With the Winter Paralympics kicking off on March 6, there’s no better time to reflect on the mindset, resilience and perspective behind elite performance.

In this episode of The Kismet Podcast, we sit down with Australian Paralympian and World Champion Don Elgin for a conversation that goes far beyond medals.

From growing up in rural Australia with a disability, to standing on the Paralympic podium with a gold medal around his neck, Don shares the full arc — including the moments most people never see. The missed teams. The doubt. The day he said, “I quit.” And the powerful truth that if we quit, those moments don’t exist.

But this episode isn’t just about sport.

It’s about identity beyond achievement.
It’s about separating who you are from what you do.
It’s about having the courage to reset — sometimes literally at the door.

Don shares his now-famous “door reset” technique: a simple but powerful mindset shift that allows him to leave frustration behind and show up fully in the next moment. It’s a philosophy that has shaped not only his athletic career, but his family life, leadership, and ongoing involvement in the disability community.

He speaks candidly about:

• The importance of purpose and goals at every stage of life
• Why “luck” is created through repetition and effort
• The role of family in grounding identity
• Using your voice so others know they’re not alone

As the world turns its attention to the Paralympic stage once again, Don’s story is a reminder that behind every athlete is a human story — one built on resilience, support, setbacks, and the decision to keep going.

And perhaps most importantly, it’s a reminder that high performance isn’t about being “up” all the time. It’s about learning how to reset, recommit, and step forward again.

🎧 Listen to the full episode of The Kismet Podcast

You can also follow along and connect with us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kismethealthy/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kismethealthcare/

Because at Kismet, we believe great organisations are built by great people - and stories like Don’s remind us what’s possible when purpose and persistence align.