Podcast
Sport Is Life
Hosted by Ian Hawkins · EN
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.
Sport is more than just a game; Sport Is Life.
45episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
#285 – NRL | Blues Win Locked In?!
1w ago00:50:30Tap to summarizeIf 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 Origin debate ramps up as Ian Hawkins and Steve revisit the Blues and Maroons squads after a few days to digest the selections; and surprisingly, they’re starting to talk themselves into a New South Wales win. The boys break down the “too many cooks” debate around Nathan Cleary, Mitchell Moses and James Tedesco, discuss why the speed of the modern game could actually suit the Blues, and question whether Origin will truly be refereed differently from the NRL. There’s also emotional discussion around the heartbreaking MND diagnosis of former Queensland representative Jarrod Wallace, and what moments like this mean for the rugby league community. The episode also previews a disrupted Origin-round slate, with huge focus on the red-hot Manly Sea Eagles, the improving St. George Illawarra Dragons, and why the Dragons rebuild is finally gathering momentum through smart recruitment and the rise of their young forward pack. Ian and Steve also call out the growing frustration with agenda-driven mainstream rugby league media, making a strong case for honest, fan-first football discussion without political narratives or manufactured controversy. 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.
Transcribe →#284 – NRL | Origin Teams Named & Magic Round Chaos
1w ago01:02:42Tap to summarizeIf 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/sportislifeReady 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/gameplanmembershipEpisode Summary:Magic Round delivered big crowds, huge scorelines, and even bigger talking points; but the main focus of this episode is the controversial State of Origin team selections. Ian Hawkins and Steve break down why they believe the Blues have gone too safe again, questioning selections like Stephen Crichton and Mitchell Moses while debating whether Laurie Daley has picked the right team for the speed of the modern game. In contrast, the boys praise Billy Slater for backing speed and explosiveness, with Queensland selecting a dangerous lineup featuring Kalyn Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Harry Grant.The episode also dives deep into the biggest Magic Round performances; including the rise of the red-hot Newcastle Knights, the resilience of the North Queensland Cowboys, and why the New Zealand Warriors are becoming one of the most complete teams in the competition. There’s strong discussion around refereeing inconsistencies, the evolving speed of the NRL, the continued dominance of the Penrith Panthers, and why some clubs are already falling behind in the new era of football.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/ianhawkinscoachingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianhawkinscoachingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkinsTheme Music Artist:One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.
Transcribe →#283 – NRL Preview | Cleary Bombshell, Magic Round & Origin Gamble
2w ago00:56:18Tap to summarizeIf 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/sportislifeReady 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/gameplanmembershipEpisode Summary:Magic Round is here, but the biggest headlines are happening off the field. Ian Hawkins and Steve break down the shock announcement that legendary coach Ivan Cleary will leave the Penrith Panthers after 2027, sparking massive debate about what comes next for both Cleary and the club. Could the Sydney Roosters make a move? Could Nathan follow? The boys dive into the possibilities, while also unpacking the growing speculation around Luke Metcalf’s future after being given permission to negotiate with rival clubs.On the field, this episode previews every Magic Round clash, including the struggling Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs against the unpredictable Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, the rise of the red-hot Newcastle Knights, and why the New Zealand Warriors could dominate through the middle against the Brisbane Broncos. The conversation also shifts heavily into Origin selection; debating whether the Blues finally embrace the speed of the modern game or fall back into old habits again. From team list drama to big predictions and bold calls, this episode is loaded with rugby league insight and controversy.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/ianhawkinscoachingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianhawkinscoachingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkinsTheme Music Artist:One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.
Transcribe →#282 – NRL | Doggies Drama Deepens & Storm Strike Back
2w ago00:53:04Tap to summarizeIf 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/sportislifeReady 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/gameplanmembershipEpisode Summary:The NRL’s new era of speed, fatigue, and massive scorelines continues; and Ian Hawkins and Steve break down another chaotic weekend that’s left fans divided. From the controversial Toya “try” decision and the Bulldogs’ ongoing collapse, to the return of the Melbourne Storm and another explosive attacking showcase from the Newcastle Knights, this episode dives deep into what’s really driving results in the modern game. The key theme? Teams that control possession, win the ruck, and survive the early arm wrestle are blowing opponents away once fatigue hits.The boys also unpack the rise of the Manly Sea Eagles under Kieran Foran, why the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks are becoming one of the most frustrating teams in the competition, and how Origin selection could reshape the ladder over the next two months. There’s strong analysis on the evolving style of play, the Panthers’ continued dominance, and which teams are finally adapting to the new rules. If you want honest rugby league discussion with big opinions, tactical insight, and no fluff, this one delivers.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/ianhawkinscoachingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianhawkinscoachingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkinsTheme Music Artist:One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.
Transcribe →#281 – Mark Tookey | Purpose, Community & No Limits with “Big Tooks”
3w ago01:04:55Tap to summarizeIf 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 Mike Tookey Charity Walk: https://m-bracethemagic.gofundraise.com.au/page/MarkTookey Mike Tookey Business: https://www.bigtookssports.com.au/ Episode Summary: Some stories go beyond sport; this is one of them. Ian Hawkins sits down with former NRL hardman Mark Tookey; better known as “Big Tooks”; to unpack a journey that spans elite rugby league, personal loss, and a life now driven by purpose. From his rise through the Parramatta Eels and New Zealand Warriors, including a grand final run, to the raw reality of transitioning out of professional sport, Tookey shares what really happens when the crowd fades and identity shifts. But it’s what came next that defines this conversation. Through experiences with mental health, losing loved ones to suicide, and raising a daughter with cerebral palsy, Tookey has built a life centred on impact. From running marathons and community events to supporting disability programs and educating sports parents, his message is simple but powerful; remove limits, take action, and give back. This episode blends humour, honesty, and heart, leaving you with a clear reminder that high performance isn’t just about what you achieve; it’s about how you show up for others. About the Guest: Mark Tookey Professional NRL player Mark “Big Tooks” Tookey is a former professional NRL player, community leader and passionate mental health and inclusion advocate. A retired prop forward, Tooks played at the highest level with the South Queensland Crushers, the Parramatta Eels and the One NZ Warriors, where he was part of the squad that reached the 2002 NRL Grand Final. He later continued his professional career in the UK with the Castleford Tigers and London Broncos. Since retiring, Tooks has dedicated his life to giving back, working as an assistant coach for the Tongan National Team, a Development Officer with the Canberra Raiders and now as the recently appointed Community Manager for the One NZ Warriors in Logan, where his focus is connection, inclusion and wellbeing through sport. Mental health and inclusivity are deeply personal to Tooks. Having lost his brother and a close friend, he understands firsthand the impact of mental health challenges and the importance of early support and open conversations. As a father to a daughter living with cerebral palsy and with lived experience of disability and vision impairment within his close family and friendship circles, Tooks is a strong advocate for inclusion, accessibility and community connection. Through Big Tooks Sports events, community volunteering, charity walks and conversations as a guest speaker and podcast contributor, his mission is simple: show up, speak up and remind people they’re not alone. Links:/ Company Website: https://www.bigtookssports.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.tookey.2025/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-tookey-b2985780/ 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.
Transcribe →#280 – NRL | The Upset We Both Agree On & Your Chance To Join Us
3w ago00:47:11Tap to summarizeIf 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 new Sport Is Life NRL Preview Show kicks off with Ian Hawkins and Steve breaking down every game of the round; and for the first time ever, giving listeners the chance to join the show and have their say. From bold predictions to deep team analysis, this episode dives into the biggest storylines heading into the weekend; including the rise of the Sydney Roosters, growing concerns around the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs attack, and whether the struggling Melbourne Storm can finally break their losing streak. The boys also spotlight exciting young debutants, including Titans halfback Zayn Harrison, discuss why the Canberra Raiders could trouble the Penrith Panthers, and lock in their upset and lock of the week. With strong opinions, honest analysis, and plenty of banter, this is the ultimate preview for NRL fans wanting more than just surface-level footy talk. 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.
Transcribe →#279 – High Performance | Why Better Results Still Get Rejected
3w ago00:11:24Tap to summarizeIf 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/sportislifeReady 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/gameplanmembershipEpisode Summary:Most people say they want better results, but not if it costs them how they’re seen. In this episode, Ian Hawkins breaks down one of the most overlooked performance traps: choosing image over effectiveness. Using the underarm free throw, rejected despite being more successful, as the central metaphor, he explores why even elite performers avoid what works when it threatens their identity.Through stories of legends like Wilt Chamberlain and modern-day examples, this episode exposes how fear of judgment quietly limits performance in sport, business, and life. Ian connects this to real-world decisions, like avoiding coaching, staying stuck in familiar habits, or resisting uncomfortable strategies that could accelerate growth.If you’ve ever held back because of what others might think, this episode will challenge you to rethink your standards, back yourself, and start choosing results over perception, without losing your sense of self.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/ianhawkinscoachingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianhawkinscoachingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkinsTheme Music Artist:One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.
Transcribe →#278 – NRL | Knights Surge, Manly Legit, Game in Trouble
3w ago00:54:19Tap to summarizeIf 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/sportislifeReady 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/gameplanmembershipEpisode Summary:The NRL has hit a tipping point; and this episode doesn’t hold back. Ian Hawkins and Steve break down a weekend full of contradictions; big wins, breakout performances, and a growing concern that the game itself is slipping away from what made it great.From the North Queensland Cowboys grinding out a tough win in Sydney to the Manly Sea Eagles proving they’re the real deal, there’s no shortage of storylines. Young talent continues to emerge; including Joey Walsh stepping up under pressure; while teams like the Newcastle Knights show just how dangerous they can be when the game opens up. Even the struggling St. George Illawarra Dragons finally get on the board, offering a glimpse of hope.But the biggest talking point isn’t the results; it’s the state of the game. With players openly admitting they’re not enjoying it, and momentum swings now deciding matches in minutes, serious questions are being asked about refereeing influence, six-again calls, and whether the NRL is drifting toward entertainment over competitiAbout 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/ianhawkinscoachingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianhawkinscoachingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkinsTheme Music Artist:One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.
Transcribe →#277 – High Performance | Phil Gould; The Power and Pitfalls of a Tinkerer
3w ago00:21:17Tap to summarizeIf 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 dives deep into the mindset and leadership style of Phil “Gus” Gould, one of rugby league’s most influential figures, through the lens of high performance and personality profiling. Ian breaks down Gould’s identity as a “tinkerer” A systems thinker who has repeatedly transformed clubs by rebuilding structures, pathways, and culture from the ground up. From his time at the Panthers to his influence at the Bulldogs, the episode explores how Gould’s strengths have fueled long-term success. But there’s a flip side. The same instinct to constantly refine and adjust may also create friction, particularly when it clashes with coaching autonomy. Through real NRL examples, including Ivan Cleary’s ultimatum, this episode examines the fine line between innovation and over-involvement, and what happens when strengths become limitations. More importantly, this isn’t just about rugby league. It’s about you. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or business leader, this episode challenges you to understand your own performance identity, where you thrive, where you drain energy, and how to operate in your zone for maximum impact. 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.
Transcribe →#276 – NRL | Avalanche of Points….Has the Game Gone Too Far?
4w ago01:08:18Tap to summarizeIf 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/sportislifeReady 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/gameplanmembershipEpisode Summary:Is the modern NRL delivering excitement… or losing its identity?After an ANZAC round packed with record crowds and an avalanche of points, Ian Hawkins and Steve dive into one of the biggest questions in the game right now; has the new style of rugby league gone too far?They unpack the rise in high-scoring blowouts, the impact of rule interpretations like six-again, and why some long-time fans are starting to switch off. From concerns around fatigue, injuries, and inconsistency in officiating, to the growing gap between top teams and the rest, this episode tackles the tension between entertainment and authenticity.The conversation also breaks down:• The teams separating themselves as genuine contenders• The Tigers’ rise and why they’re becoming a serious threat• The Storm’s struggles adapting to the new game speed• Whether the Roosters are timing their run perfectly• And how Origin and injuries could expose deeper issuesThis isn’t just about footy. It’s about identity, evolution, and what happens when a game moves faster than the people who built 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/ianhawkinscoachingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianhawkinscoachingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkinsTheme Music Artist:One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.
Transcribe →