explores how humour brings perspective, strengthens teams and humanises leadership.

Because when we lighten, we lift and when we lift others, we lead.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, Nick explores the next step in Neil Mullarkey’s Seven Steps to Improve Your People Skills 'Link'

Link is the step that connects all the others where learning, looking, listening, and letting come together to create genuine connection. Neil reminds us that “The seven Ls are not distinct, discrete ploys, they are overlapping aspects of getting on better with people.”

Through the improv principle of “Yes, and”, we explore how intentive listening, openness and collaboration turn everyday conversations into opportunities for trust, creativity, and growth.

This episode unpacks how to replace the limiting “Yes, but” mindset with a “Yes, and” approach,  one that builds bridges instead of barriers and helps you bring out the best in others.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, Nick explores the third step in Neil Mullarkey’s Seven Steps to Improve Your People Skills, Listen.

Neil reminds us that hearing is automatic, but listening is a skill,  one that requires attention, presence, and empathy. We look at the difference between hearing and truly listening, how to tune into both content and emotion, and why giving someone your full attention is one of the greatest gifts you can offer.

Hearing + Attention = Listening.

Drawing on insights from improv, neuroscience, and leadership, this episode helps you shift from waiting to speak to listening to understand.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, Nick explores one of his favourite chapters from Neil Mullarkey’s Seven Steps to Improve Your People Skills, Let.

We dive into the quiet power of pausing, creating space in conversations, and the skill of bringing out the best in others. Neil’s insights remind us that real connection often happens between the words, when we slow down, let people speak, and let them feel valued.

We also explore why letting people be right builds trust, how “positive gossip” can transform relationships, and why small moments of praise can have a big impact.

This episode is about leading by lifting others, not by saying more, but by letting more.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, Nick explores the second step in Neil Mullarkey’s Seven Steps to Improve Your People Skills Look.

We dive into the power of presence and the art of seeing what isn’t said, the body language, energy, and nonverbal cues that shape every interaction. By learning to truly look at others (and ourselves), we can build deeper trust, stronger connections, and communicate with more impact.

This episode blends Neil’s insights with real-world reflection practices, helping you slow down, tune in, and notice what really matters in the moments between words.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, Nick dives into the first step of Neil Mullarkey’s Seven Steps to Improve Your People Skills Learn.

We explore how real learning happens through doing, reflecting, and applying, and why a growth mindset is essential to becoming the person you want to be. Featuring powerful insights from Neil’s book, this episode will help you pause, reflect, and take your next step forward with purpose.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, Nick guides you through a powerful weekly reflection practice designed to help you pause, reflect, and realign before stepping into a new week.

Together, we:
Celebrate last week’s wins and moments of pride.
Acknowledge adversity and the lessons it brings without judgment.
Revisit intentions using the Striver Table framework,  focusing on the areas that matter most.
Set clear, meaningful intentions for the week ahead, identifying that crucial first step on your journey of a thousand miles.

This isn’t about perfection, it’s about consistent growth, learning, and living with purpose.

If you’re ready to start your week with clarity and momentum, this episode will help you ground your reflections and turn them into action.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode, Nick explores how journaling can become a powerful daily tool to help you strive. 

Nick breaks it down into three key benefits:

1. Clarity – Understanding yourself more deeply and spotting patterns that shape your growth.
2. Direction – Turning reflection into clear intentions that keep you focused and accountable. The tiny steps that take you a thousand miles. 
3. Resilience – Building emotional strength, vocabulary, processing challenges, and celebrating wins.

This isn’t about writing for the sake of it, it’s about creating space to lead yourself forward with purpose.

Whether you’re just starting or want to level up your reflection practice, this episode will help you make journaling a meaningful part of your striving journey.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

You space to set great intentions for you day to help you stay accountable for your striving. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

A guided insight in to how Nick structures his Sunday Strive with reflections and intentions. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this powerful episode, Nick is joined by Dr. Sally Needham, a leader in human development and performance.

Sally shares incredible insights from her experiences shaping performance by truly understanding the individuals you work with. Drawing on neuroscience and developmental practice, she explores how awareness, connection, and compassion can elevate both personal growth and the way we support others.

Throughout her career, including her time with the English FA, working across academy and international levels, Sally has transformed the way coaches and leaders approach people development.

Nick is privileged to share this insightful conversation, filled with wisdom, science, and practical guidance for anyone striving to grow or to help others do the same.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Nick guides you through your September reflection to inform your October intentions. 

He also shares two excellent clips from the episodes with Cody Royle and Dr Phil Hopley, relevant to performing in elite sport, dealing with external pressure and adversity. Very timely with the conclusion of the Womens Rugby World Cup and the Mens Ryder Cup. 

Keep Striving. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

A daily habits to help you Strive. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Nick helps you with a guided reflection and intention episode that will help you Strive this week. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Nick is joined by the fantastic Damien Broad is this How to Strive episode. 

Damien shares what he is striving for and his perspective on developing skills to help develop others. 

His curiosity to seek challenge for his growth is fluent throughout and the stories he shares, which shines a light on his ability to connect with and understand others. 

A great listen for people who are striving to be better in many aspects of their life. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this week’s episode of How to Strive, we take time to pause, reflect, and refocus. 

Together, we look back on the intentions you set last week, celebrating what worked, unpacking what didn’t, and discovering how those reflections can shape more purposeful intentions for the days ahead.

Alongside this guided reflection and intention-setting practice, we explore the powerful skill of seeking to understand others. Drawing on insights from past conversations including a clip from Dr. Phil Hopley and one from Damien Broad on appreciating different perspectives. 

This episode will help you:

• Reflect meaningfully on your previous week’s intentions.
• Set new, clear intentions for the week ahead.
• Develop the skill of seeking to understand and appreciate others perspective.
• Develop an awareness of different behaviours for relevant situations. 

Tune in, take a breath, and get ready to strive with fresh clarity and deeper connection.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode Nick is joined by Dr Philip Hopley MRCPsych who is a Consultant Psychiatrist and Co-Founder of Cognacity Ltd

Phil is a Medical Doctor and Consultant Psychiatrist. After 19 years working with the NHS, he founded Cognacity. Phil’s training in forensic, general and sport psychiatry combined with a career playing Premiership rugby, enabled him to develop his passion for the mental health of elite performance in sport and business. 

In recent years Phil has worked as the Mental Health Advisor to major financial and law firms, and elite sport including the McLaren Formula 1 and Olympic teams guiding Mental Health strategy development and providing coaching / crisis support. In his downtime, mindful dog walking, watching sport, playing golf and trying to keep up with the next generation of Hopleys helps to keep him balanced.

This is such an insightful and impactful episode for people striving for a goal in their life as it acknowledges the daily habits and realities of performing in your context. The relationships we have with stress and methods to keep it healthy are hugely important for individuals striving for something as often we will interact with challenges that require us to be resilient or call upon methods of regulation. 

What ever it is you are Striving for, this conversation with Phil is another opportunity to help you navigate the next step of a thousand miles. 

Learn more about Phil and Cognacity at https://www.cognacity.co.uk/ 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Nick guides you through the process of reflecting on the month of August and helps prompt powerful intentions for September. 

Grab your journal and lets get Striving. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In todays episode we explore the principles of Gamification to help you on your striving journey. 

Ways to win and different ways to win more

Check points 

Side quests to gain more points or XP

Bonus levels 

Repetition 

Basics that develop in complexity

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Nick is joined by the highly respected Lee Richardson. 

Lee is the co-founder of Aim-For and a hugely important staff member of one of the most successful football teams in England. 

We explore the four pillars of Lees work and practical methods of psychology that helps sports people perform at their very best. 

This episode is sure to spark reflections and create intentions aligned to what you are currently striving for.

If you are curious to know more head to https://4pillarshub.com/ 

As always we would love to hear about your efforts on your journey of a thousand miles so please do share with us. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

“The goal isn’t to fix anything right now, it’s simply to see what’s true. Awareness is the first step in striving forward.”

This episode helps you reflect on your last months progress and use that reflection to set up success with intentions for the incoming month. 

Bring a pen and your journal. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How To Strive, we’re joined by Fiona Murden. Fiona is a chartered psychologist, award-winning author, Podcaster and performance coach. 

Feeling Curious? 

https://www.fionamurden.com/

Linkedin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/fionamurden/

Dot to dot podcast 

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/dot-to-dot-life-connected/id1513046864

Published books 

Defining You 

Mirror Thinking,

Instagram 

https://www.instagram.com/fiona_murden?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this powerful episode of How to Strive, Nick is joined by the inspiring and humble Jamie Carr, who shares the mindset, strategies, and deep resilience it took to complete two of the world's toughest physical challenges: running the Marathon des Sables across the Sahara and rowing the Atlantic solo and unsupported for 3,000 miles.

Together, they explore:

• How Jamie applied process goals and created personal rules to stay focused during extreme adversity.
• Jamies longer term reflective process. 
• The mental toughness and adaptability required to coach professionally in England while chasing ambitious physical goals.
• Why resilience isn’t just about pushing through, but about managing yourself, your mindset, and your mission.
• How important humour and camaraderie is during tough times. 
• Practical takeaways you can use to build your own strategies for life’s toughest moments.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to endure the unimaginable and how to build that strength into your daily life this is the episode for you.

🌊🏃‍♂️🔥 Listen now and get inspired to create your own rules, face your challenges, and keep striving forward.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode, Nick dives into the Euro 2024 Technical Report, unpacking key insights and trends that are shaping the modern game. From goal-scoring to chance creation, pressing strategies, and low block structures, Nick breaks down what the data reveals and more importantly, how it influences his own coaching and development approach.

Topics include:

• Goals: Types, timing, and trends
• Chance creation and final third entries
• Transition moments and counter strategies
• Set play effectiveness
• High pressing vs. compact low blocks
• Modern build-up patterns

Whether you’re a coach, player, or curious fan, this episode offers practical interpretations to help you strive forward with clarity and intent in your football journey.

Tune in and get the edge from Europe's top tournament!

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Join Nick Adkins as he welcomes Tom McIntyre, a professional footballer in the English Championship, for a truly unique insight into the realities of elite sport. Tom opens up about his journey from academy player to established professional, revealing the lessons learned, the setbacks overcome, and the mindset required to thrive at the top level. 

• His evolution from youth prospect to professional player - When competition is useful and not.
• Strategies for regulation – staying composed and focused in high-pressure environments.
• Resilience in the face of challenges – building mental strength when the game tests you most.
• Purpose-driven performance – how values and discipline keep him grounded.

This episode offers rare behind-the-scenes perspectives on the challenges, demands and rewards of life as a professional footballer, alongside universal lessons in perseverance, mindset and personal growth.

If you’re striving for excellence, whether in sport, career or life, Tom’s story will inspire you to push forward with purpose and resilience.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this powerful episode of How to Strive, we’re joined by performance specialist Chris Key from Performing Perfectly to explore how you can develop unshakeable resilience and become more intentional in the way you communicate both verbally and non-verbally.

What we cover:

• How to process rejection and feedback without losing your confidence.
• Why your body language and tone might be saying more than your words and how to align them with what you actually want to achieve
• The everyday power of storytelling and how it can transform the way you coach, lead, and connect with others

Whether you’re a coach, leader, or someone striving to be better every day, this conversation is packed with insights that will inspire you to go to the next level. 

If you are curious to know more about Chris head to,

www.performingperfectly.com/ 

to also listen to Chris' podcast drop the act follow the link below. 

https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/drop-the-act/id1789025762 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this short bonus episode, Nick introduces the Striver Board, a powerful visual and reflective tool designed to help you turn big dreams into daily action. Building on the Striver Table concept, this board helps you stay accountable to your values and goals in areas like health, relationships, career, and finances.

Learn how to create your own board, reflect on your intentions, and make small, consistent steps toward the life you’re striving for. Nick shares personal examples, practical questions, and an easy system to track your progress while enjoying the process.

What you'll learn in this episode:

• What a Striver Board is and how it differs from a vision board
• How to link your board to your Striver Table legs
• Ways to track and celebrate your daily progress
• Reflective prompts to stay intentional and adaptive

Resources Mentioned:
👉 www.strive25.co.uk – Reach out for mentoring or to share your board
🎧 Listen to the Striver Table episode for context

Enjoyed the episode?
Please follow, rate & review – it really helps more people discover the show.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this insightful episode, Nick sits down with Jody Palmer, a renowned Performance Chef, to explore the intersection of nutrition, performance, and personal growth. With a wealth of experience in crafting dietary strategies for elite athletes, Jody shares her journey, philosophies, and practical tips for anyone looking to enhance their performance through nutrition and level themselves up.

What You'll Learn

• Jody's path to becoming a Performance Chef and his experiences working with top athletes.
• The role of nutrition in achieving peak performance and overall well-being.
• Practical advice on meal planning and nutrition.
• More examples of how someone at the top of their field continues to Strive for better. 

Visit www.strive25.co.uk for more information on coaching programs and resources.

If you found this episode valuable, please share this forward to someone who needs to hear it. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue providing quality content for those Striving. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this reflective episode of How to Strive, Nick invites you to imagine your life as a table, with each leg representing a pillar of your life that supports what you’re striving for. Whether your table top is happiness, fulfilment, or your birthday BBQ vision, this simple metaphor can help you assess your current balance.

Nick shares his own four table legs: health, relationships, career, and finance, and introduces a practical exercise used in his mentoring programmes. Scoring each leg out of 6 to reveal where you might need to focus attention.

You’ll be guided through how to use these reflections to create process goals and daily intentions that help you move closer to your version of 6 out of 6.

Plus, Nick teases an upcoming episode on creating your own Striver Board.  A powerful tool to turn intention into action.

Take a moment for deeper journaling:

• How would you score your table legs right now?
• What’s one step you can take today to strengthen a wobbly leg?
• Which legs help each other stay upright?

If you’d like some support in shaping your reflections into meaningful action, Nick and the team would love to hear from you at www.strive25.co.uk.

If this episode sparked something for you, please hit follow and leave a review it helps us reach more people striving for better.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In today’s episode, Nick is joined by Will Webster, a globally respected figure in the rugby world, best known for his work coaching head coaches.

We dive deep into Will’s fascinating journey from player to head coach, with a detour through teaching English literature. Will shares how that unique path shaped his current role, and what it means to coach the people who lead others.

You’ll hear about:

• Planning success within sporting team and the intentional influence of teaching on coaching
• How will uses growth, reflection, and intention to impact his work

Will’s mindset around continuous improvement offers valuable insights anyone can learn from, whether you're in sports, leadership, or just trying to be a little better every day.

Curious to know more? 

Will can be found on the below links. 

www.wwperformanceleadership.com/

www.linkedin.com/in/will-webster-665675a1/

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode, Nick revisits a powerful clip from his conversation with Cody Royle to dive deeper into the language of resilience. He explores how developing resilient thinking is a learnable skill and shares a brief but practical insight into cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), particularly around the role of positive and negative self-talk. To wrap up, Nick introduces a creative game he's using with his son to introduce self-regulation principles in a fun, accessible way. Listen now and discover small, meaningful ways to build resilience for yourself and your family.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Episode Summary:
In today’s episode, I take you behind the scenes into a very personal reflection: what I’m striving for — and how that vision shapes my daily actions, career aspirations, and relationships.
I share the powerful image of my "100th birthday BBQ," inspired by lessons from the world of elite sport — especially the legendary All Blacks rugby team.
We explore how to set goals with purpose beyond just outcomes and how you can start building a vision for your own journey of a thousand miles.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• 🎯 Why setting goals beyond personal success leads to deeper fulfillment
• 🎯 The story of my 100th birthday BBQ — and why it drives my daily habits
• 🎯 Lessons from the All Blacks on changing the world (not just winning)
• 🎯 How to frame your own life vision with a simple but powerful question:
   "Who do I need to be, and what do I need to be capable of?"
• 🎯 Practical steps to begin building your own version of this vision

Key Quotes:

"I'm striving to fill the seats — with people I've helped, and people who've helped me.""The All Blacks didn’t just want to win — they wanted to shock and inspire the world."

"Who do I need to be, and what do I need to be capable of? That question can change everything."

Episode Links:

• 🌐 Website: www.strive25.co.uk
• 🤝 Connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nick-adkins-7a67534b/
• 📩 Share what you’re striving for on email or any social media platform. 

Take Action After Listening:

1. 🖊️ Reflect: Journal your thoughts — what resonated most?
2. 🌍 Share: Submit your "striving for" vision through the website or LinkedIn.
3. 📞 Reach out: Schedule a call with me to dive deeper into your vision.

Thank you for striving with me. Keep showing up, keep moving forward, and remember: the journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step, so keep stepping. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, we sit down with Jason Lee — Olympic hockey player, elite coach, who continues helping people strive across sport and business. Jason brings a wealth of experience and insight into what drives high performance and personal development.

We dive deep into the foundations of resilience, the power of a growth mindset, and the subtle but impactful role of language in shaping behaviour and outcomes. Jason also shares his thoughts on emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and the consistent trends he observes in successful individuals, from athletes to executives.

Whether you're pushing your limits on the field, in the office, or in your personal life, this episode is packed with lessons to help you strive for better with purpose and clarity.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In this episode of How to Strive, Nick is joined by Professor Mark Williams — a world-leading expert in skill acquisition and performance science. With decades of research behind him, Mark unpacks the key elements that make up an optimal learning environment and how these shape long-term learning and success  

We explore practical strategies for acquiring skills, building resilience, and understanding the psychological and environmental factors that separate the good from the great. Mark reveals the science behind how the best truly become the best.

If you're curious about the mechanics of mastery and want to learn how to unlock more of your potential, this episode offers a deep, research-driven perspective.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the How to Strive podcast, we explore the power of journaling as a tool for continuous improvement. Striving isn’t about perfection—it’s about making small, consistent changes that lead to long-term growth. These journal prompts are designed to help you reflect, take actionable steps, and enhance your mindset, productivity, and well-being. Whether you journal daily or are just starting, these prompts will guide you toward meaningful self-improvement. Grab your journal and get ready to strive.

How to Use These Prompts:
Be intentional with your journaling. Pause the episode as needed, take time to reflect, or write down prompts to answer later. The key is to take small, actionable steps—because progress, not perfection, is what truly drives growth.

Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Keep striving, keep improving, and embrace the process of continuous growth!

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Episode Description:
In today’s episode of How to Strive, we are joined by Philip O'Callaghan, a dedicated teacher, tennis coach, and passionate advocate for skill acquisition. Philip shares his approach to teaching and coaching, with a strong focus on the principles of skill acquisition and how they’ve shaped his coaching style over time.

Through this conversation, Philip offers insight into how he fosters an environment where students actively problem-solve and how he adapts the learning environment, constraints, or skill challenges to meet the needs of his athletes. Whether you're a coach, teacher, or student, Philip’s strategies provide valuable takeaways for creating meaningful and effective learning experiences.

Additionally, Philip discusses the resources he creates for other coaches and educators, including his Substack newsletter and X (formerly Twitter) account, where he shares helpful tips, strategies, and thought-provoking content on coaching and skill acquisition.

Key Topics Discussed:

Philip’s Coaching Journey – The path that led him to adopt his current approach to coaching and teaching.

Principles of Skill Acquisition – How skill acquisition plays a central role in Philip’s teaching and coaching style.

Creating a Learning Environment – The importance of designing environments where students can actively problem-solve and engage with the material.

The Role of Constraints – How changing constraints (environment, skill, or task) can either challenge or support students’ learning.

Adapting to Contexts – How Philip adapts his coaching methods based on different contexts and skill levels.

Follow Philip O'Callaghan:

X (Twitter): @Mr_Tennis_Coach – Follow for coaching insights, skill acquisition tips, and strategies for teachers and coaches.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In todays episode Nick shares an insight into the differences between a fixed and growth mindset. how you can build awareness of which mindset you have in certain situations along with how to be in a more desirable mindset when needed. Mindset being a reference to the impactful work of Carol Dweck. 

He also explores briefly the work of the late Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi who was a Hungarian-American psychologist, recognised as developing the concept of Flow. He was also the author of the book Flow. 

The two questions from this episode 

What does your ideal environment include for you to achieve your flow state? 

Who is the best at growth mindset? What do they say? How do they behave? What do they do? 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In todays episode we are exploring the basic levels of sleep. 

The aim of todays episode is to help you understand what contributes to a great night sleeps and offers you some ways to improve your sleep by tweaking your environment and your warm up to sleep performance. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Dr Sean Cumming 

Senior Lecture at Bath University sport and exercise science

Working with a number of sports, NGB’s including the Premier League, The FA, LTA and Premier League Academies. 

Over 100 peer reviewed manuscripts and book chapters.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Cody Royle, a second set of eyes for elite head coaches. 

Author of A second set of eyes, The tough stuff and Where others wont. 

Coach Craft 
https://coachcraft.codyroyle.com/ 
There are four craft areas that modern head coaches are required to master:

🏭️ Organizational Craft

🧢 Personal Craft

🎒 Locker Room Craft

♟️ Game Craft

How to develop resilience. 

How to be an empathetic leader 

Reflection process

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Prompted reflections

Outcome goal 

Performance goal 

Process goal 

Focused reflection 

Based on my process goals. Look back at them. 

Did I achieve my intentions yes or no? 

What helped me 

What stopped me 

What can I do different

What should I stop, start or continue doing? 

General Reflection

What did I love about the week? 

What didn’t bring out the best in me? 

What did I find tough?

What takes me to the next level as a…?

What what’s my best win of the week?

Based on my reflections, what are my intentions for the next week(Process goals )? 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Support 

From last weeks process goals, which ones did you achieve? 

How did you do this? Who or what helped you? 

What takes it to the next level? 

Challenge 

What are you putting off doing? 

What one thing will have the biggest contributor of success this week. 

Inspire 

Russell Earnshaw Podcast 

Developing self awareness 

Creating a user manual for others and yourself. 

Be self driven. 

The Johari Window 1955
Known to self 
Unknown to self 
Known to others 
Unknown to others 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

In today’s episode of How to Strive, Rusty shares a wealth of experience in coaching individuals and teams to reach their highest potential. 

Drawing on his deep knowledge in personal development, leadership, and motivation, Rusty discusses how he stays ahead of the curve and what he’s observed in the mindset and habits of top performers, offering actionable insights for anyone striving to level up. Whether you’re a a coach, player or a striver this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you strive.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Sunday Strive

A guided reflection to help athletes and coaches to reflect and set more intentional and impactful process goals.

Outcome goal - Longer term goal that you don't fully have control over. Example Winning the league, getting promotion. Be the best coach in the world. 

Performance goal - These goals are the what success looks like of the outcome goal. If you achieve this you have more influence over achieving the outcome goal. Measurable where possible or clarity in if you do it or not.
Player: 15 crosses into finishing areas
Coach: 10 specific prompt/ instruction to identified players based on their ILP's

Process goal - What are the daily actions or tasks that you need to focus on that help you achieve the performance goal. 
Player: Watch footage of my event. In training focus on getting better accuracy of my cut back cross off one touch. 
Coach: Listen to a podcast on communication styles with neurodiverse children. 
Provide the player working on crosses, enough realistic repetition for them to work on their learning plan. 

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/

Hi I am your host Nick. 

With over 13 years of experience in professional sports coaching, I have dedicated my career to player and coach development across a variety of sports and industries. My expertise spans both on-field coaching and strategic development roles, where I’ve worked to enhance performance, build high-functioning teams, and foster long-term growth in athletes and coaches alike. In addition to my work in sport, I have also collaborated with businesses to transfer my coaching skills and principles into organizational development, helping teams and leaders thrive in dynamic environments through my transformational leadership approach. My commitment to continuous learning and fostering a growth mindset drives me to always pursue excellence in every aspect of my work.

Start Striving at 

www.strive25.co.uk/