House of Rugby

For a final festive get together before the Christmas break, Hugh Woozencroft, Rachael Burford and Alex Goode are joined by Wales' two-time Grand Slam winner James Hook. Together, they consider what a future England team under Steve Borthwick might look like, discuss which players are likely to thrive in his system and what would constitute success in 2023. James Hook gives insight into his old coach Warren Gatland, and what Wales need at both country and club level to turn their fortunes around. The panel spill the beans on the biggest liabilities at rugby Christmas parties and argue over the perfect festive film. All that, plus stolen leather jackets, milk-sloshing initiations and niche WhatsApp groups. Drop us a voicenote on the House Of Rugby WhatsApp at 07852281348 to get involved.

Transcribed - Published: 13 December 2022

Hugh Woozencroft, Rachael Burford and Alex Goode are joined by Scotland and Gloucester winger Adam Hastings to unpick the dramatic reappointment of Warren Gatland as Wales Head Coach, replacing Wayne Pivak in the role. Meanwhile, Eddie Jones’ future as England boss hangs in the balance, with rife speculation suggesting his imminent departure - the team discuss how we got here and what might happen next in this fast-moving saga. We preview the European Championships which kick off this coming weekend with South African teams joining for the first time, while Adam is grilled on Scotland’s Six Nations chances, 50 yard drop goals and rugby’s biggest fake tan culprits. Finally, there’s more chat on the sport’s hardest lads, iconic classic jerseys and our listeners Pass It On to another community club.

Transcribed - Published: 6 December 2022

Class is in session as Hugh Woozencroft, Rachael Burford and Alex Goode grade the Autumn Nations Series for key teams. They are joined by South Africa captain and legend John Smit, who assesses an incumbent Springboks side ahead of their World Cup defence in 2023, as well sharing his views on Rassie Erasmus. The team also pay tribute to the late, great Doddie Weir and his legacy on and off the pitch, discuss England’s capitulation at the weekend, Australia’s 21 point comeback against Wales and also nominate the hardest lads across all the international sides. Drop us a voicenote on the House Of Rugby WhatsApp at 07852281348 to get involved.

Transcribed - Published: 30 November 2022

Hugh Woozencroft, Alex Goode and Rachael Burford are joined by Red Rose and Harlequin Shaunagh Brown to pore over the forthcoming Autumn Nations Series clash between South Africa and England. There’s analysis of an epic comeback against the All Blacks and Georgia’s historic triumph over Wales, reaction to the World Rugby Awards in Monaco while Shaunagh talks murals, medals and cricket in the England camp.

Transcribed - Published: 24 November 2022

Hugh Woozencroft, Rachael Burford and Alex Goode are joined by Harlequins and England player Joe Marchant to talk all things Barbarians. The team preview a heavyweight Autumn Nations Series clash between England and the All Blacks and consider what’s next for the Red Roses after last minute heartbreak at Eden Park. Plus, reaction to Rassie Erasmus’ suspension and more Movember tash appreciation. All this and more on this week’s House Of Rugby. Drop us a WhatsApp voicenote or message to feature on the podcast on 07852281348.

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2022

House of Rugby is back with a brand new lineup of Alex Goode, Rachael Burford and Hugh Woozencroft for the first episode of this new series! There’s a surprise for Alex as the team celebrate his phenomenal achievement of becoming the most capped Saracens player of all time. Hugh and Alex discuss the Autumn Nations Series following England’s loss to Argentina at the weekend - their first since 2006. Rachael is in New Zealand ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final, and fills us in down the line about the mood in Auckland, and if the Red Roses have what it takes to beat the Black Ferns on home turf at Eden Park. Plus there’s a celebration of rugby’s most iconic tashes in honour of Movember, and Hugh comes through with a hot take about England going into next year’s World Cup... Don’t forget, you can get in touch with the House Landline - drop us a WhatsApp message or voice note to be featured on next week’s episode, the number is 07852281348.

Transcribed - Published: 8 November 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien are in the pub for a Heineken Champions Cup special and reveal their favourites to lift the trophy. They take an in depth look at the final 5 shortlisted players for the EPCR European Player of the Year and both men reflect on what it was like to win such a prestigious award.

Transcribed - Published: 17 May 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien are joined by Bristol Bears tighthead prop, Kyle Sinckler. They discuss Kyle’s holistic approach to rugby and how a change of mindset has improved his performances on the pitch. He talks about his background and his mentors in the game, and lifts the lid on what really happened when he set the fire alarm off at Pennyhill Park!

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien are joined by Harlequins and England centre Joe Marchant. The boys discuss life at Quins, Joe’s time in the England camp and what really happened when they got stuck in a lift, as well as picking some surprise names for their players of the season so far.

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien are joined by Goodie’s Saracens teammate Ben Earl. Seanie speaks exclusively about his decision to retire from rugby at the end of the season and the boys reflect on his incredible career. They also discuss away days, pranking teammates and share their most embarrassing moments.

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien are in the pub for a 6 Nations debrief. The boys discuss the fantastic French, impressive Ireland and Italy’s bright future. They have a look at where it went wrong for England, Wales and Scotland and name their Team of The Tournament.

Transcribed - Published: 23 March 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien look back at the weekends 6 Nations action. The boys discuss Wales shortcomings, the dramatic England v Ireland battle at Twickenham and discuss if France can handle the pressure of winning their first 6 Nations title since 2010.

Transcribed - Published: 16 March 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien are joined by former England Captain and Grand Slam winner Dylan Hartley. The boys discuss what it is really like playing under Eddie Jones, how Dylan handled the tougher times in his career and try to work out what Rassie Erasmus’s agenda is.

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien are joined by Welsh rugby legend Adam ‘Bomb’ Jones. Looking back at the weekends 6 Nations action - the boys discuss the secret to France’s success, the impact of Maro Itoje and why everyone needs to give Italy a break. Bomb answers fans questions and he and Sean go head to head in a Beat the Bomb.

Transcribed - Published: 2 March 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien are joined by the World Player of the Year and Red Roses star Zoe Aldcroft. They look back at the weekends Six Nations results, discuss Zoe’s incredible rise in the game and look forward to a huge year for the Red Roses and Women’s rugby.

Transcribed - Published: 16 February 2022

Alex Goode and Sean O’Brien are joined by World Rugby’s CEO Alan Gilpin. They discuss the future of rugby, how to grow the game, law changes, player welfare AND the possibility of a behind the scenes documentary-series.

Transcribed - Published: 9 February 2022

Goodie and Seanie are joined by Springbok & Harlequins centre André ‘The Giant’ Esterhuizen. The boys discuss what it’s really like to work with Rassie Erasmus, Andre reflects on that infamous Owen Farrell high tackle and they name who they think is Rugby’s Greatest Player Of All Time.

Transcribed - Published: 2 February 2022

Goodie and Seanie are joined by Saracens playmaker Alex Lozowski. They discuss Loz’s trial alongside Harry Kane at Arsenal, discuss whether drinking culture within rugby will change and Loz reflects on his time playing in France including their unique take on team socials.

Transcribed - Published: 19 January 2022

Seánie and Goodie are joined by Sale Sharks & England scrum-half Raffi Quirke. They discuss scoring against the World Champions, being England’s team barber, what he would cook for a date night and the boys break down what makes Antoine Dupont the best in the world.

Transcribed - Published: 15 December 2021

Seánie and Goodie are joined by Wallaby & London Irish scrum-half Nick Phipps. They talk initiations, topless photo shoots, what Sean’s really like at training and discuss whether South Africa should be added to the 6 Nations.

Transcribed - Published: 8 December 2021

Wales and Lions fly-half Dan Biggar drops in for a chat with Goodie and Seanie. They reflect on the autumn internationals, take us behind the scenes of the Lions tour, discuss what it means to be the President of the Laundry Committee and Dan breaks down his infamous pre-kick shuffle

Transcribed - Published: 30 November 2021

Check out From The Corner - brought to you by JOE and DAZN - presented by David Alorka and Swarzy Macaly. A crossover boxing show that will appeal to fight fans and newbies alike. Each week our two hosts will be joined by a guest from the worlds of sport and entertainment to chat, banter, try their hands at games and challenges, and discuss the upcoming bouts on the DAZN/Matchroom fight cards.

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2021

Seanie and Goodie reflect on the Autumn Nations Series, discuss the tactical use of water-carriers in rugby and tackle the topic of drinking in stadiums. Adam ‘Bomb’ Jones drops in for a chat with Springbok legend Tendai ‘The Beast’ Mtawarira. They talk about facing each other in the 2009 Lions tour, winning the World Cup an eating challenge like no other.

Transcribed - Published: 24 November 2021

Seánie and Goodie are joined by England legend and World Cup winner Will Greenwood as they talk about celebrity boxing bouts, pick their World Rugby player of the year, discuss all things autumn nations and take a look back at moments from Will’s sterling career.

Transcribed - Published: 17 November 2021

Seánie and Goodie talk about the biggest moments from the autumn internationals, what it was like to make their debuts and discuss what needs to be done about dementia in rugby. Ex-England fly-half Toby Flood drops in for a chat.

Transcribed - Published: 10 November 2021

Seánie and Goodie discuss all things autumn internationals, Sean explains why he thinks 4G pitches should be banned in the game and Aussie legend David Pocock drops in for a chat.

Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2021

Seánie and Goodie are joined by Adam Jones in the studio. They talk about Seanie’s love of animals, Goodie’s best fancy dress efforts and Bomb and Seánie go head to head in a brand new game. The boys answer some of your questions and take a look forward to the autumn international series.

Transcribed - Published: 27 October 2021

Seánie and Goodie are joined by Adam Jones to review the series and discuss why it was a missed opportunity for the Lions. Stuart Hogg dials in from Jersey nursing a severe hangover, Schalk Brits comes on to have a good old gloat and Seánie gets some constructive feedback on his autobiography.

Transcribed - Published: 12 August 2021

Seánie and Goodie are joined by former Springbok Bobby Skinstad and Lions legend Matt Dawson to dissect the Lion’s third Test defeat and Springbok series win. The boys also select their Lions and South Africa combined XV.

Transcribed - Published: 9 August 2021

Seanie and Alex go through Warren Gatland’s team selection for the third and final Test and pick out where the game will be won and lost. The boys are also joined by top referee JP Doyle to give his perspective on the criticism the officials have had to deal with during the series and he gives us an insight into how a referee prepares for a big game.

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2021

Springbok World Cup winner Bobby Skinstad joins Seánie and Goodie to reflect on South Africa's 27-9 win over the Lions to level the series. They examine what the difference was between the two sides on Saturday and why the Lions are expected to make wholesale changes ahead of the decider. The boys also pick their fantasy sevens side from both teams.

Transcribed - Published: 2 August 2021

After Warren Gatland named his starting Lions XV for the second Test, Seanie and Goodie pick through the bones of his selection. The boys are joined by Schalk Brits to get the South African perspective and Mako Vunipola joins the pod to chat life on tour.

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2021

Seánie and Goodie are joined by former Scotland captain Geig Laidlaw to review the first Test that saw the Lions out-muscle the Boks to win 22-17. The boys pick out who impressed them most, where it went wrong for South Africa and what we can expect next weekend.

Transcribed - Published: 26 July 2021

Seánie is joined by Shane Horgan to take a forensic look at Warren Gatland’s Lions team to face the Springboks in that first Test on Saturday. And Schalk Brits joins the boys from South Africa to give his view on Jacques Nienaber side.

Transcribed - Published: 23 July 2021

Goodie and Seánie are joined by former Scotland skipper Greig Laidlaw to reflect on a busy week for the Lions, the return of Alun Wyn Jones, and look ahead to the first test against the Springboks. Greig also talks about his memories of the 2017 tour, while they also discuss life in Japan.

Transcribed - Published: 19 July 2021

Goodie and Jack are joined by former Leinster and Ireland winger Shane Horgan to reflect on a difficult week for both the Lions and the Springboks. They chat about how the two teams will be dealing with the disruptions and reflect on the news that Marcus Smith has been called up as cover for Finn Russell. Schalk Brits joins us from his garden to give us the latest from the Springbok camp and Shane takes us back to the 2005 tour to New Zealand.

Transcribed - Published: 12 July 2021

Two times Lions tourist Tom Croft joins Seanie and Goodie to review the Lions first game on South African soil. They pick out who they thought would have impressed Warren Gatland and pick their back row for that first Test. Schalk Brits joins the pod to give us the lowdown of the Springbok’s game against Georgia, and Tom shares his memories from the last time the Lions were in South Africa which included playing a lot of Scrabble.

Transcribed - Published: 5 July 2021

Seánie and Goodie are joined by England flanker Jack Willis to reflect on the big news that Lions captain Alun Wyn Jones will not travel to South Africa after sustaining a shoulder injury during the win against Japan. As well as reviewing the game, they discuss who would have impressed Warren Gatland and what sort of captain Conor Murray will be. They also hear from our “Bok on the ground” Schalk Brits who gives us the latest from the Springbok camp and the boys attempt to speak to Bomb as Quins enjoy a night out after winning the Premiership final against Exeter.

Transcribed - Published: 28 June 2021

Goodie, Seanie and Bomb are reunited in the studio ahead of the Lions first game against Japan at Murrayfield this weekend. Having spent the last 10 days in Jersey, Seanie gives us the inside track from the Lions training camp, Goodie tells us why Owen Farrell’s leadership has impressed Warren Gatland and Bomb admits not even he saw that remarkable comeback that saw Quins reach the Premiership final.

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2021

Fresh from winning the Premier 15’s title with Quins, Shaunagh Brown joins Lee, Goodie and Seánie to tells us how special the day was. She also explains why she quit athletics after competing in the Commonwealth Games to start playing rugby. And 24 years on from that famous 1997 Lions Tour to South Africa, John Bentley joins the pod to share a few stories from back then and why being a Lion is so special.

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2021

Leinster and Ireland centre Robbie Henshaw joins Lee, Goodie and Seánie to talk about his Lions selection. He also lifts the lid on some of Seánie’s old antics in Dublin and why he’s no longer welcome at Johnny Sexton’s house. The guys also discuss whether criticism of the Pro 14 is fair and why Leinster are coming up short in Europe.

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2021

England and Saracens prop Mako Vunipola joins Lee and Goodie to chat about his selection for the Lions, the disappointment of his brother Billy missing out and why he wore a dress in Chicago! Plus World Cup winner Schalk Brits joins the pod to talk about how the Springboks are preparing for the Lions and what he misses about rugby since retiring from the sport. We also learn that rugby is not his favourite sport.

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2021

After receiving their Lions call-ups last week, Hamish Watson and Courtney Lawes join Lee, Seánie and Goodie on the pod. They talk about where they were when the team was announced, what they’re most looking forward to and how they’re relishing facing the Springboks. Hamish also gives us the latest on the mullet and whether it’s going on tour to South Africa.

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2021

After Lions coach Warren Gatland named his 37 players to tour South Africa, Lee, Bomb and Seánie pick through the bones of his selections. They discuss the decision to make Alun Wyn Jones captain and how the team might look come that first Test. We also hear from coach Gregor Townsend and Lions chairman Jason Leonard.

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2021

Two superstars of world rugby join Lee and Goodie from Japan this week. Former Wallaby scrum half Will Genia tells us why rugby in Australia is struggling, who his half-back pairing for the Lions would be and his thoughts on former teammate Israel Folau. And Springbok centre Jesse Kriel looks ahead to the Lions Tour in South Africa, who he’s looking forward to playing against and whether the Springboks are coming into the series a little undercooked.

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2021

Fijian superstar Nemani Nodolo joins Lee, Seánie and Goodie to chat about the two Pacific Island teams joining Super Rugby and the positive impact it will have on the sport in that region. He also talks about his love of BBQs, dealing with the British weather and starting up his own YouTube channel. The guys also discuss the forthcoming law changes for the Rainbow Cup and Goodie reflects on his time in Japan as he prepares to head home.

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2021

As Warren Gatland reveals his British and Irish Lions coaching team, Foxy and Seánie join Lee to give their verdict on his four assistants. They discuss the individual merits of the coaches and explain how it’s just not the players that enjoy a night out on tour. Foxy gives us the inside track on why the Welsh regions are underperforming in Europe and we meet the inspirational Zainab Alema, who is encouraging black and Muslim women to play rugby.

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2021

Scotland captain Stuart Hogg joins Lee, Jamie and Seánie to reflect on his side’s Six Nations Campaign. He also talks about life at Exeter and why he wishes he'd had made the move earlier in his career. Jamie explains how tough it was inside the England bubble for the Six Nations, and ahead of Sale’s Champions Cup quarter-final, Marland Yarde joins the pod and reveals what makes Alex Sanderson such a good coach.

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2021

Former Lions captain Sam Warburton joins Lee and Seánie to reflect on the Six Nations and picks his Lions starting XV for the first Test against South Africa. He also explains why he left the Wales coaching set up, what he misses about rugby and that the rumours he can’t handle his drink are true. Also, Marlie Packer joins the pod from the Red Roses training camp ahead of their opening Six Nations fixture against Scotland.

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2021

Wales fly-half Dan Biggar joins Lee, Seanie and Foxy to talk through the emotions of that last-minute defeat to France in Paris. They discuss whether the integrity of the 6 Nations should be questioned with France’s rearranged match taking place against a weakened Scotland. Also, the guys break down why England came up short and react to the news that the Lions Tour will take place in South Africa this summer.

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2021