In this episode, Shane and Andrea sit down with former Collingwood Football Club captain and Eclat CEO, Nick Maxwell, to explore his transition from professional football into the business world.

Nick shares what led him to pivot into a new chapter of his career, why he finds the lives of business owners so interesting, and the importance of building connections and community.

They dive into the differences, and more importantly the similarities, between elite sport and business; including the importance of seeking and giving feedback, striving for consistency, showing respect at all levels, and how creating the right environment helps individuals and teams perform at their best.

Connect with Nick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-maxwell-060a2922/

Explore Eclat: https://eclat.com/

More from Aintree Group: https://aintreegroup.com.au/

Fresh off 876 shows touring Australia with Beauty & The Beast, performer Amy Hopwood joins Q&A with S&A to share what life is really like behind the curtain.

From juggling competitive dance training throughout school to booking Disney’s Frozen before even graduating with her Performing Arts qualification, Amy opens up about breaking into the industry during COVID, surviving 8–9 show weeks, navigating imposter syndrome, and the loneliness of touring life.

They talk everything from career plans and education, to sacrifice and burnout, and the brave decision to step away and rediscover identity beyond the stage. Amy also shares her advice for young performers on how to stay grounded, supported, and keep the spark alive.

An honest look at the highs, the hustle, and the realities of life as a professional performer.

Connect with Amy on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/amyhopwood_/

Shane and Andrea chat with Aintree Group–sponsored athlete Kaylen Bassett for an inspiring and insightful conversation about family, resilience, and elite performance in canoe slalom.

Kaylen shares his unconventional journey into the sport, the strong family foundations that underpin his career, and the mental skills required to compete at the highest level. The conversation centres on a career-defining achievement — winning a bronze medal at the 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in Penrith, marking Australia’s first men’s C1 World Championship medal in over a decade.

From life on the World Cup circuit and the realities of constant international travel, to finding balance, entering flow state under pressure, celebrating success, and juggling work alongside elite sport, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it truly takes to perform on the world stage — and what lies ahead on the road to Oklahoma and the 2028 LA Olympic cycle.

Follow Kaylen's journey: https://kaylenbassett.com/ | IG: @kaylenbassett

Visit Paddle Australia website to see details of upcoming races and how you can support the Australian Paddling team: https://paddle.org.au/