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The Good, The Bad & The Rugby (Folding Pocket)

Explore every episode of The Good, The Bad & The Rugby

Dive into the complete episode list for The Good, The Bad & The Rugby. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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Pub. DateTitleDuration
29 Nov 2024GB7s Kicks Off!00:53:35

The World Sevens Series kicks off in Dubai this weekend - where GB7s men & women will take on the best teams in the world & start their epic international journey!

Before they headed off, Alex sat down with a couple of the big bosses & players from GB7s to reflect on the summer in Paris, the growth of the sport & size up the season ahead!

Joe Lydon, Director of Performance for GB7s, women’s player, Lauren Torley, who’s rumoured to have the best dance moves in Team GB join Alex first. Then World Cup winner & newly appointed Head Coach of three women’s side, Giselle Mather & men’s captain Kaleem Baretto plot their maps for the of a World Series ahead.

22 Jan 2025Bill Sweeney Breaks His Silence01:32:18

In this gripping episode of The Good, The Bad, and The Rugby, Alex, Hask, and Tins sit down with Bill Sweeney, the embattled CEO of the RFU, as he faces mounting scrutiny from every corner of England.

With an SGM looming, record financial losses, grassroots discontent, and criticism from players, fans, and referees alike, Sweeney breaks his silence. From the future of the Championship to the controversial bonus payments and the state of English rugby at all levels.

This is a critical conversation about leadership, and whether Sweeney and the RFU are fit for purpose in 2025 & beyond.


⌚️WOB Group & GB&R Competition Entry Form


Season 5 is Sponsored by Continental Tyres

25 Nov 2024Quick Tap - England’s Autumn Report Card00:30:17

Join Alex Goode and Charlie Morgan as they break it all down from Twickenham! England’s Autumn series wrapped up with just one win in four matches—so how do our guys rate their performance out of 10?

Should England stick with their aggressive “Hammer” Defence? Who stood out as England’s top performers this autumn? Can England regroup and rise in time for the Six Nations? Get ready for an honest review.


The Quick Tap is sponsored by Continental Tyres.


11 Dec 2024Cohen, Tindall, Vickery on Unbreakable: England 200301:03:23

Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of mental health and violence that some listeners may find distressing.

Join The Good, The Bad & The Rugby for a poignant and unforgettable episode featuring Ben Cohen and Phil Vickery as they sit down with Tins and Payno to share their deeply personal stories of triumph, struggle, and resilience.

Coinciding with the release of the highly anticipated documentary Unbreakable: England 2003 on TNT and Discovery+, the team explores the untold aftermath of England’s historic 2003 Rugby World Cup victory. Cohen reflects on a personal tragedy that profoundly shaped his career, while Vickery shares raw and candid revelations about life after rugby. Together, they discuss their 20-year reunion and the impact getting back together will have.

Season 5 is sponsored by Continental Tyres

23 Dec 2024When Jonny May’s Secret Santa Was a Live Chicken!00:50:39

Join us at the Allianz (May) Stadium for a special recording on the day of Jonny May’s testimonial. Santa has visited the lads and Jonny recalls the time at Gloucester he was gifted a chicken in a Secret Santa.

The team gets into the festive spirit by opening 12 advent calendar doors, each of which contains a nugget of positivity, spreading cheer as we step into Christmas & 2025.

Season 5 is sponsored by Continental Tyres.


15 Jan 2025Luke Pearce on Ref Bashing, Diving, and Interfering TMO’s01:10:29

In this episode of The Good, The Bad & The Rugby, the team is joined by top referee Luke Pearce for an in-depth exploration of the challenges facing referees. Tackling topics like Mack Hansen's ban, the impact of TMOs on the game, and whether rugby as an emerging problem with simulation and diving.

Alex and Hask wrap things up with a lively discussion about the Investec Champions Cup, debating the greatest back row unit and previewing the upcoming Round 4 fixtures.

Season 5 is proudly sponsored by Continental Tyres.

29 Jan 2025The Six Nations: Jewel in the Crown00:57:12

In this episode of GBR, the team dives into the highly anticipated Six Nations tournament. Is it the greatest rugby competition in the world?


Former Ireland winger Shane Horgan joins the discussion, reminiscing about the tournament’s magic while the guys discuss whether moving it behind a paywall could be a costly mistake.


On the field, the big questions loom: Can anyone stop France? How will Ireland’s aging squad get on? And just how much pressure is Steve Borthwick under?


Plus, don’t miss Mystic Mike’s predictions—brought to you in partnership with heycar!


Season 5 is Sponsored by Continental Tyres.

—>WOB Group & GB&R Competition Entry Form

27 Nov 2024Ireland & Scotland to Dominate the Lions Squad?01:04:13

This week on The Good, The Bad & The Rugby, Payno is joined by Ireland legend Shane Horgan and former Scotland captain Rory Lawson for a jam-packed episode. They dive into the aftermath of Scotland’s massive win over Australia, look at South Africa’s undeniable dominance, and assess Joe Schmidt’s rebuild of the Wallabies.

With the Six Nations looming, the gang predicts the carnage to come, speculates on Lions Tour selections, and explores how Ireland will fare without Andy Farrell at the helm. Plus, they spotlight the meteoric rise of players like Sam Prendergast and discuss the ever-growing Blair Kinghorn fan club.

There's also throwback to the 1980's as we put together a modern day Scotland-Ireland Combined XV, will Irish & Scottish stars dominate the Lions Squad?

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Season 5 is Sponsored by Continental Tyres.

01 Dec 2024Quick Tap: Ireland v Australia & Lions XV Debate00:41:22

Who would make your Lions XV? As the autumn draws to a close, Alex Goode and Charlie Morgan are joined by former Ireland hooker and pundit extraordinaire Bernard Jackman. The lads dive into Ireland’s nail-biting clash with Australia before devising and debating their very own Lions XV. 🔟 How much does Ireland’s game hinge upon their 10? 🇦🇺 Has Joe Schmidt made the difference for Australia? 🦁 Schoeman or Porter, Mitchell or Gibson-Park, Russell or Smith? The Quick Tap is sponsored by Continental Tyres.

08 Jan 2025Cry God for England, Saints, and George!01:17:30

George Furbank reunites with his fellow "Negatron" - Hask, to reminisce about their brief encounter together at Northampton.

Alongside Payno, they relive the weekend's thrilling Saints victory over Bath and explore the emerging young talents shaping the future of the team. Can Northampton defend their title this season?

They also dive into England's current form ahead of the Six Nations, discussing the potential for Fin Smith and Marcus Smith to coexist in the starting lineup.

Plus, get ready for a preview of the Investec Champions Cup, where they break down legendary player partnerships and highlight the most exciting matchups this weekend.

Season 5 is Sponsored by Continental Tyres.

18 Dec 2024Rugby's Top 10 Stars Right Now01:06:44

In this exciting episode, we dive into the world of the brightest names in rugby—those whose talent, charisma, and marketability make them global icons. This isn’t about the best players in the game; it’s about the ones who own the spotlight. From thrilling performances on the field to trendsetting moves off it, these athletes command attention, dominate social media, and make brands and fans alike flock to their orbit.

Returning to the studio is Steve Martin, a sports marketing guru who has worked with legends like Tiger Woods, Lionel Messi, David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Rory McIlroy. Steve shares insights from his impressive career and discusses his latest venture, MSQ Sport + Entertainment, where he helps connect brands, athletes, and audiences through groundbreaking strategies and experiences.


Season 5 is Sponsored by Continental Tyres.

04 Dec 2024Keown, Arsenal, and the Manchester United Rivalry Revisited01:06:03

From that iconic Van Nistelrooy clash to behind-the-scenes contract negotiations with Sir Alex Ferguson, Martin Keown pulls no punches as he opens up about his career highs, lows, and untold stories from his autobiography On The Edge.

This episode is about rivalries, physicality, and raw competitiveness that any sports fan can appreciate. You don’t need to love football to enjoy this—you just need to love sport at its toughest and most passionate!

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Season 5 is Sponsored by Continental Tyres.


04 Aug 2020S1: Trailer00:01:06
Coming soon, a new show from James Haskell, Mike Tindall and Alex Payne. It's The Good, the Bad and the Rugby. 
12 Aug 2020S1 Ep1: The Eddie Jones One01:40:49
The boys are back in town - different church, same choir - for episode one of The Good, the Bad and the Rugby. To kick it all off Alex, James and Mike are joined by the England head coach Eddie Jones for a wide-ranging discussion about the game, childhood, characters, the secret to great coaching, relaxation and why Joe Marler is his Dennis Rodman. 
19 Aug 2020S1 Ep2: The Billy Vunipola One01:12:04
Alex and James are joined on episode two by the England number 8 Billy Vunipola for a fascinating and wide-ranging conversation about why he felt he let himself down at the 2019 World Cup and his complicated relationship with brother Mako. They also discuss faith, vulnerability, slapping George Kruis and why losing to South Africa in the final was a great thing to happen to him. And he springs a major announcement!
26 Aug 2020S1 Ep3: The Fun Bus One with Jason Leonard01:26:59
Alex and Mike are joined on episode three by England's most capped player Jason Leonard, to talk golf carts, old farts, World Cup wins, baths and blowing up granny. He also discusses what it really means to be a British and Irish Lion and why he's the goat. In more ways than one. 
02 Sep 2020S1 Ep4: The Dylan Hartley Extravaganza01:33:02
Alex and James are joined by the former England and Northampton captain Dylan Hartley for a fascinating discussion on leadership, pain, coffees with Eddie Jones, the pressures of captaincy, and what happens when your face and voice don't fit. And the boys discover why Hask is atop a kill list. 
09 Sep 2020S1 Ep5: The Ma'a Nonu Experience01:25:04
Alex, James and Mike are joined from Wellington by arguably the greatest center of all time in double World Cup winner Ma'a Nonu. Together they discuss Owen Farrell's tackle, creamed rice pudding, the pressure of being an All Black, pineapple chunks, being humble, and what it was like to live next door to James. Oh, and THAT try! 
16 Sep 2020S1 Ep6: The Adventures of Stuart Hogg01:16:42
Alex and Mike welcome the Scotland captain Stuart Hogg to The Good, the Bad and the Rugby to talk pressure, walking away from the game, dinner with JK Rowling, George Best, Finn Russell, and the accident that changed his life forever. And he reveals why he almost end up in The Sport of Kings. 
23 Sep 2020S1 Ep7: Lifting the Lid & We Don't Mean James's Hair-Do01:34:21
Alex, James and Mike put the rugby world to rights as they discuss superstars, Saracens, semi-finals, and locked out spectators. And then ahead of publication of his autobiography, James reveals for the first time what really happened with Martin Johnson and Stuart Lancaster at consecutive World Cups, the nightmare of the New Zealand maid, the infamous Altitude Nightclub incident and how he almost killed Rory Best. "I'll save that for the book" just became a reality. 
29 Sep 2020S1 Ep8: Johnny Sexton's Magical Wonderland01:30:50
Alex and James are joined by one of the very best to have played the game over the past decade, Leinster and Ireland captain Johnny Sexton, to talk Irish rugby, credit ratings, the mental stress of leadership, critical dads, Soldier Field, what exactly James called Johnny and why Nigel Owens was so offended by it. 
07 Oct 2020S1 Ep9: The Inspirational Alex Corbisiero01:39:03
Alex, James and Mike are joined by the former England and Lions loosehead Alex Corbisiero as he comes to terms with the return of cancer,  just over a year after being first diagnosed. In a truly inspirational and remarkably upbeat 90 minutes, the guys discuss the power of dads, fear of death, THAT try, coming to terms with a failing body on and off the field and why you converse with absolutely everyone in the chemo room. Plus there's tributes to Chris Robshaw and Brad Barritt, and to the fortitude of Joe Marler. 
13 Oct 2020S1 Ep10: The Heineken Champions Cup Special: Includes Subarus and Noogies01:03:26
Ahead of the 2020 Heineken Champions Cup Final Alex, James and Mike turn back the clock to discuss what it's like to win the tournament and argue the best games, the most iconic players, the best away trips, and the greatest nights out. Full of fantastic stories, incidents, private jets, Clément Poitrenaud, Subaru Impreza Turbo's, nightclubs in rural Italy, noogies and reminiscences about the great Anthony Foley, this is an edition not to be missed. 
14 Oct 2020S1 Ep11: The 2020 RPA Awards Show01:42:21
Alex and James play host to the 2020 RPA Awards Show, live from their living rooms. It's a smorgasbord of interviews, excitement, laughter and tears as the best of the best from across the men's and women's game are rewarded for their outstanding contributions at the prestigious black tie (or t-shirt or pyjamas) event. Hear from some of the biggest names in World Rugby as they collect their gongs, and chew the fat in the usual TGTG&TR style. 

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21 Oct 2020S1 Ep12: Jack Nowell, Exeter, and a Wardrobe Toilet01:18:27
Alex, James and Mike are joined by Exeter's Jack Nowell to talk through the Chief's dramatic Heineken Champions Cup win against Racing 92, and discover what happened on the night out that followed. Plus, who's got a hyperbaric chamber and why, who bought night vision goggles, and what on earth is Stuart Hogg putting on his legs. All that plus a live Zoom audience and Kyle Sinckler's wardrobe toilet. 
28 Oct 2020S1 Ep13: Baa Baas, Hask Weeps, Have You Been a Fool?01:12:04
Alex is in Bermuda for the World Tens, but hops off his surfboard long enough to join James and Mike to discuss the fallout from the Barbarians cancellation after breaking Covid-19 rules. Hask defends the players and questions the strength of the BaaBaa's bubble. There's also tributes to David Pocock and Alun Wyn Jones, a DJ request, a discussion around 'Baxter' and the England job, and the boys pick a Six Nations winner.  
03 Nov 2020S1 Ep14: The Joy of Six with Ellis Genge01:19:17
Alex and James are joined by the newest member of TGTB&TR team as Ellis Genge signs on full time. They discuss England's Six Nations win, strawberry laces, melted candles and how they'd look to change the game to make it more of a spectacle. Ellis also takes James to task over Thierry Dusautoir, there's broken toilets, new cap sing-a-longs and a party barn! 
11 Nov 2020S1 Ep15: Here's To You, Jason Robinson!01:28:52
Alex and Mike are joined by a true legend of two games - Jason Robinson - for a wide ranging and hugely emotional conversation about dominating two codes, regrets, religion, racism and being left out in the cold. Plus, what really happened the night before the 2003 World Cup Final, and the importance of a good teacher. It's 90 minutes you won't want to miss. 
18 Nov 2020S1 Ep16: Georgia On Our Minds01:14:52
Alex, James and Mike set the world straight, (well, James does), on the Georgians, the new series of The Crown and how it's gone down at Chez Tindall, the Baabaa's potential punishments, and the beautiful Pumas. Plus there's a 'shvili' and 'dze' debate, and a full round-up of the opening games from the Autumn Nations Cup where Tinds shows actual love for Ireland. 
25 Nov 2020S1 Ep17: Oceans Apart with Dan Leo01:10:06
Alex, James and Mike discuss the second round of action in the Autumn Nations Cup, there's some royal news, the wonderful Susie Dent drops in bringing wisdom and decorum, and Dan Leo joins the boys to talk about threats on his life, corruption, exploitation and his new documentary: 'Oceans Apart - Greed, Betrayal and Pacific Island Rugby' on Amazon Prime. 

02 Dec 2020S1 Ep18: The Death and Life of Christophe Dominici01:17:54
Alex, Mike and James are joined by Ben Kayser for a hugely emotional episode to reflect on the death of the legendary French winger Christophe Dominici. They share reminiscences of the Stade Francais star, look inwardly at whether they've done enough for struggling teammates in the past, and discuss what happens when the cheering stops. 
09 Dec 2020S1 Ep19: The Rhino, the Rig and the Really Nice Surprise01:23:39
Alex, James and Ellis look back on the Autumn Nations Cup Final and reflect on the negative image of England's play, the mindset of Owen Farrell, and what really happens in the Beaumont Room. There's golfing disasters, frightening honesty over the Matera reinstatement, and Tind's jumps on and drops a bombshell. 
16 Dec 2020S1 Ep20: The Brain Game01:16:37
Alex and Mike are joined by the former Canada and Clermont lock Jamie Cudmore, and the England World Cup winner Kat Merchant for a very powerful edition of GBR. Together they discuss their ongoing battles with multiple, career-ending concussions in the wake of the news that Steve Thompson has been diagnosed with early onset dementia. From migraines, anxiety and convulsions to an aversion to bright lights and loud noises, how are today's players coping with the increase in head injuries, and what can be done to make the game safer moving forwards? 
23 Dec 2020S1 Ep21: The Special Christmas Special01:38:06
Alex, James and Mike are joined by an extraordinary plethora of guests for a Christmas extravaganza: British and Irish Lions, members of the Royal family, Uncle Bryn, Ryder Cup legends, World Cup Winners, stand-up comedians, try-scoring wunderkinds, home nations captains, referees, pop stars, cross-code giants, a vicar, Henry Slade's breath, an England star in a personalised thong, and a Clapham Falcon in a pear tree. It's the Yuletide Zoom call to beat all Yuletide Zoom calls as the gang celebrate Christmas the only way they know how: chaotically, and with plenty of laughs. 
31 Dec 2020S1 Ep22: The 'Ask Me Anything' Special00:43:52
To tide you over between Christmas and New Year, Alex is joined by Luke Cowan Dickie, Shaunagh Brown, Zander Fagerson, Lewis Ludlam, Alex Corbisiero, Brad Shields and Hask and Tinds to answer some audience questions on a whole range of subjects from beards and roommates, to controversial tackles, favourite Spice Girls, terrible chat, Lions highlights, and the pedestrianisation of Norwich's town centre. Happy New Year from all at GBR! 
05 Jan 2021S1 Ep23: The David Pocock Episode01:41:53
Alex and James are joined by one of the greatest players of a generation - David Pocock - for an amazing and wide-ranging conversation. The trio talk bird books, walking away from the game, escaping the horrors of Zimbabwe, and the obsession that leads to the very top of the game. In an incredible episode, the former Australian captain opens up for the very first time on what drove him on, and what happens when you're prepared to sacrifice everything you've worked for because of what you believe in. From 450 sit ups a day to PTSD, World Cup Final disappointments to THAT tackle in Brisbane, it's one of the very best episodes of GBR, with a very special guest. 

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13 Jan 2021S1 Ep24: The Lesser Spotted Vunipola01:35:38
Alex and James are joined by Mako Vunipola for a rare and intimate insight into the life and times of the England and Lions prop. Together they talk Billy, brotherly differences, growing up in Wales, and life at Saracens with no games to play. And they reflect on boarding school days, family ties and whether Mako really could make a drop goal in the last minute of a World Cup Final. 
20 Jan 2021S1 Ep25: The Legend of Kieran Read01:17:35
Alex and James are joined by a true legend of the game: 127 caps for the All Blacks, including 52 as captain, and one of only 20 men to win two World Cups - the one and only Kieran Read. Together they talk about learning from Richie McCaw, what it takes to lead the Kiwis, the responsibility that comes with that position, and the feeling of winning a RWC in that iconic black shirt. They also discuss the Lions in 2017, Ken Owens, and whether Romaine Poite's decision could have been different at the end of that third test.
27 Jan 2021S1 Ep26: Here Comes The Hotstepper - Cheslin Kolbe01:16:43
Alex and James are joined by arguably the best winger in world rugby: Toulouse and South Africa star Cheslin Kolbe. Together they go deep on his troubled childhood - escaping drugs, gangs and murder in Cape Town - to his father's abilities as a centre, and what went through his head when Pieter-Steph du Toit gave him that pop pass with seven minutes left in the 2019 World Cup Final. It's thoughtful and emotional in a manner in which only GBR can deliver. And if that wasn't enough, Tinds drops by for a canter round the course of the latest news, including a Lions update. 
02 Feb 2021S1 Ep27: What You Talkin' 'bout, (Jack) Willis?01:17:25
In a rather unique episode of GBR, Alex and Ellis are joined by a disappointed Jack Willis to talk about missing out on the Six Nations squad.......only to discover a few hours after recording that Sam Underhill is out and he's in. So we all come back for a re-record with a jubilant Jack Willis: quite literally two shows in one as the trio look ahead to the 6N, talk about what really happens in camp, discuss business opportunities, career threatening injuries, Joe Marler, and the role analytics plays in the modern game. 
10 Feb 2021S1 Ep28: Six Nations & Super Scotland01:18:16
Alex, James and Mike talk about actual rugby as they look back on an eventful first round of the Guinness Six Nations. Together they reflect on Scottish success, French flair and a Welsh win, deconstruct why England got it so wrong, and ask whether the USA might offer more than Italy moving forwards. 
17 Feb 2021S1 Ep29: The Day of the Jackal01:35:55
Alex, James, Mike and Ellis look back on a fascinating weekend of Guinness Six Nations action. Ellis pulls no punches with his reaction to Matt Dawson's opinion on Owen Farrell, the boys get deep into the meat of the breakdown rules following the injury to Jack Willis and the sending off of Zander Fagerson, and we ask whether free-flowing-France are the most beautiful thing in the game. 
24 Feb 2021S1 Ep30: Bonjour Ben, Au Revoir Dan01:24:30
Alex and Mike are joined by a new member of the GB&R team: Mr Ben Kayser. Together they get stuck into the French renaissance (rugby instead of art), look at what makes Antoine Dupont tick, ask whether the French public are falling back in love with the game, and assess how the influx of foreign number ten's into the Top 14 influenced the talent at the position for Les Bleus. All that plus a tribute to Dan Carter, and a look ahead to Round 3 of the Six Nations. 
03 Mar 2021S1 Ep31: The Dan Carter Special01:50:27
In a very special edition of GBR, Alex, James and Mike are joined by one of the greatest to ever play the game: Dan Carter. Together they look back on his astonishing career, deep dive into how the All Blacks turned it around after defeat to England in '03, reflect on World Cups good and bad, and look back to an incredible night against the Lions in 2005. Plus: hanging out with Tom Brady, admiring Jonny Wilkinson and friendships with Hask and Tinds. It's Dan Carter. 
10 Mar 2021S1 Ep32: The Good, the Scaz and the Buttery01:35:40
Alex, James and Ben are joined by the newest addition to the GBR team: World Cup winner and former World Player of the Year Emily Scarratt. Together they discuss Emily's new show, the postponement of the Women's World Cup, and the introduction of a Women's Lions team. And they look ahead to this weekend's Six Nations with Le Crunch at the forefront, and James tells us exactly what Eddie Jones and England have been doing since defeat to Wales. 
17 Mar 2021S1 Ep33: Murphy's Law01:23:52
Alex is joined by a happy Englishman, a sad Frenchman and a relieved Irishman as Mike, Ben and the Premiership's most decorated player, Geordan Murphy look back at a fascinating penultimate round of the Six Nations. They also assess where the competition will be won and lost this weekend, and drill down into what really went wrong at Leicester for the former Tigers Director of Rugby. 
24 Mar 2021S1 Ep34: A Six Nations Melange01:27:52
Alex, James and Mike welcome Ellis back from England duty as they go on a deep dive into what went wrong for Eddie Jones's team during the Six Nations. Ellis reveals the levels of racism and the death threats that he received during the competition, James asks if it's really all worth it, and Mike looks back on a fantastic game in Paris, ahead to a tournament denouement on Friday, and reveals something very, very special that happened on Sunday night. 
30 Mar 2021S1 Ep35: Chapeau Wayne Pivac01:12:17
Alex, James and Mike are joined by Wayne Pivac to talk about Wales's Six Nations victory, dealing with pressure, and THOSE curtains. Together they dig into the heart of the Welsh sporting psyche, go behind the scenes on a remarkable turnaround, and shine the light on a couple of key men. And there's reflections on a life lived in the New Zealand police, roaming the streets looking for bad guys with Steve Hansen, and the transferable skills from detective to international rugby coach. 
06 Apr 2021S1 Ep36: Sir Kevin Sinfield01:19:42
Alex and Mike cross codes with one of the greatest players to ever play rugby league - the legendary Kevin Sinfield - in one of the most powerful episodes yet. Together they talk marathons, Rob Burrow, Doddie Weir and the power of friendship. Plus, signing a contract aged 13, making your debut three years later, and almost giving it all up to come to Union. 
13 Apr 2021S1 Ep37: The Ronan O'Gara Special01:09:57
Alex and Ben are joined by one of the greatest players in European rugby history as Ireland legend Ronan O'Gara drops in from idyllic Ile de Re to talk La Rochelle, nerves, the cult of the modern player, and how affected he was by some of the lows in his career. Plus he discusses who he'd pick at 10 for the Lions and what he'll do if Stade Rochelais win the Heineken Cup. 
20 Apr 2021S1 Ep38: British and Irish Lions Squad Special01:24:36
This week Alex, James and Mike take on a simple task: pick their 36-man squad for the Lions tour that includes a starting 15, a captain and a player of the series. Together they ruminate, cogitate and contemplate a myriad of names, line-ups and variations on a theme to try and select a group of men capable of taking down the Springboks on their home turf. This is the definitive GB&R Lions team for 2021 full of well reasoned debate and one or two surprises. 
28 Apr 2021S1 Ep39: The Rope.......Mr Bobby Boucher01:15:35
Alex, Mike and James welcome arguably the most popular man in rugby to GB&R this week: the physical performance manager for Wales, he’s been on the last three Lions tours - and will be on his fourth this summer - and he’s known simply by a pair of alter egos: Bobby Boucher and The Rope. He is the legendary Paul Stridgeon and together they talk wrestling Graham Rowntree, paragliding, the upcoming Lions tour, healing powers, and why he's beloved by players around the world.  

04 May 2021S1 Ep40: The Greatest (Modern) Lions 1501:10:12
Alex is finally allowed to pick the subject matter for GB&R and so he sets James and Mike the simple task of picking the greatest British and Irish Lions 15 of the professional era. Together the three of them stumble their way through what they believe is the best team - made up of great Lions performers - to win a one-off test match. Who makes it......who are the big omissions.....and who will never speak to Tinds and Hask again after this? 
06 May 2021S1 Ep41: Bryan Habana and the European Player of the Year00:59:33
In a special bonus edition, Alex and Ben are joined by the Springbok legend Bryan Habana to reveal the nominees for European Player of the Year. Together they drill down into the shortlist, look ahead to the Challenge Cup and Champions Cup Finals, and get a South African view on the task faced by the British and Irish Lions this summer. 
11 May 2021S1 Ep42: Laying Down the (Courtney) Lawes01:10:35
Alex, James and Mike are joined by the Northampton and England star Courtney Lawes to chat about his surprise - his words, not ours - call up to the Lions. Together they discuss 2017 in New Zealand, injuries and South Africa 2021, obviously. Less obviously they delve into the world of social justice. 
18 May 2021S1 Ep43: The Leicester Tigers Special01:16:33
It's all aboard the good ship Leicester this week as Alex, Tinds, Ellis and Ben look ahead to their European Challenge Cup Final against Montpellier. Ellis discusses how the team has improved under Steve Borthwick and reveals his unusual route to the club. Tinds reminisces about the legendary Tigers side of the 00s, and why just walking out at Welford Road was fraught with danger. And Ben muses on why things eventually fell apart. Plus, Ellis looks back on his omission from the Lions. And if that wasn't enough, you can find out how to win a pair of tickets to the Heineken Champions Cup Final, and maybe get to watch the match with the GB&R team.
20 May 2021S1 Ep44: Heineken Champions Cup Final Preview - An All French Aflair00:55:06
Ben Kayser and Toulouse great Yannick Nyanga join Alex and Tinds for this bonus episode previewing tomorrow's Heineken Cup Final. They examine the roots of Toulouse's famous brand of rugby and look at where Ronan O'Gara's La Rochelle side might find an edge on the biggest day in the club's history. Might it be in O'Gara himself? This episode is brought to you by Heineken.
25 May 2021S1 Ep45: The England Binjuice XV01:19:23
Alex, Hask and Tinds pick a more-than-respectable England XV for the summer and wonder what life would be like with either Kyle Sinckler or Ellis Genge (or both) as England captain(s). They also put their own spin on the newly-branded England A-side, now known as England Binjuice, or England ‘P’, as will become clear.
01 Jun 2021S1 Ep46: The Extraordinary Year of Sam Simmonds01:25:34
Alex, James and Ellis are joined by the Exeter Chiefs’ Number 8 Sam Simmonds for a rib tickler of an episode. They talk about his call up to the Lions and living his best life in the south-west, while Ellis and Hask reveal the most serious dressing downs they have ever received from coaches.
09 Jun 2021S1 Ep47: The RPA Awards 202101:54:12
Alex and James play host to the 2021 Rugby Professionals Association Awards - presented by Pickstar - rewarding the very best of English rugby from the previous season. We have all the winners and losers from the big night, and every gong, from the Sanlam Young Player of the Year prize, to the recipient of the RPA's Blyth Spirit Award (who just happens to be one of our favourite guests from the annals of GBR). And if that wasn't enough, we also induct two more players into the RPA's Hall of Fame. Get your gladrags on and enjoy one of the game's biggest nights with us. 
15 Jun 2021S1 Ep48: The Tao of Alex Sanderson01:40:55
Pens and notepads at the ready for Alex, Hask and Tinds this week because class in session with the Sale Sharks Director of Rugby, Alex Sanderson. He talks about their upcoming Premiership play-off semi-final against Exeter, how the use of psychology gives his side an advantage, and he reveals what he learned from Eddie Jones, Mark McCall and Brendan Venter. Meanwhile Hask tells of a messy trip with his dog to an exclusive getaway and did Tinds put in a word with his grandmother-in-law for Emily Scarratt's birthday honours gong. 
22 Jun 2021S1 Ep49: Joe Marler Redux01:18:06
The one and only Joe Marler is back with bang as he joins Alex, Hask and Mike to reflect on an amazing few days on and off the pitch. The Harlequins and England prop became a father for the fourth time last week before flying into Bristol to star in his side's epic Premiership semi-final win. This is not an episode to miss, as Marler reveals, in his own unique way, how Quins turned things around at Ashton Gate from 28-0 down.
29 Jun 2021S1 Ep50: The Sam Warburton Perspective01:51:48
Alex, Hask and Tinds are back together in studio for the first time in ages as The Good, The Bad and The Rugby's Lions coverage steps up a notch. They're joined by the former Lions and Wales captain Sam Warburton who reveals a side to his character that many might not have seen during his playing days. He reveals what drove him on as a player and talks openly about the agony and ecstasy of life at the elite end of professional sport. He also sheds light on his developing (and promising) career in front of the camera, while providing unrivalled insight into what the Lions will face in South Africa. Plus, after one of the most memorable matches in Premiership history, the boys break down Quins' unforgettable win in THAT final against Exeter.
06 Jul 2021S1 Ep51: The Prince of Centres - Jeremy Guscott01:03:21
Alex and Mike are joined by Bath legend, Jeremy Guscott, to talk all things Lions; the '97 series clinching drop goal, South Africa's prospects in this year's tests and the intel he happily gave to the Lions that he wouldn't give to England.
13 Jul 2021S1 Ep52: Nights Out and Lights Out with BOD01:14:23
The great Brian O’Driscoll is on the show this week, joining Alex, Hask and Tinds to give his take on the Lions in South Africa. He also reflects on the key moments that shaped his reputation as a world class operator on and off the pitch - from hat-tricks in Paris to hangovers in Queenstown. We also find out what it’s like to share a room with Mike Phillips, a boxing ring with Austin Healey and a fairway with Tiger Woods.
20 Jul 2021S1 Ep53: The Geese and the Glory Years with Simon Shaw01:13:23
No Alex this week which means Hask and Tinds are steering the good ship GBR. They’re ably assisted by Simon Shaw to look back on his glittering career with club, country and The Lions. He reflects on the magnitude of the '97, '05 and '09 tours, the glory years at Wasps alongside a young and hungry Hask and playing alongside the world’s greatest players at Toulon.
27 Jul 2021S1 Ep54: The First Test with Bob Skinstad01:22:40
Alex and Hask are joined in the studio by South African legend, World Cup winner and comeback king, Bob Skinstad. They dissect the game and get into the minds of the players and the coaches; but not before Skinstad treats the boys to some biltong and relives the highs and the lows of life as the first ever professional rugby player in South Africa.
03 Aug 2021S1 Ep55: The Decider: Flannery Says Relax01:24:05
Ellis Genge is back in the studio with Alex and Hask this week to look ahead to the final Test. The boys are joined by Premiership winning Harlequins line-out coach, Jerry Flannery, who has a unique insight into the Springboks camp and the mindset of the coaches; having worked alongside Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber at Munster. England camp is also on the menu, as Ellis reflects on his summer as captain and the joy of Marcus Smith’s call up. 
10 Aug 2021S1 Ep56: The Review00:47:25
Alex and Mike are in the studio for an end of season review this week. The final Lions Test, the future of the infamous tour and the legend of Morné Steyn are all on the menu. The boys also reflect on the greatest moments on the pitch this season, the things they really want to see next season, and their favourite podcast episodes and guests so far.
05 Oct 2021S2 Ep1: The Return with Captain Genge01:00:34
The boys are back for a brand new season! Alex, Mike and James are joined by a very chilly Ellis Genge who tells them all about his appointment as Leicester Tigers captain and their promising start to the season. The trio also make predictions for the Premiership title race, talk all things Rugby Championship and look ahead to a new year of GB&R. partypoker Promotion T&Cs: 18+. Eliminate star bounty to win PS5 prize. T&Cs apply. begambleaware.org. Please play responsibly.
08 Oct 2021S2: The Hask Bounty00:22:40
In this special bonus episode, Hask, Tinds and Alex have swapped the comfort of the studio for the wild west of the Moonshine Saloon in central London. Ahead of the The Good, The Bad & The Rugby Poker Night, Tinds puts his high class poker skills on the line, while Hask relives some classic away day card games at the back of the bus. Join the boys on Monday 11th October for the online tournament… and don’t miss the opportunity to win a PS5 by knocking Hask out (of the tournament, not by actually knocking him out). Register for the tournament here: https://bit.ly/3AjSB3E partypoker Promotion T&Cs: 18+. Eliminate star bounty to win PS5 prize. T&Cs apply. begambleaware.org. Please play responsibly.
12 Oct 2021S2 Ep2: Pressing Pause with Will Greenwood01:13:50
Tinds and Alex are a man down this week, as Hask has an early season break to rest his back. The pair are joined by Tinds’ '03 World Cup centre partner, Will Greenwood. Obviously, no conversation between the duo is complete without reliving the glory days on and off the pitch, but Will also opens up about the tough stuff; from struggling to find peace in retirement to the pain of losing a child.
19 Oct 2021S2 Ep3: Staying Humble with Alex Dombrandt01:12:58
James and Alex are celebrating Tinds’ birthday without him this week, as they get down to business with Quins Number 8, Alex Dombrandt. They relive the fairy-tale that was Harlequins’ premiership winning season last year, discuss the highs and lows of university rugby and look ahead to his hopes for the Autumn Nations Cup and beyond, with England.
26 Oct 2021S2 Ep4: In The Ring With Sonny Bill Williams01:33:30
The one and only Sonny Bill Williams drops in for a chat with Alex and Hask this week. The offload king, whose recent retirement has led him back to the boxing ring, reflects on his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to household name. We relive some of the unforgettable moments from an unforgettable career - but we also delve deeper. SBW explains why he went off the rails early on in his career, how finding Islam changed his life, and talks about his greatest achievements off the pitch.
01 Nov 2021S2: Live from Westbury RFC with Robbo & Scaz00:42:24
Alex, Hask and Tinds travel to Westbury RFC in Wiltshire to host a live show with Jason Robinson and Emily Scarratt. In this bonus episode, the boys are on the road to celebrate the return of grassroots rugby, on Vodafone’s Lions Legacy Tour. They talk about their grass roots memories, the volunteers that shaped their experience, career highs with the Lions, and the prospect of a women’s Lions tour; amid the carnage of a hundred strong Westbury audience.
03 Nov 2021S2 Ep5: Beast Mode01:23:20
Alex and Hask are joined in the studio at long last by their brother in arms, Ben Kayser, to talk to one of the greatest front rows to grace the scrum. Tendai Mtawarira, more commonly known as Beast, talks the boys through his journey to the top; moving to South Africa from Zimbabwe with next to nothing, almost having the Bok jersey ripped away from him forever, all before becoming one of South Africa’s greats. They touch on World Cup glory, the genius of Rassie Erasmus and some serious squat and bench press stats.
09 Nov 2021S2: Autumn Internationals Team of the Week #100:25:33
In the first of our Autumn International special shows with Amazon Prime, Alex and Mike select a team of the week from the latest round of fixtures. As you can imagine, there wasn't a lot of agreement between the pair!
10 Nov 2021S2 Ep6: Live from The Prince with Jack Nowell01:09:58
Tinds, Alex and Ben have left the comfort of the studio in favour of The Prince, in Fulham. They’re joined by one of their favourite podcast guests, Jack Nowell, who gives them the lowdown on his Cornish pub, going on tour with Exeter and his work with Red Bull. The boys also look back at the weekend that was on the pitch and look ahead to what could be; with very little help from Jack who hasn’t watched a single Autumn International.
16 Nov 2021S2: Autumn Internationals Team of the Week #200:25:05
Alex and Mike select a XV from this weekend’s Autumn Nations Series, in the second of our special shows with Amazon Prime.
17 Nov 2021S2 Ep7: Live Show with Habana and Hartley01:16:28
Bryan Habana and Dylan Hartley join Alex and Tinds at The Prince in Fulham to look ahead to England and South Africa’s first clash since the World Cup Final two years ago. We all know how that ended - but have England kicked on since then? They’re just as unpopular, apparently, so we find out why everyone hates England, and remind ourselves of one of the greatest head-to-heads of all time: Habana vs a cheetah. partypoker tournament T&C's: 18+. Full T&Cs apply. begambleaware.org. Take time to think. Play responsibly.
24 Nov 2021S2 Ep8: The Twickenham Special - Behind The Scenes At HQ01:07:28
Alex, Tinds and Hask head to Twickenham ahead of England vs South Africa for a behind the scenes trot around HQ. They chat about all things game day; the prep, the characters, the emotion, the speeches, and of course, the fans. Tinds and Hask have never been so buzzed for an episode, so much so they threatened to come out of retirement... They also look back at the final weekend of Autumn Nations action, and the quality we’re witnessing in Northern Hemisphere teams this season.
23 Nov 2021S2: Autumn Internationals Team of the Week #300:30:04
Alex, Mike and James are back with their team of the week in association with Amazon Prime Video after an enthralling final weekend of Autumn Nations action. Who makes the cut, who doesn’t……and why has everyone got bad hair?
01 Dec 2021S2 Ep9: The Tigers Who Came To Tea01:00:27
Ellis Genge brings his mate Freddie Steward to meet Alex and Tinds this week. They celebrate Freddie’s sensational player of the match performances against both Australia and South Africa, and hear how his feet are firmly grounded living in student digs in Loughborough, listening to 80s disco. They also get into Leicester Tigers’ phenomenal start to the season, the culture of the club and Ellis’ leadership.
06 Dec 2021S2: Live from Dungannon Rugby Club01:10:33
Alex, Hask and Tinds travel to Dungannon RFC in Northern Ireland to host a live show with Ireland legends, Gill Bourke and Tyrone Howe. In this bonus episode, the boys are on the road to celebrate the return of grassroots rugby, on Vodafone’s Lions Legacy Tour. Gill relives some of her best moments in an Ireland and Baabaas jersey, and the team take a look at the state of the Irish Women's game. Tyrone also reflects on his unique rollercoaster of a professional career which culminated in a Lions cap, while James recalls one of the most ridiculous and quite frankly unbelievable stories from his trip to New Zealand in 2017.
07 Dec 2021S2 Ep10: Horgan In The House01:17:44
Leinster and Ireland legend Shane Horgan joins Alex and Tinds back in the studio this week to look ahead to the next round of the Heineken Champions Cup.
14 Dec 2021S2 Ep11: Eddie Jones is Back - Pennyhill Park Special00:56:56
Alex and Tinds caught up with Eddie Jones at Pennyhill Park this week. They chatted about leadership, inspired by the England head coach's new book, and also looked at the future of Rugby and the promising young talent in the England set-up.
22 Dec 2021S2 Ep12: Merry Shamblemas01:09:24
No shortage of festive flair in the tinsel-decked studio this week as Alex, Hask and Tinds put on their best Christmas suits and chill out with a gin and tonic (or two) alongside Ben Kayser. This episode is all about listeners' questions - some are random and some are even about rugby - but if you want to know the club the boys would have one more game for, or which brand Hask would change his name to, or how Tinds fared when he met the Queen for the first time, then dive in. It’s Christmas chaos GBR-style: plenty of laughter and love.
29 Dec 2021S2 Ep13: New Year, Same Us00:44:21
Grab a turkey sandwich and your chrimbo jumper, and join the boys as they relive 2021’s best episodes and the most hilarious moments on the pod this year. Featuring a royal baby born on the bathroom floor, the biggest baby born in Zimbabwe, Dombrandt’s whip, Marler’s chopper, Dan Carter’s hair, BOD’s Monday Night Club, Greenwood’s lucky socks… and who could forget the force of the 70s cop duo, Pivac and Hansen…
05 Jan 2022S2 Ep14: Richie McCaw - The GOAT01:39:00
Richie McCaw sets a high bar for the new year as our first guest in 2022. He relives many of the memorable moments from his stellar career, and reveals how the best players develop the mentality and resilience to not only get to the top but also stay there. Back-to-back World Cup wins as captain of the All Blacks, helicopter rescues after the earthquake in 2016 and his newfound passion for adventure racing are just some of the topics that get Hask giddy.
12 Jan 2022S2 Ep15: The State of the Game01:35:14
It’s a very busy studio this week, as Tinds, Ellis and Alex try to nail down what rugby’s trying to be and where it needs to get to. They’re joined by the President of Roc Nation, Michael Yormark, the sharpest dressed person to have ever graced the pod, and the man leading the charge to create superstars within the game. Dragons Rugby owner, David Buttress and Newcastle Falcons owner, Semore Kurdi are also on hand to discuss the salary cap, marquee players, TV deals, financial partners, the impact of covid and ultimately how rugby needs to change to continue to grow; which gets a bit fiery at times. And of course, they get into Ellis’ reasons for heading home to Bristol at the end of the season.
19 Jan 2022S2 Ep16: The State of the Game 2.001:30:56
Hask and Alex dig a little deeper into the state of the game this week, with two guests who know more than most about what goes on inside rugby’s corridors of power. The former CEO of World Rugby, Brett Gosper, and ex-CEO of Quins and Melbourne Storm, Mark Evans, help the boys get to the heart of the many challenges facing rugby union’s administrators, including participation, TV rights, laws, the calendar and, of course, the club versus country debate.
26 Jan 2022S2 Ep17: Rugby’s Worst Crimes01:06:22
What are the worst things you can do on the rugby pitch? Stamping, striking, gouging, headbutting? All these offences - and more - are in the dock as Alex, Hask and Ben play judge and jury and set about ranking the sport’s worst crimes. Most of these transgressions have faded out of the modern game, so Hask and Ben look back on their own time at the coalface, and Alex delves into the archives, to work out what deserves a slap on the wrist, and what is simply the lowest of the low. They also reflect on a couple of heavy episodes dissecting the international game, and get Ben’s perspective on the state of the game en France.
02 Feb 2022S2 Ep18: The Big Six Nations Preview01:31:18
With the Six Nations looming, Alex, Hask and Tinds discuss the things they love about the oldest international rugby tournament in the world. They cover each of the team's strengths and weaknesses, what it's like playing the away games, and why magic can happen at the Principality Stadium.
09 Feb 2022S2 Ep19: Six Nations Round One01:23:30
After a brilliant first round of the Six Nations, the boys are back together to break down each of the three games, and discuss some of the stand out performers, notably Finn Russell and Mack Hansen.
16 Feb 2022S2 Ep20: When In Rome01:00:22
Join the boys on the road this week through the streets of Rome! Recorded over three locations, Alex, Hask and Tinds get in amongst the fans and enjoy the incredible atmosphere at the Stadio Olimpico.
23 Feb 2022S2 Ep21: GB&R Live At The Globe01:15:30
This week Hask and Alex are joined by Ben Kayser and Ryan Jones for a live show at The Globe, Marylebone. Does The Six Nations need a shake up? Has Italy proven itself? Elma Smit, host of our sister show The Good, The Scaz & The Rugby, joins the boys to make the case for South Africa.
02 Mar 2022S2 Ep22: Baby Haskell, Mike Lowwwwwry and a mid tournament round up01:21:13
The boys head back to the studio this week to debrief on the drama of Round 3 of the Six Nations; they unpick uncontested scrumgate, French flair, Youngs’ 115 and Sinckler’s half-century. Be prepared for dad chat, with Baby Haskell on the way, and Alex enjoying his own impression of a certain ‘Bad Boys’ character far too much.
09 Mar 2022S2 Ep23: Six Nations Round Four: Sir Rory Best & England’s Max Malins01:29:02
Ireland make their way to Twickenham this weekend for the penultimate round of the Six Nations. Rugby royalty, Sir Rory Best, joins Hask, Tinds & Alex to look ahead to the final couple of rounds, dissect Ireland’s performances so far & relive the glory years… James also sits down with the man staking his claim to England’s right wing, Max Malins, to hear about prep for the weekend & a certain darts championship in Bristol.
16 Mar 2022S2 Ep24: Six Nations Super Saturday: Bring on Le Crunch01:15:42
Only England stand in the way of France’s first Grand Slam in 12 years, so who better than Ben Kayser to join the boys in the studio to look ahead to the big Paris showdown on Super Saturday? That’s a rhetorical question, but there are so many questions ahead of this one: will France be rattled by their close encounter in Cardiff? Do England really have the game to go head-to-head with Les Bleus at the Stade de France? And if they lose, where does that leave them a year out from the World Cup? Keeping 15 players on the pitch will certainly help England on Saturday night… so, unsurprisingly the red card which defined their clash with Ireland is also up for debate.
18 Mar 2022S2: Live from Bannockburn RFC with Tommy Seymour & Lisa Martin00:58:25
Alex, Hask and Tinds travel to Bannockburn RFC in Scotland to host a live show with Scottish legends, Lisa Martin & Tommy Seymour. In this bonus episode, the boys are on the road to celebrate the return of grassroots rugby, on Vodafone’s Lions Legacy Tour, at a rugby club where veterans and serving members of the armed forces are uniquely celebrated and welcomed.

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