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Episode Summary:

In this episode, Ian sits down with communications expert and bestselling author Amit Chitre, whose new book The Other Playbook is reshaping how young athletes understand their identity, value, and influence both on and off the field. Amit shares the moment that sparked the idea, delivering a corporate branding workshop to his three sons, and realising that the lessons taught to executives were even more powerful when given to teenagers.

Amit explains how young athletes are constantly being watched, assessed, and judged, whether they realise it or not. He breaks down the concept of seeing yourself as a “product,” understanding who your “customers” are, and becoming intentional about how coaches, teachers, teammates, and even future employers perceive you. Through relatable stories, including personal examples and youth sport moments, he highlights the importance of brand values, daily behaviours, and self-awareness.

Together, Ian and Amit explore leadership, communication, personal responsibility, and the role parents and coaches play in shaping an athlete’s character. Packed with practical advice, this episode empowers young athletes to build clarity, confidence, and purpose in sport, school, and life.

About the Guest:

Amit Chitre

Founder/CEO

Amit Chitre is a communications expert with a breadth of experience in television news, public relations, crisis management, and leadership training. He’s worked with young professionals, mid-level managers, and senior executives to build their personal brands and help them achieve personal and professional success. As a father of competitive student-athletes, he is now applying the same skills he brought to those Fortune 500 employees to student-athletes. Amit's book, "The Other Playbook - Brand Lessons Every Student-Athlete Needs (But No One Teaches)" shows student-athletes how to build the best version of themselves to succeed in sports, school, and life.

Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amitchitre/

Websites: https://r3communications.pro/ | https://theotherplaybook.pro/

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Other-Playbook-Lessons-Student-Athlete-Teaches-ebook/dp/B0FMM1CDNT

About the Host:

Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.

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