Episode 220

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Published on:

20th Nov 2025

#224 – From R360 to the Ashes; Plus the Jake Paul Farce: Week In Review

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Episode Summary:


In this week’s solo review, Ian dives into a big week in rugby league and cricket, starting with the hype around Fox League’s Rugby 360 documentary. He unpacks why behind-the-scenes access is so addictive for fans, how it shapes the narrative of players and coaches, and what it reveals about the pressure cooker of the modern NRL environment. From there, he shifts to the ongoing saga of the North Sydney Bears, highlighting the frustration around their lack of signings and what it says about expansion, identity, and the politics around bringing a foundation club back to the top level.


The conversation then takes a sharp turn into the circus of crossover combat sports, as Ian reacts to the talk of Jake Paul fighting Anthony Joshua. He calls out the mismatch for what it is – entertainment dressed up as sport – and explores what these “events” mean for how we value genuine high performance versus social media hype. To close, he looks ahead to the Ashes, breaking down Pat Cummins’ absence, Scott Boland’s incredible record in Australia, and Steve Smith stepping in as captain with an even better batting average when he leads. It’s a blend of opinion, humour, and insight that ties together fan passion, media narratives, and the mental load on elite athletes as another massive summer of cricket looms.


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.