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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20 episodes
Updated Wednesday

Episodes20

Newest first

Wednesday · 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.
July 22 · 1 hr 7 min
Jeremy Eparaima - Change is Possible
Jeremy's story is one of the most powerful we've ever shared on What a Lad. Growing up in an abusive household, Jeremy experienced years of physical violence. Carrying that trauma into adulthood, he eventually became the very person he never wanted to be, repeating the cycle of violence he had witnessed as a child. In this incredibly honest conversation, Jeremy opens up about the darkest moments of his life, the roleplay that completely changed his perspective, and the counsellor who helped him confront his past for the first time. Today, he dedicates his life to helping others break the same cycle, working with men, families, organisations, and New Zealand Police to create lasting change. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Growing up surrounded by physical abuse and violence. - His experience of sexual abuse at boarding school. - How childhood trauma shaped his behaviour as an adult. - The moment he realised he had become everything he hated. - The roleplay exercise that changed his life forever. - How he turned his lived experience into helping thousands of others across New Zealand. - His advice for families supporting someone struggling with anger and violence. This is one of the most courageous and important conversations we've ever had on the podcast. Jeremy's willingness to share both the harm he experienced and the harm he caused takes an incredible amount of honesty, and I have no doubt his story will help people better understand trauma, accountability, and the fact that real change is possible. If this episode resonates with you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 15 · 1 hr 1 min
Daniel Hobbs- Change is Possible
Daniel Hobbs may not be a household name in New Zealand sport, but his story is one of the most powerful we've ever shared on What a Lad. Known throughout Tasman rugby as a respected strength and conditioning coach, Daniel opens up about the horrific abuse he endured growing up at the hands of his stepfather. From living in constant fear, to enduring years of physical and emotional abuse, to the heartbreaking moment he nearly took his own life at just nine years old, this is a story of incredible resilience. Daniel shares how he overcame the lasting effects of childhood abuse, the PTSD that still impacts him today, and why he made a conscious decision to become the kind of man and father he never had Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Growing up in a household filled with fear, violence and control. - The unimaginable abuse he, his mum and sister endured for years. - The moment he nearly took his own life at just nine years old. - The long-term effects of PTSD and childhood trauma. - Discovering the truth about his biological father later in life. - Why he's most proud of breaking the cycle of abuse. - His advice for anyone currently going through a difficult time. This is one of the bravest conversations we've ever had on the podcast. Daniel's willingness to share his story is an incredible act of courage, and I have no doubt it will help people who are facing similar struggles or know someone who i Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 8 · 1 hr 7 min
Lukhan Salakaia-Loto - What a Lad
Lukhan Salakaia-Loto has one of the most remarkable stories in Australian rugby. He didn't even start playing rugby union until Year 12, yet just a few years later he was making his Super Rugby debut before earning his first Wallabies cap against the Springboks. In this episode of What a Lad, Lukhan opens up about the journey that shaped him. From missing representative teams as a teenager and using rejection as motivation, to becoming one of Australia's most respected forwards, playing for the Reds, Northampton Saints, the Rebels, the Barbarians and the Wallabies. He also shares his thoughts on missing this year's Wallabies squad despite making the Super Rugby Team of the Year, why he's at peace with the decision, and how becoming a father has completely changed his perspective on rugby and life. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Starting rugby union in Year 12 after growing up playing rugby league - Missing representative teams and the conversation with his dad that changed his mindset forever - Earning his first Wallabies cap only a year after his Super Rugby debut - The influence Brad Thorn had on his career and development - His experiences playing for Northampton Saints, the Rebels, the Barbarians and against the British & Irish Lions - Why family now comes before rugby and what he hopes his kids remember about him Lukhan is one of the genuine good guys in rugby. Honest, humble and incredibly resilient, this conversation gives a great insight into the mindset behind one of Australia's best forwards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 1 · 1 hr 15 min
Ben Volavola- What a Lad
Ben Volavola has one of the most unique careers in world rugby. Across a 13-year professional journey, he's played for the Waratahs, Crusaders, North Harbour, Canterbury, Rebels, Racing 92, Bordeaux, Perpignan, Agen, Leicester Tigers, Queensland Reds and now returns home to join the Fijian Drua. A two-time Rugby World Cup representative and one of Fiji's most experienced first fives, Ben has experienced the highs of winning Super Rugby and the lows of missing a Rugby World Cup squad. Throughout it all, he's built a reputation as one of rugby's ultimate professionals and a respected teammate wherever he's played. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Why rugby was the only plan he ever had growing up - The decision to represent Fiji after coming through the Australian pathway - What he learned from the Crusaders culture and why the best cultures win championships - The heartbreak of missing Fiji's 2023 Rugby World Cup squad and how he found motivation again - Playing alongside stars like Israel Folau & Richie Mo'unga - Why he's returning home to join the Fijian Drua and help build the future of Fijian rugby - The lessons he's taken from playing professionally across Australia, New Zealand, France and England Ben has experienced almost every corner of professional rugby, but what stood out most was his humility, gratitude and perspective. This is a fascinating conversation about resilience, culture, leadership and what it really takes to build a long career in professional sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 24 · 58 min
Super Rugby Review + All Black naming reaction
The 2026 Super Rugby season is officially done and what a finish it was. The Hurricanes capped off a remarkable campaign with a dominant 60-5 victory in the final, producing one of the most complete performances we've seen in Super Rugby history. In this episode, we break down the final, review some of our preseason predictions, discuss the standout performers from the year and look at what made the Hurricanes such a dominant force throughout the competition. We also dive into Dave Rennie's first All Blacks squad, discussing the bolters, unlucky omissions, selection surprises and what the squad tells us about how the All Blacks will look to play moving forward. Some of the topics discussed include... - We breakdown what we thought were the keys to the Hurricanes success - The players who stood out throughout the season - Who had the best predictions from the preseason epiosde - The biggest talking points from Dave Rennie's first All Blacks squad - Which players were unlucky to miss selection - Who could become the All Blacks' best player in 2026 - Predictions for the upcoming test season and South African tour And heaps more With the Super Rugby season wrapped up and a massive international season ahead, this was a great chance to reflect on the year that was and look ahead to what's shaping up as one of the biggest years for the All Blacks in recent memory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 17 · 1 hr 15 min
Liam Squire- Fan Favourite
Liam Squire was one of the most feared players in world rugby, he had an incredible ability to throw his body into contact with zero thought of self preservation. While that approach helped Liam Squire the player, it's taken a serious toll on the body of Liam Squire the man. He's had an endless amount of injuries throughout his career and is now left with serious hip pain, shoulder pain and knee pain as he moves into the next chapter of his life. In this Fan Favourite episode of What a Lad, Liam opens up about the full journey through rugby and life. From growing up in Tokoroa and finding his way into professional rugby, to becoming an All Black, dealing with injuries, stepping away from the 2019 Rugby World Cup and ultimately being forced into retirement. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… How quickly his rise from provincial rugby to becoming an All Black Dealing with the fame of becoming an All Black Winning a Super Rugby title with the Highlanders and the culture that made that team special Why he never felt completely comfortable in the All Blacks environment The pressure and scrutiny leading into the 2019 Rugby World Cup His battles with injury and the mental toll of spending so much time on the sidelines Being told by a surgeon that if he wanted quality of life later on, it was time to retire How he has adjusted to life after rugby and what retirement has really been like This episode was recorded back in 2021 but this conversation shows a side of him that most people have never seen. Honest, reflective and incredibly open, this is a fascinating insight into the highs and lows of professional rugby and the price that can come with giving everything to the game. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 10 · 1 hr 9 min
Jayden Broome- What a Lad
Jayden Broome is one of the most inspiring young rugby players you'll come across. A proud Gore local who spent his childhood with a rugby ball in his hands with a dream to become a professional rugby player. He was doing everything he could to reach that dream and everything was tracking that way. He captained all Southland age grade sides before leading New Zealand Māori Schoolboys to a historic victory over New Zealand Schools and even earned a preseason opportunity with his beloved Southland Stags. Then one moment changed everything for Jayden. After falling from a roof at a flat, Jayden suffered a traumatic brain injury that left him fighting for his life. He was placed in an induced coma, spent months in hospital and was ultimately forced to make the heartbreaking decision to walk away from the game he loved. Despite everything he's been through, Jayden's outlook on life, positivity and determination to keep moving forward is what makes this episode so special. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Walking 40 minutes to school and back every day and how that shaped him - Writing down his rugby goals as a teenager and dreaming of one day becoming an All Black - Getting his opportunity with the Southland Stags and realising he was good enough to compete at that level - The night of the accident and the reality of waking up after weeks in a coma - Learning just how close he came to losing his life - Coming to terms with the fact he would never play rugby again - Why he chose life over rugby and the powerful message he now wants to share with others - What his plans are in the future and how he wants to stay in the game This is a story about much more than rugby. It's about resilience, perspective, gratitude and finding purpose when the path you thought you were on suddenly disappears. Jayden's maturity, positivity and self-awareness at such a young age make this one of the most powerful conversations we've had on the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 3 · 1 hr 45 min
Kieran Read- What a Lad
Kieran Read is one of the greatest All Blacks of the professional era. A two-time Rugby World Cup winner, four-time Super Rugby champion and former All Blacks captain, Kieran built a career defined by consistency, leadership and an incredible work ethic. From a typical Kiwi childhood in Papakura, to representing Counties in both rugby and cricket, Kieran's path to the top wasn't as straightforward as many would think. He wasn't a player who came through every representative system, and by his own admission was a shy kid who often kept to himself. Yet through hard work, resilience and a constant desire to improve, he became one of the most respected leaders New Zealand rugby has ever produced. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… * Why cricket was arguably his best sport growing up and how close he came to pursuing it professionally * The moment rugby went from being something he loved to something he wanted to chase seriously * Making New Zealand Secondary Schools despite not being part of the traditional rugby pathway * Playing 49 consecutive games at the start of his Crusaders career * Becoming Canterbury captain at just 22 years old * His memories of winning Rugby World Cups in 2011 and 2015 * Taking over from Richie McCaw as All Blacks captain and learning to lead in his own way * The sacrifices that come with professional rugby and being away from family for long periods * The leadership lessons he's taken from rugby into business and life after retirement Kieran is one of those rare people whose achievements speak for themselves, yet remains incredibly humble. This episode is packed with stories from one of rugby's greatest careers, along with plenty of lessons on leadership, resilience and personal growth. Let us know what you thought of this episode in the comments 👇 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 27 · 1 hr 18 min
Jeff McTainsh- What a Lad
Jeff McTainsh is quickly becoming one of the leading voices in New Zealand rugby. From growing up in Dunedin dreaming of the All Blacks, to commentating games off the TV as a kid, Jeff has built an incredible career through persistence, passion and years of hard work behind the scenes. After working through radio, journalism, TV news and sports reporting, Jeff slowly carved his way into the commentary world — eventually earning the opportunity to call All Blacks test matches on Sky Sport. Along the way he’s covered Olympic Games, NPC rugby, Super Rugby, international rugby and become one of the most respected commentators in the country. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - The story behind sending a commentary clip to Sky Sport in hopes of getting an opportunity - Getting the call to commentate college rugby and how that changed everything - The surreal moment he got called in to commentate the All Blacks at Eden Park - How commentators prepare for games, player pronunciations and big moments - His hilarious impressions of Dave Rennie, Ray Warren, Hamish McKay and more - Why balance, fitness and routine completely changed his life over the last few years - His thoughts on the future of rugby, commentary and the All Blacks Jeff is one of those genuine good blokes who clearly loves rugby and loves storytelling. This episode is full of awesome insight into sports broadcasting, plenty of laughs, some elite impressions and a seriously cool story about chasing a passion and slowly building your way to the top. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 20 · 1 hr 15 min
Bryce Heem- What a Lad
Bryce Heem is one of the most underrated rugby players New Zealand has produced. From leaving school early and working trades, to partying his way through his late teens, Bryce carved out a 15-year professional rugby career through hard work, resilience and taking every opportunity that came his way. Playing for the Auckland, Northland, Tasman, the Chiefs, the Blues, NZ Sevens, Worcester and Toulon, Bryce built a career that took him all around the world and made him one of the most respected teammates in the game. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - How he's found his transition from rugby to mortgage broking - Going from working in refrigeration and air conditioning to marking Hosea Gear in his first professional game - The brutal fitness standards and lessons he learned under Gordon Tietjens in NZ Sevens - Why he chose to leave New Zealand rugby for Worcester and the reality of overseas rugby life - Returning home from France after his dad was diagnosed with lung cancer - How a simple message helped earn him a contract with the Blues - Winning Super Rugby with the Blues after years of being so close - His thoughts on missing out on the All Blacks and why he has no regrets about his career - Why “don’t burn bridges” became one of the biggest lessons he learned through rugby Bryce is one of those lads everyone he played with will conform he's a legendary man. Tough as nails on the field, humble off it and full of great perspective from a career that took him all over the world. Plenty of laughs, honest reflections and awesome stories in this one! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 13 · 1 hr 18 min
Peter Gubb- What a Lad
Peter Gubb is one of rugby league’s great characters. A Queensland Cup legend known for his physicality, longevity and hilarious stories, Gubby shares plenty of great yarns in this one. From the 3rd XV at school to still playing high-level footy at 37, his journey is anything but ordinary. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Hearing his side of the story on what growing up was like for him with his brother Charlie. - The reality of chasing an NRL dream. - His unique thoughts on training, longevity and being a “lifetime trainer” - The dangers of superstitions and when they can become too much - What the ultimate amount of caffeine is to take pre a podcast - His thoughts on confidence, backing yourself and saying yes to opportunities And some of the funniest stories you'll hear! It's not often I'll listen back to and episode and be laughing out loud but there's something about the Gubb brothers that crack me up! Peter is one of those blokes you could listen to for hours — authentic, funny and just a genuine lad. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 6 · 1 hr 52 min
Brad Thorn- What a Lad
Brad Thorn is one of the most unique athletes to ever come out of New Zealand. A cross-code legend known for his physicality, discipline and longevity, Thorn built an incredible career winning amore variety of titles than anyone to have played the game. In this episode of What a Lad, Thorny opens up about his full journey through rugby league and union. From dominating in the NRL as a teenager, to making the bold decision to switch codes and start again, and everything it took to become one of the most respected forwards in world rugby. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Reflecting on previous stories that had been told on the podcast about him before - The moment his mindset changed and he was a whole different beast - How he dealt with what came with being an NRL star as a teenager - Making the call to leave rugby league at his peak and sacrifice his prime years to learn rugby union - Being told he was hurting the team and how he dealt with that pressure - The mindset behind his training and pushing himself when no one else was watching - The pressure of playing for the All Blacks and what it really means to represent New Zealand - Winning the Rugby World Cup and how it felt in the moment - His journey into head coaching at the Reds and the pressure involved with that - His reflections on his career and the standards he held himself to throughout And heaps more! This episode is full of honesty, perspective and a real look into what it actually takes to reinvent yourself at the highest level. Thorny is one of the toughest and most respected players to do it, and this one gives a proper insight into how he became that guy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 29 · 1 hr 2 min
Seti Tafua- What a Lad
Seti Tafua has one of the most powerful and inspiring stories you’ll hear in New Zealand rugby. A talented young player chasing his dream overseas, Seti’s life changed in an instant after a horrific neck injury left him paralysed and fighting for his life. Doctors told him he may never walk again. In this episode of What a Lad, Seti opens up about that journey through rugby and life. From the moment of the injury, to the reality of being unable to move, the long road through rehab, and the mindset that helped him defy the odds and walk again. He also shares how he found purpose after rugby and built a new career as the Hurricanes Analyst. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - The moment he made a tackle and instantly knew something was seriously wrong - Being told by doctors he would likely have to rely on others for the rest of his life - Spending over two years in a wheelchair and the reality of daily rehab - The mindset he used to stay positive and never give up despite the odds - Taking his first steps again and the emotion that came with it - The unbelievable support from the rugby community during his recovery - How he managed to become part of the Hurricanes Analyst team. - His outlook on life now and the importance of staying positive and being grateful And heaps more! This episode is incredibly powerful. Seti’s mindset, resilience and positivity through everything he’s been through is something special. He’s the kind of person that puts life into perspective and reminds you what really matters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 22 · 1 hr 20 min
Jason Holland- What a Lad
Jason Holland is one of the most respected coaches in New Zealand rugby. A brilliant rugby mind known for his attacking detail, leadership and ability to get the best out of people. The man known as Alfie has built an impressive career through Manawatu, Taranaki, Munster, Canterbury, the Hurricanes and the All Blacks. In this episode of What a Lad, Alfie opens up about his full journey through rugby, from a young kid growing with a love for the game, to coaching the All Blacks and everything in between. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Always having a ball in hand as a kid and how rugby became ingrained in him from a young age - While always loving the game but not always training as hard as he could have - Heading overseas to Munster and the moment he realised what it took to become a true professional - Spending over a decade at Munster as both a player and coach and how that shaped his career - Getting the opportunity to move into coaching and the challenges involved - His time with the Hurricanes and winning a Super Rugby title with a special group of players - The transition into the All Blacks environment and the pressure that comes with coaching at the very top - Reflection on his time in the All Blacks and an insight into his decision to step away - An insight into his move to Head Coach the Blues next season. And heaps more! This episode is full of insight, honesty and some great perspective on the realities of professional rugby and coaching. Alfie was one of my all time favourite coaches, such a genuinely good guy who loves talking footy. I'm sure you'll enjoy this episode as much as I did. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 15 · 1 hr 26 min
Marc Ellis- What a Lad
Marc Ellis is one of the most iconic and entertaining characters New Zealand rugby has ever produced. A former All Black known for his speed, skill and ability to light up a game, Ellis became just as famous off the field for his larger-than-life personality, quick wit and outrageous stories that have become the stuff of legend. In this episode of What a Lad, Marc opens up about the journey through rugby and beyond. From his rise through Otago and into the All Blacks, to the wild days of student life, media, business ventures and everything in between, this one is packed with laughs, chaos and a few unexpected insights. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… His rise through Otago rugby and what it took to reach the All Blacks The famous stories from his university days and how loose things really got Buying a fire engine with his mates and the chaos that came with it The reality behind some of the stories people have heard over the years His mindset around taking opportunities and backing yourself His memories from the All Blacks including score 6 or 8 tries in one game! How he found the Warriors and the culture difference to rugby His perspective on risk, failure and why you’ve just got to have a crack And heaps more! This episode is pure entertainment. Marc brings unbelievable energy, humour and honesty, with story after story that somehow just keep getting better. There’s a lot of laughs in this one, but also some great perspective around life, backing yourself and making the most of every opportunity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 8 · 1 hr 4 min
Cam Suafoa- What a Lad
Cameron Suafoa is one of the toughest and most resilient players ever! A hard-working loose forward who earned everything through grit and determination, Cam built his career through Auckland, Tasman and North Harbour before becoming a standout for the Blues and earning selection for the Māori All Blacks and All Blacks XV. In this What a Lad exclusive, Cam opens up like never before. From his journey through the rugby ranks to the battle he’s faced off the field, this is an incredibly powerful and emotional conversation. Cam shares what it was like being diagnosed with a rare sarcoma, playing rugby while unknowingly dealing with cancer, and the physical and mental toll that followed. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - The determination to fight for every opportunity as a player coming through - Finding a lump in his back and later being diagnosed with a high grade sarcoma - Playing through the NPC season while unknowingly dealing with cancer - Undergoing surgery to remove the tumour and the brutal recovery that followed - Going through radiation while still training and playing rugby - The moment he found out his cancer had returned and spread - Coming to terms with being told he is terminally ill - The mindset he’s used to stay positive through everything - Leaning on family, especially his wife Britt, during the toughest moments - Making the most of life and appreciating the small things This episode was the hardest episode I've ever done but honestly Cam's positive outlook and ability to see things for what they are was incredible to witness. His honesty, courage and perspective are seriously inspiring. The way he has held himself during his battle has been so impressive, he's such a champion man who I know will fight with all he can. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 1 · 1 hr 24 min
Pasilio Tosi- What a Lad
Pasilio Tosi is one of the most unique stories in New Zealand rugby right now. A 140kg powerhouse known for his brutal scrummaging and ball carrying, Tosi has quickly become a key figure for the Hurricanes and has fully earnt his place as an All Black. But his journey to the top was anything but straightforward. In this episode of What a Lad, Tosi opens up about that journey through rugby and life. From working on the veggie farms with his old man, to moving away from home at a young age, battling through the Southland system as a number 8, and eventually making the switch to prop that changed everything. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Growing up and the work ethic he learned from his dad working long days on the farms - Playing both rugby league and union before being forced to choose between the two - Moving away to Rotorua Boys and dealing with homesickness and losing his mum during school - Heading down to Southland, living alone for the first time and learning how to be independent - Playing as a number 8 before making the tough decision to switch to prop - Getting “pumped every scrum” early on and learning the dark art of scrummaging - Putting on 20+ kilos during lockdown and the wake-up call that followed - Struggling financially early in his Hurricanes career while supporting a young family - Missing selection and being told he needed more experience before finally getting his chance - The moment Jason Ryan told him he was close to the All Blacks - Getting the call that he had made the All Blacks and what that meant for his family - And heaps more! This episode is full of honesty, humour and real insight into what it takes to make it at the highest level. Pasi is one of the real characters in the game, great energy, enjoys life and is full of sharns! There are some classic stories in this one and a lot of perspective around the journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
March 25 · 1 hr 31 min
Paul Tito- What a Lad
Paul Tito is one of the most respected figures in New Zealand rugby. A tough, uncompromising forward known for his work rate, leadership and physicality, Paul built an outstanding career with Taranaki, the Hurricanes and overseas with Cardiff, where he played over 120 games and captained the club. In this episode of What a Lad, Fish opens up about the full journey through rugby and coaching. From getting thrown into provincial rugby at just 18, to playing alongside legends like Jonah Lomu, Christian Cullen and Tana Umaga Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Getting told at 18 he was starting against Argentina - Playing alongside Hurricanes legends like Jonah Lomu, Christian Cullen and Tana Umaga - The call from John Mitchell that made him think he was about to be named an All Black - Missing out on selection and how he reflects on his career without regrets - His move overseas to Cardiff and becoming a leader and captain of the club - Finishing his playing career and transitioning into coaching - Starting out coaching his school and working his way into professional rugby - Moving to France and spending 18 months away from his family during COVID - The sacrifices that come with coaching and constantly being away from home - His experience coaching Georgia and being part of a historic win over Wales - Why he believes taking opportunities is the key to building a great career This episode is full of honesty, perspective and classic rugby stories. Fish shares the highs, the setbacks, and the sacrifices that come with a life in rugby, both as a player and a coach. There’s some seriously good insight in this one and a few unreal stories along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
March 18 · 1 hr 11 min
Tane Edmed- What a Lad
Tane Edmed is one of the most exciting young playmakers in Australian rugby. A great Aussie lad with a fierce competitive edge and a relentless work ethic, Tane has already built an impressive career with the Waratahs, North Harbour, the Brumbies and of course represented his country with the Wallabies. In this episode of What a Lad, Tane opens up about the journey to international rugby. From chasing his dream growing up in Sydney to taking a risk heading to North Harbour, where a standout NPC season helped launch him into the Wallabies squad. He also shares the reality of professional rugby from the pressure, the setbacks, and the lessons that come with it. Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were… - Growing up in Sydney in a house full of sport and why cricket was originally his dream - His journey through rugby league and union before committing to rugby - Why he believes hard work has always been his biggest strength - Taking the opportunity to head to North Harbour and how that season helped his game - The moment he saw Joe Schmidt calling and realised he might be heading to the Wallabies - Making his Wallabies debut and the brutal reality of being knocked out after just two minutes - Learning how to deal with pressure, criticism and expectations in professional sport - The mindset shifts that helped him enjoy rugby again - His goals with the Brumbies and the dream of playing in a home Rugby World Cup This episode is full of honesty, perspective and some great insights from one of the most thoughtful young players in the game. Tane talks openly about the ups and downs of chasing the dream and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He's a wise soul and great lad! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What a Lad

Antonio Shalfoon- What a Lad

Jeremy Eparaima - Change is Possible

Daniel Hobbs- Change is Possible

Lukhan Salakaia-Loto - What a Lad

Ben Volavola- What a Lad

Super Rugby Review + All Black naming reaction

Liam Squire- Fan Favourite

Jayden Broome- What a Lad

Kieran Read- What a Lad

Jeff McTainsh- What a Lad

Bryce Heem- What a Lad

Peter Gubb- What a Lad

Brad Thorn- What a Lad

Seti Tafua- What a Lad

Jason Holland- What a Lad

Marc Ellis- What a Lad

Cam Suafoa- What a Lad

Pasilio Tosi- What a Lad

Paul Tito- What a Lad

Tane Edmed- What a Lad