Eliza McCartney - Olympic Medals, Fame & Injuries

With the Paris Olympics around the corner this week we’re rewinding the clock back to August 2022 when we sat down with New Zealand pole-vaulter Eliza McCartney.

Eliza is one of the VERY best in the world, but at the time of recording her career had stalled after an unfortunate run of injuries.

Incredibly, this was her first ever podcast appearance, and we’re grateful she came on to share her story.

Eliza burst onto the scene as a 19-year-old, taking home bronze from the Rio Olympics, before claiming silver at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, and smashing indoor and outdoor Oceania records.

But then the setbacks started.

We talk about her rise to the top of track and field and the whirlwind of fame that followed her Olympic bronze, then the mental and physical struggle of dealing with her injuries – and how she was rebuilding.

Today, aged 27, she's back to full fitness and has qualified for the Paris Olympics - where she will compete in August.

Best laugh: Eliza’s coach makes her tell a joke each week and she gives us an example, see what you think!?

Best insight: In the second half of the episode we go quite deep on her injury situation, and you’ll get a really clear picture of what a tough few years it had been for her.

Biggest surprise: Eliza’s strong feelings towards Te Ao Māori and how it shapes her world view.

Reflection Interviews

There is no substitute for hearing your loved ones story, told in their voice.

Reflection Interviews are the best way to record and preserve your most precious memories.

We’d love to have your input, and hear whose life you’d want to capture in a podcast format.

B2B Speakers

You've heard their incredible stories on our podcast, and now you can share them with your colleagues, clients and community. Our inspirational speakers and MCs are available for your next function or event. Give us a shout today, we’d love to chat.

Each week we release some never before seen insights about the pod. If you aren’t already sign up here.