What if your doctor told you, “Your life as you know it is over”? Would you give up—or fight back?

In this episode of The Influence Gap, Bernadette McClelland sits down with three-time Paralympic gold medalist Carol Cooke, whose journey from devastating MS diagnosis to the top of the Paralympic podium is nothing short of incredible.

Carol Cooke reveals the mindset shifts, resilience lessons, and “pivot points” that shaped her path from law enforcement in Canada to becoming one of Australia’s most decorated athletes—at an age where most would have given up. Packed with practical wisdom for business leaders and high-performers, this episode highlights the power of communication, contribution, and embracing the unknown.

Whether you're an elite competitor, a sales leader, or simply facing your own crossroads, Carol Cooke will inspire you to rethink what’s possible and see the “gap” not as a setback, but as a gift.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Welcome and introduction

01:18 Carol Cooke’s sporting achievements

02:19 The Tokyo silver medal—perspective at age 60

03:25 Carol Cooke’s background and law enforcement career

04:48 MS diagnosis and the life-changing doctor’s visit

09:09 Processing the diagnosis: support and survival mode

11:09 On identity shifts, resilience, and reinvention

13:52 Transitioning from swimming to rowing to cycling

17:29 How leaders miss out on opportunities

18:50 The power (and failure) of communication in leadership

19:17 What separates elite performers from elite influencers

21:48 Contribution and generosity in high performance

24:14 Living organizational values

26:21 The “influence gap” and living through change

28:32 Choosing between “need” and “want”

32:46 Rapid fire—commitment, gratitude, and leadership

34:44 Carol Cooke’s books and how to connect

36:15 Reflections and wrap-up