Dr Kerry Spackman has spent decades studying one fascinating question — what separates the very best from everyone else?

As a cognitive neuroscientist and high-performance consultant, Kerry has worked with Formula One legends, Olympians, key All Blacks and some of the world's highest performers, helping them understand how the brain works and how to perform when it matters most.

In this episode of What a Lad, Kerry shares some incredible insights from his career. From working with three-time Formula One World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart and discovering his relentless attention to detail, to seeing firsthand the work ethic and mindset required to become a world champion.

Kerry also breaks down the science behind elite performance — why athletes choke under pressure, how the best performers see things others don't, why being the best youngster doesn't guarantee future success, and how our emotions and experiences can shape the way we think and behave.

Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…

Working with Sir Jackie Stewart and discovering what made him so different

The incredible work ethic Kerry has witnessed from world champions

Why some Wimbledon champions can predict where a serve is going before the ball is even hit

Why thinking too much under pressure can actually make you perform worse

Why being the best athlete at 16 doesn't mean you'll become the best as an adult

The mentality behind Hamish Bond and Eric Murray's incredible success

Why there are no shortcuts when it comes to becoming world-class

How confidence can be built just like a muscle

How emotional experiences from our past can continue to influence us years later

Why Kerry believes we have a far greater ability to change ourselves than we realise

This is one of those episodes that will make you think differently about performance, confidence and what we're actually capable of. Whether you're an athlete, coach, business owner or simply someone wanting to improve, there's plenty of gold in this one.

If you enjoy hearing how some of the world's best think and what we can learn from them, you'll love this episode.

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Episode 3 of The What a Lad Greatest Rivalry series, reviewing the All Blacks’ thrilling midweek clash against the Lions and previewing a massive second Test against the Springboks in Cape Town!

For this episode, I’m joined by the great Jeff McTainsh, who has been calling the action throughout the tour and joins me directly from South Africa to share his insight into the games and the incredible atmosphere surrounding this rivalry.

We break down how the All Blacks recovered from a 14-0 deficit against the Lions, including Ethan Blackadder’s enormous performance, Timoci Tavatavanawai’s impact, Emoni Narawa’s footwork and Rieko Ioane looking back to his explosive best.

We also discuss the challenges of preparing a midweek All Blacks side, which players have pushed their case for Test selection and the big decisions facing Dave Rennie ahead of Cape Town.

Then we preview Test 2, looking at the aerial battle, the importance of winning collisions and how the All Blacks can disrupt the Springboks’ structured game.

The All Blacks are 1-0 up, but with Handre Pollard and Siya Kolisi returning to the Springboks can they inspire a win to keep their series hopes alive, Cape Town is set up to be an absolute classic!

Can the All Blacks go 2-0 up, or will the Springboks fight their way back into the series?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

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Episode 2 of The What a Lad Greatest Rivalry series, reviewing an incredible opening Test between the All Blacks and Springboks at Ellis Park!

For this episode, I’m joined again by the great Searley from Searley Talks Sport as we break down how the All Blacks managed to come away with a huge 33-16 win, despite the Springboks dominating large parts of the first half.

We look at the massive moments that swung the Test, including the All Blacks bench front row completely changing the scrum battle, Fabian Holland’s charge down, Jordie Barrett’s incredible defensive effort, Will Jordan’s Man of the Match performance and Cam Roigard’s game management under pressure.

We also discuss just how impressive Cheslin Kolbe and Jasper Wiese were for the Springboks, the refereeing and TMO decisions, Rassie Erasmus’ reaction to the loss and what both sides will need to change heading into Test 2.

The All Blacks have drawn first blood, but with the Springboks now needing to win the remaining three Tests to take the series, this Greatest Rivalry Tour has been set up perfectly!

Can the All Blacks go 2-0 up in Cape Town, or will the Springboks bounce back?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

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