A pro footballer and a self-help guru walk into a bar…
Actually, it all started with a phone call in 2022 during which Matt convinced Susan they should join forces and write a book about life after 40. Over the next two years they talked… and talked… and talked (and yes, they did walk into a bar a few times too!)
As they came to understand each other’s perspectives, what did they agree on?
Matt Elliott and Susan Pearse have teamed up to co-author a compelling new book on thriving in the second half of life.
Winning the Second Half offers a dynamic conversation between male and female perspectives, highlighting both differences and common ground while, providing practical tools for navigating this life stage – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
These special events go beyond a traditional book launch. You’ll step into an immersive wellbeing experience designed to inspire you to take charge of the second half of your life with energy, clarity and intention.
Drawing on their lived experience in elite sport, leadership and personal transformation, Matt and Susan will share practical, science-backed strategies to help you thrive physically, mentally and emotionally — no matter your age or stage of life.
What you will experience
Events will be held across Queensland and New South Wales — register your interest now to be the first to know dates and locations.
Matt Elliott is a former NRL head coach, mental performance expert and mentor with The Change Room.
Susan Pearse is a leadership strategist, mind fitness educator and best-selling author dedicated to conscious leadership and personal transformation.
Together, they’ve created a roadmap for the second half of life that blends wisdom, science and lived experience — to help others unlock their full potential.
In December 2024, Winning the Second Half Authors conducted research to explore the desires and challenges faced by men and women aged 40 and beyond.
Overview of Survey Results
588 people answered the survey conducted in December 2024. 50% were female and 49.83% were male.
Overall, 52.62% of survey respondents reported they were thriving compared to 47.38% who said they were surviving.
Around 56% of both men and women reported being where they wanted to be in their life right now. More respondents in the 63-70 age group said they are where they want to be in life right now, more than any other age group.
78.79% of women and 74.1% of men are satisfied to very satisfied with their lifestyle.
When asked what goals they hoped to achieve in the next 10 years, the top answer for men was financial stability followed by improved health. For women it was traveling to new places and then financial stability.
Both sexes reported the top 2 priorities for changing their lives as health and financial stability. The number 3 priority for men was relationships while women favoured new experiences and personal growth.
41.13% of men reported fair to very poor mental and emotional health. 35.4% of women also identified with these categories.
For a limited time only – get a signed copy of Matt and Susan’s latest book Winning the Second Half and explore the things you can do to create a life of passion, purpose and vitality.
Want to inspire your team or community with the powerful message behind Winning the Second Half?
Book Matt Elliott and Susan Pearse for your next event and give your audience an unforgettable experience of insight, energy and transformation.
Drawing on their lived experience in elite sport, leadership and personal growth, Matt and Susan deliver engaging, practical keynotes that move people to think differently — and act with purpose.
Discover what it means to win the second half of life. Our events offer a mix of inspiration, learning, and wellbeing experiences — from interactive sessions to unique gatherings that leave you energised and equipped for what’s ahead.
