Beyond the Game: Rugby Legend Sir John Kirwan on Mental Health, Culture and Real Change

Please note: this episode includes discussion of mental health and suicide. If this feels close to home, take care while listening. Support is available via 1737 (NZ), free to call or text, anytime.A raw and grounded conversation on mental health, leadership, and why mental health education needs to start early. Sir John Kirwan, one of New Zealand’s greatest rugby players, shares how his own lived experience has shaped the work he’s doing today, using his platform to drive meaningful change for the next generation.Through the Sir John Kirwan Foundation and Mitey, an initiative designed for New Zealand children, schools are supported to deliver an evidence based approach to mental health education from Years 1 to 8. It’s about giving young people the language and tools to understand their wellbeing before it becomes something heavier.Host Clare Irons also explores the experiences that shaped JK’s perspective, from Māngere to time spent in Italy and Japan, and how culture, relationships, and family have influenced the way he understands emotion, resilience, and leadership today.