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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-skene/

Books:

- https://www.amazon.com.au/Celestial-Footy-Chinese-Heritage-Aussie/dp/0646879014

- https://www.amazon.com.au/Big-Life-Times-Olsen-Filipaina/dp/1988516846

Episode Summary:

Award-winning author, journalist and storyteller Patrick Skene joins Ian for a fascinating conversation about why sport has become one of the last places where people find meaning, belonging and hope. Together they explore why a new sporting season feels like a fresh start, how storytelling shapes our love of teams and athletes, and why sport teaches resilience, leadership and emotional intelligence better than almost anything else. Patrick also shares why he believes stadiums have become the modern cathedrals and how the hero's journey plays out every weekend in sport.

The discussion also dives into grassroots sport, parenting, multiculturalism, identity, elite performance and the lessons sport teaches about failure, teamwork and purpose. From Michael Jordan and Ted Lasso to the Warriors, Bulldogs and the power of redemption stories, this episode is a celebration of why sport continues to unite people across generations and cultures.

About the Guest:

Patrick Skene

Patrick Skene is an award winning author, journalist and writer on the intersection of sports, history and culture. His second book 'Celestial Footy', the story of Chinese Australian participation in Aussie Rules won the Australian Society for Sports History public book prize. In November 2025 he was ranked second worldwide for LinkedIn in the Sports Journalists category. Patrick is also the owner of CulturalPulse an agency specialising in fan engagement for sports tournaments.

Links:/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-skene/

Website: http://www.culturalpulse.com.au/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/culturalpulseau/

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.

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Check Me Out On:

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins

Theme Music Artist:

One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

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