The Mastering Podcast

The Mastering Team
  • 0.0 (0)
  • SPORTS

In a world obsessed with instant gratification and overnight success, Mastering… offers a refreshing antidote. We go beyond the surface-level stories and delve into the nitty-gritty of what it truly takes to master a craft. Mastering is a podcast that delves into the secrets of mastery by interviewing experts at the top of their game. Each episode features an in-depth conversation with a master from a different field, from artists and athletes to entrepreneurs and scientists. We'll explore their journeys, their mindsets, and the unique skills and strategies they've developed to achieve excellence. 

  1. JUL 18

    Mastering Speed: Unpacking Elite Sprint Performance with Reece Holder & Dr. Christopher Dale | Part Two

    Ever wondered what it takes to transform an athlete into a world-class performer? In this fascinating second part of our deep dive into mastering speed, our hosts Don Sanka Small and Will Tuffley uncover the revolutionary training methods behind Rhys Holder's emergence as one of Australia's fastest 400m runners ever. Dr Christopher Dell takes us behind the curtain of his cutting-edge training environment, where traditional approaches have been replaced by sophisticated measurement systems that precisely quantify athletic performance. From the Norwegian-engineered Muscle Lab system to American pneumatic resistance equipment from Kaiser, these tools aren't just fancy gadgets—they're reshaping how elite athletes train and perform. The results speak for themselves. Rhys recently clocked the fastest split ever by an Australian in the 4x400m relay at World Relays, an eye-popping 43-second performance that ranks among the top 25 splits globally in history. Even more impressively, after just three months with Chris's specialised equipment, Rhys' power output has skyrocketed from 3,000 watts to 4,500 watts, a trajectory that suggests extraordinary potential ahead. Beyond the track, we explore the challenging realities facing elite athletes in Australia. Despite his world-class performances, Rhys still works 30-35 hours weekly while balancing training and competition. Without employer support covering thousands in travel expenses, competing internationally would be financially impossible, raising important questions about how we develop and support our sporting talent. Whether you're a sports science enthusiast, a coach looking to innovate, or simply curious about what happens at the cutting edge of human performance, this episode offers rare insight into the technological revolution transforming athletics. Subscribe now to join the conversation about the future of sport and high performance. Send us a text Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

    35 min

  2. JUL 5

    Mastering Speed: Unpacking Elite Sprint Performance with Reece Holder & Dr. Christopher Dale | Part One

    The 400-meter sprint might be the most punishing event in track and field—a brutal combination of raw speed and lactic acid endurance that pushes athletes to their absolute limits. In this captivating conversation, our hosts Don Sanka Small and Magnus Olsen sit down with Australian Olympic sprinter Reece Holder and his coach, Dr. Christopher Dale. We dive deep into the physical and mental challenges of mastering this iconic distance. Reece takes us through the jaw-dropping reality of running the first 200 meters in under 21 seconds—a split that would win many standalone 200m races—before battling through what athletes call "the pain cave." As he candidly shares, "I just genuinely find it funny. I mean, I'm running these times and people are complaining about the weight and height that I am." Standing at 6'4" and 96kg, Holder represents a new paradigm for 400m runners, traditionally a leaner build. Dr. Dale offers fascinating insights into the science behind different athlete profiles—"flyers" versus "diesels"—and how coaching strategies must adapt to harness each athlete's unique strengths. His approach combines rigorous data analysis with a deep understanding of human psychology, creating a training environment where talent flourishes. The conversation provides a masterclass in resilience. Reece recounts how he overcame multiple serious injuries, missed international opportunities due to COVID, and continues to balance elite training with work and university studies. When Don asks about his competitive mindset, Reece shares a telling story of running through a torn hip flexor to win a national final at age 15, demonstrating the mental fortitude essential for success at the highest level. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or simply fascinated by high performance, this episode offers rare insights into what separates the elite from the merely excellent. The key takeaway? As Dr. Dale puts it when asked about the traits every athlete must possess: "Belief and hunger. I don't think you can have one without the other." Send us a text Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

    38 min

  3. JUN 18 · BONUS

    Is This AI’s iPhone Moment? | Builder AI’s Collapse + Apple’s AI Gamble: Mastering Technology with Lucas Meadowcroft and Don Sanka Small

    Our hosts, Don Sanka Small and Lucas Meadocroft, explore AI's potential "iPhone moment" as OpenAI and Johnny Ive collaborate on what could be the next revolutionary technology interface, while also examining practical AI implementation for businesses and the educational transformation needed to bridge the growing skills gap. Are we witnessing AI's "iPhone moment"? The tantalising partnership between OpenAI and design legend Johnny Ive promises to revolutionise how we interact with artificial intelligence through hardware. With OpenAI already dominating the software mindshare, this collaboration could deliver the next quantum leap in technology interfaces - something we haven't experienced since the iPhone's introduction 15 years ago. Yet amid the excitement, caution is warranted. The shocking Builder AI scandal reveals how a $1.4 billion company deceived top-tier investors by masking 700 human developers behind their supposedly "automated" platform. This Theranos-like revelation underscores the critical importance of transparency and proper due diligence in today's AI gold rush. For business leaders navigating this landscape, our practical advice cuts through the hype: focus on your specific pain points rather than chasing shiny objects. The most effective AI implementations start by identifying and addressing your team's frustrations. We've seen construction firms and law practices transform multi-day administrative processes into minutes-long operations using accessible tools that cost as little as $50. These implementations don't replace your team - they give them superpowers. The skills gap remains substantial, with McKinsey reporting that only 17% of executives feel prepared for AI integration. This explains the emergence of innovative education models like the MBA in Artificial Intelligence, designed to deliver applied, project-based learning that creates immediate business value. We also examine Apple's recent WWDC25 announcements, questioning whether the tech giant can reclaim its innovative edge after seemingly focusing more on stability than breakthrough advancements. Their continued promises around AI capabilities have largely failed to materialise, raising concerns about their position in the innovation race. Whether you're looking to implement AI solutions, upskill your team, or simply stay informed of rapid technological change, now is the perfect time to engage. Subscribe to our weekly tech deep dives and reach out if you're ready to harness AI's transformative potential for your business. Send us a text Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

    23 min

  4. JUN 8

    The Matilda Who Didn't Know the Matildas Existed | Mastering Sports with Amy Chapman

    What happens when a seven-year-old girl from country Australia decides she wants to play for the Socceroos? For Amy Chapman, it meant cutting her hair into an undercut and pretending to be a boy for years while playing in all-male teams. When puberty made that charade impossible, she discovered there was actually a national women's team – the Matildas – though she'd never heard of them before. Amy joins our hosts Magnus Olsen, Don Sanka and special guest and sports scientist, Tenzing Tsewang to share her remarkable journey from those humble beginnings to representing Australia internationally, with, commentating the Women's World Cup final to 1.2 billion viewers, and eventually pioneering in the medical technology space offers a fascinating window into personal resilience and the evolution of women's sport in Australia. "I got more money from Centrelink going to university than I did playing for the Matildas full-time," Amy reveals, highlighting the stark financial realities faced by female athletes even at the highest level. Despite suffering three ACL reconstructions and seven knee surgeries throughout her career, she persevered – balancing elite sport with education and eventually building a career in neurosurgical medical devices. The 2023 Women's World Cup proved transformative for the visibility of women's football in Australia. Amy, who was right in the thick of it as a commentator, observed how gender disappeared from the conversation: "There was no mention of gender. They were analyzing the game, critiquing players... That's what was so refreshing." This cultural shift has already translated into tangible results, with Football Queensland experiencing 180% growth in female participation. Now a board member for Football Queensland and founder of the Medical Technology Institute, Amy is helping shape the future of both women's sport and medical innovation while creating pathways for athletes transitioning to new careers. Her story demonstrates that sometimes the most powerful impact happens after the final whistle blows. Amy Chapman's journey from pretending to be a boy in country football to commentating the Women's World Cup final to 1.2 billion viewers demonstrates the remarkable evolution of women's football in Australia. Join us on this wide-ranging conversation about sports science, video analysis in coaching, women's football development, neurosurgery, and the critical importance of diverse role models for young athletes. Send us a text Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

    1h 22m

  5. MAY 10

    Unlock Your Mind: Mastering Mental Health and Breaking Down Stigmas with Dan Hunt

    ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of mental illness, addiction, trauma, and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. In this raw and revealing conversation, former NRL star Dan Hunt opens up about his journey from playing 150+ professional rugby league games to founding a national mental health movement that has trained over 500,000 Australians face-to-face. Growing up in a household marked by domestic violence, Dan found safety, identity, and purpose in rugby league. As his professional career flourished, he maintained the persona of the "happy-go-lucky" teammate while secretly battling inner demons. It wasn't until a devastating Achilles injury in 2010 that his carefully constructed façade began to crumble, leading to self-medication with painkillers, alcohol, and illicit drugs. Dan shares the pivotal moments that ultimately led to his diagnosis with type 2 bipolar disorder—from his mother's painful observation that he was "becoming his father" to a life-changing conversation with legendary coach Wayne Bennett. Rather than seeing his diagnosis as a setback, Dan describes it as "the books going back on the shelf in chronological order," finally making sense of his thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. The conversation dives deep into the often-misunderstood distinction between mental health and mental illness, exploring how organisations can move beyond token awareness initiatives to create genuinely supportive environments. Dan's Mental Health Workplace Blueprint offers a framework for identifying psychosocial hazards, implementing real solutions, and treating the causes rather than just the symptoms of mental health challenges. Most powerfully, Dan reveals his daily practices for mental fitness—ice baths, gratitude, exercise, connection, and regular "check-ups from the neck up" with his psychologist—while emphasising that everyone's journey is unique. For those currently struggling, he offers a heartfelt reminder: "Your struggles do matter... You may not see any light at the end of the tunnel at the moment, but it will pass." Whether you're managing a mental illness, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in optimising your own mental fitness, this episode offers practical wisdom from someone who's been through the darkness and emerged to help others find their way. 💡 Topics Covered: Mental health in elite sport and high-performance environmentsThe impact of injury, trauma, and undiagnosed illnessTransitioning from professional sport to a purpose-driven lifeThe difference between mental health and mental illnessBuilding mental fitness as part of your daily routinePractical strategies for supporting yourself and others📌 Disclaimer: The information in this episode is for general discussion and storytelling purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re struggling, please seek help from a qualified healthcare professional. 🛟 Support Services (Australia): Lifeline – 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.auBeyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.auSuicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | Send us a text Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

    1h 23m

  6. MAY 2 · BONUS

    Mastering Politics | Part Two with Michael Johnson and Phil DiBella | Beyond Election Day: The System We Deserve

    Dive into the second part of this raw, unfiltered analysis of Australia's political landscape ahead of a crucial federal election. Former MP Michael Johnson and coffee entrepreneur Philip de Bella pull back the curtain on why our political system consistently delivers mediocrity—and why it's ultimately our fault as voters. This episode addresses the painful truth that we have created a political environment where character assassination trumps vision, short-term popularity overrides long-term planning, and accountability is virtually nonexistent. As DiBella points out, "If a CEO failed to deliver what they promised after three years, they wouldn't even get an interview for another job"—yet politicians routinely break promises without facing consequences. We explore how Australia's leadership challenges reflect deeper systemic issues: the rise of career politicians with limited real-world experience, parliamentary privilege that shields politicians from defamation consequences, and election cycles that incentivise band-aid solutions over structural reform. The housing affordability crisis serves as a prime example, representing a simple supply-demand equation complicated by political unwillingness to tell voters uncomfortable truths. Perhaps most concerning is the revelation that talented young Australians are increasingly looking overseas to build businesses and careers, deterred by Australia's tax structure and policy instability. "My kids tell me they're not starting businesses in this country," shares de Bella, highlighting the generational consequences of our political failures. Whether you're politically engaged or completely disillusioned, this conversation offers valuable context for making your vote count. As Johnson urges, "Vote for Australia, not necessarily for yourself." The message is clear: until Australians demand better by holding their leaders accountable, we'll continue to get the political system we deserve. Send us a text Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

    1h 7m

  7. APR 24

    Mastering Politics | Beyond the Ballot: What Voters Need to Know Before Election Day with Phil Di Bella and Michael Johnson

    When was the last time you truly understood what you were voting for? In this eye-opening conversation with former federal MP Michael Johnson and renowned entrepreneur Philip Di Bella, we pull back the curtain on Australia's political landscape and examine how the upcoming federal election could reshape our nation's future. Democracy isn't always what it seems. Our guests reveal how Australia's preferential voting system can result in candidates who receive fewer primary votes ultimately winning seats—something most voters don't fully grasp when casting their ballots. "We are a country of contradiction," Di Bella observes, highlighting how our political structures often create outcomes at odds with voter intentions. The discussion takes a fascinating turn when examining the economic backbone of Australia. With 9.9 million Australians employed by small and medium businesses (compared to just 3 million in government), why do politicians making decisions about business regulations often have zero experience running a company? We explore how escalating costs are crushing hospitality businesses, with labour expenses jumping from 30-35% pre-COVID to an unsustainable 45-55% today. As international tensions rise, our guests offer thought-provoking insights on Australia's precarious position between the US and China—what Di Bella calls "trying to ride two bicycles at the same time." Johnson delivers a sobering warning about defence spending and national security that should concern every Australian thinking about the future. Perhaps most revealing is the stark contrast between business and political accountability. In business, leaders who fail to deliver on promises face consequences. In politics, failed promises lead to attacking opponents rather than accepting responsibility—a cycle that undermines meaningful progress. Whether you're politically engaged or feeling disillusioned with the whole system, this conversation will transform how you view Australian politics. Join us for this candid, non-partisan exploration of what really matters as we approach a watershed election that will shape our collective future. Subscribe to the Mastering Podcast for more thought-provoking conversations on the issues that matter most to Australians. Your vote is powerful—but only when cast with understanding. Check out the Coffee Commune here. Check out The Mastering Podcast on YouTube here. Send us a text Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

    57 min
  8. Lynnsanity Unleashed: From Cricket Pitch to Purposeful Leadership | Australian Cricket Powerhouse Chris Lynn

    APR 10

    Lynnsanity Unleashed: From Cricket Pitch to Purposeful Leadership | Australian Cricket Powerhouse Chris Lynn

    The smashing sound of cricket balls flying over boundaries may have made Chris Lynn famous, but it's his journey beyond the cricket pitch that reveals his most impressive talents. In this captivating conversation, the explosive Australian batsman opens up about transforming from a rugby league prospect to one of cricket's most feared T20 batsmen—despite multiple career-threatening shoulder reconstructions. Lynn pulls back the curtain on the mental game that elite athletes must master, sharing how visualization techniques and proper breathing helped him maintain confidence through performance slumps. "If I miss out, don't get itchy feet," he explains about his batting mindset. "I say I'm not out of form – I'm one game closer to the man of the match." This perspective has enabled him to remain one of cricket's premier power hitters while balancing family life and business ventures. Chris Lynn shares his transformative journey from elite T20 cricketer to purposeful leader as the founder of Playbook Coach, a platform connecting athletes with quality coaching across 32 different sports. • Evolution from Test cricket aspirations to becoming a T20 powerhouse due to injuries and attraction to the shorter format • Mental resilience strategies including visualization, breathing techniques, and positive framing of performance slumps • The physical toll of multiple shoulder reconstructions that forced adaptation in his playing style • Insights into global T20 franchise cricket and predictions about cricket's future in America • Creation of Playbook Coach as a way to democratize access to quality sports coaching • Challenges of transitioning from professional athlete to entrepreneur while still competing at an elite level • The importance of balancing a cricket career with family life and business ventures The conversation shifts from cricket fields to entrepreneurial pitches as Lynn reveals the story behind Playbook Coach, his platform connecting aspiring athletes with quality coaching across 32 different sports. "It's like Uber for sports coaches," Lynn explains, driven by his passion to provide others with the mentoring opportunities that shaped his career. The platform addresses a critical gap in sports development while helping athletes transition beyond their playing days. Whether discussing the evolution of cricket, breaking down the art of hitting sixes, or sharing insights about entrepreneurship, Lynn brings the same explosive energy to conversation that cricket fans worldwide have witnessed on the field. Join us for this fascinating exploration of athletic excellence, purposeful leadership, and giving back to the sports that shape us. Ready to master your own game? This episode delivers the coaching you need. Check out Playbook Coach to find quality coaching in your area or to offer your expertise to the next generation of athletes. Send us a text Want more? Find us on You Tube, Instagram, X, and TikTok where we share bonus content and engage with our listeners. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to life. ❤️

    1h 19m
See All (14)

Trailer

About

In a world obsessed with instant gratification and overnight success, Mastering… offers a refreshing antidote. We go beyond the surface-level stories and delve into the nitty-gritty of what it truly takes to master a craft. Mastering is a podcast that delves into the secrets of mastery by interviewing experts at the top of their game. Each episode features an in-depth conversation with a master from a different field, from artists and athletes to entrepreneurs and scientists. We'll explore their journeys, their mindsets, and the unique skills and strategies they've developed to achieve excellence. 

Information

  • Creator
    The Mastering Team
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Mastering Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Mastering Podcast