Perfectly Flawed

In this enlightening episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Tim Cook, the National Program Manager of "Outside the Locker Room" - a mental health charity dedicated to supporting individuals in the world of sports. Tim Cook steps into the limelight to discuss an issue close to his heart - mental well-being, both within the realm of sports and throughout the broader community.

Mental health struggles have often been a silent challenge in the world of sports. Athletes face unique pressures, from performance expectations to the emotional rollercoaster of competition. Tim Cook, a prominent advocate for mental health awareness, takes us on a journey to explore how the worlds of sports and mental health intersect.

During this episode, Tim shares invaluable insights into starting and maintaining conversations about mental health. He provides practical advice on breaking the ice, fostering understanding, and creating a safe space for open dialogue regarding mental health challenges, whether on the field or in everyday life.

A central theme of our conversation is the critical mission of reducing the stigma associated with mental health. Tim's passion for creating a stigma-free environment within sports shines through as he discusses how influential figures can lead by example and pave the way for change. We delve into the importance of tackling stigma head-on, leading to greater acceptance, understanding, and support for those dealing with mental health challenges in the sporting community and beyond.

Furthermore, we explore the vital role that sports play in building strong, interconnected communities. Tim Cook underscores how sports can serve as a unifying force, transcending boundaries and bringing people together. We discuss the profound impact of sports in promoting teamwork, camaraderie, and positive mental well-being within communities.

Join us for this illuminating episode as we explore the vital connection between mental health, sports, and community with Tim Cook, the Australian National Program Manager of "Outside the Locker Room." It's a conversation that will resonate with sports enthusiasts, mental health advocates, and anyone who believes in the power of community to support and uplift those facing mental health challenges. Tune in for this impactful discussion on "Outside the Locker Room."

In this dynamic episode, I have the privilege of engaging in a candid dialogue with Todd, a driving force behind the impactful organization "Outside the Locker Room." Together, we explore the multifaceted world of mental health, sports, and personal well-being.

Todd shares profound insights into the essence of happiness – what it truly means and how it intertwines with our everyday lives. Drawing from his experiences and expertise, he reveals invaluable strategies to foster happiness, both on and off the field.

"Outside the Locker Room" is on a mission to revolutionize the culture within sports. Tune in as Todd discusses the pivotal role of fostering a supportive and empathetic environment, where mental health takes center stage alongside athletic prowess. Discover how this remarkable charity is effecting positive change, one conversation at a time.

In an era where mental health education is paramount, we delve into the significance of spreading awareness, destigmatizing conversations, and empowering individuals with the knowledge they need. Todd's insights shed light on how "Outside the Locker Room" is playing a pivotal role in equipping athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts with the tools to navigate their mental well-being journey.

Please be aware that this episode includes sensitive content, including discussions about mental health and mentions of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues, it's important to reach out for appropriate support.

This episode promises not only inspiration but also actionable takeaways to integrate well-being practices into your life and contribute to a transformative shift in sports culture.

Join us for an eye-opening conversation that underscores the importance of prioritizing happiness, championing mental health, and igniting a cultural revolution in the world of sports, all with the guidance of "Outside the Locker Room."

You can follow them on Instagram @otlr

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

Part 2 of my chat with my swim coach Michael!

In this episode, I am joined by my swim coach Michael Goff. We dive deep into the extraordinary world of the coach-athlete relationship. Join us as we explore the unbreakable bond that we have formed as coach and athlete, transcending the pool's surface to shape dreams, unlock potential, and achieve greatness. Together, we share our remarkable journey, revealing the invaluable lessons learned, challenges overcome, and victories celebrated along the way. Listen closely as we unravel the secrets behind building trust, fostering motivation, and cultivating a shared vision. From early struggles to triumphant victories, this episode unravels the profound influence a coach can have on an athlete's life, not only as a mentor but as a trusted confidant and unwavering support system. Discover the raw emotions, inspiring anecdotes, and intimate stories that make our coach-athlete duo's connection so special. Gain unique insights into the strategies, techniques, and mindset that empower athletes to go beyond their limits and achieve greatness. Whether you're an aspiring athlete, a dedicated coach, or simply intrigued by the intricacies of the human spirit, this episode offers a compelling exploration of the transformative power of the coach-athlete relationship. Join us as we delve into the depths of dedication, passion, and mutual growth that lie beneath the surface of this extraordinary partnership.

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by my swim coach Michael Goff. We dive deep into the extraordinary world of the coach-athlete relationship. Join us as we explore the unbreakable bond that we have formed as coach and athlete, transcending the pool's surface to shape dreams, unlock potential, and achieve greatness. Together, we share our remarkable journey, revealing the invaluable lessons learned, challenges overcome, and victories celebrated along the way. Listen closely as we unravel the secrets behind building trust, fostering motivation, and cultivating a shared vision. From early struggles to triumphant victories, this episode unravels the profound influence a coach can have on an athlete's life, not only as a mentor but as a trusted confidant and unwavering support system. Discover the raw emotions, inspiring anecdotes, and intimate stories that make our coach-athlete duo's connection so special. Gain unique insights into the strategies, techniques, and mindset that empower athletes to go beyond their limits and achieve greatness. Whether you're an aspiring athlete, a dedicated coach, or simply intrigued by the intricacies of the human spirit, this episode offers a compelling exploration of the transformative power of the coach-athlete relationship. Join us as we delve into the depths of dedication, passion, and mutual growth that lie beneath the surface of this extraordinary partnership.

Due to our chat together being so long and in such depth, I have cut the episode in half so stay tuned for part 2!

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I talk you through a mindfulness exercise. The purpose of this mindfulness exercise is to provide you with a scene that completely absorbs your attention and distracts you away from your negative thoughts. As you become absorbed in the scene you will deepen your state of relaxation and will notice physical changes. For body image concerns, this technique can be used to help you think about and attend to your body in a different way. You will work towards accepting your body and yourself as a whole. This process begins by becoming mindful of your own inner experiences in the here and now. I hope you find this exercise helpful and you can play me over and over whenever you need it! There is no intro or outro so you can just focus on the exercise!

You can follow me on Instagram @reneeeeefox To keep up to date with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I talk you through a mindfulness exercise. This is a mindfulness exercise to talk you through mental preparation focused on graditude. This can be used before a match, race, or competition, or even just use to feel calm and ready to tackle your next task.  I hope you find this exercise helpful and you can play me over and over whenever you need it! There is no intro or outro so you can just focus on the exercise!

You can follow me on Instagram @reneeeeefox To keep up to date with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I talk you through a mindfulness exercise. This is a mindfulness exercise to talk you through mental preparation focused on confidence. This can be used before a match, race, or competition, or even just use to feel calm and ready to tackle your next task.  I hope you find this exercise helpful and you can play me over and over whenever you need it! There is no intro or outro so you can just focus on the exercise!

You can follow me on Instagram @reneeeeefox To keep up to date with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I talk you through a mindfulness exercise. This is a mindfulness exercise to talk you through mental preparation focused on success. This can be used before a match, race, or competition, or even just use to feel calm and ready to tackle your next task.  I hope you find this exercise helpful and you can play me over and over whenever you need it! There is no intro or outro so you can just focus on the exercise!

You can follow me on Instagram @reneeeeefox To keep up to date with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by David Curtiss. David is a professional swimmer from the United States. He was a force to be reckoned with on the junior scene competing at the World Junior Championships before debuting on the senior team including the recent World Short Course Championships held right here in Melbourne, Australia. In our chat, we take a deep dive (pun intended!) into David’s mindset. He is able to articulate so well his thought process as an elite athlete. We discuss feeling ‘out of your depth’, comparison, and nerves. I appreciated David’s candor so much as it provided a great insight into how he sets and achieves his goals. He was able to share some great advice and tips that I think we can all apply regardless of what sport you do or even if you are an athlete or not. I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to chat with David and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

You can follow him on Instagram @_davidcurtiss

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I talk you through a mindfulness exercise. This is a mindfulness exercise to talk you through mental preparation after you have done a physical warm-up. This can be used before a match, race, or competition, or even just use it to feel calm and ready to tackle your next task.  I hope you find this exercise helpful and you can play me over and over whenever you need it! There is no intro or outro so you can just focus on the exercise!

You can follow me on Instagram @reneeeeefox To keep up to date with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Bill. Bill is a 3 time Olympian for team USA for bobsleigh. He is now a proud businessman and father. Bill discusses his sporting career with his start in athletics and his road to the Sydney Olympics cut short. It was due to this that led him to be introduced to bobsleigh with no idea what it is – introducing the movie Cool Runnings. Bill had a tough upbringing, but it was because of this that created his drive and persistence. He had an incredible sporting journey and was the first American team to medal in Bobsleigh in several years. He also chats about the mental challenges he faced from childhood to sport to life after sport. He is able to articulate so well what he went through and how he was able to overcome it. Bill provided some great advice and I hope you enjoy the episode.

You can follow him on Instagram @billschuffenhauer

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Chris. Chris is a running coach and also a runner himself. Chris talks about his love for running and the satisfaction he gets from it. He had a big career change from being in a 9 to 5 job to becoming a running coach. He wanted the opportunity to pursue something he loves and being able to share that passion with others. Chris speaks about his own running journey and his marathon experiences. Within Chris’ story he has some great advice and wisdom that can not only be applied to any sport but also life in general. I really enjoyed chatting with Chris and I hope you enjoy the episode.

You can follow him on Instagram @knightonruns

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Deja Young-Craddock. Deja is an American Paralympian in athletics. Deja speaks about her physical impairment and her introduction to sport which led to her amazing career so far. Deja made her first senior team in 2015. She talks about the highs and lows she has experienced and what led to her suicide attempt. She speaks about her support network and how that helped with her quick turnaround to the Paralympic games. Deja is also a new mum and she talks about the excitement but also the grief that she experienced. It was a pleasure getting to chat with Deja and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

You can follow her on Instagram @_dejyou

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode I am joined by Self Worth Sam. Sam is an imposter syndrome expert, author, and public speaker. Sam explains what imposter syndrome is and his fascination with it that lead him to devoting his career to talking about its effects. We also discuss self-worth and some tips on how we can build it up ourselves. Sam speaks about how self-worth and imposter syndrome can be evident in sport and in particular athletes. He is able to provide explanations of each whilst also giving advice, tips, and strategies to improve. I hope you learn something new and enjoy the episode!

You can follow him on Instagram @selfworthsam

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Gaby Villa. Gaby is a sports and athlete nutritionist specialising in ultra-endurance nutrition. Her role through ‘IntensEATfit’ is to make your life easier, provide you with the tools that will help you take control of your diet, and make it your best ally to achieve your goals in sport and life. Gaby talks about how she became a nutritionist and her personal love for sports. We then delve into the role food can play in our mental health, sport, and even periods. I also ask Gaby about body image and what impact social media has especially around festive periods and new year marketing. Gaby speaks about some potential snack options in relation to some sporting examples. It was awesome to be able to chat with Gaby and broaden my knowledge on nutrition and helpfully you can learn something too!

You can follow her on Instagram @intenseatfit

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I talk you through a mindfulness exercise. Visualisation, also known as, imagery or mental rehearsal, is defined as using all your senses to rehearse your sport in your mind. Its main purpose is to aid the replication of the competitive environment, whilst in a training scenario. It is a form of conditioning for your brain for successful outcomes. The more you mentally rehearse your performance, the more it becomes habituated in your mind. Think of visualization in sports as a pregame walk-through.  I hope you find this exercise helpful and you can play me over and over whenever you need it! There is no intro or outro so you can just focus on the exercise! 

You can follow me on Instagram @reneeeeefox To keep up to date with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Kiah Melverton and Lachlan Carter both elite swimmers. This episode is the first in a new series based on different themes. This episode's theme is all things body image. Now, this episode was originally supposed to be released prior to Christmas and some of the conversation highlights that but everything we speak about is still very relevant. I hope to continue with this series bringing a new topic of conversation each episode with 2 guests sharing their varying experiences around the topic. Body image is something we all have, and Kiah and Lachie were kind enough to share their thoughts and experiences surrounding it. We dive straight into the chat so if you want to know about Lachie and Kiah they have both been on the podcast before so go check out their episodes too!

You can follow them on Instagram @melvertonkiah and @lachlan__carter

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I take a look back at the year that was, 2022. I was fortunate enough to interview a lot of great guests this year whilst also taking the middle of the year off to write and complete my thesis. I want to say thank you to everyone that has been on the podcast as a guest, your vulnerability and willingness to share are incredible. I would also like to thank a few people from behind the scenes who have been there to bounce ideas off. A massive thank you to all the listeners. Thank you for your ongoing support and let’s bring on 2023. If you have any feedback or suggestions or guests that you might like, please feel free to DM on the podcast's Instagram page. So, I have compiled a snippet of audio from each episode released in 2022. These will be in order of release date and each snippet of audio is the 3 questions that I always ask my guests, something they are most proud of, their favourite quotes, and/or advice and tips for the listeners. If there is something you missed or want to hear again you should go back and listen to each episode in full.

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Ethan Calleja. Ethan is an ex-swimmer who transitioned into synchronized swimming. I think Ethan’s story is so captivating from his success in swimming to building upon that in his synchro career. His willingness to try something new as an adult and to have worked so hard for the success of being the first male to represent Australia in synchro and compete at the 2019 world championships is something I find truly remarkable. Ethan also describes how he experienced a period of grief after stepping away from swimming and articulates it so well. He also shared so many embarrassing and funny stories as well as the incredible people he has met along the way. I hope you enjoy this episode with Ethan as much as I did, and I feel lucky to be able to call him a friend!

You can follow her on Instagram @ecalleja99

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Molly. Molly is an online coach and a fitness enthusiast. Molly shares her journey as to why she created her Instagram and how it has built into the community it is now. She also is able to articulate how our bodies change for a variety of different reasons and how normal it is. Molly has this confidence in herself and her ability to be vulnerable and share her experiences is something I admire. We had a lot of laughs throughout and I genuinely felt so happy and better about myself after our chat. I hope you are able to take something away from this episode or even a little more comfortable in your own skin!

You can follow her on Instagram @mollyavafit

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Sarah Walsh. Sarah is a para-athlete and competed at her first Paralympics in Rio 2016. Sarah shares her background in athletics, and her journey into long jump being her main event. Sarah talks about her paralympic encounters both highs and lows and the different experiences she had in Rio compared to Tokyo. Sarah is so proud of her disability and this is evident throughout this chat. She also speaks about the para-athlete space, her views, and where she hopes to see the growth of the community and events in the future. Sarah was lovely to chat with, wishing her all the best in her career. I hope you enjoy the episode as much as me!

You can follow her on Instagram @sarah_walsh14

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode I am joined by Chelsea Hodges. Chelsea competed at her first Olympics in Tokyo 2021 and then at the Commonwealth Games this year. Chelsea shares her background in swimming including facing the hard reality returning from Tokyo. She explains her struggles, the importance of talking about them and how she was able to overcome it. She also shared some embarrassing moments that have happened along the way, so there is laughing, successful moments and the challenging times. Chelsea was also kind enough to share a discount code from her sponsor LSKD to get 10% use the code CHELSEALSKD

Chelsea was an absolute delight and honour to chat to, wishing her all the best in her career. I hope you enjoy the episode as much as me!

You can follow her on Instagram @chelsea.hodges

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Mubal Azzam Ibrahim. Mubal competed at his first Olympics in Tokyo 2021 representing his home country, the Maldives. Mubal was born and raised in the Maldives before moving to Australia at the age of 17, leaving school early to pursue his dream of swimming. Basing himself in Melbourne at Surrey Park and attending Swinburne University, was a big adjustment. He has been able to immerse himself in what he describes as an intense and fierce swimming culture and absolutely loves it! Mubal was able to provide an insight into what its like competing internationally and his lockdown lead into the Olympics. Mubal is a hardworking teammate of mine and it was awesome being able to chat with him on the podcast and provide a platform for him to share his journey so far. I hope you enjoy the episode!

You can follow her on Instagram @mubalazzam

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I talk you through a mindfulness exercise.  In our modern-day world, as many find themselves ‘caught up in the mind,’ we often lack a full sense of being ‘grounded.’ When we are grounded, we are deeply present with the body, with the breath, and with the world around and within us. The mind is at greater ease and we move through our day with greater presence. The good news is that when we are feeling ungrounded, a simple grounding practice can bring us back into the earth and into our bodies. This simple exercise is an example of that. I hope you find this exercise helpful and you can play me over and over whenever you need it!

There is no intro or outro so you can just focus on the exercise!

Reflection questions:

1. How did it feel to ground yourself in this way? Which parts of it were the most settling for you (i.e. connecting with the earth, with the breath, or with your body)?

2. How did your sense of presence change from before the practice to the end of it? Reflect upon any shifts that occurred in both mind and body.

You can follow me on Instagram @reneeeeefox

To keep up to date with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Hamish McDougall. Hamish has been swimming a long time and has been at Surrey Park Swim Club his whole life. Hamish is recently retired from competitive swimming, and it was a great opportunity to chat with him about his career. He talked about how he started out and then when it became more serious around his teenage years. He speaks to the lessons he’s learnt as well as the setbacks and highlights. Failure, risks, friendships, team trips, and defining success are just some of the insightful topics Hamish touches on. Hamish has had a great swimming career and is looking forward to his next chapter in life some of which involved sharing his wisdom with the next generation of swimmers. I could chat to Hamish for hours and a part 2 maybe something to keep your eye out for. I hope you enjoy this chat as much as I did!

You can follow him on Instagram @hamishmcdougall1

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Kiah Melverton. Kiah is a swimmer who competed in her first Olympics in Tokyo in 2021. Kiah grew up with both lifesaving and swimming. Swimming didn’t become her first priority until she was around 15. Kiah has always loved being in the water and as she has learnt a lot along the way in her career so far. Kiah opens up about her experiences with body image, comparison, and confidence particularly around the pool deck and in the presence of other female swimmers. We also chat about the importance of rest and how much of a learning curve that is and how we are both still trying to navigate through its many challenges including guilt. Kiah speaks about her self-talk, doubt, and the pressure she puts on herself and gives an insight into how this presented itself in one of her races. Kiah was awesome to chat to and I was able to learn and relate to so many things we discussed. I hope you enjoy the episode!

You can follow her on Instagram @melvertonkiah

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, it's all about me! I reflect on 2021 from an overview of the first year of my podcast, things I have learnt, challenges I've faced, highlights of 2021, and what I'm looking forward to in 2022! This is the last episode for 2021 BUT there is more in 2022 so stay tuned!

I would appreciate it if you could please spread the love by sharing, following, review and rating my podcast and any episodes that you have loved listening to!

You can follow my personal Instagram @reneeeeefox

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Lucy Single. Lucy is an AFLW player for the Gold Coast Suns. Lucy started out in rugby and played various other sports too before transitioning across to AFL. Lucy had a great first season with the Suns and is excited as to what’s to come. She talks about trying to find a balance between being a professional athlete, studying, and enjoying a social life. She is confident within herself and comfortable in sticking to her values although she mentions that it can be tricky at times. It was great to chat with Lucy to find out more about her career and to gain insight into the AFLW landscape. Lucy was super easy to chat to and I hope you enjoy our chat!

You can follow her on Instagram @lucyysinglee

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Cooper Chapman. Cooper is a professional surfer who is also the founder of The Good Human Factory. Cooper talks about how The Good Human Factory came about, what his aspirations are and how his good human podcast interlinks too. He is very passionate about mental health and raising awareness around it. Meditation is something that Cooper uses daily and encourages others as well. It’s from his mediation and practicing gratitude that he started the 1% club which now has 100’s of others involved too. His professional surfing career started at a young age and is still travelling around the world. Cooper is a wealth of knowledge and super easy to have a conversation with. I’m grateful for that I had the opportunity to chat with Cooper, and I hope that you enjoy listening!

You can follow her on Instagram @cooperchapman @thegoodhumanfactory

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, it's all about me! I created a whole episode dedicated to talking about injury. I start from the onset of my injury and detail everything that's happened over the last almost 3 years. I speak about when I found out my back was broken, all of the physio I had, and then having surgery. Recovery is a long hard process that is physically, mentally, and emotionally taxing. There are so many lows that I experienced during this time but starting to have some highs now that I am on the other side. Whilst I'm not completely out of the woods yet, I can finally start to see the light of the end of the tunnel. I wanted to create this episode for anyone that is navigating any kind of injury, my story is unique so I hope there is something you can take away from it.

I would appreciate it if you could please spread the love by sharing, following, review and rating my podcast and any episodes that you have loved listening to!

You can follow my personal Instagram @reneeeeefox

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Beth Tannatt. Beth is a recent 3rd medallist at the CrossFit Games. Beth talks so openly about her life thus far including her tractor-trailer/car accident where she nearly lost her leg, was in a coma for 10days and was in the hospital for 5months. She describes what the rehab process was like and how that lead her into other avenues of exercise like bodybuilding. Her body-building journey created some challenges which lead her to taking some time away from it and starting CrossFit. Beth explains her relationship with food and her body image has fluctuated and how she is in a much better mindset with it now. Beth’s posts on social media are raw and inspiring just like my candid conversation with her. I hope you enjoy this episode with my very first international guest!

You can follow her on Instagram @bicepslikebeth

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Caitlin Sargent Jones. Caitlin is a recently retired Olympic track and field athlete. Caitlin talks about how her start in athletics wasn’t a typical one and how her use of small goals has helped her achieve amazing things in her career. Caitlin is also a physio and she explains how she had an internal struggle with herself with her physio brain and her athlete brain particularly when it came to injuries. She mentions how seeing a sports psychologist really helped her mindset shift between the 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. This was the first time I got to ask an athlete about the transition into retirement and Caitlin articulates it so well. We discuss identity and how there is a grieving process too. Caitlin shares some great insights that she has learnt throughout her career and I hope you can learn as much as I did!

You can follow her on Instagram @caitlin.sargentjones

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Harriet Brown. Harriet has competed as a professional ironwoman for several years. Harriet talks about her start in lifesaving and all the other sports she participated in growing up. We delve into her incredible board race in Hawaii that is over 50km long! We also touch on experiences with injury and how it can challenge us mentally. Speaking to a sports psych really helped Harriet feel validated during those times. Harriet is also involved with one of my personal fav swimwear brands, Jolyn, and does Instagram live sessions. The topics that are covered in those are absolutely awesome so if you haven’t checked those out yet, I highly recommend them! I had such a good chat with Harriet, and we explore some great topics and what she has learnt along the way. I hope you enjoy it!

You can follow her on Instagram @harrietbrown

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Brenden Hall. Brenden is a 4x Para Olympic swimmer and 3x Para Olympic gold medallist. Brenden and I chat about his start in swimming and how he lost his leg and some of his hearing. He talked about how swimming was a place for him where he felt like it was an even playing field and his disability didn’t hold him back. He reiterates throughout our chat that the only limitations are the ones you put on yourself. Brenden delves into his experiences across each Olympic Games and how his results in Tokyo left him feeling like he had failed. There are some great lessons in this in how we can take out the positives in situations where we feel like crap. Brenden still has a passion for swimming which is evident in the way he talks, and Paris 2024 is on the cards. I had a blast getting to know Brenden and his sense of humour comes out in our chat too! I hope you enjoy listening!

You can follow her on Instagram @brendenhall93

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Emily Abbot. Emily is one of Australia’s first Olympic rhythmic gymnasts who competed in Tokyo this year. In chatting to Emily, you can just tell by the way she talks that she is so passionate and how much she loves her gymnastics. We talk about her journey through sport from how she got into gymnastics to injuries and to achieving her childhood dream of competing at the Olympics. She touches on some great topics of nerves, imposter syndrome and how we both are trying to establish our identity away from our sport. Emily was a ray of sunshine and loved chatting to her so much. I hope you enjoy this chat as much as me!

You can follow her on Instagram @emilyeabbot

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Off The Blocks Swimming Podcast host Robby Cox. This episode is a little different from other episodes as it is more of a collaboration and 2 podcasts coming together. We each talk about why we started our respective podcasts. We also discuss the things we have learnt from our guests and just podcasting in general. It was a great opportunity for me to chat to a more established podcast and exciting to know the potential of Perfectly Flawed. Robby and I share how grateful we are to have the opportunity to share athletes' stories and share out ultimate guests that we would love to chat to. We did have a few tech difficulties which the magic of editing was able to disguise most of. This episode is a great chat between Robby and myself so make sure you have a listen and check out his podcast too!

You can follow his podcast on Instagram @offtheblocksswimmingpodcast

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Amy Bahn and Eloise Thompson. This episode is in light of Deakins wellness week where the 3 of us answer some common questions. We discuss things ranging from lockdown motivation, meaningful connection, being a supportive friend, embarrassing sport story and our Deakin sports highlight. This is episode is long, but I think it’s definitely worth while listening. We do dissect some serious topics, but we also have a few laughs too. Sometimes you can hear some feedback in the audio so apologies for that, I’ve done my best with editing magic. This episode is a great chat between Amy, Eloise and myself so make sure you have a listen, I had so much fun recording with them!

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Todd Jarratt. Todd is a mental performance coach where he reconditions the subconscious mind. Todd shared what it is he does and what led him into this line of work. He talks about his background in sport and exercise science and his passion for helping athletes and everyone in between achieve their goals. Todd sheds light on the impact that our subconscious minds have on our performance that most of us, including myself, don’t even realise is happening. There is so much valuable information in this chat that I believe we can all learn from. Todd loves a chat so if you love this episode and want to know more let me know so we can do a part 2!

You can follow him on Instagram @todd_jarratt

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast

In this episode, I am joined by Mariafe Artacho del Solar. Mariafe is beach volleyball player who recently competed at the Tokyo Olympics. Mariafe has a strong sense of who she is and how being a good person first is what motivates her. She talks about her journey through sport, achievements, and setbacks. She talks about you can’t let anyone or anything stop you from achieving your goals and dreams, never limit yourself. Mariafe speaks about her positive mindset and the importance of focusing on the process and doing your best. I enjoyed chatting with Mariafe so much, she is so bubbly and was a delight to talk to so I’m sure you’ll love listening!

You can follow her on Instagram @mariafe_beach1

To keep up with the podcast follow the Instagram page @perfectly_flawed_podcast