Ellie Cole is one of Australia’s most decorated Paralympians — but this conversation isn’t about medals.

It’s about identity. Perspective. Family. Inclusion. And what resilience really means when life doesn’t unfold the way you expected.

Diagnosed with cancer at just three years old, Ellie underwent a leg amputation before she even formed memories of her early childhood. What followed was not just survival — but an extraordinary sporting career spanning four Paralympic Games and 17 medals, including six gold.

But behind the podium moments is a deeply human story.

In this episode, Ellie opens up about growing up with difference, navigating the emotional realities of childhood illness, and the quiet strength of her family during that time. We talk about the evolution of prosthetics and what it actually feels like to live as an amputee in a world still learning what inclusion truly means.

We also explore:

• The psychology of competition and shifting definitions of success

• Paralympic team dynamics and classification complexities

• Body image, identity and visibility

• Navigating sexuality and family acceptance

• Motherhood and perspective

• The mindset shifts that moved her from surviving to thriving

This episode will stay with you like it did with me. 

To follow Ellie click here: https://www.instagram.com/elliecoleswim/

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Timecodes:

02:38 Childhood Dreams and the Love for Swimming
04:15 The Reality of Competitive Sports
06:57 Shifting Perspectives on Success
08:50 The Journey Through Childhood Cancer
10:36 The Impact of Amputation on Life
12:53 Parental Perspectives on Childhood Illness
15:52 The Importance of Support Networks
18:58 Advancements in Prosthetics Technology
24:57 The Experience of Wearing a Prosthetic
29:21 Reflections on Life as an Amputee
30:26 Understanding Paralympic Team Selection
31:47 Multi-Class Events and Team Dynamics
33:42 Classification Controversies in Paralympic Sports
36:48 Personal Journey and Family Dynamics
44:52 Navigating Sexuality and Family Acceptance
50:01 Optimism and Advocacy for Inclusion
54:08 Challenging Perspectives Through Experience
56:05 Lessons on Change and Responsibility