Leadership insights from the man who took the West Coast Eagles to 5 Grand Finals and 4 Premierships

In this episode of Hearts & Mines, David sits down with Trevor Nisbett, former CEO of The West Coast Eagles and leading businessman. Over more than two decades at the helm, Trevor transformed the Eagles from a financially troubled interstate newcomer into one of the AFL's most commercially successful clubs, competing in five grand finals and winning four premierships. Far more than a football story, this conversation is a masterclass in leadership, culture, resilience and people. Trevor reflects candidly on navigating the club's darkest chapter, the qualities that define great leaders, what it really takes to build a winning culture, and the wisdom he'd pass on to his 25-year-old self. Whether you work in sport, mining, or any people-driven organisation, the lessons here are universal.

David Beilby 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbeilby/

Alana Bray-White 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/alana-bray-white-8b4478219/

ivy & gecko  🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/ivy-gecko

Timecodes:

(00:00) Opening highlights on leadership, mistakes and resilience

(00:45) Welcome introducing Trevor Nisbett, CEO of the West Coast Eagles

(02:00) Trevor's career in review from WAFL to four AFL premierships

(03:00) Growing up in Bunbury a humble beginning and the role of discipline

(04:45) Early influences football coaches and the lessons of team sport

(07:00) Something most people don't know a passion for horse racing

(08:00) Career highs and lows from 14 staff and $14M in debt to 100,000 members