Sport Is Life
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Sport Is Life episodes

  • #67 – What If Your Anxiety Is Really Just Nervous Excitement?

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement 

    Episode Summary: 

    In this episode of Sport Is Life, Ian Hawkins dives into the common experience of anxiety and its impact on performance, productivity, and overall well-being. He explores the fine line between anxiety and nervous excitement, offering practical strategies to reframe your mindset and calm your nervous system.  

    • Learn how to stay present, regain control, and use nerves to your advantage in sports, work, and life.  
    • Ian discusses how overthinking, and lack of certainty can exacerbate anxiety, and he provides actionable tips for building habits that promote confidence and focus. 


    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.  


    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. 

    14 min
  • #66 – Exciting Plans and Big Changes: What’s Coming in 2025

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement 

    Episode Summary: 

    In this exciting 2025 kickoff episode of Sport is Life, Ian Hawkins introduces a new chapter for the podcast. After a break in late 2024, he’s back with a refreshed vision focused more on sport, with a blend of life lessons, and a lighter approach to both.  

    • Ian shares his thoughts on the power of sport in finding purpose, building connections, and trusting the process. 
    • Ian unveils the changes in his setup and the launch of the Sport is Life Club VIP Facebook community, where listeners can engage more deeply in sport discussions, share their personal experiences, and get exclusive content.  
    • The episode dives into Ian’s passion for sport, the exciting new direction for the podcast, and future plans for roundtable discussions, guest appearances, and coaching episodes.  

    Get ready for a year of thrilling sports talk and personal growth in 2025! 


    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.  


    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. 

    11 min
  • #65 – The State of Cricket: Challenges and Opportunities for the Game

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement 

    Episode Summary: 

    In this first Sport Is Life Roundtable discussion, Ian Hawkins is joined by Bruce Wood, Neil Maxwell, Darren Holder, and Jay Headley for an insightful exploration of cricket’s cultural, developmental, and social impacts in Australia and beyond. Together, they reflect on cricket's role in fostering connection and belonging, while addressing the challenges of modern cricket, including the decline of grassroots participation, over-saturation of formats, and the need to balance tradition with innovation. 

    • Discover how cricket can reignite a sense of community and cultural identity. 
    • Learn why multi-sport participation enhances athletic and personal development. 
    • Explore the evolving responsibilities of coaches in creating meaningful connections. 

     

    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.  

    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. 

    1 hr 14 min
  • #64 - From Setbacks to Comebacks: Life Lessons on Gratitude, Resilience, and Playing in the Puddles with Barnaby Howarth

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement 

    Episode Summary: 

    Ian Hawkins discusses resilience and the transformative power of community through an inspiring conversation with Barnaby Howarth, whose story is a testament to overcoming adversity. From surviving a stroke and losing his wife to cancer to achieving personal milestones, Barnaby shares how small, consistent actions and support from others can lead to profound changes. 


    – Discover how a strong “why” can help you overcome life’s toughest challenges. 

    – Learn the role community plays in fostering resilience and personal growth. 

    – Explore the impact of focusing on small, meaningful moments to navigate adversity and inspire others. 


    About the Guest: 

    Barnaby Howarth 

    In this episode, we’re joined by Barnaby Howarth, a true testament to the power of resilience and determination. Barnaby is an extraordinary resilience coach, keynote speaker, and former AFL player whose story inspires audiences to go beyond simply bouncing back from setbacks to truly thriving in life. 

     

    With over a decade of coaching experience, Barnaby shares relatable personal anecdotes and winning strategies rooted in his own incredible journey. Diagnosed with type-1 diabetes at 14, playing for the Sydney Swans at 18, surviving a life-altering stroke at 25, and navigating the loss of his wife at 36, Barnaby has faced challenges that many can’t even imagine. 

     

    Through it all, he’s shown an unwavering commitment to rebuilding, overcoming, and inspiring others to do the same. Barnaby brings a unique combination of wisdom, humor, and positivity to his work, helping people unlock their inner strength and live life to the fullest. 

     

    Barnaby’s story is far from average, and his insights on resilience and determination will leave you empowered and ready to embrace life’s puddles, challenges, and triumphs alike. 

     

    Link/s: 

    Website: https://barnabyhowarth.com.au/ 

     

    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.  


    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. 

    1 hr 11 min
  • #63 – Why You Need a Personal Performance Coach to Reach Your Full Potential

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement

    Episode Summary: 

    In this episode, Ian Hawkins highlights the profound impact a personal performance coach can have on your life. He discusses the importance of seeking support, externalizing thoughts, and breaking free from limiting beliefs to achieve personal and professional growth. 


    – Understand how coaching can fast-track your progress and unlock your potential. 

    – Explore the value of independent guidance for clarity and validation. 

    – Learn how to navigate challenges, shift subconscious patterns, and embrace continual improvement.

     

    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.  


    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. 

    15 min
  • #62 – The High Performer’s Curse: Why It Always Feels Like You Could Have Done Better

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement

    Episode Summary: 

    In this episode, Ian Hawkins explores the common experience of high performers feeling like failures, despite their successes. He discusses the impact of setting unrealistically high expectations and how it can lead to a cycle of self-criticism. 

    Ian shares practical strategies to help break this cycle, including the importance of recognizing and celebrating progress. By shifting focus from perceived shortcomings to acknowledging achievements, listeners can build momentum and find greater consistency in their success. 

    Tune in for insights on how to overcome the curse of perfectionism and start feeling better about where you’re at and where you’re headed. 


    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.  


    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. 

    10 min
  • #61 – The 3 Keys to Success: Lessons from Elite Athletes

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement 

    Episode Summary: 

    Ian Hawkins explores the three key elements of success, inspired by lessons from elite sportspeople. He emphasizes the importance of hard work, doing what you love, and being authentically yourself. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, Ian shows how small, intentional steps can lead to a more fulfilling and successful life. 

    • Discover why doing what you love is crucial for long-term success and happiness. 
    • Learn how being authentically yourself can help you overcome challenges and build stronger connections. 
    • Explore the role of courage, commitment, and incremental changes in creating a life you love. 

    Now is the time to take action—commit to one step today and embrace your journey toward success. 


    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.  


    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. 

    7 min
  • #60 - Ange Postecoglou: The Power of Belief, Process, and Relentless Excellence

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement 

    Episode Summary: 

    In this episode of Sport Is Life, host Ian Hawkins explores the inspiring coaching journey of Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham Hotspur’s manager. Ian delves into Ange’s relentless pursuit of excellence, unwavering belief in his system, and the emotional intelligence that sets him apart as a leader. From his beginnings as a self-taught coach to leading international teams and clubs, Ange’s philosophy centers on process over outcomes, taking full responsibility, and fostering deep connections with his players. Ian also touches on current events in Australian sport, including young sprinter Gout Gout, cricket milestones, and reflections on the Phil Hughes anniversary. Tune in for a rich discussion on leadership, resilience, and the lessons we can apply from sport to life. 


    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.  


    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. 

    14 min
  • #59 - Aligning for Success: Mentorship, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, and Coaching Lessons from International Sport with Darren Holder

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement 

    Episode Summary: 

    In this episode of Sport is Life, host Ian Hawkins is joined by performance expert Darren Holder to discuss aligning for success through mentorship, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the powerful lessons learned from international sport. Darren shares his extensive experience in creating bespoke coaching programs that support athletes and coaches in their development, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. 


    The conversation dives deep into the challenges coaches face, particularly in elite sports, and how mentorship plays a crucial role in overcoming obstacles such as imposter syndrome. Darren also highlights how international experiences and evidence-based approaches can transform coaching practices, ensuring sustained success in both personal and professional realms. 


    Throughout the episode, Ian and Darren explore how tailored frameworks and immersive learning opportunities—such as study tours and exchanges—can help coaches at all levels reach their full potential. With a focus on well-being, performance, and development, this episode offers valuable insights into how sports leadership is evolving for the better. 


    About the Guest: 

    Darren Holder 

    Darren Holder is a passionate advocate for coaching practice and performance, with extensive experience working across Australian and international sports. He specialises in developing customised programs and frameworks for individuals, teams, and organisations to drive learning and continuous improvement, particularly in elite coaching. With a deep understanding of the connection between theory and practice, Darren uses evidence-based research to support coach growth, well-being, and performance. 

     

    Having built a robust network across both domestic and international sport, Darren facilitates experiential learning opportunities, such as immersive study tours, exchanges, and summits, to support the development of coaches and performance leaders. His expertise also extends to creating continuous programs and capability frameworks tailored to the specific needs of clients. 

     

    Darren is an experienced facilitator, coach developer, and systems convener, with a strong background in coaching, performance leadership, and sport management. He holds a Bachelor of Exercise Science from Griffith University and has contributed to numerous academic articles and book chapters. 

     

    Link/s: 

    LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/darrenholder 

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


    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.  


    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. 

    1 hr 11 min
  • #58 - Step Out of Your Comfort Zone, Conquer Imposter Syndrome, and Soar in 2025

    If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement 

    Episode Summary: 


    In this episode of Sport Is Life, Ian Hawkins dives into the key actions needed to make 2025 your best year yet. He discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, building self-belief, and stepping out of your comfort zone. Using a flight analogy, Ian explains how preparation, energy, and the right environment are essential for success. Whether you're looking to upgrade your personal brand, improve performance, or find consistency, Ian's strategies will help you finish this year strong and set up next year with momentum. Tune in for practical insights and details about his free training to kickstart 2025. 


    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.  


    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. 


     

     

    10 min

About Sport Is Life

From the publisher's feed

The Sport Is Life podcast explores how sport can positively change your life. Join us as we delve into the powerful life lessons that sport teaches you, lessons that can be applied to every aspect of your life. Host Ian Hawkins shares wisdom and insights gained from a lifetime of experience as an athlete, husband, father, PE teacher, community volunteer, manager at Fox Sports and a performance coach to elite athletes, business owners, corporate leaders, and other coaches. Tune in to hear how sports can provide the tools you need to excel in your personal and professional life. From practical advice to heartfelt stories, the "Sport Is Life Podcast" is your guide to unlocking the potential within you through the power of sport.