This week on The Mounting Block, we’re joined by an absolute powerhouse — five-time Olympian and beach volleyball gold medallist Natalie Cook! From the sandy courts of Sydney 2000 to life beyond elite sport, Nat shares what it really takes to reach the pinnacle of performance and how she transitioned into her post-athletic life with purpose.

We dive into the mental grit, goal-setting, and laser-sharp focus required to chase down a dream — whether it’s Olympic gold or simply finding joy in something new (like maybe getting Nat into the saddle!). With plenty of laughs, inspiring takeaways, and a few curveballs along the way, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

So… can we convince a beach volleyball legend to swap the sand for stirrups?