"I Was Told I'd Never Play Again" - Jackson Hastings on His Quest To Become A Better Man, Mental Health Struggles & His NRL Revival

Author: Dylan Mullan
Published: Mon 12 Aug 2024
Episode Link: https://shows.acast.com/life-money-love/episodes/i-was-told-id-never-play-again-jackson-hastings-on-his-quest

In this episode, I sat down with Jackson Hastings, an NRL star who has seen it all – from the highest highs to the lowest lows. Jackson isn't just any rugby league player; he's someone who went from being written off by the league to becoming one of the most talked-about names in the game.

With over 100 NRL games and an incredible stint in the Super League, where he won the prestigious Man of Steel award and saved a club from "certain relegation" not once but twice, Jackson's journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

But Jackson's story isn't just about what happens on the field. In this raw and honest conversation, he opens up about the challenges he's faced off the field, including his battles with mental health, ADHD, and the pressures of living up to expectations.

In this episode:

Jackson’s Redemption Journey: How Jackson went from being an NRL outcast to winning the prestigious Man of Steel award in the Super League.
Mental Health Battles: Jackson opens up about his struggles with ADHD, depression, and anxiety, and how he learned to manage these challenges.
Relationship Challenges: Why Jackson has struggled to build relationships or even care whether he has them or not, and how that's a product of his own protection mechanisms.
The Super League Decision: The life-changing moment Jackson decided to move to the UK, saving his career and discovering a new sense of purpose.
Playing for Livelihoods: What it was like for Jackson to play in high-stakes games where his teammates’ futures were on the line.
Personal Growth: Jacksons everlasting transformation from a young, hot-headed player to a mature leader on and off the field and how he's trying to be a better leader.
Dealing with Media Pressure: Jackson shares how he learned to cope with the constant media scrutiny and stay focused on his goals.
Lessons in Resilience: The pivotal moments that taught Jackson the value of mental resilience and never giving up, even when the odds were against him.
Turning Struggles into Strengths: How Jackson turned his personal challenges into strengths that now drive his success both in sports and in life.