Episoder
-
Send us a text
Erin Cafaro, a former elite athlete turned neuropsychologist, joins us to share the incredible journey sparked by her father's diagnosis with vascular dementia. She opens up about the powerful influence of personal experiences on career transitions, illustrating how curiosity and passion can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths. Listeners will learn how Erin's early life in a small California town and the male-focused sports culture set the stage for her career in rowing, ultimately leading her to national and Olympic teams.
From the significance of Title IX in her rowing journey to the importance of emotional balance, Erin's candid reflections offer guidance for athletes seeking fulfillment beyond their competitive careers. The conversation highlights the necessity of recovery and personal growth, taking into account how understanding one's past can empower future endeavors.
Tune in to learn more about:- Why and how early-life challenges often fuel athletes' ambition and, sometimes become a double-edged sword.
- The psychological and emotional toll of stepping off the podium and the journey to redefine one’s self-worth and purpose beyond achievement.
- Why it’s difficult for athletes to publicly acknowledge mental health struggles and why open discussions are crucial for healing.
- How athletic discipline impacts cognitive resilience and contributes to mental toughness.
- The challenges and rewards of transitioning from a performance-oriented mindset to a more academic one
- Insights into her current work in clinical psychology research on how athletes cope with life off the podium
- Erin’s perspective on resilience, recovery, and the value of community support in overcoming life’s setbacks.
…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
-
Send us a text
What happens when a BMX champion swaps the adrenaline rush of biking for the tranquil greens of golf? Join us as Josh, a former professional BMX athlete, narrates this unlikely transformation. After a brain tumor diagnosis, Josh reevaluated his life priorities and took the bold step to transition into a sport where every swing is both a challenge and a chance for growth. Discover how BMX's demand for adaptability and mental focus parallels the world of golf, providing new avenues for fulfillment and self-expression.
Tune in to learn more about:
- Why true mastery isn’t about perfection, but about constant growth; mentally, physically, and emotionally.- The surprising parallels between BMX and golf, and how golf became a source of healing and purpose for Josh.
- Exploring the surprising parallels between the two sports
- Josh’s raw account of surviving brain tumors and navigating the emotional toll of loss.
- How sponsorship pressures and public expectations shaped Josh’s sense of self, and how he rediscovered his worth beyond sports.
- His powerful advocacy for mental health, metabolic health, and a balanced, mindful approach to wellness.
…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
Website: https://www.joshperrybmx.com/
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshperrybmx/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/joshperrybmx
-
Manglende episoder?
-
Send us a text
Imagine balancing rigorous training with law school, missing out on the Olympics by just one spot, and still building a legal career that has taken Australia by storm. Today, Ryan is joined by Andrew Mewing, a former Australian swimmer turned co-founder and partner of a leading law firm Batch Mewing Lawyers specializing in construction and employment law, who shares a riveting tale of reinvention.
Andrew takes us back to his early athletic days, starting as a promising rugby player in Southeast Queensland. An unexpected detour due to injuries led him to uncover his hidden swimming talents, eventually bringing him to the brink of Olympic qualification. Balancing the demands of a dual degree in commerce and law with a burgeoning swimming career, Andrew's tale is a testament to the importance of systems over goals and the support network that fueled his dual pursuits. Discover how Andrew's academic dedication and competitive spirit shaped his ambitions, providing a foundation for his future success.
Tune in to learn more about:- How Andrew balanced sports and academics while swimming for Australia and studying law at the University of Queensland.
- The inspiration behind Batch Mewing Lawyers and its growth from a two-person startup to a 30-person team across Australia.
- A sneak peek into Relative Age Effect, how it impacted Andrew’s early athletic career and how he overcame it.
- The surprising parallels between swimming laps and legal strategy
- The Importance of leaning on your Support Network and how Andrew's family and friends played a vital role in his journey from sport to law.
…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewmewinglaw
Website: https://www.batchmewing.com.au
-
Send us a text
How do athletes' skills on the field translate into successful franchise ownership? In this episode, we sit down with franchisee broker James Hilovsky from California. James shares his unique insights on the natural fit between athletes and franchising, explaining how the structure, teamwork, and coaching inherent in sports prepare athletes for franchise entrepreneurship. You'll learn why athletes' self-confidence and risk-taking abilities often lead them to outperform their corporate peers in the entrepreneurial world.
James takes us through his comprehensive process as a franchise consultant, walking us through each step he takes to match athletes with the perfect franchise opportunities. From assessing industry interests and investment levels to choosing between owner-operator or manager-led models, James provides a detailed look at the fundamentals of franchising, including initial fees, royalties, and marketing costs. Using a hypothetical scenario of a former pro athlete, he illustrates how he guides clients to make informed decisions that align with their goals and aspirations.
Tune in to learn more about:- The step-by-step process of launching a franchise, from that first call to signing the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
- Insider tips on evaluating a franchisor’s support system and navigating the FDD.
- Why athletes have a unique edge in the franchising world, and how you can leverage it.
- How to validate a franchise opportunity, including what questions to ask existing franchisees.
- Realistic expectations, common misconceptions and pitfalls in franchising, and how to stay proactive in your business journey.
- A sneak peek into examples of franchises athletes are conquering, from fitness centers to niche services like dog poop cleanup.
- Why athletes often find more satisfaction in the autonomy and challenges of running their own business.
…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
Website: https://www.thefrandream.com
Linkedln:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-frandream/
Email: [email protected]
-
Send us a text
From Triple Jumping in Jamaica to sprinting up the ranks in the tech industry, today’s guest has mastered the art of reinvention. As a former Jamaican World and Commonwealth Games track and field star, Damon McLean competed alongside some of the best, pushing his limits on the global stage. He is no stranger to high stakes and high performance; he has faced some of the toughest competition worldwide.
But when his spikes came off, his story was far from over. Damon has seamlessly transitioned into the fast-paced world of tech sales, where he now leads teams with the same focus and determination that made him a standout athlete. From chasing Commonwealth Games dreams to climbing the ranks in tech, Damon’s story is one of grit, reinvention, and following his passion.
Are you seeking inspiration on how to navigate life's pivot points, this episode is for you!
Tune in to learn more about:
- His powerful story of navigating the highs and lows of competitive athletics and the unexpected twists that led him to a new career in the corporate world.
- The Athlete’s Mindset in Business, how the lessons learned on the track: discipline, resilience, and focus translate to leading in the tech industry.
- Balancing his passion for sports with the realities of life after athletics.
- Damon’s journey into the tech world, the skills he’s applied, and how Damon leveraged curiosity and continuous learning to find new opportunities outside of sports.
- The importance of seeking mentorship and how informational interviews and curiosity helped Damon grow in his new field.
- Practical advice for anyone navigating career transitions and personal reinvention.…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonmclean
-
Send us a text
Ever feel like the sidelines of youth sports are more of a battlefield than a fun space? Between stressed-out coaches, over-involved parents, and young athletes caught in the middle, finding a balance can seem impossible. In this episode, Ryan sits down with Skye Eddy, a former elite goalkeeper and the visionary behind Soccer Parenting, to unravel the unspoken struggles of youth sports. Skye has transformed her challenges into a mission, pulling back the curtain on the complex dynamics between parents, coaches, and young players.
What began as a mother’s quest to support her daughter’s high-performance soccer career became a full-scale movement to empower parents in youth sports. Skye shares how her platform, Soccer Parenting is reshaping this space by fostering collaboration, communication, and mutual respect among all stakeholders. From her experiences on the field to her insights from the boardroom, Skye reveals what it takes to ensure that kids not only stay engaged in sports but also thrive emotionally and mentally.
If you’re passionate about making sports a healthier, more inspiring experience for your child, this conversation is a must!
Tune in to learn more about:
Behind-the-scenes stories of Skye’s time playing overseas, the highs and lows of chasing a national team dream, and how these experiences shaped her view on youth sports. The birth of Soccer Parenting and how it’s revolutionizing the relationship between parents and coaches for the benefit of young athletes.Practical tips for keeping kids passionate about sports without adding pressure.Highlights the common stresses parents and coaches face in youth sports, and how Soccer Parenting helps address these issuesSkye’s reflections on vulnerability, honesty, and the importance of strong support systems during tough career moments.Nuggets on how parents and coaches can work together to ensure that sports remain a positive, enriching experience while maintaining boundaries and balance.…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
Website: https://www.soccerparenting.com
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/soccerparenting
X: https://twitter.com/SoccerParenting
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skye-eddy/
-
Send us a text
What happens when a promising football career is suddenly cut short and the real world comes calling? In this episode, Malvin Kamara reveals the untold story of his rise and fall in professional football, and how the same drive that once fueled him on the field helped him reinvent himself as a successful entrepreneur. From playing for top clubs like Cardiff City and Huddersfield Town to facing the harsh realization that his football career wasn’t forever, Malvin takes us on a rollercoaster of ambition, failure, and ultimate redemption.
But this is not just another career pivot story. From the intensity of the football pitch to the relentless grind of entrepreneurship, Malvin shares the gritty details of life after football: navigating financial struggles, working odd jobs, and finding himself door-knocking in rural Yorkshire before his breakthrough moment in business. Now, as the CEO of Valum Associates, a recruitment firm with a bold vision for success, along the way, he navigated financial struggles, personal challenges, and the daunting leap into an industry he knew nothing about, and he’s here to tell you exactly how he did it.
This is more than just a transition story; it's a blueprint for anyone looking to rise from the ashes of a failed dream and create a new legacy. Prepare for a candid, inspiring, and brutally honest conversation that will leave you questioning: when your first dream dies, what’s your next move?
Tune in to learn more about:
- Malvin's passion for football as a child fueled a singular focus, his dreams entirely consumed by the vision of becoming a professional footballer.
- How Malvin’s football career shaped his competitive edge and prepared him for entrepreneurial life.
- The defining moment that led him to shift gears into the business realm and how he navigated early struggles
- His step-by-step journey from financial struggles and odd jobs to launching and scaling a successful recruitment company across international markets.
- Candid insights about the importance of resilience, having the right support network, and knowing when to shift gears in pursuit of long-term success.
- The challenges of building an international business and why resilience is key.
Personal insights on the sacrifices and lessons learned along the way to entrepreneurial success.
…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malvinkamara/
Website: https://vallumassociates.com/
-
Send us a text
In today’s episode, we dive into the mind of Myriam Robitaille, a Canadian professional beach volleyball player who is redefining what it means to be an athlete. For Myriam, sport is more than just physical prowess; it’s a mental battlefield that pushes the limits of the human spirit. From being scouted at 14 to dominating the indoor volleyball scene, Myriam’s journey has been one of intense physical and mental challenges. The routine of the sport, relentless training, and emotional isolation in Europe left her craving something more.
Her bold pivot to beach volleyball wasn’t just a change of scenery—it was a deliberate step into the unknown, where unpredictable elements like wind and sand demand constant adaptation. In this space, Myriam found her edge, not through brute strength, but through deep mental resilience. Alongside her athletic career, Myriam is thriving as a recruiter at Zeffy, a fast-growing tech startup that supports non-profits through innovative fundraising, satisfying her intellectual hunger in an environment just as intense as her sporting life.
Tune in to Learn more about:- How Myriam’s transition from indoor to beach volleyball reignited her passion and adaptability.
- Parallels between transitioning from sales to recruitment and from one sport to another.
- The critical role of mental toughness and the importance of working with a mental coach to excel under pressure.
- Strategies for staying motivated and avoiding burnout when passion starts to feel repetitive.
- The significance of mindfulness and presence in overcoming challenges.
- How Myriam’s feedback approach in recruitment mirrors her athletic mindset, emphasizing immediate adjustments for success.
- Her unique strategy for harmonizing dual careers to excel in both arenas.
…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myriamrob
Linkedln: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myriamr-?
4o -
Send us a text
In honor of LGBTQ History Month, Ryan is excited to speak with David Watters, an LGBTQ+ rugby player, innovation consultant, and business coach based in the UK. While many of our guests transition from sports to other fields, David's story is unique: he transitioned from the boardroom to the rugby pitch. Now playing for the Airmill Warriors, David is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. As an innovator and startup accelerator, he specializes in integrating new technologies into transportation and city infrastructure.
David’s journey marks a significant shift since he first joined LGBTQ rugby. From its humble beginnings with the Kings Cross Steelers in 1995, the International Gay Rugby (IGR) movement has blossomed into a global network of over 100 teams. This growth highlights the broader trend of incorporating diversity and inclusion within traditional rugby clubs and across the sports world.
David’s expertise in building successful sports and corporate teams is evident. He draws insightful parallels between his sports experience and his innovation work, offering practical tips for creating inclusive environments. He emphasizes how rugby clubs can foster a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Tune in to learn more about:
- David's innovative career trajectory and his transition into rugby
- His initial challenges and feelings of exclusion when starting in the sport
- Reflections on traditional rugby cultures and the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ players
- The expansion of the International Gay Rugby (IGR) movement and its impact on creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ players
- The importance of team mentality, recognizing individual strengths, and building a supportive culture
- How the IGR movement has influenced traditional rugby clubs and broader inclusivity in sports
- Practical steps clubs should embrace to foster inclusivity
- David's insightful analogy between sports and business leadership, and the benefits of applying sports lessons to the corporate world and vice versa
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.ioLinks:
Davids Linkedln:https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidcwatters
Website: https://igrugby.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igrclubhouse/
-
Send us a text
What if the toughest streets of Stonebridge, Northwest London, were the unlikely training ground for a future Olympian and corporate leader? In this episode, Ryan dives deep into the life and career of Marilyn Okoro, a British track & field athlete, 800m specialist, and Athlete Welfare Change Maker. She represented Great Britain at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where she was part of the 4x400m relay team that won a bronze medal (upgraded to silver in 2016).
From a young girl with a passion for running to becoming one of the world's elite athletes, Marilyn’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and transformation, shedding light on the realities of pursuing excellence in sports and the profound challenges faced during and after an athletic career. Known for her resilience and candidness, Marilyn has become an advocate for athlete welfare and mental health, working to ensure the holistic well-being of sportspeople beyond their competitive careers.
Tune in to learn more about:
Reflections of her transitioning from Sport to Corporate Life Emphasizes on the significance of role models and mentors who champion your growth and vision How the boldness required in athletics (facing stadiums full of spectators) translates into the corporate environment. Juggling her athletic career with academic commitments and the importance of maintaining a beautiful balance between sports and education. The stages of retirement she experienced: logical, physical, and emotional, and how each played a role in her journeyThe emotional and psychological aspects of retiring from sports and nuggets on how to navigate life that life season,…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/marilynokorooly
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/marilynokorooly
-
Send us a text
What happens when an Olympian transitions from competing on the world stage to tackling global challenges like climate change? Join us as we welcome Hannah Campbell-Pegg, a former Australian Olympian in Luge, who shares her riveting journey from competing in the 2006 and 2010 Winter Olympic Games to her current life balancing a PhD, motherhood, and a career in sustainability. Hannah opens up about her unexpected foray into winter sports, which began with a friend's suggestion and led her from the beaches of Australia to icy luge tracks worldwide.
Hannah was known not only for her athletic achievements but also for her leadership, serving as the head of Luge Australia for over a decade. Even after retiring from competition, Campbell-Pegg continued to contribute to the sport, playing a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of Australian lugers, making her an inspiring figure both on and off the track.Tune In To Learn more about:
Her intriguing path to the Winter Olympics Hannah's thrill of competing at the highest level and the challenges of pursuing a winter sport as an Australian Highlights on the sense of a close-knit community among athletic peers and how to leverage itThe stark contrast of living in a desert climate in Dubai after years of winter sportsSneak peek into her PhD on the impact of climate change on Winter SportsThe joy in her teaching pursuit and how it complemented her life as an athlete Hannah’s disciplined approach to training and life and how it has immensely guided her life after sports…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-campbell-pegg-oly-
X: https://x.com/HCampbellPegg
-
Send us a text
What does it take to skateboard at 100 kilometers per hour down treacherous terrains while breaking gender barriers? Join Ryan today as he sits down with Anna Pixner, Austria’s fastest woman on skateboards. Anna is a two-time world champion in downhill speed skateboarder, coach, writer, and advocate for greater recognition and equality for women in extreme sports. Known for her technical prowess and fearless approach to some of the most challenging mountain roads, Anna has mastered the art of navigating hairpin turns at breakneck speeds - all while advocating for greater recognition and equality for women in this male-dominated sport.
From a shy, thrill-seeking child to a world-class athlete who pushes her limits of both physical and mental endurance, Anna turned her passion for extreme sports into a mission to amplify female representation in extreme sports. She desires to make a broader impact, not just within the sport but also in encouraging people to step out of their comfort zones and embrace challenges. She uses her platform to inspire the next generation of athletes, challenge stereotypes, and promote a more inclusive portrayal of women in extreme sports by offering workshops, coaching, and creating her own high-quality media content.
Tune in to learn more about:
What led Anna to discover her love for downhill speed skating and her first impression of this extreme sportThe gender disparities, the lack of female representation in extreme sports, and the role the media plays in perpetuating stereotypes. A sneak peek of the different styles within the sport, including racing and free riding, and the technical skills required to navigate steep, challenging mountain roads.Why it’s harder for female athletes than their male counterparts in extreme sportsThe psychological aspects of downhill skating and how she uses mental strength to manage fear and push her limits on the track.How Anna is championing female athletes in media to challenge stereotypes and encourage a more inclusive portrayal of women in extreme sports.…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
Website:https://www.annapixner.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annapixner
-
Send us a text
Staciana, a gold medalist from the Sydney 2000 Olympics, shares her journey from a determined young athlete to teaching, coaching and becoming an author of The Stolen Dance An Olympian’s Perpetual Search for Healing from Trauma and Grief.
Staciana also opens up about the emotional rollercoaster following her Olympic triumphs. Learn about her struggles with depression and injury, and how therapy, journaling, and a return to the water helped her navigate these challenges.
This episode is an exploration of athlete transition, the importance of mental health support, and finding purpose beyond the pool. Join us for an inspiring conversation that underscores the power of resilience, community, and personal growth.
Tune in to learn more about:- How she came to develop true athleticism in water and the role a positive peer environment had in the same
- The importance of mental resilience and psychological strength in athletics.
- How post-Olympic stress syndrome affects athletes and ways to help athletes build physical and psychological resilience.
- Her journey of love & loss and how gratitude was the muscle that brought her to post-traumatic growth
- The power of mentorship and community in overcoming personal and professional challenges.
…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out
www.2ndwind.io
Links:
Website: https://www.bigwinenergy.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stacianaw?igsh=
Staciana’s book:
Stolen Dance: An Olympian’s Perpetual Search for Healing from Trauma and Grief: https://a.co/d/5RUxEk0
-
Send us a text
In today's episode, Ryan dives deep with Jori Davis, a seasoned professional basketball player turned entrepreneur, whose journey spans over 13 years, nine countries, and four continents. From the early days in New Orleans, Davis realized the importance of independence and self-reliance, especially in the competitive world of sports that crafted her into a strong advocate for athletes rights.
After experiencing the challenges and frustrations of negotiating sports contracts through agents and partners who often underpaid athletes, she realized the need for a platform that could bridge the gap between athletes and the support they deserve. This inspiration led her to create WeVolv, a digital community where athletes can connect, share experiences, and access opportunities directly, without the need for intermediaries who might not always have their best interests at heart. Through WeVolv, Jori has become a pivotal figure in the sports industry, advocating for fair treatment, better support, and enhanced opportunities for athletes worldwide.
What causes the lack of transparency of information and fair compensation in the sporting industry Her sporting journey from the grassroots to professional basketball European vs American sporting system Joris’s journey to self-discovery and adaptation as she played in different places around the globeInfluence of the female mentors in crafting her sporting and entrepreneurial career Pushing schools to build out ecosystems that help athletes better their perspective How new vision for athletes empowerment and how it is impacting athletes
Tune in to learn more about:…and so much more!
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out
www.2ndwind.io
Links:
Website: https://wevolv.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joridavis32
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jori-davis-0a16a75a?utm_source
https://www.linkedin.com/company/wevolv/
-
Send us a text
Imagine having your dreams shattered by physical pain and emotional turmoil, only to find a new path that offers profound fulfillment. That's exactly what happened to our guest, Baden, a former professional rugby player whose career was marked by broken fingers, concussions, and the discovery of arthritis. Baden shares his compelling journey from the rugby fields to the classroom, detailing how he navigated the challenges of injury and the difficult decision to retire. He then reveals how he found a new purpose through teaching, working as a teaching assistant, coaching rugby, and starting a successful kicking business.
Throughout this episode, we'll uncover the critical role that support systems played in Baden’s academic and athletic achievements, with touching anecdotes about influential figures like his long-term partner and his mother, a deputy principal, who kept him grounded and focused. Baden talks about his incredible shift from soccer to rugby at the age of 15, driven by obsessive dedication and a mentor who saw his potential. Join us as and listen to Baden's transformative journey, which offers valuable lessons on perseverance, adaptability, and finding freedom after facing life's toughest moments.
Get in Touch with Us:
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io -
Send us a text
What happens when a career in professional sports comes to an abrupt end? Meet George Taylor, a retired Scottish rugby player who faced this exact dilemma. George shares his inspiring journey from the rugby field to the world of finance, detailing how he navigated this significant life transition. He talks about the lessons he learned from his athletic career, which unexpectedly ended at 25 due to severe head injuries, and how these lessons have shaped his success in his family’s business and his pursuit of accountancy.
Transitioning careers after such a young retirement is no easy feat, yet George's proactive approach sets a powerful example. From gaining qualifications in personal training and coaching to finding his place in the family business, he shares the emotional and practical strategies that have helped him succeed. Discover how maintaining connections with former teammates and translating the ethos of team sports into business management has been pivotal in his journey. George's experience underscores the value of self-belief and the critical need to prepare for life beyond professional sports.
Connect with George on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_georgetaylor_
Get in Touch with Us:
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io -
Send us a text
This week on the 2ND Wind Academy podcast we welcome Will Hooley, who shares his journey from the rugby field to becoming a technical director for Major League Rugby in the United States. Will opens up about his reluctance to follow conventional career paths and how his passion for storytelling led him to this new and exciting profession. Listen in to gain insight on the importance of finding joy in new endeavors and how blending on-field performance with off-field interests laid the groundwork for his post-rugby life.
Transitioning from an elite athlete to a career in journalism and broadcasting is no small feat, and Will’s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability. He reflects on his career highs and lows, the significance of having a backup plan, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines an athlete's life. From overcoming career-threatening injuries to seizing opportunities in media, Will shares invaluable lessons for anyone facing a career change. Tune in to hear about the power of networking, building confidence in the corporate world, and strategically preparing for life after sports.
Get in Touch with Us:
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io -
Send us a text
Georgia, an outstanding netball player from New Zealand, transitioned from a mixed-sport upbringing to achieving International status at 24. She opens up about her journey, sharing the trials, triumphs, and the relentless perseverance that propelled her to where she is today. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the life of an athlete who found joy and fulfillment in playing for love rather than pressure.
Georgia also shares her deep connection to her Maori heritage and how it shapes her identity beyond the court. We dive into her academic pursuits in clinical psychology and what it means to balance a rigorous schedule of training, work, and studies. Her role as a sports coordinator and the support from her family, friends, and two rescue dogs play a crucial part in her life.
We explore Georgia’s professional career, which kicked off amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and how she balanced the adrenaline of playing in front of large crowds with personal aspirations, such as opening a holistic clinic and planning a family. Her journey from facing rejections to achieving a co-captaincy and securing a contract with the Magic team is both inspiring and practical. This episode is packed with valuable insights on managing life's multifaceted demands while pursuing one's passion and dreams. Tune in!
Get in Touch with Us:
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
-
Send us a text
How does a college athlete pivot from sports to a successful career in IT and entrepreneurship? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Gage Yesbeck, a former college basketball player whose competitive spirit led him to an unexpected acting role on the Apple TV show "Swagger," produced by Kevin Durant. Gage offers invaluable advice for athletes contemplating life after sports, including the importance of internships, networking, and applying oneself across different fields.
We explore the rigorous balance between athletics and academics, recounting Gage's own hurdles like a significant injury, a gap year, and transferring schools—all while being a first-generation college student. Gage reflects on the profound impact of education and the necessity of having a backup plan, sharing personal milestones such as meeting his future spouse during his collegiate journey. His story is a testament to the resilience needed to navigate both athletic and academic paths.
Transitioning from college to a corporate life comes with its own set of challenges, and Gage dives into the emotional toll of job hunting post-graduation. He stresses the importance of networking and persistence, sharing his path from securing his first IT job to achieving notable career growth. Listen as Gage discusses the broader topic of career transitions for athletes, the support systems available like the 2ND Wind Academy, and the entrepreneurial mindset that continues to fuel his success.
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahhim-shillingford
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rahhim.shillingford18/ -
Send us a text
Meet Andy Cramond, a former Scottish rugby player who turned his struggles with concussions into an early opportunity to plan for life after sports. In this episode, Andy opens up about his journey, sharing how he juggled late-night study sessions to earn online degrees in accountancy and business, all while pursuing his passion for property investment. Discover the strategies he used to manage time efficiently and build a solid foundation for his future.
Andy's story isn't just about overcoming physical challenges; it's also about leveraging the connections and experiences gained during his rugby career to succeed in the property market. We dive into his exciting move to France, his initial plans for an engineering career, and how his performance on the rugby field shifted his focus to professional sports. Andy also sheds light on the differences between property markets in the UK, US, and Dubai, and his mission to introduce the realtor model to Scotland for smoother transactions, especially for professional athletes.
But the journey didn't stop there. Andy talks about the emotional and physical toll of dealing with concussions and the tough decision to retire after a final game in 2021. He shares how a house renovation project became a pivotal part of his transition, offering a new career path in property investment. Listen in as he discusses the rewarding aspects of helping clients in real estate and the importance of financial planning for athletes.
Are you looking for Career Clarity for your next step, for more information, or to book a consultancy, make sure you check out www.2ndwind.io
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahhim-shillingford
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rahhim.shillingford18/ - Vis mere
