Finding Purpose Beyond the All Black Jersey: Ali Williams
Ali Williams didn’t touch a rugby ball until 16—three years later, he was wearing the black jersey. In this raw and revealing episode of Lessons from the Game, Ali joins hosts Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben Pegna to talk about the moments that shaped him: from locker room lessons to boardroom challenges.
📩 Join Coach G’s Free Community - https://thescrumdominatormindset.mykajabi.com/offers/JNLUYzpi
This episode dives deep into:
The mental side of elite performanceWhy he was told he shouldn’t have been an All BlackHandling injuries and life after rugbyBuilding a business after the gameFatherhood, mistakes, and finding your purposeChapters:
00:00 Intro: From Late Start to All Black Legend
04:30 One Lesson from the Game: Vulnerability & Mindset
07:00 Talent, Timing & Building Coaching Relationships
10:50 Mindset Hacks: Training on Christmas & Mental Edges
14:10 Life After Rugby: From Locker Room to Boardroom
20:10 Family, Fatherhood & Redefining Purpose
25:00 The Moment He Knew He Could Be an All Black
28:30 Injuries, Depression & Rebuilding After Setbacks
35:00 Dropped for the Final: Facing the Truth
40:20 Leadership Inside the All Blacks: Richie, Dan & Culture
44:30 Purpose in Rugby and Life: Lessons from Wayne Smith
48:30 Is Rugby Losing Connection? Social Media & Modern Players
52:00 Toulon Days: Buc-ee’s, Habana & Multinational Brotherhood
57:10 Final Reflections: Keep It Simple, Live Fully
🎧 Listen to hear the truth behind the jersey—and the life beyond it.
🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS for more rugby insights from top players & coaches!
📲 Follow us for more rugby content:
Follow us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lessonsfromthegamepodcast
Follow Coach G on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ggsteenkamp
Follow Ben on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/benpegna
The Lessons From The Game Podcast
Lessons From The Game Podcast
Hosted by Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben Pegna, this podcast dives into performance, mindset, and resilience. With insights from athletes, coaches, and leaders, we explore the lessons rugby teaches about success—both on and off the field.
🎙 COMING SOON 20 FEBRUARY
Perfect for rugby enthusiasts, coaches, and anyone seeking inspiration to elevate their game and life.
Where can you listen?
