Peak Performance for Soccer Podcast

In this guest episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex sits down with Pelly for an honest and insightful conversation around performance, mindset, and the realities of working within football environments. The discussion explores the day-to-day demands of high-performance settings, from managing physical preparation and recovery to navigating pressure, expectations, and consistency over time. Pelly shares his perspective on what it takes to sustain performance, highlighting the importance of habits, routines, and staying prepared regardless of circumstances. A key theme throughout the episode is mindset — including how to deal with setbacks, maintain focus, and continue progressing in challenging environments. The conversation also touches on the importance of strong relationships with staff, clear communication, and creating environments where individuals can perform at their best. This episode provides practical insights into the human side of performance — where preparation, behaviour, and mindset all come together to support long-term development. 

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex sits down with Brett Singer, one of the most respected sports dietitians in the United States and a long-time leader in applied performance nutrition. Brett has spent 15 years working across hospitals, high-performance centers, and multiple MLS clubs — including the Houston Dynamo, Austin FC, Atlanta United (consulting), and now the Seattle Sounders.Brett shares his journey from clinical dietetics to elite sport, including his mentorship of young practitioners through a unique residency program that has produced multiple MLS and NWSL dietitians. He and Alex explore the real-world challenges of nutrition delivery in Major League Soccer: navigating limited staffing, collaborating remotely, communicating with performance and medical teams, and balancing athlete education with the practical constraints of the league.The discussion also dives deep into travel nutrition, cross-country time-zone management, post-match fueling on charter flights, and how to maintain consistency on the road when hotel food, delivery errors, and logistical variables threaten performance routines.Brett also gives his perspective on overrated vs underrated supplements, what truly matters on matchday, and why carbohydrates remain one of the most powerful and overlooked performance tools in the game.A highly practical, honest conversation about implementing nutrition in the messy, fast-moving world of modern football.

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex is joined by António Pedro Mendes, Head of Nutrition at Sporting Clube de Portugal. António shares his unique journey through European and Middle Eastern football, from FC Paços de Ferreira and FC Porto to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, before leading one of the world’s largest and most structured nutrition departments at Sporting CP.The discussion explores how nutrition supports long-term player development, the practical challenges of implementing daily habits, and the importance of cultural context when working across countries and environments. António dives into how he collaborates with chefs, coaches, and performance staff, and why informal conversations often create more meaningful behaviour change than formal presentations.He also breaks down his evidence-based approach to supplements, the role of placebo, and why flexibility and consistency matter more than perfect nutrient timing.This episode is packed with practical insights into the human side of applied sports nutrition — and how elite environments use food, communication, and education to drive performance.

In this special guest episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex sits down with U.S. soccer legend DaMarcus Beasley. The only American to play in four consecutive World Cups, Beasley reflects on a career that spanned MLS, the Eredivisie, Premier League, Scottish Premiership, Bundesliga, and Liga MX. He shares candid insights into how performance practices evolved across different cultures, his journey from avoiding the gym to embracing individualized preparation, and the injuries that shaped his outlook on longevity. Beasley also opens up about his biggest career highlights, toughest setbacks, and his post-retirement role building Fort Wayne FC. This is a conversation packed with lessons from one of the game’s most enduring figures. 

In this recap of Chapter 7: Wearable Technology, Alex and Adam reflect on the key insights from Josh Rice (Tottenham Hotspur) and Joel Carter (Crystal Palace FC) — two practitioners redefining how data is applied inside elite football environments.They explore how wearable technology has evolved beyond tracking numbers — becoming a vital communication and decision-making tool. From GPS and heart-rate data to acceleration profiling and live session feedback, the discussion highlights how practitioners use technology to enhance performance, not restrict it.The three pillars — periodisation, fitness change, and injury risk — frame the conversation, while Joel’s developmental focus shows how wearable data can bridge the gap between science and coaching. Together, their insights demonstrate how context, collaboration, and clarity transform raw data into meaningful performance strategies.

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex is joined by Joel Carter, Head of PDP Development at Crystal Palace FC. Joel shares his journey from Australia to the Premier League, with stops across India’s national team setup and Millwall FC along the way. The conversation explores how wearable technology, monitoring systems, and data-driven insights can elevate player development and training design. Joel discusses how acceleration and deceleration profiling influence session planning, how live data informs coaching decisions, and why context and communication are more important than the numbers themselves. It’s a deep dive into the evolving landscape of player development and applied sports science at the elite level. 

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex sits down with Josh Rice, Head of Academy Sports Science and Nutrition at Tottenham Hotspur. Josh shares his journey across Everton, Liverpool, and Spurs, reflecting on his evolution from intern to department leader. The discussion dives into wearable technology — from GPS and heart rate integration to the three pillars of periodisation, injury risk, and fitness development. Josh explains how data informs daily training, how to balance internal and external load, and the importance of communication so that sports scientists are seen as performance enhancers, not limiters. This episode blends practical insights, applied research, and real-world examples from one of the Premier League’s top academies. 

In this recap episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex and Adam reflect on Chapter 6: Player Monitoring & Practical Application, featuring insights from Lewis MacMillan (Fulham FC) and Lorcán Mason (PhD researcher). Together, they break down how to balance internal and external load, integrate subjective and objective data, and make fast, informed decisions in real-world environments. The discussion explores the “dose and response” model, managing injury risk through Fulham’s ‘Eyes On’ period, and applying monitoring principles in both high- and low-resource settings. Alex and Adam also highlight the importance of communication, critical decision-making, and the art of interpreting data with a coach’s touch.

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex is joined by Lorcán Mason, a PhD researcher and performance practitioner from Ireland. Lorcán shares his journey across Shamrock Rovers, Dundalk, and Finn Harps, reflecting on the challenges of being a “one-man department” in smaller clubs. The conversation explores practical monitoring tools like wellness questionnaires and session RPE, how to apply low-resource strategies effectively, and the importance of contextualizing data through conversations with athletes. Lorcán also discusses periodisation in congested schedules, triangulating data points, and why communication and trust matter as much as the metrics themselves. 

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex is joined by Lewis MacMillan, Head of Player Insights at Fulham FC. Lewis shares his journey from internships at West Ham to leading performance data and monitoring at a Premier League club. The discussion explores how Fulham integrates internal and external load metrics, manages injury risk with their “Eyes On” period, and balances subjective vs objective data in daily decision-making. Lewis also highlights the evolving role of ACWR, interdisciplinary collaboration with analysts, and the practical tools that truly make a difference in player availability and performance. 

In this recap episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex and Adam wrap up the Conditioning chapter with insights from Mark Piros-Read (Wolves) and Dr. Darren Burgess (Adelaide Crows, ex-Liverpool & Arsenal). They break down three key approaches to conditioning—isolated, hybrid, and integrated—and explore how to adapt training to a coach’s tactical philosophy. The discussion covers managing the “gray zone” for non-starters, balancing intensity with tactical execution, and why consistent, simple programming often beats complexity. Communication and buy-in emerge as the true drivers of effective conditioning. 

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex is joined by Dr. Darren Burgess, one of the most experienced performance leaders in world sport. With over 27 years across football and AFL, Darren reflects on his journey from Parramatta Power to the Socceroos, Liverpool, Arsenal, and now Adelaide Crows. He shares conditioning lessons from before the GPS era, how to design warm-ups with purpose, the role of small- and large-sided games, and why freshness always beats fatigue. Darren also provides candid insights into coach communication, running without the ball, and the timeless truths of human performance. 

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex is joined by Mark Piros-Read, Head of Physical Performance at Wolverhampton Wolves and multiple-time Swedish champion with Malmö FF. Mark shares his journey from England to Sweden and back to the Premier League, offering practical insights from the Conditioning chapter of the book. He breaks down preseason starting points, balancing large- and small-sided games, managing the “gray zone” for non-starters, and tailoring conditioning to different playing styles. Mark also dives into periodisation strategies, recovery models, and the non-negotiables for keeping players ready to perform at a moment’s notice. 

Alex and Adam reflect on the Strength, Power and Injury Prevention chapter of Peak Performance for Soccer, highlighting key lessons from Dr. Mike Beere (Cardiff City), Cody Williamson (Seattle Sounders), and Christian Clarup (VfL Wolfsburg). The discussion emphasizes building strength culture, balancing strength and power, and embedding injury prevention strategies in elite environments. They also stress that recruitment, communication, and simplicity are often as critical as programming itself.

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex sits down with Christian Clarup, Head of Performance at VfL Wolfsburg. Christian reflects on nearly a decade at FC Midtjylland, his success with Sparta Prague, and now leading in one of Europe’s most demanding leagues. He challenges the idea that “stronger is always better,” sharing how he integrates strength, power, and fatigue management into elite football. From building departments from scratch to managing high-pressure Champions League campaigns, Christian offers invaluable insights into what it truly takes to prepare players for the modern game. 

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex chats with Cody Williamson, Head of Fitness at Seattle Sounders. Cody shares his unique path from physio to performance, blending hands-on coaching, injury prevention, and data-led decision-making. He unpacks how chronic issue tracking, integrated MDT systems, and athlete communication are critical to maintaining availability in elite football. 

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex Calder sits down with Dr. Mike Beere, Senior S&C Coach at Cardiff City, to unpack over a decade of insights in one of football’s most volatile environments. Mike shares how he built a lasting strength culture through manager turnover, presents compelling injury data from his PhD, and offers practical programming strategies that have stood the test of time—and 15 head coaches. 

In this recap, Alex Calder and Adam Centofanti explore the evolution of performance testing through the lenses of Jordan Stewart-Mackie and Martin Buchheit. The conversation unpacks the challenge of balancing test sensitivity and specificity, and warns against the pitfalls of “overwatered” sports science—testing everything without understanding anything. The hosts outline clear frameworks for why, what, and how to test, based on athlete cohorts, positional demands, and individual injury histories. 

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex speaks with world-renowned performance expert Martin Buchheit. From PSG to Aspetar, Martin shares insights into elite rehab environments, readiness testing, and how AI is reshaping the role of sports scientists. He also reflects on simplifying performance models, avoiding testing overload, and supporting practitioners through the challenges of high-performance leadership.

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer Podcast, Alex sits down with Jordan Stewart-Mackie to explore a truly global career in sport performance—from UK football to Asia’s academy systems and the NBA’s African talent pipeline. Jordan shares his unique quadrant model for testing, reflects on high- and low-tech approaches to performance, and unpacks insights from his ongoing PhD on wearable technology and data integration. 

In this recap of Chapter 2 of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex and Adam break down key themes from Episodes 4–6. They explore the complex transition from academy to first team, the foundations of physical development, and how communication and long-term planning shape player success. With insights from Berger, Carpels, and Plaskett, this episode highlights what it really takes—physically and mentally—for young players to thrive at the highest level.

In this episode of Peak Performance for Soccer, Alex chats with Nathan Plaskett about his unconventional journey through elite sport—from canoeing and rugby league to English football and tactical performance roles. Nathan unpacks lessons from his time at Derby County, the importance of movement competency in youth development, and how diverse experience shaped his performance philosophy. Plus, he offers practical advice for coaches considering international moves. 

Alex sits down with Thomas Carpels, Head of Performance at Royal Antwerp. Thomas shares his journey from Rangers FC to leading physical development at one of Belgium’s top clubs. He unpacks the complexities of managing young players' workloads, balancing strength training with match congestion, and the psychological toll of high-performance environments. Plus, Thomas reflects on his PhD research and the viral pitch moment that followed Antwerp’s historic title win. 

Alex Berger discusses his career trajectory, starting with six years in the UK working for various football academies, including Millwall, Leicester City, West Brom, and Charlton. He then returned to Australia, working with the Olyroos and Manly United. Berger emphasizes the importance of physical development phases in football, citing England's EPPP guidelines. He highlights the challenges of integrating young players into professional football and the need for continuous physical development. Berger is also pursuing a PhD on training load differences between club and national team environments. He shares his insights on speed development and movement efficiency, advocating for better coaching in these areas.

Alex and Adam discussed the structure and content of Chapter one - the role of the practitioner. Alex and Adam highlighted the structures within soccer environments, focusing on organizational values, multidisciplinary team leadership models, and the transition from generalist to specialist roles. Alex and Adam also discussed the role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in the practice of sports, emphasizing its importance in communication, decision-making, and managing emotions. They explored how practitioners can use EQ to handle challenging situations, such as delivering bad news or managing player emotions.

Alex and Anthony discussed Anthony's journey from personal training to his current role. Anthony shared his experiences, including studying Kinesiology, working as a personal trainer, and coaching soccer. He emphasized the importance of communication and coaching skills in his career. Alex highlighted the unspoken values and challenges in the field, and the need for a traditional progression. Anthony's journey serves as a valuable example for those entering the industry.

Alex Calder interviews Oliver Morgan about his career in football performance. Morgan discusses his journey from an intern at Coventry to his current role as Head of Performance Support at Leicester City, highlighting his tenures at Liverpool and Celtic. He explains the evolution of Academy football, including the Elite Player Performance Plan (Triple P) and the growth of sports science departments. Morgan emphasizes the importance of collaboration, emotional intelligence, and adaptability in football performance. He also touches on his ongoing research into agility and change of direction in football, aiming to develop new testing methods and improve player development.

Alex Calder interviews Anton Matinlauri, a Finnish practitioner with extensive certifications, and currently the Head of Strength and Conditioning at LAFC. Anton discusses his journey from a small club in Colombia to LAFC, highlighting the evolution of his role from a generalist to a more specialized practitioner. He emphasizes the importance of practical knowledge over theoretical, the benefits of having two directors for performance and medicine, and the cultural differences between European and American sports. Anton also shares his current projects, including a master's in tactical analysis, and his personal experiences of living in the U.S., missing Finnish traditions like sauna and ice swimming.

Alex and Adam discussed their experiences as performance coaches in football. They shared their journey of creating a book with over 40 contributors from 21 leagues and 6 continents, which took about two years to complete. The book serves as a guide for new practitioners in the industry. They also discussed their plans to create a podcast, where they will interview the book's contributors to discuss their progress and share new insights.