BYB Podcast Ep 7: Process Over Podium: Ian Robertson on Building a Life of Discipline

Explore what it really means to commit to the process

In this week’s episode of Beyond Your Best, I sit down with Ian Robertson—wealth manager, lifelong learner, Oxford PhD, Masters swimmer, and founder of Oxprox—to explore what it really means to commit to the process. Ian’s path is anything but linear: from early mornings in the pool to multiple degrees (that, as he jokes, “don’t spell anything”), to responsible investing and building a social venture focused on proxy voting transparency. His story is a powerful reminder that excellence isn’t about titles or timing—it’s about quietly, consistently doing the work.

We talk about how swimming shaped his identity and mindset, especially the discipline of showing up day after day without the promise of a podium finish. Ian shares how that “bottom of the top group” experience taught him the value of improvement over perfection and process over outcome. That same mindset carried him through an eight-year, part-time PhD at Oxford, the launch of Oxprox, and the ongoing challenge of balancing a demanding career, family, sport, and impact-driven work.

We also dig into responsible investing, why proxy voting matters more than most people realize, and how coaching and strong teams help high performers stay focused on what truly matters. If you’re someone who’s juggling a lot, wondering how to stay aligned with your values while pursuing ambitious goals, this conversation will resonate.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • Why being good (not “the best”) can actually be a long-term advantage

  • How elite swimming taught Ian to love the process, not just the results

  • What responsible investing and proxy voting really are—and why they matter

  • How Oxprox aims to bring transparency and accountability to global capital markets

  • The role of coaching in helping leaders stay focused, grounded, and accountable

  • Practical thoughts on trade-offs: choosing careers, studies, and paths that keep your options open

  • How strong relationships and consistent communication build trust—especially when markets get bumpy

If this episode speaks to you, forward it to someone who’s quietly working their own long game.


 

 New Episode
Time on the Ball: Building High-Performing Teams

In this episode of Beyond Your Best, Carolyn sits down with Ian Robertson—wealth manager, Oxford PhD, Masters swimmer, and founder of Oxprox—to explore how discipline, curiosity, and consistencyshape a meaningful life. 🏊‍♂️📚 From early mornings in the pool to an eight-year PhD to building a transparency-focused social venture, Ian shares how focusing on the process over the podium has guided every chapter of his journey. He breaks down the real impact of responsible investing, the power of strong teams, and why coaching helps even top performers stay aligned with what matters. 💡🌱 If you’re navigating big goals, big trade-offs, or a busy life, this conversation is packed with grounded wisdom and quiet drive. 🚀

🎧 Tune in for insights that will help you strengthen your business and get ready to go Beyond Your Best.

Visit the Website

LISTEN TO EPISODE 04 NOW!