The Inside Edge Project

What does it really take to thrive when the stakes are high?Join hosts Bhavi Devchand and Ananya Upendran as they sit down with cricket sensation Jemimah Rodrigues for an honest and insightful conversation about the person behind the performance.With the spotlight firmly on during a World Cup, Jemimah shares her experiences navigating anxiety, expectations and the emotional demands of elite sport. From knowing when to step back to finding her way back to joy, she explores what it means to stay connected to yourself when the outside world is demanding more.Together, we unpack some of the assumptions we hold about high performance and discover why sometimes the greatest step forward is knowing when to let go.In this conversation, we explore:The person behind the performance: Jemimah's journey with anxiety, vulnerability and learning to be honest about what is happening beneath the surface.The power of stepping back: Why taking a break isn't a sign of weakness, but can be essential to rediscovering perspective, clarity and enjoyment.Beyond individual talent: Jemimah's experiences with the Delhi Capitals and the importance of creating environments where people feel valued, included and able to be themselves.Finding freedom in the spotlight: Navigating expectations, external noise and the pressure to deliver while staying connected to what makes you who you are.The role of joy and connection: Why thriving isn't just about what we do, but how we feel, who we surround ourselves with and the environments we create.At The Inside Edge Project, we believe that the next frontier of performance is within. That thriving isn't about simply getting better at handling pressure, but understanding ourselves, connecting with others and creating the conditions in which our best can emerge.Jemimah's story is a powerful reminder that we don't have to sacrifice our wellbeing to achieve great things. In fact, the two might be far more connected than we think.Whether you're an athlete, coach, leader or simply navigating the expectations of everyday life, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on what it means to perform, grow and live well.Follow us on InstagramSubscribe on YoutubeContact Bhavi: www.insideedgeproject.com

A former pro footballer turned mentor and mindset coach—whose story proves that nothing is impossible when you choose growth over excuses. Lawrence Shuruma shares arriving in Australia at 11 on a refugee visa as the oldest of seven kids, navigating a new country, a new language, and pressure most people never see. We unpack how street football shaped his grit and flair, how great coaches helped him adapt to structure without losing his edge, and why “scanning” became a turning point.We also talk identity, resilience, and the hidden battles behind performance—financial stress, judgment, and mental load. Lawrence breaks down his framework Reset • Rewire • Rise, and why he teaches “set it and leave it” instead of over-controlling outcomes. If you’re rebuilding after setbacks—athlete or not—this conversation will push you to adjust fast, stay present, and keep moving forward. 00:00 — Intro + why Lawrence 00:44 — Moving to Australia (refugee visa, age 11, oldest of 7) 03:54 — School + language + age/passport issues 04:48 — Street football vs structured football (finding a club) 07:22 — Rejection → opportunity (coach sees his talent) 11:38 — Learning “scanning” + adapting to structure 15:21 — Money struggles + unseen pressure on young athletes 20:48 — Handling racism + ownership mindset 24:09 — Purpose shift: from pro dream to coaching/mentoring 29:27 — “Eagle Mentality”: Reset • Rewire • Rise 52:28 — “Set it and leave it” + letting go of control 1:01:17 — Definition of success + closing -------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0g43fpwWuXoJEDtFQpZf8CApple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey. We want to see people stay centred, connected and courageous - especially when it matters most. We blend the latest research with ancient wisdom to transform individuals and teams, so that they can thrive with pressure, not collapse under it. We know that real transformation isn’t just tactical - it’s relational, emotional, human. The Inside Edge is where science meets soul, and tactics meet trust.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Alex Lascu and Aaron Lilly to unpack what really makes training transfer to performance, especially in a sport as complex as cricket. We dive into why “more reps” doesn’t always mean better results, and how designing sessions that feel like the game (pressure, intention, problem-solving) can change everything.Alex breaks down key learning principles and explains why training should challenge you with realistic conditions - not just perfect reps. Aaron shares the story behind creating the Swinga Ball, why players avoid discomfort in nets, and how competitive, game-like constraints can make training both more effective and more enjoyable.The conversation also explores mindset shifts in coaching—how to challenge athletes with care, build high expectations with real support, and create environments where players can learn without fear of looking bad. If you’re a player, coach, or someone who wants smarter training that actually shows up on game day, this one’s for you.Swinga CricketDr. Alex Lascu00:00 – Why Working Harder Isn’t Always Better00:38 – Welcome & Guest Introductions01:59 – Alex’s Background & Learning Design04:42 – Aaron’s Coaching Journey & the Swinger Ball07:44 – Training That Mirrors Match Conditions11:38 – Rethinking Fundamentals15:06 – Thinking, Feeling, Acting Under Pressure18:25 – Why Traditional Training Falls Short23:52 – The Reality of Club & State Training26:15 – Learning Through Problem-Solving31:42 – Resistance to Challenge in Training37:41 – You Don’t Have to Feel Good to Perform41:16 – Finding Joy in the Present Moment53:18 – The True Role of the Coach1:02:25 – Final Reflections-------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0g43fpwWuXoJEDtFQpZf8CApple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey. We want to see people stay centred, connected and courageous - especially when it matters most. We blend the latest research with ancient wisdom to transform individuals and teams, so that they can thrive with pressure, not collapse under it. We know that real transformation isn’t just tactical - it’s relational, emotional, human. The Inside Edge is where science meets soul, and tactics meet trust.

 Indian cricketer MD Thirushkamini shares a deeply honest reflection on her journey in elite sport and what success truly means beyond the scoreboard. She looks back on her early years as a prodigy and how her understanding of success evolved through key moments in her career. MD Thirushkamini opens up about the pressure of expectations, the emotional weight of selection setbacks, and how injuries challenged her both physically and mentally. She also speaks about learning to separate her self-worth from runs and results, and how redefining success on her own terms helped her rediscover joy in the game.The conversation explores the importance of team culture, communication, and trust, as well as the need for athletes to have the space to fail, grow, and express themselves. This episode offers a powerful insight into resilience, identity, and personal growth—on and off the field.00:00 – Introduction01:00 – Thirushkamini’s Journey & Achievements04:41 – Redefining Success09:40 – Injury, Comebacks & Selection Setbacks16:20 – Mental Maturity & Letting Go of Self-Blame18:30 – Team Culture & Communication25:40 – Playing Under Pressure31:30 – Mental vs Physical Preparation38:30 – Marriage, Longevity & Breaking Norms48:30 – Final Thoughts & Closing Reflections-------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0g43fpwWuXoJEDtFQpZf8CApple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey. We want to see people stay centred, connected and courageous - especially when it matters most. We blend the latest research with ancient wisdom to transform individuals and teams, so that they can thrive with pressure, not collapse under it. We know that real transformation isn’t just tactical - it’s relational, emotional, human. The Inside Edge is where science meets soul, and tactics meet trust.

How do you perform when the world is watching, yet your own doubts are louder than the crowd?When the pressure peaked, Jemimah Rodrigues didn’t fight it  - she surrendered to it. In this episode, we dive into one of the most remarkable innings in World Cup history, unpacking the inner tools that helped her perform when everything was on the line. Through stillness, surrender, and support, Jemimah found her way back to presence. A brilliant reminder that the best performances don’t come from trying harder, but from allowing what’s already within to come through.00:00 The Power of Vulnerability in Sports02:56 Navigating Internal and External Pressures06:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery08:49 Finding Purpose Beyond Performance11:57 The Role of Stillness and Surrender14:52 Support Systems in High-Pressure Environments18:10 The Importance of Being Present20:56 Coaching and Mentoring: The Art of Listening28:37 The Emotional Backbone of Team Dynamics32:05 Unity and Team Culture in High-Pressure Situations34:29 The Power of Vulnerability and Trust Among Teammates38:51 The Importance of Empathy and Support in Performance44:39 Letting Go: Trusting the Process in High-Stakes Moments52:07 Resilience in the Face of Adversity-------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0g43fpwWuXoJEDtFQpZf8CApple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey. We want to see people stay centred, connected and courageous - especially when it matters most. We blend the latest research with ancient wisdom to transform individuals and teams, so that they can thrive with pressure, not collapse under it. We know that real transformation isn’t just tactical - it’s relational, emotional, human. The Inside Edge is where science meets soul, and tactics meet trust.

Gouhar Sultana, a renowned Indian left-arm orthodox spinner. Gouher has had an impressive career, spanning over two decades and marked by over 500 wickets across various formats. Beyond the statistics, the podcast explores her personal journey, highlighting her initial motivation to support her family, the pressure of transitioning to international cricket, and the crucial role of self-belief in overcoming challenges.Gouhar candidly discusses her struggles with accepting failure and the mental health challenges she faced after being dropped from the Indian team, including seeking professional help to cope. A significant part of the conversation centers on her approach to cricket, emphasizing preparation, the importance of focusing on the process rather than solely on outcomes, and her dedication to mentoring younger players. Humility, resilience, hard work, giving back. An inspiration for all. -------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0g43fpwWuXoJEDtFQpZf8CApple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey. We want to see people stay centred, connected and courageous - especially when it matters most. We blend the latest research with ancient wisdom to transform individuals and teams, so that they can thrive with pressure, not collapse under it. We know that real transformation isn’t just tactical - it’s relational, emotional, human. The Inside Edge is where science meets soul, and tactics meet trust.

Indian Olympic sailor Vishnu Saravanan. Vishnu discusses his unique journey, from a multi-sport childhood to dominating national sailing competitions for seven years. He shares his philosophy on high-pressure performance, emphasizing mental training and the importance of present-moment focus. He reveals his appreciation for pressure, attributing his success to a balanced approach combining physical training with mental strategies like meditation. Vishnu also discusses his broader goals: promoting sailing in India, fostering a healthier sporting culture, and leaving a lasting legacy beyond medals. The episode explores the holistic approach to athletic success, emphasizing mental well-being and a deeper purpose beyond competition.-------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0g43fpwWuXoJEDtFQpZf8CApple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey. We want to see people stay centred, connected and courageous - especially when it matters most. We blend the latest research with ancient wisdom to transform individuals and teams, so that they can thrive with pressure, not collapse under it. We know that real transformation isn’t just tactical - it’s relational, emotional, human. The Inside Edge is where science meets soul, and tactics meet trust.

Niranjan Mukundan has faced more challenges than most people encounter in a lifetime. Born with spina bifida and undergoing 19 surgeries, he's not only become a world-class para-swimmer, but also a symbol of hope and perseverance. In this episode of the InsideEdge Podcast, Niranjan shares his journey, revealing the emotional resilience and mental strategies that have propelled him to achieve over 100 international medals. Learn how he navigates external pressures, embraces his emotions, and finds balance in a demanding career.-------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0g43fpwWuXoJEDtFQpZf8CApple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey. We want to see people stay centred, connected and courageous - especially when it matters most. We blend the latest research with ancient wisdom to transform individuals and teams, so that they can thrive with pressure, not collapse under it. We know that real transformation isn’t just tactical - it’s relational, emotional, human. The Inside Edge is where science meets soul, and tactics meet trust.

From India A to quitting altogether. A remarkable story outlining how society's definition of success often results in the complete opposite. However, through following your heart, you can find a deeper purpose of impacting others to have a happier and more fulfilling journey.How your subconscious beliefs about who you are as a person can get in the own way of you being at your best on the fieldThe significant impact a negative environment can have on the performance and wellbeing on a player The dangers of what most people perceive as a ‘high-performance mindset’How Ananya went from being selected for India A to quitting the sport altogetherA great example of ‘your greatest growth comes from your darkest times.’-------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0g43fpwWuXoJEDtFQpZf8CApple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey. We want to see people stay centred, connected and courageous - especially when it matters most. We blend the latest research with ancient wisdom to transform individuals and teams, so that they can thrive with pressure, not collapse under it. We know that real transformation isn’t just tactical - it’s relational, emotional, human. The Inside Edge is where science meets soul, and tactics meet trust.

In this episode we sit down with sought after leadership and culture coach, Shane McCurry. Shane is one of the most passionate people that are driving a significant change in the culture of high performance organisations. He has worked with a range of AFL head coaches, and worked with with Richmond Football Club to help them 'win deep.'Some key highlights include: A simple model you can use to build out your inside edge The importance of winning deep to have both performance and wellbeing How a sense of belonging connects to thriving athletes/employeesEmbracing diversity a competitive advantageHow to challenge authority and have your relationship grow as a resultThe power of storytelling to create social capital -------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2Z2ld4p Apple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insideedgeproject/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/insideedgeproj Seeing sport grow in professionalism has brought so many benefits in the world of high-performance. However, this constant search for the next edge in high performance has led to more analysis, more box-ticking and more distractions than ever before.The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey.-------------------------------- CONNECT --------------------------------Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0g43fpwWuXoJEDtFQpZf8CApple: https://apple.co/3BTAqn9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insideedgeproject LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavi-devchand-85302892/ The Inside Edge Podcast aims to explore how the best in the world navigate all the noise to consistently perform in the most rugged and high-pressure environments. The purpose? To bring back enjoyment, simplicity and connection. To help the next generation live from the inside-out, have the courage to be themselves and simply enjoy the journey. We want to see people stay centred, connected and courageous - especially when it matters most. We blend the latest research with ancient wisdom to transform individuals and teams, so that they can thrive with pressure, not collapse under it. We know that real transformation isn’t just tactical - it’s relational, emotional, human. The Inside Edge is where science meets soul, and tactics meet trust.