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Have you ever witnessed the raw determination of an athlete as they pivot from fierce competition on the field to the cutthroat arena of business? That's the gripping tale Dylan, our fearless guest, unfolds. His journey from a tenacious rugby player to an innovative entrepreneur at the helm of Neo eX is nothing short of inspiring. As he recounts the meticulous discipline he carried from the rugby pitch to the tech world, you can't help but be drawn into the parallels between scoring tries and navigating the startup ecosystem. Dylan's narrative is more than just a story of career transition; it's a playbook on harnessing the grit of sports for business success.

Through the lens of Dylan's multifaceted life, we peel back the layers of what it means to balance diverse passions - rugby, acting, and academics - and still find your footing. The conversation takes us on an exciting sprint through his early days of juggling multiple roles, the serendipitous scholarship that led him to the professional rugby fields of Europe, and the mentors who steered his course. His tale is a testament to the idea that the path less traveled, while fraught with hard choices and sacrifices, can lead to enriching life experiences that shape us beyond our expectations.

But what comes after the final whistle blows on a sports career? For Dylan, it was a period of introspection and a quest for meaningful engagement, culminating in the creation of Neo eX. Wearing the dual hats of founder and CEO, he tackles the challenges of chronic pain and identity loss with the same vigor once reserved for opponents on the rugby field. His story isn't just about personal reinvention; it's a masterclass in setting micro-goals and fostering community through technology. So, lace up your boots, and prepare to be moved by a saga of resilience and rebirth in the tech arena.

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out https://www.2ndwind.io/

Connect with Dylan:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylgray/
Website: https://www.neoex.io/

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This episode features a former rugby player turned legal recruiter, whose story of adaptability and resilience captivates from the onset. Clint's  odyssey from the grassy fields to the corporate towers is a rollercoaster of triumphs, setbacks, and the relentless pursuit of new horizons. He takes us through his journey, discussing the blend of mental and physical grit needed to balance a landscaping job with his Super Rugby dreams, and the cultural leap from France to Dubai that tested his ability to thrive in unfamiliar territory.

Clint's pivot into the corporate realm is as inspiring as it is instructive, proving that the spirit of sportsmanship – teamwork, resilience, and communication – can indeed pave the way for triumph in new arenas. Through his narrative, we're reminded of the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and leveraging one's past to forge a bright future.

Tune in to learn more about:

• Clint’s experience of the differences in the game between the northern and southern hemispheres and what he loved most about them
• The mental strain that accompanied the end of his rugby career and the first steps he took for a smooth transition post-COVID
• The role exploration played in his discovery of what he fits in during his after-sports life
• How he got into sales and recruitment and the interrelation between sports culture and work culture
• The role math has had in his role today in the sales and recruitment arena
• Why investing your efforts in cultivating a professional presence on social media platforms such as LinkedIn is of significance 

… and so much more! 

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io 

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clinteadie/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clinteadie

X: https://x.com/ClintEadie 

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When  Caragh McMurtry, a former Olympic rower for Team GB, shares her tale, it's not your typical sports saga. Our episode zooms in on her dual identity as an elite athlete and a neurodiversity advocate. Caragh's experiences highlight the untapped brilliance of neurodivergent athletes and the pressing need for a shift in the sports world's approach to these exceptional minds. Her journey, marked by both remarkable triumphs and deeply personal struggles, paints a vivid picture of the athletic landscape through a neurodivergent lens, challenging listeners to rethink their views on mental health and inclusivity in high-stakes competition.

This episode is a clarion call to coaches, athletes, and sports enthusiasts alike, illuminating the path to a new chapter in 's life and possibly for many others like her. Post-retirement, she transforms adversity into advocacy, leveraging her story to ignite change and inspire others who are navigating the tricky waters of identity beyond their sports careers. As you connect with Caragh's relentless drive and dedication to making a difference, prepare to be moved and motivated by the transformative power of embracing neurodiversity in the competitive arena.

Tune in to learn more about:

- Her impactful wave through neurodiverse charities 

- Gaps in the sports sector around the understanding, supporting, and proper inclusion of neurodiverse athletes and those facing mental health problems 

- The long period of athletes masking up their differences till retirement due to the ongoing stigma and discrimination against neurodiverse athletes 

- Challenges she faced throughout her sporting journey as a neurodivergent athlete before getting the proper diagnosis 

- How she constantly leaned on her resilience for a successful sporting career 

- The real journey of learning about herself after getting the proper diagnosis 

- The stigma and discrimination she still faced as steps were made to make an inclusive sporting environment 

- Why sports clubs, athletes, and supporters should wholeheartedly embrace diversity

- Nuggets of wisdom for young and retiring athletes 

… and so much more! 

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io 

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Ever wondered about the life beyond the roar of the stadium for athletes? Barry Squires, a former university-level footballer turned sports leader, sits down with us to navigate that very transition. From the humble beginnings at AFC Bournemouth's academy to the strategic world of university sports administration, Barry reveals the complexities behind the pivotal decisions that shape careers post-athletics. His insights into the balance of education and competitive sport provide a fresh perspective on the real-life challenges and opportunities athletes encounter when stepping off the pitch and into the boardroom.

Barry's story is more than just a tale of athletic prowess; it's a roadmap for leveraging one's passion for sports into a successful career. He shares his experience of playing semi-professional football while keeping his academic goals in sight, the summers spent coaching in the U.S., and the mentorship that catalyzed his growth. His approach to life beyond the game—grounded in seizing opportunities for learning and development—underscores the importance of adaptability for athletes looking to make their mark in sports leadership.

Tune in to learn more about:
- How he is raising the aspirations and exploration of young athletes in areas unknown to them beforehand 
- Sports for Barry in his childhood and higher academic life
- Informative look into the vast opportunities that they offer students whilst in their - undergraduate and postgraduate academic journey
- How he kept sports in his life when the realization of not becoming a pro footballer sunk in
- The strategic steps Barry took to prolong sports in his life during his post University period
- Why you should continuously aim to build your value for professional development
- His passion for adding value to young athletes through a multi-sports approach
- How his definition of success evolved and matured from being a Young player to a seasoned sports coach
- Aspects of his history that he would change
- The overlooked roles and fulfillment an individual can have by being in the background of the sports world
- The former roles of a sports coach and how they are evolving
…and so much more!

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io 

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When Calum Giles, a double Olympic hockey player, steps into our studio, he brings with him a narrative that goes beyond the hockey field. His personal battles and victories over ADHD are as captivating as his athletic accomplishments. Understanding his journey helps us unravel the tight weave between neurodiversity and peak performance. Calum doesn't shy away from discussing the role of mentors in recognizing and nurturing the potential of young athletes, a perspective that's shaped his roles as director of junior coaching at Blackheart and Altamium’s Hockey Club and managing director of Stickwise Hockey Camps.

In this episode, Ryan and Calum discuss:
- The connection between neurodiversity and peak athletic performance through Calum's journey.
- The role of mentors in recognizing and nurturing the potential of young athletes.
-  How the schooling system impacts individuals with ADHD and their career paths, using Calum's academic journey as an example.
- Cognitive differences bring flair and creativity in sports, drawing parallels with the Dutch style of football.
- Calum's commitment to shaping a more inclusive and understanding approach to learning and coaching in education and sports.
- The rarely explored topic of life after sports, including financial challenges athletes face and the importance of aligning one's career with passions.
- Calum's personal story as a powerful reminder that success, in various forms, is achievable with hard work, fairness, and a commitment to one's true self.

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io 

Links:

Website:http://www.stickwise.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calum-giles- 

Instagram:https://instagram.com/stickwise?igshid=

X: https://x.com/CalumGiles?s= 

Resources:

Atomic Habits: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299

Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim Grover: https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Unstoppable-Tim-S-Grover/dp/147671420 

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In this episode, Ryan speaks to James Beeston, a former full-time footballer who successfully navigated a complex journey. In their riveting discussion, James recounts his journey from being scouted at the tender age of six, through his time at a youth academy, to the founding of Bisterra, his thriving supplemental soccer training company.

In 2010 James was rejected from Port Vale Football Club where he was an LFE apprentice, a team he had ardently supported for almost his entire life. Rather than succumbing to this heartbreak, he saw it as a redirection to something greater. Realizing his untapped potential lying in training, he teamed up with his then roommate Mike, started as a club coach but felt as though team coaching wasn't maximizing a player's full potential, hence opting for individual training. Fast forward to today, the company operates in six different states. 

Tune in to learn more about:

- A sneak peek into the dynamic world of his brainchild, Besteera

- The sacrifices and trade offs he encountered as he grew in his sporting adventure

- Why did he switch his euphoria of apprenticeship to getting a hit of the reality of his dream 

- The recollection of his first heartbreak in sports and how it was delivered to him

- What he had to change in his renewed course to be a professional footballer

- The profound benefits of maintaining your discipline and professionalism in whatever environment you're in

- The positive impact his partner Mike has brought  not only to the business but in James’s life too

- How James continuously supplements his learning in terms of business management and personal improvement

- Valuable gems derived from the rejection that laid the foundation to a successful business 

… and so much more! 

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io  

Links:

Website: http://www.beesterasoccertraining.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesbeestera 

X: https://x.com/Beestera_James?s=20 

TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZM6RS7Fjq/ 

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Have you ever wondered about the challenges and sacrifices an athlete has to make to pursue their dreams? Listen in for a glimpse into the world of Idan Kugel, a former professional football player from Israel who transitioned into the military. He shares his unique journey of trying to balance his love for football and the responsibility of military service, and the tough choices he had to make under his father’s influence. His story is an intriguing exploration of the evolution of professionalism in football in Israel, a testament to his unwavering dedication and the personal connection he shares with his older brother, who also served in the army.

Tune in to learn more about:

- His sporting career and the hurdles strewn along his path

- The demotivating dynamics of Israel’s football structure during his formative years

- Leaving football for the army and the mental conflicts that arose with this decision

- A glimpse into the military way of life for rookies and his evolution during his three transformative years in the army 

- Unravelling the grip of football addiction and identity 

- Traits from his sporting career that served him as a combat soldier and what he had to leave behind

- If he foresaw the trajectory of his post military service period

- Idan’s affinity for struggle and how it energizes and sustains his drive

- His triumphant return to sports by impacting the lives of young athletes 

- Key traits that determine the winning mentality echoing from his battlefield and sports journey 

… and so much more!

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io 

Links:

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/idan-kugel-620562234

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Have you ever wondered how athletes transition to "real world" careers after their sporting journey ends? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Olivia King, the former University of Victoria swimmer who switched gears to rowing and made it onto the Canadian national team. Olivia shares her candid story of balancing academics and competitive sports during her university years, the shift from swimming to rowing, and the unique challenges she conquered as the youngest member of the national team.

Olivia's tale of determination and resilience is nothing short of awe-inspiring. She didn't make the national team in 2016, but instead of letting this setback break her, she used it as fuel. In 2017, she proved her mettle and earned her place back on the team. Olivia helps us understand that setbacks aren't failures, but essential stepping stones in our journey. She exemplifies that resilience is not just about returning to the battlefield, but also about learning, growing and moving forward with even more vigor.

But Olivia's story doesn't end at the finishing line. Post her sports career, she took on a new challenge - the corporate world. From working at the local YMCA to joining the police force, Olivia explored myriad opportunities before finding her niche in business. She applies the same discipline and perseverance she learned as an athlete to her corporate career and encourages us all to view transitions as opportunities for growth and discovery. Listen in, as Olivia's journey is sure to resonate with every athlete, every professional, and anyone who loves a tale of resilience and personal growth.

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io  

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What happens when a former professional American footballer swaps the field for the corporate world? Monica Livingston, a former professional American footballer who has on and off the field represented DC Divas, a professional Women's tackle football team. She is also a corporate trainer, culture coach, two-time winner of Comcast SportsNet ‘Funniest Sports Celebrity’ in Washington, And the founder and host of her international podcast The Huddle with Mo and Lo, a hilarious and interactive show that takes an inside look at athletes huddling up the corporate landscape. 

After sustaining a devastating ankle injury that marked the end of her sports career, Monica determined to preserve the closeness with her sports family, took it upon herself to represent them, sharing her story of resilience and power in mindset and confidence, and even birthed a pseudo women's sports company. She has also redefined herself as an entrepreneur in the world of education, sports management, and corporate training using humor to educate, engage, and inspire.

Tune in to learn more about:

- The evolving landscape of football accessibility, sponsorship, and funding to women during her time vs now 
- How she confidently went to the bar and carved out her sponsorship deal
- The wellsprings of her courage and resilience during the post-injury and surgery period 
- What changed for her after injury and the hardest part of this transformative journey 
- Insights from how she has built her career, and strengthens the culture and mindset of elite athletes
- How she is not only serving athletes but making expansive influence beyond her sports family 
- What drives her impactful contributions
- Insights to athletes navigating the trajectories to their next pinnacle of success 
… and so much more! 

Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out

www.2ndwind.io 

Links:

Website: https://www.monicadlivingston.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicalivingston
Instagram: https://instagram.com/livingston3636?ig
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-huddle-with-mo-and-lo/