Coaching Culture with Ben Herring – Details, episodes & analysis

I’m Ben Herring, and I want to welcome you to Coaching Culture with Ben Herring. If you’re looking to sharpen your coaching craft by exploring more than just drills and tactics, you’ve come to the right place.

Coaching Culture is your weekly deep-dive into the often-overlooked “softer skills” of coaching—cultural innovation, communication, empathy, leadership, and motivation. Each episode features candid conversations with the world’s top international rugby coaches, who share the personal stories and intangible insights behind their winning cultures, and their biggest failures and what they learnt from them. This is where X’s and O’s meet heart and soul.

If you believe that the real gold in rugby lies beyond the scoreboard, Coaching Culture is the podcast for you.

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What if the key to a thriving sports team lies not just in strategy, but in deeply understanding its cultural fabric? Join us as we sit down with the legendary coach Eddie Jones, who unpacks the essence of culture and leadership in sports. Eddie shares captivating stories from his coaching journey at Leicester, with the Springboks, and the Japanese team, illustrating how recognizing and respecting a team's core cultural values can lead to remarkable growth. Discover how authenticity and player feedback reveal not only individual strengths but also the deeper values that drive team success.

As societal norms evolve, so too must coaching strategies. Our conversation with Eddie delves into how shifts from team-oriented to individualistic approaches, especially in places like Japan and Australia, challenge traditional coaching methods. We explore how coaches can adapt to these new dynamics by "walking the floor" to understand team chemistry and identify emerging leaders. Eddie's insights into delegating responsibilities within larger squads underscore the importance of multiple voices in reinforcing team culture, while contrasting motivations of past national pride with today's focus on unity through the sport itself.

Leadership and belief are at the heart of Eddie’s coaching philosophy. Drawing parallels to business strategies, he discusses the relentless drive required for success, illustrated by experiences with Suntory and the Japanese team. We examine the role of fear in leadership and its ability to command respect, much like parenting. The art of giving constructive feedback without breeding resentment is another key theme, emphasizing the need for understanding individual player needs and fostering a sense of belonging. Eddie’s candid anecdotes and strategies offer a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to excel in coaching and leadership.

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Rugby legend Steve Hansen joins us to unravel the secrets of building an unbreakable team culture. Discover how the invisible thread of shared values can bind not just sports teams but businesses and families too. Steve shares his philosophy that team priorities should always come first, offering practical insights on fostering open dialogue and making tough decisions when individual goals clash with the collective vision. Through his experiences, we learn the importance of living these values consistently from the top down.

We take a closer look at the distinction between expectations and culture within organizations, shedding light on how culture nurtures communication, safety, and mutual respect. This episode also highlights measurable aspects of culture—like punctuality and pride in work—and how they signal the health of an environment. Steve's perspectives on cultural dynamics in Japan serve as a fascinating case study, illustrating the delicate balance between tradition and progress and emphasizing the significance of subtle, respectful change.

Egos and leadership take center stage as we explore their complex relationship. Steve offers a candid look at how ego, when managed well, can fuel passion and focus but warns against it becoming a barrier to personal growth. We dive into the essence of authentic leadership, where emotional intelligence and adaptability are key. Steve's anecdotes underscore the importance of a leader's honesty and authenticity, framing success as helping others reach their goals and celebrating their achievements, creating a truly rewarding team atmosphere. Join us for an insightful conversation on mastering ego, adaptability, and leadership success.

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Kieran Crowley, a rugby legend and former All Black, joins us to unlock the secrets of building team culture across borders. Discover how Kieran's journey from New Zealand to Canada and Italy has shaped his understanding of cultural dynamics in international rugby coaching. His stories from the field provide a rich tapestry of insights into the delicate art of managing diverse teams, navigating logistical challenges, and embracing the existing cultures before making impactful changes. Trust and loyalty emerge as cornerstones of his coaching philosophy, offering a masterclass in effective team management.

As we traverse through the complexities of international coaching, Kieran sheds light on the nuanced challenges of transitioning from local clubs to national teams. Explore the cultural diversity within New Zealand rugby and the unique hurdles faced in countries like Canada, with its vast geographical spread, and Italy, where internal politics often complicate coaching decisions. Kieran's experiences reveal the contrasting freedoms of coaching club teams in Italy and Japan, where deeper player connections lead to greater cohesion. The episode takes a raw look at the intricacies of maintaining a positive environment amidst the pressures of high-stakes rugby.

Kieran also opens up about the emotional resilience required to navigate setbacks and criticism in his coaching career. He candidly shares his coping mechanisms, leaning on trusted colleagues and family when the stress of the job takes its toll. Reflection on his evolution from a successful player to a coach reveals how empathy and a player-focused approach have become integral to his coaching style. Through personal stories and professional insights, Kieran illustrates the balance between passion and demands, showcasing the broader life lessons sports have to offer.

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Renowned rugby coach Johan Ackerman joins us to reveal the secret to building a successful team culture — one that emerges organically from the collective rather than being imposed from the top down. Through his experiences across the globe and his time in the police force, Johan explores how fostering a supportive environment where players contribute to the team's cultural fabric is key. Listen as he shares insights on balancing professional and personal relationships, especially when coaching his own son, and how these elements mold a cohesive and resilient team.

Discover how team-building activities like barbecues and shared games can transform team dynamics, break down barriers, and promote mutual respect. Johan explains the process of establishing core values within a team and how these principles can become the backbone of performance and accountability. His stories emphasize the importance of resilience, gratitude, and respect, urging players to define their own identities and motivations, which ultimately drives both personal and team success.

Johan's coaching philosophy also intertwines with his strong Christian faith, providing a deeper purpose and resilience in leadership. From navigating the challenges of uniting rival teams in Japan to harnessing the power of laughter and enjoyment during tense playoff weeks, Johan offers experiences that highlight the importance of positive coaching environments. This episode not only sheds light on the father-son dynamic in sports but also underscores Johan's dedication to investing in players' lives beyond the field, positioning him as a coach who truly prioritizes holistic development.

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Rugby enthusiasts and culture aficionados alike, prepare for a fascinating conversation with Paul Tito, affectionately known in the rugby world as "Fish." A seasoned veteran whose career spans over 25 years, Paul shares his journey from New Plymouth Boys High School to captaining renowned teams like the New Zealand Maori and Cardiff. Discover how his transition from player to coach has been fueled by a commitment to fostering team culture and leadership. With his trademark honesty and humor, Paul offers insights into the challenges faced by structured rugby nations and the enduring importance of camaraderie and genuine connections, even in the age of professionalization.

In a world where technical prowess often overshadows human connection, Paul reminds us of the powerful role mentors play in shaping a player's ethos. Through stories of pivotal influences like Andy Slater and Kevin Barrett, Paul sheds light on his decision to remain loyal to his province, becoming a centurion and championing the essence of team spirit. Through humorous anecdotes and candid reflections, Paul highlights how empowering players and encouraging open communication can lead to seamless team dynamics. Embrace the lessons learned from diverse coaching experiences, from France to the All Blacks, and the art of reading the room to bridge cultural divides.

From navigating tough decisions in France to embodying authenticity in high-pressure environments, Paul offers a masterclass in resilience and adaptability. His journey, marked by personal sacrifices and a supportive family, underscores the courage required to thrive beyond the mainstream. Tune in for an episode that celebrates the power of unity, accountability, and the often underappreciated art of listening in sports leadership.

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Chris Webb, a luminary in high-performance sports management, shares captivating stories from his tenure in rugby, spanning World Cups with top teams like Australia and Japan. Tune in as Chris recounts his journey from rural New South Wales with aspirations of becoming a stock and station agent, to a career in rugby management. His reflections on people management and the value of making each day meaningful provide valuable life lessons, offering listeners wisdom from both his professional and personal experiences. 

Explore the forward-thinking initiatives in rugby that focus on player welfare and career development, demonstrating how the sport has long prioritized preparing players for life beyond the field. Hear about the transformative transition from amateur to professional rugby and the dynamic roles that sports management entails. Sharing my own unique career journey, which blends experiences from rugby and equestrian sports, this episode delves into how versatility and adaptability, especially in the face of challenges like COVID-19, are crucial for maintaining a harmonious work-life balance.

Discover the nuanced dynamics of leadership within Rugby Australia, highlighted by the challenging transition of replacing coach Dave Rennie with Eddie Jones. Chris Webb underscores the critical role of resilience, communication, and culture in high-stakes environments. Through insights gathered from working with renowned coaches, we emphasize the importance of fostering strong relationships and a positive organizational culture. This episode is a rich tapestry of experiences and insights, focusing on the power of interpersonal connections and the importance of fostering individual growth in achieving success on and off the field.

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Trust and connection are the cornerstones of any winning sports culture. In this engaging episode, we're joined by rugby legend James O'Connor, who reflects on his incredible journey in professional sports. With nearly two decades under his belt, James shares his unique insights on how coaching significantly shapes team dynamics and individual performances.

Coaches play an instrumental role in creating an environment where players feel safe, valued, and heard. James emphasizes that open and honest communication is essential for building trust. He discusses the importance of authentic relationships and how they not only enhance function on the field but also cater to the emotional well-being of players. Throughout our conversation, listeners will gain invaluable advice on navigating difficult conversations, fostering a supportive atmosphere, and understanding the impact of coaching styles.

Furthermore, James underscores the need for a balanced approach to leadership that recognizes the individual talents of players while cultivating a cohesive team spirit. He sheds light on his experiences with various coaching techniques, urging coaches to embrace their vulnerabilities to lead more effectively and connect deeply with their teams. 

Our discussion serves as a reminder that sports are about more than just competition—it's about the human connections that drive success. James illustrates that when players come together, supported by a culture of respect and care, they are more likely to thrive. This episode is a must-listen for coaches, athletes, and anyone interested in understanding the vital role of culture in achieving excellence. Tune in to discover powerful lessons that can transform your coaching journey, foster growth, and inspire greatness. If you found value in this episode, please subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave a review!

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Rugby has always been about far more than the scoreboard. At its heart, it's about belonging—being part of something bigger than ourselves. Few understand this better than Glenn Delaney, whose coaching journey has taken him from Nottingham to London Irish, Canterbury, the Highlanders, the Scarlets, and now Mitsubishi in Japan.

"Culture is an observation that others make of you," Glenn explains, breaking down his triangular leadership philosophy of values, behaviors, and identity. Rather than prescribing rigid behaviors, he focuses on understanding what each player brings and how their natural tendencies can strengthen the collective. This approach acknowledges diversity while creating a cohesive identity that outsiders recognize through consistent interactions.

What truly sets Glenn apart is his "80-20 rule": maintain consistency 80% of the time so your team knows exactly what to expect, but keep them on their toes with 20% unpredictability. This calculated unpredictability—like having Tom Youngs throw petanque balls as preparation for becoming a hooker—creates engagement and prevents complacency. It's the coaching equivalent of the mad scientist who occasionally blows up the lab, ensuring everyone pays attention because they never know what might happen next.

Perhaps most touching is Glenn's commitment to connection. "The biggest job I do every day is to connect and say good morning to everybody in the building," he shares. These seemingly small interactions allow him to gauge emotional states, identify who needs additional support, and build the invisible threads that strengthen teams. His storytelling ability turns technical lessons into memorable narratives, helping players process challenges through historical context and shared references.

Having weathered professional setbacks, including being let go from London Irish, Glenn embraces authenticity above all else. "You're driving the train, but remember it's not your train set," he advises coaches navigating the unpredictable landscape of professional sport. Want to thrive in coaching? Bring your whole self—coffee addiction, colorful language, and all. Your team will thank you for it.

Subscribe now and join our conversation about what truly builds championship teams, on and off the field.

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Conrad Smith unpacks the anatomy of winning team culture with remarkable clarity and authenticity. Drawing from his 94 tests with the All Blacks and captaincy experience with the Hurricanes, Smith reveals how culture transcends motivational posters and becomes a living force within truly great teams.

Smith's framework for culture starts with vision—that high-level aspiration everyone buys into—but he quickly moves beyond theory to practical application. "Values are difficult," he acknowledges, "because any team can put 'trust' and 'teamwork' on a wall." The difference lies in behaviors: concrete actions that demonstrate values in real time. The famous All Blacks tradition of "sweeping the sheds" wasn't just symbolic but a tangible behavior reinforcing their commitment to staying grounded regardless of success.

Leadership emerges as the crucial final element, with Smith candidly reflecting on his own growth from a player who noticed problems but remained silent to one who respectfully held teammates accountable. His transformation accelerated when coach Mark Hammett controversially released several Hurricanes stars, forcing Smith to step up when nothing was left but "to make a difference." His goal wasn't championships but simply making players "want to be a Hurricane again"—prioritizing culture over silverware.

Perhaps most revealing is Smith's assessment of his own success despite physical limitations. "I was pinned under the bench press in my first gym session," he laughs, attributing his rise to being coachable—listening, asking good questions, and working relentlessly. This approach prevented coaches from having any excuse to drop him, even when he wasn't the strongest or fastest.

Ready to transform your team? Discover why culture isn't some "airy-fairy" concept but the bedrock of sustainable performance, and learn practical ways to build behaviors that reflect your values rather than just writing them on walls.

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