Sport Is Life

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife 

Ready to improve your focus, calm, and consistency in less than 15 minutes a day? 

👉 Learn more about Performance Meditation here: https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation 

Episode Summary: 

If Ian Hawkins were coaching athletes this off-season, he wouldn’t start with tactics or strength training. He’d start with meditation. Not the cross-legged, mountaintop kind, but a practical, high-performance approach that helps athletes quiet the mind, steady the breath, and let the body reset. 

In this episode, Ian breaks down what meditation really is, how it heals the body, sharpens focus, and strengthens emotional control. He shares his own journey from sceptic to believer, revealing how a chance discovery changed the way he trained, coached, and lived. 

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or business leader chasing consistency and calm under pressure, you’ll learn how meditation can become your ultimate performance edge, helping you recover faster, think clearer, and show up at your best every day. 

About the Host:  

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.  

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/ 

Check Me Out On:  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching    

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins   

Theme Music Artist: 

One Day Kings  https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/ 

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information. 

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife

Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership

Episode Summary:

The Brisbane Broncos have shown what real progress looks like: mental strength, clarity of vision, and the discipline to stick to their plan amid outside noise and constant opinions.

In this solo episode, Ian Hawkins breaks down how the Broncos transformed from mid-table finishers to grand-final contenders by trusting their process and staying aligned with their purpose. He explores what we can all learn from their example from building belief and resilience to developing a written plan that keeps you focused on your “why.”

Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or managing your own performance, this episode shows how clarity of mission creates consistency and how sticking to your plan turns potential into progress.

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/

Check Me Out On:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins

Theme Music Artist:

One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife

Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership

Episode Summary:

In this week’s episode, Ian Hawkins and Ben Norris return to unpack one of the wildest weekends in sport. From a record-breaking 314-run innings in Sydney Grade Cricket, featuring 35 sixes in a single knock to Reece Walsh’s electric performance in the NRL Grand Final, this week had everything from domination to redemption.

The boys also dive into the fallout from the AFL and NRL finals, the buzz around the upcoming cricket season, the latest EPL headlines, and the build-up to Bathurst. Along the way, they explore what these moments reveal about composure, belief, and seizing your big-stage opportunities.

It’s a fast-paced, insightful wrap of the week that celebrates the thrill of high performance from backyard dreams to world-class arenas.

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/

Check Me Out On:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins

Theme Music Artist:

One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife

Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership

Episode Summary:

This episode is a rare and heartfelt look into the life and legacy of Peter Brock, told through the eyes of someone who knew him best. Ian Hawkins sits down with David Whitehead, who spent over a decade working alongside “Brocky” and saw first-hand what made him not just a motorsport icon but a leader and mentor who lived by purpose, optimism, and unshakable belief.

David shares how a chance encounter with Peter Brock completely changed the course of his life, from an eager young apprentice to becoming Brock’s trusted right-hand man. Through vivid stories from the pit lane and personal reflections, David gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the golden era of Australian motorsport: the camaraderie, the chaos, and the lessons that stretched far beyond the racetrack.

From the controversial Energy Polarizer saga to Brock’s approach to trust, nerves, and resilience, David offers fresh insight into what truly fuelled the man behind the legend. It’s an emotional journey that celebrates loyalty, learning under pressure, and the human side of greatness, capped with a powerful message about legacy, leadership, and the kind of belief that still inspires generations of athletes, coaches, and dreamers today.

About the Guest:

David Whitehead

David Whitehead is a seasoned business leader with over 30 years of experience across various industries, including automotive, sales, and business development. However, it’s his decade-long relationship with Australian motorsport icon Peter Brock that defines his career and life. Having started as a fan watching Brock race at Sandown, David’s chance meeting with the legend on the street led to a trusted partnership that saw him work closely with Brock in various roles, from HDT Racing to Brock Motor Company.

Through his work with Brock, David gained invaluable insights into leadership, resilience, and the power of positive expectation, lessons that continue to shape his approach to business and life. Today, David is the Group General Manager at Sheen Panel Service, where he leads business development and client relations across 27 locations

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/

Check Me Out On:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins

Theme Music Artist:

One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife

Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership

Episode Summary:

At this time of year, burnout hits hard. The workload’s heavy, the energy’s low, and you’re trying to keep too many fires burning at once.

In this episode, Ian Hawkins breaks down what burnout really is, not just physical exhaustion, but the emotional and mental toll of juggling too many roles and responsibilities. He explores why high performers are especially prone to it, how to identify the warning signs early, and what practical steps you can take to reset, recover, and refocus.

You’ll learn how to prioritise what truly matters, rebuild your energy, and finish the year feeling grounded, not drained. Whether you’re a parent, leader, athlete, or coach, this episode will help you manage your fire, not fight it.

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/

Check Me Out On:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins

Theme Music Artist:

One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife

Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership

Episode Summary:

The pressure of elite sport doesn’t only fall on athlete's sports journalists live under an equally unrelenting spotlight. In this episode, Ian Hawkins draws on his 18 years in sports media to explore the hidden toll of deadlines, scrutiny, and public opinion on those covering the game. He unpacks how constant exposure can drive mistakes, shape personas, and in some cases, lead to very public breakdowns.

From high-profile incidents involving Paul Kent and James Hooper to the broader reality of life in front of (and behind) the cameras, Ian sheds light on the human side of sports media. Beyond the headlines, he reflects on the role of empathy, coping strategies, and self-awareness when pressure reaches boiling point. Whether you work in media, business, or sport, this episode offers powerful lessons on resilience, personal responsibility, and how to stay grounded under scrutiny.

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/

Check Me Out On:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins

Theme Music Artist:

One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife

Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership

Episode Summary:

Ian shares a powerful coaching story from the Three Peaks Challenge, a 235km cycling epic capped by the infamous “WTF Corner.” His client was spiralling: doom-scrolling negative Facebook threads, stressing about the weather, and echoing others’ doubts in her own language. Together, they flipped the script: tightened the inputs, reframed her self-talk, and used targeted visualisation to mentally rehearse the toughest sections so her brain could match her body’s preparation.

This isn’t just for cyclists. Ian maps the same tools to presentations, high-stakes meetings and any moment that matters, shift your language, choose the voices you let in, build evidence, and picture success before you step up. The result? Less anxiety, more certainty, and the confidence to face your own “WTF corner” with composure.

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/

Check Me Out On:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins

Theme Music Artist:

One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife

Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership

Episode Summary:

As the NRL Grand Final captures the nation’s attention this weekend, it’s the perfect time to hear from someone who’s been there at the highest level. David Mead spent 14 years in the NRL and Super League, played over 230 professional games, and captained Papua New Guinea on the international stage. His career is filled with big moments, but it’s the lessons off the field that have shaped him most.

In this conversation, David opens up about what sport really teaches you about life and leadership. From nerves before his first team speech to the honour of leading his country, he shares how courage, humility, vulnerability, and responsibility became the cornerstones of his success. With stories of family sacrifice, mentor guidance, and practical tools like breathing and public speaking, David shows how athletes, and anyone in business or life can grow beyond the game.

About the Guest:

David Mead

David Mead played 14 years of professional rugby league, representing the Brisbane Broncos, Gold Coast Titans, Catalans Dragons, and captaining the PNG Kumuls. With over 230 professional games and 15 international appearances , he’s gained valuable insight into what it takes to perform at the highest level. Now, through conversations with fellow athletes, business minds, and community leaders, David shares real stories and lessons to inspire and empower the next generation.

Link/s:

https://www.youtube.com/@davidmeadpodcast

https://www.instagram.com/davidmead411/

https://www.tiktok.com/@davidmead411

https://web.facebook.com/david.mead.94

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mead-7604b986/

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/

Check Me Out On:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins

Theme Music Artist:

One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife

Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership

Episode Summary:

Ian Hawkins (with Ben Norris) dives into a lively week in sport: NRL finals drama, Panthers’ ruthless form, whether the Broncos are the only real threat, and why the Bulldogs and Raiders stalled. The Sharks’ late-season surge, Nico Hines’ big-moment composure, and a couple of eyebrow-raising officiating calls all get a run.

Beyond the scores, the duo revisit 25 years since Sydney 2000. Cathy Freeman’s iconic night and the citywide buzz, plus 20 years since the Socceroos broke their World Cup drought. There’s chat on Japan’s rugby rise after the “Miracle of Brighton,” the long-game mindset behind Japanese sport, a cheeky Gout Gout headline, and relay baton chaos that proves even elites slip up.

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/

Check Me Out On:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins

Theme Music Artist:

One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.

If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife 

Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership 

Episode Summary: 

Words aren’t just sounds; they’re code. The language you use shapes the meaning you give to situations, the stories you tell yourself, and ultimately the results you get in sport and in life. In this episode, Ian Hawkins unpacks the hidden power of words and why changing your self-talk can be as transformative as upgrading the software in your brain. 

Ian explores how negative language locks you into patterns of blame, victimhood, and self-doubt, while conscious shifts in the words you use can rewrite your story and unlock new levels of performance. Drawing on coaching experiences and real-life examples, he explains why self-awareness, journaling, and reframing are essential tools for changing your inner dialogue. 

If you want to break free from old narratives, build self-belief, and program your mind for high performance, this episode gives you practical strategies to change your words, change your story, and change your life. 

About the Host:  

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.  

Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/ 

Check Me Out On:  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching    

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins   

Theme Music Artist: 

One Day Kings  https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/ 

See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.