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Matthew Lloyd, former Australian Olympic cyclist and King of Mountains winner at the Giro d'Italia, shares his powerful journey of transition after career-ending injuries led to addiction and ultimately transformation.

In this episode, we chat about how he:
• Found freedom and joy in cycling from childhood, exploring nature with his brother
• Shifted from triathlon to cycling when coaches noticed his exceptional cycling talent despite poor swimming skills
• Became Australian national champion in 2008 and represented Australia at Beijing Olympics
• Won the prestigious King of Mountains classification at 2010 Giro d'Italia, becoming the first Australian to do so
• Suffered multiple injuries including brain trauma that began a downward spiral in his career
• Survived a catastrophic hit-and-run accident in 2014 that left him with fractured skull, broken spine, and brain injury
• Struggled with identity loss, substance use issues and mental health challenges during decade-long rehabilitation
• Found healing through vulnerability and accepting support after hitting rock bottom
• Now works as a mentor helping others navigate transitions using his lived experience
• Believes the greatest growth comes from finding meaning in hardship and embracing challenges

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Ready to explore your own second act after sport? Connect with Ryan Gonsalves and the 2NDWind Academy to discover how your athletic experience can become your professional advantage here: www.2ndwind.io