In this episode of Life From The Sidelines, we dive into the world of women’s rugby coaching with Willie Walker, Coach and Amy Courtney, Manager of the Nz Cavs 7s team, two passionate advocates for the sport. Together, they share their journeys—from unexpected beginnings to nearly a decade of shaping the game for women. We explore what it takes to build resilience in athletes, the unique dynamics of coaching women, and why treating players as individuals truly matters.

Willie and Amy open up about the joys and challenges of working in a sport that’s still fighting for recognition and resources. They discuss the crucial role of family support, how open communication empowers athletes (especially mothers), and why management needs to prioritize the personal lives of their players. Most importantly, they reflect on the legacy they hope to leave: a strong foundation for future generations of women in rugby and a reminder that sport is only one part of a much bigger life journey.

Tune in for honest stories, practical insights, and a celebration of the community that makes women’s rugby so special.

In this episode, We are recording from EAAST 7s Tournament in Cognac discovering athletes identity beyond the field. We sit down with founder of the EAAST 7s Teddy Stanaway as he shares his journey from being a renowned rugby player to an entrepreneur and advocate for wellness. He discusses the importance of resilience, cultural influences, and the lessons learned from injuries. Teddy emphasises the significance of family support and taking ownership of one's journey, especially for athletes navigating their careers. His insights inspire listeners to redefine success and prioritise mental and emotional wellness.

In this heartfelt episode, Tima Savea takes us on an inspiring journey from her roots in Iraq to building a life in New Zealand and navigating the unique challenges of living in France. She opens up about the delicate balancing act of motherhood, marriage, and mental health, sharing deeply personal stories of cultural transitions, the impact of COVID-19, and the power of family support.

Tima dives into her IVF experience, the pressures of social media, and the importance of staying authentic in the influencer world. She also reflects on the lessons learned through friendship, personal growth, and the evolving dynamics of life after rugby. This candid conversation is a celebration of resilience, maturity, and the grace it takes to overcome life’s hurdles. Tune in for a raw and uplifting discussion that will leave you feeling empowered and connected.

In this insightful episode of Life From The Sidelines, we sit down with David Galbraith, a New Zealand Registered Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience working with elite athletes, including the All Blacks, Chiefs, and Olympic athletes. David shares his journey from a sports-loving childhood to becoming a renowned sports psychologist, helping athletes and their partners thrive both on and off the field.

We dive into the mental health challenges faced by professional athletes, particularly rugby players, and explore how partners can support them without adding pressure. David offers practical strategies for improving communication, maintaining work-life balance, and recognizing signs of mental health struggles. He also provides actionable mental resilience practices for couples and advice on building a supportive community to navigate the unique challenges of professional sports.

Whether you’re an athlete partner, a sports enthusiast, or someone passionate about mental health, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Tune in and discover how to strengthen your relationship, prioritize mental well-being, and thrive together in the high-pressure world of professional sports.

In this special episode of LFTSL, we sit down with Ben O’Keeffe, the renowned international rugby referee from New Zealand who has officiated at two Rugby World Cups, recently reached 100 Super Rugby games, and is now celebrating a personal milestone—his engagement to Wilhelmina! Ben shares his remarkable journey, from his childhood days in New Zealand playing sports to the steps he took to become a top-tier referee, balancing the pressure of the global stage with his equally impressive career in the medical field.

Dive into Ben’s experience officiating high-stakes matches across hemispheres, hear how he learned to speak French for Top 14 matches, and discover how he manages co-founding oDocs Eye Care while also providing anti-wrinkle treatments in Auckland! If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to excel in such diverse fields—both on and off the pitch—this episode is a must-listen. Plus, learn about the tight-knit community of rugby referees and the mental resilience tools needed to thrive amid controversy and high expectations.

Tune in to hear:

• Ben’s early life and the spark that led him to pursue refereeing.
• Refereeing at the Rugby World Cup—the pinnacle of a ref’s career.
• The balancing act of being a world-class referee and a medical professional.
• Key advice for aspiring referees who dream of breaking into the big leagues.

Join us for a conversation that will entertain, inspire, and give you a whole new appreciation for the critical role referees play in the world of rugby!

Join us, Kayla and Jada in a captivating conversation with special guest Fiona Wainiqolo, wife of Fijian rugby star Jiuta Wainiqolo. Fiona pulls back the curtain on her life off the field—managing family schedules, training for Hyrox competitions, and planning for life after rugby. From morning chaos to unexpected travel dates, discover how these athlete wives juggle motherhood, fitness, and business ventures while staying true to their wellness goals. Fiona also shares her journey into property investments in Fiji and launching the “Siosio” merch brand, revealing the importance of financial foresight and creating multiple income streams. Whether you’re an athlete’s partner or just looking for inspiration on balancing career, family, and self-care, this episode is filled with candid insights, practical tips, and a hearty dose of motivation. Tune in to hear how Fiona and Jiuta support each other’s ambitions, and learn the secrets to thriving—on and off the field.

https://siosioapparel.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Libby Boxall—a qualified nutritionist, naturopath, entrepreneur, wife to pro footballer Michael Boxall, and mother of two—to discuss her incredible journey.

From founding Dose & Co and Milou Beauty to navigating life as an athlete’s wife, Libby shares how she turned her passion for health and beauty into a global brand while raising a family and supporting her husband’s soccer career from the sidelines.

She also opens up about working with Khloé Kardashian, the challenges of being a female entrepreneur, and the importance of self-care amidst a busy life.

Join us as Libby reveals her biggest business lessons, motherhood insights, and wellness philosophies—plus, what’s next for her brands!

Listen now and follow Libby on Instagram: @libbyboxall

What happens when your partner’s career takes you across the world—again and again? 🌍 In this episode, Kayla and Jada sit down with Gardenia, wife of pro rugby player Kimami, to talk about the challenges and rewards of constantly starting over in new cities with each contract. From immersing herself in French culture and learning the language to building strong social connections in the rugby world, Gardenia shares how she’s embraced change and made each new place feel like home. 🏡🇫🇷

We dive into:

🔹 The importance of community when you’re always on the move

🔹 How learning French made life in France so much easier

🔹 Navigating the rugby scene and why being social is key

🔹 Tips for making new places feel like home—fast

If you’ve ever relocated, started fresh in a new country, or had to rebuild your social circle from scratch, this episode is for you.