Rodney “Rocket” Cottam served as an elite soldier in the Australian Army from 1999 to 2004, involved in high-level operations both at home and abroad. But his military career was cut short after a near-fatal motorbike accident left him with life-changing injuries and led to a medical discharge. After years of intensive rehab, Rodney pivoted into a successful two-decade career in financial services, leading high-performing teams across funds management and mortgage lending.
Now an ultra trail runner and proud Ambassador for Invictus Australia, Rodney competes in 100km and 100-mile races around the world. In this deeply personal episode, he shares how he’s channelled the habits, discipline, and mental toughness forged in the military into a new purpose—one fuelled by endurance, service, and resilience. From spinal surgery and bionic reconstruction to running 560km to raise funds for veterans, Rodney’s story is a powerful testament to the human spirit.
Run Rocket Run - runrocketrun.com / @runrocketrun
Invictus Australia - invictusaustralia.org / @invictusaustralia
The Cowbell Podcast episode is brought to you by Kelvin Yip from "Endu1 - Endurance Fuel & Hydration" @endu1sportsnutrition and Dave Stewart @_daventures_, the legendary trail race MC.