This week on Talking About A Carpool, hosts Ofa Fainga’anuku (Sydney, Australia) and Semisi Telefoni, aka “The Wine Chief” (Auckland, New Zealand), take you on a multi-part journey through rugby and personal development:

Segment 1: Talk Story

Starts at (3:08)

The hosts share personal stories and discuss the idea of “personal brand” by comparing themselves to brands (Ben & Jerry’s, Fear of God). They reflect on how personal actions shape reputation, both intentionally and unintentionally.

Segment 2: Da Latest Scoop

Starts at (9:29)

Rundown of the latest results and league tables from European rugby competitions. Focus on Championship Rugby, Top 14, and Pro D2, with detailed match results and table standings. Discussion of upcoming Champions Cup and Challenge Cup dates.

Segment 3: Da Kuleana – Responsibility (Education Segment: Building Your Personal Brand)

Starts at (17:48)

Deep dive into personal branding for rugby players: what it means, why it matters, and how to build and protect it.

Advice for young players and parents on professionalism, conduct, and social media presence.

Real-life stories about reputation, character, and the impact of actions on and off the field.

Q&A: When to start thinking about personal brand, protecting your name, and showing professionalism before “making it.”

Segment 4: Da Big Wave – International Test Wrap Up

Starts at (1:05:02)

Recap of international test matches: Samoa’s World Cup qualification, Autumn Nations Series, and performances of Pacific and Southern Hemisphere teams. Analysis of All Blacks, Australia, and other major teams’ recent games and challenges.

Segment 5: Pau Hana Game – Who Am I?

Starts at (1:16:32)

The hosts play a fun rugby-themed guessing game, challenging each other with clues about famous players.

Outro

Starts at (1:36:44)

Preview of next week’s education topic: financial literacy for players. Encouragement for players and parents to use rugby as a pathway to global opportunities. Listener Q&A invitation: Email questions to talkingaboutacarpo@gmail.com

Music Credit:

Intro and Outro Music by Wesley Winn - I B U (All my life)