The Athlete2Business Podcast

What happens when an Olympic diver hangs up her chamois and walks into a pharmaceutical sales role with zero experience, and then spends 15 years quietly becoming one of the best in the medical device space? That's exactly what happened with this week's guest, Patricia; former Australian Olympian in platform diving (Sydney 2000) and now Head of Regenerative Aesthetics and Medicine. In this episode, Alex and Patricia get into the full journey: growing up at the pool chasing her brother, making the national team, competing at a home Olympics, dealing with injury at the event, and then navigating the messy, non-linear path into a career she didn't plan for. They cover: Why Trish didn't fall in love with sales until year 15 (and what finally changed) How the discipline of elite diving translated directly into business performance Why sales is the best unpaid university degree you'll ever get, except it pays you The leadership principle she borrowed from her coachWhat athletes get wrong about sales (hint: it's not about pitching) This one is for every former athlete who's ever thought "what now?" and who hasn't quite found their second sport yet. 🎙️ Presented by Athlete2Business | athlete2business.com

Michael Reid is back for round two — and a lot has changed since we last spoke.In his first episode, Michael broke down the mechanics of high level enterprise sales. This time, he opens up about walking away from all of it. The secure salary, the corporate ladder, the identity he'd built over 15 years — and why he gave it all up to bet on himself.We get into the raw reality of leaving corporate for real estate, nearly going broke, discovering high ticket sales, and how one conversation with a mindset coach changed the entire direction of his life.Michael now runs his own mindset coaching business and in this episode he breaks down the science behind manifestation, why your subconscious mind is either working for you or against you, and the daily practices that separate people who achieve their goals from those who just talk about them.This one goes deep. Whether you're an athlete figuring out your next move, an entrepreneur in the middle of a leap of faith, or someone who just knows there's more — this episode will hit differently.🎧 Listen now on Spotify.

Dan Parks earned 67 caps for Scotland over a nine-year international rugby career. But when the final whistle blew, he faced the same question every retiring athlete does — what now?In this episode, Dan opens up about the reality of life after sport, how he translated elite habits and routine into a high-performing sales career, and why culture fit can make or break your transition into the corporate world.We get into the power of networking, why vulnerability on LinkedIn landed him his current role, and what businesses and athletes are both getting wrong about the transition.If you're an ex-athlete figuring out your next move — or a business wondering how to get the best out of one — this one's for you.

Olympic gold medalist and former Australian hockey captain Mark Knowles joins the Athlete2Business podcast to unpack what it truly takes to perform at the highest level, and sustain it.From growing up in regional Queensland to standing on top of the Olympic podium, Mark shares the mindset, resilience, and self-determination that shaped his career. We dive into overcoming injury setbacks, leading elite teams, and the hard truths about maintaining high performance over time.This episode is a masterclass in leadership, self-awareness, and transitioning from sport into business; packed with lessons for athletes, entrepreneurs, and anyone chasing excellence.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business Podcast, Alex sits down with former Australian Boomers basketball player Matt Hodgson to unpack the mindset behind elite performance — both in sport and in business.Matt shares his journey from discovering basketball late, to competing at the highest levels internationally, and ultimately transitioning into performance advisory work with organizations. The conversation dives into imposter syndrome, leadership, team dynamics, and why clarity in systems often unlocks the best performance from individuals.Matt now works with leaders and organizations through People Performance Advisors, helping businesses build high-performing teams by applying principles learned from elite sport.They also explore lessons from playing alongside elite athletes, what separates high performers from the rest, and how the principles of high-performance sport translate directly into building successful teams in business.If you're an athlete navigating life after sport, or a leader looking to build stronger teams, this episode is packed with insights.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business Podcast, Jackson Gray shares his journey from being an elite swimmer and triathlete to becoming a successful strength and conditioning coach. He discusses the challenges of transitioning into personal training, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in connecting with clients. Jackson also highlights the competitive nature of the fitness industry and the need for a strong work ethic. He reflects on the balance between work and personal life, the significance of having clear goals, and his aspirations for Flow Athletic, a company dedicated to promoting health and fitness.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, Meghan Musnicki shares her journey from a late start in rowing to becoming a two-time Olympic champion and five-time world champion. She discusses the challenges she faced, the importance of resilience, and how her competitive spirit has shaped her career. Meghan also reflects on her transition from elite sports to the business world, emphasizing the value of athletes in corporate settings. Currently, she works at Biograph, where she focuses on health assessments and longevity medicine, and she also uses her platform as a motivational speaking to inspire others with her experiences.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, Ben Lucas shares his journey from a professional rugby league player to a successful personal trainer and entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from sports to business, the importance of process over outcome, and how he founded Flow Athletic, a unique fitness studio that combines yoga and strength training. Ben emphasises the significance of hiring for culture and values in business and shares insights on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and mental well-being through running and fitness.

Join us on the Athlete2Business podcast as we welcome Jazz Ferguson, a professional basketball player turned life coach. In this episode, Jazz shares his inspiring journey from his rookie season in 2012 to becoming a motivational force in the world of life coaching. Discover how his relentless work ethic and positive mindset have driven his success on and off the court. Tune in for insights on confidence, perseverance, and the power of intentional repetition in achieving greatness.Check out Reps With Jazz.Check out his Insta and his LinkedIn page.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, Ariah Michel shares his inspiring journey from being a promising football player to navigating the challenges of college sports in the US, facing setbacks, and ultimately finding success in the business world. He discusses the importance of resilience, leadership, and the transition from sports to entrepreneurship, highlighting the lessons learned along the way and the significance of building a supportive team culture.TakeawaysAriah's journey showcases the importance of resilience in overcoming setbacks.Football played a crucial role in shaping Ariah's leadership skills.Transitioning to college football in the US presented unique challenges.Experiencing a health scare led to significant changes in Ariah's life.Finding a new purpose after football was essential for Ariah's growth.The birth of Drinxactory marked a new chapter in Ariah's career.Building a business requires patience and a willingness to learn.Navigating challenges in business is a common experience for entrepreneurs.Team culture and support are vital for business success.The athlete's mindset can be a powerful asset in the business world.

Final episode of they year, we go out with a bang! Nour Ettaieb - 3 time Olympian, rower and elite finance professional! She shares her incredible story from Tunisia to the global stage. Discover how her father's influence led her to rowing, her initial resistance, and the eventual love for the sport that propelled her to the Olympics. Nour opens up about the challenges and triumphs of balancing a career in international tax consulting with her passion for rowing, offering valuable insights for athletes transitioning to the business world. Tune in for a conversation filled with resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams beyond the finish line.

Join us on the Athlete2Business podcast as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Bill Gordin, a three-time world cycling champion and successful entrepreneur. Discover how Bill transitioned from a champion cyclist to a thriving business owner, sharing insights on balancing sports and entrepreneurship. Tune in to learn about his journey, mindset, and the lessons he's gathered along the way.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, join host Alex Opacic as he delves into the inspiring journey of Matt Waugh, a former elite rugby player turned serial entrepreneur. Discover how Matt transitioned from the rugby fields of Hong Kong and England to becoming a tech entrepreneur and senior sales director. Learn about the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the challenges he faced, and the mindset that propelled him from sports to business success. Whether you're an athlete considering a career change or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration, Matt's story offers valuable insights into resilience, adaptability, and the power of a winning mindset.Connect with Matt HERE

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, I sit down with AJ Walters, a former professional tennis player turned recruitment powerhouse. AJ opens up about her journey from the ATP circuit to building a thriving career in sales and recruitment, sharing the challenges she faced and the lessons she’s learned along the way.We dive into how her athletic mindset and competitive nature helped shape her approach to business, as well as the routines and habits that drive her success. Whether you’re an athlete exploring life after sport or someone looking for motivation to push through your own career transition, this conversation is packed with valuable insights. Tune in to hear AJ’s inspiring story of transformation and her pursuit of excellence beyond the tennis court.

Join us on the Athlete2Business podcast as we sit down with Jason Cadee, a former professional basketball player who has successfully transitioned into the corporate world. Jason opens up about his journey from the basketball court to building a strong personal brand and thriving in business.He shares valuable insights on the power of networking, the importance of authenticity, and how athletes can leverage their unique skill sets to create success beyond sports. Whether you’re an athlete planning your next chapter or someone passionate about personal growth and branding, this episode is packed with lessons and inspiration. Tune in to hear how Jason navigated his career transition and what it truly takes to win in a new arena.

Join us on the Athlete2Business podcast as we explore the inspiring journey of Todd Balkin, a former professional golfer who successfully transitioned into a thriving career in commercial real estate. Todd reflects on his time competing in college golf in the US, the challenges of shifting careers, and the mindset required to reinvent yourself beyond sport.He shares how his relentless work ethic, competitive spirit, and strong networking skills opened doors to new opportunities, offering valuable insights on balancing passion with practicality. Whether you're an athlete considering a career change or simply looking for motivation to take your next big step, Todd’s story is a powerful lesson in perseverance and adaptability.

Join us on the Athlete2Business podcast as we explore the inspiring journey of Andrew Heath, who made the transition from a professional rugby career to becoming a successful business leader at Data#3. Andrew shares how his time on the field shaped his leadership style and approach to business, the challenges he faced along the way, and the invaluable lessons he’s learned throughout his career.From the rugby pitch to the boardroom, Andrew’s story is a powerful example of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of proactive career planning. Tune in to hear his insights on navigating life after sports and building a thriving career in the corporate world.

Join us on the Athlete2Business podcast as we dive into the inspiring journey of Paris Matin, a former elite tennis player whose career was unexpectedly cut short by injury. Paris shares how he successfully pivoted from the tennis court to the world of recruitment, using his athletic mindset and relentless work ethic to rise as a leader in the industry.In this episode, we explore the challenges and victories of navigating a major career transition, highlighting the resilience and determination it takes to succeed in a completely new field. Whether you're curious about recruitment or seeking inspiration to make your own career move, this conversation is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, Todd Liubinskas shares his dynamic journey from competing in rugby league, rugby union, and basketball at a semi-professional level to building a remarkable career in sales, marketing and fitness. Todd reflects on his time as Director of Men’s Health magazine and how those experiences shaped his path to becoming CEO of Yohka Sport, a fast-rising obstacle course company with ambitions of entering the 2028 LA Olympics. He dives into the lessons learned from sport, leadership in business, and what it takes to turn passion into lasting success.

Former elite Kickboxing athletes Alfonso Asensio and Harry Hill team up to launch Chief Kickboxing Officer (CKO) - using principals from fighting to succeed in business. There's a much bigger corelation with MMA and business than you think.Harry is the CEO of UFC Gym Japan, with a business career that spans several decades, including Wall Street. Alfonso is the Japan Managing Director of a global technology company and an expert in digital transformation. Both are a former elite Kickboxers and have used the habits, strategies from fighting to succeed in business. Now they're teaching you those same principals. A truly unique outlook on leadership and high performance in business.

Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Marc Nudelberg, a former college football coach who transitioned into a successful sales career and now a sales coach with On The Ball. Discover how Marc's experiences on the field shaped his approach to leadership and sales, and learn about the challenges he faced along the way. From the high-pressure world of Division I football to the dynamic landscape of sales, Marc shares valuable insights on resilience, adaptability, and the power of preparation. Tune in to hear how he leveraged his coaching skills to drive sales success and what it takes to thrive in the world of B2B sales.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, we dive into the transformative power of sports in shaping leadership skills. Join us as Mike Bagnall shares his journey from aspiring rugby player to successful business leader. Discover how the discipline, resilience, and teamwork honed on the field translate into effective leadership in the corporate world. Whether you're an athlete considering a career transition or a business professional seeking inspiration, this episode offers valuable insights into leveraging sports experiences for leadership success.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, Jason Cram, a former world champion swimmer, shares his incredible journey from competitive swimming to running his own business, Swimly. He discusses the importance of mindset in sports, the lessons learned from training with Ian Thorpe, and the challenges of transitioning from an athlete to a business owner. Jason emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of swimming and the need to teach adults how to swim, especially those with a fear of water. He also highlights the emotional intelligence developed through sports and how it translates into business success.

In this episode of the Athlete to Business podcast, host Alex Opacic speaks with Zac Beveridge, a semi-pro cricket player and Director at Colliers. They discuss Zac's journey from rural cricket beginnings to balancing a corporate career while pursuing his passion for cricket. Zac shares insights on the importance of time management, the decision to prioritize studies over a full-time cricket career, and the competitive edge that athletes bring to the business world. He emphasizes the value of networking and listening in professional growth, providing a comprehensive look at the transition from sports to business.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, Stavros Yiannoukas shares his incredible journey from professional musician to sales leader at Hawke’s Brewing Co. Stavros opens up about his transition between two very different careers, the origin story of Hawke’s Brewery, and the passion that drives him in the business world today. His story is a powerful example of how to successfully pivot careers with purpose and grit. This is a must-listen for anyone navigating change or chasing a new professional dream.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, Simon Morrison shares his inspiring journey from being an elite international rower and accomplished coach to becoming a senior business leader at global engineering giant Honeywell. With over 26 years at the company, Simon offers powerful insights into what it takes to thrive in the corporate world. He talks about applying the discipline and mindset of high-performance sport to climb the ranks in a global firm, mastering professionalism, and standing out as a leader in the boardroom. This episode is packed with next-level business advice and practical tips for athletes looking to make their mark in the business world.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business podcast, Scott Smith shares his journey from being a collegiate baseball player to building a successful career in sales and launching his own search firm in the material handling industry. He opens up about the transition from sports to business, the traits that make athletes excel in sales, and the lessons he’s carried over from the field to the corporate world. Scott also offers valuable advice for athletes looking to land their first corporate role, what to look for, how to stand out, and why a competitive mindset can be your greatest asset.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business Podcast, Jon Moscot shares his journey from being a Major League Baseball pitcher and Olympic athlete to becoming a successful sales leader and private equity professional. He opens up about the challenges athletes face when stepping away from elite sports, how he found his footing in the business world, and the mindset shifts required to thrive after sport. John also dives into the lessons he's learned along the way and how former athletes can apply their competitive edge to succeed in corporate and entrepreneurial ventures.

In this episode of the Athlete2Businness Podcast, Kyle Cleary shares his journey from playing collegiate soccer in the US to becoming a high-performing sales professional in the media industry. He dives into the challenges athletes face when transitioning into new careers, the power of networking, and how to leverage sports experience for success in the corporate world. Kyle also discusses his passion for helping athletes navigate career changes through United After Sports and the key steps to finding a fulfilling career beyond sports.

In this episode of the Athlete2Businness Podcast, Belinda Kerr shares her journey from founding and scaling two successful recruitment businesses to coaching others on how to do the same. She dives into the challenges of entrepreneurship, the strategies behind building a thriving recruitment business, and the key factors that led to her success. Belinda also discusses the ups and downs of the market, the mindset needed to navigate business growth, and the essential tactics for those looking to start and scale their own business.

In this episode of the Athlete to Business podcast, Jade Hopper shares her unique journey from being a professional tennis player to a successful lawyer. She discusses the challenges of balancing her dual passions, the tough decision to retire from tennis, and how her athletic mindset has influenced her legal career. Jade emphasizes the importance of delayed gratification, the highs and lows of both sports and law, and the necessity of maintaining a structured routine to achieve success in her new field.

In this episode, we sit down with Ted Cofie, a former professional boxer who fought on the world stage before transitioning into a thriving career as a serial entrepreneur.Ted’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary, his early years in the ring are filled with captivating stories of grit, resilience, and triumph. Now, as a business owner and consultant, he’s making waves in the world of entrepreneurship across multiple ventures.Join us as we explore Ted’s inspiring path from professional athlete to successful entrepreneur. He shares the lessons he learned in and out of the ring, his approach to overcoming challenges, and how he’s built a life of purpose and achievement.Don’t miss this engaging and motivational conversation with Ted Cofie, perfect for anyone passionate about sports, business, or personal growth. Tune in and be inspired!

In this episode of the Athlete2Business Podcast, we sit down with Kurt Dillon, a former NRL player who has made an impressive transition from professional sports to the recruitment industry. After starting his recruitment career just three years ago—knowing little about the field—Kurt has quickly risen to success and is now thriving at Allura Partners.Join us as we explore Kurt’s journey from athlete to recruitment professional, the challenges of stepping into an entirely new career, and his insights into why athletes are uniquely suited for roles in sales and recruitment. Kurt shares his inspiring story, practical advice for career transitions, and a deep dive into the recruitment world.Whether you’re curious about recruitment, looking for career inspiration, or eager to learn how athletes can excel in business, this episode is filled with genuine, relatable, and actionable insights. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with Kurt Dillon on the Athlete2Business Podcast!

In this episode of the Athlete2Business Podcast, we sit down with Mandy Rawlinson, a former elite equestrian vaulter who competed at the highest level, becoming a world champion in this unique and challenging sport. Following her athletic career, Mandy transitioned into law and eventually found her calling as a senior executive in the finance industry, working with the global firm Aberdeen.Join us as we explore Mandy’s journey from elite athlete to corporate leader, her strategies for successfully navigating major career changes, and her valuable insights for maintaining professional growth and financial stability along the way. Whether you're interested in the world of finance, career transitions, or learning how athletes can leverage their skills in business, this episode is packed with authentic, actionable advice for anyone considering a bold new path.

In this episode of the Athlete2Business Podcast, we sit down with Rosealee Bartholomew, a former elite sprint cyclist who competed at the highest level, including the Junior World Championships. After a successful 10-year career in track cycling, Rosalie made the leap into a new chapter as a recruitment professional and business owner. She now runs Elite Pathways, a firm specializing in accounting and tax professionals.Join us as we discuss her journey from athlete to entrepreneur, her insights into recruitment and sales, and practical advice on navigating career transitions. Whether you're curious about the recruitment industry, starting your own business, or learning how athletes transition to new careers, this episode offers genuine, deep, and honest insights.

In today's episode I had an inspiring conversation with Danielle O'Brien who is an Olympic ice dancer.She shares her story of success in the sport, and how resilience and determination helped her reach the Olympics. Along with sharing insights into how she landed a successful career as a Business Analyst with Westpac post sport.

Today’s episode is a little inbetweenasode - We sat down with Anthony Grima the COO of Sport Star Academy which is a sports coaching franchise business.If you’re an athlete wanting to run your own sports coaching business, be self employed and make 6-figures doing what you love, this is how!

Today we had an inspiring conversation with Chris Morgan, an Olympic rower, world class athlete and successful business professional in the IT space

Welcome to the Athlete to Business Podcast! Today, we're stepping into a unique zone with an episode that ventures beyond our usual interviews with former pro athletes turned successful business executives. Our guest, Chris Wilson, is a stress scientist a role dedicated to measuring and managing stress levels.In a world increasingly defined by stress and anxiety, particularly among high-performing business leaders facing burnout post-COVID, Chris offers invaluable tools, tips, and strategies for stress regulation. His expertise, honed from working with elite athletes and now corporate executives, centers on using hard data to navigate when to push forward, when to ease off, and when to recharge.Join us as we delve into topics ranging from stress management techniques and optimizing sleep to understanding how diet impacts stress levels. Whether you're striving for peak performance or seeking to reduce stress in your life, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Dunn, a professional Ironman whose remarkable journey began at the age of 35. Despite early dreams of becoming a professional footballer, Jason found success in the finance world before transforming his life through endurance sports.Join us as we delve into Jason's inspiring story of self-discovery and purpose, highlighted in his book "Unlimited: The Art of Being Limitless." Jason shares the challenges he faced, including 35 hospital visits, and offers invaluable insights into managing stress and anxiety in today's fast-paced world.Discover the tools and tips Jason uses to combat burnout and maintain peak performance. Don't miss this engaging and motivational conversation with Jason Dunn, an elite athlete who has impacted millions with his journey and wisdom. Tune in and be inspired!

Join us for an incredible conversation with Goran Tomasevic, a professional water polo player and Australian Olympian. Born and raised in Croatia, Goran has traveled the world, played Division One college water polo in the US, and built an impressive career at Macquarie Group in Australia.In this episode, Goran shares how he balanced the rigorous demands of corporate life with being an elite athlete in a sport that doesn't offer the financial rewards of football or basketball. Discover his strategies for effective time management and prioritization, and be inspired by his journey of resilience and dedication.Tune in for a highly motivational discussion that offers valuable insights for anyone striving to excel in multiple fields. Enjoy this inspiring conversation with Goran Tomasevic.

Join us as we explore the inspiring journeys of athletes turned entrepreneurs. In this episode, we chat with Dan Lazar, a former elite tennis player who boldly transitioned to property development and the air dome business across Romania, Europe, and the US. Discover how Dan's decision to leave tennis early led to immense success in entrepreneurship. He shares valuable insights on why quitting isn't always a setback, his innovative business strategies, and his rapid rise in the business world. Tune in for a compelling conversation filled with lessons on resilience, strategic pivots, and entrepreneurial triumph.

Join us as we sit down with former MLB player Mike Stutes for an exclusive glimpse into his extraordinary journey from the baseball diamond to the business realm. From his unforgettable moments on the field to his flourishing career post-baseball, we delve deep into the tales, hurdles, and triumphs that have shaped his remarkable path. Through candid conversations and captivating anecdotes, Mike shares insights into the mindset required to excel at the highest levels of sports and business alike. So, grab your glove and get ready to step up to the plate as we embark on an immersive exploration of resilience, determination, and the enduring passion for the game, all with Mike Stutes.

Join us as we sit down with former Australian basketball standout Cameron Tragardh for an inside look at his journey through the highs and lows of professional basketball. From his days on the court to life beyond the game, we delve into the stories, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped his career and continue to inspire. Get ready for candid conversations, insightful anecdotes, and a deep dive into the world of hoops with Cameron Tragardh.

On today's episode, we had an amazing conversation with Guy Nardo, who's a former elite collegiate golfer, turned high performance mindset coaching entrepreneur and high performing recruitment executive in the world of IT. He works with a lot of athletes in the world of sports psychology, with golfers and other athletes as well. And he has been an absolute go getter, high performer, successful business professional in the world of recruitment for the past 10 years.

Join us for a motivational episode when we look at the incredible journey of gold medallist Drew Ginn from the Olympics. Drew, a three-time Olympic gold medallist and multiple World Championship rower, offers insights into the leadership principles he learned over his remarkable career. Find out how he uses these ideas in his new coaching business to mentor and encourage people. Join us for an exciting discussion with Drew Ginn, one of Australia's most renowned athletes-turned-leaders.

James Matheson is a two-time Winter Olympian Mogul Skier, who transitioned into a post sport career as a Sales Executive at a Fintech company. What are his secrets to such a successful transition out of sport? Join us to find out!

Declan Stacey is one of Athlete2Business's great success stories. As a former successful Gymnast and World Class Diver, he is now dominating the Recruitment world in his life post sport.

James Harvey has a 15-year career, which spans here domestically in the NBL and internationally as well, captained the Boomers, won numerous championships, individual accolades and is an absolute legend of the game. Since his retirement, he's gone onto having an incredible career in the corporate sector within property. development and energy sectors. Enjoy as we delve into his story of successes through mastery of both basketball and the corporate world.

Dean Anderson is a former AFL player who achieved glory with Hawthorn winning 2 premierships in 1989 and 1991. Dean also played for St Kilda and is still involved in the club’s leadership to this day.Alongside his impressive AFL career Dean worked his way up in the finance sector over a 30-year career. Dean is currently CEO of Leading Teams, an organisation which helps individuals and teams be high performing.