S3E35: When the Fun Stops, Stop! with Abi Okell
Abi Okell brings a wealth of experience from her work with GB Snowsport, British Gymnastics, and GB Taekwondo. From the NHS to the world stage at the Paralympic and Olympic Games, Abi has dedicated her career to empowering athletes through tailored rehabilitation and health initiatives.
Abi’s passion lies in creating safe spaces to address the unique challenges female athletes face—breaking taboos, fostering open conversations, and ensuring that support staff are as respected as coaches in the high-performance world. With expertise in musculoskeletal injuries, female health, and athlete well-being, Abi brings an inspiring perspective on what it means to truly support performance at every level.
And this is why I'm excited to bring you this episode. Abi shares her journey, insights, and the lessons she’s learned about balancing professionalism, advocacy, and personal growth in the demanding world of elite sport.
Talking Points:
- Breaking taboos and creating safe spaces for female athletes.
- Supporting male allies in fostering understanding without blame.
- Managing 24/7 availability and setting boundaries in high-pressure roles.
- Championing respect for support staff alongside coaches.
- Transitioning from NHS to elite winter sports and its impact on Abi’s career.
- Balancing personal growth, soft skills, and technical expertise.
- Cultivating belonging and fun as keys to peak performance.
- Turning self-pressure into growth and managing expectations.
