Carol Cooke AM PLY is one of Australia’s most inspiring figures in sport and advocacy. Born in Canada, Carol served 14 years in law enforcement, including four years undercover, before relocating to Australia. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1998, she defied predictions of incapacitation, later excelling in elite sport. Initially a national level swimmer, she switched to rowing, then Para cycling, capturing three Paralympic gold medals (London 2012, Rio 2016) and a silver at the Tokyo Paralympics at age 60. A passionate MS advocate

Carol founded the 24-Hour Mega Swim, raising over $11 million. For her contributions, she was named a Member of the Order of Australia in 2014. Carol is also an accomplished author of Finding Your Inner Gold and The Force Within. Through her motivational speaking, Carol shares her philosophy of resilience, daring audiences to face fears and embrace change with courage and determination. Here Carol Cook shares her remarkable journey from aspiring gymnast to Paralympic champion, overcoming the challenges of multiple sclerosis. She discusses the importance of resilience, self-belief, and the support of loved ones in achieving one's dreams, regardless of age or obstacles. Carol's story is a testament to the idea that it's never too late to pursue your passions and make a positive impact in the world.

Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com

Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsors, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education and sports and Division Technologies (https://divisiontech.io) , your partner for technology leadership & advice with top-tier, affordable technology services for businesses, professional services, and startups.

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Matt Levy has been an active swimmer since he was three years old, and competed for over 20 years in hundreds of state, national and international competitions, including five Paralympic Games.

He worked in the financial industry for over ten years in change management and currently works in the health sector. Matt earned a BA in Business Management and an MBA in Leadership and Innovation. A graduate of the AICD Company Director’s Program Matt also holds multiple board, advisory and ambassadorial roles with sporting, community and humanitarian organisations.

In 2014, Matt was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for "Service to sport as a Gold Medallist at the London 2012 Paralympic Games."

In 2015, he was named Athlete of the Year with a Disability at the New South Wales Sports Awards, and in 2018 he was named Swimming Australia’s Paralympic Program Swimmer of the Year. In November 2021, he received a New South Wales Institute of Sport Academic Excellence Award and was named the 2021 Sport NSW Athlete of the Year with a Disability. His fifth Paralympic campaign came to an exciting end when he joined teammates to win the gold medal in the men’s 4x100m freestyle 34 points relay. Matt Levy shares his inspiring journey as a Paralympic swimmer and his transition into a professional career. He discusses the importance of balancing sports with work, the value of mentorship, and the lessons learned throughout his athletic career. Matt discusses the significance of self-reflection, understanding one's purpose, and giving back to the community. Everyone experiences change in their lives listen in on your best way to navigate it.

Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com

Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsors, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education and sports and Division Technologies (https://divisiontech.io) , your partner for technology leadership & advice with top-tier, affordable technology services for businesses, professional services, and startups.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Patsy Tierney is a name synonymous with excellence in sport aerobics. As the 1998 World Sport Aerobics Champion and an undefeated Australian Champion for over five years, Patsy was at the pinnacle of her sport. Sponsored by Nike, she travelled the world, competing in prestigious events across Europe, Asia, and the United States, earning both international recognition and prize money. She was a regular guest on popular shows like Wide World of Sports, The Bert Newton Show, and Today, and co-hosted Footy Plus, becoming a household name in the 1990s. However, life took a dramatic turn when Patsy became a single mum to two young children. Struggling with mental health, she turned to alcohol and antidepressants to cope, losing both her passion for fitness and her sense of self. But everything changed when Patsy signed up for a fun run—a decision that reignited her love for fitness and helped her reconnect with her joy as a mother.

This personal transformation led to the birth of Fit Mumma, a health and fitness business dedicated to empowering mums to prioritise their well-being. Today, Patsy runs the Fit Mumma Classic, Australia’s only functional fitness competition exclusively for mums, and hosts virtual challenges to inspire women everywhere. With certifications in post-natal care, menopause, Olympic weightlifting and over 20 years coaching women, Patsy is a true force of transformation, helping mums rediscover their strength. Here Patsy discusses the importance of community, accountability, and finding joy in fitness, especially for mothers. Here Patsy discusses the importance of community, accountability, and finding joy in fitness, especially for mothers. Patsy also delves into the need for self-care and adapting fitness routines as we age, encouraging listeners to prioritise their well-being and find activities they love.

Reach out to Patsy here https://fitmumma.au

Connect with Amber Daines here https://amberdaines.com

Life After the Whistle is a winning podcast thanks to our founding sponsors, the Central Coast Sports College (https://ccsc.nsw.edu.au) , empowering your future through education and sports and Division Technologies (https://divisiontech.io) , your partner for technology leadership & advice with top-tier, affordable technology services for businesses, professional services, and startups.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.