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 

Want to get better at handling pressure? Start with our Performance Meditation training and learn how to stay calm, focused, and consistent — no matter what. - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation  

Episode Summary: 

In this uplifting episode of Sport Is Life, Ian Hawkins shares how appreciation—not just gratitude—is a powerful tool for attracting growth, fulfilment, and success. Drawing on personal stories and lessons from his own journey, Ian explains how appreciation literally means “increase” and how shifting your focus from drama to daily moments of value can unlock performance, wealth, and joy. He gives simple, practical steps to start incorporating appreciation into your routine and challenges you to build momentum over the next week. 

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 

Want to get better at handling pressure? Start with our Performance Meditation training and learn how to stay calm, focused, and consistent — no matter what. - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation  

Episode Summary: 

In this powerful episode of Sport Is Life, Ian Hawkins explores the emotional impact of rejection through the lens of NRL player Brandon Smith’s exit from the Roosters. Whether it’s redundancy, relationship breakdowns, or team selection, Ian reveals how early-life experiences of rejection can shape patterns that continue to affect your performance, confidence, and consistency today. He shares personal insights and strategies to uncover and heal these hidden wounds, so you can let go of self-doubt, stop repeating the same cycles, and finally unlock your full potential. 

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 

Are you ready to find your “Why”? Join the Purpose Training here https://www.facebook.com/groups/1520159328628207 

Ready to create your Vision, Live your Values and Find more Purpose, join the Game Plan Membership here https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership 

Episode Summary: 

In this insightful episode of Sporty Is Life, Ian Hawkins is joined by elite coach and coaching mentor Will Webster. Will shares his personal journey from a sport-filled childhood and semi-professional rugby to coaching at the highest levels, including leading the Kenya National Rugby Sevens team and now mentoring head coaches across multiple sports.

They explore the power of humility, the importance of emotional regulation, building trust, and the critical role of vision and values in high performance. Will also reveals lessons from visiting over 120 elite sports teams worldwide and how the best coaches manage conflict, culture, and self-awareness. This conversation is a goldmine for coaches, leaders, and anyone striving to grow—both on and off the field.

About the Guest: 

Will Webster – High-Performance Coach Mentor & Former Elite Rugby Head Coach 

Will Webster is a former rugby head coach and educator who now works behind the scenes with head coaches across six elite sports, helping them unlock new levels of performance—for themselves and their teams. 

With a deep understanding of the pressure and complexity that comes with stepping into the top job, Will supports coaches as they transition from assistant to leader, navigating the shift from following direction to shaping vision, making high-stakes decisions, and influencing lives daily. 

He knows that in the world of high-performance sport, growth and self-care often fall by the wayside—but the best coaches never stop learning. Will’s mission is to help them stay sharp, sustain their edge, and lead with clarity, purpose, and resilience. 

Website: wwperformanceleadership.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-webster-665675a1 

Ready to create your Vision, Live your Values and Find more Purpose, join the Game Plan Membership here https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership 

About the Host:  

Ian Hawkins, host of "Sport Is Life," 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.  

If you’re working too hard too quieten the headnoise, check out my Performance Meditation training here - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation 

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

If you'd like to take your self-awareness to the next level, Ian is happy to share his personal journaling process—a simple yet powerful tool to help you reflect, grow, and lead with intention. Just send a message to [email protected] to receive your free copy. 

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 

Want to get better at handling pressure? Start with our Performance Meditation training and learn how to stay calm, focused, and consistent — no matter what. - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation  

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of Sport Is Life, Ian Hawkins shares powerful lessons from his recent talk at The King’s School football program season launch, where the theme was connection. Ian explores why connection is just as critical as capability in building high-performing teams—in sport, at work, and within families. He outlines practical ways to strengthen team bonds, from showing genuine interest in others and listening without judgment, to practicing self-control and leading with empathy.  

Whether you’re a parent, coach, or team leader, this episode offers tangible steps to unlock deeper trust, unity, and performance. 

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

Want to get better at handling pressure? Start with our Performance Meditation training and learn how to stay calm, focused, and consistent — no matter what. - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Ian Hawkins breaks down the difference between technical coaching and connection-based leadership—and why the latter is often the missing link in unlocking a team's true potential. Drawing on examples from top-level coaches like Wayne Bennett, Craig Bellamy, and Pep Guardiola, Ian explores how emotional intelligence, curiosity, and human connection drive deeper motivation, consistency, and trust.

Whether you’re a coach, parent, or leader, this episode offers practical insights on how to connect better and get more out of your people—without needing more qualifications.

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 

Want to get better at handling pressure? Start with our Performance Meditation training and learn how to stay calm, focused, and consistent — no matter what. - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation  

Episode Summary: 

In this episode, Ian Hawkins explores confirmation bias—the unconscious tendency to seek out information that supports our existing beliefs—and how it keeps us stuck in unhelpful patterns. Through candid reflections on his own health journey and coaching experiences, Ian explains why being open to new possibilities is crucial to growth. He shares practical tools to challenge limiting beliefs, break free from outdated thinking, and create space for new results—especially in areas you may have written off as unchangeable. 

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 

Want to get better at handling pressure? Start with our Performance Meditation training and learn how to stay calm, focused, and consistent — no matter what. - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation  

Episode Summary: 

In this episode, Ian Hawkins dives into the power of authenticity and leaning into your natural strengths. Using insights from tennis great Pat Rafter and his own leadership experience, Ian explains why trying to "fix" your weaknesses can leave you exhausted and frustrated—and how real success comes when you embrace and enhance what you’re already good at.  

From the sporting field to everyday life, discover how being more of your true self is not only freeing but incredibly effective. 

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 

Are you ready to find your “Why”? Join the Purpose Training here https://www.facebook.com/groups/1520159328628207 

Get your copy of Escape the Middle by Todd Polke on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Escape-Middle-Millionaire-Mindset-Outlives/dp/1394303998 

Episode Summary: 

In this episode, Ian Hawkins is joined by Todd Polke— a leading wealth strategist, international trainer, and sought-after speaker in the finance and property space. Todd brings more than financial wisdom. He shares deep insights into the power of authenticity, discovering your purpose, and creating a lasting legacy. From tips you’ve likely never heard about building wealth to thought-provoking advice on living a life aligned with your genius, this episode offers both inspiration and practical tools for growth. 

About the Guest: 

Todd Polke 

Todd Polke is a leading wealth strategist, international trainer, and sought-after speaker in the finance and property space. Regularly featured on Sky News Real Estate, Smart Property Investment, and Your Money, Todd has been involved in over $3B+ in deals. He helps investors scale their portfolios faster through proven wealth systems that deliver real results—creating more money, more time, and more freedom.

• FB - https://www.facebook.com/todd.polke 
• IG - https://www.instagram.com/todd.polke/ 
• X - https://x.com/ToddPolke 
• YT - https://www.youtube.com/user/toddpolke 
• IN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/investment-strategist/ 

Get your copy of Escape the Middle by Todd Polke on Amazon. 

To view more of Todd’s work: Website 

About the Host:  

Ian Hawkins, host of "Sport Is Life," 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.  

If you’re working too hard too quieten the headnoise, check out my Performance Meditation training here - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation 

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

If you'd like to take your self-awareness to the next level, Ian is happy to share his personal journaling process—a simple yet powerful tool to help you reflect, grow, and lead with intention. Just send a message to [email protected] to receive your free copy. 

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 

Want to get better at handling pressure? Start with our Performance Meditation training and learn how to stay calm, focused, and consistent — no matter what. - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation  

Episode Summary: 

In this episode, Ian Hawkins challenges parents to reflect on the everyday behaviours and habits they model to their children—especially teens and young adults. With honesty and insight, he highlights how kids absorb far more from what they see than what they’re told, from how we manage stress and emotions to how we look after our health, confidence, and relationships. Ian also shares practical advice on how to break unhealthy patterns and build a more aligned, confident version of yourself—one that sets a stronger, more intentional example for your kids.  

Discover how creating a life game plan can benefit both you and your family. 

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

Want to get better at handling pressure? Start with our Performance Meditation training and learn how to stay calm, focused, and consistent — no matter what. - https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/performancemeditation

Episode Summary:

In this thought-provoking episode of Sport Is Life, Ian Hawkins reveals one of the most surprising and under-discussed causes of poor sleep: a lack of purpose. Drawing on real coaching experiences and personal insights, Ian explains how unresolved internal conflict and a deep yearning for fulfilment can keep you mentally and physically restless—even if you follow all the standard sleep hygiene tips. He unpacks how purpose isn’t some grand mission but something already embedded in your day-to-day life, especially in how you instinctively help others through struggles you’ve faced yourself.

Tune in to learn how identifying and embracing this “thread” can not only bring meaning to your days—but finally bring peace to your nights.

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.