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

    #306 – NRL | 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.

  2. 1d ago

    #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.

  3. 3d ago

    #304 – NRL | Are the Warriors Running Out of Steam? Tigers Chaos Gets Worse

    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 Wests Tigers' turmoil dominates this episode as Ian and Steve unpack the Adam Doueihi saga and what it says about the club's future. They discuss whether the reported disagreement over his role is really the issue, or simply the latest symptom of deeper problems within the organisation. The boys debate whether Doueihi has any future at the Tigers, which clubs could be interested if he leaves, and what the ongoing drama means for Benji Marshall's rebuild and a fanbase desperate for stability. The conversation then shifts to the Warriors and Panthers, who have both hit a flat patch at a crucial stage of the season. Ian and Steve examine whether heavy training loads, Origin fatigue and key injuries have caught up with the competition leaders, while also questioning whether the Warriors have blown their chance of securing a top-two finish and the huge advantage of hosting a preliminary final in New Zealand. The episode also features Will's latest statistical analysis on ruck infringements, injury trends and squad depth before finishing with a look at the Raiders' late finals charge and reviews of the biggest games from the weekend. 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. Jul 21

    #303 – NRL | Who Owns the NRL's Future? Warriors Dynasty, Dragons Rise & Roosters Tested

    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 the NRL finals race heating up, Ian and Steve ask whether the Sydney Roosters have finally done enough to prove they're genuine premiership contenders. After quietly putting together one of the competition's most consistent seasons, the boys analyse why the Roosters may be perfectly positioned for a deep finals run, highlighting their improved resilience, key players returning from injury, and the importance of finishing inside the top four. They also debate whether Penrith and the Warriors remain the teams to beat, or if the Roosters are ready to challenge for the title. The episode also celebrates some of the NRL's most underrated players, including Dylan Lucas, Reuben Cotter, Connor Watson, Eron Clark, Reed Mahoney and several others whose contributions often go unnoticed despite their importance to their clubs. The conversation then shifts to the clubs with the brightest futures, with the Warriors, Dragons, Raiders, Knights and Panthers all discussed for their elite pathways, young talent and long-term planning. Finally, the boys preview a huge weekend of football, headlined by Roosters vs Knights and Cowboys vs Broncos, with every result carrying significant finals implications. 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. Jul 20

    #302 – NRL | Warriors Gifted Another Win?! Broncos Are Back... Panthers Exposed?

    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: Controversy takes centre stage as Ian and Steve dissect one of the most debated rounds of the NRL season. The Warriors' dramatic win over the Dragons sparks a passionate discussion about refereeing consistency, with the hosts questioning several pivotal decisions while also acknowledging the Warriors' outstanding forward pack and resilience. They also examine whether the Broncos' impressive victory over Penrith signals a genuine late-season resurgence or whether it's simply arrived too late to salvage their finals hopes. Meanwhile, the Panthers' recent form raises an intriguing question: are cracks finally beginning to appear in the competition's benchmark club? Beyond the weekend's biggest headlines, the episode explores the Knights' narrow defeats and why they're still considered a genuine finals threat, Melbourne's growing injury concerns, and the impact Origin can have on player performance both physically and mentally. The boys also praise the emergence of the Titans' exciting young spine, debate the Dolphins' finals credentials, update their Power Rankings, and analyse how the changing interpretation of NRL rules may have reshaped the premiership race over the second half of the 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. Jul 15

    #301 – Who REALLY Won the Luai Deal?

    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 Jerome Luai saga is finally over, but the debate is only just beginning. Ian and Steve unpack Luai's confirmed move to Parramatta, discussing what it means for the Eels, the Wests Tigers and the long-term future of both clubs. Rather than judging the signing purely on wins and losses, they explore Luai's value as a cultural leader, the importance of developing young talent, and whether Parramatta's recruitment strategy is part of a bigger plan. They also examine the Tigers' rebuild under Benji Marshall and ask whether leadership can sometimes leave a legacy that isn't immediately reflected on the ladder. The episode also features a special interview with passionate Dragons supporter Ly, who shares his thoughts on Shane Flanagan's departure, why Dean Young deserves the head coaching role, and why St George fans finally have genuine reasons for optimism. The conversation expands into the race for the Top 8, with Melbourne's injury crisis prompting the hosts to officially rule the Storm out of premiership contention. They also identify the NRL coaches facing the most pressure heading into 2027 and discuss which clubs are best positioned to challenge for success over the next few seasons. 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 12

    #300 – NZ Origin? Luai's Future & Our Finals Predictions

    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 State of Origin dust has settled, and Ian and Steve turn their attention to the biggest stories shaping the NRL season. The headline discussion centres on Jerome Luai's uncertain future, the fallout at the Wests Tigers, and the reported move to Parramatta. Rather than focusing solely on results, they examine Luai's long-term influence on culture, leadership and player development, while questioning whether the Eels' recruitment strategy aligns with their stated vision. They also revisit the Sharks' impressive form, debate whether they're genuine premiership contenders, and discuss which clubs are building momentum at the right time of the season. The episode also explores one of the most exciting expansion ideas in rugby league—a New Zealand North vs South representative clash. Ian and Steve reveal two stacked squads featuring the best Kiwi talent in the NRL and explain why the concept could become one of the biggest events on the rugby league calendar. They finish by predicting the final Top 8, Top 4, minor premiers, Dally M winner, Coach of the Year and Premiership winner, analysing the strengths, weaknesses and run home of every genuine finals contender as the race towards September intensifies. 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 8

    #299 – Origin Review: Nathan Cleary's Legacy, My Apology to Laurie Daley & The Refereeing Debate

    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: State of Origin III delivered one of the most dominant New South Wales performances in recent memory, and Ian and Steve break down exactly why the Blues finally got the job done. From Nathan Cleary's masterclass and Laurie Daley's tactical turnaround to the relentless middle-forward dominance led by Mitch Barnett, Payne Haas and Liam Martin, they analyse the key moments that silenced a packed Suncorp Stadium and secured the series. The discussion also explores how NSW simplified their game plan, won the ruck, and executed under pressure when it mattered most. The conversation also tackles the biggest talking points surrounding the decider, including controversial refereeing decisions, Queensland's uncharacteristic mistakes, Billy Slater's interchange strategy, and whether Nathan Cleary has now cemented himself among the greatest players to ever wear the Blues jersey. Ian even delivers a public apology to Laurie Daley after questioning his selections throughout the series. To finish the episode, the boys preview every Round 19 NRL match, discuss Origin player backups, highlight the games to watch, and make their weekly predictions, locks and upset picks for another huge weekend of rugby league. 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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Ratings & Reviews

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Ian Hawkins
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    300
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Ian Hawkins
  • Show Website
    Sport Is Life