Steve Ingham, performance scientists, leader and author, explores the science, art, purpose and origins of high-performance. Steve interviews and discusses these concepts with the people who have been there and done it, whether it’s achieving at the highest level, been the driving force in making remarkable performance happen or those who have explored and researched aspects of human performance in real-depth.
All content for Supporting Champions is the property of Steve Ingham and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Steve Ingham, performance scientists, leader and author, explores the science, art, purpose and origins of high-performance. Steve interviews and discusses these concepts with the people who have been there and done it, whether it’s achieving at the highest level, been the driving force in making remarkable performance happen or those who have explored and researched aspects of human performance in real-depth.
In this episode of the Supporting Champions Podcast, I’m joined by author, journalist, and endurance expert Alex Hutchinson to discuss his latest book, The Explorer’s Gene. This conversation dives into the why behind human exploration — what drives us to seek the unknown, how our genetics shape our urge to push boundaries, and what this means for athletes, adventurers, and everyday decision-makers alike.
We explore the intersection of science, adventure, and personal growth, looking at everything from the dopamine receptor gene and novelty-seeking, to the hero’s journey and the paradox of effort. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or someone curious about what makes humans tick, there’s something here for you.
🧠 Key Takeaways:
Exploration is a deep-rooted human trait shaped by both genetics and environment
The dopamine receptor gene is linked to novelty-seeking behaviour
Endurance sports are a microcosm for understanding exploration and risk
Balancing exploration (trying new things) and exploitation (refining skills) is vital
The free energy principle helps explain our drive to minimize surprise and seek reward
Effort and struggle add meaning to experience
Exploration connects us more deeply to our environment and ourselves
The hero’s journey offers a compelling metaphor for personal growth
Ethical questions persist around doping and the boundaries of performance
📚 Buy Alex Hutchinson’s new book, The Explorer’s Gene:👉 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Explorers-Gene-Challenges-Flavors-Blank/dp/0063269767/
🎓 Advance your performance career with Supporting Champions Courses:Use code SC10 for 10% off all online courses👉 https://www.supportingchampions.co.uk/onlinecourse/#courses
⏱ Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Alex Hutchinson03:08 – Journey from Physics to Endurance Journalism06:25 – The Intersection of Science and Endurance Sports10:20 – Lessons from Journalism School14:17 – The Importance of Audience in Science Communication18:38 – Navigating Scientific Research and Its Implications23:36 – Evolving Perspectives on Ergogenic Aids29:43 – The Role of Context in Athletic Performance32:33 – Exploring 'The Explorer's Gene'36:05 – Personal Connections to Endurance38:47 – The Complexity of Exploration41:35 – The Hero's Journey in Endurance44:47 – The Rhythm of Explore and Exploit52:58 – Genetics of Exploration56:18 – The Explorer's Gene: An Introduction01:01:07 – Migration Patterns and Genetic Influence01:08:20 – Risk-Taking and Elite Athletes01:12:02 – The Free Energy Principle Explained01:18:30 – The Effort Paradox and Meaning in Struggle01:24:39 – The Case Against Doping in Sports01:31:17 – Exploration and the Meaning of Sport
Thanks for tuning in — don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts below. Let’s keep exploring what makes us human.
#SupportingChampions #AlexHutchinson #ExplorersGene #HumanPerformance #Endurance #SportsScience #FreeEnergyPrinciple #HeroJourney #SteveIngham #Dopamine #RiskTaking #PersonalGrowth #Adventure
Supporting Champions
Steve Ingham, performance scientists, leader and author, explores the science, art, purpose and origins of high-performance. Steve interviews and discusses these concepts with the people who have been there and done it, whether it’s achieving at the highest level, been the driving force in making remarkable performance happen or those who have explored and researched aspects of human performance in real-depth.
