The Rugby Bricks Podcast

Welcome to another episode of the Rugby Bricks Podcast. We are thrilled to bring you this latest episode featuring our very own founders, Peter Breen and Kale Panoho. They are here to share their experiences, insights, and the exciting developments happening at Rugby Bricks in 2023. Peter Breen has been immersed in coaching some top-level teams in rugby throughout the year, including the Black Rams, Georgia, and Blacks Ferns XV. He touches on his unique experience with each of the teams and shares the learnings and professional development he has taken away by being in these environments. This unique opportunity has been instrumental in Peter's growth, both personally and professionally, and he is eager to share these invaluable experiences with you. In this episode, we dive into a variety of topics: We explore the cultural differences in team environments when coaching top-tier teams from around the globe. Peter shares his observations on how these differences work to each team's advantage, creating a unique blend of strategies and tactics. We give you an update on the second Bricks Camp which we will be hosting around NZ in January 2024. Peter shares his experience at the Super Rugby coaches conference where he sheds light on the learnings he took away from these high performance coaches and speakers. We discuss how Peter has cultivated a passing and skills culture within each of the teams he's coached, and how this has elevated their skillset in these areas. This podcast is not just an update on Rugby Bricks; it's a treasure trove of insights that can help you grow as a coach or player. The knowledge shared in this episode is limitless and can be applied on and off the field. Join us in this enlightening conversation with Peter Breen and Kale Panoho, the dynamic duo behind Rugby Bricks. 

Nic Gill has revolutionised the strength & conditioning program for the All Blacks over the past 16 years. The esteemed All Blacks S&C coach, known for his unparalleled expertise and tireless dedication has solidified his place as one of the greatest minds in the game. Gill has had one of the most decorated sporting careers, sculpting some of the most talented players and being a part of the most successful rugby team in history.  Gill’s knowledge and understanding of the game and how people train, allowed him to get his players to reach new heights of speed, strength & fitness. Gill has been the All Blacks S&C coach for over 200 tests which included over 170 test wins with back-to-back World Cups in 2011 & 2015. Gill has recently ventured into his own business, founding ‘rugbyready’ in 2022, which gives rugby players the tools to dominate on the pitch, push for selection and reach their full potential. In this episode, we dive into: The inside scoop on how Nic Gill gets the All Blacks primed for Test match rugby How you can challenge yourself every year with something that "gets you outta bed" to stay fit and healthy. How you can prepare your body with safe load management in the gym and be a cut above the rest. Who is the best athlete Gill has worked with within the All Blacks environment? The circulating question around being bigger, faster & stronger to play international footy and being relevant in today's game.   Whether you're a player, coach, or avid supporter, this episode has all the gems. It gives you the knowledge and insights to understand what you need to do to reach the next level and prepare your body for the upcoming season. You’ll hear untold stories behind the most successful rugby team in history and the enduring triumphs of Gill's illustrious career spanning over a decade. From the next generation to the pinnacle of the sport, this educational and enlightening podcast will leave you inspired and craving for more.

Ben O'Keeffe is a world-renowned rugby union referee and ophthalmologist (eye doctor) from New Zealand. He has climbed to the top of the referee ladder and is cited as one of the top referees leading into the Rugby World Cup in France this year.  O'Keeffe became an official referee in 2013 and has since officiated 43 ITM Cup matches, 75 Super Rugby matches & over 30 test matches and took control of 4 World Cup matches in 2019 and even a British Irish Lions Series in 2021. In this episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast, we chat Rugby World Cup 2023 and how this tournament will have added pressure for the match officials and how Ben deals with media scrutiny, coaches and public pressure. Ben has skyrocketed to the top of the referring world and it’s a credit to the time he spends learning about the game and admitting his mistakes and finding ways to get better. In this episode, we dive into: How referees rectify their mistakes and make sure future games aren’t affected by the decisions made.   The decision from Ben to issue a red card to Marika Koroibete vs France and understanding the impact it had when it was an incorrect decision.    The amount of pressure referees face from coaches, the public and the media pre and post-games and how they are reviewed by the referring committee.   Ben’s challenge of refereeing a game French leading into the World Cup in France and how this has drastically helped his personal and professional development.  This episode is full of detail and insights, whether you are a player, coach or supporter, you'll learn what it takes to make second-by-second choices when taking the world stage and how decisive you have to be to make some of the hardest decisions a referee can make with the crackdown on player safety and new laws introduced.

We are excited to share what’s been happening behind the scenes in 2023. There’s been a whole lot happening already and even more to come. Peter Breen has been busy and shares his most recent experiences and learnings while coaching some of the top teams in rugby and the NRL, which include the Bulldogs, Saracens & Harlequins.  Along with his time at these clubs, he has also been given the opportunity to coach at the international level with the Georgian national side during their European Championship campaign. Coaching at this level has helped Peter grow and develop as a person and as a coach. He discusses the importance of personal development and self-reflection, and how these practices helped him become a more effective coach. If you’re a player, coach or Rugby Bricks supporter, then this podcast has all the insights and key learnings to help your team on and off the field. We dive into:    The cultural differences in the team environments when coaching top-tier teams from around the world and how they each work in their favour.   The reason why the Bulldogs practice breathing exercises at least once a week to help increase mindfulness.   A look into what’s in store for Rugby Bricks in 2023 as we ramp up our apparel and product lines to cater for our customers.   Peter’s experience and learnings on getting to spend the week with the Harlequins and Sacarens a couple of the most successful English premiership franchises   How Peter has created a passing & skills culture within each of the teams he’s coached and how it has excelled their skillset in these areas. This podcast is a great insight into the direction of Rugby Bricks in 2023, with new developments and launches that are happening this year and what's to come in the future. The learnings you can take away from this podcast are limitless and can be used to develop you as a coach or player. Please enjoy this educational and enlightening episode with none other than the two founders of Rugb Bricks Peter Breen & kale Panoho.   

Owen Franks & Jase Ryan are renowned as a couple of the greatest rugby minds in the game, especially when it comes to the front row & scrums. Ryan is a world-leading forwards coach and has a decorated career to date. He has recently been appointed as the new All Blacks forwards coach in 2022 and will take them on to the world cup in 2023. Franks has also had an embellished career spanning over a 12-year period, he became one of the most capped All Blacks in history with over 100 caps and won back-to-back World Cups in 2011 and 2015.  Over the past few years, Franks & Ryan have joined forces to create the Iron Back Scrum. The mission is to introduce the next generation of front-row players with the correct technique in the safest way possible.  Both these two men have been involved in some of the most successful teams in not only rugby but sport in general, in this episode we dive into: How a scrummager has to take a different approach in today's game, due to athletes becoming faster, stronger and fitter than ever before. This has meant training at the top tier has become extremely specialized.   Why the Iron Back is so important in progressing a front rowers rugby journey by simulating true scrum techniques and coupling that with innovative technology at a world-leading standard.   How Ryan has dealt with the scrutiny of the public by coming into such an intense rugby environment and how his skillset will take the All Blacks to new heights.    The importance of coming into a team environment with a clear message, strategy, and mindset that everyone buys into and honing in on home truths.   Why it’s essential to focus on the micro details and how this needs to be delivered technically as a coach to get the best out of a team and individuals. From grassroots rugby to the All Blacks, this episode has it all. This podcast is for you if you are a player, coach or supporter. It gives insights and secrets into the most successful rugby team in history and how these two men have continued to succeed in their careers at the highest level for over a decade. We look at the evolution of the Iron Back Scrum technology and how it allowed the new generation to hone their skills with innovative machinery. Please enjoy this educational and enlightening episode with none other than Owen Franks & Jase Ryan.

Zara Fa’avae is the new CEO of Rugby Bricks. Her expertise has given her the opportunity to work with some of the world's best sports brands, including Nike, Adidas, New Era and more. Zara’s talent has led to some amazing interactions with some A-list celebrities including Kayne West when he came to New Zealand for an Adidas event.  Zara has had an accomplished career becoming the manager of Stirling Sports and now taking the role as CEO of Rugby Bricks. Her skillset has already been put to work; she has taken the company to new heights and will continue to grow the brand and the business into the future with her creative and innovative mind and work ethic.   In this episode, we learn what journey Zara has taken to reach her level of success and what she has learnt from joining the Rugby Bricks team. We dive into:   The future of Rugby Bricks and a look into the ongoing projects and products we create and develop.   Understanding the importance of culture and a positive team environment and how it turns into creative and innovative ideas.   How Zara met Kayne West and what she learned from that experience.    Why storytelling and having a positive ethos within a brand is crucial to an evolving and striving business.   How the world’s best sports brands stay at the top of the game through storytelling and creating lifelong customers.    This podcast is a great reflection on how far Rugby Bricks has come as a brand and how things are heading in the future. With the inclusion of Zara in the business we are able to rapidly develop as a company and give you insights into the direction of Rugby Bricks. We share some secrets and great stories about how we have gotten to where we are today and what’s next. If you are a Rugby Bricks fan or striving entrepreneur, then this podcast has all the insights to give you the confidence to take the leap to the next level and get you excited for the upcoming product releases and project launches.

Owen Franks is a current New Zealand rugby union player, he is a part of the 2022 Hurricanes squad looking to make his debut late in the season. Frank’s first significant playing role was for the Canterbury provincial team, then he moved on to play for the Crusaders where he won three consecutive Super Rugby titles in 2017,18 & 19. During his Super Rugby career, Franks also became one of the most capped All Blacks in history with over 100 caps and winning back to back World Cups in 2011 and 2015.  Franks is one of the most successful props at the Super Rugby and International level. Along with Franks's sporting accolades, he also has dived into a business venture with old Crusaders coach Jase Ryan. They have created a game-changing scrum machine to individually work on your technique at any level. Over Frank’s career, he has been a part of some of the most successful teams in history, we learn what it takes to create the results he has. We dive into:  The importance of Owen Franks starting the front row club to ensure there was a program to focus on the safe development of props and hookers at a young age.  How Franks had such a longevity career within the All Blacks & Crusaders environment and how to stay on top of your game at the highest level. The importance of being able to mentally prepare yourself before every scum and make sure you take the right steps and procedures to nail your technique and mindset.  Franks's experience with strength training and how to improve this aspect in your workout routine to build your power in the scrum.  From Junior rugby to the All Blacks, this episode has it all. If you are a player, coach or supporter, this podcast is for you. It gives insights and secrets into the most successful rugby team in history and how they managed to go back to back in the World Cup. We take a look at the tricks of the trade with what it takes to become a successful front-rower. Please enjoy this in-depth and enlightening episode with none other than Owen Franks.

We are excited to announce this long-awaited launch in the UK & Europe. Rugby Bricks is now live in the UK & Europe with the full range of kicking tees in all colours and styles. We have been working hard to get this across the line to give you access to tees without all of the hassle of shipping costs, customs charges and courier delays.  This episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast is a bit different. The podcast strays away from its usual rugby guest and will be a catch up on the latest news and next steps for Rugby Bricks in 2022. This will give you all of the information you need to stay updated with the brand and get on board our next project.  Peter dives into the launch of the Rugby Bricks going live in the UK & Europe and how are now able to fulfil orders easily over that side of the world. It is a massive step for the company and has allowed us to cut up to 80% of the shipping and customs costs that are normally incurred from shipping to the UK & Europe from New Zealand.  Peter discusses the main trends he is seeing within the rugby world and how some skill work is being neglected to some degree. The importance of all the other measurable pieces of training such as speed work & fitness should not be forgotten but ensuring you are practising the basic skills that ultimately make you a better more rounded rugby player and stand out amongst the crowd. The Bricks Club is our new Facebook group where the goal is to give back to the community and the game. Peter explains the creation of the Bricks Club and how it has become an interactive community for people to learn, engage and seek deeper information on rugby topics with like-minded people. This membership gives you exclusive access to videos within the RB Bricks Club. Each week we post exclusive content from professional players, coaches and clubs from around the world. Listen to some of the world's best rugby minds explain strategies, game plans and drills they use in the professional game. In this episode of the podcast, you will get a preview of the content to expect from Rugby Bricks in 2022, we dive into:    How people in UK & Europe will get up to 80% reduced cost on shipping due to the launch of the distribution centre in the UK.   The reason behind creating an exclusive member group in the first place and what you will get out of being involved in the club.    Why Rugby Bricks moved into the UK & Europe and what this means for the people in these countries.   The main trends Peter is seeing with rugby skill coaching in social media and across several clubs.   This podcast is an update on the moving parts happening for Rugby Bricks in 2022 and what is to come. We are excited to be able to make life easier to get your hands on the kicking tees without all of the delays & high costs. With the launch of the Bricks as we are stoked to see so many people join the club already and involve themself in the group.   If you are a Rugby Bricks supporter or rugby fan then this podcast has all the insights to join and be involved in the brand more.

We are super excited to bring you our newest project. The Bricks Club is our new Facebook group where the goal is to give back to the community and the game. The two brains of Rugby Bricks talk through the creation of the Bricks Club and how it has become an interactive community for people to learn, engage and seek deeper information on rugby topics with like-minded people. This membership gives you exclusive access to videos within the RB Bricks Club. Each week we post exclusive content from professional players, coaches and clubs from around the world. Listen to some of the world's best rugby minds explain strategies, game plans and drills they use in the professional game. Our latest chat was with International referee Ben O’Keeffe who walked us through his review he had done for Scotland vs England game in the Six Nations. In this episode of the podcast, you will get a preview of the content to expect from joining the club, we dive into:    How Rugby Bricks has created a strong fan and customer base by creating extra value in their products and overdelivering on the new project launches.   The reason behind creating an exclusive member group in the first place and what you will get out of being involved in the club.    A sneak peek into the Bricks Club and the calibre of guests that are lined up in the future.   Peter’s experience and learnings on getting to spend the week with the Crusaders the most successful Super Rugby franchise.   Examples of the benefits of being a part of the group and how it can benefit your own coaching and playing ability. We look at stories and experiences that will typically never be seen by the public eye. This podcast is a great insight into the new developments and launches that are happening this year and what's to come in the future. 2022 is going to be a massive year for the brand and we are excited to keep you updated with all of the projects and product launches that are coming soon. Kale and Peter share all of the innovative decisions that are being made.    If you are a Rugby Bricks supporter or rugby fan then this podcast has all the insights to join and be involved in the brand more.

Jase Ryan is a New Zealand rugby union coach and former player, currently the forward’s coach of the Crusaders and assistant coach to Fiji. Ryan’s first significant coaching role was for the Canterbury provincial team originally as a scrum coach and then became assistant in 2015-16 and went on to win back to back titles those years. Ryan is now coming into his sixth consecutive year at the Crusaders who for the past 5 years have won 5 successive titles. Ryan is a highly respected coach at the Super Rugby and international level. Along with his Super Rugby accolades he was also the scrum coach for the Black Ferns back in 2014 and the NZ Under 20’s for 3 seasons too. Over Ryan’s career, he has been a part of some of the most successful teams in history, we learn what it takes to create the results he has. We dive into:    The importance of Ryan starting the front row club to ensure there was a program to focus on the safe development of props and hookers at a young age.    How the Crusaders franchise has been so dominant and successful over the past decade and what goes into a winning culture.    The importance of coaches understanding that players don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.   Ryan’s experience on the Emirates Team New Zealand boat with Peter Burling and how they handled communication under pressure.   How Ryan overcame contracting COVID-19 being in a foreign country and how it gave him and extra gratitude and perspective on life.   From Junior XV rugby to the Crusaders, this episode has it all. If you are a player, coach or supporter, this podcast is for you. It gives insights and secrets into the most successful Super Rugby team in history and how they have won 5 consecutive titles in the past 5 years. We take a look at how a team can remain this consistent and dominant over so many years and what it takes to stay at the top. Please enjoy this in-depth and enlightening episode with none other than Jase Ryan. 

Chloe Dalton is one of Australia’s few triple sports athletes.  She has been a part of the WNBL with the Sydney Uni Flames. Chloe then represented Australia in rugby sevens and made her debut in 2014 on the Dubai women's sevens circuit.    Chloe won a gold medal as a part of the women’s sevens team at the 2016 Rio Olympics and was recognised as Australia’s top Rugby 7s player in 2017, winning the Shawn Mackay Medal. As well as her achievements in the rugby and basketball world, Chloe then crossed codes again to Aussie Rules. She made her debut in 2019 for Carlton in the AFLW, Chloe was recently named Runner-Up in the Carlton Best and Fairest Awards for the 2020 AFLW season.   In this episode, we learn what it takes to compete at the highest level across three sports & the journey to success of some of the top female Australian athletes. We dive into: How Chloe was a driving factor into getting the Paralympians competing at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics the same pay for winning medals as the other Olympic athletes.    The reason behind creating ‘The Female Athlete Project’ and why it is such a game-changer in the world of sport.   Challenging the misconception around women’s sports and shedding light on their achievements and gaining mainstream media exposure.    How Chloe managed to stay at the top of her game in each sporting code and receiving huge praise and accolades after each sporting transition. If you are an aspiring young athlete who is striving to make the next level then Chloe will give you the inspiration to do so. This episode is about the journey to becoming a professional athlete and gives you advice on how to handle pressure and adversity along the way.    This podcast is extremely relevant in the sporting world because women’s sports have typically had a back seat in terms of media coverage. As women’s sports is growing rapidly so are their successes and Chloe has created a platform to share and expose the incredible stories of Australian female athletes. Make sure you check out this awesome and insightful initiative ‘The Female Athlete Project’

Firstly, we can't wait to launch our first NFT on Friday the 17th of September 2021 and we wouldn’t have been able to get this across the line without the ongoing support of our community and the interest in the project so the thanks goes out to the Rugby Bricks community.    This episode of the Rugby Bricks podcast is a bit different. The podcast strays away from its usual rugby theme and dives into the cryptocurrency and NFT world to get you excited for the release of our first Rugby Bricks Gold Rare Mid Cut NFT this Friday.    The two brains of Rugby Bricks share their knowledge in the digital asset space and educate you on why it’s important and how it will work. If you’re into rugby and looking to understand the future of the space of how we see this working this podcast is just a glimpse. We dive into:   How Rugby Bricks has created a strong fan and customer base by creating extra value in their products and overdelivering on the new project launches.   The reason behind creating an NFT in the first place and how the artwork and production of the new launch came to fruition.   Why the NFT space is taking over and how cryptocurrency will change the way we pay, trade and create value within the digital world in the future.   Examples of the benefits of owning an NFT and what we can expect from large companies and how they will change the game using digital currency.   This will be our first of its kind Rugby Bricks NFT giveaway. With every kicking tee purchased on Friday via our online store, only ten customers will be receiving one of these limited edition Rugby Bricks Gold Rare NFT's at random. The holder of this NFT will receive annually a Rugby Bricks Limited Edition Gift Pack that is not for purchase on any other platform. Watch our latest @rugbybricks YouTube Video titled - What Are NFT's and How Do They Work?

Wayne Smith is a New Zealand rugby union coach and former player, currently the Director of Rugby for the Japanese Top League club, the Kobelco Steelers. Smith’s first significant coaching role was for the Crusaders in the 1997 season and went on to win back to back titles in 1998 and 1999, before being appointed the head coach of the All Blacks in 2000. Smith is regarded as one of the greatest rugby coaches in history. Nicknamed “The Professor”, Smith is considered to be the All Blacks tactical genius who helped engineer two Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. He is one of two coaches to win back to back Rugby World Cups. Along with the Crusader’s championships, he also helped the Chiefs secure their first Super Rugby title in 2012 and then went back to back again in 2013. Smith has had one of the most decorated careers of any coach and in this episode of the podcast, we learn what it takes to create the results he has. We dive into:    How Smith handled the public pressure of being an All Blacks coach and dealing with adversity when things didn’t go his way.   The importance of speaking your mind in a close coaching unity, even though the other coaches opinions may differ from your own.   How Sonny Bill Williams changed the game with his offloading ability and how Smith added his skillset into the strike moves.   The importance of having high-quality game sense and thinking on your feet instinctively when on the counter-attack and in high-stakes moments.   How Smith approaches each team he’s involved in with a different mindset and culture, as each franchise will vary in its values, ethos and strategy. From grassroots rugby to the All Blacks, this episode has it all. If you are a player, coach or supporter, this podcast is for you. It gives insights and secrets into the All Blacks camp and how they prepare. We take a look at being creative with new innovative tactics on the field and not shying away from strategies that haven’t been done or seen. Please enjoy this in-depth and enlightening episode with none other than Wayne Smith.

 Mitch Hunt is a professional New Zealand rugby player. Hunt was among the top 10 lead point scorers for the 2021 Super Rugby Aotearoa tournament and the top 3 lead point scorers in the 2021 Super Rugby Trans-Tasman competition.    Hunt has already managed to play over 70 games of Super Rugby with the Crusaders and Highlanders combined. He is currently about to begin the Bunnings NPC season with the Tasman Makos where he has already notched up 56 games for the club and has won back to back championships.   Since high school Hunt has been a stand out first five and fullback and has was involved in representative grade rugby coming through the ranks, including New Zealand Under 20s. His ability to read the game and break open a defensive line has earned him the opportunity to play at the Super Rugby level and most likely higher honours in future years.    In this episode, we learn what it takes to become a world-class game driver and how leadership is also about your actions on the field, not just what is said in the sheds. We dive into:   How Aaron Smith has instilled confidence in his players to make the right decisions and back themselves to execute when called upon.    The importance of creating strategies to beat teams that are stronger and more physical, but still being able to command the game with kicking tactics and having the team buy into the game plan.    The process Mitch takes when going through his kicking routine and basing his overall performance on the feel rather than technical issues.   How the Tasman Makos have created strong values and culture within the team environment which saw them become back to back champions in the 2019, 2020 NPC competition.    Mitch’s thoughts around playing for the Crusaders and the lessons and learnings he took from the franchise and how it grew him as a player leading into his Highlanders career.     If you’re someone who is looking to understand the skills, communication and tactics of a world-class first five and fullback. This episode is about taking the reins as the game driver and being confident in your decision making ability and having the freedom from the coaches to back yourself. It gives insights into a professional rugby environment and how they prepare differently for each team and being able to figure out strategies to dominate whilst being a smaller and less physical team. 

Kale is the partner of K&J Growth and Rugby Bricks. His companies have worked with local businesses like BNZ and local gyms through to international brands like TikTok, Microsoft and Monster Energy and have helped hundreds of businesses go online.   Kale is a member of the Forbes Agency Council and the only New Zealand representative to sit on the council and one of the key delivery team members behind Digital Boost. He has opened his own gym in a facility he didn’t own, and with no equipment except A3 & A4 cutouts, within 14 days he turned a $200 marketing budget into $202,000 of annual revenue.   In this episode, we learn the common mistakes people make when creating a business idea and why it is important to have core values and vision within a business environment. We dive into:    The Biggest mistakes people are making with attempting to start a new business and how to overcome those challenges.   Why Ryan Papenhuyzen is hungry for knowledge and extremely curious, and his willingness to put in the work to continue to get better every day.   Some of the Rugby Bricks product ideas that never made it to the light of day.   Peter & Kales top 3 coolest and influential people they have gotten the opportunity to meet over the past year.    The importance of building players and helping them develop and grow as people over simply going through the motions and becoming complacent.     How Peter foresees rugby’s future, what trends he is seeing and what people need to be paying attention to more. This Interview is a great reflection on how far Rugby Bricks has come as a brand and how things are heading in the future. The two brains of Rugby Bricks share some secrets and great stories into how they have gotten to where they are today and what’s next.   If you are a rugby fanatic or striving entrepreneur then this podcast has all the insights to give you the confidence to take the leap to the next level. Don’t forget to check out Digital Boost with more information and tools that will help you use digital tools and technologies to support your business’ success.

Chelsea Alley is a New Zealand Professional rugby player. She is currently the captain of the Waikato Women's team In the Farah Palmer Cup and has broken the union's record for most games and points. Alley also won the World Cup in 2017 and has been a part of the NZ black ferns since 2013.    For the past 10 years, Alley has represented clubs from an amateur to an international level and has poured her heart and soul into the sport. Among her accolades, she was recently named in the Chiefs side that played in the first-ever Women’s Super Rugby game between the Chiefs & Blues taking the victory 39-13.    In this open and honest podcast, Alley shares her thoughts into the reality of her own life as a semi-professional rugby player and how she has struggled with juggling three jobs and also performing at the highest level of rugby. We dive into:    How Chelsea's childhood developed her kicking game by practising in the backyard with her brother & the idea around most young players tending to overcomplicate these skills.   The Importance of women's rugby needing to change to a professional syndicate and breaking the stigma around their mental & physical wellbeing.    The process Chelsea takes to set up for a kick and her how internal feelings drastically affect the outcome of the kick in high stake environments.   Dealing with constant pressure and high expectations of the public to consistently perform at the highest level while trying to sustain a healthy life balance.   How Chelsea’s has become a role model for the youth and set an example for the next generation of women’s rugby players.   Chelsea's thoughts around the Chiefs Mana resurgence and her personal experience being a part of the historic first women’s Super Rugby game.   This podcast is extremely relevant in the rugby world and has been an issue that keeps getting swept under the carpet. We are excited to see the women's game grow and develop further in the future and we hope this podcast resonates with a lot of people and inspires young women to get involved in the game. Please share this podcast with someone who will really benefit from this sincere and genuine conversation. 

Ben Herring is a New Zealand rugby union coach and former player, currently the assistant coach of the Newest Japanese top league team the Hino Red Dolphins. He was the Otago rugby head coach from 2018 to 2019 winning the Ranfurly Shield with the side in 2018.     Herring's had a decorated coaching career which has given him the opportunity to be involved with two Super Rugby teams, the Highlanders & Sunwolves. Furthermore, he has helped coach the Japanese national side alongside Jamie Joseph and Tony Brown from 2015 to 2018. Herring also played professionally in both New Zealand and England making notable appearances for the Highlanders & Hurricanes. Herring made a strong impression abroad when he represented the Leicester Tigers from 2007 to 2009, he was awarded the newcomer of the year in 2008 and was renowned as a turnover specialist.   In this episode of the podcast, we learn what it takes to create a successful team environment & how the soft skills of rugby build a positive culture. We dive into: The perception of public pressure and how coaches can find small wins with private success within the team environment   Understanding the importance of culture and how to win the changing room and creating an environment that is bigger than yourself   The importance of managing egos & personalities within the team environment and how to create strong values and leaders to have a positive impact on the group   How to analyse effort as a coach and seeing the bigger picture with players that struggle to commit themselves to difficult tasks   Ben’s idea around being able to still be successful defensively whilst being the smallest on the field by outwitting your opponents There is so much detail and insights in this episode. If you're a player, coach or admirer of rugby this podcast gives you everything from tactics in the jackal & tackle and also awareness around being more empathic as a coach. Understanding that culture and leadership are the basis for building a successful rugby team.  Don’t forget to check out Revolution Rugby with more content that will help any coach and player at all levels.   

Rachel Vickery is an elite breathing and high-performance strategist. She has been a part of some of the top sporting organisations, including the Golden State Warriors, PGA Golf, Sydney Roosters and currently working with the Melbourne Storm.  From her time with these teams, she has been labelled as ‘The Athlete Whisperer’. Rachels interest in elite sports has stemmed from her time as an international gymnast on the New Zealand team for 6  years, competing against the world's best at the Commonwealth Games and the World Championships.  Rachel shares her extensive knowledge of breathing and has helped many teams and individuals reach full physical, mental and emotional capacity when under high stake environments. Throughout this episode we dive into:   Rachels experience with the NBA Golden State Warriors team and how high-performance coaches from Australia and New Zealand are making a name for themselves on the world stage   Understanding how improving your breathing will give you a performance edge and help you execute when it counts under pressure   Rachel’s idea about magic happening outside your comfort zone and how your body needs to be comfortable being uncomfortable   Breaking down stereotypical trends about body posture and how to keep your technique and fluidity it tact while in big moments   How to intentionally set yourself up for success with mental tips and tricks that regain your composure, focus and mental clarity   If your someone who struggles in high-pressure environments or wants to execute in clutch moments then this podcast has everything you need to learn the tips and tricks to train yourself, physically, mentally and emotionally for high performance.

Josevata Taliga "Joe" Rokocoko is a professional New Zealand rugby union player. Rokocoko is one of the top ten try scorers of all time in International Test Rugby. Rokocoko played 96 matches for the Auckland Blues and 69 first class test matches for the All Blacks before moving to France where he played 98 matches for Bayonne and 87 matches for Racing 92 retiring in 2019.    Rokocoko right now is a skills development consultant for the team at Racing 92. To keep up with Joe and what’s he doing now you can follow and find Joe on Instagram @jrokocoko and on Twitter @J_Rokocoko. In terms of what Joes shares on this episode it’s one of our best for learning the intricacies of:    How Joe grew playing one touch in his driveway and how this style of “Fijian” rugby allowed him to see space on the pitch creatively Understanding how the man off the ball dictates move you’re going to do and it’s not one carrying the ball who is the playmaker How Mils Muliaina created safe comms so that Joe could trust his speed and the tools that a good communicator needs in your back three How to deceive players with your face and eyes while your body and your actions tell a different story and how to exploit the space in between    If you’re someone who is looking to understand the skills, communication and tactics of a world class speed merchant this is your episode. This episode is about implementing the big and little habits that Joe has used in his career to achieve some of the feats he has and putting them into your own game.  The first episode of 2021 is a hell of a listen. Get ready to learn and leverage the knowledge in this episode with Joe Rokocoko.

Robbie Deans is a New Zealand rugby union coach and former player, currently the head coach of the Panasonic Wild Knights. He was head coach of the Australian national team between 2008 and 2013. Deans had previously coached the Crusaders for eight seasons and was an assistant coach of New Zealand between late 2001 and 2003. As the coach of the Crusaders, Deans has won more Super Rugby titles than any other. As a player, Deans represented Canterbury and the All Blacks.    Deans has had one of the most decorated careers to date as a rugby coach and in this episode of the podcast, we learn what it takes to create the results he has. We dive into:    Understanding that culture is something that isn’t seen when you’re in the room with the team but what they say when you’re not in the room How Deans created the Crusaders culture of victory as back to back to back champions and how players maintained an amateur ethos to leave a legacy of victory How he made all players have one interest outside of rugby to avoid crumbling under pressure when things weren’t going right on the pitch How the Crusaders nearly didn’t make it to a semi-final in Dunedin because an over-excited bus driver lost his nerve because he was too excited and couldn’t get the players to the ground in time and how he built this type of culture across the entire Canterbury community   From management to matches this podcast had everything. If you’re a coach, player or supporter this Rugby Bricks episode is worth listening to twice. Once for the joy of it and the second for the knowledge.    Please enjoy this wide-ranging and impressive episode with none other than Robbie Deans.