Episode 14. If you can’t get to the start line, you can’t even compete with World Champion Steve Judge

THIS EPISODE WILL BE LAUNCHING IN APRIL 2026

In this episode, Sarah Brennand is joined by Steve Judge for a powerful and grounded conversation about resilience, recovery, and what it takes to pursue meaningful goals after life-altering adversity.

Steve shares his journey following a near-fatal car accident in 2002 that left both legs crushed and led to the belief that he might never walk again. What followed were years of reconstruction and rehabilitation, during which his focus shifted from survival and mobility to rebuilding physical capability, mental discipline, and purpose.

Through structured self-care, progressive goal-setting, and a relentless focus on mindset, Steve transitioned into para-sport and went on to compete at the highest level, becoming a two-time Paratriathlon World Champion, winning world titles for Great Britain in China and New Zealand. The conversation explores what it truly means to get to the start line, not just in sport, but in life and leadership, by doing the unseen work that makes performance possible.

Steve also introduces his GOLD model, a practical framework for setting and pursuing goals with clarity and intent. He reflects on the importance of understanding why goals matter, surrounding yourself with the right support, and staying open to opportunity as paths evolve. Throughout the discussion, the emphasis remains on personal responsibility, adaptability, and enjoying the journey rather than fixating on outcomes alone.

Key Topics Covered

• Recovering from major injury and rebuilding physical and mental capacity
• Being told you may never walk again, and redefining what’s possible
• The discipline required to reach the start line before you can compete
• Self-care and injury prevention as foundations of sustainable performance
• Mindset shifts that support recovery, motivation, and achievement
• Transitioning from rehabilitation to elite para-sport
• Becoming a two-time Paratriathlon World Champion for Great Britain
• The GOLD model: structuring goals with purpose and direction
• Visualisation as a tool for belief, energy, and momentum
• The role of support systems and accountability
• Regular self-reflection, reassessment, and course correction
• Learning to enjoy progress, not just the finish line

Steve Judge is a motivational speaker, author and former world champion paratriathlete whose story has inspired audiences across the UK and internationally. After a near-fatal car accident in 2002 left both legs crushed, Steve was told he might never walk again. Years of reconstruction and rehabilitation followed - years that redefined his mindset, resilience, and goals. Through disciplined recovery and progressive physical targets, Steve entered para-sport and went on to become a two-time Paratriathlon World Champion, winning titles for Great Britain in China and New Zealand.