The Rugby Bricks Podcast

Mike Cron first began working fulltime with the All Blacks in 2004 and after many years as the All Blacks Scrum Coach, moved into a wider role as the Forwards Coach in 2012. Mike has been coaching since 1982 and is recognised as one of the most innovative and respected coaches in the world. Mike has now retired from coaching the All Blacks forwards and is now focusing on creating a mentoring platform for young players and coaches who are coming through the ranks. This is the first time Mike has appeared on any form of media outlet for a long-form interview and the value in this episode over-delivers. We cover: Mike's ability to learn from a range of different professional sports including the NBA, NZ Royal Ballet, NRL, sumo-wrestling, shotput and many more The two core contact points of your feet and shoulders in the cleanout, maul, ruck and scrum and how to transfer power through these points to maximise dominance in the game How to explain and deliver drills to athletes and gain their buy in when teaching new concepts and foster questions around why these drills are being taught and creating a safe environment for questions What Mike teaches players when entering the scrum for greater body awareness and simplifying the scrum in a way where all eight bodies move in the same direction cohesively to gain dominance upfront There are so many more gems in this episode that these four highlight points barely scratch the surface. I've said this before but this is our best podcast yet and for me, it was one of the greatest learning experiences I've had as a coach. If you're a forward, back, coach or admirer of the game of rugby this episode will blow you away. I've listened to it four times since recording it and I'm still getting new insights. Listen, learn and repeat. SPONSORS Rugby Bricks - Detail The Detail website is all about giving you access to the insights, tools and tactics that the worlds best are using to get better at the game of rugby. Long form episodes, Passing, Goal Kicking and a Workbook Program for only $8.99 the value in this is crazy. We have always tried to over deliver with content and we 100% have here too. www.rugbybricks-detail.com.

Abby Gustaitis is an American rugby union player. She debuted for the United States against France in 2016. She was selected for the squad to the 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup in Ireland. Abby is currently working on her game during COVID-19 as she looks to the possibility of the Olympics Games in Tokyo, next year. Similar to Abby this episode had everything, here's what we covered: How Abby is making the most of lockdown and the core skills she's been developing when you're not allowed at parks or grounds Abby has a Bsc in Physiology and Neurobiology and this has helped her develop world-class habits and breaking down poor ones How Abby focuses on her sleep and how this is directly related to skill development How the Eagles have shifted their culture from secrecy to an open culture where everyone focuses on sharing their knowledge to improve as a group as opposed to individuals This episode was a special one as it highlights the level of detail world-class athletes are willing to go to practice their trade even when everything is against them. If you're looking to build a culture that revolves around science, skills and better habits this episode is our best one yet for it. Get into it and take some notes. Rickaroons: https://www.rickaroons.com/ Superfood & Company: https://www.superfoodandcompany.com/

Otere Black plays as a first five-eight for Manawatu in the Mitre 10 Cup, Blues in Super Rugby Aotearoa and Maori All Blacks and someone I had the opportunity to play at the end of my playing days. Otere is currently leading the top of the table Blues around the park as the starting first five-eighth and has been a standout this season. Just like Otere, this episode was classy and here's what we cover: How Otere learns from Dan Carter and how this has allowed him to view the game Leading the Blues in the COVID pre-season against Beauden Barrett Otere's game process and how he handles game driving of the Blues team His process around goal-kicking off of the Wolf + and how his kicking has evolved over time This episode was insightful as I got to really dig deep on the details and learn from Otere and what's influencing his success at the Blues this season. If you're a Kiwi this episode is a special one for you and if you're from anywhere else in the world - you'll hear from how some of the best players in the world do what they do. Get some pen, paper and get ready to learn from this episode with Otere Black.

Will Greenwood is an English former rugby union player who played for Leicester Tigers and Harlequins and played 55 tests for England and was the centre for the 2003 World Cup-winning team. Will is now a Sky Sports commentator and sports journalist for The Guardian having written over 1.5 M words for the publication on the game of rugby. This episode was just class. Will is an excellent storyteller, succinct copywriter and master craftsmen when it comes to communication. In this episode we cover: Will's playing career and his love of NZ rugby including his own insights on the first weekend of Super Rugby Aotearoa How Will thinks about writing, communication and using this to capture viewers and readers attention and how to apply this to rugby Will's story about Jonny Wilkinson in the 2003 Rugby World Cup Final overtime and his attention to detail and practice Will's insight into the difference between Northern and Southern hemisphere rugby in the early 2000's You know a great speaker when you hear them speak and in this episode, Will embodies that. I loved every minute of this episode and if you're even a fringe fan of rugby you will too. Go train, do some housework or simply get some pen and paper and takes notes on this incredible episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast with Will Greenwood.

In this episode, we go deep on the upcoming Detail series that is coming Rugby Bricks followers and a fireside chat with Aaron Smith. One of the missing links I've found in rugby is the attention to detail. Some of the best in the world are making half centimetre adjustment to their hand position or ball drop and as a community, we've been missing this. This is where our new long-form content series "DETAIL" enters the picture, we're creating a subscription site that is based on bringing you the micro-skills that will help you perform better at the breakdown or just rapidly distributing the ball. In this podcast episode, I cover: What the DETAIL series will cover My most recent podcasts with Stephen Larkham and Devin Markle A 10-minute fireside chat with Aaron Smith Enjoy this DETAIL episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast.

In this episode, we go deep with Australian Wallaby utility back Matt Toomua. Toomua is an Australian rugby union player who has played over 35 times for Australia since 2013. He plays for the Melbourne Rebels in Super Rugby and his usual position is at fly-half or 2nd-five. He has previously played for the Brumbies and for Leicester Tigers in England's Premiership Rugby. In this episode we cover: The business of rugby and Toomua's representation of Union players in the restructuring of Australian Rugby His attention to detail and how these micro-skills amplify your overall in-game performance The selection decisions that drove issues within the Wallabies squad during the previous Rugby World Cup How Super Rugby needs to be restructured so that there is a better offering for fans to get to the game This episode was special, Matt is insightful, well versed and someone who is thinking about how the micro affects the macro inside and outside of rugby. Grab a pen, grab a note pad and start looking at how you can implement the gems that were dropped in this episode.

In this episode, we go deep on performance anxiety with sports psychologist Devin Markle. Devin has experience working with athletes at every level, from youth development programs, high school, and college through to Olympic and pro-athletes. She's developed curriculums for the NFL and the NBA Pre-Draft programs. Devin earned her Master's degree in Counseling and Sport Psychology from Boston University. Following her training at Boston University, Devin earned certification by the Association of Applied Sport Psychology. She is also completing her Psy.D. from California Southern University. She is also an Adjunct Faculty Member at California Lutheran University. In this episode we cover: The differences between stress and anxiety and how to recognize this in your performance How to overcome anxiety and look for those cues so that your team and coaches can support you when you're under pressure The origins of anxiety and how to accept this as a useful tool versus an issue that you have to face every day Changing your self talk to allow you to perform at your peak versus your most worried This episode was something we wanted to bring together as we're now moving out of lockdown and performance pressure is returning to everyone in some way or form. Grab a pen, grab a note pad and start looking at how you can implement the gems that were dropped in this episode.

Janet Main is a physiotherapist and strength and conditioning coach working out of Kinematics Performance here in Melbourne. Jay has worked with professional athletes nationally and internationally. In this episode we cover a return play after COVID: How to run so that you're carrying yourself with the appropriate back mechanics How to prime your muscles and the key exercises to do this Your most likely injury areas and how to remedy this before returning to practice and play This episode is extremely tactical and practical, if you're a coach or player who is getting ready to return to club rugby this is the episode for you. Take a look at our YouTube video on this episode so that you can get access to all of the exercises and drills in this episode.

Stephen Larkham is a retired Australian rugby union player and World Rugby Hall of Famer, currently in the role of senior coach for Irish provincial side Munster, who compete in the Pro14. Larkham has been recognised as one of the best first-fives to play for Australia and during his peak, he was one of the best in the world at 10. This mastery has now been channelled into his rugby his coaching game and was one of the reasons behind the success of the Wallabies in the 2015 Rugby World Cup as the attack coach. In this episode, we take a deep dive with Larkham on: His days as a player and his transition from 15 to a 10 and his continued dominance in this role The golden era of Australian rugby and how they created a world-class rugby team that believed they could win any game they played and taking home a world cup His time as a coach at Munster and the depth of his key players within his squad and how they're using momentum as a key part of their attack game How everything can become a competition and why this edge was important for creating a winning culture in Australia's golden era and how it rubs off as a leader too This was an incredible episode where you get to see what one of the best players in the world achieved during their playing days and then how this has translated to a world-class coaching career. This is a true bridge between the world of an athlete and a coach. Get a pad, get some notes and start learning on this one.

Jesse Kriel is a South African professional rugby union player for the South Africa national team and Canon Eagles in the Japanese Top League. He is a utility back who can play centre, wing or fullback. Jesse has played 46 test matches for the Springboks and was a part of their Rugby World Cup-winning squad in 2019. This episode was simply special we get everything from World Cup practices to Jessie's own examination of the micro-skills of the game. We cover: Jesse's drive to get better by getting a spare gym key cut so that he could train in the evening without the lights on so that others wouldn't know he was there The division of racism in South Africa and how the Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus made this something that his team would tackle headfirst and the inclusion of black and white players in their squad The exact details of how Jessie learned to add an offload to his game after playing against Sonny Bill Williams The unity that was inside of the South African World Cup squad when they took home the gold in 2019 In terms of episodes, this had something for everyone from coaches to players through to supporters and everyone in between. Jesse turned up to this podcast with a pen and a pad and is a true student of the game and it's something we can all mirror in our careers and lives. Download, learn and enjoy. SPONSORS Hudl - New Partnership Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking. Get your own kick reviewed now for 25% off. Rugby Bricks Passing Program This is our on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing. Get the program here. You can now grab it for 75% off until rugby is up and running again.

Ben Ryan is an English rugby union coach who is best known for coaching the Fiji sevens team to a gold medal in sevens rugby at the 2016 Rio Olympics. As Fiji's sevens coach from 2013 to 2016, he guided the team to their first-ever Dubai 7's title and set the record of tournament titles won by a Fiji Sevens coach with nine. The gold medal was the first-ever medal won by Fiji at any Olympics. Fiji is one of the most underfunded and under-resourced countries on the planet and in this episode Ben shares: How to create a culture around "The Standard you walk past is the Standard you become" Bens love for each and every one of the players and the lengths he went to build rapport and trust with each of the players Skill acquisition, attention to detail and how he fine-tuned the Fijian offload game to be the deadliest on the planet Ben explains how he overcame his ego when he was England to focus on team success, not individual success Building lifelong relationships with his manager Ropate Kauvesi and Captain Osea Kolinisau to take the team to gold in Rio. How to create a safe environment for any team or business where players feel safe and believe in the common purpose This episode was mind-blowing for me and it spoke to the true nature of what it means to coach and lead a team. Wherever you fit into the world of rugby this episode is an absolute must-listen. SPONSORS Hudl - New Partnership Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking. Get your own kick reviewed now for 25% off. Rugby Bricks Passing Program This is our on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing. Get the program here. You can now grab it for 75% off until rugby is up and running again.

Andy Ellis is a halfback who was previously playing for the Kobelco Steelers until COVID-19 hit. Ellis has played for Canterbury, then the Crusaders and made 28 appearances for the All Blacks. This episode was special. We get a look at what it was like for Andy to play alongside some of the greats of the game from Dan Carter and Richie McCaw and how the Crusaders culture is built with legends like Justin Marshall and Reuben Thorne. We get some nuggets on: What it means to have a championship-winning team and how this is reflected at training and in camp How to keep going when you're hurting and knowing that "you're not going to die" and pushing yourself through the hole when testing How expectations are set by the players alongside the coaches to breed a mindset of adding value and winning championships How to live outside of footy and how rugby doesn't have to be your defining moments This episode with Andy is an incredible resource on how to stand on the shoulders of giants, taking on an outwork mentality with everything you do and building a culture of excellence. If you're in lockdown and missing rugby this one will make you miss it even more so get stuck in and grab some notes on this episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast with Andy Ellis. SPONSORS Hudl - New Partnership Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking. Get your own kick reviewed now for 25% off. Passing Program 75% Off An on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing. Get the program here. Buy One Get One Free Using The Code: TWOBRICKS Due to Covid-19 and the shutdown of the NZ non-essential businesses, all tees will now only be shipped after the 29th of April, 2020. If you want to purchase a Rugby Bricks Tee please take this into consideration

Bryn Hall is New Zealand Half Back who has played 89 Super Rugby Caps earning the majority of these at the Super Rugby franchise The Crusaders. Hall has played for NZ Under 17's, captained the NZ Under 20's and has played 3 games for NZ Māori. This is one of the most detail orientated podcasts we've had and is filled with gold that you can use during this lockdown period. In this episode, you're going to get an in-depth look into: The skill work and attention to detail and training that have made the Crusaders the most dominant Super Rugby Franchise of all time The exact exercises that Bryn has used to strengthen and push his pass further and faster How the Crusaders are coping with the lockdown period and the guidance from their coaching staff The video review details and specific examples of tactics the Crusaders have used mid-game to beat other Kiwi sides Bryn's mentality as a player and how he approaches learning and focused on becoming a student of the game If you're a 9 this episode is literally one of the best online resources for educating yourself on what it looks like to execute at the highest level but also learn what a world-class team does. This is one you're going to want share with anyone regardless of their position on the pitch. Grab a pen and swap notes as this episode is a masterclass. SPONSORS Hudl - New Partnership Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking. Passing Program 75% Off An on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing. Buy One Get One Free Using The Code: TWOBRICKS Due to Covid-19 and the shutdown of the NZ non-essential businesses, all tees will now only be shipped after the 29th of April, 2020. If you want to purchase a Rugby Bricks Tee please take this into consideration

This episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast is a bit different. I'm joined by my business partner Kale Panoho who takes on the role of interviewer and we cover: How to deal with the lack of rugby right now physically and psychologically How coaches and athletes that have lost their livelihoods can pivot to improve their skills Where we're headed at Rugby Bricks and the future of the business during this time How to grow your own Instagram and build a business around the game of rugby This episode is for those who are wanting to come out of the lockdown faster, better, stronger than when they went in. Never in our lives have we been presented with an opportunity to focus on improving without the pressure of a performance. Now is the time to take that opportunity with both hands and work harder than you have before. This episode of the podcast we will give you the tools to do just that. SPONSORS Hudl - New Partnership Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. Get your own personalised kicking review done by Peter using Hudl based on the 10 Pillars of Goal Kicking. Passing Program 75% Off An on-field and gym passing program used by those at the highest level of the game. This program was crafted by Peter Breen with All Black Aaron Smith to teach players how to generate power, accuracy, and consistency in their passing. Buy One Get One Free Using The Code: TWOBRICKS Due to Covid-19 and the shutdown of the NZ non-essential businesses, all tees will now only be shipped after the 29th of April, 2020. If you want to purchase a Rugby Bricks Tee please take this into consideration

Charlotte Caslick is a member of the Australian Women's Rugby Sevens Team. The team reaching the pinnacle when they won Gold in the Rio summer Olympics in 2016. Caslick is a key member of the team has established herself as one of the best rugby sevens players in the world winning World Rugby Sevens Player of the year in 2016. In this episode of the podcast, we discuss: What it takes to be a world-class sevens player and how he made the transition from age group touch rugby at 16 years old to the world rugby sevens stage Missing out on selection due to an inconsistency in her tackling game and how she built upon this to be one of the best back sweeping defenders in the game Charlotte's mindset on the field, showing energy through her effort and the impact that she can have on the team Dealing with endorsement deals in the modern world of Instagram and influencing a generation on and off the field I loved chatting through the cross over in skill development between touch rugby and sevens rugby, ball playing and manipulating defences. This episode is must-listen for sevens fans and young players wanting to get to the top. SPONSORS: This weeks episode was brought to you buy Hudl.com Hudl powers sports. More than 150,000 teams including the best in the world use Hudl to elevate their performance with video and analytics. I personally have used Hudl throughout my career and now with coaching teams and personal reviews for Rugby Bricks. Hudl now powers our 10 Pillar Kicking Review, learn more here: https://rugbybricks.com/products/online-goal-kicking-review

Perry Baker is a member of the USA Eagles 7's and the highest-scoring American rugby sevens player having scored over 200 tries in Rugby 7's. Baker has established himself as one of the best rugby sevens players in the world and has won the World Rugby Sevens Player of the year award alongside being named in the World Series Dream team in 2017 and 2018. In this episode of the podcast, we get the nitty-gritty details on: What it takes to be a world-class sevens player and how he made the transition from NFL to Rugby How he went from sleeping in his truck, finishing 7 hour night shifts to go straight to training to get his shot at sevens How he took his inspiration from some of the greatest players to play the game Dan Norton, William Ryder and Christian Cullen and how they think about speed in the game of rugby Going deep about how he thinks about speed, tactics, finding and creating space for yourself This is one of the best chats we've had to date and it shows the level of commitment, struggle and perseverance to become a world-class athlete. We're a time in the world where some of us are going to have to struggle to get through and this episode is a real-world example of that battle. If you're anyone who is even remotely interested in Rugby this episode is for you - it has everything from skill detail to the hustle. We loved this one and we hope you will too.

Henry Bates is a talent-manager at Halo Sport who represents and advises athletes and coaches on a wide range of on and off-field matters and specialise in contract negotiation, player placement (both in NZ and overseas), sponsorship, commercial matters and judicial/misconduct procedures. In this episode, Pete goes deep with Henry on: What a talent agency actually does and how to locate and work with one What it looks like for players in the first four to five years after being signed How to vet player agents and find ones who are going to look after the athlete and the family How to prepare for an agent meeting and the right questions you need to ask Some tough stories of players getting stuck in bad contracts and how to get out of them This episode is a large deep dive on what it takes to become signed and the process of working with a talent agency. If you're a player who is looking at the next steps in your game entering the professional side of the game this episode will be gold. SPONSORS: This week's episode is bought to you by Halo Sport. Halo Sport helps professional and aspiring athletes and their families navigate the world of modern sport. The business has been built around rugby and remains rugby focused but they now represent athletes and coaches from a variety of sports and are involved in all aspects of the business of sport in NZ and Japan. Henry Bates is a player-manager at Halo Sport who represents and advises athletes and coaches on a wide range of on and off-field matters and specialise in contract negotiation, player placement (both in NZ and overseas), sponsorship, commercial matters and judicial/misconduct procedures. To take a look at what the team at Halo Sports can do for you and get in touch with Batesy on his email: [email protected]

Annika is a rugby player currently campaigning with the Melbourne Rebels in the Super W. Annika loves playing rugby almost as much as she loves having a yarn. Annika has a double degree in Law and Arts, a Diploma of Legal Practice and is admitted as a Solicitor by the NSW Supreme Court. More recently, she has spent 3 years in corporate development and marketing for a Newcastle based spatial data analytics company. In her free time, Annika throws her energy into social media projects and is currently behind the Rebel Like Her channel promoting the Rebels Super W journey. In this episode, Annika turns the tables and interviews me, here is what's covered: You're the average of the five people you spend the most time with so make sure you choose your tribe wisely How to start an online business and how we've done this at Rugby Bricks The difference between coaching boys and girls How to offer cues on the pitch and the art of having a thrifty tongue This episode is a great episode if you're a coach who is looking to take their skills to the next level or somebody who is looking to get into the business of rugby. Please enjoy this wide-ranging interview with myself and Annika. SPONSORS: This week's episode is bought to you by Halo Sport. Halo Sport helps professional and aspiring athletes and their families navigate the world of modern sport. The business has been built around rugby and remains rugby focused but they now represent athletes and coaches from a variety of sports and are involved in all aspects of the business of sport in NZ and Japan. Henry Bates is a player-manager at Halo Sport who represents and advises athletes and coaches on a wide range of on and off-field matters and specialise in contract negotiation, player placement (both in NZ and overseas), sponsorship, commercial matters and judicial/misconduct procedures. To take a look at what the team at Halo Sports can do for you and get in touch with Batesy on his email: [email protected]

Tamati Ellison is a rugby union player who has played rugby across all forms of the union code. He was chosen as one of four new caps for the All Blacks 2009 end of year tour to Europe. As well as the All Blacks, Junior All Blacks and the New Zealand Maori, he played for the New Zealand Sevens and was a part of the New Zealand Sevens team that won a gold medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. In this episode, Tamati shares: What it's like to grow up in a low socio-economic environment and gather information and create the All Black dream Tamati's experiences with legendary All Black 7's coach Gordon Tietjens through to working with All Black coaches Graham Henry and Steve Hansen How to incorporate gratitude into your everyday life as a player and professional How to make learning a lifelong priority This episode is one of the best we've had in terms of balancing a world-class playing career with what it takes to be a world-class learner and human being. Tamati's story, gratitude and willingness to learn is second to none so make sure you look for the nuggets in this episode in how you can take Tamati's knowledge and apply it to your own life.

Kees Meeuws is a former professional rugby player with a career spanning 20 years representing the All Blacks, Highlanders, Blues and three-seasons in France. Meeuws was seen as one of the toughest props in the game and was a figure-head for New Zealand Rugby with his time at the All Blacks from 1998 - 2004. His physical style of play and uncompromising ability to dominate his opposition in the scrum was the cornerstone of his game. A strong connection to Maori culture meant he had a significant impact on the team environment and the development of All Black Haka as we see it today. This Podcast is our first masterclass into the world of being a front-rower and what that means. Here are some of the highlights from our chat: The art of scrummaging against teammates and picking the brains of world-class coaches to become one of the best to ever do it How he approached his first training session with the All Blacks His post-career learning and his thoughts on the world of professional commentary and the challenges he faced with dealing with the general public I played in the backs my entire career but on this episode, I absolutely loved going deep into the world of the front row with Kees. The detail and how obsessed he became with being one of the best props in the world is something we can all learn from. If you know anyone playing or coaching scrums send them this episode because as a front-rower it's one you don't want to miss out on.

Mike Friday is a former national representative for England sevens and has coached England, Kenya and the United States sevens team. Friday's work as a head coach has led Kenya and the US to their best performances in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens series. The U.S. and Friday began the 2015–16 Series by "shocking the world" when it defeated New Zealand for the first time at 2015 Dubai Sevens. The team beat the 12-time World Series champion in pool play and again in the tournament's third-place match. Their biggest win came in 2018 when they won their first tournament on home soil and are now known as one of the most dangerous sides in the tournament. This podcast is our first masterclass in the game of Rugby Sevens and we cover: The art of nurturing and understanding players and their personalities by mixing the soft and hard skills of coaching How he developed the success and turn arounds of both Kenya and US sevens rugby The speed boys of the US we cover Carlin Isles (the world's fastest rugby player) and Perry Baker who have both been the highest try scorers for a season in the World Rugby Sevens tournament This one is an absolute masterclass on coaching, player cultivation and understanding how to give the 110% effort and develop the mental game for Sevens and Fifteens. If you know anyone involved in coaching or sevens send this one on to them as they're going to love this episode.

Sione Faumuina was a professional rugby league player who has played for the New Zealand Warriors, Canberra Raiders, North Queensland Cowboys and has earned a couple of caps for New Zealand between 2003 - 2004. Today, Sione is building Athlete Empire a company focused on building the brands and businesses of what athletes can achieve outside of their playing careers and sharing the lessons of those who have done it before with new up and coming athletes. Sione shares some of his career highlights, what it's like to thrive under pressure and how he's overcome some of his personal demons - here is the highlight reel: The exact details of Sione's peak of his career and the subsequent lows of going through AA How athletes should distributue their money and spendings to increase their paying longevity and career How basketball allowed him to increase his peripheral vision and work on distributing the ball on the pitch to anyone and everyone The upcoming launch of Athlete Empire and what it's like to work among top-performing athletes from World Cup winners & Internationally recognized athletes across both Leauge and Union This episode shows the good and bad of what it's like to be a professional athlete and gives you a toolset to thrive under conditions of pressure and stress. If you're an aspiring athlete or are already one this episode is our best yet. Get in front of the speakers and take in some knowledge. SPONSORS: This week's episode is bought to you by Athlete Empire, Founder and former NRL player Sione Faumuina, assists elite and prospective athletes in building and leveraging their personal brand through their online education platform and mentoring service that is launching in March. The platform includes video tutorials from World Cup Winner and All Black Nehe Milne Skudder, Gerard Beale, Honey Hireme and over 20 other athletes delivering world-class knowledge on how to perform at your best physically, mentally and monetarily on and off the pitch. Head over to their website www.athleteempire.com and sign up to their landing page to get a free downloadable PDF made with NRL superstar Gerard Beale and a copy of Sione's book "The Second Phase", again that's www.athleteempire.com and sign up for the pre-launch for some goodies, I've seen some of their content and you're not going to want to miss out when it goes live.

Lima Sopoaga is a professional rugby union player who has played for the Wellington Lions & Southland Stags in New Zealand's provincial competition before joining the Highlanders and eventually making his debut for the All Blacks in 2015. Sopoaga is now playing for the Wasps in the Gallagher Premiership. Lima shares some incredible insights in this episode of the podcast and if you're a goal kicker you're going to love the attention to detail. Here are some of the pieces from the highlight reel: The exact details of how Lima approaches his goal kicking Lima's time in Southland and how Otago has shaped him as an athlete His experience with the Highlanders including some of their best and worst years How Lima tackles his work in rugby and what he has done to overcome doubt, frustrations, and setbacks when not being selected This episode is our most detailed yet and shares the intricacies of goal kicking through to the hardship of non-selection and overcoming these obstacles. If you're looking to knock over some more conversions this season this episode was made for you.

Kelly Brazier is a sevens, touch, and 15's rugby national representative for New Zealand having accumulated 144 caps across the different codes. She's the third highest point scorer in women's rugby in New Zealand and holds the record for scoring the most points in a premier match in New Zealand women's rugby (64 points). Kelly made her national debut in 2009 and has gathered four world cup victories, a Silver Olympic medal, Commonwealth Gold which is all shared in this episode of the podcast. You're going to get a masterclass on the women's game - you'll hear: - How the Black Ferns prepare for their matches - How Kelly's personally prepares for her matches and exact pre-match routine - How the Black Ferns analyze their opponents before facing certain teams - Her personal experience with IVF and her first child - How to look at space and create attacking opportunities and a bit of whack city across touch, 15's and sevens If you're a coach you're going to love the detail of what the Ferns are executing, if you're a player you're going to hear what it looks like to be a multi-sport athlete and create a decade of great footy and beyond.

In this episode of the Rugby Bricks Podcast, we have a bit of a change of pace where I run through chapters that teach you how I create goals, how I look at projects and how you can apply this to yourself and your footy season this year. This episode is a 12-minute tactical look on how to make this your best season yet. I cover: How to create goals that work for you and your season How to create projects that you can execute on with measurable outcomes Lessons from my best coaches and athletes I've worked with and how I use this for my planning How I use a workbook and the exact way I write in this to help me get where I need to go This is our most tactical and instructional podcast yet and only takes 12 minutes to digest. If you want to nail your upcoming year as an athlete and as an individual this episode will set you on the right track for the year. Get stuck, outwork and outlearn.

Ryan Papenhuyzenan is an Australian professional rugby league footballer who plays for the Melbourne Storm in the National Rugby League (NRL), as a fullback. 2019 was a sensational breakout year for Paps at the Storm. He took his opportunity and ran with it - literally - when he made his debut in round four, cementing his place in first-grade with his incredible pace and blistering attack on the line. Averaging 126 meters across 22 games, producing 17 line breaks, nine tries, and five try assists this kid is a freak. In this episode of the podcast, you'll hear what Ryan learned from Billy Slater, his work ethic and what's separated him from others in NRL and how he's turned into one of the most promising players of 2020 at only 80 kgs. If you're someone who is looking for inspiration this season you do not need to look any further than this episode as Ryan is world-class and he delivers on this episode.

In this episode of the Rugby Bricks Podcast, we have a bit of a change of pace where I'm interviewed by my business partner Kale Panoho. We cover: What I learned from working with the All Blacks Aaron Smith, Richie Mounga and Beauden Barrett What some of the best things I've learned from the guests that I've interviewed on the podcast The development of all of our tees from the RB88 through to the RB Wolf Plus What separates great players versus talented players at training and the love for detail What the year has meant to us over at Rugby Bricks and saying thank you to you, our listeners as we wouldn't be here without you What's the best advice I'd give to new players in the high school grade and what you should avoid This episode is a master class in the detail from working with All Blacks through to the guests we've had on the podcast and much, much more. This is one of our most detailed oriented episodes yet so listen to this on .75x speed and learn as much you can. Have a great Christmas and an even better new year! Outwork & Outlearn!

Tony Brown is a former All Black who played first-five eight with an incredible playing career that spanned 16 years starting in Otago, then with the Highlanders, then over to Japan & South Africa and finally finishing his playing career back in Otago. Today, Brown is known for his work as one of the best-attacking coaches on the planet and his work as the assistant coach of Japan saw them topple both Scotland and Ireland at the 2019 Rugby World Cup and earning their first-ever quarter-final appearance. He is currently sitting in an assistant coaching position with the Highlanders for the 2020 season. In this episode of the podcast, you'll hear why Tony turned down the All Black role to continue working with Japan, his philosophy around how he coaches players individually and how Japanese rugby became known as the fastest attacking team on the planet. If you're a coach or player then this episode will give you everything you need to teach players how to execute on what is in front of them and how to imprint your brand of rugby that you want your team to use. Share this episode with your leadership team and start making your playing plans for 2020. Sponsors: Today's episode is bought to you by the team here at Rugby Bricks and the launch of the new RB Wolf +. New Zealand made and designed for kickers who are looking to put the ball over from any distance on the pitch this tee is designed with maximal exposure to the ball surface. The new Wolf + design gives the kicker a clear sight of the sweet spot on the ball while holding the ball set up in an upright position. The grip of the two front teeth and the two back walls on which the ball sits in combination with the thermoplastic material allows you to individualize how you place the ball on the tee whether that's upright or flat. Perfect for any low or mid tee kicker who wants to set the ball up vertical or leaning forwards at that lower height. You can find the new tee here: https://rugbybricks.com/collections/kicking-tees/products/rb-wolf-plus

Chloe Dalton is a triple sport professional athlete, having played in the WNBL for the Sydney Flames, won an Olympic gold medal with the Australian Rugby Sevens and transitioned to AFLW where she currently plays with the Carlton Blues. Chloe represented Australia in rugby sevens and made her debut at the 2014 Dubai Women's Sevens being a part of the 2016 Rio team that won gold we get to learn the lessons of what it looks like to reach the pinnacle of sporting achievement. On top of Chloe's colossal sporting achievements, you're going to learn what it takes to become a dual athlete in the fields of AFL & Sevens, the training it takes to become an Olympian while holding down a full-time job and understand what it takes to change the narrative around the women's game. If you're a multi-sport athlete who is wanting to become an olympian, create change with the things you care about, the goals and regimes needed to excel at the top this episode gives you everything you need. Get stuck in and get learning and if you want to find out more about Chloe you can find her here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chloeedalton/

Ben O'Keeffe is a rugby union referee and ophthalmologist (eye doctor) from New Zealand. He referees at the domestic, super and test match level and was one of the assistant referees in this year's Rugby World Cup final in Japan. O'Keeffe became an official referee in 2013 and has since officiated 43 ITM Cup matches, 48 Super Rugby matches, 20 test matches and now this year took control of 4 World Cup matches. In this episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast, we chat Rugby World Cup 2019 and why it was the highest number of red cards ever handed out by referees, how Ben deals with being both a doctor and referee, handling the pressure of the players and dealing with the crap that comes from the crowd. In this episode, you'll learn what it looks like to deal with pressure in a surgical context of looking after patients' eyes through to taking the world stage and making some of the hardest decisions a referee can make. This is an episode for any players or coaches who need to learn how to better talk to the referee and make sure they're with you and not against you. So sit down, grab your notebook and get ready to study how the best referees in the world officiate and how you can make sure you're on the right side of the whistle.

Aaron Smith is known as one of the greatest halfbacks to ever play the game of rugby. Aaron is the starting halfback for the All Blacks and has played 92 games for New Zealand, earned 137 caps at the Super Rugby level for the Highlanders and 43 provincial caps. In this episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast, we discuss the Rugby World Cup 2019 and what went wrong and what went right between 2015 and 2019, what it takes to fall in love with passing and how Aaron overcame the incident in 2016 after it happened. This episode has everything from tears to triumphs, how the All Blacks culture has evolved and what their leaders do in the highs and the lows and what it means to be a better man after dealing with setbacks and difficulties. This is one of the most humbling, exciting and courageous episodes we've had and is worth listening to every minute - so sit back and listen to this episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast with All Black Aaron Smith. To see the show notes on this episode head over to the Rugby Bricks website.

Emily or Bomber as she's known in the Wallaroos received her 1st Class Honours in Education Undergrad (at USYD) where she now works as the sport and fitness HR/events coordinator. For Rugby, Emily has represented the Wallaroos Squad in 2016 and 2017. Was also the Australian Captain and player at the World University Games for the rugby seven's in Wales in 2016, the NSW 7s co-captain in 2016, on the NSW 7s team from 2013-16 and has represented the XV Sydney team and Champions from 2015 to 2017. Emily brings energy to whatever she's doing on and off the pitch and in this episode we chat about how to cultivate the "I Got You" attitude, how to spark culture and how to let your teammates know that you're always there to support them. Pete and Emily dissect the "Tall Poppy" problem that exists in New Zealand and Aussie culture and how to respect the work you've put in on the pitch and be proud of what you've achieved.

Our guest today is Monty Betham. Monty is a league legend who played 101 tests for the NZ Warriors from 99 - 2005, 9 test matches for New Zealand, had a boxing career with an 8 - 1 record and now a presenter for Sky Sports, Personal Trainer at his gym in Auckland, owns a non-profit foundation called Steps For Life and now a partner at Indigo. Monty was involved with one of the most prosperous periods of growth at the New Zealand Warriors when the team reached the grand final in 2002. His boxing career is one of the most successful to date with an 8 - 1 winning record barely losing to Shane Cameron and he has appeared on Dancing with the Stars, Celebrity Treasure Island and a regular presenter for Sky Sports on both League, Boxing and the Olympics. In this episode, Pete and Kale (Rugby Bricks partners) jump into Monty's pre-game rituals, how Monty turned down his largest-ever salary to pursue a career that followed his purpose, how to plan for success and how talent can be outworked when talent doesn't work. If you want to find out more about Monty and his work you can find him at: https://www.stepsforlife.co.nz/ Sponsors: Today's episode is bought to you by the team here at Rugby Bricks and the launch of the newly revamped Rugby Bricks Freeze Lifestlye Program. This program has everything you need to create a physique that will get you through your upcoming off-season. You can get the first week free here: https://rugbybricks.com/products/freeze-program

Our guest today is Rachael Burford who is one of the first professionally paid women in English Rugby and owner of Twelve and The Burford Academy. Rachael is one of the most capped females for England Rugby having earned 79 caps at Centre for the Red Roses. She's an IRB World Cup Champion, representing England in both 7's and 15's and was named England player of the year in 2014. She's won the Medway Sports Personality 4 times and was voted the BBC Sports Personality of The Year in 2014 and Sky Sports Women's Team of The Year in 2014. In this episode, we take a deep dive into how to receive and give great player feedback, the Burford Academy and how this is helping female players enter the game of rugby, what makes coaches inspiring to play for and much, much more. If you want to find more about Rachael you can find her here: https://www.burford12.co.uk/about-rachael.html Sponsors: Today's episode is bought to you by the team here at Rugby Bricks and the launch of the newly revamped Rugby Bricks Freeze Lifestlye Program. This program has everything you need to create a physique that will get you through your upcoming off-season. You can get the first week free here: https://rugbybricks.com/products/freeze-program

Our guest today is Devin Markle, owner of Devin Markle Consulting. Devin has experience working with athletes at every level, from youth development programs, high school, and college through to Olympic and pro-athletes. She's developed curriculums for the NFL and the NBA Pre-Draft programs. Devin earned her Master's degree in Counseling and Sport Psychology from Boston University. Following her training at Boston University, Devin earned certification by the Association of Applied Sport Psychology. She is also completing her Psy.D. from California Southern University. She is also an Adjunct Faculty Member at California Lutheran University. In this episode, we dive into understanding what is mindset and how athletes should think about this, the most common mistakes she's seen in athletes across all levels and how to create a world-class pre-game routine. You can find her at: devinmarkleconsulting.com Sponsors: Today's episode is bought to you by the team here at Rugby Bricks and the launch of the newly revamped Rugby Bricks Freeze Lifestlye Program. This program has everything you need to create a physique that will get you through your upcoming off-season. You can get the first week free here: https://rugbybricks.com/products/freeze-program

Our guest today is none other than Peter Breen founder of Rugby Bricks and he's being interviewed by Rugby Bricks partner Kale Panoho. In our first episode, we discuss how Rugby Bricks was born and how the name came to exist, how Peter looks at coaching and his work as the coach for the Australian Wallaroos and what makes a good goal kicker a great goal kicker. We really dive into the weeds on understanding elite performance, the mindset and journalling tactics Peter used to become a goal kicker and making his way into the ITM cup as the starting number 10 in 2015 and how to keep showing up day after day. You can find more about Rugby Bricks at: www.rugbybricks.com Sponsors: Today's episode is bought to you by the team here at Rugby Bricks and the launch of the newly revamped Rugby Bricks Freeze Lifestlye Program. This program has everything you need to create a physique that will get you through your upcoming off-season. You can get the first week free here: https://rugbybricks.com/products/freeze-program