How to Gain an Executive Edge with Performance Science with Carla Fowler
In this episode of the Voice of Influence podcast, host Andrea interviews Dr. Carla Fowler, an MD, PhD, and elite executive coach. Dr. Fowler shares her journey from the medical field, where she spent nine years earning her MD and PhD, to becoming a leading executive coach. She delves into how her medical training taught her valuable lessons about performance, resilience, and decision-making, which she now uses to help top leaders achieve their goals. The discussion also touches upon the principles of performance science, the importance of mindset and physiological health, and strategies for overcoming resistance both internally and externally. Dr. Fowler’s insights provide a unique perspective on how to integrate high-performance practices with a balanced, human-centered approach.
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Carla Fowler
00:50 Journey from Medicine to Coaching
03:19 Insights on Performance and Decision Making
10:10 Defining Performance Science
13:16 Wellness and High Performance
21:13 Balancing Humanity and Performance
25:31 The Feeling of Missing Something
26:11 The Concept of Agency
26:32 Making a Difference
26:53 Human Desire for Impact
27:55 Setting Objectives and Goals
28:30 Building Skills and Overcoming Challenges
30:13 The Importance of Purpose in Stress
33:46 Empowerment and Shaping the Future
38:11 Overcoming Resistance
41:53 Coaching for High Performance
46:24 Final Thoughts and Advice
Mentioned in this Episode:
Free Download: The 8 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Coach (and how to avoid them!)
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Book Mentioned: The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal
Gain the Executive Edge Through Performance Science
What does it take to reach the highest levels of success? For Dr. Carla Fowler, an elite executive coach with an MD and PhD, the answer lies in the science of performance. After years of rigorous medical training, Carla took an unexpected leap—transitioning from surgery to coaching CEOs, entrepreneurs, and senior leaders.
In our latest Voice of Influence podcast episode, Carla shares how her background in medicine and scientific research shaped her unique approach to high performance. Here’s what we learned:
The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything
Carla’s journey began with a realization: success isn’t just about talent—it’s about understanding how people thrive in high-stakes environments. Through her own experiences in medical school and PhD research, she discovered that the most effective performers weren’t necessarily the smartest, but those who mastered decision-making under pressure and found ways to push through uncertainty.
“If we only think about performance in terms of talent, we’re limited. But if we focus on what we can control—our strategies, our mindset, and our habits—we open up new possibilities.” — Dr. Carla Fowler
Performance Science Is More Than Just Productivity
High performance isn’t about grinding harder—it’s about working smarter. Carla breaks it down into four essential components:
Strategy – Identifying the most impactful actions
Execution – Creating systems that drive consistency
Mindset – Developing resilience and confidence
Physiology – Understanding how stress and recovery impact success
“There are multiple ways to approach any challenge. If one method isn’t working, performance science gives us different angles to attack the problem.” — Dr. Carla Fowler
Reframing Stress as a Tool for Growth
One of the most powerful takeaways from our conversation was Carla’s perspective on stress. Instead of seeing it as something to avoid, she encourages leaders to reframe stress as a sign that something important is at stake. When channeled correctly, stress can be a motivator rather than a barrier.
“Our bodies are built to handle challenges. The key is not to eliminate stress, but to learn how to manage it and use it to our advantage.” — Dr. Carla Fowler
The Key to Sustainable High Performance
For leaders who want to improve their own performance—and that of their teams—Carla emphasizes the importance of psychological safety and a growth-focused culture. Performance conversations should not feel like assessments, but instead opportunities for learning and collaboration.
“We don’t thrive when we feel stagnant. True high performance is about momentum—constantly evolving and refining, not just for achievement, but for meaningful impact.” — Dr. Carla Fowler
If you’re looking to elevate your performance and lead with greater influence, you won’t want to miss this episode.
Listen to the full conversation here: [Insert Podcast Link]
#Leadership #HighPerformance #Mindset #ExecutiveCoaching #VoiceOfInfluence