#230 – From Setbacks to Success; Marty Kain on Leading Teams
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Episode Summary:
In this episode, Ian sits down with former New Zealand first-class cricketer and current U.S. cricket coach Marty Kain, whose journey spans three countries and countless lessons in leadership, belonging, and personal growth. Marty opens up about the unexpected challenges of leaving New Zealand cricket, moving across the world, and rebuilding his identity in a country where nobody knew his name and cricket barely registered on the sporting radar. Through honesty and humour, he shares how culture shock, financial struggle, and loneliness forced him to rethink what success and belonging really look like.
From coaching in the U.S. Major League Cricket pathway to working alongside cricket icons like Ricky Ponting, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, and Travis Head, Marty reveals what truly drives high-performing teams: clear communication, trust, alignment, and a deep sense of belonging. He explains why “11 people pulling in the same direction” matters more than any tactic, and how the best coaches use clarity, directness, and care to unlock peak performance.
The conversation also explores burnout, motivation, community, and how to lead people in a way that actually strengthens them. Marty’s candid stories, from cultural differences in America to mentoring top emerging talent, deliver practical insights for athletes, coaches, and anyone striving to lead with purpose and impact. It’s a grounded, powerful reminder that leadership is human first, tactical second.
About the Guest:
Marty Kain
New Zealand-American Cricketer
Marty has spent his career playing and coaching professional Cricket in New Zealand, England & now USA.
Well known for his energetic and loving personality, team focused approach & ability to get the best out of people.
Marty specializes in preparing teams and individuals for major tournaments, focusing on priming fielding and batting while fostering a cohesive team environment that drives everyone towards a shared goal.
Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martykainigsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr | https://www.instagram.com/mkcricket?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marty-kain-b9b260198/?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
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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