Chiming In - Steve Gillis, Player Manager

Come inside the world of player agent and Chiming In presenter Steve Gillis as he gives us a bird’s-eye view into the deals, thrills and spills he’s overseen this season.

Having worked in rugby league as a journalist and player agent for almost 45 years, Chimes knows the ins and outs of the game as well as anyone.

In this episode of Chiming In, he gives us an inside look at Sam Walker’s future, how Adam Reynolds’ send-off was bungled, what’s next for Josh Papalii, and why the Dragons’ Couchman twins put their negotiations on hold.

Plus, Chimes unpacks PNG’s recruitment plans, the Perth expansion challenge, player retirement funds, the coach market, and why smart recruitment is the key to sustained NRL success.

It’s raw, revealing and a fascinating insight into how a player agent goes about his business.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

00:00 — Intro

01:49 — Adam Reynolds’ Retirement and Brisbane Exit

06:50 — Sam Walker’s Roosters Future

17:01 — Hugo Savala’s Roosters Loyalty

18:53 — DCE’s Career Crossroads

19:48 — PNG’s Recruitment Plans: Alex Johnston & Zac Lomax

26:41 — Alex Johnston’s South Sydney Exit That Never Happened

28:54 — Perth’s Marquee Player Challenge

31:10 — Can the NRL Sustain a 20th Team?

34:21 — Preparing Players for Retirement

36:07 — How the NRL Retirement Fund Works

40:56 — How Player Agents Find and Sign Talent

42:48 — Dane Gagai’s Move to Brisbane

44:46 — How Clubs Land Marquee Players: Ben Hunt

46:25 — Why the Couchman Twins Paused Negotiations

50:43 — Dean Young’s Coaching Journey

55:28 — Do NRL Coaches Need Agents?

59:56 — Should the NRL Add a Second New Zealand Team?

60:55 — Parramatta’s Recruitment Challenge

62:24 — Scott Drinkwater’s Cowboys Exit

65:35 — Brisbane, Madge McGuire & the Broncos’ Future

68:50 — Newcastle’s Turnaround

69:50 — Justin Holbrook’s Coaching Revival

70:27 — Are the Dolphins the Expansion Blueprint?

71:38 — Titans Recruitment, Roster Management & Penrith’s Dynasty

73:51 — Wrap-Up

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Inside Jai’s Journey.

South Sydney CEO Blake Solly has been front and centre since news of Jai Arrow’s battle with Motor Neurone Disease began.

In this episode of Chiming In, Solly shares insight into Jai’s courage and the way he has inspirationally lifted his teammates this season.

He also reveals how coach Wayne Bennett was instrumental in ensuring Arrow was credited with 100 NRL games for the Bunnies — and how Souths pitched the idea to the NRL.

But there’s more. Solly openly discusses:

- The signing of Payne Haas

- The futures of Cody Walker and Latrell Mitchell

- Why the NRL should invest in Super League

- The new CBA

- Wayne Bennett’s use-by date

- Souths legend Nathan Merritt and his battle with cancer

- South Sydney’s premiership chances

It’s a must-watch episode for every rugby league fan — not just

Rabbitohs supporters.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 - Intro: Inside Jai’s Journey

1:45 - Jai Arrow’s MND Diagnosis & the Rugby League Community’s Response

6:00 - Jai’s 100-Game Milestone & the Emotional Gold Coast Tribute

9:30 - Payne Haas: How Souths Got the Deal Done

14:00 - Why the NRL Should Invest in Super League

17:30 - Wayne Bennett’s Role in Jai Arrow’s 100th NRL Game

20:00 - Souths’ Culture, Facilities & Building a Lasting Club

26:00 - Souths Cares, Nathan Merritt & Supporting Former Players

30:00 - Does Wayne Bennett Have a Use-By Date?

32:00 - Cody Walker & Latrell Mitchell’s Futures

34:00 - NRL Expansion and Funding Club Pathways

38:00 - Can South Sydney Win the Premiership?

40:00 - The New CBA and Player Payments

46:00 - Why Financially Strong Clubs Matter

48:00 - Souths’ Stance on Gambling Sponsorships

50:00 - Making Rugby League More Accessible for Kids

52:00 - John Sutton’s Ongoing Role at Souths

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Tim Gilbert has covered two Olympics, US golf majors, the Commonwealth Games and 11 years producing the Sunday Footy Show — but he started out earning nine grand a year at a tiny radio station in Goulburn, and very nearly lost the job in his first few months.

Gilbert takes us from his early days growing up as one of six kids in Guildford, through a thousand dollars' worth of job applications that finally landed him a start at 2GN, to the night he slept through his alarm and left the Goulburn rural news off the air for nine minutes. He shares stories from three decades in Sydney media — stripping off on the Today Show, playing schoolboy rugby league alongside Greg Alexander, and the chaos of live TV crosses gone wrong.

There are big names throughout too: a Kerry Packer safari-suit blow-up, a first-class seat next to a food-averse Tony Greig on the way home from covering cricket in India, and the story behind Beanies for Brain Cancer, born from the loss of his Channel 9 colleague Matt Calendar. Gilbert also opens up on leaving Nine "in the most public fashion" and why he has no regrets about any of it.

In this episode of Chiming In, Tim Gilbert looks back on a career that took him from a country radio booth to some of the biggest stages in sport and media.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Intro

01:36 - Welcome: Tim Gilbert joins Chiming In

02:04 - A career across the Today Show, Olympics and more

03:06 - Growing up half-Lebanese in Guildford, one of six kids

04:26 - A thousand dollars applying for radio jobs

05:06 - Landing his first gig at 2GN Goulburn

06:25 - The night he slept through the rural news

18:57 - Radio and TV bloopers, and taking his shirt off on the Today Show

20:22 - Playing schoolboy rugby league, and missing "the tackle"

21:54 - Eleven years producing the Sunday Footy Show

23:09 - Reading the news, and the chaos of live crosses

24:48 - Coat and tie above the desk, thongs below

32:08 - Covering cricket in India, and the "cream rises to the top" upgrade

39:19 - Kerry Packer, and the origin of Beanies for Brain Cancer

40:44 - A love of Sound of Music and Willy Wonka

43:03 - Life now: Lead Story, NSWRL and life after Nine

44:37 - Leaving Nine in the most public fashion

45:33 - No regrets along the way

46:13 - Wrap-up

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Dave Trodden runs one of Australian sport's biggest and least understood organisations — the New South Wales Rugby League turns over more than $50 million a year, oversees 126,000 players across 700 clubs, and controls every competition in the state bar the NRL and NRLW.

Trodden takes us inside the business of Origin: why Matt King was the right call to succeed Laurie Daley, whether Ivan Cleary has put his hand up for a future crack at the job, and why he expects Origin player payments to eventually double. He also opens up on protecting referees after a wave of public controversy, why bush footy is in far better shape than people think, and the extraordinary economic value the game's 40,000 volunteers add each year.

It's not all boardroom talk, either — Trodden shares the story of falling in love with rugby league at Balmain's famous 1969 grand final upset, how he ended up on the Wests Tigers board almost by accident during the fractious merger years, and becoming chairman in time for the club's fairytale premiership win in 2005.

In this episode of Chiming In, Dave Trodden gives a rare inside look at how the game is really run, from grassroots to Origin.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Intro

01:25 - Welcome: NSWRL CEO Dave Trodden joins Chiming In

02:14 - What people get wrong about the NSWRL

02:54 - The Blues as one of Australia's biggest sporting brands

03:48 - Matt King's appointment as Origin coach

05:01 - Did Ivan Cleary put his hand up?

10:41 - Why a club coach can't also coach Origin

11:57 - Will Origin players push for a bigger pay packet?

13:39 - A Monday morning inside NSWRL headquarters

19:51 - Protecting referees, and the Tamworth suspension controversy

21:01 - Is bush footy really dying?

23:28 - Visiting Junee with Laurie Daley

24:12 - Getting retired players back into country footy

25:44 - The economic value of 40,000 volunteers

28:08 - How Magic Round in Tamworth came about

39:20 - Falling in love with rugby league at the 1969 grand final

41:38 - Joining the Wests Tigers board almost by accident

44:02 - Becoming chairman during the merger fallout

45:21 - The fairytale run to the 2005 premiership

53:43 - Origin scheduling, PNG games and jersey tweaks

55:33 - Could City vs Country ever come back?

56:31 - Does the job ever feel appreciated?

58:29 - Wrap-up

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Darryl Brohman OAM is back on Chiming In just over a year since his last appearance — and in that time he's fought off non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, his second cancer battle after prostate cancer a few years earlier.

The Queensland Origin forward turned radio institution talks candidly about six rounds of chemo, losing his hair "everywhere," and the perspective he found sitting in a ward full of people going through the same thing — all delivered with the self-deprecating humour that's made him one of the game's most loved characters for the best part of 50 years.

Brohman also looks back on winning the 1984 grand final with Canterbury after a move from Penrith, coaching reserve grade for Phil Gould at the Bulldogs, receiving his OAM for services to rugby league, and the racehorse syndicate he ran with Laurie Daley and Ricky Stuart that paid off in Melbourne on Oaks Day.

In this episode of Chiming In, the Big Marn opens up on health, humour, and half a century in the game he loves — proving why he's still one of the best gets in the business.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Intro

01:32 - Welcome back: Darryl Brohman returns to Chiming In

01:45 - Health update: beating cancer for a second time

03:25 - How the diagnosis came about

04:50 - Chemo, and finding perspective in the ward

06:22 - Does a football career prepare you for something like this?

09:54 - The line between commentator, expert and comic

12:02 - Was he always the funny kid?

13:06 - Prostate cancer, sleep apnea, and losing his sense of taste

17:26 - Meeting Bev, and coaching reserve grade for Gus at the Bulldogs

28:31 - Punting, and the racehorse he owned with Laurie Daley and Ricky Stuart

31:14 - Winning the 1984 grand final with the Bulldogs

35:04 - Receiving his OAM for services to rugby league

36:08 - Giving back through the Starlight Foundation

39:17 - Copping a spray from Tim Sheens, and getting dropped

42:00 - Backing Laurie Daley through the Origin scrutiny

1:00:15 - Life after footy: the media career and finances

1:01:20 - Wrap-up

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Dean "Bulldog" Ritchie has covered rugby league for the Daily Telegraph for 37 years, breaking some of the game's biggest stories along the way — from a teenage cadet's first back-page scoop to the Bulldogs' secretly-photographed meeting with Jonathan Thurston.

Ritchie takes us through how a chance work-experience placement turned into a career, the mentors who shaped him — including the legendary Peter "Chippy" Frilingos, whose sudden death at work in 2004 Ritchie still finds hard to talk about — and 37 years' worth of scoops, near-misses and colourful nights out, including the taxi door that put him in hospital.

He also opens up on his 37-year friendship with Laurie Daley, the on-air Origin III prediction that turned out to be spot on, and life inside NRL 360 alongside some of the game's biggest personalities.

In this episode of Chiming In, Bulldog shares stories from a career spent chasing the game he's loved since he was a kid waving a Roosters flag from the outer.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:27 - Welcome: Dean "Bulldog" Ritchie joins Chiming In

02:11 - His schoolboy footy days and a near-miss at a Wallabies jumper

06:00 - Breaking into journalism through Bill Mordy

08:18 - Cutting his teeth at the Cumberland papers

09:40 - Landing the Daily Telegraph job on 1989 Grand Final day

11:06 - His mentors: "Chippy" Frilingos and "Buzz" Rothfield

15:38 - Chippy's sudden death, and being a pallbearer

18:25 - His first scoop: "Saints Sack Craig Young"

22:09 - The Bulldogs-Thurston scoop, and other big stories

24:23 - Friends and foes in rugby league

25:53 - Building a 37-year friendship with Laurie Daley

36:52 - The night a taxi door put him in hospital

38:41 - Covering rugby league around the world

39:52 - The Perth Bears trip that cost Mal Meninga $20K

45:38 - Backing Laurie Daley, and the Origin III prediction that came true

47:58 - Inside NRL 360, and copping a spray on air

48:33 - Sunday mornings on the Big Sports Breakfast

53:28 - 37 years at the Daily Telegraph

54:51 - Social media, and whether the nastiness is new

57:49 - Expansion: Christchurch vs Brisbane for team 20

59:56 - Should the NRL buy English Super League?

01:01:18 - Wrap-up

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Peter Sharp is one of rugby league's most respected and longest-serving coaching minds — over 40 years in the game, and the man widely credited with discovering and shaping a young Andrew and Matthew Johns at the Newcastle Knights.

From playing days at Maitland in the 1970s and a colourful path through Central Charlestown, England and Newcastle's junior system, Sharp went on to become an NRL head coach at Manly, an assistant to Craig Bellamy at Melbourne, and later took Hull FC on a 13-game winning streak in England before switching codes entirely to coach Ulster in rugby union.

These days he's back in the NRL working alongside Phil Gould at the Canterbury Bulldogs.

Sharp opens up on discovering a teenage Joey Johns, the night out that nearly cost the Jersey Flegg side a game, getting sacked and picked straight back up by Craig Bellamy, and the toughest and funniest moments from four decades on the sideline — plus a candid word on mental health and the Black Dog Institute.

In this episode of Chiming In, Peter shares stories from a career that's taken him from suburban rugby league grounds to Belfast, and reflects on what's changed in the game he's given his life to.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:01 - Rugby league royalty: introducing Peter Sharp

01:35 - Phil Gould's tribute and the Gus friendship

07:29 - The Brian Smith interview and the "beef and pickle sandwich" job

08:35 - Growing up in Maitland, playing on the weight

13:11 - The 1977 grand final and a 30,000-strong crowd

14:06 - Injury, and backpacking to England

17:15 - Meeting Andrew and Matthew Johns at Newcastle

19:28 - The infamous night out before a Balmain game

21:21 - Rising to reserve grade and a premiership

23:39 - Becoming Manly head coach after Bob Fulton's shock resignation

26:22 - The Northern Eagles "messy flop"

28:13 - Forgetting his wife at Gosford

29:03 - Learning under Craig Bellamy at Melbourne

30:34 - Hull FC and a 13-game winning streak in England

31:51 - Switching codes: coaching Ulster rugby union in Belfast

41:19 - Greatest coach debate and rugby league heroes

45:00 - Media scrutiny then vs now

49:40 - Mental health advocacy and the Black Dog Institute

51:02 - Wrap-up: 32 years in rugby league

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Craig Salvatori was a mainstay of the Sydney Roosters front row through the late '80s and early '90s, racking up around 140 first grade games between the Roosters and a final season at South Sydney, three State of Origin appearances for the Blues alongside Laurie Daley, and a Roosters life membership this year that came with the club's Indigenous Round honour.

He was also at the centre of one of Australian sport's most confronting personal stories: in October 2002, Salvatori lost his wife Kathy in the Bali bombings, and became an unlikely go-between for the Australian government's response on the ground, speaking daily with radio host Alan Jones and eventually meeting with then-Prime Minister John Howard. More than two decades on, he talks openly about grief, acceptance, and raising his daughters through it.

It's not all heavy going, though — Salvatori also revisits the infamous headbutt that cost him a five-week suspension, a near-miss at a premiership in 1987, and a colonoscopy story that nearly blew up his marriage. And after 45 years as a builder, he's about to set off on "Salvo's Aussie Pub Crawl" — a year-long lap of the country's pubs with his wife and dog in tow.

In this episode of Chiming In, Craig shares stories from a life that's been as tough as it has been full, and explains why he's chosen to talk about the hardest parts of it rather than look away.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Intro

01:21 - Welcome: Craig Salvatori joins Chiming In

01:47 - Breaking news: retiring after 45 years as a builder

02:32 - The plan: Salvo's Aussie Pub Crawl

05:20 - The colonoscopy story that nearly got him busted

09:02 - Naming the tour and sorting sleeping arrangements

14:35 - Opening up about the Bali bombings and losing Kathy

16:33 - How the group ended up split between the Sari Club and babysitting

18:06 - The night of the bombing and the search for answers

21:34 - Getting the Prime Minister involved

24:25 - Has he been back to Bali since

25:29 - Roosters and Rabbitohs career, and getting signed for $2,000

29:50 - The 1987 preliminary final classic against Canberra

31:12 - Backing Laurie Daley against his critics

32:40 - Falling out with Phil Gould and leaving the Roosters

35:24 - Retiring at 30, and getting two new knees at 53

37:36 - Roosters life member and Indigenous Round honour

41:28 - The hardest front rowers he played against

42:20 - The famous headbutt and five-week suspension

46:15 - Calling games on radio with 2GB

47:16 - Life on the road calling Cowboys games in Townsville

53:01 - Wrap-up and best wishes for the trip

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Fresh off coaching New South Wales to a series win nobody outside the camp gave them a chance of, Laurie Daley sits down for a full debrief on the campaign — the celebrations, the criticism, and everything in between.

Daley takes us inside the moments after the siren: the Gatorade shower, the speech in the sheds, a beer on the SCG turf with the playing group, and the 5:30am walk into a radio station on zero sleep to do an interview live, still buzzing from the win. He also answers his critics head-on — the press conference "grenade," the pile-on over Melbourne's interchange calls, and whether Laurie Daley holds a grudge (his answer: no, but he's keeping receipts).

Along the way he talks through what Stuart Diver's story meant to the playing group, a reunion dinner with the 1996 Blues team, the viral clip of Phil Gould pinching his seat in 2002, and just how far Andrew Johns' influence reached inside the camp this year. There's also a quiet moment about his late father, and the song that reminded Daley he was with him in spirit on the day it mattered most.

In this episode of Chiming In, Laurie shares what it really took to win the "unwinnable" series — and what's next for him and the Blues.

00:00 - Intro

01:08 - Welcome: the Origin-winning coach in the studio

02:35 - What's next — the contract question and his plans

06:50 - Celebrations: the Gatorade shower and the sneaky phone request

08:52 - On the field when the siren went

10:27 - The team photo, and standing at the back on purpose

12:21 - A beer on the SCG turf and the speech in the sheds

14:59 - 16 weeks without a beer, then the one that mattered

16:10 - The 5:30am walk into the radio station

17:51 - Over a thousand texts, and who reached out

26:51 - The press conference "grenade"

29:09 - Does Laurie Daley hold a grudge?

30:15 - The "putting his players to sleep" story

32:44 - Answering the Melbourne interchange criticism

37:56 - Brian To'o's Origin future

39:44 - Stuart Diver's story and what it meant to the group

42:08 - Reuniting with the 1996 Blues team

44:03 - Phil Gould's "greatest ever" comments

45:44 - The viral Gus seat-pinching clip

47:38 - What he learned about himself this campaign

48:38 - Isiah Yeo's leadership in camp

50:26 - Nathan Cleary and the immortal conversation

52:13 - Mitch Moses' kicking game and his role in the win

56:25 - His late father, and the song that reminded him he was there

58:11 - Wrap-up and what's ahead for the Blues

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Paul Nobby Clarke is one of rugby league’s good guys.

A powerful front rower forward in the 1980s and 90s, Clarke gave as good as he got but always found time to look at the lighter side of life.

Tough, skilful and uncompromising, Clarke played a major role in Penrith’s first ever premiership victory in 1991.

According to team-mate Royce Simmons, Clarke was deserved on the Churchill Medal. Clarke reckons Simmons told him after the game that he was Canberra’s best player in the first half and Penrith’s best performer in the second.

In this episode of Chiming In, Nobby shares the secrets of his success and recalls how his childhood dream of playing in the NRL never left his radar.

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You would think former Manly coach Anthony Seibold would be death riding the Sea Eagles this year. Strangely, that’s not the case.

Dumped by the Club after just three NRL games, Seibold is today back on top of his game and would be more than pleased if his former chargers went on to the win the premiership.

In this episode of Chiming In, Seibold opens up on shock moment he was shown the door at Brookvale and how he has since put his life back together.

His openness and honesty will surprise you. In fact, Seibold hasn’t given up on Coaching NRL again - despite failing to fulfil his last two contracts at Manly and Brisbane.

He also talks candidly about his time at Souths and the enormous pressure he found himself under after joining the Brisbane Broncos.

Often criticised but always up for the challenge, Seibold is one of rugby league’s true survivors. His honesty and frankness will surprise many and his journey from a ball boy to an NRL head coach will amaze you.

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Royce Simmons is one of the most loved people to have ever played the game of rugby league.

Who could forget the 1991 grand final, when Simmons - in his very last game for the Penrith Panthers - scored two tries in a five star performance to overcome the Canberra Raiders.

Sadly, in recent times, the former NSW and Australian hooker has struggled with health issues and is battling dementia.

But it hasn’t stopped Simmons' zest for life and his desire to raise funds and try and find a cure for the debilitating disease.

In this episode of Chiming In, Simmons talks passionately about his health battles, his love for rugby league and those he has shared his journey with.

But it’s his funny life stories which will have you chuckling as Simmons recalls a career well done.

Simmons also reveals the greatest ever forward he’s ever seen - and it will shock you.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

01:46 - Diagnosis Dementia

04:16 - Walking

05:06 - Warning Signs / Finding Out

07:01 - Biggest Killer in the World / Stats

08:41 - Treatment for Dementia

10:06 - Treatment in America

11:36 - Dealing / Living With It

12:46 - People Reaching Out

14:03 - Lightbulb Moment for Starting Charity

15:31 - England & Hull Work

18:46 - Raising Money & Marathons

21:56 - "Worst Thing That Could Happen"

25:36 - Nathan Cleary & Current Penrith

26:56 - Penrith Pride

28:31 - Named in His Honour + Retirement / Aged Living Apartments

34:16 - '91 Grand Final + Last Game

37:36 - Promise to Fans + Grand Final Night

39:01 - Growing Up in the Bush

43:46 - Early Sporting Days

46:59 - Pet Horse + Motorbike

50:16 - Meeting His Wife + Meeting in High School

52:46 - Clubs That Almost Signed

56:16 - Comparing Old vs New Players

58:11 - Isaah Yeo / Best Forward Ever

01:02:16 - Upcoming Walks & Fundraisers

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Wes Heritage is a former Australian Rules footballer who gave the game away to focus on the family business - burying people.

And while some of his former team-mates went on to greatness, the hard working funeral director chose a different path.

Each year, Heritage oversees more than 600 funerals - ensuring families and their loved ones are given nothing but the best support and care in a most difficult time.

Death awaits us all yet we never really explore the funeral process until it’s bestowed upon us.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you die, Heritage has the answers on a Chiming In podcast of a very different kind.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

01:28 - Intro

01:52 - Introduction to Wes

02:37 - Death

03:47 - Starting the Funeral Business

06:52 - Witnessing Death

08:12 - Funeral Sizes

10:07 - Burying at Sea

11:19 - What Makes a Good Funeral Director?

13:37 - How Does It Work?

14:52 - Changes of Funerals Over the Years

18:07 - Picking Celebrants

20:37 - Wes' Experience as a Priest

20:57 - Funeral Costs

23:45 - Funeral Insurance

26:31 - Cremation

28:07 - Items of Remembrance

29:42 - Managing Emotions

32:52 - Pet Funerals

35:27 - Bikie Funerals

37:22 - Life After Death

38:37 - Open Caskets

41:17 - Funeral Songs

42:33 - Rivalry Companies

45:22 - White Lady Funeral

46:22 - Funeral Director Conventions

48:52 - Advice for Funerals

50:52 - Attending Wakes

52:22 - Funny Funerals

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Peter O’Sullivan is regarded the NRL’s premier recruitment manager having successfully shaped the playing rosters of teams like the Dragons, Roosters, Storm, Warriors and Knights over many years.

He was also responsible for putting together the Dolphins inaugural team in 2023 - which, amazingly, less than four seasons later, is now considered a genuine premiership contender.

So what does a recruitment manager do and how does he identify and procure talent.

O’Sullivan is credited with unearthing and launching the careers of players such as Greg Inglis, Latrell Mitchel, Israel Folau, Roger Tuivasa-Scheck and many, many more. He also plays a key role in the salary cap management of his club.

Today O’Sullivan is an integral part of the Newcastle Knights system and was the man responsible for luring Dylan Brown away from Parramatta in sensational circumstances.

In this episode of Chiming In, you are given a birds’ eye view into the tricks of the recruitment manager’s trade - how they identify players, entice them to switch clubs and build powerful playing rosters.

With new teams Perth and Papua New Guinea on the horizon, no-one is better qualified than O’Sullivan to comment on how their new look rosters are shaping up.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

01:45 – Recruitment Manager

03:05 – How He Put Redcliffe Together

05:05 – Negotiating with Wayne Bennett

06:20 – Roster Strategy

07:40 – Dolphins Knock Backs

09:20 – Who Said No to the Dolphins

10:20 – Signing Hammer

11:40 – What Do You Look For in a Player?

12:40 – Dealing with Knockback

15:45 – Joel Kane Story

17:20 – Family + Kids (Sean O'Sullivan)

19:20 – Busy Schedule

20:20 – How to Become a Recruitment Manager

23:20 – Managing Melbourne Recruitment

24:20 – Recruiting Greg Inglis

27:50 – Greg Inglis Being a Blue

30:05 – "The Pitch"

31:35 – Working with Player Agents

34:25 – Parents + Agent Pressure on Players

37:15 – Negotiating with Different Backgrounds

38:45 – Player Obstacles Getting Into the NRL

39:50 – Perth Bears Recruitment

42:05 – Helping the Knights Recruitment

43:45 – Dylan Brown Signing

47:10 – Re-Signing Ponga

48:20 – Justin Holbrook's Effects on the Club

49:30 – Premiership at the Knights

50:40 – How to Say No to a Player

51:53 – November Deadline + Trade Windows

54:15 – Coaches, Agents + Representation

56:21 – Israel Folau

58:05 – RTS

59:04 – Boyd Cordner

01:01:05 – Phone Visible on the Wide

01:01:10 – PNG Signings

01:03:10 – Club Bucket List

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Jordan Rankin was only 16 years old and still at school when he got the call-up to make his NRL debut for the Titans.

He became the third youngest player in the game’s history to debut.

On the day of the game, the Gold Coast halfback stuck to his normal routine which included donning his school uniform and heading off for classes.

Looking back, Rankin’s journey has been truly remarkable, having had stints with the Gold Coast, Hull, Doncaster, Wests Tigers, Huddersfield, Castleford and Parramatta - where he captain coached the Eels NSW Cup team.

Today, Rankin is an aspiring coach and is determined to make his mark.

In this episode of Chiming In, Rankin recalls his journey, his plans for the future and discusses many of the challenges that face young players - just like he once was. It hasn’t been all plain sailing but Rankin’s recollection of his life as a rugby league player will inspire you.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

01:37 - 3rd Youngest Player to Debut in NRL

09:46 - Goals to Make NRL

10:54 - School before first NRL game

19:06 - Staying Grounded

20:09 - Dropped and NRL Return

22:19 - Should kids be allowed to debut before 18?

24:59 - Dealing With Anxiety

27:27 - Time at the Titans

29:09 - English Super League

35:01 - Coming back to the NRL (Tigers)

29:35 - Back to Super League again

41:00 - Back To NRL again (Parramatta)

45:05 - Captain/coach Parra Reserve Grade

48:30 - Flegg Coaching

49:18 - What makes a good coach?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Phil “Buzz” Rothfield has spent 50 years as one of rugby league’s most recognisable voices.

After stepping away from newspapers, television, radio and podcasts, Buzz returns for a special episode of Chiming In to explain why he retired, what he misses, and what he really thinks of the NRL season so far.

In this episode, Buzz opens up on the pressure of working seven days a week in rugby league media, life after NRL 360, and why breaking stories is still hard to let go.

He also gives his unfiltered views on Andrew Abdo’s exit, Peter V’landys, the Canterbury Bulldogs, Melbourne Storm, NRL expansion and more.

From retirement reflections to big calls on the future of the game, Buzz is back behind the microphone and he doesn’t sit on the fence.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:03 - Highlights

00:48 - Phil “Buzz” Rothfield returns

01:15 - Why Buzz retired

02:29 - Life after rugby league media

06:00 - Andrew Abdo steps down

08:25 - Payne Haas to South Sydney

10:30 - Canterbury Bulldogs struggles

14:24 - Rugby league supporting its own & Try July

16:42 - Melbourne Storm and Billy Slater

18:22 - NRL global round and the Roosters

20:35 - Dragons and Shane Flanagan

23:24 - Blowout scores and rule changes

26:39 - Coaching pressure

29:49 - Best coach in the NRL

30:36 - PNG, New Zealand and expansion

33:01 - Perth Bears

34:39 - Zac Lomax and R360

36:35 - State of Origin and Super League

38:54 - Penrith Panthers and Ivan Cleary

40:05 - Newcastle, contenders and Grand Final prediction

42:07 - Coach of the Year and Dally M judging

44:12 - Wests Tigers

45:13 - Suburban grounds and Shark Park

48:27 - Gold Coast Titans and coaching accountability

52:58 - Wayne Bennett’s future

54:27 - Referees and the bunker

55:35 - Women’s rugby league and Emma Lawrence

57:32 - NRL 360, media pressure and Magic Round

01:00:00 - Final reflections

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael “Mouse" Jenkinson is a highly decorated yet extremely humble Bondi Lifeguard.

On December 14 last year, the man they nicknamed “Mouse” was about to complete a normal day of work at the beach with his colleagues when he two gunman started firing high powered rifles at innocent people.

Fifteen people lost their lives and many more would have, if not for the courage of countless people like Jenkinson who ran towards danger - not away from it. Aside from the precious lives lost, as many as 40 people were wounded.

In this episode of Chiming In, Jenkinson recalls that fateful day and how it will change the lives of so many forever.

At tragic as the circumstances were, Jenkinson’s story - like so many other first responders - will inspire you.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

02:10 - Growing up

05:53 - Getting into being a Lifeguard

10:27 - Bondi Rescue

14:43 - Nickname Mouse

15:34 - 1st Day as a lifeguard

17:42 - Rescuing kids

24:27 - Bondi team

30:00 - Backpackers Rip

31:45 - Bondi attack 2025

43:21 - Ahmed El Ahmed

50:58 - Response from first responders

55:02 - The aftermath

01:01:35 - The Jewish community

01:02:28 - Mental recovery

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New Zealand Warriors CEO Cameron George has waited patiently for his club to become a major force in the NRL.

Now riding near the top of the competition ladder and respected and feared by its rivals, George confidently predicts this is the year of the Wahs.

And if they do eventually capture their first NRL title, George is entitled - more than most - to celebrate the achievement.

It was George who steered the Club through covid, fought for his players rights and ensured the safety and well being of a group of men and their families, who made an incredible sacrifice to ensure the game went on.

In this episode of Chiming In, you will get to know the man behind the secrets of the Warriors success. From humble beginnings in Northern NSW, George has emerged as one of the game’s top administrators who is respected and liked by all.

He gives an inside look at how the Warriors stayed afloat, while the world was seemingly crumbling.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

02:04 - 2026 GF on the cards

03:32 - NZ development pathways

05:14 - Invading recruits

07:42 - Recruiters in Aus for NZ

09:15 - Finding Webby

12:14 - Long term Warriors coach

13:25 - NZ undervaluing

15:15 - Competing with All Blacks

17:00 - Fanatical Wahs fans

20:19 - 20th team out of Wellington

23:16 - Womens game

26:50 - Does PNG have an unfair advantage?

30:17 - Getting players to Auckland

33:25 - When Covid hit

47:00 - Learning about players

51:48 - Pacific Islander family focus

52:53 - Homecoming for Wahs

54:38 - Club Haka

01:00:07 - Can Wahs dominate NRL?

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Craig Field could be considered one of the most polarising figures in rugby league.

The diminutive halfback was told he was to small to ever play NRL yet went onto to play in 183 games - representing South Sydney, Manly and the Wests Tigers.

Fast forward to today and Field is putting his life back together after being sentenced to 10 years jail for the manslaughter of a man following a fight outside the Kingscliff Hotel on July 15, 2012.

In this episode of Chiming In, Field talks candidly about the day his life changed forever and his efforts to ensure people learn from his mistakes.

He also reflects on a football career which saw him debut for Souths as a 17-year-old, play for Manly in the 1997 grand final and later become part of a Wests Tigers outfit that was full of talent but failed to fire.

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

02:04 – Released from prison

02:53 – What is doing today

06:09 – Craig coaching

07:33 – Growing up

08:24 – Starting League

13:59 – Rabbitohs false start

16:44 – Souths debut

20:42 – Form flatlining

21:44 – 1994 “arrival” as a player

23:44 – Rough time growing up

26:12 – Blowing cash & regrets

29:09 – Balancing passion and gifts as a coach

33:30 – Credit to grassroots volunteers

39:32 – Tenure at Tigers

42:49 – Trouble with alcohol & drugs

46:36 – John Hopoate incident

49:04 – Kingscliff Hotel jailing

53:22 – Police arrest

01:01:39 – Motivational speaking

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He’s regarded one of the kindest, most humble and hard working people in rugby league.

Jason Clark is the first to admit he wasn’t the most gifted individual yet he boasts an NRL premiership and English Challenge Cup trophy among his finest achievements.

After a stellar 10 year stint with the Rabbitohs, Clark packed up the family and moved to England before putting the finishing touches on his career playing First Division in France.

Today, the former South Sydney lock forward, has returned to where it all began and now works as a Football Manager with the mighty Rabbitohs.

This interview will enlighten you as Clark shares the secrets of his success, the struggles he’s had to overcome and thrills and spills along the way.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

02:02 – What is a Football Manager?

05:10 – Welfare role

06:18 – FM disasters

10:58 – Travel for football teams

13:15 – Flights after serious injury

15:56 – Wearing the blue shirt

19:00 – Meals on the road

21:55 – What players can and can’t wear

23:44 – Johnny Sutton as a blue shirt

24:36 – Jason’s career

27:53 – Debut

31:13 – 2014 GF win

37:01 – Leaving Souths

41:23 – Joining Warrington Wolves

45:55 – Playing in France

53:18 – Souths in 2026

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Eddie Jones is one of the most polarising coaches world rugby. He has been head coach of three international rugby union teams - Australia, England and Japan. It’s a unique notch in his belt.

But it’s his love for rugby league which often catches people by surprise.

Growing up in La Perouse, Jones was an avid South Sydney Rabbitohs supporter and played rugby league as a youngster. One season as a kid, Jones went and watched every Souths game - home and away.

And while a switch of codes took him to greatness and world recognition, Jones today remains engrossed in the NRL and his love and passion for the game have never wained.

In this episode of Chiming In, Jones gives us an exclusive insight into why he remains an avid NRL fan.

He shares with us his top five rugby league stars who would make it in rugby and also tips us a couple of rugby stars who could just as easily switch to the NRL.

Jones also confirms how he still harbours a dream to be involved in the NRL either as a coach of Club administrator before he retires from sport.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

02:10 - Growing up with League

04:25 - Randwick Rugby

05:20 - Getting into coaching

06:40 - HC at 3 different nations

08:57 - Top 5 NRL to Union players

12:22 - Top 5 Union to League players

15:49 - What rugby has that league doesn't

19:19 - R360

21:02 - Zac Lomax

23:10 - Rugby in Japan

28:56 - Wallabies in 2026

32:45 - Money in Union

34:03 - Wallabies 2023 'mistake'

38:05 - Coaching NRL

43:39 - Coaching England

46:20 - Ball in play in NRL & Union

49:29 - League vs Union refs

50:28 - Being a teacher

52:50 - Japan retirement

53:39 - Sacking from Wallabies

57:10 - Joey Johns to Union

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Every youngster who laces a boot, dreams of debuting in the NRL and forging a career in the big time.

While so many fail to make the cut, there is an incredible amount of players who debuted yet only ever play just ONE game.

South Sydney’s Mick Bernie is one such player but he wouldn’t swap his moment for anything. And while Michael Buettner boats a truckload of NRL appearances, he too fits the one game wonder category after making one-off appearances for NSW and Australia.

With the help of masterful statistician David Middleton, this episode of Chiming In takes you inside the world of the one game wonders.

Hear how Berne remembers his debut as one of the best days of his life while Buettner still proudly showcases the jumpers and memories which can never be erased.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

01:37 – David intro

02:58 – David’s books

04:03 – How stats have changed

05:43 – One NRL game players

10:03 – Median number for NRL players

11:30 – Cam Smith’s record

12:58 – “New” stats to the game

14:59 – Mick Byrne intro

16:11 – Hearing “you’re in”

19:32 – The big game

26:18 – David's stats on Origin

30:37 – Cam Smith dominance

33:55 – Origin stats are different

36:42 – Michael Beuttner intro

38:49 – “Cattle Dog” call

44:19 – North Sydney Bears memories

47:11 – David on Test footy

50:17 – One Test players

54:34 – Michael Buettner on his one Test

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

04:20 - Fiji Flag  

05:30 - Storm losing players  

09:25 - Storm lost their bite?  

11:42 - Golden Boot winner  

15:02 - Injuries as a kid  

21:52 - Tigers player swap  

25:17 - Origin debut  

26:43 - Best ever Hooker?  

29:04 - Social media danger  

31:05 - Craig Bellamy  

33:45 - Storm army camp  

38:53 - AFL vs NRL  

40:30 - Captaincy  

43:07 - Grand Finals  

49:01 - Hobbies  

54:47 - Advice for kids  

56:05 - Rapid fire questions  

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Talented halfback Sean O’Sullivan fits the saying “rugby league journeyman” better than most.

At just 27 years of age, O’Sullivan has played NRL for six clubs - Roosters, Broncos, Warriors, Panthers, Dolphins and now the Bulldogs.

A hard working and skilful player, O’Sullivan has had to overcome multiple setbacks to make it to the top.

O’Sullivan is the son of leading recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan and has been around the game since he can remember. His knowledge is undeniable. His passion second to none.

In this episode of Chiming In, O’Sullivan shares his childhood memories and how his dream of playing at the highest level came to fruition.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

01:14 – New Club

02:51 – Son of a RL recruiter

10:10 – Dad moves to Roosters

12:06 – Footy takes off

15:18 – Dark times through injury

17:02 – Elite schoolboy player

18:28 – Signing with Roosters

22:48 – Signing with Broncos

27:57 – Signing with Warriors

31:14 – Moving to Penrith

35:46 – Moving to Dolphins

44:11 – Bulldogs

52:17 – Studying MBA

57:57 – Sean’s family

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Ken Callander is an Australian national treasure.

The legendary media personality warmed the hearts of millions of Aussies while successfully forging a career in print, television and the radio industry.

In this episode of Chiming In, Kenny shares some hilarious stories about his rise to fame from humble beginnings.

Highly respected, innovative and with a wicked sense of humour, Kenny reflects on numerous short stories which will entertain you from start to finish.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

04:08 – First memories of the race track

04:53 – Start in media

11:39 – Married for 58 years

14:14 – Wide World of Sports

16:29 – Kerry Packer’s bookie

23:18 – The 12th Man

28:45 – Love for NRL

33:04 – Great mates with Ray Warren

36:50 – How bookmaking has changed

40:58 – Mateship with PVL

42:34 – Jockeys & Trainers

46:04 – Melbourne Cups

56:56 – Writing a book

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At just 21-years-old, Max Jorgensen has already played 20 Test matches for the Wallabies.

Chased by NRL clubs, the talented youngster recently committed to Australian Rugby for five years.

Only two players - Michael Hooper and Loti Tuqiri - have previously signed similar long term deals.

Jorgensen’s decision to pledge his allegiance to rugby is just the beginning. 

In the episode of Chiming in, Jorgensen talks about his love for the game, his desire to help Australian Rugby become super successful and the reason why he turned his back on rugby league.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:04 - Highlights

01:17 - 5 year deal

04:38 - Peter Jorgensen

05:38 - Back to the beginning

09:11 - Lure to rugby union

13:13 - Training with Roosters

17:18 - Wallabies in WC

20:07 - Injury woes

25:11 - Test debut

27:48 - Best coaches

29:39 - Code hoppers

32:45 - Try against England

42:54 - Shute Shield

44:01 - Playing NRL

45:42 - R360

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Cam McInnes is a rugby league warrior.

Often photographed at the end of a match will a bloody face and missing teeth, the NSW State of Origin representative concession 2026 will be his swan song at the club.

And with a premiership window well and truly at Cronulla, McInnes is hoping to go out on a high.

Soon to return from reconstructive knee surgery, McInnes speaks openly about the recovery process, his plans for the future and why this could be the Year of the Shark.

He tells of his bumpy relationship with Russell Crow and how he was shown the door at his previous club St George Illawarra.

McInnes explains his plans to play for another few seasons and shares his thoughts on what might be on offer.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

00:05 - Highlights

01:36 - Off contract at Sharks

04:00 - ACL injury update

07:24 - Signing with Perth Bears

12:02 - Inside word on PNG

16:14 - Cam's TED Talk

17:50 - Mum & dad school teachers

21:33 - Cam's tackle record

26:37 - Tension at Bunnies

34:23 - Booted by Dragons

45:41 - Moving to Sharks

48:05 - Fight with Russell Crowe

52:20 - Cam as a father

58:25 - Playing Origin

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Shane Richardson stepped down at Wests Tigers CEO in December last year - just as the Club was finally finding its feet.

There were fears the highly regarded league official might have been lost to the game forever.

In this exclusive interview - his first since stepping aside - Richardson opens up on his love for the Tigers fanatical fans, his desire to get back into the game, why Benji Marshall is the right man to take the Club forward and why the NRL should buy the English Super League.

He also shares his thoughts on the futures of Jerome Luai and Jahream Bula.

It’s serious and at times hilarious and will leave you wanting more.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:58 - The day Richo resigned

04:04 - Benji as coach

05:09 - Jarome & Jahream

08:31 - Relationship with player agents

10:23 - Relationship with the media

14:11 - What is a 'good CEO'?

18:43 - Back to the beginning

27:05 - Sharks days

34:31 - Panthers days

37:52 - Rabbitohs days

43:29 - 201 Souths premiership

46:42 - Connection to Indigenous players

57:26 - Richo's future

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He’s considered one of the most feared yet respected front rowers in modern day rugby league.

Jared Waerea-Hargraves is the highest capped Sydney Rooster and boasts three premiership rings.

Last season, he left the NRL for a swan song in the English Super League and came up trumps - winning the Challenge Cup, League Leaders Shield and the Premiership.

In his first ever podcast appearance, JWH exclusively shares the highlights of an amazing career and reveals what drives him to success. He also shares how he turned his back on rugby union to become a legend of league.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:47 - Life ban!

03:14 - Going to Super League

14:11 - Playing Rugby Union

16:42 - Moving to Rugby League

17:51 - Love for the Roosters

26:37 - Playing with Superstars

31:08 - Trent Robinson

34:52 - Playing for NZ

38:33 - Working with Roosters Academy

42:08 - The Art of Being a Tough Man

49:41 - Rivalry with Spencer Leniu

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We're back for season two of Chiming In with a bang!

James Hooper tells all in this candid sit down interview with Chimes. He is extremely open and honest about his battles with alcoholism, his sacking from Fox, his 'love, hate' relationship with his father, finding ways to put money on the table, and gives us an exciting update!

We hope you enjoy.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:00 - The car crash

10:00 - Getting fired from Fox

13:54 - Finding work

16:50 - Getting help

22:44 - Hoop's alcoholism

28:35 - What happened in Vegas?

39:25 - A stern message for drink drivers

41:12 - Hoop's brand new show

45:46 - Missing RL?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Seven years of torment finally put to bed

AFTER seven long years, St George Illawarra star Jack Debelin has finally tasted justice.

Last week’s sentencing of the lead detective who oversaw the rape allegation case against him was convicted of perjury after lying to the court while giving evidence.

In this episode of Chiming In, Debelin speaks for the very first time.

He shares his fears and frustration throughout the trial process and the relief he felt when the charges were finally dismissed.

He talks about his love for the Dragons, his disappointment of not being offered a contract and his dreams of winning a premiership with his new club - Parramatta.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:43 - Speaking for the first time

04:29 - The day Jack was arrested

07:06 - Victim of No Fault Stand Down Policy

08:14 - Trails begin

12:10 - Police raid on Jack's home

15:09 - 'Top secret' Todd Greenberg meeting

17:22 - Psyche of a footballer

20:49 - Public & players throwing mud

24:00 - Testicular cancer diagnosis

26:05 - The day Jack was cleared

28:09 - First game back

31:04 - Love for the Dragons

34:48 - Heartbreak at leaving Dragons

41:27 - State of Origin & Kangaroos

43:05 - PNG connection

46:53 - Unconventional training

49:38 - Being a good father

50:05 - Caught having a BBQ during Covid

54:45 - Best coaches played under

58:26 - No premierships

01:02:05 - Singing the team song

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As a teenager the talented journalist could be found sitting on the hill whenever the St George Dragons had a home game at Kogarah Oval.

After falling in love with the game, Pitt reveals how she navigated a pathway into the media and hasn’t looked back.

Highly respected and well liked, Lara Pitt has become a household name in journalism since linking with Fox Sports almost 20 years ago.

In this episode of Chiming In, she shares her journey, her plans for the future and what it’s like working in what was once regard a male dominated industry.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:47 - How Lara got into RL

05:41 - Conflict when supporting a team

06:45 - Moving in front of the camera

11:00 - Weekly schedule for an RL journo

13:19 - Hosting Dally M

14:12 - Press conference challenges

20:13 - Dressing rooms as a female

26:39 - Getting barred by players & coaches

27:47 - Mentors in the game

29:21 - Women in League

31:12 - Lara's family life

36:44 - Love for Vossy

41:32 - Growth of the women's game

45:33 - Lara's charity work

48:02 - Tips for young journos

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Every rugby league player has a story but few have overcome more humble beginnings than dashing try scoring winger Ricky Walford.

Born and raised in Western NSW, Walford became a household name in the 1980s, plying his trade with Eastern Suburbs, North Sydney and St George.

In this episode of Chiming In, Walford talks openly about a his journey after being raised on a mission before finding his way to the bright lights of Sydney.

The way he articulates the challenges he overcame to get to the top will inspire you.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:18 - Back to the beginning

07:22 - Growing up in Walgett

10:24 - Getting professional with footy

15:13 - Making Australian Schoolboys

18:54 - The defining phone call

27:21 - Joining North Sydney Bears

30:53 - Moving to Dragons

40:02 - Roy Masters as a coach

41:01 - State of Origin & injury

43:36 - '92 & '93 GF appearances

45:46 - Tina Turner commercial

48:42 - Ricky Walford Shield competition

51:21 - Working for NSWRL

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brad Clyde can’t hide his excitement as his beloved Canberra Raiders storm towards their first premiership since 1994.

The former champion lock forward knows better than most what it takes to win a competition.

Rated as one of the best players of all time, Clyde burst onto the rugby league scene in the late 1980s before becoming a household name through the 1990s.

He played in three grand finals and was awarded the Clive Churchill medal on two occasions. He played a key role in Canberra’s 1989 grand final win over Balmain - which is regarded by many as the greatest grand final of all time.

In this episode of Chiming In, Clyde shares his thoughts on Canberra’s amazing charge to the top of the ladder this year and explains why his former team-mate Ricky Stuart was always going to become a super coach.

He also talks about his amazing career and some of the incredible characters he met along the way.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:25 - Raiders in 2025

02:00 - 2 x Clive Churchill medalist

03:40 - Sam Backo passing

05:28 - Being a movie star

07:26 - Tina Turner advert

09:00 - Horse riding accident

11:20 - Early days & AFL

13:55 - First grade debut

18:50 - 1989 GF memories

22:16 - 1994 GF memories

25:25 - Comparing past & present Raiders

28:29 - Canberra creating Super Coaches

33:25 - Moving to Bulldogs

36:57 - New corporate role

41:07 - Captaincy for Raiders & Australia

44:47 - Family of League Foundation

49:10 - Concessions for one club players

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bob McCarthy is considered one of the greatest rugby league players of all time.

He’s captained Australia, won premierships for Souths and was made a Member of the British Empire for his services to the sport.

In this episode of Chiming In, McCarthy shares stories of the Rabbitohs’ glory days where he played alongside greats like John Sattler, John O’Neill, Mike Cleary and Eric Simms.

He also speaks openly about the day he and his wife Judy almost lost their lives in the Black Summer bushfires in 2020.

A wonderful storyteller and an outstanding sportsman, McCarthy will entertain you about footy from yesteryear.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

03:11 - Back to the beginning

10:55 - 'Brutal game back then'

11:50 - South Sydney's mighty era

15:10 - Famous 1967 intercept

17:49 - Coached by Clive Churchill

19:50 - Rabbitohs super side

23:08 - 'Unlosable' 1969 GF

29:00 - John Sattler breaking his jaw

38:42 - Meeting Judy

40:15 - Huge losses in the fires

46:15 - Being sent off

52:18 - Coaching career

01:00:15 - Highlight of career

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Todd Carney was once the undisputed Bad Boy of the NRL.

Constantly in trouble with police, sacked by clubs and deregistered by the game - Carney struggled with an alcohol addiction and constantly found trouble.

But things have changed.

Two and a half years ago, the former Dally M Winner decided he needed help and checked himself into rehab in a desperate bid to save his relationship with partner Susie.

Today Todd Carney is living a healthy and happy life - giving back to the game and helping others.

In this episode of Chiming In, the former Canberra, Sydney Rooster and Cronulla star, shares his journey in a polarising discussion - leaving no stone unturned.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jada Taylor announced herself to the rugby league world on June 23, 2022 when she ran from try line to try line to score a game breaking try for NSW against Queensland in an Under 19s match.

If you haven’t seen it - you should google it.

Millions of fans viewed the try both here and abroad - even movie star Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson acknowledged her achievement.

FanaticsTV viewers might have already met Jada Taylor on Kenty Blitz, Footy For Real or Fox Sports where she is making a name for herself as an emerging media talent.

But who is this bubbly and energetic young lady who is regarded one of the most promising players in the NRLW.

On this episode of Chiming In, Jada Taylor shares her story. You will be entertained from start to finish as she takes a light hearted look at her career and her plans for the future.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:09 - Jada's famous try

09:10 - Origin camp

10:29 - Female heroes in league

16:49 - Growing up with RL

26:43 - Working in the media

28:18 - Women going full time in RL

31:49 - Jada's numerous injuries

34:33 - Pregnancy & the professional game

40:32 - Playing rugby sevens

48:50 - Fast questions

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Tommy Herschell is fast becoming one of the best known names in Australian sport. And he hasn’t had to make a tackle, sink a putt or wield the willow to catch the headlines.

The founder of a charity called Findyafeet - Tommy and his team run school, sporting and community based workshops for people young and old.

It provides a platform for people to tell their story, the skills to own their stuff and the tools to shift culture that’s been holding them back from speaking up for far too long.

Today rugby league stars Nico Hynes, Luke Lewis, Harry Grant, Sam Thaiday and Dale Finucane have all teamed with the charity to lend a hand.

Other famous athletes including Matthew Hayden, Sam Riley, Mitch and Shaun Marsh, Ky Hurst, Geoff Huegill and many others have also joined the cause.

This year Tommy has begun working with several NRL clubs and the results have been astounding.

You will be motivated and moved by this episode of Chiming In which brings a different but emotional perspective to life. Hopefully Tommy’s message may help you as you travel life’s journey.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:22 - What is Find Ya Feet?

04:32 - Back story to struggles

13:49 - Find Ya Feet ambassadors

21:08 - Workshops at schools

25:16 - Old school teaching for the better

28:37 - Feedback from schools

31:01 - Partnering with Matthew Hayden

34:55 - Partnering with Mitch Marsh

39:22 - Holding on to pain & suffering

42:09 - Working in the rugby league space

45:13 - Best advice to someone who is struggling

49:11 - Grand plan for Find Ya Feet

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Bob Tate is one of Sydney’s best known publicans - you name it, he’s seen it.

In the 1990s Tate owned and ran the Clovelly Hotel, deep in the heart of Sydney’s eastern suburbs. 

Rugby league, union, cricket, AFL and surf lifesaving stars would flock there - making it one of the best known sporting pubs in the country. Jockeys, trainers and bookmakers would also frequent the establishment.

In this episode of Chiming In, Tate shares countless yarns about the sports men and women who often walked a fine line with a belly full of beer.

The Sydney Morning Herald’s Roy Masters once described the pub as the headquarters of the NRL where all the big deals were done.

Tate’s recollection of the thrills and spills at the famous pub are enlightening and entertaining.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:10 - Claim to fame

07:10 - How Clovelly became THE pub for NRL

10:30 - Maroons meet the Blues at Clovelly

13:59 - Mad Monday's

16:10 - Banning sports stars

18:21 - Origin teams coming into the pub

21:38 - Which sport stars eat the most

25:39 - Most famous people in the pub

27:55 - The 'toilet' incident

31:05 - NSW Cricket team vs pub drinkers

35:45 - What makes a good publican

41:40 - RSA & the gray area

45:25 - Sport runs in the family

54:55 - AFL invasion and no space for junior RL

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Frank Ponissi is regarded the best general manager of footy on the business.

After dreaming of becoming an nrl player and later hoping to become a head coach, Ponissi’s journey took him into administration and he’s made every post a winner. Ponissi’s journey took him all over the world until I’m 2007 the Melbourne storm came knocking and he’s never looked back.

In this episode of chiming in - you will hear how the ponissi and Craig Bellamy combination is unbreakable. He talks of his intentions for the storm to continue to build a dynasty and how he and his coach crave success.

He also speaks candidly about the day he genuinely feared his coach was about to walk away from rugby league forever.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:10 - 1994 Kangaroo Tour

04:15 - Passion for coaching

06:55 - Becoming an administrator

09:35 - Tough questions about Bellamy

18:45 - The story behind the success of the Storm

21:30 - Storm recruiting process

24:10 - Junior RL in Melbourne

28:00 - 2011 season

30:25 - Bellamy and salary cap scandal

36:45 - Importance of grass roots

38:35 - Ryan Papenhuyzen

42:35 - Smith & Slater coaching club footy one day

45:25 - Laurie Daley & the Blues

52:55 - Players carrying injuries

55:15 - Going to AFL

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Nik Kosef is a rugby league warhorse.

No player in the history of the game has undergone four knee reconstructions - yet somehow the kid from Cobar kept climbing off the canvass.

In this revealing interview on Chiming In, Kosef takes the blame for Manly’s grand final loss to Newcastle in 1997 - and explains why he shoulders the burden for the loss.

It’s been an amazing roller coaster ride for the international back rower who hid his love of rugby league from his father when he was a child.

So how did a kid from Western NSW find his way to the big smoke and become one of the most gifted footballers of the modern era? Listen in as this popular character shares the tale of his early upbringing, his rise to stardom and the challenges and hurdles he’s faced after football.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:05 - Knee injuries & reconstructions

04:58 - Early days & family

08:48 - Rugby League in Cobar

15:25 - First noticed by scouts

19:40 - First knee injury

22:00 - Grand final memories

26:15 - Playing for Kangaroos

29:30 - How Nik describes himself as a player

30:35 - Battles with Manly

31:00 - Becoming a pub owner

38:27 - Going into the mines

41:42 - Security business

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He’s played, coached and is now considered one of the game’s best administrators.

Between all that, the man they call Gus has juggled a hugely successful media career.

So what makes Gus tick?

In this episode of Chiming In, Gould opens up on his journey, the highs and lows and shares some secrets of his success.

Hopefully you will learn something about Gus that you never knew before.

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Danny Weidler has been a rugby league journalist and television reporter for almost 40 years.

It’s been a crazy journey which has seen him experience plenty of highs and lows in the industry.

Recruited by Channel 9 chief David Gyngell, Weidler changed the way rugby league news was reported on TV - earning himself a reputation as hard nosed reporter who constantly broke big news stories.

In a very revealing and honest assessment of his career, Weidler explains what makes a good story, how he has made some enemies and what drives him to keep going.

It’s a fascinating listen as Weidler opens up on his life and love for rugby league.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:07 - How Danny got into journalism

06:52 - The art of cold calling

12:05 - Fall outs with Gus Gould

15:39 - Sonny Bill & Anthony Mundine

20:08 - Making enemies

23:39 - Big stories broken

35:02 - Trailblazer into TV journalism

43:57 - Being in the inner sanctum

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Former International Brett White almost walked away from the game he loved before his professional career began.

The powerful front rower embarked on his first pre-season with the Melbourne Storm 2005 when he and his team-mates were enrolled in a brutal army camp.

Exhausted and hallucinating, White admits he went searching for coach Craig Bellamy in the middle of the night to tell him the sport wasn’t for him.

In this episode of Chiming In, White shares how he managed to recover and go on to win two premierships with the Club as well as earn NSW and Australian honours.

Today White is an aspiring Coach and works alongside Des Hasler at the Titans as well as assisting with the NSW and Australian representative teams.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:43 - Cooma Colts

10:46 - Brett's injuries

13:21 - Melbourne Storm come knocking

15:07 - 'I quit footy'

23:55 - What makes Craig Bellamy so special

27:22 - Fight with Ben Ross

29:33 - Fight with Steve Price

31:20 - Bitten by Fuifui Moimoi

33:26 - Storm salary cap scandal

39:40 - Origin & Kangaroos

42:07 - Playing for Ireland

45:02 - Going to Raiders

46:43 - Moving into coaching

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Two of the game’s most powerful player agents Steve Gillis and David Riolo go toe to toe in a cutting and raw-edged debate about the world they live in.

The veteran agents - with almost 60 years experience in the industry between them - share their secrets, what it’s like working as an agent, the highs and the lows and the key to their success.

It’s a not to be missed episode of Chiming In which will give you an insight into player managers and the lives they lead.

The duo discuss all the big issues and answer questions such as should coaches be allowed to have agents, the minimum age for signing players, trade windows, recruitment and the many troubles players constantly face.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:44 - Former NRL star

06:59 - How the NRL regulates agents

08:42 - Galvin saga

14:00 - Agents for coaches

20:29 - Importance of good relationships with clubs

25:04 - The 'sell' to young players

29:44 - Language & culture barriers

32:16 - Evolution of the women's game

34:49 - Trade windows & drafts

41:38 - Crisis management with players

42:53 - Todd Carney bubbler

44:52 - Clubs big pitch to players

52:47 - Good day for an agent?

01:00:40 - Rules for acquiring new players

01:04:13 - NRL agent accreditation review

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Former Canterbury centre Ben Harris holds a unique record in rugby league having won back to back premierships in two hemispheres.

He is the only player in the game’s history to have done this - winning the 2004 NRL premiership with Canterbury and the English Super League the following year with Bradford.

After growing up on a dairy farm and finding his way to Sydney, Ben shares his experience of debuting as an 18-year-old, winning his first championship as a 20-year-old and then heading to play in England at age 21.

Injury saw him retire at aged 27 before he embarked on a new career - as a pilot.

Find out how a kid from Taree who failed to complete school, now flys commercial jet airlines and is loving life.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:44 - Back to back premierships

02:40 - Country upbringing

07:58 - Debut for Dogs

13:17 - Moving to Super League

20:03 - Coming back to Cowboys

21:43 - Becoming a pilot

31:48 - Scares while flying

41:30 - Still being connected to Dogs

43:31 - 2004 Dos scandal

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Sean Garlick has that Midas touch.

He’s worked as an actor, a professional rugby league player, a police officer, a sports commentator and now runs a hugely successful business - Garlo’s Pies.

Hard work and good fortune has seen Sean Garlick succeed beyond his wildest expectations.

In this episode of Chiming In, the former South Sydney and Roosters skipper, shares the secrets of his success - including how he stumbled into an acting career and almost became a jockey instead of a footy star.

He also shares his thoughts on the Bali Bombing - in which some of his closest friends perished - and explains how he escaped the explosion by sheer good fortune.

It’s compelling listening and a not be missed episode.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:54 - Growing up & rugby league

08:37 - Being a police officer & a professional footy player

14:19 - Going to South Sydney

16:02 - Joining the Roosters

22:40 - Back to Souths

28:28 - Acting career

34:08 - Bali bombings

41:17 - Starting Garlo's Pies

57:51 - Sean's son Bronson Garlick

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Ashton Sims boasts an imposing record, having played 368 professional games of rugby league.

Sims represented five clubs - St George Illawarra, Brisbane, North Queensland, Warrington and Toronto Canada during a 17 year career.

He debuted as an 18 year old, played for Country and Fiji and was regarded a hard working and imposing forward with a great off-load.

In this episode of Chiming In, Sims shares stories of his upbringing, how former Australian great Craig Young befriended and mentored him as a teenager, how Mick Cronin showed him the right path to follow in life and how he made countless friends throughout his journey.

Sims is today making a name for himself as a rugby league administrator and his best days in league might still be ahead of him.

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Max King was born to play rugby league. His great-grandfather, grandfather and dad all played first grade footy.

King's dream of following in their footsteps didn’t go to plan. In fact, it appeared all-but certain his career had come to a halt at the end of 2021 when an Achilles tendon injury failed to respond to treatment.

Frustrated and without a Club, King explains how he was ready to retire until Canterbury’s Phil Gould threw him a life-line and the rest is history.

King has now arrived as NSW State of Origin representative and may be be destined for greater honours.

In this episode of Chiming In, King explains what inspired him to rise off the canvass, the secrets to his success and his relationship with God.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:19 - State of Origin selection

02:29 - Footy in the blood

07:52 - How Max got into RL

10:04 - Junior footy career

15:28 - Going to Gold Coast Titans

18:03 - Moving to Melbourne Storm

25:40 - Achilles injury ending career?

30:54 - Being a devout Christian

38:07 - Meeting Christy at church

46:35 - Max's heart problem

51:27 - Bulldogs in 2025

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Currently the second highest point scorer in the history of the game, Reynolds has some big decisions to make regarding his future as clubs circle to lure him away from the Brisbane broncos

In this episode of chiming in - the premiership winning halfback talks about his future, his desire to coach in the NRL and what he considers to be the best day of his footballing career. It will surprise you.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:26 - Adam's fashion label

02:30 - New deal or retirement?

9:28 - Coaching after footy

15:09 - NFL dreams & kicking

25:50 - Sledging from fans

31:21 - Adam's tattoos

34:06 - Writing the book

37:38 - Playing for the Blues

40:08 - Wrestle with Pat

49:00 - PNG

51:43 - Broncos in 2025

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Few strength and conditioners can boast a resume as long or impressive as Ron Palmer.

The former Balmain rugby league player, found a career as a trainer shortly after retiring from football.

With over 50 years experience in rugby league, no-one knows sport like Palmer.

In this podcast he shares his highs and lows, secrets to success and talks about what every individual needs to do to get healthy.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:16 - Strength and Conditioning & self care

05:30 - Playing for Balmain

08:45 - P.E. teacher to S&C

12:04 - Becoming a cult hero

13:21 - Worst things seen on the field

19:48 - Players refusing to come off the field

26:55 - The 4 pillars of health

32:33 - Grand final appearances

36:25 - Funny footy moments

46:22 - Ronnie's different teams

50:04 - Working at Trinity College

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Greg Florimo is regarded one of the North Sydney Bears finest servants.

Having played a record 285 games for the Club, Florimo has been instrumental in North Sydney’s push for re-entering the NRL in partnership with a new Perth franchise.

Until now, the former NSW and Australian representative has been guarded about sharing his thoughts on the Bears potential re-instatement but today’s decision by the NRL Commission’s to rubber stamp their resurrection has opened the door for Florimo to finally celebrate.

Florimo speaks exclusively about the journey, the frustration and the joy he finally feels.

He also shares some great stories about his time at the club and talks about many of the great players and coaches he met along the way.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:20 - Bears are BACK!

03:49 - Who is the No. 1 Bear?

05:17 - The stress of getting the Bears back

12:10 - Bears debut & skateboarding accident

15:50 - Prelim finals

18:05 - Best coaches

19:20 - Jason Martin's hit single

20:40 - The impact of Peter Jackson

24:27 - Role at the Bears now

26:40 - Getting to 300 games

30:51 - Origin & Kangaroos

37:00 - North Sydney Oval

44:52 - Coaching

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Laurie Daley is one of the most highly regarded people in rugby league.

Daley is three time premiership winner, a former Nsw and Australian captain and one of the most competitive and dynamic players in the game’s history.

But the champion Canberra Raiders legend has unfinished business - that being ensuring NSW continues to shine at State Of Origin Combat

In this revealing interview, Daley talks about why he wanted to return at Blues coach, his plans his beloved State and his burning ambition to ensure an Origin whitewash.

Listen on as Daley shares his inner thoughts and plans for NSW’s upcoming State of Origin series attack.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:14 - How Chimes became Laurie's manager

03:40 - Why Origin again?

07:29 - Laurie's Origin record

16:30 - 2025 Origin campaign has begun

25:19 - What makes an Origin player

31:03 - Craig Bellamy assisting

36:37 - Horse riding Origin camp

40:01 - Plans to unsettle QLD coach

42:53 - Origin eligibility debate

48:03 - Picking a captain

53:14 - Raiders days

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Tarryn Aiken is regarded as the best female rugby league player in the World.

Recently named the Golden Boot Winner, Aiken has dominated at NRLW and representative level for the past few seasons.

But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing for the 25-year-old Queensland representative with Aiken having to overcome family tragedy to achieve all her goals.

In this episode of Chiming In, the champion five-eighth shares her high and lows, achievements and setbacks and reveals what got her through some of her most challenging moments.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mose Masoe was told he would never walk again after breaking his neck while playing in the English Super League.

The former Sydney Roosters, Penrith Panthers and St George Illawarra Dragons representative, underwent a life saving operation before embarking on a remarkable road to recovery.

Mose speaks at length about he re-built his life and managed to defy doctors - making a miraculous recovery to regain the ability to walk.

It’s an inspirational story of courage, love and happiness and it will inspire you.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:20 - The spinal injury

07:11 - Life saving surgery

09:17 - Rehab begins

13:59 - Coming home

15:56 - Learning to walk again

22:07 - Uber driving

27:40 - Footy career

33:46 - Trouble with the law

42:01 - Playing in the Super League

43:15 - Interest in welfare

47:57 - Knee injury & mental health

1:02:15 - Mose's kindness

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The veteran journalist is in his 50th year of covering the game and shares some of the highlights of his career with Steve 'Chimes' Gillis in this edition of Chiming In.

Rothfield talks about the day he suffered a massive heart attack, and was lucky to survive. He reflects on the Super League War and tells of some of his personal clashes with several of the game's most high profile people.

It's Rothfield like you've never heard him before and is a must listen.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

02:08 - Early life

8:00 - Buzz's heart attack

15:14 - The stink with Scomo

19:40 - The stink with Sterlo

22:59 - Ups & downs with Phil Gould

25:38 - Stouch with Warren Ryan

30:30 - Kenty's departure from 360

40:41 - 'What's the Buzz?'

43:37 - Saving Dean 'Bulldog' Richie's life

46:45 - The pressures of Vegas

54:00 - What makes a good journo?

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Super League wars, player sacking & gaol time plus everything in between, Steve 'Chimes' Gillis has been at the centre of everything Rugby League for the past 45 years.

From his start as a copy boy for News Ltd to time at the 'bible' Rugby League week before starting as a player agent on the eve of the Super League war.

Chimes opens up about the good times and the bad this time as a guest on his own show.

One of the sports good guys and true gentleman of the NRL and sports agent world, you will love getting to know Chimes in this episode.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:25 - 'Chimes' nickname origin

02:05 - Childhood

08:55 - Early days at News Limited

12:30 - Reporting on rugby league in the 80's and 90's

17:40 - Transition to player manager

26:40 - The emergence of Super League

37:07 - Highs and lows of management

43:07 - Thoughts on NRL's no-fault stand down policy

52:45 - English Super League

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He’s larger than life and has entertained rugby league fans on and off the field for more than 50 years.

Darryl “The Big Marn” Brohman opens up on footy, life, love and how he is indebted to the game of rugby league.

A premiership winning forward and Queensland Rothmans Medal winner, Brohman has entertained fans for many years on radio and television.

Brohman’s love of life will have you chuckling as he shares countless yarns about his experiences and ups and downs.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:40 - Early life

09:40 - Playing for Penrith

13:28 - Moving to Canterbury Bulldogs

21:08 - GF Memories

23:25 - 'The origins of 'the 'Big Maarn' nickname

28:57 - Relationship with Wayne Bennett

32:58 - Punting with Terry Lamb

38:42 - Media Career

41:10 - Prostate cancer diagnosis

46:32 - Footy Show yarns

54:41 - Love for Bali

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Nathan Gibbs had never really given any thought to becoming a doctor until after he received his HSC results. The emerging rugby league star decided he would attempt to juggle a career in sport while studying medicine at university.

Gibbs went on to captain South Sydney and represented City before having a season with the powerhouse Parramatta Eels in the 1980s.

Today he is regarded one of Australia’s premier sports medics and has worked with South Sydney and Manly rugby league clubs as well as the NSW and Australian teams. He has also diversified - teaming with the Sydney Swans and Australian Rugby Union.

In this heart warming interview, Gibbs shares his stories including the sacrifices he made to become a doctor and the day he ruled Wally Lewis out of a Kangaroo tour.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:37 - How Gibbs became a doctor

07:57 - Joining South Sydney

11:49 - '81 Tooth Cup

16:36 - Retiring at 2 years of age

22:32 - South Sydney Sport Medicine Centre

29:37 - Working for the Swans

30:23 - Most courageous player & worst injuries seen

36:21 - Origin hit up and it's danger

39:11 - Ruling Wally Lewis out of Kangaroos

49:53 - Sending injured players back on

51:40 - Friendship with Rod Churchill

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Former rugby league star David Gillespie is regarded one of the toughest players ever to lace a boot but he also boasts a softer side.

Gillespie opens up to Steve Gillis on life, love and footy and reveals how he checked himself into Rehab after a poker machine addiction derailed his life.

He also reveals how he lost a finger in a work accident and defied doctors orders to return to the sport he loved.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

01:00 - Life now

04:39 - Retirement

06:42 - Dave's gambling addiction

14:42 - Struggles with health & fitness

17:05 - Friendship with Terry Hill

23:00 - Growing up in Narromine

28:25 - Debut in '84

31:59 - Loosing a finger

42:24 - Dave's Grand Final memories

45:12 - Joining Wests

50:40 - Bob Fulton

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Blake Steep is regarded one of the most promising young rugby league players in the business. He’s also an adventurer, who together with his dad Brent, often delve into the ocean or the bush to fish or hunt.

Steep tells Steve Gillis of an adventure gone wrong when his dad has a heart attack while spearfishing and he has pull out all stops to save his life. The young Sydney Roosters forward hears his father’s last words but refuses to surrender and somehow miraculously saves his life.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Start

04:51 - Scotts College & Zach Fittler

06:35 - Growing up in Port Macquarie

13:17 - Blake saving his father's life

37:06 - Dad's condition now

47:46 - Blake's debut for the Roosters

52:54 - Blake's first try

56:00 - Wrestling at the Roosters

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With 264 first-grade appearances, 3 Premierships, 4 Grand Final Appearances, 3 World Club Challenges, 4 Minor Premierships, and 1 Origin appearance, Jake Friend has cemented himself as a Roosters and NRL legend. But it hasn't all been smooth sailing.

Sacked by the Sydney Roosters as a 19 year old after repeated indiscretions with the law, Friend took up a job cutting vegetables and making coffee in a sandwich shop before returning to the game and winning three premierships for the Roosters.

Friend tells Steve Gillis what drove him to his miracle comeback, how he takes full responsibility for his actions and how he miraculously avoided death following a rib injury suffered in a match.

TIMECODES:

02:06 - Early career

04:13 - Jake's indiscretions with the law

19:33 - Mentors through tough times

25:55 - Life now for Jake

35:13 - Grand Finals

36:53 - Roosters Academy

38:34 - State of Origin

45:23 - Jake's concussions

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Decorated sports journalist Paul Kent is one of the most polarising figures in the Australian media.

As the face of Fox Sports' flagship program NRL 360, Kent had the world at his feet until consecutive run-ins with the law triggered his demise.

Now on the comeback trail, the award winning journalist breaks his silence with Steve Gillis about the hurdles he’s had to overcome and his plans for the future.

Kent recalls how he defended and beat domestic violence charges before a street fight with a stranger led to his sacking. Kent also explains why he has no intention of apologising for a bust-up he had with Radio MMM host Anthony Maroon.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.