At just 26 years old, Nathan Cleary already boasts three premiership titles, state and national representation, and is widely regarded as one of the best in the game.

In this final episode of Marlee and Me Season 1, Nathan welcomes us into his childhood home, which he purchased from his parents a few years ago.

Growing up with a father who was an NRL coach and quickly catching the attention of fans, Nathan has been in the spotlight since his teenage years. Surprisingly, he opens up more than expected in this conversation, offering a rare, candid glimpse into his life.

Throughout this podcast series, it has become clear that family plays a central role in shaping the greats, and Nathan is no exception. The lessons from his parents and the deep love and responsibility he feels for his siblings provide insight into his drive to succeed.

You will also hear about the unexpected emotions Nathan experienced during his recent hamstring injury and the pressures of having the country invested in his relationship with Mary Fowler.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Dharug people.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Widely regarded as one of the best to ever play the game, and recently inducted into the NRL’s Hall of Fame, Johnathan Thurston is an icon. 

Famous for his 2015 grand final field goal, his uncanny ability to curve conversions from the sideline, and his infectious laugh.

Today, beyond his legendary footy career, we explore his life, fatherhood, family, and finding pride in his identity as an Aboriginal man.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples.

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Connor Watson, Roosters and Blues star, co-founded the nonprofit Cultural Choice Association, which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children by helping them access mental health resources.

The organisation gained attention during the NRL’s Indigenous round with football boots featuring Aboriginal art. Over the years, Cultural Choice Association has made a significant impact on the younger generation, with Watson being recognised for his dedication both on and off the field.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Gadigal people.

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One of the most exciting wingers in the NRL, the Cronulla Sharks’ Ronaldo Mulitalo has made a name for himself through his try scoring acrobatics and a passion on the field that sometimes boils over and gets under his opponents skin. 

Off the field, he’s larger than life! A true extrovert that describes himself as someone who gets his energy from being around his teammates and having a good time. 

But Ronny’s path to his NRL dream has been anything but smooth and easy. Growing up in South Auckland before moving with his family to Queensland for a better life, Ronny spent some of his childhood homeless and sleeping in the leaky garage of a family friend's home. There were dark times and plenty of uncertainties but it was the fearlessness and strength of his Mum which was the guiding light for Ronny and his siblings through it all. 

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Dharawal people, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

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In this episode we sit down with Brisbane Broncos forward Jordan Riki. 

Jordan’s journey from growing up in New Zealand to making his mark in the NRL is nothing short of inspiring. 

We’ll dive deep into the role his family and culture have played in shaping the man he is today. We’re also lucky enough to have Jordan’s Grandfather or Koroua join us for a yarn.

We also discuss the challenge Jordan faced after losing his close mate Liam Hampson.

Get ready for an honest and heartfelt conversation about life, legacy, and the passion that drives Jordan both on and off the field.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Toorabul and Yuggera peoples, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kalyn Ponga, superstar fullback at the Newcastle Knights.

2023 Dally M Medalist, a sporting prodigy who, at the age of 15 was being head hunted by six clubs across three different sports.

That story is the one most rugby league fans have heard of. This isn’t that story.

Kalyn Ponga, the proud Maori man, the big brother, the loyal friend the proud son

That’s who you’ll hear from in this episode.

Sitting in his lounge room, accompanied by his beloved Aussie Shepard, Sadie.

With an open heart, generosity and vulnerability, Kalyn tells me his story.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Awabakal people, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.