Prime Mastermind Podcast

This episode shares the powerful and emotional story of Mikayla Kolbe — a bright, popular, and sporty Year 9 student whose life changed overnight. After returning from school holidays, Mikayla developed full-fledged Functional Neurological Disorder (how most would see Tourette’s Syndrome), with sudden, uncontrollable physical and verbal tics that turned her world upside down.Joined by her parents, Nicole and Mark, this conversation dives deep into what it’s like for a young girl and her family to navigate the unimaginable — from confusion and heartbreak to resilience and growth. Together, they share the raw truth about living with Tourette’s, the toll it took on their mental health, and the strain it placed on their family dynamics.But beyond the challenges lies a story of strength, love, and unwavering support. The Kolbes reveal how they learned to adapt, communicate, and find light in moments of darkness. This episode is a reminder that behind every struggle is a family doing their best to understand, accept, and keep moving forward.A confronting yet inspiring journey — this is one you won’t forget. 💚

This week on Prime Mastermind, we sit down with Paul Barnat - Breathwork Coach and Founder of ReKnect.Paul shares how the simple act of breathing can transform:🧠 Stress into focus💪 Tension into strength⚡ Pressure into performanceWhether you’re an athlete or a business professional, this episode will change the way you think about your breath and unlock a new level of clarity and control.Tune in and discover why mastering your breath is the first step to mastering yourself.

This week we sit down with Richelle Hill - Professional Triathlete and Olympic hopeful. She takes us inside the world of elite sport. From the gruelling training blocks to the mental battles that shape performance, Richelle shares the complexities, challenges, and pure excitement of pursuing a career at the highest level. We dive into resilience, sacrifice, and what it truly takes to chase greatness on the global stage.

This week we sit down with Jayden Clay, owner of Your Athlete Hub, a gym built with one purpose: supporting the holistic athlete. Jayden shares how performance isn’t just about strength and conditioning, but also about mindset, recovery, and building sustainable habits that allow athletes to thrive in sport and in life. From the training floor to the bigger picture of athlete wellbeing, Jayden gives us a look into what it truly means to build complete athletes.

Luke Kennedy. Renowned keynote speaker, bestselling author of Stabbed Ego, and one of Australia’s leading voices on resilience and personal transformation.Luke’s journey is a powerful one: from battling bullying and destructive, ego-driven behaviours in his early years, to becoming a mindful leader inspiring thousands across the country. He now travels Australia, speaking to schools, businesses, and communities about the dangers of ego, the importance of mindfulness, and how to break free from limiting patterns to live your best life.Luke doesn’t just talk about change, he embodies it. His raw honesty, powerful storytelling, and practical tools leave audiences not only inspired, but equipped to step forwardwith greater self-awareness, compassion, and courage.

Caity Byron is a leading sports dietitian passionate about helping athletes fuel their bodies for peak performance and long-term health. With a deep understanding of the science behind eating for performance, she breaks down complex nutrition into practical, easy-to-use strategies. Caity specialises in matching energy requirements to the demands of training and competition, while guiding athletes toward sustainable changes that fit their lifestyle - not fight against it. Whether it’s maximising recovery, maintaining consistent energy, or building habits that last, Caity’s approach is realistic, personalised, and performance-driven.

We’ve all been told to “set goals”, but what if that’s not the full story?In this episode of Prime Mastermind, we explore why goal setting so often fails, even with the best frameworks in place. We break down and review the effectiveness of four of the most widely used goal-setting methods - including SMART goals and OKRs - and reveal where they fall short when it comes to long-term success.But the real insight?It may not be about the destination… or even the journey…It’s about alignment with the person you want to become.We unpack the deeper layers of what truly drives sustainable success: individual motivation, identity, purpose, and emotional clarity. If you’ve ever hit a goal and still felt empty - this conversation is for you.

Full-time professional cricketer. Part-time designer, fisherman, and golfer.In this episode, we’re joined by the multi-talented Maitlan Brown, who shares what it takes to perform at the highest level and still stay grounded.We dive into:🔹 Her love for the game and what fuels her on-field execution🔹 How creative outlets and time outdoors keep her levelheaded🔹 The importance of identity beyond the sportWhether you’re an athlete, creative, or just someone chasing balance in a high-performance world, Maitlan’s perspective is a refreshing reminder that passion off the field is just as powerful as discipline on it.

🎙️ What’s Stealing Your Emotional Energy? We’ve all got a finite tank of emotional fuel, but most of us are handing it out like free samples at a shopping center on a Saturday morning 😅In this episode, we unpack what’s quietly draining your mental and emotional energy - from overthinking and people-pleasing to pointless drama and inner critic overload.If you’re feeling tired but haven’t run a marathon, this one’s for you. Learn how to protect your energy, refocus on what matters, and show up with more clarity, calm and confidence.

This week, I sit down with Hannah Darlington - professional cricketer, proud Indigenous leader, podcast host, and keynote speaker - for a powerful and raw conversation that dives well beyond the boundary rope.Hannah opens up about the mental and emotional challenges she's faced in her young career, the ongoing journey of identity beyond sport, and how she’s navigated the evolving landscape of women’s cricket during its most pivotal moments. From leadership pressures to cultural pride, this episode is packed with honest insights, resilience, and a reminder that who we are is always bigger than what we do.🔥 Whether you're an athlete, coach or simply navigating your own highs and lows - this one’s for you.

From the cricket pitch at Eden Gardens to commanding leadership training in the Navy, Shane Wallace has lived a life of purpose, performance, and service.In this powerful episode, Shane shares lessons from a career that spans elite sport, a 13-year naval tenure as a Lieutenant Commander, and now executive leadership with JY Australia, where he designs programs that empower Indigenoustalent and drive government innovation.We dive deep into identity shifts, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the raw moments of sleep deprivation, separation, and personal growth.Shane’s leadership philosophy? “Lead by teaching others to lead—regardless of rank or title.”Whether you’re in uniform, business, or on the field—this conversation will sharpen your leadership lens and leave you inspired to lead above the line.

Ever feel like you’re standing in your own way? This episode dives into the hidden patterns of self-sabotage—why we do it and how to break the cycle. We explore the four key "happiness hormones"—dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and endorphins—and how they shape your mindset, relationships and performance. When these chemicals are out of balance, it can erode trust, drive disconnection, and kill momentum within a team. But when leaders understand the science behind motivation and emotional safety, they unlock a culture of clarity, connection and high output. Tune in to discover how to lead with intention, create a thriving workplace, and stop self-sabotage before it starts

On this episode of Prime Mastermind, we’re joined by 21-year-old ultra runner and motivational speaker Darby Maguire — a young force redefining limits through discomfort, discipline, and deep purpose. Darby shares powerful insights on how chasing extreme endurance challenges has shaped his mindset, taught him resilience, and revealed the clarity that only comes from pushing through pain. From running hundreds of kilometers for charity to inspiring others with his raw journey, Darby is a living example of what it means to lead with heart and hustle. His message has deep implications for both business and sport — showing how growth lives on the edge of comfort, and how purpose-driven action fuels high performance. Tune in to hear about his upcoming events, mindset frameworks, and how embracing adversity can unlock the next level in your life.

In this episode of Prime Mastermind, we decode the biology behind true fulfilment—revealing how four powerful chemicals (dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin) drive your motivation, connection, and leadership capacity.Through this episode, you'll be guided through your primal wiring. Whether you’re a team leader, a CEO, or just trying to lead yourself better—this episode will help you reconnect with your inner compass, lead from purpose, and unlock the evolutionary advantage wired into every human being.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Baxter Holt — professional cricketer and psychology major — to go beyond the boundary line. We dive into the pressures facing the modern-day athlete, the inner battles of identity beyond cricket, and what it truly means to leave a legacy both on and off the field.Baxter opens up about the mental resilience it takes to ride the highs and lows of elite sport, and how his passion for psychology has shaped his perspective on mindset, performance, and self-worth.Whether you're an athlete, coach, parent, or fan — this conversation is a raw, insightful look at the human side of high performance, and the power of perseverance when things get tough.

On this episode of Prime Mastermind, we’re honoured to welcome back Lee and Helena, the incredible parents of Harper, whose story deeply moved our listeners in an earlier episode. As we mark Brain Cancer Awareness Month, we reflect on the remarkable impact of Hundred for Harper - a movement that began in heartbreak and has grown into a beacon of hope.Their return is a powerful reminder of what resilience, love, and community can achieve. We celebrate the progress made, the funds raised, and—most importantly—the lives touched. As we look ahead, we’re inspired by the incredible opportunities to continue supporting this vital cause and to bring light to families navigating the darkest of times.Join us in honouring Harper’s legacy, and let’s keep hope alive.

Feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or like you’ve gotnothing left to give? You’re not alone — and you’re not broken. You’re just giving from your cup instead of your saucer. In this week’s Prime Mastermind episode, we unpack why prioritising yourself isn’t selfish — it’s essential.You’ll learn how to: 🧠 Rewrite your self-talk 💬 Set guilt-free boundaries 📓 Audit your habits and shift your identity 🔥 Reclaim energy to serve others powerfullyStop waiting for the crash. Start filling your own cup — onpurpose.

In this powerful and insightful episode, I sit down with one of Australia's most accomplished high-performance leaders — Bec Rippon. With experience on the world stage as both a two-time Olympic athlete and a two-time Olympic coach, Bec brings a rare depth of wisdom on what it really takes to build and lead elite teams.We unpack:🔥 The real meaning of team cohesion💡 The power of shared values and strong culture🛠️ How adversity can become your biggest asset — in sport and life📈 Lessons that translate directly to high performance in business and leadershipWhether you’re a sports enthusiast, team leader, or driven professional looking for a mindset edge — this episode delivers real, transferable value.

In our latest episode of Prime Mastermind, we dive deep into the Default Mode Network—the brain's autopilot—and explore its profound implications across the corporate boardroom and elite sporting arenas. From unproductive mental loops to breakthrough moments of creativity, understanding how the DMN operates is key to discovering peak performance and promoting adaptive leadership. We unpack how habitual thinking patterns can sabotage success, and what it takes to rewire the brain for focus, clarity, and resilience. Whether you're a CEO or a high-performance athlete, this episode offers practical insights to shift your mental game.

On this episode of the Prime Mastermind podcast, we sitdown with Andrew Woodward — a financial coach and wealth creator dedicated to transforming lives through financial empowerment. Andrew’s mission is to help individuals break free from limiting generational money beliefs, increase their financial literacy, and build sustainable wealth. With a passion for education and a heart for support, he guides clients to uncover roadblocks and take confident steps toward financial freedom. Tune in as Andrew shares powerful insights, practical strategies, and the mindset shifts necessary to create lasting wealth. Whether you're just starting your journey or ready to elevate your financial game, this episode is packed with wisdom that can help you take control of your money—and your future

On this episode of Prime Mastermind, we dive into a powerful truth: life is a series of choices, and every decision shapes your story. Are you holding the pen, or are you letting someone else write your narrative? Those who take authorship of their lives move with clarity, purpose, and speed—while others stay stuck in stories written by fear, doubt, or outside influence. It's time to reclaim your power, rewrite limiting chapters, and become the mastermind of your mindset. Your future is unwritten. Tune in and start writing the story only you were meant to live.

In this episode, we sit down with former NRL star and one-club legend Jason Nightingale—best known for his incredible career with the St. George Illawarra Dragons. As a dedicated and consistent performer on the field, Jason's journey is one of loyalty, resilience, and unwavering work ethic. After hanging up the boots, he seamlessly transitioned into the business world, carving out a new path as a successful entrepreneur and businessman. We dive deep into what it means to be a one-team player in a fast-moving sport, exploring the core values and lessons Jason carried from rugby league into his ventures beyond the game. From teamwork and leadership to discipline and adaptability, this conversation highlights how the mindset of a professional athlete can translate powerfully into the world of business. Join us as we uncover the drive behind Jason Nightingale’s post-footy success and the principles that continue to shape his journey today.

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of focus and its profound implications on success, performance, and well-being.Discover how honing your ability to concentrate can elevate your work, boost productivity, and uncover new levels of achievement. We explore the science behind focus, the impact of distractions on mental clarity, and how developing deep focus can lead to better decision-making, enhanced creativity, and improved health. Whether you're striving for personal or professional growth, mastering focus is a game changer. Tune in to learn practical strategies to sharpen your focus, boost your performance, and achieve the balance that fuels long-term success and well-being.

In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Coach Huey, amental health coach dedicated to supporting tradiesand tradespeople across the country. With a passion for raising awareness and tackling the mentalhealth crisis within the industry, Coach Huey shares his inspiring personal journey and how he got to where he is today . Aaron dives into the importance of mental health, providing valuable insights on how we can break down the stigma, prevent suicide, and improve well-being for those in the trades. With his mission to educate, empower, and change lives , Coach Huey is making a huge impact on the industry, one conversation at a time.Thankyou to our episode sponsors @yak_electrical. Tommy and his team are huge advocates for tradie mental health and support each other on and off the tools.Tune in for a deep, meaningful discussion that could changeyour perspective and your life!

In this episode we dive into the five top traits that define high-performing individuals. Whether you're striving for success in your career, personal life, or any other area, understanding what sets high achievers apart can provide the insights you need to level up. In this episode, we'll explore the key characteristics that propel top performers to new heights. We’ll discuss how these traits are cultivated, how they manifest in daily life, and practical strategies for implementing them in your own journey toward excellence. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or just want to understand what drives the world’s most successful people, this episode is packed with insight and actionable tips.Tune in and start mastering the traits that can excel you to the next level.

In this episode of the Prime Mastermind Podcast, we sit downwith Dan Breese, a former professional AFL player whose promising career was cut short by injury. Dan shares his remarkable journey from athlete to entrepreneur and eventually corporate mogul, revealing the mistakes, lessons, and growth that shaped him into the man he is today. Despite a tough upbringing and facing numerous challenges along the way, Dan’s unwavering faith in his destiny and relentless growth mindset kept him pushing forward. His story is one of resilience, faith, and high performance, showing that with the right mindset, setbacks can be the catalyst for even greater success. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on overcoming adversity and achieving greatness, both on and off the field.

In this episode of Primes Mastermind Podcast, we dive into the concept of stress and how shifting our perspective can transform its impact on our bodies and minds. Rather than avoiding stress, we explore how embracing it can actually help us build resilience and enhance our ability to perform under pressure. By taking charge of our journey and viewing stress as a challenge rather than a threat, we can alter its physiological effects and grow stronger. Tune in to discover practical strategies for developing greater tolerance, turning stress into an opportunity for personal growth and peak performance

In this episode of the Primes Mastermind Podcast, we explore the power of goal setting and how it can transform your life. Take charge of your journey by setting clear, actionable goals and holding yourself accountable every step of the way. We’ll discuss different goal-setting methodologies, helping you find the one that works best for you.

Prime Mastermind Podcast dives deep into the minds of high-performing individuals to uncover the secrets of resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Hosted by former sportsman, educator, and mindset coach Dan Rixon, this podcast brings you transformative conversations with elite athletes, successful entrepreneurs, and inspiring leaders who push the boundaries of human potential.In this episode, Dan sits down with Blakey Johnston – Director of Cronulla Surfing Academy, Former professional surfer, professional surf coach, endurance athlete, world record holder and keynote speaker.Blakey is best known for his world-record-breaking feat, surfing for over 40 consecutive hours and riding an incredible 707 waves—a testament to his unwavering resilience, mental toughness, and relentless pursuit of excellence. But his impact extends far beyond the waves. With 20 years of elite coaching experience, he has shaped the careers of some of Australia's best surfers, including World Tour competitor Connor O’Leary and Junior World Champion Jarvis Earle. Born and raised in Cronulla, Blakey has spent more time in the ocean than most could ever imagine, fully embracing the Blue Mind Theory—the powerful connection between water and mental well-being. His journey from professional surfing to endurance challenges and mental health advocacy proves that with grit, determination, and a strong mindset, anything is possible.Now a sought-after keynote speaker, Blakey shares his insights with schools, sports teams, and corporations, inspiring audiences with his lessons on mental strength, overcoming adversity, and unearthing what e are truly capable of achieving.

The Prime Mastermind Podcast dives deep into the power of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and its transformative impact on business, sport, and life. This psychological framework explores how intrinsic motivation, autonomy, competence, and relatedness drive success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, athlete, or simply navigating life’s challenges, SDT reveals how fostering these elements leads to greater engagement, achievement, and fulfillment. By understanding how to align your goals with your intrinsic motivations, you maximise your potential to grow, develop and thrive in any environment. Tune in as we explore real-world applications of SDT, offering actionable insights for mastering personal growth, enhancing performance, and creating meaningful connections across all areas of life

In this deeply moving episode of Prime Mastermind, Dan sits down with Helena & Lee Dowdall, Harper’s devoted parents, to share the heartbreaking yet inspiring story of their beautiful daughter.At just four years old, Harper faced an unimaginable battle against Stage IV Diffuse Midline Glioma (DIPG/DMG) - an aggressive and devastating childhood cancer. From an emergency surgery to weeks in hospital, radiation treatments, and an unthinkable diagnosis, Helena and Lee open up about the highs and lows of their journey, the love that carried them through, and the legacy Harper leaves behind.Through Hundred 4 Harper, they are committed to raising awareness and funding vital research with RUN DIPG - helping to improve outcomes for families facing this cruel disease.This conversation is raw, emotional, and incredibly powerful. It’s a testament to resilience, love, and the fight to ensure Harper’s story continues to make a difference. Listen now and be part of Harper’s legacy.Support the cause:  Hundred4Harper website https://www.hundred4harper.com Hundred4Harper Instagram @hundred4harper Hundred4HarperFacebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Hundred4Harper/61560610581747/ RUN DIPG website https://rundipg.org 2025 100km Challenge Team Registration https://rundipg-org.grassrootz.com/hundred-4-harper-2025 2025 Volunteers https://form.jotform.com/250338545040854  For any sponsorship or donation enquiries, Email [email protected]

In this episode, we explore how self-talk shapes the narrative within.The words you say to yourself influence your beliefs, which in turn shape your perspective.This mindset directly impacts your performance and belief in your capabilities, guiding how you approach challenges and opportunities in life.

Prime Mastermind delves into the minds of high-achieving individuals to uncover the strategies and insights that drive resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Hosted by Dan Rixon - mindset coach, former professional athlete, and educator - this podcast is your destination for thought-provoking conversations and inspiring stories. In this episode, Dan sits down with Ben Ross, Former NRL player, to explore the lessons learned through navigating challenges, embracing change, and pushing limits. Through their discussion, they uncover the mindset shifts and experiences that have shaped Ben’s journey and his approach to life. Whether you're seeking inspiration, practical tools for growth, or a fresh perspective, this episode offers something for everyone. Tune in and discover how to harness your potential and thrive in your own journey. Connect with Dan: ⁠primemindcoaching.com⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn

In this episode of Mastermind, we tackle the silent struggle many face: imposter syndrome. Our brains, specifically the amygdala, are wired to detect threats, and this often manifests as self-doubt and fear of failure. These feelings can paralyse us, limiting growth and making it hard to take risks. We explore how the amygdala’s protective instinct can keep us stuck in our comfort zones, and how we can reframe these fears to push past them. Join Dan as he discusses practical strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing vulnerability, and stepping into new opportunities for personal growth.

Prime Mastermind dives deep into the minds of high-performing individuals to uncover the secrets of resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Hosted by former sportsman Dan Rixon - educator, and mindset coach - this podcast brings you transformative conversations with elite athletes, successful entrepreneurs, and inspiring leaders. In this episode, Dan chats with Shanon Bates, founder of Push the Limit. Shanon shares his incredible journey of overcoming adversity, from surviving a life-changing operation as a newborn with spina bifida to becoming a Paralympian and advocate for inclusion and empathy. Through candid discussions, we explore pivotal moments, mindset strategies, and the power of pushing boundaries. Tune in for actionable insights, inspiring stories, and a deeper understanding of what it takes to thrive. Whether you’re chasing your goals or navigating life’s challenges, Prime Mastermind is here to guide you every step of the way. How to connect with Dan: primemindcoaching.com | Instagram | LinkedIn