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Elite performance psychologist & expert

Michael Caulfield

Unlock high-pressure performance with Michael Caulfield, elite performance psychologist and leadership expert. Michael equips executives and sports professionals with practical psychological frameworks for peak performance under pressure. Trusted consultant for Premier League teams, international cricket, and corporate leaders, with regular appearances on BBC and Sky Sports.

Trusted by Premier League, BBC, Sky Sports

Michael Caulfield

Speaker Biography

Key topics about

  • Performance psychologist for elite athletes and business leaders
  • Former Chief Executive of the Professional Jockeys Association (PJA)
  • Regular contributor to BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC News, and Sky Sports
Michael Caulfield is a registered performance psychologist who works with elite athletes, coaches, and business leaders to simplify the psychology of performing under pressure. His approach strips away jargon to deliver frameworks that actually work when it matters most. Michael spent 15 years as Chief Executive of the Professional Jockeys Association before retraining in psychology, giving him a rare dual perspective on both performance and governance. He has worked across the Barclays Premier League, international cricket, and numerous other sports. As a senior consultant at Sporting Edge, Michael has contributed to a digital library of insights from world-class performers. He also regularly appears on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC News, and Sky Sports. Michael's three decades in professional sport and leadership means he understands the gap between theory and execution. He translates psychological concepts into practical tools that individuals and teams can use immediately, whether in boardrooms or on matchday. His background as both practitioner and executive allows him to address performance challenges from multiple angles, making his guidance relevant across competitive environments. Audiences leave Michael's sessions with specific techniques for managing pressure and a clearer understanding of what drives performance when stakes are high. His delivery combines clarity with humour, making complex ideas accessible without oversimplifying them. Book Michael to equip your team with psychology that works in real competitive situations, not just in theory.

Michael's Showreel and Videos

Topics, Sessions and Talks

High Performance
Effective Leadership
Michael Caulfield explores how decency and good character form the bedrock of effective leadership, far outweighing technical skills or data. He reflects on the importance of experience and how calm, decisive leadership fosters trust. Attendees will learn how to lead with integrity and build teams based on respect and wisdom.
Team Building
Michael Caulfield believes the best teams are composed of diverse experiences and perspectives. He stresses that meaningful connections are rooted in simplicity, not complexity, and emphasises the importance of bringing people together while valuing everyone's contributions. Attendees will learn how to build teams that are skilled and united in purpose and vision.
Communication
Michael Caulfield believes that authentic communication doesn’t require formal settings. Whether it’s a conversation on a park bench (with a dog in tow) or a casual walk, meaningful exchanges are built on simplicity. Attendees will learn how to improve communication by being present, genuine, and open, fostering deeper trust in their relationships.
Dealing With Pressure
Michael Caulfield presents a candid talk on managing crises; while we all might feel "completely *****ed" at times, a slow and thoughtful approach is the key to overcoming challenges. Attendees will learn practical strategies for maintaining composure and making intelligent decisions under pressure.

Why We Recommend Booking Michael

Michael Caulfield brings three decades of elite sport leadership combined with registered psychology expertise to deliver pressure management techniques that your team can use immediately. His unique background as both former CEO and practising psychologist means he bridges the gap between academic theory and real-world application, offering practical solutions tested in Premier League football and international cricket. Secure Michael now to transform how your organisation performs when the stakes are highest.

Check Michael's availability

Trusted by Premier League, BBC, Sky Sports

Testimonials

Michael is one of the most inspiring people I've met in 32 years in the sports media: a man of outstanding skill, integrity and insight. He understands the human element that underpins performance and always places the person first in his work.

Paul Hayward, Chief Sports Writer

Chief Sports Writer, The Telegraph

When life gets tough, when challenges become too stressful to manage or a solution seems impossible to find, Corky is the man to turn to. With a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed, he can help bring out the best in you and your team.

Clare Balding

OBE

If you only want science, data and measures, look elsewhere. If you want someone who can make sense of all the clutter that exists in the minds of all athletes and coaches and help them focus on performance, then give Mike a ring.

Gareth Southgate OBE

frequently asked questions

Got Questions About Booking a Speaker?

What topics does Michael Caulfield specialise in?
Michael Caulfield specialises in discussing high performance, effective leadership, team building and more.
What is Michael Caulfield's speaking style like?
Michael delivers with clarity, empathy, and insight, focusing on the human side of performance. He simplifies complex ideas, inspires trust, and helps individuals and teams achieve their best under pressure.
Does Michael Caulfield offer virtual speaking engagements?
Yes, Michael Caulfield offers virtual speaker bookings for webinars, online conferences, and remote or distributed team engagements.
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