The Magic Academy

Season 11 Episode 24 - Andy Lockwood (Rugby Vacancies)

Thu, 07 May 2026 07:00:00 +0100

Andy Lockwood returns (last seen Season 9, Episode 11) to chat all things @rugbyvacancies and getting a job in sport. The Savannah Bananas, being as little risk as possible, using your network and barriers to entry... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 23 - Eno Mwamba (Champions League)

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0100

Eno and Rusty chat all things from Botswana to the City to chasing his dream of winning the Champions league... McKinsey's, Arsenal Community, Coach Index, the Football Banker and an 8-0 humbling... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 22 - Aaron Takel (Tactical Warfare)

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 20:00:00 +0000

No pod since 2025... Taks was getting impatient to we did one together! All things tactical warfare, problem-solving, tweaking or changing... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 21 Fletch and Danny - 2025 in review

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Fletch, Danny and Rusty share their highlights, heroes and hardships from 2025 and look ahead to 2026... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 20 Byron Green and Aaron Takel (coach development)

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Byron Green, wheelchair rugby coach and player (https://athletescan.ca/athlete-rep-spotlight-byron-green-wheelchair-rugby/) gets paid a visit from Taks at his provincial training camp and we chat all things coach development... geological formations, the funnel, the Head-Smashed-in-Buffalo Jump world heritage site, levels of communication and earning trust... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 19 - Gerard Jones (Cambodia)

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Gerard and Rusty chat about his journey to coaching in the Cambodian Premier League... learning something from everyone, the reality of micropolitics and real politics, cultural differences, ST and LT thinking, presence and storytelling... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 18 Graeme Moffat - Lethbridge

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Moff and Rusty chat all things Gamechangers conference... brain skills, talent ID, injuries, river swims, building a den and indoor rondos... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 17 - Aaron Takel (Developing Craft)

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 19:00:00 +0100

Taks and Rusty catch up for the 3rd time to chat all things Vancouver Island, noticing skills, the Air Canada strike, headband levels, conviction and action, triangles, the Fork of Power and noticing... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 16 - Kenny Lynn (Argentina)

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0100

Kenny and Rusty chat all things staff football, experimenting, coaching attack and learning Spanish... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 15 Peter Train (Pleasure and Happiness in Education)

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Pete's doctorate (https://phecanada.ca/professional-learning/journal/pleasure-and-happiness-education-alternative-form-phe-peter-train) leads to a discussion with Rusty about teacher's experimenting, having a more open framework, attention, taking the ego away, sensible lunatics, astonishing yourself and the museum of values... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 14 Jeremy Holt (For the Love of the Game)

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0100

Jeremy's joins Rusty for the 2nd time on the pod following his book release to chat all things TRIBE... enjoy!

For the love of the game: How to coach identity, belonging and performance in sport.

Amazon https://amzn.eu/d/8hUMhxO

Free chapter landing page https://mailchi.mp/cfte/for-the-love

Season 11 Episode 13 Gary Klein (Expertise)

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Gary and Rusty chat all things expertise, decision-making and intuition... Pete Sturgess, Max Caldas, Daniel Kahneman, netball, rowing, feedback, getting in the head of a team-mate, pre-morteming, shadow boxing and mild suggestions... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 12 - Paul McGuinness (Skilful players)

Fri, 09 May 2025 08:00:00 +0100

A 2nd appearance for Paul to chat all things scanning, secret codes, time-wasting, awkward finishes, going against the flow, feeding the bear and deliberately playing dead... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 11 - Richard Bennett (BPF)

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0100

Rich joins Rusty to chat all things Bhudesi Pride Foundation and changing lives through rugby... https://bpfafrica.org/

Season 11 Episode 10 - Chris Guest

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 04:00:00 +0100

Guests and Rusty reflect on all things coaching England Women U19 cricket... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 9 - Harry Spencer

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 21:00:00 +0100

Harry and Rusty chat all things scout mindset, qui fait quoi, expecting chaos, falling out of love with rugby (and back in love with rugby in France)... Mange tout!

Season 11 Episode 8 Sam Leeming (Finding peace)

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0100

Ex-professional rugby player, diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma at 23 , retired due to concussion at 25 and now helping others find flow... an incredible story with so many great lessons... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 17 Danny and Fletch (Coaching chat and the book)

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 21:00:00 +0000

Fletch and Danny (Newcombe) chat coaching with Rusty... coaching cohesion, pre-mortem, anticipation, tactical vs emotional, flow and feel, coaching skills, the book... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 16 - Christian Penny

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Having bumped into each other in Wellington, Rusty catches up with Christian to chat all things 'bro culture', listening and thinking, finding meaning, helping people be braver, fluidity, working out who the teachers are and putting the who before the task... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 15 - Greg Feek (Finding Strong)

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Greg Feek, current Blues scrum coach, former All Black player and Leinster, Ireland and NZ rugby coach joins Rusty to chat all things scrums, San Fran, the Front Row Union and making them squeal... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 14 Davie Gray (A coach with a different lens)

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0100

Davie and Rusty catch up to chat all things mindset, soft boundaries, designing your own job, secret missions, intent/effort/focus, connecting the dots and pulling the trigger... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 13 - Gerard Jones (Inspire-Involve-Inform)

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 21:00:00 +0100

Gerard joins from the US via York, Hull, Rochdale, Bristol. Morocco and many more chapters as a coach to chat magic moments, imposter syndrome, feedback from Fletch, his square squad and variable rewards... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 12 - Craig Morris (the Olympic journey)

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 11:00:00 +0100

Craig and Rusty chat all things Olympics... being present, the most important of the non-important things, a 1st person perspective, prepared not planned, reinventing yourself and so much more... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 11 Will Webster (player to coach)

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0100

Will Webster... lifelong learner, international rugby coach, MLR winner x 2, player whose dreams outgrew his ability, older brother who is under pressure to get married, all round good bloke. Will and Rusty chat all things becoming a great coach without the blue tick!

Season 11 Episode 10 Aaron Takel (if Carlsberg did coach development...)

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 19:00:00 +0100

Taks and Rusty come together to share their top 10 moments from the recent Gainline Sports Coaching x Magic Academy coach and player hangout on Vancouver Island... rethinking coach development, 33 seconds the story of SQUEEZE, cooks and chefs, wishing you were 30 years younger, the Allenby Coffee Bar, player coaches, running a game tag and what is fun? ENJOY!

Season 11 Episode 9 Jack Hanratty (The Olympic journey)

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 18:00:00 +0100

Jack and Rusty chat all things Canada 7's, fake citings, the 'slog', learning from 7's, problem-solving, low points and so much more... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 8 - Jess Bunyard (Coach Learning)

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 19:00:00 +0100

Jess and Rusty chat all things fist bumping heroes, being a female coach, coach feedback, the rhythm of the game and travelling from Huddersfield to Christchurch to learn as much as you can... enjoy!

Series 11 Episode 7 - Tom Morris (A community of care)

Sat, 08 Jun 2024 19:00:00 +0100

Tom from Progressive Rugby chats all things creating a community of care and protecting players in rugby... enjoy!

Series 11 - Episode 6 James Vaughan (The Swedish theory of love)

Tue, 14 May 2024 19:00:00 +0100

James Vaughan PhD (Head of development at AIK Stockholm) chats all things the Swedish theory of love, comfort blankets, tuxedo pliers with studs and goldfish with Rusty... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 5 - Paul Chequer (Practicing challenging conversations)

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0100

Rusty spends even more time with the man he has spent most of the last month with helping coaches navigate challenging conversations in football (shout out to Danny Newcombe!)... forum theatre, status, noticing skills, statement of intent and 'can I take this back?' Enjoy!

Series 11 Episode 4 - Tom Farrow (Solving Problems)

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:00:00 +0100

Tom Farrow... performance coach, owner at Arete and the best wrestler I know chats all things solving performance problems. On the way, we chat connected conversations, why tackles are missed, 2 leg takedowns and lessons from football... enjoy! Tom can be found at http://www.arete-performance.com/

Series 11 Episode 3 - Sean Graham (Developing yourself and others)

Sun, 04 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Sean and Rusty chat all things from the U13F's, being excited to come to training, reflecting in the moment, Laurie Fisher as Bruce Springsteen, re-imagining a coaching skills carousel, saving bullets, Ben Ryan in 2009 and John Quinn's grenades... enjoy!

Season 11 Episode 2 - Mike Porteous (Confidence)

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 02:00:00 +0000

Mike and Rusty chat all things confidence... What gives you a buzz? When is it hard for you? How does it feel? What milestones might we pass on the way? How can we be mischievous? Who owns the right way? Who do you want to be? Enjoy...

Season 11 - Episode 1 Mike Orchin-McKeever (Energy)

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 21:00:00 +0000

Mike is (just) a PE teacher and rugby coach and chats all things creative coaching, coaching across different environments and growing the game... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 20 Fletch and Rusty (the App)

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0100

Fletch and Rusty chat skill, levels, connecting player-parent-coach, coaching contact, coach development and being more like Finn... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 19 Dave Sharkey (the three-peat)

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 22:00:00 +0100

Sharks returns to chat all things theming, lifting the lid on La Rochelle in Europe, totems, experiments and making them wait... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 18 Andy Abraham (Concepts)

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 19:00:00 +0100

Andy returns to the pod having coached community rugby for the past 11 years alongside his role as Head of Subject at Leeds Beckett... he shares the 11 concepts that helped him the most with his coaching... from simplifying to scaffolding to SOL to planning to athlete engagement... enjoy!

Season 10 - Episode 17 Caspar Berry (Decision-making)

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 20:00:00 +0100

Ex-poker player and Cambridge Economist Caspar and Rusty chat all things decision-making... knowing your opponent, missing bets, data and emotions, neutral reviews, interdependence and the J-curve... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 16 Kieran Hallett (Super Rugby)

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 11:00:00 +0100

Kieran and Rusty chat all things Super Rugby after his sabbatical from Leinster to the Rebels... coaching, co-coaching, pathways, what he's learned... enjoy!

Series 10 -Episode 15 Jack Moran (Curriculum)

Mon, 29 May 2023 12:00:00 +0100

Jack and Rusty sparked by a WhatsApp group chat on curriculum chew the fat on what it could mean, the purpose, the what and the how with (hopefully) some practical ideas to bring it to life... enjoy!

Series 10 Episode 14 - Adam and Maarten (Play)

Tue, 23 May 2023 13:00:00 +0100

Adam and Maarten catch up with Rusty after their play workshop for rugby coaches and chat Elmo and Grover, changing the brain, setting the room to 0, basic human needs, noticing skills, feeling the difference, DJ’ing the room, bravery, sneaky experiments and impact and the ripple effect... enjoy! Find them at https://theplayfuluniversity.co.uk

Series 10 - Episode 13 Andy Longley (Leadership Development)

Sat, 13 May 2023 20:00:00 +0100

Andy Longley (Coach Up) and Rusty chat leadership development for coaches, popping a lung, the Barbarians tour to Germany, ex-players as coaches, scanning the room and high performance... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 12 Martin Bisp (Community)

Sun, 07 May 2023 08:00:00 +0100

Martin and Rusty chat chat about the impact and ripple effects of Empire Fighting Chance (https://www.empirefightingchance.org)... why and how they are helping over 5000 young people per year... an incredible place!

Series 10 - Episode 11 Alex McWilliam (Improv)

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Alex and Rusty chat all things improv... planning, playful practice and feedback to prevent a death on stage... oh, and meeting Sir Ian McKellen at Mother Goose... enjoy! http://improv4business.co.uk

Series 10 - Episode 10 Rachel Vickey (Breathing)

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Rachel and Rusty are reunited after their 'Challenging Conversations' hangout with the Premier League and chat all things helping good people do difficult things, executing under pressure and arousal state control. Rusty is defo paying more attention to his breathing! Rachel can be found here... https://rachelvickery.com

Series 10 - Episode 9 Harry Curtin (224 Oceanbeach Drive)

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 21:00:00 +0000

Harry and Rusty chat all things the Inside Running Coach Development course, living together for almost 2 weeks on Oceanbeach Drive, mentoring, near death cliff falls, patio dancing and high 5's... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 8 Berrick Barnes and Andrew Fraser (Boaty Boys)

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Rusty has a new favourite pod with ex-Wallaby and Rusty's paddle-board partner Berwick Barnes and the man who makes things happen Andrew Fraser. A Joe Rogan-esque meander through rugby, coaching, music, coach development or a spa, detail, the magic pill, Japanese translators, Queen playing Wembley and, most importantly, the impact of being a Boaty Boy... enjoy!

Series 10 episode 7 - Mike Brown (Transition)

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Mike and Rusty chat all things transition including learning to be a student again, growing connections, transferable skills, learning from other sports whilst also chatting coaching, selection conversations, learning from other players, highs and lows and dealing with errors... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 6 Mark Lerpiniere (Growing rugby in a state school)

Sun, 11 Dec 2022 19:00:00 +0000

Mark shares with Rusty how he's grown rugby from scratch to 150 girls and boys representing the school... young leaders, break time club, well-designed competition, parents giving lifts... so much cool stuff... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 5 St David's crew (Contact)

Sun, 11 Dec 2022 17:00:00 +0000

A 'micro-pod' before the 7's semi-finals exploring all things coaching contact... Dan and Ross explore skill, pitch size, collaborating, levels, competition, donor sports and more with Rusty... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 4 Ollie Runswick (Anticipation)

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 21:00:00 +0000

Ollie is back and chats all things anticipation with Rusty... NASA, VR, being a geek/nerd, deception and knowing where to look. Ollie can be found at @oliverrunswick and https://runswickperformance.com Enjoy!

Series 10 Episode 3 - Coach Yas (Coach Development)

Sat, 12 Nov 2022 22:00:00 +0000

Rusty and Has chat all tings coach development including using a mentor effectively, collaborative coaching and stepping out of your comfort zone!

Series 10 - Episode 2 Mike Rogers (Coach learning)

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 10:00:00 +0100

Mike and Rusty chat all things coach development. For 13 days and 12 nights, coaches will be able to take part in the 1st Inside Rugby Coach Development camp (alongside the Player Development camp). As a coach you will have the opportunity to explore, practice and get feedback on your coaching with coaches from rugby and other sports, special guests and so much more... enjoy!

Series 10 - Episode 3 Jack Cooney (Theming)

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0100

Jack and Rusty chat about Westmeath's Tailteann Cup victory and his new role as the new GAA National Player Development lead, puling on threads around environment, coaching individuals, theming (done with MA fave Dave Sharkey) and inspiring a generation... enjoy!

Season 10 - Episode 1 Michael Gerard Doherty (Community)

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 20:00:00 +0100

Michale and Rusty chat all things GAA, coaching, clubs at the heart of the community, bringing parents along with you and Ant & Dec telling us to get off our phones... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 25 Andy Brownhill (A leap of faith)

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 22:00:00 +0100

Andy chats all things selling up and moving to Australia, the opportunities it has created, the people that have helped him along the way and the memories he's trying to create for his players... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 24 Lynn Evans (le Plaisir du Movement)

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 20:00:00 +0100

Lynn and Rusty look forward to Pierre Villepreux coming over for le Plaisir du Movement and the playing and coach development opportunities it offers... enjoy! Email ben@miniscare.co.uk Website https://www.lpm-rugby.org/en/home/

Series 9 - Episode 23 Karen Falcon (Intention and Attention)

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 23:00:00 +0100

Karen joins rugby to chat all things coach development, having a hobby job, language, ECG, curriculum versus syllabus and teaching geography... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 22 Dean Leak (Self-employment and imposter syndrome)

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 22:00:00 +0100

Dean and Rusty chat through their journeys to self-employment and what might have helped! From being bitten by a horse, the price of autonomy, hitting your purpose and connecting the dots up backwards... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 21 Andy Williams (Progressive Education)

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 20:00:00 +0100

Andy and Rusty chat all things education... teacher agency, leadership, CPD, parents and empathy... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 20 Dr Mustafa Sarkar (Resilience)

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Mustafa chat all things resilience... putting on your own oxygen mask first, a GCSE in receiving feedback, replays and Barry Cowan... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 19 Owen Eastwood (Belonging)

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 19:00:00 +0100

Over 2 years to align their diaries and Owen and Rusty chat belonging, storytelling, performance coaching and being open-minded... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 18 Dr Katie Fitton Davies (Motivation)

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 06:00:00 +0100

Katie and Rusty chew the fat on all things motivation, opening a can of worms regarding different types of motivation, rewards and consequences and coaching skills... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 17 Sarah Murray (Psych smoothie)

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 06:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Sarah Murray discuss psychology in coaching including spending time doing me-search, well-being and performance, intent for inaction, Melchester Rovers and turning the fruit bowl into a smoothie... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 16 Mike Rogers (Coach learning)

Sat, 07 May 2022 07:00:00 +0100

Mike chats with Rusty about how we could fail faster as coaches, sharing his best (and worst) coaching experiences on a journey including Mitre 10, Women's Super Rugby and now in the MLR with the New England Free Jacks. Enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 15 Ross Munro (The Path is the Goal)

Mon, 02 May 2022 18:00:00 +0100

Ross returns to the pod 1091 days and chats how how his thinking about coaching has changed again and helped him move his business forward. They chat all things being kind to yourself, boundaries, staying in the moment, rescuing people, recruiting rockstars, Bernard Jackman and AB Zondagh. Enjoy!

Original blog: https://rossrugby.co.za/2017/09/after-10-years-of-coaching-heres-what-i-think-i-know/

Latest blog:https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6914139281896747008/

Series 9 Episode 14 - Euan Mackintosh (Opportunity)

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Rusty and Euan explore the role of opportunity (and luck) in his journey from Scotland to NZ and back again via France, Australia and China for the Olympics. Enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 13 Zane Winslade (Mental skills for kids)

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 17:00:00 +0000

Rusty and Zane chat about the 'Mental Toughness Journal', its origins and its impact. Available on https://www.flowsport.co.nz Enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 12 Craig White (Love)

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Rusty explores the journey Whitey has taken from serial trophy winner at Leicester, Wasps, Wales and the Lions to the search to love yourself and find joy in life. A must listen! Find him at www.menwithoutmasks.com and craigwhitementoring.com

Series 9 Episode 11 -Andy Lockwood (Culture)

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 06:00:00 +0000

The man the legend behind Rugby Vacancies joins Rusty to chat all things culture and shares his 3 key principles for developing it in teams and how that might be relevant to the teams you coach. Oh... and chasing pigs in PNG.

Series 9 Episode 10 - Mark Williams (Science)

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 21:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Mark author of 'The Best: How Elite Athletes are Made' chatting all things effective practice, instruction, science and how it can be used, coaching craft and luck. Enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 9 Dr Oliver Runswick (Learning)

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Ollie and Rusty chat all things learning touching on pressure training, coaching scanning and anticipation, transfer, curriculum design and the well-being of coaches. Ollie can be found at @oliverrunswick and https://runswickperformance.com Enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 8 Danny Care (Skill is King)

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 19:00:00 +0100

DC and Rusty chat all things becoming more skilful as a player and a team, exploring training, coach behaviours and packing your ski goggles... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 7 Will Cotterill (Building a community (rugby) club)

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 21:00:00 +0100

Will and Rusty chat all things the Pyramid of Purpose, Mr Music, player transitions, Project 11 and the Peacock family... enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 6 Richie Gray (Return to Contact)

Sat, 25 Sep 2021 21:00:00 +0100

Richie and Rusty chat all things practice design, confidence, movement skills, touch and training aids. Enjoy! https://passport.world.rugby/injury-prevention-and-risk-management/tackle-ready/

Series 9 - Episode 5 Tom Biggs (Pro Rugby)

Sat, 18 Sep 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Biggsy and Rusty share stories of the reality of professional rugby, putting a few in room 101 including meetings, senior player groups, away days, coach feedback and selection...

Series 9 Episode 4 - Phil Llewellyn and Jason Duffy (RockIt Rugby App)

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0100

Phil turns host and Duffs turns up late to chat all things RockIt Rugby app...

1. What's the benefits for coach, player and parent?
2. How can more kids know more of their times tables?

Enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 3 Rob Vickerman (Sevens)

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 19:00:00 +0100

Having played together and worked together with England, Rusty and Vicks explore:

The benefits of 7's, 10's and touch rugby
All things coaching, leadership and people...
Never meet your hero!

Enjoy!

Series 9 Episode 2 - Joe Schmidt (Winning)

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 22:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Joe chat all things winning:

Developing as a coach
Working out how to win
Structure and shapes
Special plays and experiments
Props kicking

Enjoy!

Series 9 - Episode 1 Dave Sharkey (Theming)

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 21:00:00 +0100

Dave Sharkey (real name) returns to chat through his work with ROG at La Rochelle as he and Rusty discuss:

Types of theming
What he's learnt from theming remotely in a foreign language!
Limitations
What next?

Enjoy!

Series 8 - Episode 14 Martin Fairn Red2Blue

Sat, 24 Jul 2021 18:00:00 +0100

Rusty is joined by Martin and Sunday morning coach Fletcher who has some mental skills to work on for him, the players and their parents. A discussion on how he can think more clearly under pressure, zoom in and zoom out, use his current coaching skills to support the development of the mental skills and how he could individualised this.... enjoy!

Series 8 - Episode 13 Rob Mason is back!

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 21:00:00 +0100

Rob is back with an update on some of his work with coaches in the AFL and with WAIS and his new job working in Mental Health... enjoy! See Rob's work at www.masonlearning.com

Series 8 - Episode 12 Alando Soakai (he's back)

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 19:00:00 +0100

Soaks and Rusty chat all things Kubota Spears and the Top League in Japan... the impact of Malcom Marx and Ryan Crotty, environment, leadership, your best man, alignment, being a great bolt, language and mastery on the battleship... enjoy!

Series 8 - Episode 11 Dr Vic Carr

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 19:00:00 +0100

Dr Vic chats all things leadership and coaching with Rusty. The 1st head teacher to hug Rusty and TED talker, Dr Vic shares some of the tactics that have helped her turn a school around... being fierce, championing the underdog, visible leadership, training and accountability and, of course, love... enjoy!

Series 8 - Episode 10 James Percival

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 17:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Percy chat all things reinventing rugby after James's article in the Rugby Paper.... life in France, loving his time at Quins, the impact of coaches on him (good and bad) and advice for young players... enjoy!

Series 8 - Episode 9 Aaron Danks

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 08:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats to former England U20 (World Cup winning) coach and now Anderlecht 1st team coach Aaron Danks... it's coming home!

Series 8 - Episode 8 Nick Winkelman

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 12:00:00 +0100

Nick and Rusty explore coaching teams and the language of coaching. From the echo of effectiveness to the language locker of a team to intentional trial and error and painting the walls of the house different colours.... enjoy!

Series 8 - Episode 6 Mark Sheasby

Sat, 12 Jun 2021 22:00:00 +0100

Mark chats all things hostage negotiation with Rusty... the importance of language, the subconscious mind, belonging and CS gas...

Series 8 - Episode 5 David Stephens

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 17:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Dave chat all things on being the parent that is finally persuaded to coach and the effect it has had on his parenting and work skills. From the 1st session to the 1st CPD to discovering podcasts to his wife receiving feedback at work and so much more... enjoy!

Series 8 - Episode 4 Dom Palacio

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 17:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Dom chat all things being head of Community and using his car salesman techniques to change lives including computers for kids, the prison project and taking rugby to places where it currently does not exist ... enjoy!

Series 8 - Episode 2 Ross Batty

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0100

Ross, Fletch and Rusty catch up on Ross's career... enjoy the ride!

Series 8 - Episode 1 Doug Lemov

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0100

Doug and Rusty plan an imaginary campaign for the mighty Cognitive Wanderers FC... enjoy!

Series 7 - Episode 24 Aaron Walsh Part 2

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 16:00:00 +0100

Aaron Walsh is back one year on and the most-improved man on Linkedin has become the king of Linkedin! Rusty and Walshy v2.0 chew the fat on all things mental skills with the Chiefs, in schools and beyond. washy even offers Rusty a bit of marriage counselling... enjoy!

Series 7 - Episode 23 Fletch and Rusty

Sun, 30 May 2021 07:00:00 +0100

Fletch and Rusty catch up on what they have been up to including writing a book, developing an app, speaking to the House of Lords, mentoring and hanging out with businesses... enjoy!

Series 7 - Episode 22 John Afoa

Thu, 20 May 2021 23:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Super John Afoa chat all things being in the form of his life, low numbers kicking and adding pieces to the puzzle. Enjoy!

Series 7 - Episode 21 Elaine Cahill

Thu, 13 May 2021 22:00:00 +0100

Rusty is joined by Elaine, coach at 14 and now with a Masters in Psychology chats all things mental health for players and coaches and a variety of skills that might be helpful for us all. Enjoy!

Series 7 - Episode 20 (Business) Dave Slemen

Thu, 13 May 2021 21:00:00 +0100

Dave Slemen, ex-Harlequin and Connacht player talks all things recruitment and people development in both sport and business...

Series 7 - Episode 19 (Business) Cam Spencer

Thu, 13 May 2021 21:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Cam discuss all things people development, leadership and effective teams across a variety of contexts and cultures. Cam is Chief of Barefoot & Boardshorts at Dynamic Adaptability, having previously been the Global Senior Manager of Talent Development for Qatar Airways and more recently tasked with developing people at Booking.com. Enjoy!

Series 7 - Episode 18 Jack Green

Thu, 06 May 2021 18:00:00 +0100

Finally (World and European medalist and now coach) Jack and Rusty get on the pod to chat all things moving from 105th in the World to 16th in one year, having his identity tied up with the 'Green Machine', managing the noise in his head, almost playing England 7's, coming 4th in the Olympics and his new role with Champion Health. A must listen!

Series 7 - Episode 17 Ed Robinson

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0100

Rusty catches up with Ed Robinson exploring his journey from Bristol to Rotherham to Jersey and England and back again. What has he learnt and who has helped him along the way... enjoy!

Series 7 -Episode 16 Rachael Taylor

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 11:00:00 +0100

Rachel and Rusty chat about the chapters In her journey so far, exploring playing, coaching, the Barbarians, pathways, coach development, participation and performance and (perhaps) goose-stepping a famous rugby player Enjoy!

Series 7 - Episode 15 Jordan Turner-Hall

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 16:00:00 +0100

At last Rusty and JTH chat! So much in this talk from player-to-coach, learning from the dark days, the impact of coaches on his life, coaching young people, Champagne Charlies and Joe Marler turning up in a (Adidas) space suit... enjoy!

Series 7 - Episode 14 Fletch and Rusty

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 08:00:00 +0100

Fletch and Rusty simply chat stuff and nonsense about the 6 Nations and beyond...

Series 7 - Episode 13 Derek O'Riordan

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Fletch and Rusty catch up with Derek to chat about his journey so far, Fletch being 11/10 when in Scotland, the impact of sport on people, coach development, stress and burnout in sport coaching and rebalancing the scales... a must listen!

Series 7 - Episode 12 Doug Lemov

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Doug and Rusty chat all things teaching, coaching and learning. As well as the washing basket, a journey that stops to enjoy the view at anticipating errors, who is listening best, signposting, the classroom as a team, co-coaching, whiteboards and co-creation. And... the book (A Coach's Guide to Teaching) is in Rusty's top 3. Enjoy! PS There will be a part 2.

Series 7 - Episode 11 Paul McGuinness

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 21:00:00 +0000

Rusty and Paul go on a coaching road trip... wild horses, the arrogance of timing, the cage, the chain, deception, scanning in the long grass, observational skills and intimidation by skill. Enjoy the ride!

Series 7 - Episode 10 Clare Murphy

Sat, 27 Feb 2021 13:00:00 +0000

Clare Murphy storyteller extraordinaire chats all things stories for coaches and leaders, being in a flow state, the power of silence and connection and how she lives a life without shame! A must listen...

Series 7 - Episode 10 Jon Fisher

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 12:00:00 +0000

Fish and Rusty chat all things player to coach, academy coaching into 1st team coaching, relationships, tactical frameworks, being coached by Rusty and Fish's learning network... enjoy!

Series 7 Episode 9 - Steve Price

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 22:00:00 +0000

Rusty and Pricey sit down to reflect on their time together with England and all things Rugby League, coaching in the NRL, creating opportunities for young players, learning to coach and being sacked.

Series 7 - Episode 8 Dr Dave Piggott

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 22:00:00 +0000

Dangerous Dave chats all things coaching basketball, wearing a vest on the mean streets of Grantham and flow experiences with Rusty. A must listen!

Series 7 - Episode 7 James Bailey

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 20:00:00 +0000

Bails and Rusty chat all things finding your love of 7's, D&I, videos of Campo, being national Kiss Chase champ and coaching. Enjoy the ride...

Series 7 - Episode 6 Amy Whitehead

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Amy hangs with rusty to chat all things being one of the best tennis players in Cumbria, car conversations, the psychology of learning how to lose and thinking aloud with coaches and coaching teams and . Loads of practical advice to help you grow...

Series 7 - Episode 5 David Flatman

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Rusty and Fletch chat all things being yourself, rugby, coaching, refereeing, media and low numbers kicking. A great time was had by all!

Series 7 - Episode 4 AIden McNulty

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 22:00:00 +0000

Rusty gets to jump in on the bromance between Fletch and Aiden to discuss all things Ulster, BOOP, coaching Fletch's son, #BeatTheGame, using analysts effectively and coaching in the gym. Enjoy!

Series 7 - Episode 3 Barry Ferns

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 21:00:00 +0000

Barry chats all things recording himself telling jokes, feedback, adapting, dying on stage, hecklers, Donald Trump, patina, Dara O Briain moments and Rusty playing Wembley... the most diverse pod ever!

Series 7 - Episode 2 Neil Tunnah

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Neil and Rusty chat about being bang average rugby players, living out of a suitcase as a coach, 'ouch' moments and learning in the Championship with Jersey....

Series 7 - Episode 1 Scott Sneddon

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Scott Sneddon and Rusty chat all things coaching in Hong Kong, the World Cup repechage, working in various coaching teams and the interview process to get his new job at Loughborough.

Series 6 - Episode 24 Mark O'Sullivan joins Fletch and Rusty

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Fletch turns host in our Christmas special with Mark O'Sullivan and Rusty to chat all things 2020 and beyond. Have a great Christmas and enjoy...

Season 6 - Episode 23 Jonny McMurty

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Jonny and Rusty chat all things coaching, coach development and his research into why young people drop out of rugby

Season 6 - Episode 22 Rob Mason

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Rob and Rusty chat all things coaching, coach development, feedback and coaching on a match day whilst exploring loads of other rabbit holes. Rob's recent translation of a couple of academic papers on his website (www.masonlearning.com) might be worth a glance or two...

Season 6 - Episode 21 Alex Lascu and Courtney Winfield-Hill

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 21:00:00 +0000

Alex and Courtney chat all things cricket, representative design, mental skills and sledging, 2 great old friends chatting with Rusty! A must listen for all sports...

Season 6 - Episode 20 Cath Bishop

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Fellow Cantabrigian Cath talks all things training for 4 years to go slower at an Olympic Games, being a diplomat in Iraq, Dean Macey's hamstring and navigating lockdown with a 7 and a 9 year old. She's also written a rather cool book....

Season 6 - Episode 19 Toutai Kefu

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats all things low number drop goals, learning off Eddie, tactical solutions at the 2019 World Cup and (of course!) Bermuda....

Season 6 - Episode 18 Gary Kirsten

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 14:00:00 +0000

Gary Kirsten... family man, cricketer and coach chats all things coaching with Rusty

Season 6 - Episode 17 with John Brake

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty and Brakey who is coaching the London Royals in the Bermuda 10's chats all things playing and transitioning to coaching at Worth School and England 7's, including walking for miles to get his tie, looking for a ball on a building site and playing in a World Cup 7's final

Season 6 -Episode 16 with the Miami Sun 10's

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 10:00:00 +0000

In case you hadn't noticed our intrepid chief wizard is in Bermuda and chats all things rugby and coaching with the Miami Suns players and coaching staff...

Season 6 - Episode 15 with Matt Turner

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Live and direct (well almost!!) from Bermuda where Rusty chats with Mat Turner, ex-England 7's and now Seattle Seawolves player-coach hangs with Rusty in Bermuda to chat all things World 10's, rugby opportunities in the US and how Rusty could have coached him better...

Season 6 - Episode 14 with Lee Dickson

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 19:00:00 +0100

Fletch takes the hot seat this week as Rusty is sunning himself with the Miami team in Barbados (Fletch and Stig available for next year!!!!)

We are very grateful to Lee Dickson - who joins Fletch to chat Barney to Barney via Falcons, Saints, Blues and England

Series 6 - Episode 13 with Tamara Taylor

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 07:00:00 +0100

Tamara Taylor 115 caps for England and 4 World cups chats all things coaching, self doubt and the move from DMP to Saracens with Fletch... enjoy!

Season 6 - Episode 12 with Dr Suzanne Brown

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 07:00:00 +0100

Suzanne shares her 5 guiding principles with Rusty as they chat all things psychology, motivation, behavioural change and the impact of supervision...

Season 6 - Episode 11 with Peter Russian

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats all things intent-based leadership, Jose Mourinho, inviting feedback and coaching the U9's with Peter Russian from 'Turn The Ship Around'

Season 6 - Episode 10 with Simon Jones

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Simon Jones, 10.6s 100m man, S&C coach for Japan at the 2019 RWC and Rusty's favourite lockdown webinar.

Season 6 - Episode 9 with Eilidh Gibson

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Eilidh Gibson... paddler, World and European champion, founder of Slalom Inspire and Project FLOW...

Series 6 - Episode 8 Farrah Douglas

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 07:00:00 +0100

Farrah Douglas, ex-USA Eagle rugby player, went to 2 Rugby World Cup and was hit very hard by Maggie Alphonsi. Chats all things coaching, learning and spending the Summer at Bowdoin with Rusty every year!

Series 6 - Episode 7 Lee Eldridge

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 07:00:00 +0100

Lee is founder of the Athlete Tribe. He chats all things physical development in the lower leagues and Premiership, coaching and well-being. Rusty needs to eat more fruit and veg!

Season 6 - Episode 6 with Dr Robert Townsend

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 07:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Rob chat all things disability and inclusion coaching, deep reflective moments, socio-relational reflections and 'what if Carlsberg did coach development'. Rusty left inspired and pleased his WRU keynote was a strong grade C...

Season 6 - Episode 5 with Cheavon Clarke

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Cheavon Clarke, Commonwealth and European medalist, died twice and the man with the best energy Rusty has ever met...

Season 6 - Episode 4 with Kendrick Lynn

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Kendrick Lynn, coach (both sides of the ball) at Lyon in the Top 14 joins Rusty to chat all things identity, the French Resistance, off-the-pitch habits, player to coach and what makes a great day for him. He's excited to be a guest on his favourite podcast!

Season 6 - Episode 3 with Anna Stodter

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Anna Stodter, international rugby player, course leader at Anglia Ruskin University and curious about all things coach learning. Anna has also won twice as many Varsity matches as Rusty...

Season 6 - Episode 2 with Alando Soakai

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty catches up with 'Soaks' and discusses all things player to coach, learning from 7's, secret lockdown coaches groups and gamification catching on around the world...

Season 6 - Episode 1 with Jeremy Holt

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Jeremy Holt and Rusty chat all things identity, walking empaths, caveman, speedway and pit stop crews.

Season 5 - Episode 24 with Cody Royle

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Wrapping up season 5 Rusty chats with Cody Royle... AFL coach, writer and podcaster chats all things leadership, head coaching and talking to himself...

Season 5 - Episode 23 with James Gee

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty meets one of his heroes and his newfound 'phone-a-friend' James Gee to chat all things video game design, learning and politics.

Season 5 - Episode 22 with Sinan, Ben and Tom Luddington

Sat, 25 Jul 2020 19:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with his magic lessons friends, Magic Academy members and trainee wizards Sinan and Ben plus Magic Circle member Tom Luddington...

Season 5 - Episode 21 with William Bryce

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Fletch takes the reins this week and chats with William Bryce about the NFL academy based in London

Season 5 - Episode 20 with Ugo Monye

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Ugo Monte... Harlequin, England and British Lion, father and commentator...
Chats all things being human, being Fletch’s favourite commentator, immediate feedback on social media, winning championships and hanging with the Magic academy during lockdown...

Season 5 - Episode 19 with Jared Payne

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Jared Payne... ex-Crusader, Irish International and British and Irish Lion chats player-to-coach with Rusty. From his first day as a coach to what he has been up to over lockdown and everything in between.

Season 5 - Episode 18 with Topsy Ojo and Dr Daniel Fujiwara

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Topsy Ojo (London Irish legend and one club man) and Dr Daniel Fujiwara (expert in well-being) chat all things well-being in sport with Rusty

Season 5 - Episode 17 with Boing Kids

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Danny Newcombe and Will Roberts from Boing Kids join Rusty to chat all things 'Bears in the Woods', coach development and how we take webinars to the pitch more effectively.

Season 5 - Episode 16 with Damian Hughes

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 11:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Damian Hughes, storyteller extraordinaire and all things truth tellers versus time tellers, cultural architects, momento mori and (the radio DJ) Chris Evans. Similar WiFi to Stuart Lancaster.

Season 5 - Episode 15 with Jean Côté

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:00:00 +0100

Jean Côté, professor and researcher in coaching and children in sport, planner of interactions and ex-goal tender chats all things coaching with Rusty.

Season 5 - Episode 14 with Aaron Walsh

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Aaron Walsh and Rusty make it 2nd time lucky. Linkedin's most improved person and mental skills coach with the Gallagher Chiefs joins Rusty to chat all things belonging, identity and normalising mental skills.

Season 5 - Episode 13 with Lara Mossman

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 07:00:00 +0100

Lara Mossman joins a notable list of second podcasters all the way (with dodgy wifi) from Melbourne and takes Rusty by surprise by hacking the pod to gamify his coaching report from a session she watched. Enjoy!

Season 5 - Episode 12 with Ben Pegna

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 12:00:00 +0100

Rusty catches up with Ben Pegna, ex-player and now consultant coach chats all things coaching, rooming with rusty with the 7's and Going For Gold...

Season 5 - Episode 11 with James Maby

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 11:00:00 +0100

Rusty and James chat all things coaching, opera and his dissertation on Magic Academy cards

Season 5 - Episode 10 with England Touch

Fri, 29 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Sammie Phillips, Ben Powell and Peter Bell from England Touch join Rusty to chat all things touch rugby, skill development and Rusty's road to the 2023 World Cup.

Season 5 - Episode 9 with Kevin Bowring and Nigel Redman

Wed, 27 May 2020 16:00:00 +0100

The Batman and Robin of coach development share their experiences, insights and stories with Rusty and Fletch

Season 5 - Episode 8 with Brendan Purcell

Wed, 20 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Brendan who is Performance Director at British rowing who talks all things rowing, paddling, triathlon and broken laptops...

Season 5 - Episode 7 with Scott Robertson

Mon, 18 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Razor who talks about being a storyteller, surfing, coaching Brazil 7’s, ROG’s 10 kids and who inspires him!

Season 5 - Episode 6 with Billy Vunipola

Mon, 11 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Billy and fletch chat about training with Mako and his cousins, his faith and how he is dealing with the world cup final

Season 5 - Episode 5 with Dan Cox

Sat, 09 May 2020 17:00:00 +0100

Dan Cox chats all things Cake evenings, ouch moments, pracademia and SGS Filton with Rusty

Season 5 - Episode 4 with Ben Earl

Wed, 06 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Ben Earl... chats with Rusty all things early success, changing his mindset around training, Walt's visualisation and how would he make England U18's better

Season 5 - Episode 3 with Craig Morris

Mon, 04 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100

GB Canoe Slalom coach... Rusty and Craig chat all things coaching individuals, £250/hour sessions, trans-disciplinary teams, pivotal moments, the Lord Mayor of Winchester and WITTW.

Season 5 - Episode 2 with Stephen Rollnick

Fri, 01 May 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Stephen Rollnick, clinical psychologist, godfather of motivation interviewing and expert at making Rusty aware there is way more to learn...

Season 5 - Episode 1 with Kirk Vallis

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

We kick off the new season with Kirk Vallis, Head of Creativity at Google who talks all things Creativity in sport and business with Rusty...

Season 4 - Episode 24 with Richie Gray

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

In the final podcast of season 4, Richie Gray chats all things coaching, the NFL, coaching contact and rough and tumble with Rusty

Season 4 - Episode 23 with Andy Friend

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Andy Friend and Rusty chew the fat on (amongst other things) his coaching journey, the importance of character, coaching 7's (obviously), the importance of caring and learning moments.

Season 4 - Episode 22 with Kirk Vallis, Stuart Lancaster and Nick Twigg

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

An epic episode bringing together Sport and Business as Rusty and Fletch chat with Kirk Vallis of Google, Stuart Lancaster who's internet sadly went awry and Nick Twigg to talk all things around leadership, creativity and other interesting stuff!

Season 4 - Episode 21 with JP Doyle

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with International and Premiership referee JP Doyle.

Season 4 - Episode 20 with Anthony Watson

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Fletch catches up with 'Tony'

Season 4 - Episode 19 with Joe Marchant

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Fletch chats all things rugby with Joe Marchant

Season 4 - Episode 18 with AB Zondagh

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

AB Zondagh chats with Rusty all things Stade Toulousain, skills coaching, players taking responsibility and coaching in a foreign language...

Season 4 - Episode 17 with Dr James Bell and Richard Hill MBE

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

It's Fletch's turn to take the reins for the Magic Academy podcast! He is joined by Dr James Bell guru of performance phycology chats with Ricard Hill MBE of Saracens, England and British Lions fame! They chat all things Culture, Resilience and Relationship.

Season 4 - Episode 16 with Eddie Jones

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Eddie Jones, who has been the head coach of the England national team since 2015. He previously coached Australia between 2001 and 2005, taking the team to the 2003 Rugby World Cup Final.

Season 4 - Episode 15 with Jamie Williams and Mark O'Sullivan

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 16:00:00 +0100

Jamie, Mark, Rusty and the mysterious John chew the fat on restarting coaching kids from scratch after a conversation started on #WebinarWednesday

Season 4 - Episode 14 with George Ford

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0100

12 years on from when they worked together in the England pathway Fletch chats with George Ford, Englands current Fly half! They chat about Fordy's early experiences, leadership and the World Cup Final

Season 4 - Episode 13 with Stuart Lancaster

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Stuart Lancaster chats all things coaching, co-coaching, leadership and being Fletch's best boss..

Season 4 - Episode 12 with Clive Chapman

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Clive Chapman, rugby coach at Birmingham & Solihull Bees explores the joys and challenges of coaching community rugby...

Season 4 - Episode 11 with Marcus Smith

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 21:00:00 +0000

Rusty and Marcus chat all things coaching, his journey, scanning, skill development, transition, analysts and pick their best 5-a-side rugby teams...

Season 4 - Episode 10 "An International Special!"

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 20:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with rockstars of Italian Rugby - Luca Bigi, the international Captain, Michele Mordacci, the Peter Pan of Rugby Colorno and specialist in mini and youth coaching, Aldo Birchall who is rocking it at Biella in Serie A as Head coach, Dan Goegan who edits RugbyMeet and plays hooker at Colorno and last but not least long time friend of the Pod Nick Scott Director of Rugby at Colorno. This episode is dedicated to our friends and coaches in Italy! #ForzaItalia

Season 4 - Episode 9 with Andy Holloway

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Andy "Hollers" Holloway, kicking and skills maestro who works with Championship side Ealing Trailfinders. He also works with Blackheath and the winning Cambridge University team from this seasons Varsity match.

Season 4 - Episode 8 with Jack Pattinson and Rhys Davies

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty catches up with Jack Pattinson, London Irish DPP manager and Rhys Davies who works alongside him as the Academy Coach Development Officer.

Season 4 - Episode 7 with Sally Needham

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 10:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Sally Needham, County Coach Developer for the FA, Northerner and lover of coaching young children. Rusty wrote loads of notes!

Season 4 - Episode 6 With Mark O'Sullivan

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Mark O'Sullivan, AIK Soccer, one time Morten Harket bandmate and street show jumper...

Season 4 - Episode 5 with Jeff Williams

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 06:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Jeff Williams.. ex-England 7's and Bath rugby, now enjoying the sunshine of France...

Season 4 - Episode 4 with Dan Norton & Tom Mitchell

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty says this is easily the most favourite Pod he has done so it should be well worth a listen
Rusty chats with team mates and friends Tom Mitchell and Dan Norton of England 7's super stardom!

Season 4 - Episode 3 with the Lincoln Branch of The Magic Academy

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty brings together the Lincoln Branch of MA with Ross Tarnowski, Tom Eves and Shannon - Enjoy the Valentine bonus episode!

Season 4 - Episode 1 with Richard Cheetham

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 18:00:00 +0000

Season 4 kicks off with Rusty getting back on the bike with "The Two Wheel Prof" Coaching wizard and all round good bloke and the Lord Mayor of Chievley Services, Richard "Cheets" Cheetham

Season 4 - Episode 2 with Jamie Taylor

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty catches up with Jamie Taylor...EIS, Leicester tigers and Denstone college. Owner of a noisy drinking dog...

Season 3 - Episode 24 Season Finale with Rusty and Fletch

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

To bring an end to season 3, Rusty and Fletch catch up and chew the fat answering all of your twitter questions

Season 3 - Episode 23 with Phil Llewellyn and Aaron Takel

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with an Englishman taking a sabbatical from work to coach rugby in Canada and a Welshman who moved to Canada to play rugby and is now coaching there about all things coaching over there including some cool examples of how clubs are collaborating to help their players develop quicker...

Season 3 - Episode 22 with Lizzie Simmonds

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Lizzie Simmonds... Olympian, ex-swimmer, lover of M&M's and fellow Bristol resident!

Season 3 - Episode 21 with Amy Price

Thu, 09 Jan 2020 07:00:00 +0000

The legend that is Amy Price part 2... purist, coach and coach developer, lover of box sets and high quality sleep enjoys ripping apart Rusty’s coaching... 🤘

Season 3 - Episode 20 with Tom Hartley

Wed, 01 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Tom Hartley - football coach, owner of a Masters in Early Years Development, prison project wizard, soon to be dad, top man...

Season 3 - Episode 19 with Dr Ed Coughlan

Wed, 25 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Dr Ed Coughlan... skill acquisition specialist, deep reflector, working on waiting at least 4 times for the players to work it out and aiming for transfer through PEAQ.

Season 3 - Episode 18 with David Murrie

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with David Murrie... lover of rugby, hater of tacking, coach, biomechanist and Michael Barishnikov lookalike. Website https://sites.google.com/site/davemurriesportsscience/

Season 3 - Episode 17 with Dave Sharkey

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 10:00:00 +0000

Rusty sits down to chat with Dave Sharkey, English teacher, rugby coach and lover of rockets...

Season 3 - Episode 16 with Max Caldas

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 08:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Maximiliano Jorge "Max" Caldas the very well respected Argentine field hockey defender, who made his debut for the national squad in 1994, and competed for his native country in the 1996 Summer Olympics and the 2004 Summer Olympics.

Since 2010 Maximiliano Caldas is the Dutch women's national team coach. On the 2012 Olympics he won gold as a coach with the Dutch women's. They also grabbed the gold at the first edition of the Hockey World League in 2013. In June 2014 he won his third gold with the Dutch women at the Hockey World Cup in The Hague. He is now in charge of the Dutch men's hockey team.

Season 3 - Episode 15 with Phoebe Schecter

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Phoebe Schecter - American Football coach. Find out more about Phoebe here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RcosmUiA8o

Season 3 - Episode 14 with Mike Ashford

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 08:00:00 +0000

Rusty catches up with Mike Ashford, rugby coach, lecturer and soon to be Doctor...

Season 3 - Episode 13 with Rhys Williams

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Rhys Williams... writer, musician and part time wizard. Works with Craig David and played flute for Morrissey, purveyor of quality dad jokes and slightly better than RhysWilliams3

Season 3 Episode 12 - With Danny Newcombe

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty catches up with Danny Newcombe... International hockey coach, coach developer, inventor of Roller Ball and wearer of caps...

Season 3 - Episode 11 with Ross Tucker

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Roos currently a science and research consultant for World Rugby, where his role is basically to support all strategic decisions that involve player welfare (so injury, concussion, player health), High Performance (performance analysis, performance audits) and Law (law change and monitoring).

Season 3 - Episode 9 with Geoff Parling

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Fletch catches up with Geoff Parling who takes us through his rugby journey from Newcastle to Melbourne!!

Season 3 - Episode 10 with Gavin Allinson

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 15:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Fletch do a special pre-WC pod with Gavin Allinson, rugby coach and the man who will prevent Fletch from eating Scotch Eggs and Smarties in Service Stations for at least the next 6 weeks.

Season 3 - Episode 8 with Garry Banford

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Garry Banford, ex-Special Forces, culminating in him being senior recruiter for UK Special Forces. Rusty and Garry discuss principles that connect both his world and the world of sport. Amazingly Rusty manages to use the phrase 'killing baddies'.

Season 3 - Episode 6 with Tom McLaughlin

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 06:00:00 +0100

Rusty turns to the world of S&C this week as he chats with Tom McLaughlin, High Performance Manager of Ealing Trailfinders. Some great conversation including top tips for Grass roots coaches on bringing fitness to games! Tom boasts a wealth of experience from working in professional environments such as Bristol, Connaught and Wasps since the genesis of professional rugby!

Season 3 - Episode 5 with Peter Walton

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Waited a long time to write this! Fletch catches up with the legend that is Walts down in Malvern after watching some rugby together! This will be essential listening!

Season 3 - Episode 7 with Geoff Webster

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 07:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Fiji general manager Geoff Webster

Season 3 - Episode 4 One Year In - With Rusty and Fletch

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0100

The lads sit down after a long day at Sedbergh to reminisce and reflect on 1 year of The Magic Academy and the million steps a day that Rusty is currently doing!

On the agenda... Rusty's admin, Fletch's work on's and a job application for the Crusaders!

Season 3 - Episode 3 with Crista Cullen

Wed, 07 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0100

The lads are grafting hard at the famous Sedbergh Camp this week and Rusty took the opportunity to catch up with Crista Cullen, Hockey player, drag flicker, conservationist, coach and living in a house with Fletch and Rusty for 4 days in Sedbergh....oh and by the way its probably cool to mention she's a Triple Olympian,Gold & Bronze Medallist as well as an MBE!

Season 3 - Episode 2 with Shane Fletcher

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0100

In this weeks episode - Rusty chats with Canterbury Crusaders Team manager Shane Fletcher.... My favourite expression in this pod...???? "Saturate them with performance"
Love Magic Stig

Season 3 - Episode 1 with Andy Plimer

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty is in Canada this week and catches up with Andy Plimer, Family man, Rugby coach, Teacher, Twitcher (Life list: 1052) Really bad hockey player, IPA enthusiast & Creator of @RugbyCoachsCn podcast (The second best podcast in the world!)

Season 2 -Episode 23 with Andy Abraham

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0100

For our season 2 finale, Rusty chats with Andrew Abraham... Head of Subject at Carnegie School of Sport, nurturer of young coaches, Sunday morning dad (and coach) and Status Quo mega-fan!

Season 2 -Episode 22 with Elliot Newell

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Sports psych Elliot Newell, by his own admission a sucker for a story!! Rusty also claims this is his most favourite podcast yet.....

Season 2 -Episode 21 with Wayne Smith

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rock Star alert!! Rusty can't contain his excitement in this weeks MA podcast where he gets to ask questions of one of his coaching heroes! Wayne Smith joins us for what we believe is his first ever podcast!! (Need a fact check for that though!!)

Season 2 -Episode 20 with Rusty and Fletch

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0100

In this weeks podcast Rusty and Fletch continue the conversation around gamification

Season 2 -Episode 19 with Mo Bobat

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0100

With the Cricket world cup in full flow, Rusty chats with Mo Bobat, Talent Identifiction rockstar for the ECB.

Season 2 - Episode 17 - Nick Watson

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Nick Watson, head of rugby at Dainfern College in Johannesburg .

Season 2 -Episode 18 with Simon Strachan

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 09:00:00 +0100

A bonus podcast for this week as Rusty chats all things team cohesion with Simon Strachan of Gain Line Analytics

Season 2 Episode 16 - With Matthew Tait

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Fletch chats with Matthew James Murray Tait AKA Taity - talks about his experiences/thoughts re Falcons Tigers England 7's Coaching and Mental Health

Season 2 Episode 15 - with Ruaridh McConnochie

Wed, 29 May 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty catches up with Ruaridh McConnochie

Season 2 Episode 14 - With Iain Chisholm

Wed, 22 May 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Iain Chisholm, DOR, player-coach, Scotsman, no longer has a 'real job' and performs wizardry at Highland Rugby.

Season 2 Episode 13 - With Ed Hall

Wed, 15 May 2019 08:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Ed Hall, Doctor and senior lecturer of Northumbria University.

Season 2 Episode 10 - With Ross Munro

Wed, 08 May 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Ross Munro. They connected after an article that Ross wrote which you can read here https://rossrugby.co.za/2017/09/after-10-years-of-coaching-heres-what-i-think-i-know/

Series 2 Episode 12 - with Rich Berry

Mon, 06 May 2019 17:00:00 +0100

Rich has had 3 decades in education and coaching which has led him to recently becoming the Mental Health and Wellbeing Ambassador for Gloucestershire RFU.... Rusty chats all things coaching and well-being for young people.

Season 2 Episode 11 - With Glenn Delaney (Round 2!)

Fri, 03 May 2019 09:00:00 +0100

Rusty loved the last one so much he went back for more!!! Enjoy our bonus podcast with Glenn Delaney!

Season 2 Episode 9 - With David Ross

Wed, 01 May 2019 09:00:00 +0100

Rusty catches up with David Ross, Head of the famous Kings College in Auckland.

Season 2 Episode 8 - With Mark Cairns

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 15:00:00 +0100

Fletch chats rugby and spells with Mark Cairns, Head coach of Scottish Premiership side Currie Chieftans and Co-Founder of Coach Logic

Season 2 - Episode 7 - At Wellington College

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Fletch are live at the Wellington College Premiership Rugby Academies Festival with Aiden McNulty, Jack Pattinson and James Lightfoot-Brown.

Season 2 - Episode 6 - with Matt Norman and Kingswood RFC

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Matt Norman and the players from Kingswood RFC

Season 2 - Episode 5 - with Jen Ward

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty catches up with Jen Ward who is studying for a PhD in positive psychology!

Season 2 - Episode 4 - with Amy Price

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Amy Price rockstar football coach and University lecturer. Amy now works with the FA at St Georges Park as a Coach Developer.

Season 2 - Episode 3 - with Tom Redfern

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty chats with Tom Redfern. A young coach who is doing some great work with Woodford RFC.

Season 2 - Episode 2 - with Heather Fisher

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats to Heather Fisher, amazing rockstar of women's rugby

Season 2 Episode 1 - With Lara Mossman

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Lara Mossman, who whilst studying for her PHD provides an online training platform to support coaches development
A wizard and a rockstar!!!

Episode 22 - With Anastacia Long

Sat, 23 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

In the last podcast of Season 1 Rusty catches up with a good friend to The Magic Academy, Anastasia Long of Trinity School and Old Ruts a rockstar and a Wizard.

Episode 21 - With Nikki O'Donnell

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Nikki O'Donnell, international referee and as Rusty describes "Full time Angel!" thanks to her nursing career!

Episode 20 - With Ben Mercer

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Ben Mercer, ex-professional rugby player and writer. About to publish his book 'Lost in France, Life on the Fringes of Professional Rugby

Episode 19 - With Jamie Williams

Sat, 09 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Jamie Williams a pracademic and Footy wizard from the frozen north. Rusty tells us this was a fun podcast to do!

Episode 18 - With Giselle Mather

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

In celebrating International Women's day Rusty chats with Giselle Mather, former England International, London Irish AASE manager, Barbarians Head Coach and Wasps Director of Rugby. Giselle became the first woman to qualify at Level 4 in the UK. She is a Rockstar!

Episode 17 - With Rusty, Fletch and Juan

Sat, 02 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

A race against time!! Whilst on tour Rusty, Fletch and Juan set a challenge to squeeze in a quick podcast update before their washing finishes its cycle! A short review of the Magic Academy tour so far!

Episode 16 - With Jamie Lennard

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

The Magic Academy team (Minus the Stig!!) are on tour in Malaysia!!! Here they chat with Jamie Lennard, Director of Sport for Marlborough College.
Former stand off at London Irish, London Welsh, Bedford, Worcester, Doncaster. Jamie was also a teacher at Hill House Doncaster, now rocking it at Marlborough College Malaysia. Talking teaching, coaching and having the magic in town

Episode 15 - With Nick Scott

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Fletch travels to Italy and meets up for a cafè and chat with RFU National Coaching Manager and also now Director of Rugby Nick Scott. Nick now manages the development of Rugby Colorno, a small town in the North of Italy where he works with a progressive group of passionate rugby supporters to create the best environment in Italy!

Episode 14 - With Jim Crick

Sat, 16 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty and Jim discuss coaching a National team, coaching abroad, Auckland grids and Mr Jimmy's chess...

Episode 13 - With John Lavery

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty rocks it with John Lavery, former Canadian Rugby pathway coach! Enjoy

Episode 12 - With Clark Laidlaw

Wed, 13 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty rocks it with Clark Laidlaw, The New Zealand 7's Head coach. In Rusty's words...."This is now my new favourite podcast!" - We hope you enjoy...

Episode 11 - With Rusty and Fletch

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

The Chief wizards are catching up to talk ESPN fantasy league and some thoughts on the Six Nations ahead of "Le Crunch" this weekend.

Episode 10 with Elliot Blackmore

Thu, 07 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with Elliot Blackmore who is a SEMH specialist Teacher as well as Gravesend and Sarries DPP coach!

Episode 9 with Non Perfect Dad

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

The long awaited podcast which promised to be a belter! Rusty and Richard Shorter (Non Perfect Dad) talking about Richards work in engaging parents. In Rusty's words "This was a really cool podcast" Opening with guitars and medieval Axes!!!!! Who knows where this one is going!

Episode 8 with Nick Wilkinson

Sun, 03 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Rusty chats with a community coaching rockstar - Nick Wilkinson. Rusty met Nick for the first time at the Saracens DPP a few years back. Nick is a big supporter of The Magic Academy and its our pleasure that he found some time to chat with Rusty.

Episode 7 with The Two Wheeled Prof

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000

The much anticipated and long awaited podcast where Rusty gets to share some magic with Richard Cheetham, distinguished professor of Winchester University. This one will be fun!

Episode 6 #ChallengeTheScore

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000

In The Magic Academy's latest podcast, Rusty and Fletch get to chewing the fat in Rusty's kitchen. On the menu... Rusty's favourite CPD as well as ideas around challenging large one sided scores in Junior Rugby.

Episode 5 with Glenn Delaney

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty comes back from an impossible 4-0 down to win an epic Rock Paper Scissors!

Episode 4 with Brian Ashton

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Fletch sit down with Brian, one of the major inspirations behind Fletch's coaching philosophy!

Episode 3 with Keith Lyons

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Keith joins Rusty in the kitchen for coffee and a chat!

Episode 2 with Sam Jarman...

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Sam chats with Rusty in a car park in Maidenhead!

Episode 1 with Dean Clark

Thu, 30 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Rusty and Fletch enjoy a coffee and "Casserole Pot" Q&A with the rockstar that is Dean Clark of Hartpury University. Dean is a leading figure in lecturing around coaching science.