About this episode
In this episode of Lessons from the Game , Adam Innes opens up about his journey from Aussie rugby league hopeful to coaching champion in France. He reveals hard-earned lessons on coaching philosophy, accountability, and how to connect with athletes from different cultures. Adam shares how injury, depression, and purpose outside the game shaped his coaching identity — and how coaching the person is more powerful than just focusing on the player. Key themes: Belief in your coaching system Managing modern athletes and social media distractions The power of routine and repetition Getting buy-in and building accountability Why vision beats motivation Lessons for young coaches transitioning post-playing career 00:00 Intro: From Australia to France 02:31 Player to Coach: No Experience, Big Vision 04:38 Coaching Philosophy: Believe in Your System 09:13 Routine, Repetition and Control 10:20 Coaching Gen Z: Social Media, Sensitivity and Standards 14:51 Coach the Person Not Just the Player 16:51 The Truth About Overweight Athletes 20:20 Transitioning from Teammate to Coach 23:17 Why Emotional Intelligence Beats Yelling 26:41 Vision vs Motivation: The Power of Accountability 29:04 Building a Player Accountability System 31:21 Lessons from the Game: What Adam Would Tell His 20-Year-Old Self 35:21 Realistic Morning Routines for Athletes 40:07 The Magic of Consistency 44:11 Skill Mastery and Muscle Memory 47:19 Advice for Young Coaches 50:50 Evolving as a Coach: From Systems to Human Connection 53:04 Learning to Listen and Lead Beyond the Data 56:29 Nutrition Culture and Educating Players 60:04 Mental Health: Adam’s Rock Bottom Story 66:22 Final Lessons: Life Beyond the Game 68:52 Outro and Where to Find Adam A must-listen for players, coaches, and anyone committed to growth on and off the field. 🔔 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