Sport Is Life

Ian Hawkins

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.

  1. 1d ago

    #312 – NRL | THE SHARKS ARE DONE! | Latrell & Turbo Are Back

    If 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: Latrell Mitchell could be back, and suddenly South Sydney become one of the most dangerous teams heading into the NRL finals. Ian and Steve discuss how Wayne Bennett could use Latrell off the bench, why he can change a game even without being at full fitness, and just how far the Rabbitohs could go if their superstar returns firing. That sets up a huge clash with the Warriors, who are fighting to secure a top-two finish and potentially avoid leaving New Zealand again until Grand Final day. The boys also explore what has made Andrew Webster’s Warriors so connected and why that culture could become their secret weapon in September. The finals race is tightening everywhere. The Sharks’ dramatic slide raises serious questions about whether their premiership window is closing, with injuries, inconsistent form and several players departing at season’s end adding to the pressure. Ian even tips the Titans as his upset of the round. Meanwhile, Tom Trbojevic returns for Manly despite their finals hopes being virtually over, the Roosters continue to emerge as one of the competition’s form teams, and the Panthers face a crucial few weeks after brutal clashes with the Warriors and Roosters. The episode finishes with a tribute to retiring Raiders great Josh Papalii and another deep dive into the Broncos’ problems. Ian and Steve question whether Brisbane’s issues extend well beyond their on-field performances, with recruitment, depth, leadership and Michael Maguire’s future all coming under scrutiny heading towards 2027. 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.

  2. 3d ago

    #311 – NRL | Are the Roosters Now the Team to Beat?

    If 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 Sydney Roosters have thrown down a massive premiership marker. Ian and Steve break down their outstanding defensive performance against Penrith and ask whether the Roosters have now joined the Warriors as the teams to beat heading into the NRL finals. With their spine clicking, young stars continuing to emerge and big-game experience throughout the squad, the Roosters suddenly look built for September. The boys also assess Penrith’s adjustment to life without Isaah Yeo and why Nathan Cleary may need to take on an even greater role if the Panthers are going to defend their title. The spotlight then turns to Brisbane after a passionate Broncos fan describes a club that has lost its aura. Ian and Steve dig into what has gone wrong at one of rugby league’s biggest clubs, the impact of losing Payne Haas and whether Michael Maguire can turn things around. South Sydney have also forced themselves back into the finals conversation, but how dangerous can the Rabbitohs really be if Latrell Mitchell returns? Meanwhile, injuries continue to reshape the premiership race, with Luke Metcalf ruled out, the Sharks hit by key injuries and Will Bedell uncovering some fascinating numbers around Cronulla, the Dolphins and Nathan Cleary’s increased involvement without Yeo. 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.

  3. Aug 12

    #310 – NRL | The WORST NRL Idea of the PVL Era? | Australia Could MISS the World Cup Final

    If 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 week Ian and Steve tackle one of the strangest ideas floated in the NRL this season: a third-versus-fourth playoff during Grand Final week. They explain why they believe the concept would struggle to engage players or fans, risk turning into a meaningless exhibition, and distract from the biggest week on the rugby league calendar. The boys also read out some of the growing feedback from YouTube viewers, including passionate Warriors fans reacting to the club’s rise and the increasing popularity of rugby league in New Zealand. The conversation then turns to the 2026 Rugby League World Cup and a major question: will Australia even enter as favourites? With New Zealand, Samoa and Tonga building increasingly powerful squads, Ian and Steve argue this could be the most open World Cup in decades. They also preview a huge Panthers vs Roosters clash, discuss whether the Roosters can stamp their authority on a Penrith side missing key players, assess the crucial Bulldogs vs Rabbitohs battle in the finals race, and make their weekly predictions. The episode also reacts to breaking news around Jett Cleary’s reported request to leave the Warriors and return to Penrith. 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.

  4. Aug 10

    #309 – NRL | The Warriors Just Sent a HUGE Message | Can Penrith Win Without Yeo?

    If 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 Warriors have sent a massive warning to the rest of the NRL. Ian and Steve break down their statement victory over Penrith, including a dominant opening that overwhelmed the competition benchmark and a huge return from Luke Metcalf. With the Warriors now sitting No.1 in the podcast’s power rankings, the question is getting serious: are they now the team to beat for the premiership? For Penrith, the picture suddenly looks very different. Isaiah Yeo’s injury could be a devastating blow to their premiership hopes, with the boys examining just how important he is to Nathan Cleary and the Panthers’ attack. Meanwhile, the Sharks’ shock loss to the Dragons sparks a debate over whether it was simply one bad night or another warning sign heading towards September. The Dragons’ young forwards also earn plenty of praise after taking it to one of the competition’s most highly rated packs. Will Bedell returns with some extraordinary numbers, including a remarkable Broncos statistic that helps explain why their season fell apart, plus revealing trends around South Sydney and the Roosters. The Dolphins also celebrate their first finals appearance and emerge as a genuine danger outside the top four, while the premiership race continues to tighten heading into the final weeks of the regular season. 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.

  5. Aug 5

    #308 – NRL | Warriors' Biggest Test Yet | Sharks Fans Come For Us

    If 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 NRL's biggest blockbuster has arrived, and Ian and Steve preview what could be the game of the season as the Warriors host the Panthers in a clash that could shape the premiership race. The boys break down the battle between two elite forward packs, Nathan Cleary's incredible form since State of Origin, James Fisher-Harris facing his former club, and why the result could have huge implications for the Warriors' hopes of securing a top-two finish. They also debate whether Penrith's experience or the Warriors' home-ground advantage will prove decisive in what promises to be a finals-like contest. The episode also reacts to Matt King's appointment as New South Wales coach, discussing why he's been trusted with the Blues job and what his leadership could bring to the Origin arena. The boys then examine whether any team outside the current top four can realistically win the premiership, make their weekly locks, upsets and match predictions, and discuss the Sharks' recent form, the race for the top eight, and the Perth Bears' latest recruitment moves ahead of their inaugural season. 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.

  6. Aug 3

    #307 – NRL | The Top 4 Just Sent a Message | The Worst Game We've Seen in

    If 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 top four teams made a statement in Round 23, with the Roosters, Panthers, Warriors and Sharks all delivering performances that reinforced why they're genuine premiership contenders. Ian and Steve break down the Roosters' extraordinary 82-point demolition of the Cowboys, why Nathan Cleary has taken his game to another level, and whether the gap between the competition's top four and the rest has become impossible to bridge. They also discuss the Warriors' passionate fanbase, the Sharks' impressive run of form, and which contender impressed them most over the weekend. The conversation also covers the Cowboys' response after their record defeat, whether the Storm and Broncos should be concerned about their futures, the race for the final spots in the eight, and why Parramatta vs Wests Tigers may have been one of the poorest NRL games in recent memory. The episode finishes with updated power rankings and a look ahead to a blockbuster weekend featuring Warriors vs Panthers and several season-defining clashes. 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.

  7. Jul 29

    #306 – Patrick Skene | Why Sport Is Bigger Than Religion

    If 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 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 Chief Creative Officer | Storyteller | Author | Curious Optimist | Jongleur | Sports | Substack Newsletter: SkeneInTheGame 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. 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.

  8. Jul 29

    #305 – NRL | We've Seen Enough... Cleary Wins the Dally M. Warriors Lock of the Week

    If 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: With just weeks remaining before the NRL finals, Ian and Steve tackle the biggest question in the competition: who will finish in the top four, and who can actually win the premiership? They break down the credentials of the Panthers, Roosters, Warriors and Sharks, analysing recent form, injuries, draw difficulty and why home finals could be the difference between lifting the trophy or falling short. The boys also debate Nathan Cleary's Dally M chances, discuss the Dragons' impressive recruitment drive for 2027, and examine which returning stars, including Felise Kaufusi, Kalyn Ponga and Jack Cogger, could have the biggest impact on the finals race. The episode wraps up with previews of the weekend's biggest clashes, including Panthers vs Raiders, Sharks vs Rabbitohs and Cowboys vs Roosters, before reflecting on Benji Marshall's leadership following the Adam Doueihi situation. Ian and Steve argue that Marshall's honesty, integrity and modern coaching style deserve more credit than they've received, offering a thoughtful discussion on leadership in today's NRL. 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.

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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.

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