Episode 216

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Published on:

17th Nov 2025

#220 – Why Great Leaders Praise More Than They Criticise

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Episode Summary:


In this episode, Ian dives into a powerful truth many leaders, parents, and athletes overlook, the impact of simply telling people what they’re doing well. After reconnecting with an old cricket mate who revealed he once admired Ian’s confidence, Ian reflects on how different life might look if we heard more of the right words at the right time. He unpacks why so many high performers undervalue their strengths and why leaders often hesitate to give genuine recognition, even when they see something great.


Through personal stories and practical insight, Ian explains why validation, encouragement, and recognition are essential ingredients in sport, business, and everyday life. He challenges listeners to rethink their instinct to criticise, hold back, or assume people already “know” their strengths. Instead, he shares how positive feedback builds identity, deepens connection, and elevates performance, and how failing to give it can cost someone years of confidence, momentum, or belief.


By the end of the episode, listeners are encouraged to step into real leadership: to speak up, lift others, and become the kind of person whose words can change a life, not decades later but right now.


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.