Between Two Beers Podcast - Sir John Kirwan: Mastering The Mind

Sir John Kirwan is one of the greatest players to have played rugby and was one of the biggest names in New Zealand sport in the 80s and 90s. An All Blacks legend he switched codes in 1995 and became a Warrior, before moving into coaching.

Incredibly though, his work off the field is just as impressive, having been at the forefront of mental health awareness for over 15 years working to shine the light on the dark world of depression – an illness he suffered himself while at the top of his game as an athlete. In 2012 he was knighted for his services to mental health and rugby.

His three kids have excelled in beach volleyball, football, and rowing. His passion for Italy comes through in his business JK.14 Wines with his daughter Francesca, and can regularly been seen on TV putting across strong opinions on rugby.

This was a powerful episode that delved deep into JK’s upbringing, lessons from his late father, and charts his mental health journey with some important messages for everyone.