Talkin' Ruggers

Ever wondered how a pro rugby player turns early retirement into one of the biggest online rugby coaching brands in the world? Ben John (aka @therugbytrainer) shows us how it’s done. ⚡

Ben John — better known as The Rugby Trainer — grew up playing rugby in Wales during their golden generation. His love for all sports became his point of difference on the field — helping him rise through the Welsh age-grade system and eventually earn a spot with the Ospreys, one of Wales’ top professional rugby teams. 🏉

Repeated injuries and concussions forced him to retire earlier than expected… but this was only the beginning of his rugby journey. ⚡

After stepping away from the game to work as a personal trainer in London, Ben spotted a gap in the market during lockdown for high-quality online rugby coaching and practical rugby training tips — and, just like on the field, he took it. 💻

What makes Ben’s rugby coaching brand unique today is how he blends elite rugby playing experience with simple, practical coaching that players at every level can use to improve their rugby skills, fitness, and game performance. That approach has taken him from filming home rugby training sessions to working with some of the biggest teams and best players in international rugby. 🌍

In this episode, we chat about Ben’s journey from professional rugby player to rugby content creator, how he built one of the most recognisable online rugby coaching brands, and the systems he uses to help players develop their rugby skills and level up their game. 🎥

OJ and The Rugby Trainer dive into how rugby coaching is evolving in the digital age — from Ben’s transition from player to coach, to how playing multiple sports shaped his rugby IQ, and how injuries challenges reshaped his career path. They also discuss the importance of sports psychology, finding genuine passion in your work, and building a rugby coaching brand that balances purpose, structure, and creativity. 💡

Ben shares his proudest coaching achievements, lessons learned working with players at all levels, and strategies behind his social media growth for rugby coaching. The conversation highlights the evolving rugby community and why connection, communication, and belonging are more important than ever for the sport. 🏆

Follow Ben on Instagram 👉 @therugbytrainer 👈