Episode 193

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Published on:

10th Oct 2025

#193 – Peter Brock’s Legacy: Lessons in Leadership with David Whitehead

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Episode Summary:


This episode is a rare and heartfelt look into the life and legacy of Peter Brock, told through the eyes of someone who knew him best. Ian Hawkins sits down with David Whitehead, who spent over a decade working alongside “Brocky” and saw first-hand what made him not just a motorsport icon but a leader and mentor who lived by purpose, optimism, and unshakable belief.


David shares how a chance encounter with Peter Brock completely changed the course of his life, from an eager young apprentice to becoming Brock’s trusted right-hand man. Through vivid stories from the pit lane and personal reflections, David gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the golden era of Australian motorsport: the camaraderie, the chaos, and the lessons that stretched far beyond the racetrack.


From the controversial Energy Polarizer saga to Brock’s approach to trust, nerves, and resilience, David offers fresh insight into what truly fuelled the man behind the legend. It’s an emotional journey that celebrates loyalty, learning under pressure, and the human side of greatness, capped with a powerful message about legacy, leadership, and the kind of belief that still inspires generations of athletes, coaches, and dreamers today.



About the Guest:


David Whitehead


David Whitehead is a seasoned business leader with over 30 years of experience across various industries, including automotive, sales, and business development. However, it’s his decade-long relationship with Australian motorsport icon Peter Brock that defines his career and life. Having started as a fan watching Brock race at Sandown, David’s chance meeting with the legend on the street led to a trusted partnership that saw him work closely with Brock in various roles, from HDT Racing to Brock Motor Company.


Through his work with Brock, David gained invaluable insights into leadership, resilience, and the power of positive expectation, lessons that continue to shape his approach to business and life. Today, David is the Group General Manager at Sheen Panel Service, where he leads business development and client relations across 27 locations


About the Host:


Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.


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About the Podcast

Sport Is Life
It's More Than Just A Game
The Sport Is Life podcast explores how sport can positively change your life. Join us as we delve into the powerful life lessons that sport teaches you, lessons that can be applied to every aspect of your life. Host Ian Hawkins shares wisdom and insights gained from a lifetime of experience as an athlete, husband, father, PE teacher, community volunteer, manager at Fox Sports and a performance coach to elite athletes, business owners, corporate leaders, and other coaches. Tune in to hear how sports can provide the tools you need to excel in your personal and professional life. From practical advice to heartfelt stories, the "Sport Is Life Podcast" is your guide to unlocking the potential within you through the power of sport.

Sport is more than just a game; Sport Is Life.

About your host

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Ian Hawkins

Ian Hawkins, host of "Sport Is Life," is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.