Get in touch;

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conorwalsh1995/

YouTube; https://www.youtube.com/@TheLowdownPod

Email: cwalsh95@outlook.ie

In this episode, we sit down with Cristina Fink, former Olympic athlete and performance psychologist, to explore what it really takes to perform at a high level — not just in sport, but in life. Drawing from her experience competing on the world’s biggest stage in Seoul 1988 and Barcelona 1992 and working with elite performers, Cristina shares how mindset, resilience, and identity shape sustainable success.

We dive into pressure, setbacks, leadership, and mental health, unpacking practical tools listeners can use immediately. This conversation is about moving beyond outcomes and redefining what high performance and fulfillment actually look like. Delving into modern day leadership Cristina explains more as to how the best lead from a foundation of "proactive resilience".

Listen to find out more including;

- How her Olympic journey paved the way for her transition into performance psychologist?

- Why separates world class performers from the rest?

- What a deliberate practice of mental skills looks like?

- Practical tools for players to stay in the present.

- Managing expectations and the role they play at the elite level.

Timestamps;

00:00 - 05:42 - Olympics

05:43 - 14:58 - Psychology

14:59 - 24:30 - Awareness

24:31 - 39:11 - Expectations

39:12 - 47:25 - Parents

47:26 - 55:12 - Leadership

Get in touch;

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conorwalsh1995/

YouTube; https://www.youtube.com/@TheLowdownPod

Email: cwalsh95@outlook.ie

In this episode, we sit down with Martin Foyston whose journey into football leadership didn’t start on the pitch—but in film studies. From early days using analysis as a competitive edge, to learning under elite mentors like Roy Hodgson, to taking bold career risks that led to over a decade as a head coach in Scandinavia, this conversation explores the human side of modern coaching.

We dive into the highs of historic promotions, the importance of culture when success arrives, and the lows that come with being sacked. Now, for the first time in a while, Martin has stepped away from the day-to-day grind of the field—offering rare perspective, honesty, and reflection on how the game (and the person coaching it) has evolved.

A thoughtful, candid conversation about growth, resilience, and what truly shapes a coach over time. A must listen.

Listen to find out more including;

- Utilizing analysis as a competitive advantage.

- Why Martin chases the feeling of discomfort?

- What powerful role models taught Martin about leadership and development?

- How Scandinavia has shaped Martin as a coach and person?

- Every gamble each assistant coach must eventually make.

Timestamps;

00:00 - 10:39 - Intro

10:40 - 25:32 - Fulham

25:33 - 34:22 - Analysis

34:23 - 45:16 - Scandinavia

45:17 - 53:06 - Osters

53:07 - 1:05:42 - Culture

1:05:43 - 1:23:19 - Reflections

Get in touch;

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conorwalsh1995/

YouTube; https://www.youtube.com/@TheLowdownPod

Email: cwalsh95@outlook.ie