Marlee and Me

Olympic BMX champion Saya Sakakibara joins Marlee Silva after giving her a firsthand lesson on the track.

Saya opens up about the perfectionism that affected her home World Championships, the complicated emotions surrounding her silver medal, and the question she faced after winning Olympic gold: what now?

She also reveals how fear once made racing unbearable, why admitting she wanted to win Paris felt almost impossible, and how changing the way she spoke to herself transformed both her performance and her life.

Plus, Saya discusses the road to LA 2028, the possibility of competing at Brisbane 2032 and her brother Kai’s emerging Paralympic dream.

00:00 Welcome to Marlee and Me
01:30 Marlee takes on the BMX track
02:30 Sitting down with Saya Sakakibara
04:05 Perfectionism and the pressure to win
06:03 Learning to stop chasing perfection
07:55 The World Championship race that was cancelled
10:43 How the international BMX circuit works
12:53 Could Saya compete at Brisbane 2032?
13:45 Life after winning Olympic gold
15:37 How Saya has changed since Tokyo
18:59 The transformation behind the gold medal
21:25 Confidence without winning
23:24 The hypnotist who helped Saya believe
25:37 Beginning the road to LA 2028
28:00 Why Saya considered retiring
29:10 Kai Sakakibara’s Paralympic dream
30:21 Becoming a role model for BMX
33:26 Giving others confidence
35:40 Strength, body image and inspiring girls
36:37 Final reflections
37:08 Marlee’s closing message

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Welcome back to Marlee and Me, storytelling beyond the scoreline.

Yaama I’m Marlee Silva and if you’re new here this is a sports podcast unlike the kind you’re used to. These are conversations that get to the heart of your favourite athletes.

This year, I’ve had the great pleasure of sitting down with so many of our NRL and NRLW athletes through my role with 100% Footy and other parts of our broadcast with Nine’s WWOS and over the next couple of weeks you’ll get to hear the raw extended version of these chats in compilation style episodes that focus on one club or one theme - today, it’s the Gold Coast Titans.

I sat down with three of their key figures before 2026 kicked off. With a brand new head coach, a newly committed captain and some up and coming superstars, the side was optimistic but realistic. 

Today you’ll hear from head coach Josh Hannay, Captain Tino Fa’asuamalaui and fullback, Keano Kini. And while they all share something different, the theme that is at the heart of the titans is clear as day, this is a club that is passionate about its community.

Thank you so much to Josh, Tino and Keano, for sharing parts of your story in this episode of Marlee and Me. Tune in next week as we hear from another group of players from a different club!

If you enjoyed the show make sure you hit subscribe wherever you’re listening, follow @marleeandmepod for more and I’ll catch you next week.

This episode of Marlee and Me was recorded on the lands of the Gadigal people, we pay our respects to elders past and present. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to Marlee and Me, storytelling beyond the scoreline.

Marlee Silva is back for a 4th season of her powerful podcast that features some of Australia’s most beloved rugby league stars!

If you’re new here this is a sports podcast unlike the kind you’re used to. There’s no game analysis, we’re not worried about the highlight reel or the stats. These are conversations that get to the heart of your favourite athletes.

This year, Marlee’s new role with Nine’s 100% Footy, has seen her sit down with many more NRL and NRLW players, so for the back end of the 2026 footy season we’ll be dropping the raw extended version of these chats in a couple of mega episodes if you like it!

This episode is Part 2 of 2, pulling back the curtain on some of the stars of the Melbourne Storm. 

A few months ago, Marlee received a phone call from the Melbourne Storm informing her that they were gearing up for their first ever Mental Health focused game - they wanted to start a conversation, destigmatise talking about mental ill health and encourage their fans to check in with each other. 

So she headed down to Melbourne to sit down with the 3 players nominated as ambassadors for the inaugural ‘Tackling Tough Together’ game: Josh King, Will Warbrick and Alec McDonald.

What they shared is raw, honest and delivered with a passion for ensuring others—fans of the game or not—know they aren't alone and that help is out there.

If you are struggling or this conversation brings anything up for you, reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14, or for any mob seeking culturally safe support, 13 YARN is available too.

Tune in next week, as we hear more heart-led reflections from star players and their head coach, from the Gold Coast Titans. 

This episode of Marlee and Me was recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri people, we pay our respects to their Elders past and present. As a proud Gamilaroi and Dunghutti woman, Marlee embodies the spirit of her people in every conversation, honouring their 60 thousand year long tradition of oral storytelling, for connection, understanding and empathy. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land. 

Follow @marleeandmepod on Instagram for more!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to Marlee and Me, storytelling beyond the scoreline.

Marlee Silva is back for a 4th season of her powerful podcast that features some of Australia’s most beloved rugby league stars!

If you’re new here this is a sports podcast unlike the kind you’re used to. There’s no game analysis, we’re not worried about the highlight reel or the stats. These are conversations that get to the heart of your favourite athletes.

This year, Marlee’s new role with Nine’s 100% Footy, has seen her sit down with many more NRL and NRLW players, so for the back end of the 2026 footy season we’ll be dropping the raw extended version of these chats in a couple of mega episodes if you like it!

Our first episode is part 1 of 2, that pull back the curtain on some of the stars of the Melbourne Storm. 

2026 has served this side something unexpected - a losing streak, injury crisis and off-field heartbreak like their beloved coach, Craig Bellamy’s, diagnosis of a neurological disorder. 

In this 1st part, we’ll go back to hear where some of their stars were at before this season kicked off, how they reflected on the difficult end to 2025 and some insights on the club culture at one of the most revered clubs in the NRL.

Today you’ll hear from: 

Tune in on Thursday for Part 2 of this Storm series, which captures an important conversation with 3 more Melbourne stars as they speak on destigmatising mental health and their lived experiences.

This episode of Marlee and Me was recorded on the lands of the Gadigal people, we pay our respects to their Elders past and present. As a proud Gamilaroi and Dunghutti woman, Marlee embodies the spirit of her people in every conversation, honouring their 60 thousand year long tradition of oral storytelling, for connection, understanding and empathy. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.

Follow @marleeandmepod on Instagram for more!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marlee sits down with two of the NRLW's most influential figures, Corban Baxter and Kiana Takairangi, to discuss a journey that started on the playing field and evolved into a shared business and community mission.

The duo—who grew up together and share a deep, personal bond—candidly discuss the future of the women's game, sharing their vision for the next generation of players and the league's growth. They reveal what it's like to run a business together while juggling elite sporting careers.

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Marlee sits down with the dynamic NRLW and former Olympic Rugby Sevens star Emma Verran (née Tonegato) for a raw and honest conversation about identity, pressure, and never being satisfied.

Emma opens up about celebrating a recent wedding anniversary and how her family history, including her Italian roots, shaped her. She bravely discusses her decision to change her surname, sharing her deeply personal rationale: "Who I am on the field, isn't who I am off it."

Emma gets candid about her drive, discussing the motivation she found in not being selected for Origin, her surprise at winning a Dally M, and the shift in perspective that comes with age. Finally, she reflects on the positive influence of her husband, Jamie, and the profound lessons learned from her skin cancer scare. This is a must-listen on what drives one of the toughest competitors in women's sport.

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Broncos, Queensland, and Australia legend Sam Thaiday, who connects his Torres Strait Islander heritage to his career success; and respected Pasifika consultant David Lakisa, who works tirelessly to validate the unique cultural identities of athletes joins Marlee for an in depth chat.

Together, they offer a deep, moving discussion on the vital intersection of culture, community, and elite sport, exploring why embracing Māori and Pasifika voices is crucial for athlete well-being and the future of the game.

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Josh Kerr (or as he has become to be known as 'The Microwave man') is one of the biggest characters in the NRL.

As a proud Quandamooka man from the Moreton Bay region, Josh opens up about navigating his path and understanding his place in the world, influenced profoundly by his family and community. 

We delve into how his cultural roots and the significance of the Indigenous All Stars experience helped him forge a strong sense of self, shaping him into the passionate player and advocate we know – someone who brings his whole identity to every game.

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Gayle Broughton, has an incredible story rooted in her Māori identity and her journey from Hawera, New Zealand. 

She opens up about the unique challenges she faced growing up and how her whānau played a vital role in guiding her towards sport. 

That journey led her to incredible heights, like winning Olympic medals with the Black Ferns, to the devastating lows like losing her best friend at a young age, and how close she came to calling it quits.

Gayle shares how her background shaped her into the powerful athlete she is today, always grounded by her heritage.

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Lewis Brown, a true veteran of the NRL with nearly 200 games and a proud Kiwi international. Lewis's journey through professional rugby league was defined by resilience, both on and off the field, profoundly shaped by his family and Māori heritage. 

He shares candidly about the significant moments in his life that impacted his perspective and personal identity, particularly during and after his impressive career with the Warriors, Panthers, and Sea Eagles.

Brown successfully transitioned from a celebrated athlete to an entrepreneur, starting his clothing brand, Earls, which reflects his post-football passion for design and street culture. 

His story is a powerful reflection on finding your footing and maintaining your sense of self through the highs and lows of elite sport and life beyond the game.

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Olivia Kernick, is an NRLW Dally M Medalist and a dominant force for the Sydney Roosters and Jillaroos. 

Olivia's rapid rise from a junior on the Central Coast to the elite level is a testament to unwavering dedication. She opens up about the immense support and values instilled by her family, which she credits as fundamental to her success. 

We chat about how that strong foundation shaped her intense work ethic and deep connection to her team, making her not just a formidable player, but a true leader on the field for both club and country. It's a look at how personal identity and family grounding lead to consistent excellence.

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From growing up in Macksville to becoming one of the most dominant players in NRL history, Greg Inglis’ journey is one of talent, resilience, and deep cultural pride.

He opens up about his roots, the challenges of moving away from home, and the values his family instilled in him.

We also dive into the toughest period of his life—his struggles with mental health, addiction, and the road to recovery.

Greg shares how he found purpose through the Goanna Academy and the lessons he wishes he could tell his younger self.

It’s an open, powerful, and deeply personal conversation.

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Jahrome Hughes has developed into one of the most composed and skillful playmakers in the game.

From growing up in New Zealand to becoming a premiership-winning NRL star to being a Dally M winner—this story is worth a listen.

We dive deep into the role his family and culture have played in shaping him, exploring his identity as a proud Māori man and the values instilled in him from a young age.

Jahrome opens up about the challenges he’s faced along the way, the sacrifices his family made for his career, and the resilience that has defined his path to the top.

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Joe Tapine from the Canberra Raiders is a powerhouse.

From growing up in Wellington to making his mark in the NRL, Joe’s journey is one of resilience and growth.

He opens up about his family, the challenges of moving to Australia, and the harsh lessons he learned along the way. 

Joe opens up candidly about his pokies addiction early on in his footballing career and how his wife, Kirsten guided him down the right path.

We also chat about his Māori heritage, how the All Stars camp deepened his cultural connection, and how fatherhood has changed his perspective on life and footy.

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Will Warbrick is one of the most exciting rising stars in the NRL.

Hailing from New Zealand, he comes from a proud Māori background and first made his mark in rugby sevens, winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics.

His transition to rugby league with the Melbourne Storm has been nothing short of impressive, showcasing his athleticism, strength, and natural try-scoring ability.

With a unique journey across two codes, Will brings a fresh perspective to the game and continues to grow as a key player in the NRL.

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Valentine Holmes is one of the NRL’s most dynamic and versatile players.

Born in Townsville with proud Cook Island heritage, he made his mark early with the Cronulla Sharks, playing a key role in their historic 2016 premiership win.

Known for his speed, skill, and game-changing ability, Val has represented Queensland and Australia at the highest level.

His journey also took him to the U.S., where he pursued an NFL dream before returning to the NRL with the North Queensland Cowboys.

Now a leader on and off the field, he continues to inspire with his passion and dedication to the game.

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Marlee is joined by one of the biggest current family names in rugby league - Tom, Jake and Ben Trbojevic. 

Known for their talent, toughness, and humility, the boys open up about family, culture, and the journey from playing footy in the backyard to representing their club, state, and country.

It’s a chat about brotherhood, sacrifice, and what drives them both on and off the field.

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At just 26 years old, Nathan Cleary already boasts three premiership titles, state and national representation, and is widely regarded as one of the best in the game.

In this final episode of Marlee and Me Season 1, Nathan welcomes us into his childhood home, which he purchased from his parents a few years ago.

Growing up with a father who was an NRL coach and quickly catching the attention of fans, Nathan has been in the spotlight since his teenage years. Surprisingly, he opens up more than expected in this conversation, offering a rare, candid glimpse into his life.

Throughout this podcast series, it has become clear that family plays a central role in shaping the greats, and Nathan is no exception. The lessons from his parents and the deep love and responsibility he feels for his siblings provide insight into his drive to succeed.

You will also hear about the unexpected emotions Nathan experienced during his recent hamstring injury and the pressures of having the country invested in his relationship with Mary Fowler.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Dharug people.

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Widely regarded as one of the best to ever play the game, and recently inducted into the NRL’s Hall of Fame, Johnathan Thurston is an icon. 

Famous for his 2015 grand final field goal, his uncanny ability to curve conversions from the sideline, and his infectious laugh.

Today, beyond his legendary footy career, we explore his life, fatherhood, family, and finding pride in his identity as an Aboriginal man.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples.

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Connor Watson, Roosters and Blues star, co-founded the nonprofit Cultural Choice Association, which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children by helping them access mental health resources.

The organisation gained attention during the NRL’s Indigenous round with football boots featuring Aboriginal art. Over the years, Cultural Choice Association has made a significant impact on the younger generation, with Watson being recognised for his dedication both on and off the field.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Gadigal people.

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One of the most exciting wingers in the NRL, the Cronulla Sharks’ Ronaldo Mulitalo has made a name for himself through his try scoring acrobatics and a passion on the field that sometimes boils over and gets under his opponents skin. 

Off the field, he’s larger than life! A true extrovert that describes himself as someone who gets his energy from being around his teammates and having a good time. 

But Ronny’s path to his NRL dream has been anything but smooth and easy. Growing up in South Auckland before moving with his family to Queensland for a better life, Ronny spent some of his childhood homeless and sleeping in the leaky garage of a family friend's home. There were dark times and plenty of uncertainties but it was the fearlessness and strength of his Mum which was the guiding light for Ronny and his siblings through it all. 

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Dharawal people, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

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In this episode we sit down with Brisbane Broncos forward Jordan Riki. 

Jordan’s journey from growing up in New Zealand to making his mark in the NRL is nothing short of inspiring. 

We’ll dive deep into the role his family and culture have played in shaping the man he is today. We’re also lucky enough to have Jordan’s Grandfather or Koroua join us for a yarn.

We also discuss the challenge Jordan faced after losing his close mate Liam Hampson.

Get ready for an honest and heartfelt conversation about life, legacy, and the passion that drives Jordan both on and off the field.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Toorabul and Yuggera peoples, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kalyn Ponga, superstar fullback at the Newcastle Knights.

2023 Dally M Medalist, a sporting prodigy who, at the age of 15 was being head hunted by six clubs across three different sports.

That story is the one most rugby league fans have heard of. This isn’t that story.

Kalyn Ponga, the proud Maori man, the big brother, the loyal friend the proud son

That’s who you’ll hear from in this episode.

Sitting in his lounge room, accompanied by his beloved Aussie Shepard, Sadie.

With an open heart, generosity and vulnerability, Kalyn tells me his story.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Awabakal people, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.