In this episode of the BYOB Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Carol Cooke AM - a Paralympic gold medallist, author, keynote speaker, and all-around powerhouse - for a truly inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what it means to turn adversity into opportunity.
Carol shares her remarkable journey from being a competitive swimmer in Canada to becoming a decorated Australian Paralympian in cycling. But her story isn’t just about sport - it’s about strength in the face of life’s toughest curveballs. Diagnosed with MS at the age of 36, Carol was told she’d never compete again. Instead, she defied expectations, rebuilt her life, and ended up representing Australia at three Paralympic Games, taking home multiple gold medals. Talk about a comeback.
We talk about how it feels to have your entire identity shaken - and how Carol found new purpose by focusing on what she could do, rather than what she couldn’t. Her mindset is a masterclass in resilience. Carol speaks about embracing possibility, not limitation, and how that simple shift helped her rewrite her story.
Carol also takes us through her work outside of sport, including the 1,000+ kilometre charity ride she started to support others living with MS and her passion for public speaking. She’s a firm believer that we all have untapped strength within us - sometimes, we just need the right challenge to reveal it.
I reflect on how Carol’s story reinforces a powerful truth: success isn’t just about the wins - it’s about showing up, again and again, especially when things don’t go to plan. Her outlook is both grounding and uplifting, reminding us that no matter what life throws our way, we always have a choice in how we respond.
Carol also shares the process behind writing her books and how storytelling has become another way for her to connect, empower, and inspire others. We also touch on how sport and business both demand discipline, structure, and a deep understanding of your “why”.
Whether you’re chasing a dream, navigating a setback, or just in need of a mindset reset, this episode is a must-listen. Carol’s energy, humour, and unstoppable spirit will leave you rethinking what’s possible.
