ABOUT US
We’re Jo Brigden-Jones and Holly Lincoln-Smith, two Olympians with over 35 years combined competing at the highest level of sport. We’ve stood on podiums, faced defeat, come back stronger, and discovered that the mindset needed to succeed in elite sport is the same mindset that drives success in life.
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That’s why we created Beyond the Finish Line, to share the lessons we learned not just from our wins, but from the challenges that shaped us. Through keynotes, workshops, and mentoring, we help individuals, teams, and organisations build the mental tools to thrive under pressure, lead with purpose, and unlock their full potential.
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This isn’t about sport. It’s about mindset. It’s about resilience, growth, and becoming better 1% at a time.
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Because real success doesn’t stop at the finish line.
It starts there.
HOLLY LINCOLN-SMITH
Holly Lincoln-Smith is a dual Olympian and Olympic bronze medalist in water polo, proudly representing Australia at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games. Beyond the Olympics, she’s competed at multiple World Championships and a World Cup, cementing her status as one of Australia’s elite athletes.
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Throughout her career, Holly has overcome significant injuries, demonstrating incredible resilience and determination to return stronger each time. A qualified teacher and devoted mother of two, her journey goes far beyond sport. She’s also a survivor, overcoming cancer and personal family tragedy with courage and strength that inspire everyone around her.
Holly’s story is one of grit, grace, and mindset under pressure, qualities she now shares with others through mentoring, workshops, and keynotes. She believes true success comes from how we rise after life’s toughest challenges.
JO BRIGDEN-JONES
Jo Brigden-Jones is a dual Olympian sprint kayaker who proudly represented Australia at the London 2012 and Tokyo 2020 Games. For 18 consecutive years from 2004 to 2021 Jo competed internationally for Australia, including racing at 8 World Championships. Jo has won multiple World Championship and World Cup medals and becoming a 42-time Australian national champion.
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Her journey was defined by resilience, overcoming numerous injuries and setbacks, including non-selection for two Olympic teams to continually push forward and perform at her best on the world stage.
Beyond the water, Jo serves her community as an intensive care paramedic, station manager, and registered nurse, balancing the demands of elite sport with a deep commitment to healthcare. She’s also the creative force behind a successful cake decorating business, blending discipline and artistry in everything she does.
Jo’s story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and passion, qualities she now shares through career, mentoring, and speaking to inspire others to overcome obstacles and chase excellence in all areas of life.
