Life After the Whistle with Amber Daines

Peter FitzSimons is a former rugby player turned author and journalist. They discuss Peter's transition from sports to writing, his views on luck and hard work, and his advice for navigating major life changes. Peter shares personal stories, including his unexpected journey into journalism and his reflections on embracing change. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Life After the Whistle, Amber Daines explores the complex relationship between success and failure, particularly for athletes transitioning out of their sports careers. She discusses how the definition of failure evolves after achieving significant success and the challenges of redefining one's identity and purpose post-retirement. The conversation divers into the importance of embracing average days and finding new metrics of success beyond traditional accolades. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Young is a newly retired professional soccer player with a storied career of 25 years. He left home at the age of 15 to play soccer in England, which is considered as one of the most elite countries in world soccer. After 13 years, he decided to return home and play in the A-League which is the highest level of soccer in Australia. Overall, he played close to 600 professional games, was voted the best Goalkeeper in Australia in 2018, as well as winning the A-League in 2022. Like most professional athletes who often view the runway to the end of their career with dread he knew that life off the pitch needed some deep thought and contemplation about what the next chapter of his life would entail. Enter his PhD in Sports Coaching, where he focuses on high performance in elite sport (and indeed the elite business arena). Sports people are so often governed by the training regime and the restrictions and requirements of being a professional athlete that the knowing of the self if often secondary until they finish playing and are left with themselves. Exploring the self and growing as a man is now the game Jaimie is most passionate about playing. He says it will make me a better man, better dad, better partner and that’s where the real marrow of a life well lived. This is an extremely candid and fascinating chat with Jaimie Young enjoy it. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Lucas is the co-founder of Sydney’s leading fitness and yoga studio Flow Athletic and is a former NRL player for the Cronulla Sharks. Ben is one of Australia’s leading personal trainers, with a client list that includes Erin Holland, Sammy Robinson, and Elton John. Ben is also an ambassador for the Sydney Marathon and a member of Athletes for Life. Ben has also been named the head coach at Sydney Marathon.  In this engaging conversation, Benjamin Lucas shares his journey from a young sports enthusiast to a successful fitness entrepreneur. He discusses his early love for sports, the challenges and triumphs of his NRL career, and his transition into the fitness industry. Benjamin emphasises the importance of resilience, mentorship, and continuous learning in both sports and business. He also reflects on the impact of fitness trends and the significance of adapting to change. Connect with Ben Lucas here https://flowathletic.com.au/ Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bronwen Knox is a four-time Olympian and one of Australia’s most decorated water polo players, with 399 international appearances and two Olympic bronze medals to her name. After nearly two decades in elite sport, she has built a parallel career as a lawyer and a governance and integrity leader. She is the National Integrity Manager for Australian Taekwondo and Judo Australia, overseeing complaints, disputes, and safeguarding across the sports. She also works part-time as a specialist technical coach with the Queensland Academy of Sport Women’s Water Polo Program and as an education presenter, delivering sessions to athletes and support personnel on anti-doping, integrity, and rights and responsibilities in sport. Alongside these roles, Bronwen serves on several boards and committees, including Water Polo Australia, the Queensland Olympic Council, and the Sport Integrity Australia Athlete Advisory Group. She was also Deputy Chef de Mission for the Australian Olympic Team at Paris 2024. Bronwen brings a rare mix of lived Olympic experience and legal expertise, making her a strong advocate for athlete rights, wellbeing, and good governance. Whether in the pool, the boardroom, or the tribunal room, she is driven by a clear purpose: creating environments where athletes can thrive and where integrity is non-negotiable. Here Bron discuses the challenges she faced, her transition to life after competition and she also shares insights into the dynamics of water polo training, the importance of communication in the sport, and the defining moments that shaped her career. She reflects on overcoming adversity, the Olympic experience, and the rewarding role of mentoring the next generation of athletes. The conversation concludes with valuable advice for those navigating life changes, emphasising the importance of networking and exploring new opportunities. One thing that shines through in this conversation is how incredibly humble this woman is despite all her success and it's a key takeaway for life.  Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emma Franklin Bell is a writer and coach who was born and raised on the sunny Central Coast of NSW. At 16 years old she moved interstate to pursue who passion for dance and performance. This led to a career in dance studio ownership, teaching, studio coaching, assessing and adjudicating. In her late twenties Emma broadened her skills out into business, marketing, podcasting and writing. She has led writing courses for hundreds of participants, bought and sold businesses, presented to numerous groups, self-published three books, appeared on podcasts and privately coached people who have gone on to build thriving businesses and publish books. As Emma moves into her forties, she’s more interested in the internal landscape of what makes us tick and what we need internally to thrive externally.  Emma is currently completing a Master of Counselling and she also holds a Bachelor of Communication, VET Diploma of Business Marketing, VET Diploma of Presentation Skills, CERT IV Real Estate, CERT IV Training and Assessment (TAE), Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Advanced, Vaganova Russian Ballet Method, Level 8. Emma Franklin Bell shares her journey from a young ballerina to a successful entrepreneur, highlighting the challenges and transitions she faced along the way. She discusses the discipline and dedication required in ballet, the impact of injuries, and how these experiences shaped her career in the performing arts and beyond. Emma also offers advice for those transitioning out of performative careers, emphasising the importance of mentorship and embracing new opportunities. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gracie Elvin is a two-time Australian national road cycling champion and former Olympian and the first Australian woman to podium at the iconic Tour of Flanders, amongst other things. But Gracie’s greatest legacy may lie off the bike. In 2017, she co-founded The Cyclists’ Alliance, the first-ever women’s cycling union. Gracie is more than a decorated athlete - she’s a leader, a changemaker, and a voice for those often unheard in elite sport. A two-time Australian national road cycling champion and former Olympian, Gracie spent over a decade competing on the world stage. She represented Australia at the 2016 Rio Olympics, in six UCI World Championships, and the 2014 Commonwealth Games - and in 2017, she made history as the first Australian woman to podium at the iconic Tour of Flanders. But Gracie’s greatest legacy may lie off the bike. In 2017, she co-founded The Cyclists’ Alliance, the first-ever women’s cycling union. As a rider still at the height of her career, Gracie stepped up - managing communications, helping shape policy, and launching a mentoring program for current and future athletes. Her work helped drive transformative change in women’s cycling, from securing maternity leave and minimum salaries to building stronger protections and support networks for riders around the world. Since retiring from pro cycling in 2020, Gracie has become a powerful voice in the sport’s media landscape. She works as a commentator on the world’s biggest races - including the Tour de France - and is a passionate writer, speaker, and podcast co-host. She now serves as Athlete Liaison at AusCycling, advocating for rider wellbeing and meaningful athlete representation in governance. Gracie is the perfect ambassador for Ride for the Kids - not just for her cycling credentials, but for her deep empathy and unwavering commitment to progress. She understands that impact is measured not just in medals, but in mentoring others, standing for fairness, and shaping a better future. Grounded, thoughtful, and quietly fearless, Gracie brings authenticity and purpose to everything she does - on the road, on the mic, and now, as an advocate for families riding for a cause. Here she highlights her role in co-founding the Cyclists Alliance, advocating for women's rights in cycling, and her current work as an athlete liaison at Oz Cycling. Gracie's story is one of resilience, advocacy, and finding purpose beyond the competitive arena. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom Harvey is the co-founder of TH7, Australia’s leading wellness and recovery destination designed to help people live better, longer. A former professional rugby 7s player for the Queensland Reds and Australian 7s, Tom’s journey into performance and recovery began with a career-halting injury — and a Theragun. What followed was a deep personal dive into science-backed tools, heat and cold therapy, and the power of deliberate stress in building resilience. After completing a degree in Exercise, Sport and Nutrition Science at the University of Queensland, Tom knew he didn’t want to follow a traditional path in one-on-one coaching. Instead, he carved out a new one, working in sports retail and product distribution before co-founding TH7 with leading physiotherapist Greg Spurgin in 2022. The vision was clear — to create a premium, protocol-led space where recovery isn’t reserved for elite athletes, but made accessible to everybody. Tom Harvey, co-founder of TH7, shares his journey from a professional rugby player to a wellness entrepreneur. He discusses the importance of recovery, the science behind TH7's offerings, and how controlled stress can improve quality of life. Tom emphasises the need for proactive health management and shares insights on building a business that caters to both athletes and everyday people. Reach out to Tom here https://th7bodylabs.com.au/communities/ Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hailing from the Barrington Coast of NSW, Chris was born into an independently owned Stock andStation Agency family where his passion for livestock, the agricultural community and sport originated. He attended boarding school for secondary education in Sydney and then to the University of Queensland Gatton College to study Property Valuation to pursue his interest in real estate and all that came with the rural industry. Chris practised as a Valuer in the Central West of NSW whilst all the time pursuing his passion for Rugby Union in coaching and management as a volunteer working with regional, state and national underage teams. In 1995 the game of Rugby Union went professional globally and Chris was offered his first full time contract as the NSW Waratahs Academy Manager. After deciding to leave a “real job” in property this started an amazing journey into full time sports administration. His career in Rugby Union covered many roles as the Team Manager and General Manager of teamsincluding, The Waratahs, The Western Force, The Wallabies, The Sunwolves and The Japan National Team “The Brave Blossoms” With a keen interest and experience developing in High Performance sport, Chris also was offered the role of High Performance Director of the Australian Equestrian Team included in the Olympic Games movement. Over 25 (twenty-five) years in managing and leading high performance sport programs he hascovered pinnacle events including three Rugby World Cups, numerous World Championships and Tours and three Olympic Games including Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024. With a desire to spend more time with family, Chris established a boutique high performance advisory practise and coupled with his interests, experience, network and drive for organisations and their people to “get better every day” that works alongside high performance individuals, teamsand organisations. Chris is currently working with individuals and teams within the NRL, Rugby Union, Olympic Sports and Equestrian Sports domestically and globally. More recently Chris has been working within the agribusiness and corporate sector applying high performance, leadership, mentoring, people management and culture principles learnt from sport adapted to industry striving for excellence and elite performance. Chis’ journey in high-performance sports management, exploring themes of personal growth, team dynamics, and the importance of culture in achieving excellence. Chris shares insights from his experiences in rugby union and Olympic sports, emphasising the significance of relationships, mindset, and accountability in high-performance environments. Reach out to Chris Webb here https://www.chriswebb.com.au/contact-1 Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Billy Pedden is a former professional rugby league player best known for his time with the Newcastle Knights during the foundation years of the NRL club. A tough competitor on the field, Billy built his career around hard work, resilience, and loyalty to his team and community. Since hanging up his boots, Billy has taken those same values into life after football. He’s carved out a new path away from the stadium lights, navigating the transition from professional sport into everyday life—a journey that comes with its own challenges and lessons. Billy now shares stories not only from his playing days, memorable games, teammates, and the culture of rugby league in its early years but also from his experiences beyond football. He’s passionate about community, personal growth, and inspiring others to make the most of life after professional sport. Whether he’s reflecting on the grit it takes to play at the highest level or the resilience needed to redefine yourself afterwards, Bill brings honesty, humour, and heart to every conversation. He also emphasises the importance of mentors and camaraderie in achieving success, reflects on the cutthroat nature of professional sports, the lack of support networks and shares his journey of resilience and adaptability in both sports and his post-sport career. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special bonus episode, Life After the Whistle host Amber Daines steps behind the mic solo to reflect on some of the most powerful themes from her conversations with elite athletes. From letting go of a lifelong identity to rediscovering purpose through structure, Amber unpacks the hidden emotional journeys behind every athlete’s second act. She explores what it means to borrow new identities, to heal through routine, and to redefine legacy beyond the game. Whether you're an athlete in transition or someone navigating big life changes, this episode offers grounded insights and gentle reminders that it's okay to pause, reimagine, and start again. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jure Koščak spent over a decade chasing perfection as an elite table tennis athlete. From national titles to international competitions, his life was built on precision, discipline, and the pursuit of results. But behind the podiums was a deeper disconnect—burnout, physical pain, and a growing sense that performance without presence was no longer enough. In this episode, Jure sits down with Amber Daines to reflect on what happens when the body says "stop"—and you finally listen. After a career-ending hip injury forced him to pause, Jure didn’t just retire from sport—he began a profound inward journey that would shape his next chapter as a coach, teacher, and founder of the GAP Method: Grounding, Awareness, Presence. Together, they explore the cost of constantly proving yourself, the quiet freedom of slowing down, and how Jure now helps high performers—from athletes to CEOs—recalibrate their nervous systems and rediscover who they are beneath the pressure. He opens up about identity beyond the game, the unexpected peace in stepping away, and the power of journaling, breathwork, and simply being still. If you’ve ever felt lost after letting go of a long-held role—or are in the thick of a life transition—Jure’s grounded, honest story is one that might just help you come home to yourself. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the rugby grounds of Jedburgh to boardrooms across the globe, Neil Tunnah’s career has been shaped by connection, clarity, and consistency. Neil is an accredited University of Queensland & Rugby Australia Level 4 High-Performance Coach, and a World Rugby Accredited High-Performance Trainer & Educator. Neil transitioned into leadership consulting—bringing with him a rare mix of lived sporting grit and strategic business insight. His journey took him from coaching rising stars in Australia’s rugby system to founding The Performance Chain Group, a consultancy that helps leaders thrive in high-pressure environments across three continents. In this episode, Neil joins Amber Daines to talk about what truly defines leadership and sustainable performance—on the field and beyond. He shares personal stories of resilience, including the setback of being let go from a coaching role, and how that pivotal experience reshaped his approach to people, pressure, and purpose. Now the creator of the 24hr Leader model, Neil helps executives and teams embed elite-level habits into everyday business. Together, they explore the mindset shifts required to navigate career transitions, the identity challenges athletes often face post-sport, and why structure, self-awareness, and recovery are just as critical in corporate life as they are in elite sport. If you’re curious about what it takes to lead when the stakes are high—and how to stay human through it all—this is a must-listen. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conversation, Olympic rower Nick Lavery shares his unique journey from discovering rowing to competing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of elite performance, the importance of teamwork and communication in rowing, and the personal reflections that led him to transition from sports to a career in marketing. Nick has learnt that the mindset is key and also that many of his skills like resilience were transferable. Amber and Nick also navigating the grapple with identity during the transition period from sport to the next phase. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a competitive rower for 17 years, Dr. Lise Janelle knows firsthand the grit, precision, and pain that define elite sport. But it’s what came after the races—when the training stopped and identity shifted—that truly reshaped her path. Now a world-renowned performance coach, author, and creator of the Heart Freedom Method, Lise helps high-achieving athletes and entrepreneurs clear the subconscious blocks holding them back. In this episode, she joins Amber Daines to talk about the invisible stories we carry, how childhood moments can shape adult performance, and why success sometimes feels like a threat rather than a reward. From competing at the Canadian Henley Regatta to coaching Olympic medalists, Lise unpacks how the subconscious mind drives our results—often without us realizing it. They explore self-sabotage, identity after sport, and how athletes can find purpose and fulfillment long after they leave the podium. If you’ve ever felt like you're holding yourself back without knowing why, this conversation will change how you think about success, self-worth, and what it truly means to win—on and off the field. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With a 15-season career and 424 games in the NBL, Jason Cadee has lived the dream many athletes chase. But what happens when the final whistle blows? In this episode, Amber Daines sits down with Jason just months into his new life off the court. From his early days as a towel boy in Bankstown to representing Australia and winning NBL’s Sixth Man of the Year, Jason shares the highs, the heartbreaks—including a life-altering car accident—and the quiet decision to retire on his own terms. Now a Partnerships Manager at Step One, Jason opens up about starting over, navigating business without a playbook, and how he’s repurposing his elite athlete mindset in a totally new arena. They talk about identity, reinvention, daily wins, and why walking away at the right time can be the boldest move of all. This is an honest, insightful episode for anyone standing at the edge of change—on or off the court. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Olympic silver medallist Rach Taylor once defined success by the medals she chased in elite rowing. But after stepping away from the water, she discovered the real challenge wasn’t on the podium—it was navigating life after sport. In this episode, Rach sits down with Amber Daines to share her extraordinary journey from Olympic glory to surf lifesaving, corporate leadership, and now, coaching and tech innovation. With raw honesty and her signature no-BS approach, Rach opens up about the emotional toll of losing her identity, starting over as a mature-age student, and the clunky but courageous road to reinvention. Today, she’s the founder of Rach Taylor Coaching and a strategic advisor for an HR tech startup aiming to reshape how we work. Together, they explore themes of burnout, resilience, identity, and why finding purpose after sport—or after any major life pivot—isn’t a straight line. This is a must-listen for anyone navigating change and craving a life that feels more aligned, human, and fulfilling. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A gymnast who was told she was too tall. An Olympian labeled too old. A Ninja Warrior who shattered expectations and outperformed every man on the course. Olivia Vivian has made a career out of rewriting the rules. From surviving a life-threatening birth condition to becoming a seven-time national gymnastics champion and Beijing 2008 Olympian, Olivia’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this candid conversation with Amber Daines, Olivia shares what it takes to defy limitations, rebound from personal loss and injury, and thrive in the unknown. With stories of heartbreak, hilarious honesty, and heroic comebacks—including her record-breaking run on Australian Ninja Warrior—Olivia reminds us that resilience isn’t just a trait, it’s a choice. Now a motivational speaker, coach, and mentor, Olivia reflects on her evolving second act and why finding your “why” is essential when navigating change. Whether you’re facing a career pivot or personal challenge, this episode offers the motivation to keep going—and go further than you ever thought possible. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With over 15 years of experience shaping some of Australia’s most high-profile sporting moments, Mark Falvo knows how to build legacy from the ground up. From leading the charge on the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup bid to now spearheading the 2027 Netball World Cup as Chief Operating Officer, Mark has mastered the balance between operational excellence and long-term impact. In this episode, Amber Daines speaks with Mark about what it takes to deliver a world-class event—from creating athlete-first experiences to building culture within a startup-like organization. Mark shares his insights on why women’s sports deserve more than just moments in the spotlight and how events like the Women’s World Cup can shift generational attitudes. He also opens up about navigating career change after a long stint in football, taking time to reflect, and re-aligning with purpose. This is a conversation about performance, planning, and what happens when sport becomes a platform for real social change. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg Brownlow began his sporting journey with a racquet in hand, rising through Australia’s tennis ranks before earning a scholarship to play Division 1 college tennis in the U.S. at Austin Peay State University. After completing a degree in Business Administration, Greg launched into a pro tennis career—until injury cut it short. That moment became a turning point, leading him into elite coaching roles on both the ATP and WTA tours and later founding the Future Star Academy, where he developed nationally and globally ranked players. Today, Greg brings the same high-performance mindset to his dual role as CEO of the Central Coast Mariners and Business Development & Strategic Partnerships Manager at Central Coast Sports College. In this episode, Amber Daines speaks with Greg about the personal growth that comes from navigating identity shifts, the emotional highs and lows of elite sport, and what it means to lead with integrity in business and community. He reflects on building environments that allow athletes—and people—to flourish, and the legacy he hopes to leave in sport and leadership. Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsor, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.