In this episode of Listenable, hosts Angus O'Loughlin and Dylan Alcott sit down with Sean Pollard, a para snowboarder and shark attack survivor whose story embodies resilience, courage, and reinvention. Sean opens up about the life-changing moment in 2014 when he lost both arms to a shark attack, and how he transformed that trauma into motivation—becoming an elite athlete with his sights set on the Paralympics.

The conversation explores the emotional and physical recovery process, the role of mindset in overcoming adversity, and how Sean found freedom and purpose through snowboarding. It’s an inspiring discussion about identity, adaptability, and redefining what’s possible after loss.

Key Takeaways

• Dylan Alcott hints at a potential comeback to tennis.

• Sean Pollard introduces himself as a para snowboarder.

• Sean lost both arms in a shark attack in 2014.

• He uses a split hook prosthetic for daily activities.

• Sean prefers the hook over an electronic hand for versatility.

• He recalls the traumatic details of the shark attack.

• Sean stresses the power of mindset in recovery.

• He found freedom and purpose through snowboarding.

• Sean is training for the upcoming Paralympics.

• He reflects on how the attack reshaped his identity and outlook on life.

Chapters

00:00 — Introduction and Comeback Discussion
02:01 — Meet Sean Pollard: A Snowboarder’s Journey
05:53 — The Shark Attack Experience
11:51 — Life After the Attack: Adapting to Disability
17:23 — Snowboarding: Finding Freedom on the Slopes
23:30 — Preparing for the Paralympics
29:20 — Reflections on Identity and Life Lessons

 

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