Marlee and Me

Lewis Brown, a true veteran of the NRL with nearly 200 games and a proud Kiwi international. Lewis's journey through professional rugby league was defined by resilience, both on and off the field, profoundly shaped by his family and Māori heritage.  He shares candidly about the significant moments in his life that impacted his perspective and personal identity, particularly during and after his impressive career with the Warriors, Panthers, and Sea Eagles. Brown successfully transitioned from a celebrated athlete to an entrepreneur, starting his clothing brand, Earls, which reflects his post-football passion for design and street culture.  His story is a powerful reflection on finding your footing and maintaining your sense of self through the highs and lows of elite sport and life beyond the game.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Olivia Kernick, is an NRLW Dally M Medalist and a dominant force for the Sydney Roosters and Jillaroos.  Olivia's rapid rise from a junior on the Central Coast to the elite level is a testament to unwavering dedication. She opens up about the immense support and values instilled by her family, which she credits as fundamental to her success.  We chat about how that strong foundation shaped her intense work ethic and deep connection to her team, making her not just a formidable player, but a true leader on the field for both club and country. It's a look at how personal identity and family grounding lead to consistent excellence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From growing up in Macksville to becoming one of the most dominant players in NRL history, Greg Inglis’ journey is one of talent, resilience, and deep cultural pride. He opens up about his roots, the challenges of moving away from home, and the values his family instilled in him. We also dive into the toughest period of his life—his struggles with mental health, addiction, and the road to recovery. Greg shares how he found purpose through the Goanna Academy and the lessons he wishes he could tell his younger self. It’s an open, powerful, and deeply personal conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jahrome Hughes has developed into one of the most composed and skillful playmakers in the game. From growing up in New Zealand to becoming a premiership-winning NRL star to being a Dally M winner—this story is worth a listen. We dive deep into the role his family and culture have played in shaping him, exploring his identity as a proud Māori man and the values instilled in him from a young age. Jahrome opens up about the challenges he’s faced along the way, the sacrifices his family made for his career, and the resilience that has defined his path to the top.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Tapine from the Canberra Raiders is a powerhouse. From growing up in Wellington to making his mark in the NRL, Joe’s journey is one of resilience and growth. He opens up about his family, the challenges of moving to Australia, and the harsh lessons he learned along the way.  Joe opens up candidly about his pokies addiction early on in his footballing career and how his wife, Kirsten guided him down the right path. We also chat about his Māori heritage, how the All Stars camp deepened his cultural connection, and how fatherhood has changed his perspective on life and footy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will Warbrick is one of the most exciting rising stars in the NRL. Hailing from New Zealand, he comes from a proud Māori background and first made his mark in rugby sevens, winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. His transition to rugby league with the Melbourne Storm has been nothing short of impressive, showcasing his athleticism, strength, and natural try-scoring ability. With a unique journey across two codes, Will brings a fresh perspective to the game and continues to grow as a key player in the NRL.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Valentine Holmes is one of the NRL’s most dynamic and versatile players. Born in Townsville with proud Cook Island heritage, he made his mark early with the Cronulla Sharks, playing a key role in their historic 2016 premiership win. Known for his speed, skill, and game-changing ability, Val has represented Queensland and Australia at the highest level. His journey also took him to the U.S., where he pursued an NFL dream before returning to the NRL with the North Queensland Cowboys. Now a leader on and off the field, he continues to inspire with his passion and dedication to the game.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marlee is joined by one of the biggest current family names in rugby league - Tom, Jake and Ben Trbojevic.  Known for their talent, toughness, and humility, the boys open up about family, culture, and the journey from playing footy in the backyard to representing their club, state, and country. It’s a chat about brotherhood, sacrifice, and what drives them both on and off the field.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At just 26 years old, Nathan Cleary already boasts three premiership titles, state and national representation, and is widely regarded as one of the best in the game. In this final episode of Marlee and Me Season 1, Nathan welcomes us into his childhood home, which he purchased from his parents a few years ago. Growing up with a father who was an NRL coach and quickly catching the attention of fans, Nathan has been in the spotlight since his teenage years. Surprisingly, he opens up more than expected in this conversation, offering a rare, candid glimpse into his life. Throughout this podcast series, it has become clear that family plays a central role in shaping the greats, and Nathan is no exception. The lessons from his parents and the deep love and responsibility he feels for his siblings provide insight into his drive to succeed. You will also hear about the unexpected emotions Nathan experienced during his recent hamstring injury and the pressures of having the country invested in his relationship with Mary Fowler. This episode was recorded on the lands of the Dharug people.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Widely regarded as one of the best to ever play the game, and recently inducted into the NRL’s Hall of Fame, Johnathan Thurston is an icon.  Famous for his 2015 grand final field goal, his uncanny ability to curve conversions from the sideline, and his infectious laugh. Today, beyond his legendary footy career, we explore his life, fatherhood, family, and finding pride in his identity as an Aboriginal man. This episode was recorded on the lands of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connor Watson, Roosters and Blues star, co-founded the nonprofit Cultural Choice Association, which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children by helping them access mental health resources. The organisation gained attention during the NRL’s Indigenous round with football boots featuring Aboriginal art. Over the years, Cultural Choice Association has made a significant impact on the younger generation, with Watson being recognised for his dedication both on and off the field. This episode was recorded on the lands of the Gadigal people.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the most exciting wingers in the NRL, the Cronulla Sharks’ Ronaldo Mulitalo has made a name for himself through his try scoring acrobatics and a passion on the field that sometimes boils over and gets under his opponents skin.  Off the field, he’s larger than life! A true extrovert that describes himself as someone who gets his energy from being around his teammates and having a good time.  But Ronny’s path to his NRL dream has been anything but smooth and easy. Growing up in South Auckland before moving with his family to Queensland for a better life, Ronny spent some of his childhood homeless and sleeping in the leaky garage of a family friend's home. There were dark times and plenty of uncertainties but it was the fearlessness and strength of his Mum which was the guiding light for Ronny and his siblings through it all.  This episode was recorded on the lands of the Dharawal people, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we sit down with Brisbane Broncos forward Jordan Riki.  Jordan’s journey from growing up in New Zealand to making his mark in the NRL is nothing short of inspiring.  We’ll dive deep into the role his family and culture have played in shaping the man he is today. We’re also lucky enough to have Jordan’s Grandfather or Koroua join us for a yarn. We also discuss the challenge Jordan faced after losing his close mate Liam Hampson. Get ready for an honest and heartfelt conversation about life, legacy, and the passion that drives Jordan both on and off the field. This episode was recorded on the lands of the Toorabul and Yuggera peoples, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kalyn Ponga, superstar fullback at the Newcastle Knights. 2023 Dally M Medalist, a sporting prodigy who, at the age of 15 was being head hunted by six clubs across three different sports. That story is the one most rugby league fans have heard of. This isn’t that story. Kalyn Ponga, the proud Maori man, the big brother, the loyal friend the proud son That’s who you’ll hear from in this episode. Sitting in his lounge room, accompanied by his beloved Aussie Shepard, Sadie. With an open heart, generosity and vulnerability, Kalyn tells me his story. This episode was recorded on the lands of the Awabakal people, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.