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Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Sport is Life Podcast, host Ian Hawkins is joined by Kyle Van Der Pool-Ashburn for an inspiring conversation about resilience, redemption, and overcoming mental barriers. Kyle reflects on his journey from Papua New Guinea to Thailand, sharing personal stories of growth, battling “head noise,” and the pivotal moments that shaped his life. Together, they delve into the importance of mentorship, finding purpose through adversity, and using life’s toughest challenges as stepping stones for success.
About the Guest:
Kyle Van Der Pool-Ashburn
Kyle Van Der Pool-Ashburn, 30, has worn many hats—from starting as a security guard and bar manager at 18 to now working in Customer Relations for a bookmaker.
A proud country boy, Kyle grew up in the Blue Mountains on a farm with his single mother. He also spent significant time in Papua New Guinea, where his father has lived throughout Kyle's life. From attending local footy games in Port Moresby to visiting villages connected to his father’s ex-wife, PNG has been a meaningful part of Kyle's story.
A third-generation soccer player for the Hazelbrook Hawks, Kyle admits he was “forced” into the sport by family tradition. He later left school in grade 11 to pursue a chef apprenticeship but eventually transitioned into bar and security work for better opportunities.
Kyle’s passion for connecting with people led him to podcasting. He hosts the Offszn Podcast, where he has interviewed a diverse range of guests, including professional athletes and actors. Recently, he launched a new sports-focused podcast with Jamie Soward called All The Gear No Idea.
With a natural ability to connect with professional athletes from a young age, Kyle has built lasting relationships with individuals across various fields, making his journey one of resilience, adaptability, and connection.
Social media:
Kyle Van Der Poel-Ashburn: https://www.instagram.com/kvanderpoel/
All The Gear No Idea: https://www.instagram.com/allthegearnoideapod/
Offszn Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offszn.podcast/?hl=en
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/
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/
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