Episode Details
Back to Episodes
Confidence, Crisis & Comebacks – Life Beyond the Game : Ollie Phillips
Description
Ollie Phillips is more than a rugby legend — he’s a master of reinvention.
In this raw and inspiring conversation, the former World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year opens up about the highs of professional sport, the lows of career-ending injury, and the emotional transformation that followed.
We talk:
- Confidence and playing without fear
- Why players must focus on their strengths
- Language, culture & thriving abroad
- The dark side of transition after rugby
- Therapy, self-reflection, and building a new identity
- Creating Optimist Performance — a business rooted in leadership & human development
Whether you're an athlete, leader, or someone facing life after big change — this episode will hit home.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Oli Phillips
04:31 Lessons from the Game
08:53 The Importance of Confidence and Environment
15:03 Embracing New Cultures and Languages
19:59 Transitioning from Rugby to Corporate Life
27:56 Dealing with Personal Challenges and Growth
37:07 The Role of Feedback in Performance
51:09 Creating a Supportive Environment for Growth
01:00:09 Oli's Business Ventures and Philosophy
01:09:53 Final Thoughts and Lessons Learned
🔗 Follow Ollie: https://www.instagram.com/olliephillips11/🌍 Follow Optimist Performance: https://www.optimistperformance.com/about-us/
🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS for more rugby insights from top players & coaches!
📲 Follow us for more rugby content:
📩 Join Coach G’s Free Community - https://thescrumdominatormindset.mykajabi.com/offers/JNLUYzpi
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