Winning the Second Half: Matt Elliott & Susan Pearce on Re-Engineering the Mind for Sustainable Success
What if the greatest game you'll ever play is the one inside your mind?
In this powerful episode of Transforming the Game, Kristina Katsanevas sits down with former NRL coach Matt Elliott and neuroscientist Susan Pearce, co-authors of the book Winning the Second Half. Together, they unpack how to break free from autopilot, master self-leadership, and build the mental agility needed to thrive through life’s second halves—whether that’s a new career, a comeback, or simply a more intentional chapter of life.
Matt brings raw lessons from high-performance sport and decades of leadership. Susan brings science-backed insights on rewiring the brain for calm, clarity, and courage. The result is a conversation that’s equal parts neuroscience and lived grit—a manual for real change.
If you’ve ever wondered how to stop reacting and start leading your own life, this episode will ignite your leadership journey.
Why You Need to Listen
Discover why it’s never too late to win your second half
Turn pressure and failure into growth opportunities
Explore neuroscience behind change, emotion, and habits
Hear behind-the-scenes stories from elite coaching and leadership
Unlock science-based tools for focus, resilience, and performance renewal
Chapters:
00:00Introduction to Winning the Second Half
01:25The Journey to Conscious Leadership
03:57Mindset in Sports and Wellbeing
07:32The Writing Process of Winning the Second Half
10:54Understanding Gender Perspectives in Midlife
12:56Tools for Navigating Midlife Transitions
15:48Celebrating the Second Half of Life
19:36The Role of AI in Modern Life
22:40Balancing Technology and Human Connection
26:58Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change
33:03Mindset vs. Body Set: The Power of Choice
34:59Training for Life: The Importance of Preparation
36:09Creating Positive Environments: The Role of Joy
38:59Influencing Change: The Power of Presence
40:38The Impact of Past Experiences on Present Choices
42:32Redefining Winning: A Holistic Approach to Life
45:48Navigating Change: Supporting Partners in Transition
49:48Focusing on Growth: Dealing with Resistance in Teams
52:11Communication in Relationships: Understanding Transitions
55:24The Importance of Emotional Conversations
58:32Encouraging Self-Reflection: Designing Your Life
Recommended Reading
Winning the Second Half by Matt Elliott and Susan Pearce – Buy on Amazon
https://www.amazon.com.au/Winning-Second-Half-Matt-Elliott/dp/1923501046
About Matt and Susan
Matt Elliott is a renowned NRL coach and performance consultant known for transforming teams and mindsets at the highest levels of sport. Today he helps individuals and leaders build mental resilience, purpose, and flow through his MindFit coaching programs.
Website: https://www.mattelliottcoach.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headcoachmattelliott/
Website: The Change Room – Health and Well-being
Susan Pearce is a bestselling author, mindfulness researcher, and speaker specialising in leadership and behavioural change. Her work in neuroscience and mindfulness helps people reconnect with their potential and lead with awareness, authenticity, and balance.
Website: https://www.susanpearce.com.au
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susanmpearse/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-pearse-022b0311/
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Links: https://beacons.ai/transformingthegame
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Website: https://www.kristinakatsanevas.com
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