All You Need to Know About the Lions
From player profiles and behind-the-scenes insights to expert tips and tour updates, All You Need to Know About the Lions is your go-to podcast for everything Lions-related. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, we break down the stories, stats, and standout moments shaping the squad in 2025 and beyond.The podcast comes from The Rugby Mafia - operating quietly from a disused wine cellar in caves in the hills above Blaydon and a deconsecrated church in the back streets of darkest Manchester
OmertĂ #1 - Rugby Positions Unravelled

Welcome to Omertà , where rugby’s unwritten codes meet the discipline of the pitch. In this maiden episode—Rugby Positions Unravelled— The Rugby Mafia break the silence on the unique power, nuance, and secrets behind each role on the field. From the grunt of front-row scrummaging to the split-second gambits of the fly-half, we lift the veil on how individuality and teamwork collide in shaping the game’s heartbeat. This is rugby decoded—position by position, play by play, with respect for tradition and an eye for innovation. All in five minutes
Australian Rugby - Down, Going Under?

As the Wallabies face mounting challenges—key injuries to Noah Lolesio and inconsistency on the field—and Rugby Australia fights financial instability and dwindling fan support, The Rugby Mafia focuses on a tough question: how bad might the Australian rugby crisis get? Unpacking coach Joe Schmidt’s struggle to rally a fractured squad together with the deep-rooted issues —from grassroots decline to Super Rugby collapse (Rebels’ exit, budget woes) — that threaten the future. With the Lions tour underway and a World Cup on the horizon, can Australia rediscover its mojo, or are they heading under? The Rugby Mafia try to bring you 'Al...
Trailblazing Referees - Lions Test Focus

In Trailblazing Referees, The Rugby Mafia spotlight the game-changers behind the whistle who will shape the destiny of the Lions Test series. From innovative interpretations to fearless on-field leadership, these officials bring precision, fairness, and modern dynamics to the grand stage. This episode examines how their unique style, split-second decisions, and embrace of new technology helping to bring a global perspective to the game we love. whilst managing physicality, and pushing rugby's boundaries. Where else will you get a profile the referees leading the charge — we try to bring. you 'All You Need' to know and a fascinating background li...
Maro Itoje - Mandarin control

Calm. Commanding. Cutting-edge. In Mandarin Control, The Rugby Mafia explore how Maro Itoje combines a diplomat’s poise with a warrior’s focus to dominate every breakdown, lineout, and defensive line. From Saracens to sprinting onto the Lions stage, Itoje’s rugby is marked by cerebral clarity, impeccable timing, and unshakeable nerve when it counts. Whether pulling the strings in a chaotic ruck or delivering surprise steals, his silent command shapes every moment. This is the story of a leader who speaks volumes with conviction—on and off the pitch. All in five minutes.
Late Call Ups - Joining the Tour

When opportunity knocks at the eleventh hour, these players answer with determination and destiny on the line. In Late Call Ups, The Rugby Mafia dive quickly into the stories of the unsung heroes drafted into the Lions squad mid-tour—covering the resilience it takes to arrive late, the urgency to integrate, and the pressure to perform without a full build‑up. From surprise selections through injury cover to life-changing test debuts, this is the tale of players who seized their moment when the spotlight found them. A journey defined by adaptability, ambition, and making every minute count. All in five...
Finn Russell - Rugby's Revolution

From Glasgow prodigy to the creative heartbeat of Scotland and a spark in Lions attacks, Finn Russell is redefining playmaking at fly-half. In Rugby’s Revolution, The Rugby Mafia explore his audacious vision, unpredictable flair, and uncanny ability to unlock defences with a single pass. Whether orchestrating set-piece magic, delivering pinpoint kicks from nowhere, or turning defence into attack in an instant, Russell has flipped the script on traditional midfield play. This is the story of a rugby mind that thinks beyond the 15, ever rewriting the rules with ingenuity and bravura. All in five minutes.
Ollie Chessum - Castoff to Contender

Once overlooked and underestimated, Ollie Chessum has transformed from academy castoff into a talismanic force for England and the Lions. In Castoff to Contender, The Rugby Mafia spotlight his rise from being released by Northampton to becoming one of the most impactful forwards in international rugby. With unstoppable carries, defensive grit, and a relentless engine, Chessum embodies the spirit of redemption and raw talent unlocked. This is the story of a player who turned rejection into resilience—and now stands as a contender at the sport’s highest level. All in five minutes.
Marcus Smith - Manila not Vanilla

Bright. Bold. Unapologetically vibrant. In Manila, Not Vanilla The Rugby Mafia explore the creative flair and cultural roots behind Marcus Smith’s explosive game. From West London to the World Cup spotlight, he’s packed his style with colour, backing it with skill — dazzling footwork, vision that shifts defences, and a swagger that turns heads. Join us as we unpack how Marcus injects boldness into every pass, every step, and every moment, refusing to blend in and always standing out. All in five minutes
Mack Hansen - The Maverick

Born in Canberra and blossomed in Connacht, Mack Hansen brings bold flair and fearless ingenuity to every match. In The Maverick, The Rugby Mafia explore his journey from Brumbies prodigy to Irish international and now a British & Irish Lion returning to his hometown. With 12 tries for Ireland, multiple “Player of the Match” awards, and a breakout Lions tour full of crunch tackles, slick offloads, and decisive breaks—even sparking tough selection decisions—Hansen is the unpredictable X-factor in red. This is the story of a wing who lives outside the lines and constantly reshapes what unpredictability looks like in rugby. A...
Tom Curry - Crucial Test

Tenacious, relentless, and always at the heart of the action—Tom Curry brings intensity to every big moment. In Crucial Test, The Rugby Mafia chart his rise from Sale Sharks academy standout to Test match enforcer, exploring how his tackling ferocity, breakdown mastery, and leadership under pressure define pivotal games. With an eye for timing and a heart built for battle, Curry shows us why the toughest tests bring out the best in him—and why he’s a game-changer when the stakes are highest. All in five minutes
Will Stuart - Back to Front

Once a back-rower in his school days, now a cornerstone of England’s front row, Will Stuart’s journey is all about evolution. In Back to Front, The Rugby Mafia explore how the Bath powerhouse transitioned from mobile loose forward to dominant tighthead prop—bringing agility, strength, and scrummaging smarts to the Lions setup. It’s a story of adaptability, perseverance, and the transformation of a player who learned to thrive where the pressure is greatest: in the engine room. All in five minutes.
Owen Farrell - Controversy

Mid-tour drama hit the British & Irish Lions as Owen Farrell was drafted in by his father Andy to replace Elliot Daly—sparking a heated debate over nepotism versus experience. Critics questioned the logic behind selecting a fly-half with mixed form and a long lay-off, while defenders like Luke Cowan-Dickie, Johnny Sexton, and Maro Itoje praised his leadership and composure. The Rugby Mafia go beyond headlines—profiling a man at the centre of fire, fighting to prove his worth, and exploring whether this controversy could define or derail his legacy. Tune in for insight, analysis, and the raw truth behind the...
Johnny Sexton - Player to Coach

From orchestrator-in-chief on the pitch to tactician on the sideline, in Player to Coach The Rugby Mafia trace Johnny Sexton’s evolution from world-class fly-half and Ireland legend to rising coaching talent. Dive into his shift in mindset—from game management to game preparation—as he brings his strategic vision, calm leadership, and sharp rugby intellect into coaching setups. It's the story of mastering the art of playing and then teaching it to elevate the next generation.
Simon Easterby - Harrogate Springs

Rooted in Yorkshire grit with an unwavering Irish heart, Simon Easterby emerges refreshed and energized—like clean water bursting from the Harrogate springs. In Harrogate Springs The Rugby Mafia explore his path from Dublin mud to the pinnacle of international coaching: navigating player development, instilling resilience, and blending traditional values with modern innovation. This is the story of a leader refreshed by roots, flowing steadily toward greatness. All in five minutes
John Fogarty - Knock Out

From relentless grinder in the scrum to master educator in the coaching booth, In an edition that might be called Knocked Out, Not Knocked Down The Rugby Mafia traces John Fogarty’s journey through adversity and reinvention. We highlight how he transformed setbacks—on-field hits and career pivots—into fuel for a coaching philosophy built on resilience, technique, and relentless hard work. This is the story of a man who’s taken every knock and turned it into a lesson—and now passes that strength to the next generation. All in five minutes
Lions 48 - 0 AuNZ Invitational XV

In this episode, The Rugby Mafia dissect the Lions’ dominant 48–0 demolition of the AUNZ Invitational XV at Adelaide Oval—a clinical, cohesive, and crushing performance that showcased eight top-quality tries and a flawless defensive display. Scotland’s Duhan van der Merwe stole the spotlight with a powerful hat-trick, while Ben White, Sione Tuipulotu, Scott Cummings, Rónan Kelleher, and Henry Pollock all added their names to the scoresheet. Ben Earl’s breakdown work and overall impact earned him Player of the Match honours, signaling serious form ahead of the Test series.
But it wasn’t without tension—hooker Luke Cowan-D...
John Dalzeil - Border Crossing

Born on the fringes of rival territories, John Dalzeil has always thrived in the margins—turning regional rivalry into personal fuel. In Border Crossing, The Rugby Mafia trace his transition from local hero to international figure, uncovering how crossing lines—geographical, competitive, and mental—shaped his game and his character. Brash yet thoughtful, boundary-breaking yet grounded, Dalzeil’s story is one of crossing borders and redefining them—on the field and beyond. All in five minutes.
Tomos Williams - The 'Ripple' Effect

Bursting off the bench or slamming into the action from the first whistle, Tomos Williams is the spark that sets waves of momentum rolling for Wales. With a heart-breaking exit, The Ripple Effect, The Rugby Mafia dive into an examination of the scrappy tenacity, tactical sharpness, and searing speed that define his game. From schoolboy standout to international dynamo, Williams embodies how one spark of brilliance at nine can shift an entire match. This is the story of a pocket-sized catalyst whose impact reverberates far beyond his stature. We then assess the impact of his departure on the rest...
Ben White - The Late Show

Cool under cosmopolitan lights, and electric when it counts—Ben White brings late-night flair to the fly-half role. In The Late Show, The Rugby Mafia explore his path from Scotland’s nurseries to anchoring dominant back-five platforms, and how his clutch kicking, sharp vision, and measured calm make him a maestro once the spotlight hits. This is the story of a player who’s turned clutch moments into headline acts—and owns every late-game showdown. All in five minutes.
Finlay Bealham - Braided Success

From humble beginnings at The Brumbies to anchoring the front row for Ireland, Finlay Bealham's journey is a rich tapestry of perseverance, skill, and passion. In Braided Success, The Rugby Mafia explore how he wove together raw power in the scrum, intelligent open-play impact, and unwavering character off the pitch. With trademark ferocity and thoughtful leadership, Bealham embodies the blend of strength and sophistication that defines modern prop play—and proves that true success is built, strand by strand. All in five minutes.
Andrew Goodman - A Kiwi Coach

With deep roots in the heartland of Southern Hemisphere rugby, Andrew Goodman brings Kiwi grit, guile, and innovation to every team he leads. In A Kiwi Coach, The Rugby Mafia explore his journey from New Zealand playing fields to international coaching arenas—unpacking his philosophy of high-tempo attack, adaptive game-planning, and player-first leadership. This is the story of a coach who marries southern steel with tactical finesse—shaping squads ready to dominate on and off the field. All in five minutes.
Garry Ringrose

Graceful in attack, unwavering in defense, and a dreamer turned dominator—Garry Ringrose is the epitome of rugby elegance with steel beneath. In Dreams to Dominance, The Rugby Mafia journey through his rise from prodigious talent at Clongowes to starring centre for Leinster and Ireland. We unpack the blend of creativity, vision, and grit that transformed childhood dreams into elite performances on the global stage. This is the story of a player who dared to dream—and then made that dream dominate. All in five minutes.
James Ryan - The Players' Player

Steadfast lineout caller, uncompromising in defence, and universally respected in the locker room—James Ryan is the embodiment of a captain's captain. In The Players’ Player, The Rugby Mafia trace his rise from Leinster academy to Ireland stalwart, uncovering the leadership, consistency, and integrity that make him the go-to man when intensity peaks. This is the story of a powerhouse second-row earning trust, turning matches, and winning respect—game after game. All in five minutes.
Pierre Schoemann - Smashing the Mould

Aggressive scrummaging, unpredictable ball-carrying, and relentless work at the breakdown—Pierre Schoemann is rewriting the rules for the modern tighthead. In Smashing the Mould, The Rugby Mafia dive into his unconventional path from relative obscurity to a rock-solid anchor in the front row. Explore how his strength, agility, and tenacious mindset are reshaping the way we view the engine of a rugby pack. This is the story of a player who's not just fitting into the mould—he’s breaking it. All in five minutes.
Andrew Porter - Powerhouse

Relentless, explosive, and immovable at the scrum—Andrew Porter is the definition of front-row force. In Powerhouse, The Rugby Mafia chart his journey from UCD student to one of the most feared looseheads in world rugby. With unmatched versatility, endurance, and a warrior mentality, Porter anchors the set piece and inspires the pack. This is the story of raw strength refined into world-class consistency. All in five minutes.
Alex `Mitchell - Calm Before the Scrum

Lightning-quick decision maker and a calming influence under pressure, Alex Mitchell brings poise and precision to every Lions game. In Calm Before the Scrum, The Rugby Mafia explore the scrum-half’s journey from Northampton academy standout to orchestrator of attacking tempo, leadership voice of the pack, and creator in clutch moments. Discover how his vision, composure, and tireless work at the breakdown are redefining the heartbeat of modern rugby. All in five minutes
Lions 36 - 24 Brumbies

In this episode, The Rugby Mafia break down the Lions’ gritty 36–24 win over the Brumbies in Canberra—a fourth straight victory that came with mixed performances. Highlights include Ollie Chessum’s strong start, five flashy tries, and Finn Russell’s 11 points with the boot. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing: sloppy breakdowns and an early knee clanger for Blair Kinghorn (who, thankfully, isn’t seriously hurt) added fresh concerns just ten days ahead of the First Test. Tune in as we unpack the standout plays, emerging leaders like Jamison Gibson‑Park, and the work still needed for the Lions to peak —...
Lions 21 - 10 Waratahs

In this episode, The Rugby Mafia dissect the heavy rain, unforced errors, and gritty resilience that dominated the Lions’ third tour match. Huw Jones stole the show with a brace, Alex Mitchell grabbed a crucial second-half try, but sloppy handling and discipline slip-ups kept the Waratahs in it until the final whistle. Coach Andy Farrell voiced frustration—yet came away relieved the squad escaped without fresh injuries. We’ll explore what this win really means: maintaining unbeaten streak, but also exposing cracks ahead of the Test series, and examine who stood tall under pressure—from the Lions’ set-piece to the Warata...
Josh van der Flier - Late Bloomer

Never the flashiest name in the squad, Josh van der  Flier proves greatness doesn’t always announce itself early. The Rugby Mafia explore his gradual climb—from overlooked academy prospect to tackling machine and Irish stalwart. With cerebral breakdown reads, stamina that never quits, and a winning instinct that’s matured with age, van der  Flier's story is one of patience, persistence, and ultimately peak‑time brilliance. All in five minutes
Scott Cummings - Tank to Ferrari

From hard-hitting enforcer to high-octane flyer—The Rugby Mafia map Scott Cummings’ transformation from solid second-row bruiser into the dynamic powerhouse we see today. Discover how he parlayed raw strength into finesse, leaving defenders in his wake with blistering pace and precision. Through grit, evolution, and sheer confidence, Cummings is racing ahead—and redefining what a forward can be. All in five minutes
Duhan van der Merwe - South to North

Born in South Africa, bred in Scotland — The Rugby Mafia trace Duhan van der Merwe’s epic journey from Cape Town fields to the heart of Murrayfield. This podcast explores how his raw power, searing pace, and indomitable drive have made him one of the most electrifying try-scorers on either side of the equator. A story of crossing continents and crossing opponents—this is Duhan’s path from southern sunshine to northern stardom. All in five minutes
Duhan van der Merwe - South to North

Born in South Africa, bred in Scotland — The Rugby Mafia trace Duhan van der Merwe’s epic journey from Cape Town fields to the heart of Murrayfield. This podcast explores how his raw power, searing pace, and indomitable drive have made him one of the most electrifying try-scorers on either side of the equator. A story of crossing continents and crossing opponents—this is Duhan’s path from southern sunshine to northern stardom. All in five minutes.
Fin Smith - The Chess Master

Strategic, composed, and always thinking two moves ahead—Fin Smith brings a cerebral edge to the fly-half role. The Rugby Mafia explore how his tactical genius, precision kicking, and calm leadership orchestrate victories on and off the field. This is the story of a player who views every match as a grandmaster sees a chessboard: opportunity, anticipation, and brilliance in every play. All in five minutes
Dan Sheehan - Schoolboy to Lions Captain

From Clongowes Wood College to leading the British & Irish Lions—Dan Sheehan's rise is nothing short of remarkable. The Rugby Mafia trace the hooker’s journey: a multi‑sport upbringing in Bucharest, overcoming a serious ACL injury, breaking records for Ireland, and finally earning the honour of captaining the Lions on debut in Australia. Calm under pressure, versatile on the field, and a natural leader—Sheehan's story is one of grit, growth, and glory. All in five minutes
Sione Tuipulotu - Rugby Without Borders

Born in Australia, with Tongan roots and a Scottish jersey on his back, Sione Tuipulotu is the embodiment of the global game. The Rugby Mafia follow his unique journey across continents and cultures, exploring how identity, heritage, and heart have shaped one of the most dynamic centres in world rugby. Powerful, passionate, and proudly international – this is rugby with no limits. All in five minutes
Richard Wigglesworth - Coach Express

From Premiership legend to tactical mastermind, Richard Wigglesworth is fast-tracking his way through the coaching ranks. The Rugby Mafia explore his transition from scrum-half to head coach, his philosophy on fast, intelligent rugby, and the impact he's having on the Lions setup. Sharp, driven, and always one step ahead – this is the story of a rugby mind on the move. All in five minutes.
Lions 52 - 12 Queensland Reds

In this episode, The Rugby Mafia break down the British & Irish Lions’ commanding 52–12 win over the Queensland Reds in Brisbane. From Jac Morgan’s relentless leadership to Maro Itoje’s triumphant return, and a backline firing on all cylinders, this was a statement performance. Tune in as we unpack the key moments, standout players, injury concerns, and what this dominant display means as the Test series draws closer. All in five minutes
Henry Pollock - The Rise of the Young Pup

Fearless, fast, and ferociously talented – Henry Pollock is the new breed of English flanker making waves well before his time. The Rugby Mafia chart his rapid ascent from schoolboy sensation to professional prodigy, showcasing the instincts, attitude, and ambition that set him apart. This is the story of a teenager turning heads and tackling the future head-on. All in five minutes
Joe McCarthy - From Manhattan to the Stars

Born in New York, forged in Dublin – Joe McCarthy’s rise is as bold as his tackles. The Rugby Mafia trace the powerhouse lock’s journey from the streets of Manhattan to the heart of Ireland’s pack. With raw strength, relentless work rate, and a towering presence, McCarthy is fast becoming a star on the international stage. This is the story of a transatlantic talent with sky-high potential. All in five minutes.
Ronan Kelleher - Hook, Line and Brilliance

From Leinster’s engine room to Ireland’s front row, Ronan Kelleher is redefining what it means to wear the No. 2 jersey. Here at The Rugby Mafia we chart his rise through the ranks, his dynamism in open play, and the precision he brings to the set piece. Sharp, skilful, and consistently impactful – this is the story of a hooker with brilliance in his blood.