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What a Lad

Presented by Betcha

What a Lad is a podcast by James Marshall who talks to some of the biggest names and best lads on the planet.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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  • 38 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 1 hr 11 min
  • English

Episodes 38

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  • S7 · E350
    Wednesday · 1 hr 12 min

    Carter Dalgety- What a Lad

    With Cup week around the corner there is no better time to be joined by one of the brightest young stars in NZ harness racing, Carter Dalgety! At just 23 years old, Carter is already making a serious name for himself in the racing world. Growing up in Canterbury with a massive love for rugby and horses, Carter has gone from a young lad chasing his dreams to competing against some of the best drivers in the world. Coming from a family with a rich history in harness racing, Carter has racing in his blood, but what's most impressive is his attitude, work ethic and passion for what he does. He's a great young Kiwi who has achieved plenty already and still has his best years ahead of him. In this episode we get into: Winning the Christchurch 1st XV rugby competition with St Andrew's College Why he delayed getting his harness racing licence The incredible story of winning on his very first drive Heading to America at just 21 and winning 12 races What it's really like driving for his dad The incredible atmosphere of racing on NZ Cup Day The shocking abuse he receives from angry punters The best horse he's ever driven Whether anyone can beat Leap To Fame His best chance for Cup Week and plenty more! Going into this episode a lot of people had told me what a lad Carter was and he certainly does not disappoint with his sense of humor and easy going nature. Whether you're a harness racing fan or just enjoy hearing from young Kiwis doing awesome things, there's plenty of great yarns in this one. If you enjoy the episode, make sure you give it a like, subscribe and share it with a mate! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E349
    October 28 · 1 hr 22 min

    Jahrome Hughes- What a Lad

    Jahrome Hughes is one of the biggest names in the NRL, a Dally M Medal winner, premiership winner with the Melbourne Storm and proud New Zealand Kiwi. His rise to becoming one of the best halfbacks in the game is an incredible story of resilience, hard work and making the most of opportunities. In this episode of What a Lad, Jahrome takes us through his journey from growing up in Wellington to reaching the very top of rugby league. It's a career that has had some incredible highs but also plenty of setbacks, tough lessons and moments where things could have gone very differently. What makes Jahrome's story so good is how open he is about the mistakes he made, the people who helped him along the way and the mindset that changed everything. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Growing up dreaming of becoming an All Black before finding his way into rugby league. - Making his NRL debut at just 18 and getting too comfortable too early. - Losing his Titans contract and going from full-time NRL player back to Queensland Cup and pouring pints. - Going through back surgery and the challenges that came with that. - Almost giving the game away before getting another opportunity with the Cowboys. - Why he initially didn't want to join the Melbourne Storm and how he ended up there. - The brutal Craig Bellamy spray after returning to preseason overweight. - Being told he wasn't good enough to play halfback for the Storm. - Winning the Dally M Medal and the emotional haka that followed. - Having his childhood idol Benji Marshall present him with his Kiwis jersey. - Revealing just how close he came to signing with the Warriors! It's always an honour having one of my favourite players can on the podcast and this episod is just that. Jahrome is such a humble, genuine lad and it's awesome to see someone who has achieved so much still be so grounded. There are plenty of laughs, some incredible stories and some great lessons in this one. Let me know what you thought of it in the comments Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E348
    October 21 · 1 hr 9 min

    Cam Howieson- What a Lad

    Cam Howieson has one of the most incredible journeys in New Zealand football. From making his first-team debut for Burnley, becoming an All White and going to the Olympics all by the age of 18, to nearly walking away from the game completely. In this episode of What a Lad, Cam opens up about the full journey. From chasing his dream in England and getting caught up in the professional football lifestyle, to losing his love for the game in Scotland and coming home to New Zealand to find it again. He also shares the challenges his family have faced raising his daughter who lives with epilepsy and has seizures every day. The reality of caring for her, the incredible support of his wife, and why turning down overseas opportunities to be there for his family was never really a question. Then came the opportunity to return to professional football with Auckland FC, and a moment you couldn’t script — scoring the winning goal in the A-League Grand Final with his wife and two daughters at the stadium. This is an incredibly honest chat about chasing your dreams, dealing with setbacks and understanding what really matters. Cam has been through plenty, but the way he speaks about his family and the perspective he brings to football is pretty special. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E347
    October 14 · 1 hr 11 min

    Caleb Tangitau- What a Lad

    Caleb Tangitau is one of the most exciting young talents in New Zealand rugby. Known for his incredible speed, footwork and ability to score tries from anywhere, he has become one of the most dangerous attacking players in Super Rugby with the Highlanders. In this episode of What a Lad, Caleb opens up about the journey behind the highlights. He shares the highs, the setbacks and the people who have helped shape him along the way, giving an honest insight into life as a professional rugby player chasing his dream. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - How his dad inspired his dream of playing Sevens - Making the New Zealand Sevens team as a teenager and the emotional moment he found out - Struggling with the transition from Sevens to fifteens at the Blues - Why he initially wanted to stay at the Blues rather than join the Highlanders - The surprise phone call from Israel Dagg that completely changed his career - The brutal Highlanders preseason that helped transform him as a player - His breakout season and feeling closer to his All Blacks dream - The devastating Achilles injury and the mental challenges that followed - What the injury has taught him about appreciating every opportunity in rugby One thing you’ll take from this episode is that Caleb is an absolute lad. His journey is a great reminder of how quickly things can change in professional sport, from the highs of living out your childhood dreams to the setbacks that test you the most. There’s plenty still to come from this man, and I’m backing it won't be long him before he achieves that All Blacks dream. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E346
    October 7 · 1 hr 19 min

    Lachlan Brook- What a Lad

    Lachie Brook’s journey to becoming an Auckland FC champion has been anything but straightforward. From making his professional debut at just 16 in the A-League, to playing around the world in England and America, his career has included some incredible highs and some seriously tough lows. In this episode of What a Lad, Lachie opens up about losing his love for football in England, finding it again back in Australia, and then reaching his lowest point mentally while playing in America. He also shares the story behind joining Auckland FC, why he initially wasn’t excited about the move, and how it turned into one of the best chapters of his career — culminating in an unforgettable first season and finally experiencing what it feels like to win. Some parts that stood out for me were… What made him so good at such a young age How quickly things can change in Football How important it is to be enjoying yourself off the field to thrive on it. He shares how tough he found it mentally while in America How algorithms are being used to recruit footballers What he's loved about the Auckland FC environment Winning with Auckland FC and experiencing that championship feeling As you'll hear Lachie is a great lad, honest, reflective and has had an incredible journey for such a young man. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E344
    September 23 · 1 hr 28 min

    Daniel Lienert-Brown- What a Lad

    Daniel Lienert-Brown is one of the great servants of New Zealand rugby. With 140 games for the Highlanders, 100 for Canterbury, a Super Rugby title and four NPC titles, DLB has built an incredible career through consistency, resilience and a genuine love for the game. In this episode of What a Lad, DLB opens up about the full journey — from growing up in Christchurch dreaming of one day playing for Canterbury or the Crusaders, to getting his first taste of professional rugby, receiving the call from Jamie Joseph to join the Highlanders and becoming part of their historic 2015 Super Rugby title. What stands out most is just how grateful he is for every opportunity rugby has given him. He talks about those early “pinch yourself” moments, becoming the Highlanders’ most capped forward and reaching 100 games for Canterbury. DLB also opens up about the tougher side of the journey. He reflects on a time when being “the rugby player” became his identity, how that affected his life away from the game, hitting rock bottom in 2021 and how faith, family and perspective helped completely change the way he sees himself today. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… Growing up watching Canterbury and the Crusaders and dreaming of one day being there The satisfaction he got from making his dad proud Going from working at Pak n Save to getting his first Crusaders opportunity What made the 2015 Highlanders side special Why Nasi Manu is the best player he played with The role faith now plays in his life Why gratitude has become such a big part of the way he approaches rugby and life DLB is a special man and there is no man who his more grateful for his career then this man, I know you'll enjoy this one! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E343
    September 16 · 1 hr 26 min

    Sean Maitland- What a Lad

    I know everyone will remember Sean Maitlands beautiful stride as he galloped down the field, what an athlete and what a journey he has had! From growing up in Tokoroa, to playing for the British and Irish Lions and everything in between! In this episode of What a Lad, Sean opens up about his career for the first time on a podcast and he did not disappoint, some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Growing up in Tokoroa alongside Quade Cooper and Isaac John - Playing for Waikato at just 17 while still at school - Walking into a Crusaders changing room full of his childhood idols - His experience during the devastating 2011 Christchurch earthquake - Missing out on the All Blacks and making the decision to head overseas - How quickly everything happened after joining Glasgow and Scotland - Being selected for the British & Irish Lions after only a handful of Tests - The incredible culture and team trips behind Saracens' success - Knowing when it was finally time to call time on his career And heaps more! As you'll hear, Sean is an absolute lad who has experienced just about everything the game has to offer, he's played with almost every rugby legend alive and there are some incredible stories in this one. Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E342
    September 14 · 49 min

    The Greatest Rivalry Test 4 Review Ft Searley

    Well that's the Greatest Rivalry tour all done and dusted and it was a tour that lived up to the hype. This tour had high expectations but after producing 4 incredible tests full with intensity, quality rugby and of course some controversy, everything about this series was a success. South Africa proved why they are the number 1 side in the world claiming the series 3–1, so where does that leave the All Blacks heading towards the Rugby World Cup? For this episode I'm joined by Searley as we cover: How the Springboks won the final Test What areas of the game cost the All Blacks in this one We look at the controversial refereeing decisions that shaped the game Why South Africa’s cohesion is such a major advantage The All Blacks who raised their stocks during the tour The positions still up for grabs ahead of the World Cup The players who are to return to the All Blacks and where they fit South Africa’s best performers and stock risers, including Malcolm Marx and Morné van den Berg And heaps more South Africa have confirmed themselves as the best team in the world — but after using 49 players on tour, there are still plenty of reasons for New Zealand fans to feel optimistic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E341
    September 10 · 45 min

    The Greatest Rivalry Preview TEST 4 Ft Searley

    The final Test of the Greatest Rivalry Tour is here, with the All Blacks and Springboks heading to Baltimore for one last showdown! South Africa lead the series 2-1 after two huge wins at home, but what's install for this one!? Searley is back to break down everything ahead of the final Test, including Richie Mo’unga’s return to the No.10 jersey, Ethan Blackadder’s massive opportunity, the battle at scrum time and whether the All Blacks can find a way to nullify the Springboks’ biggest strengths. We also look at South Africa naming another incredibly strong side, what playing in Baltimore could mean for the game, the importance of the bench, and why this could almost feel like a preview of a potential World Cup quarter-final. Can the All Blacks level the series in Baltimore, or will the Springboks finish the tour with three straight wins? Let me know your prediction in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E340
    September 7 · 38 min

    The Greatest Rivalry Test 3 Review Ft Bryn Hall

    The All Blacks vs Springboks Greatest Rivalry Tour continues to deliver, with another massive Test match that had everything! Bryn Hall joins me to break down the third Test, where the All Blacks produced some outstanding rugby early before the Springboks once again showed why they’re the best in the world, using their set-piece in particular their scrum to take control of the match. We also dive into Jordie Barrett’s incredible form, the impact of losing Ardie Savea, the controversial yellow card, South Africa’s scrum dominance, Jessie Kriels form and Man of the Match Ethan Hooker. We also look ahead to the final Test in Baltimore. Will Richie Mo’unga get his opportunity? How will the All Blacks replace their injured stars? And can New Zealand level the series 2-2, or will the Springboks finish it off 3-1? Let me know what stood out for you in this test match in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E339
    September 3 · 42 min

    The Greatest Rivalry Preview TEST 3 Ft Bryn Hall

    The Greatest Rivalry Tour is all square at 1-1 and Test Three is set to be massive! Bryn Hall joins me to break down where the All Blacks can improve, the Springboks’ set-piece dominance, the kicking battle, scrum tactics and the key selections ahead of another huge Test in South Africa. We also look at Cheslin Kolbe’s move to fullback, Cam Roigard’s influence, Asafa Aumua getting his opportunity to start and finish with our score and man of the match predictions. Who do you think is going to win this one? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E338
    September 2 · 59 min

    Dr Kerry Spackman- What a Lad

    Dr Kerry Spackman has spent decades studying one fascinating question — what separates the very best from everyone else? As a cognitive neuroscientist and high-performance consultant, Kerry has worked with Formula One legends, Olympians, key All Blacks and some of the world's highest performers, helping them understand how the brain works and how to perform when it matters most. In this episode of What a Lad, Kerry shares some incredible insights from his career. From working with three-time Formula One World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart and discovering his relentless attention to detail, to seeing firsthand the work ethic and mindset required to become a world champion. Kerry also breaks down the science behind elite performance — why athletes choke under pressure, how the best performers see things others don't, why being the best youngster doesn't guarantee future success, and how our emotions and experiences can shape the way we think and behave. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… Working with Sir Jackie Stewart and discovering what made him so different The incredible work ethic Kerry has witnessed from world champions Why some Wimbledon champions can predict where a serve is going before the ball is even hit Why thinking too much under pressure can actually make you perform worse Why being the best athlete at 16 doesn't mean you'll become the best as an adult The mentality behind Hamish Bond and Eric Murray's incredible success Why there are no shortcuts when it comes to becoming world-class How confidence can be built just like a muscle How emotional experiences from our past can continue to influence us years later Why Kerry believes we have a far greater ability to change ourselves than we realise This is one of those episodes that will make you think differently about performance, confidence and what we're actually capable of. Whether you're an athlete, coach, business owner or simply someone wanting to improve, there's plenty of gold in this one. If you enjoy hearing how some of the world's best think and what we can learn from them, you'll love this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E337
    August 26 · 42 min

    The Greatest Rivalry Test 2 Preview Ft Jeff McTainsh

    Episode 3 of The What a Lad Greatest Rivalry series, reviewing the All Blacks’ thrilling midweek clash against the Lions and previewing a massive second Test against the Springboks in Cape Town! For this episode, I’m joined by the great Jeff McTainsh, who has been calling the action throughout the tour and joins me directly from South Africa to share his insight into the games and the incredible atmosphere surrounding this rivalry. We break down how the All Blacks recovered from a 14-0 deficit against the Lions, including Ethan Blackadder’s enormous performance, Timoci Tavatavanawai’s impact, Emoni Narawa’s footwork and Rieko Ioane looking back to his explosive best. We also discuss the challenges of preparing a midweek All Blacks side, which players have pushed their case for Test selection and the big decisions facing Dave Rennie ahead of Cape Town. Then we preview Test 2, looking at the aerial battle, the importance of winning collisions and how the All Blacks can disrupt the Springboks’ structured game. The All Blacks are 1-0 up, but with Handre Pollard and Siya Kolisi returning to the Springboks can they inspire a win to keep their series hopes alive, Cape Town is set up to be an absolute classic! Can the All Blacks go 2-0 up, or will the Springboks fight their way back into the series? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E336
    August 23 · 43 min

    The Greatest Rivalry Test 1 Review Ft Searley

    Episode 2 of The What a Lad Greatest Rivalry series, reviewing an incredible opening Test between the All Blacks and Springboks at Ellis Park! For this episode, I’m joined again by the great Searley from Searley Talks Sport as we break down how the All Blacks managed to come away with a huge 33-16 win, despite the Springboks dominating large parts of the first half. We look at the massive moments that swung the Test, including the All Blacks bench front row completely changing the scrum battle, Fabian Holland’s charge down, Jordie Barrett’s incredible defensive effort, Will Jordan’s Man of the Match performance and Cam Roigard’s game management under pressure. We also discuss just how impressive Cheslin Kolbe and Jasper Wiese were for the Springboks, the refereeing and TMO decisions, Rassie Erasmus’ reaction to the loss and what both sides will need to change heading into Test 2. The All Blacks have drawn first blood, but with the Springboks now needing to win the remaining three Tests to take the series, this Greatest Rivalry Tour has been set up perfectly! Can the All Blacks go 2-0 up in Cape Town, or will the Springboks bounce back? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E335
    August 21 · 54 min

    The Greatest Rivalry Test 1 Preview Ft Tamati Ellision & Searley

    Episode 1 of The What a Lad Greatest Rivalry preview show where we preview all you need to know about the test between the All Blacks and the Springboks this weekend! For this episode we get an insight from inside the All Black camp with All Black assistant coach Tamati Ellison as well as the usual insight from the great Searley from Searley talks sport as we look back on the tour so far as well as preview the first Test! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E334
    August 19 · 1 hr 42 min

    Uilisi Halaholo- What a Lad

    Uilisi Halaholo has a story so good it was one of the reasons I started this podcast. A naturally gifted player from a young age, who was heading down the wrong path to make the most of his talent. Caught up in the wrong lifestyle, drinking and getting into trouble on a regular basis. A turning point came when he became a young father ultimately forced him to change direction. He put down the bottle, transformed himself physically and decided to give rugby a genuine crack. That decision started a journey that would take him from fighting for an opportunity with the Southland Stags, to the Hurricanes, winning a Super Rugby title, moving across the world to Cardiff and eventually representing Wales. But reaching the top didn't mean the challenges stopped. Willis opens up about the criticism he received for representing Wales, devastating injuries, missing the opportunity to play against the All Blacks, losing a close family member, financial uncertainty and one of the darkest periods of his career. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… What his life as a teenager was like! Why having his daughter changed his mindset. Why the move to Southland was the best thing for him Why he chose a contract with the Hurricanes over other offers How he ended up on a Wider Squad contract in 2016 the year he started in the final! The decision to move to Cardiff The brutal run of injuries and juggling being a father to 5 girls How all of those highs and lows shaped the person he is today As you’ll hear Uilisi is a lad! His story is an incredible example of how much can change when you decide to take control of your life. Plenty of laughs in this one, but also some incredibly raw and powerful moments. As always, if you enjoy the episode please give it a like, subscribe to the channel and share it with a mate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E333
    August 12 · 1 hr 6 min

    Daniel Kirkpatrick- What a Lad

    Dan Kirkpatrick was an age grade superstar who was starting Super Rugby with the Hurricanes at just 20 years old. He’s a guy I always remember as being just a genuine good guy and he’s had a hell of a journey both on and off the field In this episode of What a Lad, Dan opens up about becoming a father at just 19 and the challenges of balancing that with professional rugby, why he decided to leave New Zealand at 23 despite still having an All Blacks dream, and the serious injuries that eventually contributed to the end of his career. Some parts that stood out for me were… - What growing up looked like for him to be school boy star - Becoming a dad at 19 while trying to establish himself in professional rugby - what it was like at the Hurricanes as a young 10 - More about his decision to leave for France - How he felt walking away from his All Blacks dream - Winning the Top 14 with Castres as massive underdogs - The concussion and neck injury that impacted the back end of his career - His transition out of rugby and into business - Building @hiit_crew_auckland and a new community after rugby. And heaps more! Dan’s another great example of how everyone’s journey is different and how important it is to enjoy the path you take and tackle whatever challenges come at you with a positive mindset. I really enjoyed this one and I’m sure you will too! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E332
    August 5 · 1 hr 18 min

    Kurt Eklund - What a Lad

    Kurt Eklund has one of the most unique journeys in New Zealand rugby. A Super Rugby champion, Māori All Blacks captain and one of the most respected hookers in the country, Kurt's path to the top was anything but conventional. He spent eight years working as a builder, and admits he never thought professional rugby was a realistic goal. After only starting two games for Auckland across four seasons, a devastating knee injury left him ready to walk away from rugby altogether. But after losing his mum to breast cancer, everything changed. Determined to make her proud, Kurt found a new purpose, reignited his love for the game, and eventually made his Super Rugby debut for the Blues at the age of 28. Some other parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Why he never believed a professional rugby career was possible - How losing his mum completely changed his outlook on rugby and life - The story behind making and captaining the Māori All Blacks - Winning Super Rugby with the Blues after years of grinding away - Why he's heading to Japan and the next chapter for his young family - His passion for fishing, protecting New Zealand's oceans and life beyond rugby - Plenty more hilarious stories Kurt is one of the most genuine people you'll come across. Humble, funny and incredibly self-aware, his story is a reminder that success doesn't always come early and that everyone's journey looks different. He truely is one of the great lads in NZ rugby! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  • S7 · E331
    July 29 · 1 hr 34 min

    Antonio Shalfoon- What a Lad

    Antonio Shalfoon is someone who is a very different person off the field than he may seem on it. Known as a bit of a grub on the field, off the field he is one of the greats and his journey to professional rugby is as inspiring as any. To start he wasn't offered his first full Super Rugby contract until the age of 26 after years of grinding away in club rugby, moving provinces to chase opportunities, and overcoming setbacks that would have made most people give up. Add to that Antonio opens up about the frightening story of being diagnosed with myocarditis, where he was told he may never play the game again. Some other parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Hearing about the time he had a fight with a kids dad while playing Cricket - Why he got punched in the head in his first Waikato training - The scary heart condition that nearly ended his rugby career - His pathway into the Crusaders and what kept him going - His selection into the Maori All Blacks and what that mean for him - Why he's signed in Japan for next season And plenty more great yarns. Antonio is exactly the type of person you want around a rugby team. He's funny, authentic, incredibly resilient and proof that there is no single pathway to achieving your goals. This was an awesome conversation and one I know you'll enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Showing 1–20 of 38 episodes