Head Game

December 10th 2015 was a day that changed everything for champion surfer, Owen Wright. He fought for his life and faced extensive brain trauma, following a severe wipeout at Pipeline in Hawaii. The journey back to the ocean, was a difficult one. In this inspiring conversation, Owen reflects on that fateful day, and shares the mindset tools that helped aid his recovery. He's one of the country's best surfers - and through resilience and determination, made one incredible comeback.   LINKS Learn more about Owen's memoir Against The Water here Follow Owen on Instagram @owright Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Crossland has been a fighter since birth. He defied the odds of surviving Neuroblastoma - a rare life-threatening cancer, and was the sole survivor of a cancer drug trial.  He speaks to Ant about his lifetime of challenges and lessons. When the odds are stacked against him, time after time - Michael defies those odds. And, he's on a journey to inspire others along the way.  LINKS Learn more about Michael Crossland at michaelcrossland.com Follow Michael on Instagram @michaelcrossland Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For South Australian anaesthetist Richard 'Harry' Harris, cave diving was just a hobby and a passion. After starting in the mid 80s, his love of exploration and adventure took him on many journeys, exploring caves and shipwrecks across the world.  But in 2018, the unique combination of Harry's professional and person lives led to the rescue of 12 boys and their coach from the Tham Luang cave in Northern Thailand.  He's reluctant to be called a hero - but that's exactly what he is. It was one of the riskiest rescue operations of all time, but he knew he had to get the boys back to their parents, one way or another.  LINKS Listen to Harry's Real Risk podcast at realriskpodcast.com Follow Harry on Instagram at @realriskpodcast Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comedian and former SAS Australia star, Merrick Watts, joins Ant for an insightful conversation this week. He reflects on his rise to radio stardom, the fracture of beloved duo Merrick and Rosso, and the 'epoch' moment that forced him to change the course of his life.  Ant and Merrick reunite in the same Nova 96.9 studio that Merrick once broadcasted in each morning. A vastly different setting from their previous meeting as Staff and Number 10.  LINKS Follow Merrick Watts on Instagram @merrickwatts Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Recognise your calling - all you have to do is answer it. Every day, you have to answer that call to your own greatness". Phil Heath is the epitome of discipline and strength. Physically - through winning Mr Olympia seven times, and mentally - through overcoming battles with mental ill-health. Following the release of his new documentary Breaking Olympia: The Phil Heath Story, he spoke to Ant about his life lessons, toughest challenges, and what the mindset of a champion looks like.  Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide. If you think you need immediate assistance, call 000. If you would like to speak to someone about your situation, you may wish to contact Lifeline. Lifeline – Call 13 11 14, or visit www.lifeline.org.au. LINKS Breaking Olympia: The Phil Heath Story is available now on digital platforms. Find out more here. Follow Phil Heath on Instagram @philheath Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered how you build a business from scratch? Seven years ago Brittney Saunders started a business in her garage. Today it’s grown to an 8-figure empire with almost 60 employees, four retail shops and a booming online store.  Big Business is a brand new podcast from Nova Podcasts where she unpacks exactly how she did it. Each week, Brittney will take you behind the scenes of the day to day of running a business and teach you all the lessons she wishes she’d known from the start. She'll also interview other inspiring founders to get their entrepreneurial wisdom.  Follow and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No oxygen, no goggles, 122m beneath the surface. This, is Arnaud Jerald's happy place.  The French Freediver may just be 28 years old, but he can include 'World Record Holder' on his resume.  He speaks to Ant today about his meteoric career, what it takes to push yourself to those depths, and the art of controlling your emotions.  LINKS Learn more about Arnaud Jerald on his website arnaudjerald.com Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the midst of the uncharted Amazon, after losing his three companions, Yossi Ghinsberg was tested to the extreme. For three harrowing weeks he battled to survive against all odds, and in the process, discovered his life purpose.  He's the author of the international best-seller ‘Jungle’, and the inspiring story has been made into a full-length feature film starring Daniel Radcliffe. Yossi takes Ant into his mindset during those three weeks - and shares the 'miracle' that saved his life.  LINKS Follow Yossi Ghinsberg on Instagram @yossi_ghinsberg Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Some of us choose to become victims, while others choose to become victors". Layne Beachley's path to success hasn't been an easy one. The seven-time world surfing legend embraced setbacks and used them to propel her growth - including adoption, mental illness and life-threatening injuries.  Layne opens up to Ant about her life lessons, loss and inspirational legacy. LINKS Find out more about The Awake Academy at awakeacademy.com.au Follow Layne Beachley on Instagram @laynebeachley Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeremy Evans is lucky to be alive. In August 2017, he survived a savage three-round mauling from a Grizzly Bear. He suffered severe injuries, and was faced with a 20km solo journey back to safety. Thanks to his resilience, setting 'micro goals' and Baby Shark, Jeremy shares his story with Ant today. In this episode, there is a mention of suicide. If this topic is triggering for you, please seek help by visiting Lifeline's website at https://www.lifeline.org.au/ or by calling 13 11 14. LINKS Jeremy is a survivor and mental health advocate, and aims to support others suffering with PTSD. You can donate to Jeremy and his work here, and find out more at www.grizzlydude.ca Find out more about Jeremy's book, Mauled: Life’s Lessons Learned from a Grizzly Bear Attack here. Follow Jeremy on Instagram @thegrizzlydude1 Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If anyone's living life to the fullest, it's Pam Reed. Pam was the first female to be the overall winner of one of the toughest races in the world - Badwater. She won twice - and was the first person to run over 300 miles without sleeping in 72 hours.  In this episode, Pam speaks to Ant about her ability to push through mental and physical blocks, her battles with anorexia and love of getting the most out of every day.  CW: This episode contains discussions of eating disorders. If you think you need immediate assistance, call 000. If you would like to speak to someone about your situation, you may wish to contact one of the following services.  Lifeline – Call 13 11 14, or visit www.lifeline.org.au. The Butterfly Foundation – Call 1800 334 673 or visit www.butterfly.org.au. LINKS Find out more about Pam's book, The Extra Mile: One Woman's Personal Journey to Ultra-Running Greatness here. Follow Pam Reed on Instagram @pamreed100 Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Wolo has a miraculous survival story. In a freak accident while helping out a mate, he was crushed by 10 000lbs of granite. His head was less than 3 inches wide, and he died for six minutes.  Thanks to his quick-thinking best friends, he was brought back to life. But still, his chance of survival was bleak and just 2%.  In this incredible story of resilience, friendship and perseverance, Mike proves that despite a long recovery road - you can do anything you put your mind to.  LINKS Read more on Mike Wolo's website theothersideoftherock.com  Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website antmiddleton.com Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. Want to see Ant live on stage? Click here for his current tour dates. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's episode, Ant crowns our guest as officially being 'The most hardcore woman on the planet'. A professional Ironwoman at just 17, Bonnie Hancock has competed in 9 Nutri-Grain Ironwoman Series, representing Australia. Bonnie recently became the fastest person to paddle a surf ski 12,700 km around the Australian coastline. Today, she takes us into her mind during that epic journey - sharing the highs, lows, and how she kept going.  LINKS Follow Bonnie Hancock on Instagram here Learn more about Bonnie's new book The Girl Who Touched The Stars here Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/  Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tia-Clair Toomey Orr is one inspiring woman. She's won the CrossFit Games every year from 2017-2022, was a Rio 2016 Olympan and is a Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist. She's also a gym-owner, author - and most recently, Mum. In this episode, Tia-Clair and Ant discuss conquering goals, breaking down barriers, and what it takes to become #1. LINKS Follow Tia-Clair Toomey Orr here Learn more about Tia's new book The Heart Is The Strongest Muscle here Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/  Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. Want to see Ant live on stage? Click here for his current tour dates. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Safiyya Vorajee is the epitome of strength. This inspiring woman has had to endure unimaginable heartbreak and loss, and is now using her pain and her voice to help others.  In this powerful conversation, Safiyya opens up about her "second life". She talks about how her childhood with domestic violence shaped her, the power of love and purpose, and how her beautiful daugher, Azaylia, is a light in heaven, while she is a light on earth.  Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence and suicide. If you think you need immediate assistance, call 000. If you would like to speak to someone about your situation, you may wish to contact one of the following services.  Lifeline – Call 13 11 14, or visit www.lifeline.org.au. 1800RESPECT – Call 1800 737 732, or visit www.1800respect.org.au. LINKS Donate to The Azaylia Foundation here: https://theazayliafoundation.com/  Follow Safiyya on Instagram @miss_safiyya_ Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/  Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. Want to see Ant live on stage? Click here for his current tour dates. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blake Johnston is one unstoppable force. In March 2023, Blakey completed an astonishing goal - breaking the world record of surfing for over 40 hours. Blakey is more than just a legendary surfer - he's a mental health advocate, Director of Cronulla Surfing Academy and a key note speaker.  His mission and his purpose stem from the hardest of heartbreaks - the loss of his father after he'd just turned 30.  CW: This episode contains discussions of suicide. If this episode raises any issues for you, help is available through Lifeline on 13 11 14 or via their website lifeline.org.au. LINKS Learn more about Blakey Johnston here Follow Blakey on Instagram @blakeyjohnston Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/  Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. Want to see Ant live on stage? Click here for his current tour dates. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle BeattieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is a special one. Ant is joined by fellow SAS royalty and his good friend, Ollie Ollerton. Ollie's career in the military began at the age of 18 when he joined the Royal Marine Commando's. Throughout his career, he's harnessed the power of the mind and is passionate about the power of finding your purpose. Today, he's the CEO of BREAK-POINT, and joins Ant for an inspirational and thought-provoking conversation.  CW: This episode contains discussions of suicide. If this episode raises any issues for you, help is available through Lifeline on 13 11 14 or via their website lifeline.org.au. LINKS Learn more about Ollie Ollerton and Break-Point here Find out more about Dry January 10K here Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/  Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. Want to see Ant live on stage? Click here for his current tour dates. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle Beattie Find more great podcasts like this at novapodcasts.com.au Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we produced this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, you'll hear from two men who have faced two incredibly tough battles. Pat Farmer ran from the North to the South Pole, and Jason McCartney survived the Bali Bombings. Both situations required unparalleled mental and physical strength - and they joined Ant to share their toughest moments.  CW: This episode contains discussions of suicide. If this episode raises any issues for you, help is available through Lifeline on 13 11 14 or via their website lifeline.org.au. LINKS Listen to Pat Farmer's episode in full here Listen to Jason McCartney's episode in full here Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/  Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. Want to see Ant live on stage? Click here for his current tour dates. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle Beattie Find more great podcasts like this at novapodcasts.com.au Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we produced this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special 'best of' episode, we hear from three people who have beaten the odds and survived the unthinkable - Todd Russell, Paul de Gelder and Jack Beaumont. LINKS Listen to Todd Russell's episode in full here Listen to Paul de Gelder's episode in full here Listen to Jack Beaumont's episode in full here Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/  Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. Want to see Ant live on stage? Click here for his current tour dates. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle Beattie Find more great podcasts like this at novapodcasts.com.au Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we produced this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We've heard some incredible stories in 2023 from an array of guests. Three guests in particular gave us a front row seat into a lifechanging moment. In this episode, you'll hear from Gary Jubelin, Chris Lemons and Sean Turnell.  LINKS Listen to Gary Jubelin's episode in full here  Listen to Chris Lemons' episode in full here Listen to Sean Turnell's episode in full here Follow Ant on Instagram, X, and Facebook Learn more about Ant on his website https://www.antmiddleton.com/  Follow Nova Podcasts on Instagram for videos from the podcast and behind the scenes content – @novapodcastsofficial. Want to see Ant live on stage? Click here for his current tour dates. CREDITSHost: Ant MiddletonEditor: Adrian WaltonExecutive Producers: Anna Henvest & Edwina StottManaging Producer: Elle Beattie Find more great podcasts like this at novapodcasts.com.au Nova Entertainment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which we produced this podcast, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.