What a Lad

Jaksot

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  Sean Maitland- What a Lad 16.09.2026 1t 26min

  I know everyone will remember Sean Maitlands beautiful stride as he galloped down the field, what an athlete and what a journey he has had! From growing up in Tokoroa, to playing for the British and Irish Lions and everything in between!In this episode of What a Lad, Sean opens up about his career for the first time on a podcast and he did not disappoint, some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…- Growing up in Tokoroa alongside Quade Cooper and Isaac John- Playing for Waikato at just 17 while still at school- Walking into a Crusaders changing room full of his childhood idols- His experience during the devastating 2011 Christchurch earthquake- Missing out on the All Blacks and making the decision to head overseas- How quickly everything happened after joining Glasgow and Scotland- Being selected for the British & Irish Lions after only a handful of Tests- The incredible culture and team trips behind Saracens' success- Knowing when it was finally time to call time on his careerAnd heaps more!As you'll hear, Sean is an absolute lad who has experienced just about everything the game has to offer, he's played with almost every rugby legend alive and there are some incredible stories in this one. Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The Greatest Rivalry Test 4 Review Ft Searley 14.09.2026 49min

  Well that's the Greatest Rivalry tour all done and dusted and it was a tour that lived up to the hype. This tour had high expectations but after producing 4 incredible tests full with intensity, quality rugby and of course some controversy, everything about this series was a success.South Africa proved why they are the number 1 side in the world claiming the series 3–1, so where does that leave the All Blacks heading towards the Rugby World Cup?For this episode I'm joined by Searley as we cover:How the Springboks won the final TestWhat areas of the game cost the All Blacks in this oneWe look at the controversial refereeing decisions that shaped the gameWhy South Africa’s cohesion is such a major advantageThe All Blacks who raised their stocks during the tourThe positions still up for grabs ahead of the World CupThe players who are to return to the All Blacks and where they fitSouth Africa’s best performers and stock risers, including Malcolm Marx and Morné van den BergAnd heaps moreSouth Africa have confirmed themselves as the best team in the world — but after using 49 players on tour, there are still plenty of reasons for New Zealand fans to feel optimistic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The Greatest Rivalry Preview TEST 4 Ft Searley 10.09.2026 45min

  The final Test of the Greatest Rivalry Tour is here, with the All Blacks and Springboks heading to Baltimore for one last showdown!South Africa lead the series 2-1 after two huge wins at home, but what's install for this one!?Searley is back to break down everything ahead of the final Test, including Richie Mo’unga’s return to the No.10 jersey, Ethan Blackadder’s massive opportunity, the battle at scrum time and whether the All Blacks can find a way to nullify the Springboks’ biggest strengths.We also look at South Africa naming another incredibly strong side, what playing in Baltimore could mean for the game, the importance of the bench, and why this could almost feel like a preview of a potential World Cup quarter-final.Can the All Blacks level the series in Baltimore, or will the Springboks finish the tour with three straight wins?Let me know your prediction in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The Greatest Rivalry Test 3 Review Ft Bryn Hall 07.09.2026 38min

  The All Blacks vs Springboks Greatest Rivalry Tour continues to deliver, with another massive Test match that had everything!Bryn Hall joins me to break down the third Test, where the All Blacks produced some outstanding rugby early before the Springboks once again showed why they’re the best in the world, using their set-piece in particular their scrum to take control of the match.We also dive into Jordie Barrett’s incredible form, the impact of losing Ardie Savea, the controversial yellow card, South Africa’s scrum dominance, Jessie Kriels form and Man of the Match Ethan Hooker.We also look ahead to the final Test in Baltimore. Will Richie Mo’unga get his opportunity? How will the All Blacks replace their injured stars? And can New Zealand level the series 2-2, or will the Springboks finish it off 3-1?Let me know what stood out for you in this test match in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The Greatest Rivalry Preview TEST 3 Ft Bryn Hall 03.09.2026 42min

  The Greatest Rivalry Tour is all square at 1-1 and Test Three is set to be massive!Bryn Hall joins me to break down where the All Blacks can improve, the Springboks’ set-piece dominance, the kicking battle, scrum tactics and the key selections ahead of another huge Test in South Africa.We also look at Cheslin Kolbe’s move to fullback, Cam Roigard’s influence, Asafa Aumua getting his opportunity to start and finish with our score and man of the match predictions.Who do you think is going to win this one? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Dr Kerry Spackman- What a Lad 02.09.2026 59min

  Dr Kerry Spackman has spent decades studying one fascinating question — what separates the very best from everyone else? As a cognitive neuroscientist and high-performance consultant, Kerry has worked with Formula One legends, Olympians, key All Blacks and some of the world's highest performers, helping them understand how the brain works and how to perform when it matters most.In this episode of What a Lad, Kerry shares some incredible insights from his career. From working with three-time Formula One World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart and discovering his relentless attention to detail, to seeing firsthand the work ethic and mindset required to become a world champion.Kerry also breaks down the science behind elite performance — why athletes choke under pressure, how the best performers see things others don't, why being the best youngster doesn't guarantee future success, and how our emotions and experiences can shape the way we think and behave.Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…Working with Sir Jackie Stewart and discovering what made him so differentThe incredible work ethic Kerry has witnessed from world championsWhy some Wimbledon champions can predict where a serve is going before the ball is even hitWhy thinking too much under pressure can actually make you perform worseWhy being the best athlete at 16 doesn't mean you'll become the best as an adultThe mentality behind Hamish Bond and Eric Murray's incredible successWhy there are no shortcuts when it comes to becoming world-classHow confidence can be built just like a muscleHow emotional experiences from our past can continue to influence us years laterWhy Kerry believes we have a far greater ability to change ourselves than we realiseThis is one of those episodes that will make you think differently about performance, confidence and what we're actually capable of. Whether you're an athlete, coach, business owner or simply someone wanting to improve, there's plenty of gold in this one.If you enjoy hearing how some of the world's best think and what we can learn from them, you'll love this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The Greatest Rivalry Test 2 Preview Ft Jeff McTainsh 26.08.2026 42min

  Episode 3 of The What a Lad Greatest Rivalry series, reviewing the All Blacks’ thrilling midweek clash against the Lions and previewing a massive second Test against the Springboks in Cape Town!For this episode, I’m joined by the great Jeff McTainsh, who has been calling the action throughout the tour and joins me directly from South Africa to share his insight into the games and the incredible atmosphere surrounding this rivalry.We break down how the All Blacks recovered from a 14-0 deficit against the Lions, including Ethan Blackadder’s enormous performance, Timoci Tavatavanawai’s impact, Emoni Narawa’s footwork and Rieko Ioane looking back to his explosive best.We also discuss the challenges of preparing a midweek All Blacks side, which players have pushed their case for Test selection and the big decisions facing Dave Rennie ahead of Cape Town.Then we preview Test 2, looking at the aerial battle, the importance of winning collisions and how the All Blacks can disrupt the Springboks’ structured game. The All Blacks are 1-0 up, but with Handre Pollard and Siya Kolisi returning to the Springboks can they inspire a win to keep their series hopes alive, Cape Town is set up to be an absolute classic!Can the All Blacks go 2-0 up, or will the Springboks fight their way back into the series?Let me know your thoughts in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The Greatest Rivalry Test 1 Review Ft Searley 23.08.2026 43min

  Episode 2 of The What a Lad Greatest Rivalry series, reviewing an incredible opening Test between the All Blacks and Springboks at Ellis Park!For this episode, I’m joined again by the great Searley from Searley Talks Sport as we break down how the All Blacks managed to come away with a huge 33-16 win, despite the Springboks dominating large parts of the first half.We look at the massive moments that swung the Test, including the All Blacks bench front row completely changing the scrum battle, Fabian Holland’s charge down, Jordie Barrett’s incredible defensive effort, Will Jordan’s Man of the Match performance and Cam Roigard’s game management under pressure.We also discuss just how impressive Cheslin Kolbe and Jasper Wiese were for the Springboks, the refereeing and TMO decisions, Rassie Erasmus’ reaction to the loss and what both sides will need to change heading into Test 2.The All Blacks have drawn first blood, but with the Springboks now needing to win the remaining three Tests to take the series, this Greatest Rivalry Tour has been set up perfectly!Can the All Blacks go 2-0 up in Cape Town, or will the Springboks bounce back?Let me know your thoughts in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The Greatest Rivalry Test 1 Preview Ft Tamati Ellision & Searley 21.08.2026 54min

  Episode 1 of The What a Lad Greatest Rivalry preview show where we preview all you need to know about the test between the All Blacks and the Springboks this weekend!For this episode we get an insight from inside the All Black camp with All Black assistant coach Tamati Ellison as well as the usual insight from the great Searley from Searley talks sport as we look back on the tour so far as well as preview the first Test! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Uilisi Halaholo- What a Lad 19.08.2026 1t 42min

  Uilisi Halaholo has a story so good it was one of the reasons I started this podcast. A naturally gifted player from a young age, who was heading down the wrong path to make the most of his talent. Caught up in the wrong lifestyle, drinking and getting into trouble on a regular basis.A turning point came when he became a young father ultimately forced him to change direction. He put down the bottle, transformed himself physically and decided to give rugby a genuine crack. That decision started a journey that would take him from fighting for an opportunity with the Southland Stags, to the Hurricanes, winning a Super Rugby title, moving across the world to Cardiff and eventually representing Wales.But reaching the top didn't mean the challenges stopped. Willis opens up about the criticism he received for representing Wales, devastating injuries, missing the opportunity to play against the All Blacks, losing a close family member, financial uncertainty and one of the darkest periods of his career.Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…What his life as a teenager was like! Why having his daughter changed his mindset.Why the move to Southland was the best thing for himWhy he chose a contract with the Hurricanes over other offersHow he ended up on a Wider Squad contract in 2016 the year he started in the final!The decision to move to CardiffThe brutal run of injuries and juggling being a father to 5 girls How all of those highs and lows shaped the person he is todayAs you’ll hear Uilisi is a lad! His story is an incredible example of how much can change when you decide to take control of your life. Plenty of laughs in this one, but also some incredibly raw and powerful moments.As always, if you enjoy the episode please give it a like, subscribe to the channel and share it with a mate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Daniel Kirkpatrick- What a Lad 12.08.2026 1t 6min

  Dan Kirkpatrick was an age grade superstar who was starting Super Rugby with the Hurricanes at just 20 years old. He’s a guy I always remember as being just a genuine good guy and he’s had a hell of a journey both on and off the fieldIn this episode of What a Lad, Dan opens up about becoming a father at just 19 and the challenges of balancing that with professional rugby, why he decided to leave New Zealand at 23 despite still having an All Blacks dream, and the serious injuries that eventually contributed to the end of his career.Some parts that stood out for me were…- What growing up looked like for him to be school boy star- Becoming a dad at 19 while trying to establish himself in professional rugby- what it was like at the Hurricanes as a young 10- More about his decision to leave for France - How he felt walking away from his All Blacks dream- Winning the Top 14 with Castres as massive underdogs- The concussion and neck injury that impacted the back end of his career- His transition out of rugby and into business- Building @hiit_crew_auckland and a new community after rugby.And heaps more! Dan’s another great example of how everyone’s journey is different and how important it is to enjoy the path you take and tackle whatever challenges come at you with a positive mindset. I really enjoyed this one and I’m sure you will too! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Kurt Eklund - What a Lad 05.08.2026 1t 18min

  Kurt Eklund has one of the most unique journeys in New Zealand rugby. A Super Rugby champion, Māori All Blacks captain and one of the most respected hookers in the country, Kurt's path to the top was anything but conventional.He spent eight years working as a builder, and admits he never thought professional rugby was a realistic goal. After only starting two games for Auckland across four seasons, a devastating knee injury left him ready to walk away from rugby altogether. But after losing his mum to breast cancer, everything changed. Determined to make her proud, Kurt found a new purpose, reignited his love for the game, and eventually made his Super Rugby debut for the Blues at the age of 28.Some other parts that stood out for me in this episode were…- Why he never believed a professional rugby career was possible- How losing his mum completely changed his outlook on rugby and life- The story behind making and captaining the Māori All Blacks- Winning Super Rugby with the Blues after years of grinding away- Why he's heading to Japan and the next chapter for his young family- His passion for fishing, protecting New Zealand's oceans and life beyond rugby- Plenty more hilarious stories Kurt is one of the most genuine people you'll come across. Humble, funny and incredibly self-aware, his story is a reminder that success doesn't always come early and that everyone's journey looks different. He truely is one of the great lads in NZ rugby! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Antonio Shalfoon- What a Lad 29.07.2026 1t 34min

  Antonio Shalfoon is someone who is a very different person off the field than he may seem on it. Known as a bit of a grub on the field, off the field he is one of the greats and his journey to professional rugby is as inspiring as any. To start he wasn't offered his first full Super Rugby contract until the age of 26 after years of grinding away in club rugby, moving provinces to chase opportunities, and overcoming setbacks that would have made most people give up. Add to that Antonio opens up about the frightening story of being diagnosed with myocarditis, where he was told he may never play the game again. Some other parts that stood out for me in this episode were…- Hearing about the time he had a fight with a kids dad while playing Cricket- Why he got punched in the head in his first Waikato training- The scary heart condition that nearly ended his rugby career- His pathway into the Crusaders and what kept him going- His selection into the Maori All Blacks and what that mean for him- Why he's signed in Japan for next seasonAnd plenty more great yarns.Antonio is exactly the type of person you want around a rugby team. He's funny, authentic, incredibly resilient and proof that there is no single pathway to achieving your goals. This was an awesome conversation and one I know you'll enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Jeremy Eparaima - Change is Possible 22.07.2026 1t 7min

  Jeremy's story is one of the most powerful we've ever shared on What a Lad.Growing up in an abusive household, Jeremy experienced years of physical violence. Carrying that trauma into adulthood, he eventually became the very person he never wanted to be, repeating the cycle of violence he had witnessed as a child.In this incredibly honest conversation, Jeremy opens up about the darkest moments of his life, the roleplay that completely changed his perspective, and the counsellor who helped him confront his past for the first time. Today, he dedicates his life to helping others break the same cycle, working with men, families, organisations, and New Zealand Police to create lasting change.Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…- Growing up surrounded by physical abuse and violence.- His experience of sexual abuse at boarding school.- How childhood trauma shaped his behaviour as an adult.- The moment he realised he had become everything he hated.- The roleplay exercise that changed his life forever.- How he turned his lived experience into helping thousands of others across New Zealand.- His advice for families supporting someone struggling with anger and violence.This is one of the most courageous and important conversations we've ever had on the podcast. Jeremy's willingness to share both the harm he experienced and the harm he caused takes an incredible amount of honesty, and I have no doubt his story will help people better understand trauma, accountability, and the fact that real change is possible.If you’re struggling with anger or worried about your behaviour, find support near you and take the first step. Changeispossible.org.nz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Daniel Hobbs- Change is Possible 15.07.2026 1t 1min

  Daniel Hobbs may not be a household name in New Zealand sport, but his story is one of the most powerful we've ever shared on What a Lad.Known throughout Tasman rugby as a respected strength and conditioning coach, Daniel opens up about the horrific abuse he endured growing up at the hands of his stepfather. From living in constant fear, to enduring years of physical and emotional abuse, to the heartbreaking moment he nearly took his own life at just nine years old, this is a story of incredible resilience.Daniel shares how he overcame the lasting effects of childhood abuse, the PTSD that still impacts him today, and why he made a conscious decision to become the kind of man and father he never hadSome parts that stood out for me in this episode were…- Growing up in a household filled with fear, violence and control.- The unimaginable abuse he, his mum and sister endured for years.- The moment he nearly took his own life at just nine years old.- The long-term effects of PTSD and childhood trauma.- Discovering the truth about his biological father later in life.- Why he's most proud of breaking the cycle of abuse.- His advice for anyone currently going through a difficult time.This is one of the bravest conversations we've ever had on the podcast. Daniel's willingness to share his story is an incredible act of courage, and I have no doubt it will help people who are facing similar struggles or know someone who i Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Lukhan Salakaia-Loto - What a Lad 08.07.2026 1t 7min

  Lukhan Salakaia-Loto has one of the most remarkable stories in Australian rugby. He didn't even start playing rugby union until Year 12, yet just a few years later he was making his Super Rugby debut before earning his first Wallabies cap against the Springboks.In this episode of What a Lad, Lukhan opens up about the journey that shaped him. From missing representative teams as a teenager and using rejection as motivation, to becoming one of Australia's most respected forwards, playing for the Reds, Northampton Saints, the Rebels, the Barbarians and the Wallabies.He also shares his thoughts on missing this year's Wallabies squad despite making the Super Rugby Team of the Year, why he's at peace with the decision, and how becoming a father has completely changed his perspective on rugby and life.Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…- Starting rugby union in Year 12 after growing up playing rugby league- Missing representative teams and the conversation with his dad that changed his mindset forever- Earning his first Wallabies cap only a year after his Super Rugby debut- The influence Brad Thorn had on his career and development- His experiences playing for Northampton Saints, the Rebels, the Barbarians and against the British & Irish Lions- Why family now comes before rugby and what he hopes his kids remember about himLukhan is one of the genuine good guys in rugby. Honest, humble and incredibly resilient, this conversation gives a great insight into the mindset behind one of Australia's best forwards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Ben Volavola- What a Lad 01.07.2026 1t 15min

  Ben Volavola has one of the most unique careers in world rugby. Across a 13-year professional journey, he's played for the Waratahs, Crusaders, North Harbour, Canterbury, Rebels, Racing 92, Bordeaux, Perpignan, Agen, Leicester Tigers, Queensland Reds and now returns home to join the Fijian Drua.A two-time Rugby World Cup representative and one of Fiji's most experienced first fives, Ben has experienced the highs of winning Super Rugby and the lows of missing a Rugby World Cup squad. Throughout it all, he's built a reputation as one of rugby's ultimate professionals and a respected teammate wherever he's played.Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…- Why rugby was the only plan he ever had growing up- The decision to represent Fiji after coming through the Australian pathway- What he learned from the Crusaders culture and why the best cultures win championships- The heartbreak of missing Fiji's 2023 Rugby World Cup squad and how he found motivation again- Playing alongside stars like Israel Folau & Richie Mo'unga- Why he's returning home to join the Fijian Drua and help build the future of Fijian rugby- The lessons he's taken from playing professionally across Australia, New Zealand, France and EnglandBen has experienced almost every corner of professional rugby, but what stood out most was his humility, gratitude and perspective. This is a fascinating conversation about resilience, culture, leadership and what it really takes to build a long career in professional sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Super Rugby Review + All Black naming reaction 24.06.2026 58min

  The 2026 Super Rugby season is officially done and what a finish it was. The Hurricanes capped off a remarkable campaign with a dominant 60-5 victory in the final, producing one of the most complete performances we've seen in Super Rugby history.In this episode, we break down the final, review some of our preseason predictions, discuss the standout performers from the year and look at what made the Hurricanes such a dominant force throughout the competition.We also dive into Dave Rennie's first All Blacks squad, discussing the bolters, unlucky omissions, selection surprises and what the squad tells us about how the All Blacks will look to play moving forward.Some of the topics discussed include...- We breakdown what we thought were the keys to the Hurricanes success- The players who stood out throughout the season- Who had the best predictions from the preseason epiosde- The biggest talking points from Dave Rennie's first All Blacks squad- Which players were unlucky to miss selection- Who could become the All Blacks' best player in 2026- Predictions for the upcoming test season and South African tourAnd heaps moreWith the Super Rugby season wrapped up and a massive international season ahead, this was a great chance to reflect on the year that was and look ahead to what's shaping up as one of the biggest years for the All Blacks in recent memory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Liam Squire- Fan Favourite 17.06.2026 1t 15min

  Liam Squire was one of the most feared players in world rugby, he had an incredible ability to throw his body into contact with zero thought of self preservation. While that approach helped Liam Squire the player, it's taken a serious toll on the body of Liam Squire the man. He's had an endless amount of injuries throughout his career and is now left with serious hip pain, shoulder pain and knee pain as he moves into the next chapter of his life.In this Fan Favourite episode of What a Lad, Liam opens up about the full journey through rugby and life. From growing up in Tokoroa and finding his way into professional rugby, to becoming an All Black, dealing with injuries, stepping away from the 2019 Rugby World Cup and ultimately being forced into retirement.Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…How quickly his rise from provincial rugby to becoming an All BlackDealing with the fame of becoming an All BlackWinning a Super Rugby title with the Highlanders and the culture that made that team specialWhy he never felt completely comfortable in the All Blacks environmentThe pressure and scrutiny leading into the 2019 Rugby World CupHis battles with injury and the mental toll of spending so much time on the sidelinesBeing told by a surgeon that if he wanted quality of life later on, it was time to retireHow he has adjusted to life after rugby and what retirement has really been likeThis episode was recorded back in 2021 but this conversation shows a side of him that most people have never seen. Honest, reflective and incredibly open, this is a fascinating insight into the highs and lows of professional rugby and the price that can come with giving everything to the game. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Jayden Broome- What a Lad 10.06.2026 1t 9min

  Jayden Broome is one of the most inspiring young rugby players you'll come across. A proud Gore local who spent his childhood with a rugby ball in his hands with a dream to become a professional rugby player. He was doing everything he could to reach that dream and everything was tracking that way. He captained all Southland age grade sides before leading New Zealand Māori Schoolboys to a historic victory over New Zealand Schools and even earned a preseason opportunity with his beloved Southland Stags.Then one moment changed everything for Jayden. After falling from a roof at a flat, Jayden suffered a traumatic brain injury that left him fighting for his life. He was placed in an induced coma, spent months in hospital and was ultimately forced to make the heartbreaking decision to walk away from the game he loved.Despite everything he's been through, Jayden's outlook on life, positivity and determination to keep moving forward is what makes this episode so special.Some parts that stood out for me in this episode were…- Walking 40 minutes to school and back every day and how that shaped him- Writing down his rugby goals as a teenager and dreaming of one day becoming an All Black- Getting his opportunity with the Southland Stags and realising he was good enough to compete at that level- The night of the accident and the reality of waking up after weeks in a coma- Learning just how close he came to losing his life- Coming to terms with the fact he would never play rugby again- Why he chose life over rugby and the powerful message he now wants to share with others- What his plans are in the future and how he wants to stay in the gameThis is a story about much more than rugby. It's about resilience, perspective, gratitude and finding purpose when the path you thought you were on suddenly disappears. Jayden's maturity, positivity and self-awareness at such a young age make this one of the most powerful conversations we've had on the podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.