2. Sleep, Stress and the Neuroscience of High Performance

Are you wearing burnout as a badge of honor? In this episode, Jason Leavy and cognitive neuroscientist Samira Cutts dive deep into the science of what it actually takes to perform at your best, sustainably.They break down why chronic stress is literally killing your cognitive edge, how "good stress" (eustress) is a superpower when used correctly, and why the leaders who ignore their biology are actively destroying the very thing that makes them exceptional.In this episode:• The neuroscience of stress - good stress vs. bad stress and where the line is• Why burnout isn't just about long hours (and the signs you're closer to the edge than you think)• Wearables: useful compass or a crutch that's outsourcing your self-awareness?• Biofeedback and why "feelings" are actually critical performance data• The elastic band principle - how great leaders oscillate instead of breaking• Why sleep deprivation is eroding your decision-making, creativity, and leadership presence• The presenteeism trap - and how toxic workplace cultures are costing businesses their best people• Why wellbeing and performance are not separate - and the leaders who still haven't figured that outWhether you're a founder working 18-hour days, an executive climbing the ladder, or a leader who takes pride in running hard - this episode will challenge how you think about energy, recovery, and what it truly means to perform.