Confidence, Crisis & Comebacks – Life Beyond the Game : Ollie Phillips

Ollie Phillips is more than a rugby legend — he’s a master of reinvention.

In this raw and inspiring conversation, the former World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year opens up about the highs of professional sport, the lows of career-ending injury, and the emotional transformation that followed.

We talk:

• Confidence and playing without fear
• Why players must focus on their strengths
• Language, culture & thriving abroad
• The dark side of transition after rugby
• Therapy, self-reflection, and building a new identity
• Creating Optimist Performance — a business rooted in leadership & human development

Whether you're an athlete, leader, or someone facing life after big change — this episode will hit home.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Oli Phillips

04:31 Lessons from the Game

08:53 The Importance of Confidence and Environment

15:03 Embracing New Cultures and Languages

19:59 Transitioning from Rugby to Corporate Life

27:56 Dealing with Personal Challenges and Growth

37:07 The Role of Feedback in Performance

51:09 Creating a Supportive Environment for Growth

01:00:09 Oli's Business Ventures and Philosophy

01:09:53 Final Thoughts and Lessons Learned

🔗 Follow Ollie: https://www.instagram.com/olliephillips11/🌍 Follow Optimist Performance: https://www.optimistperformance.com/about-us/

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