What a Lad
What a Lad is a podcast hosted by James Marshall, featuring conversations with some of the biggest names and best lads on the planet. The show covers a wide range of topics with a casual, entertaining style. It is produced by Betcha and distributed on Acast.
Episodes
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
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
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 comment
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
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 l
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
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 momen
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 rug
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
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 journ
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.
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 g
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 chas
Patrick Tuipulotu- What a Lad
Patrick Tuipulotu has been one of the most respected forwards in world rugby for over a decade. A powerful lock known for his physicality, leadership and work ethic, Patrick has built an incredible career with the Blues and the All Blacks, playing more than 50 tests for his country and captaining the Blues to Winning A Super Rugby title.In this episode of What a Lad, Patty opens up like never befo
Tim Bateman- What I've learnt starting my own business
Tim Bateman is a former professional rugby player who has transitioned from pro sport into the world of business and for me personally is the smartest man I met in the game. Every conversation I have ever had with him I have learnt something and this is certainly no different. From the structure and discipline of professional rugby to the chaos and pressure of running a fast-growing wellness franc
Pita Ahki- What a Lad
Pita Ahki is living proof that careers aren’t always built in a straight line.From struggling for opportunities in New Zealand and watching contracts dry up, to being told by Toulouse doctors that he had a “bad knee” and might not even get signed — Ahki’s journey could have gone very differently. Instead, he backed himself, took the gamble, and went on to become a 5x Top 14 champion and 2x Champio
Tom Savage- What a Lad
Tom Savage is one of those players who never took the easy route and deserves every bit of success that he gets!From jumping from level five rugby to the Premiership in a single summer, to playing over 190 games for Gloucester, moving to Japan at the peak of his career, and now helping build something special at Moana Pasifika — Savage’s story is built on consistency, work ethic, and knowing exact
Super Rugby Preview Ft Searley Talks Sport
Super Rugby is back! And so is the What a Lad Super Rugby Preview and who better to talk to than the great Searley from Searley Talks Sport to break down everything you need to know about Super Rugby 2026.We go through every team, highlight key players and share some bold predictions as we look forward to what looks to be the tightest and most entertaining Super Rugby season ever!In this episode
Manasa Mataele- What a Lad
Manasa Mataele is one of the players who is incredibly hard to tackle! His power, speed, athleticism, and freakish offloads has made him hard to handle for any opposition! From growing up in Suva, Manasa’s journey has taken him from Fiji to New Zealand, across to Australia, and now back home with the Fijian Drua.In this episode of What a Lad, Manasa opens up with rare honesty. He reflects on the h
Chris Jack- What a Lad
Chris Jack was one of the all time greats! A perfect combination of a massive workrate an incredible skillset, deceptive speed and a high rugby IQ which he showed during his 67 cap test career.In this episode of What a Lad, you'll hear Chris like you've never heard him before. From the good times on winning championships to some of the struggles he faced, there is plenty in this one!Some parts tha
Jeremy Manning- What a Lad
Jeremy Manning’s rugby journey is anything but ordinary. At just 16 years old he was playing against for the Marlborough Red Devils in the NPC which included playing in a Ranfurly Shield game against Canterbury while still being at school. He made the NZ secondary schools team on the wing ahead of Hosea Gear and out of school decided to take up a year offer with the Munster academy. Fast forward a
Cam Mcbride- What a Lad
Cam McBride is the very talented man behind the camera responsible for bringing the Crusaders to life every week. In this episode of What a Lad, Cam talks about his time in the police, finding a new career through content creation, and working behind the scenes at the Crusaders.In this episode, we cover…- What he's noticed from his first year working with the Crusader- How he started working as a
Owen Franks- What a Lad
produced and after this episode it’s easy to see why.A 108-test All Black, multiple-time World Cup winner, and a cornerstone of the Crusaders’ most dominant era. Owen built his career on work ethic, consistency, and doing whatever it took to get himself in the best position to perform week in and week out.In this episode of What a Lad, Owen opens up like never before. From earning respect as a you
Holly Parkes and Greg Johnson- What a Lad
Holly Parkes and Greg Johnson are two of the most purpose-driven people you’ll ever hear from.Holly Parkes first came on the podcast during one of the toughest times of her life, sharing what it was really like trying to support someone battling a serious brain injury and searching for answers that never seemed to come. Greg is a former NZ SAS operator who spent years exposed to explosive blasts,
Rueben O'Neil- What a Lad
Reuben O’Neill has one of the most interesting stories in New Zealand rugby! A proud Taranaki lad, a cult hero in every team he’s played in, and a man who battled more adversity than most ever knew. From crippling cramps, constant injuries, and being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes — to somehow rising all the way into an All Blacks camp before he’d even played Super Rugby.In this episode some of th
Hadleigh Parkes- What a Lad
The Welsh Rugby superstar Hadleigh Parkes is one of the great stories in rugby! A self described battler who played for Manawatu, Auckland, the Blues and the Hurricanes and at one point nearly walked away from the game altogether! It wasn't until a life changing call, a change of mindset and a move to Wales where he quickly turned himself into one of the best midfielders in the World!In this episo
Sam Lane- What a Lad
Sam Lane is one of NZs very best hockey players and an absolute lad! He is 100+ gamer for the New Zealand Black Sticks, two-time Olympian, captain and full-time financial advisor… somehow all at once. His journey is one of the most unbelievable combinations of talent, tragedy, resilience and pure Kiwi grit you’ll hear.This episode has everything — the brutal reality of playing for a national team
Freedom Vaha'akolo- What a Lad
Freedom Vaha'akaolo’s story is one of the wildest and most emotional you’ll ever hear. He is one incredibly talented rugby player who certainly didn't take the typical pathway.From the age of just 11 years old he was homeless, eating from trash cans, and learning how to survive. Years later, he was scoring tries for Otago using his speed and power which earned him a spot with the Highlanders.Durin
Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens- What a Lad
Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens is one of the most electric players in New Zealand rugby!A proud Taranaki man, who went from Blues prospect to a Highlanders star as his story takes a wild turn when a routine game left him with a fractured neck!What followed is a powerful story of perspective, gratitude, and rediscovering his love for the game. Jacob’s honesty and maturity in this chat is incredible
The Kiwiventures- Ben & Alex
Two absolute lads on one outrageous mission. Alex and Ben decided they wanted to do something that would really push them to their limits for Movember so became the first ever to walk across New Zealand in a straight line. What followed was six days of chaos: rafting rivers in a leaking dinghy, crawling through blackberry, dodging bulls, and getting zapped by electric fences, all to raise money an
Steve Devine- What a Lad
Steve Devine is one of the toughest men to ever pull on a rugby jersey. A proud Aussie who moved over to NZ for an opportunity with Auckland, where he quickly made NZ home. Where the fearless competitive halfback played a huge part in Auckland and the Blues success. From that came an his chance to wear the All Black jersey which he managed to do 10 times.But behind that toughness was a brutal real
Tom Christie- What a Lad
Tom Christie is one of the toughest workhorses in New Zealand rugby.In this episode the multiple Super Rugby champion opens up on leadership, injuries, and why he’s leaving the Crusaders to chase a new challenge with Newcastle’s Red Bulls.From captaining the NZ U20s to battling setbacks and rediscovering his love for the game, this is Tom Christie like you’ve never heard him before.In this episode
Mitchell Scott- What a Lad
Mitchell Scott was one of the most talented outside backs in New Zealand rugby, electric pace, unreal footwork, and a try-scoring instinct few could match. But behind the highlight reels was a rollercoaster journey through tragedy, addiction, injuries, and redemption.From losing his father at just three years old, to wearing an ankle bracelet just months before representing New Zealand U20s in one
Jacob Ellison- What a Lad
Jacob Ellison is one of Wellington’s great unsung heroes – a tough, mobile front-rower who gave absolutely everything every time he pulled on a jersey. From the Wellington Lions and Hurricanes to the Highlanders, the Māori All Blacks and several seasons in Japan, Jacob built a reputation as the ultimate team man.But this chat is about far more than scrums. Jacob opens up about his remarkable life:
Kylem O'Donnell- What a Lad
Kylem O’Donnell is a lad who has truly lived the highs and lows of chasing the rugby dream. From starring at Hamilton Boys’ High to winning an NPC title with Taranaki and travelling the world with the All Blacks Sevens, he looked destined for it all. But behind the speed, fitness and flair, Kylem’s story is one of setbacks, mental battles, and resilience.In this episode he opens up like never befo
Mark Hammett- What a Lad
Mark Hammett has done it all in the game. With 81 games for the Crusaders, 4 Super Rugby titles, 29 Tests for the All Blacks and now a spot in the Crusaders Hall of Fame, Hammer’s rugby journey is an incredible one. Add in a coaching career that’s taken him from the Crusaders, Hurricanes, Cardiff Blues, Sunwolves, Tasman and Highlanders, the influence he has had on each side has been huge!In this
Will Genia- What a Lad
Will Genia is one of the all-time great halfbacks and after this conversation I'm sure you'll understand why. With over 100 Tests for the Wallabies, a Super Rugby title with the Reds and stints with the Rebels, Stade Francais and the Kintetsu Liners Will had a bit of everything in his career!In this episode we dive into his remarkable journey: from growing up in Papua New Guinea where he dreamt of
Holly Parkes on What a Lad
In this powerful episode I’m joined by Holly Parkes, someone who lived through the reality of caring for Shane Christie in his final years. Holly has bravely come on the podcast not for herself, but to continue Shane’s mission, to shine a light on the devastating impact of brain injuries and to give others a clearer understanding of what life with CTE really looks like.She opens up about what it w
Du’Plessis Kirifi - What a Lad
Du’Plessis Kirifi has had one of the more inspiring journeys to the top and is one heck of lad to top it off. From growing up in Taranaki and spending part of his childhood in Samoa, to working three jobs while chasing his rugby dream, Dups has had anything but a straight road to the top.He opens up on the setbacks that shaped him — missing out on NZ U20s after being told he was “good enough but a
George Bridge- What a Lad
The latest Western Force signing George Bridge is our guest this week and what a lad he is! From humble beginnings in Gisborne, to carving up for Canterbury, the Crusaders, and then going on to wear the black jersey on the biggest stage of all! But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. George had his struggles moving down to Christchurch as a 17 year old, he had to deal with some brutal injuries – kn
Amy Du Plessis on What a Lad
For this one I am joined by one of the Black Ferns’ most exciting talents, Amy du Plessis. Amy’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring, from growing up in South Africa to becoming a Rugby World Cup winner with the Black ferns! Her silky skills and ability to play anywhere has made her a hugely valuable asset for NZ Rugby and now she’s now preparing to take on the world again in the 2025 Rugb
Angus Ta'avao- What a Lad
Angus Ta’avao is one of the biggest characters in New Zealand rugby, someone who is always good value to be around and has a great ability to bring a side together with his personality.Angus has done it all: NPC champ with Taranaki, Super Rugby champ with the Blues, he's an All Black, TV star, saxophone shredder and he is still playing rugby as good as he ever has! Angus is the ultimate lad. In th
Oli Mathis- What a Lad
Oli Mathis is one of the most talented young players in the country. The Hamilton Boys star produced some of the most iconic NZ Schools performances we’ve ever seen. Whether he’s been playing loose forward or on the wing, the 20-year-old has been unstoppable playing for Waikato, the All Blacks 7’s side & the NZ U20s. In this episode, we chat about:What it was like growing up in Waihi on the fa
Jamison Gibson Park- Fan Favourite
Jamison Gibson Park has gone on to be without a doubt one of the best 9s in world rugby! He's one of my favourite players to watch the way he plays with speed and controls the tempo of games while always nailing the basics. He was also one of my favourite team mates to play with because he was just a massive lad. 4 years ago this episode was recorded where he had just debuted for Ireland so it's p
Daniel Bell- What a Lad
Daniel Bell might not be a recognisable name for you all, but as soon as you hear that voice – you will definitely recognise the voice. The man widely regarded for having the greatest larynx in the country which we have heard delivering some of the great moments in Heartland Rugby! Donny Bell has an infectious love for the game and brings the fizz like no other.In this episode, we chat about:•Why
Sam Darry- What a Lad
Sam Darry is a massive lad! Standing at over 2 metres tall and at just 24 years old the man has achieved and been through a lot! And it feels like he is still just getting started, After dominating schoolboy footy, Sam signed with Canterbury young and then made a bold move to head north to the Blues, a decision that he felt gave him the opportunity to become one of the best young locks in the game
Mitchell Drummond- What a Lad
No one has won more Super Rugby titles than Mitchell Drummond! A man who has done it all in the red and black jersey, Drummy has won 3 NPC titles with Canterbury and a ridiculous 8 Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders – yes, 8 titles! Add to that a test for the All Blacks, a stint with the Barbarians, over 100 games for Canterbury, and being the youngest ever Crusaders centurion and you start to
Colin Mansbridge- What a Lad
Rugby fans don't get much bigger than Colin Mansbridge! Who also just happens to be potentially the most successful CEO in all sport, having been the Crusaders CEO for the last 8 years which includes 7 Titles! However, for many it was the way he handled himself and the organisation last season when Crusaders missed the top 8 which was most impressive!In this episode, Colin brings plenty of honesty
Nic Gill- What a Lad
He’s trained the greatest All Blacks of the modern era, he's survived the pressure cooker of test rugby, and has done so for the past 18 years! Nic Gill, the legendary All Blacks trainer, sits down for one of the great yarns full of honesty, laughs, and elite-level insight.In this episode we cover:What makes him one of the most respected S&C coaches in world sportHis reaction when Razor took o
Michael Fatialofa- Fan Favourite
For this weeks Fan Favourite episode we throw back to one of the most powerful episodes to date, I’ll always remember this episode for the feeling of goosebumps I got down my spine as Michael Fatialofa shared his incredible journey. Fats was one of the toughest players on the field I ever played with and he proved he was even tougher off it after a life changing tackle.The former Auckland, Southla
Scott Waldrom- What a Lad
This one has it all — Scott Waldrom, one of the most explosive loose forwards to play the game, jumps on for an absolute ripper of a chat and does not hold back. From growing up as a rugby super fan idolising his hero’s to playing with legends like Jonah Lomu, Jerry Collins, Christian Cullen and Justin Marshall, to getting dropped from Sevens after a scrap in Lower Hutt, Scooters career is full of
Marty Banks- What a Lad
Marty Banks was a cult hero, fans loved him. He looked like your average kiwi bloke, tall, low muscle mass and ran a distinctive curly mop. On the field he was a point scoring machine, he kicked goals from everywhere and made a habit of scoring long range tries which his deceptive pace. That's the Marty we all knew from the screen. The Marty you'll hear from in this episode is the one who struggle
Mark Stafford- Fan Favourite
We got back to an early fan favourite for this one with the great Mark Stafford!The beauty of a podcast, you think you know someone well, then you sit with them on the podcast and you are absolutely blown away with their story. That is exactly how this episode with the great man Mark Stafford aka Staffy went. Staffy has had an incredible journey to become the face of the TAB and the face of s
Ioane Moananu- What a Lad
"Who's that new hooker at the Crusaders?" That's a question I'm hearing everywhere! Well in fact that man is Ioane Moananu and this is your chance to hear all about this great man in his first ever podcast. Now Ioane is incredibly humble and down to earth with a infectious laugh and cool story. From struggling to start for Counties Manakau to becoming arguably the form hooker of Super Rugby Ioane
Scott Fuglistaller- What a Lad
Scott Fuglistaller was one of those champion team mates who did everything he could to be the best he could be. Unfortunately for the self acclaimed battler it was just never quite enough during his time at the Hurricanes competing with some pretty gifted athletes. He found a way though with moves to the Highlanders and then the Melbourne Rebels for him to become a regular Super Rugby starter and
Charlie Gubb- Fan Favourite
Voted by you guys as the funniest episode ever!Charlie Gubb is one of my all time favourite Warriors, not just because of the way he played on the field (even though he was an absolute animal) but more importantly because of how big of a lad that he is off it.Gubby is the kind of team mate everyone loves to have in the team environment, loves a yarn, loves banter and just loves being around the la
Taha Kemara- What a Lad
Taha Kemara is one of the most talented players in the country, he's fast, he's tough, he has an incredible skillset and more importantly he is a champion lad! For a 21 year old he has certainly experienced plenty of highs and lows from the game already some parts that stood out for me were..- Growing up as a bigger sized kid which lead him to playing prop until college.- His time at Hamilton Boys
Robbie Flynn- Fans Favourite
After 5 years of What a Lad here is one of your selected favourite episodes with the great Robbie Flynn. Robbie is was widely regarded as one of the most talented players in the country but as we all know talent will only get you so far. The beauty of this episode is how honest Robbie is with what held him back from fulfilling his potential. Robbie Flynn really should be a household name. He shoul
Andy Ellis- What a Lad
Andy Ellis is one of the most well connected lads on the planet and after this episode it’s clear to see why. He’s the ultimate ‘yes man’, happy to give anything a crack which is evident by his list of achievements.Some of his achievements include…➖ Hosting the no1 TV show in NZ ‘Moving Houses’➖ Having the no1 song in NZ with C-City Brothers➖ Hosted the morning radio show➖ Qualified landscaper➖ Bu
Harry Wilson- What a Lad
Harry Wilson in 2023 missed out on the Wallabies RWC squad and was even struggling to make the Australia A side! Fast forward to 2024 and he is not just in the Wallabies but he's captaining his country to some of the best form they have been in for a long time. For the last 5 years Harry has been one of the best loose forwards in Super Rugby, where his work rate and collisions are up there with th
Kyle Preston- What a Lad
Kyle Preston is someone who deserves every bit of success he gets. His work ethic is unmatched and to hear his journey and how he has stuck to the plan even when he wasn't getting the rewards was truely inspiring. Having had one of the all time great Super Rugby debuts a few weeks ago scoring 3 tries, it was an opportunity for Kyle to show the world he was as ready as he knew he was. Whether it wa
Christian Lio-Willie- What a Lad
The fact that Christian Lio-Willie is a qualified dentist still blows my mind! Almost every player I have spoken to has said it's too hard to juggle both but this man has done it! How he has got to this point has been some effort, juggling huge days of study while playing professional rugby, he mentions he had to plan every minute of the day.Having focused on his study straight out of school afte
Morgan Mitchell- What a Lad
Get ready for one of the most inspiring episodes yet with the legendary lad Morgan Mitchell. Born deaf, Morgan’s journey to becoming a professional rugby player was never going to be easy. Although he was an absolute beast on the rugby field from a young age, he was always told that he would never be able to play professional rugby. Thankfully the man who is known for his stubbornness was not havi
Jack Mesley- What a Lad
With Super Rugby just around the corner, who better to talk to than the Super Rugby CEO Jack Mesley. The fact that Jack was keen to come on What a Lad and share his very honest thoughts on the game and where it is heading, is proof that this man will do what he can to grow the game.Transparency was a big part of what Jack wants to see going forward and he certainly leading the way with how open he
Tom Walsh- What a Lad
Tom Walsh has been one of the best shot-putters in the world for the last decade so it was an honour to get him on What a Lad for this one.Plenty of people have suggested over the years to get him on and I can see why, he isn’t just good at what he does but he’s a massive lad with an incredible mindset which has seen him win Gold Medals at the World Champs (outdoor and indoor) and the Commonwealth
Brayden Mitchell- What a Lad
Everyone who has played with Brayden Mitchell will testify that he is one of the greatest lads to play the game, he was a champion team mate on and off the field, who loved a good time and could always back it up when on the pitch. Some of the stories and reflections that the man they call Scratcher has in this episode were incredible to hear. He was so honest, held back nothing and can tell a ser
Mark Nawaqanitawase- What a Lad
Mark Nawaqanitawase has had one of the most eventful 12 months in sport! Firstly heading to the Rugby World Cup with the Wallabies before changing code to the 7’s format of the game for the Paris Olympics, where he narrowly missed out on a medal. He then changed codes again, this time to the 13 man game playing NRL for the Sydney Rooster to cap off what was an incredible 12 months.What stood out f
Rob Penney- What a Lad
The life of a head coach can be as brutal at times and it's fair to say that Rob Penney has been on the receiving end of his fair share of public criticism. However, what I am excited to share with you in this episode is just what a champion man he is. From playing 100 games for Canterbury as a tough loose forward to becoming a Head Coach who has coached all around the world, the Rob Penney journe
Hugh Pyle- What a Lad
This week on What a Lad we are joined by Hugh Pyle who in my opinion is the greatest Australian rugby player never to be capped by the Wallabies. Standing at over 2 meters tall, Hugh's combination of skillset and workrate has seen him have a remarkable career firstly in Australia with the Rebels before moving to France, where he became a centurion with Stade Français. He finished off in Japan with
Hamish Kerr- What a Lad
Hamish Kerr is officially the greatest High Jumper in the world having recently won Gold at the Paris Olympics. However, what you're about to hear in this episode is an insight into the mind of the Olympic champion and you'll be amazed at how close he came to bowing out in the Qualifiers which in his mind would have meant retirement. The pressure that come on one single jump is insane and when you
Christian Cullen- What a Lad
Christian Cullen is a legend. You only have to watch a few minutes of his highlights package to remind yourself how good he really was. The speed and agility, his ability to change direction at full pace, his deceptive strength, add on top his attacking mindset and his braveness in defence! He was a joy to watch. He's also such a champion man who prefers not doing things like this so super gratefu
Casey Laulala- What a Lad
Casey Laulala is one of the most likeable characters you'll meet with an inspiring story from growing up in Samoa to becoming an All Black. Some bits that stood out for me in this one were.. What life was like growing up in Samoa with 6 siblings including All Black Nepo Laulala The pressure Casey put on him self to impress his dad and make him proud How he focused his mindset was to achieve his
Ross Filipo- What a Lad
Ross Filipo is one of the greatest lads in our game, whose journey through rugby has been nothing short of fascinating. Starting his rugby journey at 15, Ross shares his evolution from a talented but hesitant first five who could goal kick off both feet, to becoming the skilful and physical lock forward we knew him as. In this episode we explore key moments throughout his career, including: Early
Kane Barrett- What a Lad
When we talk about the greatest rugby family in this country ever, it's almost impossible to go past the Barretts. Kevin 'Smylie' Barrett was a Taranaki legend who also played for the Hurricanes, Beauden is a 100 game All Black, RWC winner and 2 x World Player of the year, Scott has captained the Crusaders to 4 Super Rugby titles and is the current Captain of the All Blacks, Jordie at just 27 has
Aaron Mauger- What a Lad
Aaron Mauger loves rugby, he's so passionate about the game and he is so grateful for his involvement in the game and he's certainly been involved! From playing for Canterbury straight out of school, to becoming a Crusader and All Black not long after. He then moved to Leicester were he won premierships over there, before injuries forced him to retire at just 30. Post playing he was always going t
Laurence Corlett- What a Lad
Everyone loves a battler and when it comes to one of the greatest battlers to ever play the game the great Laurence Corlett has to be up there. The man who debuted for the Hurricanes 10 years after his first class debut for Canterbury, the man known as Frank put in a 7 minute shift that will never be forgotten at the Hurricanes. The story of Laurence Corlett is one that has so many layers, he's a
Colin Cooper- What a Lad
Colin Cooper is one of the great great human beings, he's one of the wisest souls on the planet – a true legend of rugby in New Zealand with an incredible career spanning over four decades! Having played over 100 matches for Taranaki and represented the NZ Maori, and Junior All Blacks Colin has left a huge mark on the game as a player. After hanging up his boots, Colin transitioned to coaching, wh
Carlo Tizzano- What a Lad
Carlo Tizzano has burst on to the international rugby scene this season with an incredible work rate and tackle success rate and after this conversation it's easy to understand why. Growing up as an angry child, with 3 other brother constantly winding him up the aggression in his game was always going to be there. Having started out as a winger, he decided to move in to 7 a move with had plenty of
Ross Devlin - Living with a Brain Injury
Ross Devlin was your classic old school player, he threw his body and head into everything and was too tough to ever want to come off. Now Ross is convinced that he has CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) from multiple concussions which included a very significant car crash. He now just wants to help others who may have it or even better prevent people from getting it. The key message in this e
Bailey Simonsson- What a Lad
Bailey Simonsson is one of the best outside backs in the NRL and it was crazy to hear how close he was to giving up on the game! After a couple of years with the BOP Steamers and a short stint with the All Blacks 7's side Bailey returned home back to Australia with no professional contract. 12 months later and he's playing in the NRL final for the Canberra Raiders. This episode is another case of
