The Lessons From The Game Podcast

Why Coaching the Human First Changes Everything ⎮ Adam Innes


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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.


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    The Lessons From The Game PodcastBy Gurthro Steenkamp