Talkin' Ruggers

Henry and Alex — the two customizers — are bringing art, culture and storytelling into rugby through their unique custom boot designs. 🎨🏉 What started as a passion for rugby and creativity has grown into collaborations with professional players and major brands, creating personalised boots that tell stories far beyond what happens on the pitch. In this episode, we get into how their journey began, the process behind designing custom rugby boots, and what goes into creating something that genuinely represents an athlete’s personality, heritage and interests. We also discuss their experiences navigating university rugby, professional pathways and building a brand through content creation. From working with players like Marcus Smith to collaborating with brands such as Canterbury, Henry and Alex explain how they’re using art, social media and storytelling to create a different kind of connection between players, fans and the game. We also look at the future of rugby culture, sports marketing and how creativity could help rugby reach new audiences. 🎨

Amy Humphries, better known as Rugby With Amy, has gone from playing the game to building a career around making rugby entertaining online. 🏉 After discovering rugby through grassroots sport, Amy’s playing career was eventually disrupted by concussion — but rather than stepping away from the game, she found a new way to stay involved through content creation. In this episode, we chat about the evolution of rugby on social media, why personality and authenticity are becoming more important than polished production, and how finding a niche can help creators stand out. We also get into building communities, growing personal brands, collaborating with players and clubs, and the opportunities social media can create for rugby. Amy shares plenty of practical advice for anyone looking to start creating content, from overcoming the fear of putting yourself out there to simply being consistent and asking for opportunities. 📱 A conversation about rugby, content creation, women’s rugby, personal branding, community and where the game goes next.

Scott Smith has spent his career designing products for some of the biggest names in sport, including Nike, ASICS, and Canterbury . Now, he’s bringing everything he’s learned into his own venture: Code 15 — a rugby lifestyle brand built on heritage, quality, and storytelling. In this episode, Scott shares his journey from rugby player to product innovator, reflecting on how the game has shaped his career both on and off the pitch. We dive into what goes into creating world-class sports apparel, the influence of rugby culture on product design, and the lessons he learned working with some of the biggest brands in the industry. We also explore the vision behind Code 15, the importance of authenticity and exclusivity in rugby branding, sustainable product design, and where Scott believes the future of rugby fashion is heading. If you’ve ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of the world’s biggest rugby brands, this is the episode for you.

Darian Ducci is the creator behind Bok On Tour and Off The Pitch , two platforms helping rugby reach new audiences through storytelling, social media, and behind-the-scenes content. In this episode, Darian shares his rugby journey from South Africa to the UK , discussing the influence of coaching, school rugby, and the culture that makes South African rugby so unique. We explore how he built his platforms, the challenges of creating rugby content, and why passion and consistency are essential for anyone looking to grow an audience. We also dive into player access, media restrictions, the role of social media in modern rugby, and why better storytelling could be one of the keys to growing the game globally. Along the way, Darian gives fascinating insights into South African rugby culture and how content creators can help rugby connect with a new generation of fans.

Dylan Kay is the founder of Kick IQ , a rugby kicking coach and content creator helping players better understand one of the most important — and misunderstood — skills in the game. In this episode, we dive into Dylan’s journey from rugby player to specialist coach, how he built Kick IQ through content creation, and why enjoying the game is still the foundation of long-term success. We also get into the technical side of goal kicking, discussing different kicking styles, common mistakes, mental approaches under pressure, and the practical adjustments players can make to improve their accuracy and consistency. Whether you’re a goal kicker, coach, or rugby fan, this episode is packed with insights to help you see the game differently.

Charlie Powell is a rugby player and content creator who has taken his career across the UK, Australia, and New Zealand , gaining a unique perspective on the global game. In this episode, we break down his journey through different rugby systems, the differences between Premiership and Championship rugby , and what sets cultures like New Zealand apart. Charlie shares insights on rugby pathways, mentality, and skill development , as well as the importance of enjoying the process and controlling what you can. We also dive into how he’s documenting his journey through content creation , why personality matters more than ever in modern rugby, and how players can use their platform to grow within the game.

Alex Pearce, founder of P Sports , has been around rugby since a young age — but his journey into the industry took a very different route. From reselling vintage clothing to building a brand through social media and rugby content , Alex has grown one of the most recognisable pages in the space. In this episode, we break down how he built his platform, why authenticity and personality drive growth, and what actually works on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. We also get into personal branding, sports marketing , and how rugby can use content and “star power” to reach new audiences.

Follow Harrison here - https://www.instagram.com/harrisontrains/ Harrison Trains is a rugby coach and grassroots advocate on a mission to improve grassroots rugby from the ground up. In this episode, we dive into simple, effective ways to level up your game — from rugby training tips and nutrition advice to building better habits that actually translate onto the pitch. Harrison shares his approach to rugby coaching , why overcomplicating things is holding players back, and how focusing on the basics can drive real rugby development . We also explore the importance of player retention , strong rugby community environments, and how coaches can create cultures that keep people in the game long-term. On top of that, we get into how Harrison has built his presence through social media rugby content , using it to educate, grow his brand, and reach more players than ever before. If you’re a player, coach, or just someone who cares about the future of rugby culture , this episode is packed with practical insights you can actually use.

Follow Finlay here... https://www.instagram.com/finlay_reith?igsh=cnV6dG05emhraW9t Finlay Reith went from casual rugby fan to full-time content creator in the professional game. In this episode, we unpack his journey into rugby media, his transition from university to working at RugbyPass , and what really goes into building engaging rugby content today. Finlay shares insights into player access, content strategy, and why social media is now essential for growing the sport. We also discuss the importance of community, why players need to embrace their platforms, and how rugby can expand its reach through smarter, digital-first thinking. A conversation about media, momentum, and pushing rugby forward.

JOIN MY SIX NATIONS FANTASY LEAGUE - https://fantasy.sixnationsrugby.com/m6n/#welcome/register?sponsor_player_code=o5zymrc&league_id=187372 Rugby has always been more than just a game for Robbie Gillette. Growing up in South Africa, he was immersed in one of the most intense and iconic rugby cultures in the world — where schoolboy rugby, family influence, and larger-than-life role models shape players long before they step onto a senior pitch. In this episode, we chat about Robbie’s journey from South African rugby environments to becoming a respected content creator in the global rugby space. We dive into how storytelling and authenticity have helped him build trust with his audience, why consistency is everything when it comes to content, and how engaging with the rugby community has been central to his growth. We also discuss the unmatched atmosphere of South African schoolboy rugby, the role of content creators in preserving and sharing rugby culture, and why the future of the game depends on embracing digital media, innovation, and the voices growing the sport beyond the pitch.

In this episode, we sit down with Josef Weber — rugby influencer and strength & conditioning coach — to unpack his journey from a shy young lad finding his feet in the game to becoming a recognised voice in modern rugby culture. Josef opens up about his early experiences with rugby, the pressures that come with performance expectations, and the mental health challenges that often sit behind both elite sport and social media. We talk about the balancing act of being present online while still enjoying the game for what it is, and why authenticity matters more than ever in a world driven by numbers, algorithms, and opinions. The conversation dives into how social media has changed the way rugby is consumed, the creative process behind building engaging content, and how to handle online criticism without letting it define you. Josef also shares his thoughts on the future of rugby, why enjoyment is at the heart of performance, and how digital platforms can be used to grow the game — rather than distract from it. A powerful listen for players, coaches, creators, and anyone navigating rugby in the social media age.

Luca Feser is the founder of CURVA , a new rugby gym app designed to give players tailored, position-specific training in a sport that’s too often stuck in one-size-fits-all thinking. Coming from a corporate tech background, Luca has brought structure, data, and a fresh mindset into rugby — without losing sight of what actually makes better players. In this episode, we talk about why rugby has developed a toxic obsession with size , how holistic athlete development (physical, mental, and technical) is key to long-term performance, and why structure in training actually creates freedom and creativity on the field . Luca breaks down how CURVA allows players to log sessions, track progress, and stay connected with coaches, while also sharing why mental health and psychology deserve far more attention in rugby environments. We also dive into how technology and data analytics can improve both performance and fan engagement, why rugby already has an incredible product that’s poorly marketed, and how passion and persistence are essential when trying to move the game forward. A must-listen for players, coaches, and anyone interested in where rugby is heading next.

Tiarnan Neville — better known as The Rugby T — has one of the most international rugby journeys you’ll come across. Growing up playing rugby in Hong Kong , before moving through Ireland, England, and Canada , Tiarnan has experienced the game across multiple cultures, systems, and levels — all while chasing the ultimate goal of earning a professional contract. In this episode, Tiarnan breaks down how his upbringing in Hong Kong shaped his approach to the game, the realities of transitioning into UK university rugby, and what the current rugby landscape looks like in Canada. We talk openly about the pressures of playing fly-half , dealing with injuries, and the role good coaching and strong community play in developing players at every level. We also dive into how Tiarnan has used social media to build a personal brand alongside his playing career — sharing the positives, the challenges, and the realities of putting yourself out there in modern rugby. From online criticism to creating opportunities through content, this episode gives a real insight into how the game is evolving both on and off the field. If you’re interested in playing rugby around the world, building a personal brand as a player, or understanding where the modern game is heading, this one’s well worth a listen.

Old Novo is one of the freshest names in the ever-growing rugby fashion industry. Matt Dehaty, the founder, quit his job at Gymshark and drew on his experience as Global Product Manager for Nike Rugby to launch a brand for fans who want something a little more stylish than a replica match jersey on game day. In this episode, we get into how growing up in the sporting hotspot of the North East shaped his career, how to break into the sports industry, and how the game of rugby can be elevated both on and off the field. Matt’s journey — and the Old Novo brand — is rooted in connection and community. What began as an idea to bring ex-players together through a lifestyle brand has grown into something much bigger: a movement built on authenticity, brotherhood, and the shared identity that makes rugby special. With his marketing background and deep understanding of rugby culture, Matt has shaped Old Novo into a brand modern fans actually want to wear, blending tradition with fresh innovation. We dive into how Matt transitioned from player to brand-builder, why authenticity sits at the heart of great branding, and how rugby has the potential to evolve into a full lifestyle sport. We explore community engagement, how audience behaviour drives product development, and why passion and energy are non-negotiables in sports marketing. We also talk about the challenge — and opportunity — of evolving rugby apparel for a new generation while staying true to the culture that built the game.

If you’ve watched a rugby highlight compilation on YouTube in the last decade, chances are it came from Andrew Forde — but if you walked past him in the street, you’d never know it. Andrew has amassed hundreds of millions of views across his channel without ever stepping in front of the camera, shaping how fans experience the game through cinematic editing, storytelling, and world-class highlight reels. Andrew didn’t follow the traditional rugby media route. He started making highlight mixes as a passion project, teaching himself editing from scratch and slowly building a channel that became the go-to spot for rugby comps online. In this episode, we chat about how Andrew built one of the biggest rugby channels on the internet, how he researches, organises, and archives the game to create his professional-level compilations, and what it really takes to grow on YouTube in a sport where copyright is a constant battle. We also talk about how the rugby community can benefit from more accessible and engaging content, why consistency and fan engagement matter, how video games could help rugby reach a wider audience, and why promoting the sport beyond the pitch is essential for its growth. Follow Andrew on Instagram 👉 @andrew_forde Watch his YouTube channel 👉 Andrew Forde

Ever wondered how a pro rugby player turns early retirement into one of the biggest online rugby coaching brands in the world? Ben John (aka @therugbytrainer) shows us how it’s done. ⚡ Ben John — better known as The Rugby Trainer — grew up playing rugby in Wales during their golden generation. His love for all sports became his point of difference on the field — helping him rise through the Welsh age-grade system and eventually earn a spot with the Ospreys , one of Wales’ top professional rugby teams. 🏉 Repeated injuries and concussions forced him to retire earlier than expected… but this was only the beginning of his rugby journey. ⚡ After stepping away from the game to work as a personal trainer in London , Ben spotted a gap in the market during lockdown for high-quality online rugby coaching and practical rugby training tips — and, just like on the field, he took it. 💻 What makes Ben’s rugby coaching brand unique today is how he blends elite rugby playing experience with simple, practical coaching that players at every level can use to improve their rugby skills, fitness, and game performance . That approach has taken him from filming home rugby training sessions to working with some of the biggest teams and best players in international rugby . 🌍 In this episode, we chat about Ben’s journey from professional rugby player to rugby content creator , how he built one of the most recognisable online rugby coaching brands , and the systems he uses to help players develop their rugby skills and level up their game. 🎥 OJ and The Rugby Trainer dive into how rugby coaching is evolving in the digital age — from Ben’s transition from player to coach, to how playing multiple sports shaped his rugby IQ, and how injuries challenges reshaped his career path. They also discuss the importance of sports psychology , finding genuine passion in your work, and building a rugby coaching brand that balances purpose, structure, and creativity. 💡 Ben shares his proudest coaching achievements , lessons learned working with players at all levels, and strategies behind his social media growth for rugby coaching . The conversation highlights the evolving rugby community and why connection, communication, and belonging are more important than ever for the sport. 🏆 Follow Ben on Instagram 👉 @therugbytrainer 👈

“He’s been to the rugby corners of the world most people don’t even know exist.” 🌍🏉 If there’s rugby being played in some remote village halfway around the world, you can bet that Max Courtis has already found it, been there, and filmed a documentary about it... Drawing on his experience playing for Exeter University and representing England Students , Max first used rugby as a way to travel — chasing new playing opportunities and connections overseas. What started as a passion for the game soon evolved into a mission to tell the stories of rugby’s hidden communities across the globe. There’s no corner of the rugby world safe from CurtsCode’s expeditions — from the classic UK-to-Australia gap-year route to the more unexpected rugby outposts in India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Driven by pure curiosity and a love for storytelling, Max has made it his mission to show that rugby connects people everywhere — no matter the language, location, or level. In this episode, Max reveals how he uncovers hidden rugby stories, his creative process behind filming and presenting, and his advice for creators looking to make their mark in the rugby space. 🎥✈️ Check out Max on Instagram 👉 @curtscode

Jake Colley-Davies — better known as Caradoc Conditioning — is one of the original and biggest online rugby strength & conditioning coaches. 💪 After completing his studies at Cardiff Metropolitan University, rather than the conventional route to full-time employment, Jake pioneered a path from the fitness industry into the rugby community, a transition that’s since inspired countless other coaches to follow. In this episode, we chat about how grassroots rugby is benefiting from the rise of accessible S&C knowledge, and how Jake has been leading the charge in sharing high-quality coaching insight for free online. We dive into the details of the social media skills and strategy that he has developed along the way and have built a following of over 100,000 which he has leveraged to create a thriving rugby performance business. Jake is doing great things for rugby through helping players everywhere get stronger, faster, and fitter, ultimately helping people enjoy the game more. 🏉 You can find more information on the Caradoc Conditioning coaching services on... Instagram 👉 @caradoc_conditioning Or his website 👉 caradocconditioning.com

Jack Wiles is the founder of RB Club (formerly Rugby Buckets) — a rugby lifestyle brand bringing something fresh to the game. But Jack didn’t take the most traditional route into the rugby industry… In this episode, we chat about the parallels between army and rugby culture, how he’s used lessons from his past to build his brand, and his mission to create the coolest brand in rugby! 🏉 Rugby is built on history and tradition — and while those values make the game what it is, they might also be what’s holding it back from growing… or worse, surviving. It’s people like Jack who are keeping the game alive through their modern approach — filling a gap in the market with something genuinely cool. Maybe even the coolest brand in rugby. 😎 Fancy some new garms for your next game day? Check out @_rbclub 👕

🤯 Will Owen from Squidge Rugby lifts the lid on how two brothers turned their rugby obsession into one of YouTube’s biggest rugby channels... Will Owen is one half of the iconic YouTube rugby duo — Squidge Rugby! 🏉 Arguably the original rugby content creators, the brothers first began posting videos about their beloved Ospreys back in 2018. Since then, they’ve used their deep rugby knowledge and sharp humour to produce over 400 videos and build an audience of more than 250,000 subscribers on YouTube! 🤯 Widely regarded as two of the brightest rugby minds in the game, they’ve helped fans see rugby through a new analytical — and often hilarious — lens. In this episode, we dive into the origins of their rugby story, explore the often-overlooked challenges of being a YouTube creator, and of course, put the rugby world to rights… This was a fascinating chat with an incredibly insightful and dedicated rugby nerd — we hope you enjoy it as much as we did! 🎙️ Find Will on Instagram 👉 @will_owen9 And, of course, check out the legendary YouTube channel 👉 Squidge Rugby