WHAT DOES AMBITION REALLY LOOK LIKE?

In this episode of the 4TG Podcast, Kylie Lynch sits down with Dr. Bridie O'Donnell, former professional cyclist, medical doctor, world record holder, and one of Australia's leading advocates for women in sport.

Bridie's journey has never followed a traditional path. She left a career in surgery to race professionally in Europe in her 30s, experienced the challenging early years of women's professional cycling, and later became the inaugural Head of the Victorian Office for Women in Sport and Recreation.

This conversation explores far more than elite performance.

Bridie shares how her definition of ambition has changed over time, why perfectionism often holds athletes back, and what it really means to pursue excellence without losing yourself in the process.

Together, Kylie and Bridie also discuss the structural barriers that continue to affect women in sport, the importance of long-term investment, and why creating lasting change depends on people who are willing to become "upstanders" by speaking up when something isn't right.

Whether you're an athlete, coach, leader, parent, or simply passionate about creating better opportunities for women and girls, this episode is filled with practical insights and honest reflections that extend well beyond sport.

IN THIS EPISODE

✔ Leaving medicine to become a professional cyclist in Italy

✔ Redefining ambition beyond medals and results

✔ Why perfectionism can limit performance and enjoyment

✔ The reality of women's professional cycling before full-time support

✔ Building confidence through consistency instead of overtraining

✔ Creating lasting gender equality through better leadership and investment

✔ Why being an "upstander" matters in sport and everyday life

✔ Advice for young women chasing ambitious goals

ABOUT THE GUEST – DR. BRIDIE O'DONNELL

Dr. Bridie O'Donnell is a medical doctor, former professional cyclist, UCI Hour Record holder, broadcaster, author, and one of Australia's leading advocates for women in sport. She previously served as the inaugural Head of the Victorian Office for Women in Sport and Recreation, helping shape policies that improve participation, leadership, and equality across Australian sport.

Connect with Bridie on Instagram: @bridie_od

Support the show

ABOUT THE HOST

Kylie Lynch is the Founder and Host of 4TG (For The Girls), a podcast and platform on a mission to keep more girls and women in sport.

A VFLW athlete, Australian representative in Polocrosse, coach, mentor and media/communications professional, Kylie has spent her career at the intersection of sport, media and community impact. Through 4TG, she shares the stories, lessons and experiences of elite athletes, coaches and industry leaders to help girls and women build confidence, navigate challenges and stay involved in sport for longer. Because sport doesn't just build athletes. It builds confidence, resilience, leadership, connection and opportunities that positively impact girls and women both on and off the field.

Connect with Kylie:

• Instagram: @kylie__lynch
• LinkedIn: Kylie Lynch
• Website: www.4tg.com.au
• Email: kylie@4tg.com.au

JOIN THE 4TG COMMUNITY

4TG exists to help keep more girls and women in sport.

Through powerful conversations with athletes, coaches, experts and industry leaders, we're building a community where girls and women feel inspired, supported and empowered to stay in the game.

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