The Rugby Pod
The Rugby Pod, hosted by Big Jim Hamilton, Andy Goode, Dan Biggar, and Producer Rob, is the world's most listened-to rugby podcast. It covers the latest news, rumors, insights, and stories from the rugby world, featuring interviews with current and former internationals. The show balances humor and opinions with in-depth analysis, and encourages listener interaction via social media.
Episodes
#5 Are Cricket Scores Good for Rugby? Leinster return Home & NFL star joins rugby club
We're back to break down a weekend of action, including Saints and Bath combining for a 119 points result and sparking a debate: are cricket scorelines good for rugby? We look at Leicester’s comeback thriller against Gloucester, Leinster’s return to the RDS, the All Blacks dismantling Australia and the Springboks making their presence felt in the URC, with the Stormers and Bulls laying down seriou
#4 New Blood at URC & Prem Summit, Bath’s Revenge and Pat Lam on Bristol’s Flying Start
Gloucester top the Prem, the Sharks lead the URC and The Dragons and Edinburgh are unbeaten, who predicted that pre season?! Jim, Goodey and Biggs break down Bath's 40-34 win over Exeter, Edinburgh continue their strong start to the season, Munster return to winning ways, Gloucester's 48-0 thrashing of Quins, Sale's revenge at Saracens and a wild 33-33 draw between Glasgow and Ulster. Bristol Dire
#3 Club Rugby Off to a Flyer and Wallabies Shock the Boks in CHAOS!
Domestic rugby is back with a bang, and the lads are across an absolutely chaotic opening weekend. Jim reflects on pulling the boots back on for the 745 Game and picking up a broken thumb, before we dive into Saracens’ 12-try thriller against Leicester, big opening wins for Glasgow and Edinburgh, Gloucester ending their 12-year wait at Sandy Park and Louis Rees-Zammit lighting it up for Bristol. P
#2 Prem & URC Season Preview: Big Transfers, Predictions & Craig Doyle
The domestic season is almost here, so the lads are back with a massive preview of the Prem and URC. Jim and Goodey run through all the big summer moves, the teams to watch and make their predictions for the season ahead. TNT Sports’ Craig Doyle joins us to chat all things Prem and the powerful new Lewis Moody vs MND documentary, which he co-produced alongside Brian O’Driscoll. Plus, there’s plent
#1 Pod is Back! Pre-Season, How to Stop the Boks, England’s Gamble & Season Predictions
The Rugby Pod is BACK for Season 11! Jim, Goodey, Bigs and Producer Rob catch up on a massive summer of rugby, starting with South Africa sealing the Greatest Rivalry series 3–1 over the All Blacks. The lads debate whether the Springboks are now untouchable and what the rest of the World needs to do to close the gap. We also get stuck into Steve Borthwick’s new England deal and his revamped Elite
#48 Season Finale, England's Revenge in Argentina, Red Mist & Missed Red Cards, and Nations Champ Verdict
The Nations Championship delivered a final weekend of chaos as England survived a seven-card thriller against Argentina, with controversial calls, post-match bust-ups and massive performance from Manny Feyi-Waboso dominating the fallout. The lads debate whether England’s successful tour has eased the pressure on Steve Borthwick, assess Ireland’s costly collapse against the All Blacks at Eden Park
#47 Scotland Reveal Blueprint to Challenge Boks, England Thrash Fiji and Ireland Target Eden Park History
Scotland push the Springboks to the limit and may have revealed a blueprint for troubling the world champions, but a second-half surge by the Boks leaves them wondering what might have been. England stop the rot with an 11-try demolition of Fiji, although questions remain over how much the result really tells us ahead of Argentina. Bigs breaks down Wales’ reality check against Los Pumas and the da
#46 Boks Batter England, Ireland’s Thriller Down Under, Scotland Fly & John Smit Joins
We break down a blockbuster opening round of the Nations Championship, with Ireland edging a thriller against Australia, Scotland lighting it up in Argentina, Wales finally finding back-to-back wins, and South Africa overpowering England at Ellis Park. The lads dig into the big tactical talking points, from Ireland’s grit and Scotland’s attacking threat to England’s lack of direction and Borthwick
#45 North v South - Nations Championship Preview, Bok Mind Games & 500 Not Out
We're celebrating our 500th episode as international rugby returns with the inaugural Nations Championship. We preview all the big North v South clashes, including England’s daunting trip to Ellis Park to face the Springboks, an injury-hit Ireland heading to Australia, Scotland’s shot at revenge against Argentina, Wales taking on a dangerous Fiji side in Cardiff, and France’s weakened squad facing
#44 Saints Crowned Kings of the Prem & Leinster Batter The Bulls in URC Finale
The lads unpack a massive weekend of finals rugby as the Northampton Saints are crowned champions of England and Leinster go back to back! We get stuck into how Saints proved they’re more than just razzle dazzle, grinding out a proper final win over a very good Exeter side, with George Hendy coming up clutch yet again and Henry Pollock continuing his takeover as the main character. Hendy joins the
#43 Prem Semi Shockers: Exeter Rebuild, Saints Attack on Fire, From Bottom to Top with Callum Chick & a FIERY URC Final
Prem Rugby delivered absolute chaos this weekend as Exeter Chiefs pulled off one of the great playoff comebacks, overturning a 16-point deficit to stun Bath at The Rec and book a place in the Premiership Final. We break down Rob Baxter's masterclass, Northampton Saints’ attack on fire against Leicester Tigers and preview a cracking final at Allianz Twickenham this weekend.
Joining us this week
#42 Inside England’s Dressing Room with Cadan Murley, Prem Top 4 Down to the Wire & URC Semi’s Scraps
The Prem season went down to the absolute wire but we have our semi finals locked in as Northampton Saints host Leicester Tigers and Bath face Exeter Chiefs at the Rec. One step ahead of the Prem, the URC has its finalists with Leinster edging the Stormers and Bulls completing a shocking comeback against Glasgow to earn a shot at silverware at Croke Park. Jim, Goodey & Producer Rob break down all
#41 Shaun Edwards Shock, State of Origin, Prem Playoffs & URC Semi Showdowns
Plenty to get stuck into as the URC semi-finals are locked in, the Premiership top-four race goes down to the final day, and rugby delivers drama everywhere you look. Bigs, Goodey and Jim chat State of Origin lessons, Shaun Edwards’ shock France exit rumours, Newcastle Red Bulls’ All Blacks contract drama saga, creator rugby selling out stadiums in France, giant South African schoolboy signings, a
#40 France Sweep Europe, Leo Under Pressure, Spying Scandals & Diamond’s Crisps Rant
French rugby takes centre stage this week after a dominant EPCR finals weekend, with Bordeaux-Begles battering Leinster 41-19 to claim the Champions Cup and Montpellier beating Ulster 59-26 in the Challenge Cup. The lads dig into how the Top 14 has opened up a serious gap on the URC and the Premiership teams, what went wrong at Leinster, whether Leo Cullen is under pressure, and how teams can brid
#39 URC Race to 8, Doping Scandals & Rugby Reset Rumours
It’s a massive week as the lads react to the URC quarter-finals being locked in, Glasgow’s statement win in Belfast, Cardiff’s huge result over the Stormers and Connacht emerging as dark horses. We look ahead to the Champions Cup final in Bilbao and whether Leinster can topple Bordeaux. We also ask whether rugby has a growing drug problem after major bans in Georgia and South Africa. We dive into
#38 RFU Back Borthwick, URC Play-Off Race Heats up, Leicester Smash Saints
This week on The Rugby Pod, the lads dive into the RFU backing Steve Borthwick despite England’s worst Six Nations in 50 years, as questions continue to be asked about direction. There’s plenty of beef across the Premiership and URC with Saracens finding form, Leicester battering Northampton, Leinster eyeing top spot and controversy everywhere from croc rolls to red cards and VAR. Plus club takeov
#37 Broadcast Bias - Controversy Rocking Rugby and Leinster & Ulster Return to Finals
European rugby finally delivered the chaos it’s been promising. Bigs joins Jim and Goodey to break down a weekend of semi-final action, with two blockbuster finals now locked in. From Bordeaux’s ruthless efficiency dismantling Bath, to the growing controversy around French TV coverage and TMO decision-making, there’s plenty to get stuck into.
Leinster grind out a statement win over Toulon, show
#36 The Champ Story You Need to Hear and URC & Prem Title Races Blown Wide Open
The lads are back in studio covering all the latest from URC and Prem, as well as a proper grassroots story, joined by Harlequins and England legend Nick Easter and Chinnor stalwart Alun Walker. The lads get stuck into the Champ’s underdog rise, what life’s really like in the second tier, and the big debate around ring-fencing the Prem and whether promotion and relegation has a place in English ru
#35 Rivalries Boil Over, Rugby Millionaires & Fly Half Journeyman Billy Searle
The lads are back from Hong Kong, with plenty to unpack from the trip before getting into a big weekend of rugby. Off the pitch there’s fresh investment across the Premiership, Russell signs with Matchroom and questions around the future with Moana Pasifika and the NRL Super League talk. In the Prem, Saints edge Chiefs, Bristol put Gloucester away, Saracens hammer Sale and the race for the top fo
#34 Bath’s Bomb Squad Delivers, Leinster Click Late, & Glasgow Stunned
Champions Cup semi-finals are locked and loaded after a weekend of knock out rugby. Bath produce one of the all-time European comebacks, overturning a 21-point deficit in an 84-point thriller against Saints, with the Bomb Squad delivering yet again and Finn Russell pulling the strings. Leinster grind it out for an hour before blowing Sale away, with Hugo Keenan reminding everyone he’s world class,
#33 Knockout Rugby Delivers, SA Teams OUT Already, Quarter Final Previews
Knockout rugby is back and it delivered, with niggle, tries, and drama across the Champions Cup. Northampton edged a 13-try thriller against Castres with Furbank pulling the strings, while Bath saw off Saracens to set up a huge all-English quarter-final. Sale got the job done against a flat Quins side, but injuries are stacking up ahead of Leinster, who look dangerous but not flawless after a mess
#32 Big Match Weekend: Drama at Villa Park, Sarries Fade & Wilson's Chase
After a blockbuster Big Match weekend, the lads dive into all the Premiership action as Leicester blow Gloucester away, Northampton edge Saracens in a statement win, Quins finally snap their losing streak with a gritty performance at Bristol and Bath’s comeback win over Sale. We’re also joined by former England international Mark Wilson, who shares an unbelievable story from completing the brutal
#31 Springbok Verdict on Six Nations | Domestic Rugby Returns, Glasgow Go Top & Bath Dominate
Domestic rugby is back and there’s plenty to get stuck into this week. Glasgow go top of the URC after a big win again Leinster, Leicester move into the Prem top three with a win over Bristol, and Gloucester add to a tough run for Quins. Plus we cover Bath’s huge win against Saracens and Exeter’s push into the top four. We’re also joined by Springbok centurion and World Cup winner Jean de Villiers
#30 Super Saturday Drama: England Click but Fall Short, Ireland's Rebuild & Wales Breathe Fire
Three teams in the hunt on Super Saturday and it all comes down to a Frenchman’s boot in a 48–46 classic in Paris. Bigs was in the stadium for one of the all-time atmospheres as England finally clicked… but still found a way to lose it. Is it progress or same old story? Ireland quietly rebuilt after early pressure, found depth, and may have solved their fly-half headache. And Scotland… was this th
#29 Attacking Rugby | Sam Vesty & Dan Biggar Break Down England & Modern Attacks
Former England and Leicester player, and now one of the most coveted attack coaches in the game, Sam Vesty joins Bigs for a deep dive into the state of modern attacking rugby. The lads give their take on England’s misfiring attack and kicking strategy, why they’re struggling to convert chances in the 22, and whether confidence or system is the bigger issue. Vesty also talks about player connection
#28 Wildest Six Nations Round Ever | Scotland Stun France, Italy Rock England
Absolute chaos in the Six Nations this week and we're here for it. Jim, Goodey and Producer Rob react to one of the wildest rounds the tournament has ever seen: Italy’s historic first-ever win over England in Rome, piling the pressure on Steve Borthwick, Scotland producing a sensational 50-point performance to blow France away at Murrayfield, and Ireland grinding out a tough win over Wales in Dubl
#27 Can Scotland Stop France, England Under Pressure In Rome & Paolo Garbisi
The lads take a look at where the championship stands after three rounds and ask the big questions. Are France operating on a different level, and how do Scotland stop their transition game at Murrayfield? Is England’s discipline and defence about to cost them in Rome, and could Italy finally make history? We get into the numbers around England’s 22 efficiency, missed tackles out wide, scrum battl
#26 How Ireland Exposed England & Scotland Break Welsh Hearts
This week on The Rugby Pod, Ireland sent out a statement with a ruthless 42-21 dismantling of England at Allianz, turning the Six Nations on its head and reminding everyone what they’re capable of. Jim and Goodey break down Ireland’s clinical edge, Caelan Doris’ captain’s performance, and why England’s balance, and identity are suddenly under massive scrutiny. What needs to change for the final tw
#25 Simon Zebo – Faz & Rassie Influence, England v Ireland and Munster DNA
British & Irish Lion and Munster legend Simon Zebo joins The Rugby Pod and Big Jim for a brutally honest look at Irish rugby right now. Zeebs opens up on Ireland’s current trajectory, Andy Farrell’s emotional connection with the squad, and the growing pressure and online abuse facing young players. He reflects on his own Ireland career, the highs and lows, the fierce Munster-Leinster rivalry, play
#24 How Scotland Dismantled England at Murrayfield & Six Nations on Fire
Scotland lit up Murrayfield to snap England’s 12-game winning streak, with Finn Russell pulling the strings and exposing some questions around England’s defence and decision-making under pressure. All the lads were at the game and give us all the behind-the-scenes details in the build-up and post-game. Italy proved Rassie Erasmus might have been right, pushing Ireland to the brink and showing they
#23 England Rugby’s Future Captain
Jim and Goodey are joined by England, Leicester & British & Irish Lion Ollie Chessum this week for a deep dive into his career. From the turning points that shaped his journey, welding on his day off at Nottingham to becoming a Lion, Ollie opens up on setbacks, standards, Lions chat, England ambitions, career-defining moments, Six Nations rivalries, plus a look ahead to what dreams still drive hi
#22 Italy Dreaming, Scotland & Ireland Doubting, and England Dominating
Six Nations round one is done and there’s a lot to unpack. Jim, Goodey and Bigs dive into Italy’s superb win over Scotland, how Gonzalo Quesada has transformed the Azzurri, and whether this result puts real pressure on Gregor Townsend ahead of a huge Calcutta Cup clash. The lads then turn to England v Wales, looking beyond the scoreline at England’s attacking evolution, George Ford’s control, and
Live Rugby Pod Watch-Along & Match Reaction - Six Nations
Join Jim, Goodey, Ryan Wilson, Producer Rob and Slug Hands on the Rugby Pod sofa for some Live Alternate Commentary, bringing you reactions, opinions, nonsense, and proper fan chat as the Six Nations opener between Ireland and France lights up Paris. Questions, hot takes, and post-match reaction, as well as plenty of laughs as the lads share a few beers, as the greatest tournament in rugby kicks
#21 Six Nations Is BACK! Previews, Predictions & Scotland Legend Andy Nicol
It’s a full-noise Six Nations Special as Jim and Goodey tee up a massive opening weekend, with Ireland v France on Thursday night in Paris, England v Wales at Allianz, and Scotland’s trip to Rome. The lads dig into squads amid key absences, new faces and some bans, plus predictions for all three games, and a reminder to join the Pod’s live alternate commentary watch-along for France v Ireland on T
#20 Who Starts at 10 for Ireland? O'Gara and Biggar Go Head-to-Head
Ronan O’Gara and Dan Biggar break down Ireland’s biggest selection call ahead of the Six Nations: who starts at fly-half? From Jack Crowley and Sam Prendergast's battle, to Harry Byrne’s late charge, the lads dig into what Andy Farrell really values at ten, in terms of game management, attacking ambition, and long-term best option to take Ireland forward. It’s a proper rugby-nause chat, shaped by
#19 Monster Appetite - Six Nations Squad Drops, & The Rugby Chef Reveals All
With the Six Nations around the corner, the lads are fired up as squads drop across the board, bringing big calls, big omissions, and some surprise bolters. We dig into every nation’s squad, from France leaving out some absolute superstars, to England’s depth options, Ireland’s late changes and injury worries, Wales’ omissions, a settled Scotland, and Italy’s hopes despite a mounting injury list.
#18 Razor's Shock Sacking, Glasgow Flying High & European Knockouts Are Locked In
Massive news with Razor's shock sacking in New Zealand setting the tone for a wild week as Jim and Goodey break down the fallout, the rumours swirling around player power, and where Razor could land next. From there, it’s onto the final round of Champions Cup pool action, with knockout draws confirmed, major upsets delivered and Scottish rugby flying high. Harlequins stun La Rochelle, Castres shoc
#17 Crisis Meetings, The Willis Derby, ROG Rumours, and Checking for a Pulse in Bordeaux
The lads are on form after a massive round of Champions Cup action, breaking down everything from Saracens win over Toulouse, to Glasgow looking like genuine contenders, Leinster surviving La Rochelle in a bruising classic, and Quins blowing the Stormers away at the Stoop. There’s chat on Henry Pollock being public enemy number one in Bordeaux, Bath’s European march, and why Pool 2 is absolute cha
#16 New Year Reckoning, Festive Box Office Rugby, and 2026 Predictions
The Rugby Pod is back for 2026 and the lads kick off the new year by rounding up a huge festive period of rugby before looking ahead to what promises to be a blockbuster year. Jim, Goodey and Bigs dig into the Premiership at the halfway mark, picking their biggest surprises so far, before a deep dive on England’s wing options as Immanuel Feyi-Waboso steals the show and selection debates rage ahead
#15 European Warriors, Freddie Steward Unfiltered, & 2025 Highlights
It’s a Christmas special as Jim, Goodey and Bigs wrap up a huge weekend of Champions Cup action, look back on a cracking 2025, and welcome England full-back Freddie Steward for a very open chat. There’s reaction to Glasgow’s historic comeback win over Toulouse, Leinster grinding it out away at Leicester, big calls on Saracens, the Stormers and the state of the Champions Cup. Freddie talks England
#14 Football vs Rugby: Stars, Money, Pressure & Injuries - Fozcast Meets Rugby Pod
This week’s bonus episode is a special Rugby Pod × Fozcast crossover as Ben Foster and Tom Ochoa join Jim, Biggs and Goodey for a brilliant conversation that digs into what really separates, and connects, elite football and rugby. The lads compare the financial realities of both sports, how contracts work, the demands of training and match preparation, and the very different ways each game handles
#13 RWC 2027 Pools Reaction and Predictions, & Scottish Surge in Champions Cup
The lads are buzzing after being named in the top 1% of podcasts globally on Spotify Wrapped. It ain't about us though, as The Rugby World Cup 2027 pools are out, the format’s changing, conspiracy theories are flying, and the lads are already calling their final. We get stuck into all the permutations and who’s got the cleanest run to the big dance and who's going home early. Then it’s over to the
#12 Scrum Secrets with Steenkamp, Bath’s Big Statement, and Munster Stormed
In this week’s Rugby Pod, the lads wrap up the Quilter Nations Series before diving head-first into the return of domestic rugby, with big Premiership and URC results to get stuck into. We're also welcoming Springbok legend Gurthrö Steenkamp for an unbelievable deep-dive into scrum culture, Rassie’s revolution, and life in France. We check in on Bath’s statement win at the StoneX to Exeter’s come
#11 The Craziest Test Match Ever, Welsh Ticker & England's Tunnel Argy-Bargy
Four happy men in the studio this week after a blockbuster weekend of Quilter Nations rugby. England made it 11 wins on the bounce despite late fireworks in their clash with Argentina, Jim’s beloved Scotland stuck a half-century on Tonga without conceding a point, and Wales showed real ticker in a brave performance against the All Blacks. But the headline act was in Dublin, where South Africa and
#10 England Stun the ABs, Scottish Collapse, Mack is Back & Cardiff Celebrates!
England stun the All Blacks at Allianz Stadium, Ireland run riot with Mack Hansen’s hat-trick, Wales leave it late against Japan, and Scotland implode spectacularly against Argentina, and the lads have plenty to say about all of it. Jim’s still emotionally scarred from Scotland’s collapse, while Goodey digs into England’s biggest win of the Borthwick era, from Ford’s masterclass to Henry Pollock’s
#7 North vs South Showdown: England & Ireland’s Revenge Missions
It’s one of the best periods of the season and the lads are buzzing as the Autumn Nations Series North v South showdowns kick off, including England v Australia at Twickenham and Ireland gearing up to meet the All Blacks in Chicago. Goodey and Jim dig into Borthwick’s latest England squad tweaks, some epic Premiership clashes including Saints v Sarries and Leicester v Sale, plus unbeaten runs in t
#9 Scotland Heartbreak, Boks School France, England’s 10 & Jimbo’s Comeback
The Pod is back with Goodey and Jim fresh (and a bit bruised) from the 745 charity game - where Jim “put the fear of God” into a few league legends. The lads break down a huge weekend of international rugby: England’s bench-powered surge past Fiji, Scotland’s heartbreak against the All Blacks, and the Springboks’ masterclass in Paris despite going down to 14 men. There’s plenty of chat about Fin S
#8 England’s New Bomb Squad, Josh Adams on Welsh Revival, and Ireland Controversy in Chicago
This week on The Pod, Jim, Goodey, Bigs dive into a massive opening weekend of the Quilter Nations Series — red cards, redemptions, and peroxide-blond hair. England made it eight wins on the bounce with a dominant bench-inspired victory over Australia, with Borthwick building his own “Bomb Squad.” Ireland meanwhile, were left reeling after a controversial red card and second-half collapse against
#6 Munster Masterclass , England Squad Shake-Up & Noah's 5 Star Sarries Show
Munster sent shockwaves through Irish rugby with a statement win over Leinster at Croke Park, dismantling their biggest rivals to go joint top of the URC. Is it a shift in power, or a Lions hangover? Goodey, Big Jim and Biggs get stuck into the fallout from that fiery clash, the form of Jack Crowley, and what it all means for Andy Farrell’s Ireland squad heading into the Autumn Nations Series. T
#5 Derby Days, Flyhalf Battles for England & Ireland + Jack Willis Tears up in France
It was Derby Day in the Prem, and the lads are back to break it all down. Jim and Goodey chat through an epic weekend of rivalries with Saints edging Tigers in a thriller with lots of niggle, Quins toppling Sarries again, and Bath blitzing Gloucester. Marcus Smith is back firing, as is Fin Smith, and a few new faces making an impression. We also take a look at a big win for Ulster against the Bull
#4 Moody’s Battle, Diamond Falls, Autumn Nations Preview, Boks Roll & Dragons Rise
This week on The Rugby Pod, the lads send their thoughts and support following the very emotional news as England legend Lewis Moody reveals his MND diagnosis. Everyone on the Pod wishes him, and his family the very best during this very tough time, and we're here to support in any way we can. On the pitch, the lads react to the news that Steve Diamond sacked by the Newcastle Red Bulls, with Greg
#3 Back with a Bang - English Rugby's Masterplan, Leinster Nilled and Sacha is Boks Office
It’s a monster week of rugby with the Gallagher Prem back and already throwing up drama, the URC kicking off with some big surprises. In the Rugby Championship, South Africa ran riot with 67 points against Argentina as Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu puts in a Dan Carter-esque performance. The Red Roses are world champions after seeing off Canada in front of a sold-out Allianz, and we’ve got special gue
#2 BIG Season Preview – Prem & URC Signings, Zammit Returns to the Pod + Red Roses’ RWC Final
It’s a big un' ahead of the new season kicking off this weekend. Louis Rees-Zammit is back in rugby and straight onto the Pod after a wild 18 months in the US and an eventful debut for Bristol – scoring worldies, scrapping, and spending ten minutes in the bin. We’ve also got the Red Roses charging into another World Cup Final at a sold-out Twickenham this weekend, plus all the big Premiership and
#1 Red Bull Takeover, Saving Grassroots Rugby & Six Nations vs The Rugby Championship
We’re back for Season 10 – a decade of rugby chat and we’re kicking it off with a bang. Jim and Goodey’s apology has been accepted… Red Bull have officially landed in rugby union! Newcastle Falcons are no more – the Red Bulls have arrived – and we’ve got Director of Rugby Steve Diamond on the pod to take us inside one of the biggest moves the Premiership has ever seen.
We’ve also been busy saving
Episode 46 - The Ultimate Lions Review - Beanbags, Brawls and Who Should Coach the Next Lions Tour?
That’s a wrap on Season 9 and what a way to go out! The lads dive into a wet and chaotic third Lions Test where the Aussies finally clicked to deny the whitewash. Goodey and Jim get stuck into the big calls - did Schmidt outsmart Farrell? Was that 40-minute delay a turning point? And who’s next to coach the Lions? There’s chat on Big Willy Skelton, surprise packages, Player of the Tour, and the sh
Episode 45 - Comeback of the Decade, Officiating Controversy & Lions Clean Sweep?
The Lions have done it! Jim and Goodey are back to break down a barnstorming Second Test as the Lions boys clinch the series with a 29-26 win over the Wallabies in Melbourne. From a brutal Aussie first half to a roaring Lions comeback, this one had it all – yellow cards, controversial tries, Skelton-sized collisions, and a nerve-jangling finish.
We’re chatting law-book madness, Spicy Aussie takes
Lions Test 2 Preview & Squad Reaction
Jim and Goodey are BACK for a special midweek episode, previewing the Lions second test on Saturday against the Wallabies in Melbourne and reacting to todays Squad announcement.
The lads also dive into Tuesday's feisty clash with the First Nations & Pasifika XV - from Kinghorn’s costly interception to Darcy Graham’s heartbreaking injury. Jim relives Owen Farrell going full bodyguard mode for Darc
Episode 44 - First Blood to Lions as Wallabies Flop - Russell Leads, Curry Seethes
This week on The Rugby Pod, the lads dive into a stormy weekend of rugby. They break down the Lions 27–19 bashing against a very average Wallabies team in Brisbane, questioning the Aussie preparation, selections, and desire. We also look at some big performances from Tadhg Beirne and Tom Curry and whether Farrell might look to make some changes as they expect a big backlash in Melbourne. The lads
Lions Test Team SPECIAL & Match Preview with Jim and Jackman
It's on! The teams are announced and we are pumped. In this special midweek episode of The Rugby Pod, Jim is joined by pundit of the year Bernard Jackman to react to Andy Farrell’s first British & Irish Lions Test squad, from big selection calls in the back row to bold calls on the bench, the lads dissect the team. They break down the leadership calls, the impact of key injuries, and whether Farre
Episode 43 - Lions Test Week, Wales Snap the Streak & England Whitewash the Pumas
Join the lads as they discuss the final Lions warm up match against an underwhelming AU NZ invitational side and prep for the big one - the first Test in Brisbane. After 644 LONG days, Wales finally got a win against Eddie Jones' Japan and England's young guns do an impressive double down in Argentina.
We also look at Rassies latest bit of... innovation, a double Ravo's arm for Ireland and what
Lions Test XV Taking Shape - Post Match Reaction with Goodey & Bigs
We check in with Bigs from Canberra after another Lions Tour win against a tough Brumbies side. Goodey and Bigs give their take on the overall performance, some highlights and areas of concern, who stood out, an injury update, and how the match has potentially shaped the starting XV for the first test. Bigs also gives us the latest from his blossoming relationship on comms with Rog, and some behi
Episode 42 - Farrell's Call-Up: Lions Masterstroke or Mistake? + England Young Guns Shine in Argentina
A hell of a week of ruggers, with double Lions games, international games, and one headline-stealing call-up. The lads dive into Owen Farrell’s controversial selection, nepotism or necessity? The Lions’ campaign stumbles slightly after an impressive win over the Reds and a tougher outing against the Waratahs. We assess who’s rising - Maro, Jac Morgan, Huw Jones, and who’s wobbling - Duhan, Beirne
George North: From Teen Prodigy to Lions Legend
In this week’s Lions interview, Dan Biggar sits down with Welsh rugby legend George North to look back on an iconic career that started with a bang, scoring twice on debut against the Springboks and at just 18. The lads relive his explosive arrival on the international stage, through to some iconic Lions moments, including that carry with Folau on his back and pointing at Will Genia while scoring
Episode 41 - Farrell’s Game Plan Takes Shape & Lions Demolition in Perth
The Lions are officially rolling in Australia, and this week we’re breaking down the 54-7 demolition of the Western Force. Composed, clinical finishing, and Andy Farrell’s emerging game plan are all on show now. The lads chat about the Lions identity. We also take a look at the Lions Stock Market, who’s on the up, who’s wobbling, and who’s got everything to prove. Plus, Scotland head coach – and L
Conor Murray: Lions Legend, Ireland & Munster Great
With the Lions Tour now in full swing, Dan Biggar sits down with Irish legend Conor Murray to reflect on a remarkable career spanning 125 Ireland caps, 8 Lions Test appearances, and over 200 games for Munster. From his iconic Lions moments, to rooming with Mike Phillips, to Ireland’s golden era, and Munster triumphs, Conor opens up on it all, including insights on playing with some of the very bes
Episode 40 - Lions Land in Dublin: Argentina Spoil the Party, Selection Questions, & Faz Fallout
Dublin was a sea of red and the lads are back dissecting the start to the 2025 Lions Tour as Argentina shock the tourists in Dublin, the Lions’ first tour-opening loss since 1971. Jim, Goodey and special guest Bernard Jackman break down where it went wrong despite dominant stats, from lineout woes and tippy-tappy rugby to Farrell’s punchy post-match comments. There’s chat on subs, back-row balance
Rugby Pod End of Season Awards - Biggest Alpha, Best Hemisphere & Player of the Year -
Strap in for a very special extra episode as we dish out the silverware in our 24/25 Rugby Pod Awards Show. Jim, Goodey and Producer Rob enter into a mass debate as we hand out honours for:
Breakthrough Player of the Year
Coach of the Year
Alpha of the Year (testosterone levels were checked)
Top Lad (the good bloke award, basically)
North vs South: who ruled world rugby this year? 🌍
and
Episode 39 - Finals Glory: 29 Years Later for Emotional Bath, Leinster Crush Bulls & Lions Summer Camp
It was Finals weekend with Bath ending a 29-year wait to lift the Premiership title and complete the treble, while Leinster blow the Bulls away to finally get their hands on the URC trophy. Jim, Goodey and Biggs break it all down, from electric guitars, Finn v Pollard, to yellow card drama and Leinster getting the monkey off their back we're chatting through it all. With Lions camp kicking off, t
Episode 38 - Semi-Final Showstoppers Deliver but can a Global Franchise League?
This week on the Pod, Jim and Goodey unpack a blockbuster weekend of semi-final action across the Prem and URC. Leicester edge Sale in a tense encounter, sealed by a wonder try, while Bath blow past Bristol with a second-half blitz led by the Bath Bomb Squad. Leinster break their knockout curse to book a URC final spot against the Bulls and their monster front row. Plus, we break down a proposed n
Episode 37 - Heroes & Villains - Penalty Shootouts and Semi-Final Line-Ups
This week on The Rugby Pod, we're diving into a chaotic weekend of URC quarter-finals as the Sharks knock Munster out via a controversial shootout in Durban, and Glasgow smash through the Stormers to set up a semi in Dublin. We debate the gamesmanship antics from Jaden Hendrikse that had players and fans riled, and whether rugby is edging into football territory. We also look ahead to the URC sem
Episode 36 - Cardiff Finale & Fallout - Lucu Masterclass & What Happened After the Final Whistle
It was the European finale in Cardiff and Jim, Goodey and Bigs unpack an epic weekend of Champions Cup and Challenge Cup action. We dive into UBB’s first-ever title and whether Saints were undone by early injuries, French power, or just Lucu & Jalibert magic. There's post-match beef, Alex Coles stepping up, and debate on what this means for some Lions hopefuls. Plus, Bath look ruthless in dismant
Episode 35 - Saints and Sinners - Champions Cup Final, URC Playoffs & Union Drama
It’s crunch time across the board, we're back to break it all down. Goodey and Jim look ahead to a massive Champions Cup Final, dissect the thrilling race for the URC playoffs, and react to a Saracens second-half collapse in the Prem and what it means for the playoffs. We look at what Red Bull’s potential takeover of Newcastle could mean, and reflect on some massive changes in Ireland and Wales wi
Episode 34 - Lions Squad Debrief and Fin Smith Joins the Pod
The dust has settled after Andy Farrell's Lions squad announcement, so Big Jim and Goodey are back to pick it apart - surprises, snubs, captaincy chat and a look at what it says about how the tour will be played. England, Northampton Saint, and now British & Irish Lion Fin Smith joins us fresh from his Lions call-up to chat about a whirlwind year, the Saints' run to the Champions Cup Final, and wh
Episode 33 - Saints Slay Leinster in Epic & Lions Implications
This week’s episode is packed after a seismic weekend in the Champions Cup. Jim’s got some apologies to make as Northampton Saints pulled off the unthinkable in Dublin, knocking out Leinster in their own backyard. We have Bigs on to break down exactly how his former club did it, where Leinster got it wrong, and what it means for the upcoming Lions squad announcement. Plus, we’ve got all the fallou
Episode 32 - Welsh Giant-Killings, Prem Shake-Up, Champions Cup Semis & Matt Sherratt Joins the Pod
The business end of the season is heating up with Leicester peaking at the right time, Sale’s masterclass over Jim’s Sarries, and Gloucester hammering Exeter. The lads cover all this plus a bit of giant-killing down in Wales with Cardiff and Scarlets getting one over their Irish brethren. We’re also joined by Cardiff boss Matt Sherratt to get his thoughts. Plus, new Prem TV deals, academy dramas,
Episode 31 - Rugby’s Big Shake-Up - From Bollywood to French Revolutions & Franchise Models
We’re into the business end of the season, but is rugby itself on the verge of its biggest transformation yet? Jim and Goodey dig into the new Premiership franchise model being floated! We chat fan culture, flares, and whether rugby needs a football-style edge in the stands. We also chat about the runs for both the Prem and URC as tams are chasing the final knock out spots. Plus, we’re joined by I
Episode 30 - Biggar's Last Dance and Champions Cup Carnage
It’s a global edition of The Rugby Pod as Jim dials in from Texas, Goodey from the UAE, and Biggar from France, fresh off announcing his retirement. We reflect on Bigs’ epic career while diving into the Champions Cup quarter-finals: Leinster and Northampton steamrolled their way to the semis, Bordeaux dazzled in attack to beat Munster, and Toulouse edged Toulon in a French classic. We celebrate st
Episode 29 - Champions Cup Skyfall & Scorefest, Plus The Warriors Return!
This week on The Rugby Pod, Goodey returns to the studio fresh off Champions Cup knockouts, while Big Jim dials in from Austin, Texas. The lads dive into Munster’s gritty win in La Rochelle, Saints turning the tables on Clermont with a Tommy Freeman masterclass, and Warriors lighting up Glasgow with some flair. We also celebrate the dramatic revival of Worcester Warriors, chatting to new CEO Steph
Episode 28 - Farrell’s Lions Coaching Ticket & Bolters, Leinster's Young Guns, Plus Rob's Rumours!
This week on The Rugby Pod, Jim’s a new man after Hong Kong – writing poems, 5 am gym sessions, and solving riddles. Goodey gives his take on Andy Farrell’s newly-named Lions coaching ticket, and we dissect what it means for squad selection. Rob’s sniffing out the latest on some massive player moves – Finn Russell to where?! Plus, we dig into all the Prem and URC action, Sweeney staying, Henry Pol
Episode 27 - Showdown Showstopper & Chicago Builds a Rugby Empire
Jim and Goodey unpack a massive weekend of rugby, starting with Quins pulling off their first away win over Saracens in 13 years at The Showdown in front of 54,000 fans — and with a few famous faces in the crowd too. Jim spills the beans on the London craic and post-match scenes, while the lads debate what went right for Quins and wrong for Sarries. There's more drama in the Prem as Leicester smas
