S4:E40 Beyond the Role: Identity, Transition & Human-Centric Leadership with Rick Cotgreave
Rick Cotgreave is a specialist in human transformation—guiding elite athletes, coaches, and leaders through the deeper layers of transition, identity, and performance. From his days as an England lacrosse player to his work in high-performance sport and leadership development, Rick brings a powerful blend of lived experience, curiosity, and wisdom.
Rick’s journey began with chasing performance—and like many, believing “I’ll be happy when…” But a pivotal moment of identity reckoning launched him on a new path. Now, he supports others in moving from role-based definitions of success to something more grounded, sustainable, and human.
And this is why I’m excited to share this conversation. Rick breaks down the myths of success, explores the spiritual and psychological dimensions of transition, and offers practical insights into how we can lead—and live—with deeper alignment. If you're navigating change, questioning your identity, or searching for more than just titles, this one’s for you.
Talking points:
- From lacrosse to leadership: when the joy becomes a job
- Breaking free from the "I'll be happy when..." mindset
- The power of identity work in performance and transition
- How First Steps helps athletes navigate life beyond sport
- Leadership as a human-first endeavor—what that actually means
- Using mindfulness and neuroscience to guide transformation
- Introducing spiritual language into high-performance spaces
- Interrogating the mantra of “Better Never Stops”
- Simple, effective tools for navigating transitions with clarity
- Why curiosity—not certainty—is the key to growth
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Resources:
- Men Behind Sport Support
- The High-Performance Coach’s Guide to Lasting Change
- Gaia Games Summit 2026: Join the Movement!
