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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Connect with Kristina Katsanevas
Links: https://beacons.ai/transformingthegame

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinakatsanevas
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Website: https://www.kristinakatsanevas.com

If this episode helped you rethink what’s possible, please subscribe, like, and share—it helps us keep transforming the game.

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