Episode 5: Justin Hodges - The Origin of a Leader

In this powerhouse episode, the boys sit down with rugby league legend Justin Hodges, unpacking not just his decorated career but the mindset, heart, and leadership lessons that shaped him. From humble beginnings in Cairns to State of Origin glory and captaining the Broncos, Hodges reflects with raw honesty on what it takes to win — and what it means to lead. He shares personal stories about family sacrifice, overcoming self-doubt, learning from Wayne Bennett, and transitioning into mentoring young people and business leaders today. This is an episode packed with wisdom, laughs, and the kind of vulnerability that sticks with you long after the final whistle.⏱️ Episode Breakdown0:00 – Opening Banter + Guest Intro Sam and Aaron welcome their first, and highest-profile, guest yet: Justin Hodges. A two-time NRL premiership winner, Origin great, Australian rep, professional boxer, and all-round cracking bloke.2:20 – Playing With Legends & What Makes Great Teams Hodges talks about what it was like playing alongside JT, Lockyer, Cam Smith, and others — and how trust and accountability built Queensland’s Origin dynasty.6:45 – Growing Up in Cairns & Finding Purpose Justin reflects on his tough upbringing, nearly losing his mum to cancer at age 10, and how that moment became his lifelong motivation to succeed.13:40 – Signing at 16 Years Old & the Broncos Pathway Including why Wayne insisted his parents move with him to Brisbane.18:55 – Leadership Lessons & Becoming Co-Captain How a no-nonsense mindset had to evolve into one of empathy, support, and building confidence in teammates. Big lessons from Paul White and Wayne Bennett on emotional intelligence in leadership.25:20 – Origin Memories & Brotherhood on the Field That infamous retaliatory bomb after Steve Price was knocked out — Hodges recounts how brotherhood and loyalty drove some of Origin’s most intense moments.31:40 – Tough Coaches, Tougher Family Revealing stories about his dad, Roy Hodges, who’d pull him off the field for a missed tackle as a kid — and how that shaped his mentality for life.35:10 – Confidence, Setbacks & Resetting Focus Why confidence is everything in sport and business — and how leaders and coaches can make or break someone’s belief in themselves.40:00 – The Power of Wayne Bennett’s Leadership Stories of how Wayne took pressure off players, knew when something was wrong without saying a word, and why EQ is a coach’s superpower.44:15 – Life After Footy: Mentoring, Business & Purpose Hodges now mentors young people through wellbeing and leadership programs — helping them understand their potential, seek help, and build resilience.47:00 – Quickfire GOAT RoundListen to hear Hodgo's toughest opponent, bigger rush (boxing ring vs. Gallen), Origin Highlight, and desert island teammate pick!48:30 – Final Words Hodges leaves listeners with a powerful reminder: open, honest, vulnerable conversations are what create real change. 🎧 Catch all episodes of One Goat and the Property Guys — streaming now on your favourite podcast platform. 💬 Loved the chat? Hit follow, leave a review, and help us uncover more GOAT-worthy stories. 🏡 Keen to connect?  Visit 👉 www.propertycentre.au