Backstage with Cooper & Matty Johns

The hosts and guests reflect on the intense Grand Final between the Newcastle Knights and the Roosters, analyzing key player performances such as James Tedesco's dominance, Kalem Ponga's incredible try, and Daniel Tupou's impact. The discussion covers the strategic elements of the match, including the effectiveness of short dropouts and the influence of bench players like Spencer Lenu. The conversation also touches on the passionate Newcastle community, personal anecdotes regarding premiership rings, and a look toward the future of the Knights' young roster. The episode concludes with reflections on sportsmanship and the lasting memories of championship glory.

The hosts and guests delve into the rich history of the Newcastle Knights, reflecting on the club's foundational DNA characterized by toughness and a deep connection to the local community. The conversation traverses memories of legendary players like Andrew Johns, the dominance of 90s era teams, and the intense emotional weight of the 1997 premiership era. Beyond the field, the episode explores personal anecdotes ranging from chaotic post-game celebrations and club culture to tactical reflections on modern gameplay. The discussion concludes with predictions for upcoming matchups, focusing on the impact of emerging talent and key player dynamics.

The Johns family discusses Trish's recent travels and a chance encounter with actress Toni Collette, before transitioning into a detailed account of Matthew's intense medical emergency involving rib pain and an ambulance ride. The conversation covers various injuries within their circle, including Trish's ankle injury and Poppy's recent surgery. The hosts also touch on recent events like the NRLW final and the Titans Awards, alongside discussions on the rising cost of living, recession-proof businesses, and a terrifying horse riding anecdote. The episode concludes with updates on their tipping competition standings and predictions for the upcoming grand final week.

The hosts discuss the intense excitement surrounding the upcoming rugby league grand final between the Newcastle Knights and the Roosters, analyzing team news, player availability, and the historical significance of the Newcastle region. The episode delves into tactical shifts in the game, comparing defensive styles and examining strategies for managing elite kickers and middle forwards. The discussion transitions into specific match predictions, highlighting key players like Fletcher Sharp and Sam Walker while evaluating Newcastle's underdog narrative. The episode concludes with score predictions and a teaser for a major announcement expected to be released this coming Saturday.

The hosts reflect on the deep emotional connection and culture of the Newcastle Knights, discussing their recent victory, defensive grit, and the importance of community alignment. The conversation explores the aggressive 'no respect' mentality adopted by teams like Penrith and the psychological tactics used in high-stakes rugby league. The episode also analyzes individual player performances, including the impact of Mark Noga-Sia for the Roosters, the natural instincts of Fijian players, and the necessity of adrenaline control in big games. The discussion concludes with tributes to the legendary temperament of Cameron Smith and historical anecdotes regarding the Knights' legacy.

The hosts of the Cooper and Matty Johns podcast discuss global listener statistics, cultural stereotypes, and recent family celebrations, including Gail's 75th birthday. The conversation touches on everything from modern home security technology and rural Australian dining patterns to memories of drive-thru restaurants. The episode also covers topics such as Albanian ancestry, NRLW finals, and the use of drones for fishing. The hosts conclude with reflections on leisure activities like axe-throwing, potential AFL Grand Final entertainment, rugby league predictions, and a musical tribute to Paul Young.

The hosts discuss the entertainment lineup for the NRL Grand Final, debating whether artists like Tones and I should perform their biggest hits to please a general crowd. They also touch upon recent refereeing controversies involving Ashley Klein. The episode features an in-depth analysis of upcoming matchups, including the contrast between the Roosters' unpredictable attacking style and the Dolphins' defensive vulnerabilities. The discussion extends to the tactical battle between the Penrith Panthers and Newcastle Knights, examining Nathan Cleary's physical condition and key player matchups, before concluding with game predictions and 'crunch time' players.

The hosts review recent NRL action, beginning with a look at the Warriors vs. Knights clash and Justin Holbrook's transformative coaching impact on Newcastle. The discussion delves into Newcastle's playing style, focusing on Kalen Ponga's ability to exploit gaps and the emergence of young talent like Jermaine Hopgood. The episode also analyzes the Roosters' victory over the Sharks, highlighting Sam Walker's x-factor, and examines the Sharks' recent struggles with roster turnover. The conversation concludes by exploring how hitting 'rock bottom' can serve as a catalyst for growth, using both the Sharks' mid-table position and legendary cricketer Brian Lara as examples.

The hosts kick off the episode with a chaotic, banter-filled discussion involving personal anecdotes, social media feedback, and lighthearted debates about sports like AFLW and NRLW. The conversation shifts through various topics, including upcoming travel plans to Italy and Amsterdam, a humorous poem dedicated to tradies, and a Jonas Brothers trivia quiz. The latter half of the episode explores celebrity trivia regarding forgotten siblings and a viral story about an athlete's physical mishap during a Hyrox competition. The episode concludes with the group sharing their rugby league betting predictions for the upcoming week.

The hosts examine the intense pressure of week two of the NRL finals, focusing on Nathan Cleary's potential foot injury and its implications for the Penrith Panthers. The discussion also covers the debate over televising judiciary hearings and provides a tactical preview of the Roosters vs. Sharks elimination final. Additionally, the episode analyzes the high-stakes matchup between the Warriors and the Knights at Eden Park. The speakers evaluate player injuries, team dynamics, and the psychological impact of playing at iconic venues, ultimately debating which side will emerge victorious in this clash.

The hosts dive into recent NRL and AFLW updates, featuring a deep analysis of the Penrith versus Roosters clash, including Nathan Cleary's tactical field goal and the importance of player intensity. The discussion covers various match reviews, from the Sharks' reliance on Blake Brailey to the high-intensity battle between the Warriors and Dolphins. The episode also explores the Newcastle Knights' defensive efforts against the Rabbitohs, the physical rivalry between Dane Gagai and Latrell Mitchell, and the financial pressures facing the Dolphins' roster. The show concludes with a look at the passion of Newcastle fans and a lighthearted attempt at improvising clickbait content.

The hosts of the Cooper and Maddie Johns podcast engage in a wide-ranging conversation, beginning with humorous banter about family dynamics, house renovations, and studio rules for their dog, Luigi. The discussion moves through personal anecdotes, including a trip to an underground mine in Cobar and the ethics of intervening in natural events. The episode also explores musical legacies, featuring reflections on the Oasis documentary 'Don't Look and Back in Anger', the songwriting genius of Jim Steinman, and various celebrity stories. The hosts conclude with comedic pitches for an NRL-themed amusement park and their final predictions for the NRL Grand Final.

The hosts dive into various rugby league topics, examining the impact of ruck speed on players like Harry Grant and debating the financial value of the minor premiership. The discussion also covers the controversy surrounding 'tanking' in sports drafts. Moving into the NRL finals, the episode previews key matchups including South Sydney vs. Newcastle, the Warriors vs. Dolphins, and Penrith vs. Roosters. The analysis covers team form, injury impacts, venue considerations like stadium connection, and the tactical evolution of the Penrith Panthers.

This episode features a deep dive into the South Sydney Rabbitohs, featuring CEO Blake to discuss club culture, the profound impact of Jai Arrow's MND diagnosis on the rugby league community, and the potential NRL acquisition of the Super League. The conversation explores the historical significance of star player movements and the club's deep-rooted connection to its community. The discussion also covers the leadership and lasting legacy of Wayne Bennett at South Sydney, alongside coaching rumors and the impact of social media on young athletes. Finally, the speakers compare the innovation and growth of the NRL against the AFL and Rugby Union, noting how strategic social media engagement is helping capture a younger demographic.

The hosts address listener feedback regarding recent podcast quality before paying tribute to the late boxer Tony Mundine. The episode features a variety of lighthearted discussions, including an alternative careers game, childhood dreams, and personal anecdotes involving rugby league skills and hidden jazz clubs in Sydney. The conversation also touches on serious topics such as the challenges of MND diagnosis and medical awareness. The episode concludes with a competitive jazz trivia quiz, stories about hitchhiking and passports, and a musical performance of Lionel Richie's 'Hello'.

The hosts discuss their current interests, ranging from recent TV series and audiobooks to the importance of allowing for boredom to process information. They delve into sports-related biographies, specifically examining Cameron Smith's autobiography and a biography of Michael Jordan, focusing on themes of leadership, pressure, and intense competitiveness. The conversation also covers audiobook recommendations such as 'Legacy' by James Kerr, which explores the culture of the All Blacks and Melbourne Storm. Additionally, the speakers discuss the historical context of the rise of Russian oligarchs in 'McMafia' and conclude with suggestions for fiction titles.

The hosts share personal updates, ranging from experiences watching AFLW to anecdotes about rugby league star Harry Grant and the professionalism of Russell Crowe on the set of 'The Last Druid'. The conversation explores professional transitions in acting, memories of the 2010 World Cup, and instances of chaos at large-scale events like Woodstock 99. The episode also delves into nostalgic school day pranks and behind-the-scenes stories from performing as 'Tim and Tom' on X Factor. Finally, the discussion covers the inspiration behind a new historical crime novel and an analysis of the current NRL landscape, including coaching pressures and the impact of league expansion.

The hosts engage in a wide-ranging conversation, beginning with tributes to Billy Boston and Dolly Parton, alongside lighthearted games about personal fears and travel anecdotes from China. The discussion explores the impact of robotics in China and debates the capabilities of AI. The episode shifts into personal stories regarding coal mining experiences and a competitive Dolly Parton-themed trivia quiz. The hosts conclude by discussing professional rivalries between physical therapists, the intense sporting cultures of private schools, and NRL predictions for the upcoming round.

In this episode, Sean Johnson discusses his transition from professional rugby league player to media personality, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a player-centric perspective in sports journalism. The conversation explores his family heritage and the inclusive culture of New Zealand rugby, specifically within the Warriors and the Kiwis. The discussion also delves into the mental challenges of professional rugby, including overcoming imposter syndrome and reflecting on career highlights like iconic tries and grand final experiences. The episode concludes with a look at the shifting landscape of international rugby league, the current form of the Warriors, and a 'King of the Ring' segment selecting the best players from Johnson's career.

The hosts welcome AFLW player Poppy Rainbow Bolts to discuss her recent performance, her Newcastle roots, and a lighthearted look at her dating history. The conversation moves through personal anecdotes involving wedding stories, the nuances of comedy, and experiences with Melbourne's public transport. The episode also explores themes of gambling through the 'Film, Fame and Vinyl' segment, covering everything from music and movies to high-stakes casino bluffs and legendary tales of Kerry Packer. The show concludes with NRL match predictions and a farewell to Poppy.

The speakers reflect on the transition from South Sydney to the Roosters, examining the club's facilities and the tactical evolution of their attack featuring players like Mitchell Pearce and Cooper Cronk. The conversation explores the impact of Cronk's departure from the Melbourne Storm and the intense mental discipline required by elite players. The episode also delves into NRL personalities, highlighting James Tedesco's physical resilience and addressing the serious long-term mental health implications of concussions. Finally, the discussion covers the fallout from Super League interview controversies and evaluates the legacies of legendary players like Boyd Cordner.

In this premiere episode, the hosts welcome former player Luke Keery to discuss his transition from professional rugby league to media work and his commitment to honest commentary. The conversation explores the importance of addressing interpersonal conflicts immediately in sports and delves into the complexities of representing New South Wales over Queensland. The discussion further reflects on various NRL career milestones, including memories of coaching under Madge Smith and playing alongside Matty King. The episode concludes with reflections on the dangers of complacency following a premiership win and the personal challenges involved in navigating club transitions and professional growth.

The hosts discuss their recent move back into their home and the domestic tensions involving family members, alongside a heated debate regarding AFL scoring systems and social media disputes. The conversation meanders through personal anecdotes, including awkward bathroom encounters, wedding plans, and reflections on the aging of rock stars. The episode also covers various unfiltered discussions ranging from memories of Japan's subway system to personal health struggles following food poisoning. The hosts conclude with a look at recent news stories, family dynamics, and weekly rugby league betting tips and transfer rumors.

The speakers explore the psychological and tactical nuances of rugby league, ranging from the mental discipline required for elite goal kicking to the dangers of complacency during winning streaks. The discussion covers critical injury impacts, specifically how Isaiah Yeo's potential absence could alter the Penrith Panthers' premiership prospects. The episode also analyzes the NRL ladder race involving the Bulldogs, Souths, and Knights, while evaluating team-specific dynamics such as the Bulldogs' edge dominance and Manly's recent struggles under interim coaching. The conversation concludes with predictions for the Newcastle Knights, thoughts on a potential global rugby league round in Tokyo, and a critique of the AFL's adoption of NRL formats.

The hosts share a variety of personal anecdotes, ranging from a recent Lebanese barbecue and embarrassing public restroom encounters to unexpected propositions at charity events and the high costs of modern weddings. The episode also features a celebratory call to Nicholas regarding his impressive goal-kicking streak. The conversation transitions into deeper discussions on the nature of narcissism and selflessness, followed by a debate over social media etiquette regarding Instagram DMs. The episode concludes with weekly rugby league betting tips and stories involving former players.

The hosts explore notable rugby league 'bounce backs,' including Laurie Daley's coaching success with New South Wales and Billy Slater's return from injury. The conversation shifts to personal reflections on health scares, weight loss, and the challenges of maintaining sobriety. The discussion deepens into the intense pressures of State of Origin coaching, focusing on trusting intuition and the leadership qualities of players like Isaah Yeo and Nathan Cleary. Finally, the episode examines the psychological impact of social media on athletes and the emotional toll high-stakes competition takes on both players and their families.

The hosts share personal updates, including recent birthdays and frustrations with the service industry and tipping culture in Australia. The conversation covers a range of topics from fitness tracking via Whoop to a tense dining experience involving an insistent customer at a Chinese restaurant. The episode continues with discussions on the 'Run P' app for movie breaks, renovation woes, and a trivia quiz covering human biology. The hosts conclude by exploring the history of smoking in rugby league environments and sharing rugby league betting predictions.

Brent Reid and the host explore the intense and evolving landscape of sports journalism, discussing the power of social media, the impact of viral stories, and the difficulty of maintaining professional relationships after publishing critical reports. They delve into the complexities of managing media relations within rugby league clubs and the scrutiny faced during major events like State of Origin. The conversation also covers personal anecdotes ranging from the rise of the internet and Bitcoin to memories of covering the Olympics and the Masters. The episode concludes with reflections on elite athletic discipline, professional soccer careers in the NSL, and a lighthearted auction draft of all-time soccer World Cup players.

The hosts discuss Matt's recent shingles diagnosis and back pain alongside various comedic tangents, including animal facts and a heartfelt tribute to a friend's sobriety. The conversation moves through personal anecdotes about Wally Lewis, the technical filming of 'The Odyssey' in IMAX, and the cultural impact of Lionel Messi. The episode also features an anatomy quiz, psychological word tricks, and the use of AI for navigating awkward questions. The show concludes with discussions on Will Ferrell's Netflix series 'The Hawk' and the hosts' weekly rugby league predictions, including a review of AI-generated betting tips.

Welcome to Part 2! Harry Grant joins the boys to discuss Storm 2026, Craig Bellamy's legacy, and who could coach Melbourne next. The Storm captain also reflects on State of Origin, Queensland's future, and leadership at the highest level. Plus, Harry shares insights on loan deals, player development, and life inside the Melbourne Storm. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Storm 2026 2:30-Craig Bellamy 7:30-Coaches 19:00-State of Origin 22:00-Loan Deal Benji & Wests Tigers Playmaker Development State of Origin 2026 Who Could Coach Storm Next? Cairns See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Part 1! Harry Grant joins the boys to discuss Storm 2026, Craig Bellamy's legacy, and who could coach Melbourne next. The Storm captain also reflects on State of Origin, Queensland's future, and leadership at the highest level. Plus, Harry shares insights on loan deals, player development, and life inside the Melbourne Storm. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Where’s Matty? 3:00-Yepoon 6:00-Sharks Attacks 8:00-Roommates 10:00-Storm Life 20:00-Army Camp Essay 27:00-Richmond Moving Weekend 35:00-The Wall of Legends See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cooper pees in a cup mid-movie, Matty loses his wallet then cries not once but twice. Born upside down, questioned about crying over inanimate objects, and still not over that massage. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Horrible Patient 6:30-Intro Question 9:00-Cooper’s Birthday 15:00-Reno Update 17:00-Kurt Morris Enthusiasts 19:00-Matty’s Canberra Trip 27:00-Project Hail Mary 33:00-Ryan Gosling Movies 40:00-NRL Tips See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hudson Young joins the pod fresh off the Blues' Origin series win to break down the victory. Plus, we dive into the Jarome Luai speculation — Eels, Bulldogs or Penrith, where's he landing? MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Breaking News 3:30-Hudson Young Interview 17:00-Jarome Luai Situation 23:00-The Voice 25:00-Auction Draft See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The boys tackle the Throat Goat, Cooper gets locked up, and Jack drops his hottest segment yet. Michael Jordan, the FIFA World Cup, and a $5.3 billion NRL bombshell all cop a mention. Matty's wild encounter closes it out before the tips roll in. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NSW pulls off the shock of the series, taking down QLD in the decider at Suncorp. A controversial try sparks fireworks and has fans split down the middle. Cleary steals the spotlight with a performance nobody saw coming. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Reaction 18:00-Best Try Controversy 21:00-NSW Changes 26:00-Best Players 33:00-Wally Lewis Medal See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Origin III Decider is here — We break down Bostock game plan, whether Nanai should start, and get into some Silly Buggers before kickoff at Suncorp. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Hypercondriacs 5:00-Ethan Strange 10:00-Jack Bostock 13:00-Jeremiah Nanai 14:00-Silly Buggers 17:00-NSW 30:00-QLD See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is the Grand Jester, plus Matty's raw reaction after returning to PNG for the first time in 20 years. The crew also breaks down "No Man's Land" and what it means. Plenty of laughs, catch-ups, and NRL tips to close it out. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-The Grand Jester 4:30-Matty’s Back from PNG! 18:00-No man’s Land 22:30-First Dates 27:00-Uncle Martin 29:00-Trish’s Week 33:00-Which One? 47:45-NRL Tips See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Blues team list just dropped and we're reacting live — plus Victor Radley, Joey Walsh and the Wahs all get a mention. The NRL's $5 billion TV rights deal is here and we break down what it actually means for fans, the salary cap, and the run home to finals. Throw in a Luke Brooks injury update and a Peter V'landys wrap to close it out. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Live Reaction to Blues Teamlist 18:30-Victor Radley Reaction 20:00-Transfer Window 22:00-Luke Brooks injury 27:00-Team to Win! 33:30-TV Rights Deal 42:00-Peter V’landys See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Family kick things off with an online sex store mishap and a bizarre bird of paradise tangent before diving into Matty's PNG trip and a deep dive on Storm Old Boys. Throw in Byron Bay Origin chaos, a House of the Dragon chat, Dream Team picks and NRL tips, and you've got peak Family Pod energy. Garlos Pie Competition: https://garlospies.com.au/championship/ MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Pod Start 3:00-Invention 9:00-Matty to PNG! 13:00-Storm Old Boys 22:00-Jack Cobber Johns 24:00-Byron Bay & Origin 31:00-Recipe of the Week 36:00-House of the Dragon 38:00-Dream Team 41:00-NRL Tips 47:00-Pie Eating Challenge! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Part 2 | A classic Footy Show prank story before diving back into the twin dynamic and life in Clubland. From there it's a trip down memory lane — Ben Barba's 2012, Jimmy Graham, the 2014 Grand Final and a Greg Inglis tangent — before he breaks down his time at the Dragons, Sharks and Roosters. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Part 1 | Josh Morris joins the boys, covering his South Coast roots and major moments during his incredible career. Talk turns to navigating the media world post-footy, his read on State of Origin, and the twin dynamic with brother Brett. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Family are back together with Matty returning from Washington, and the pod is packed with big topics — Fight Night, Jai Opetaia, and plenty of Trbojevic Time. There's chaos in the lifestyle segments with moving house, Chain Letters, and Trish's Game making a return. Plus, the crew launches a mission to make a lock forward the most followed player in the NRL — and they need your help to make it happen. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Matty’s Back From Washington 9:30-Fight Night 14:00-Knicks Win 15:00-Jai Opetaia 19:00-Moving House 21:00-Titans Time 23:00-Storm Old Boys Day 25:00-Trbojevic Time 27:00-Tim Paynes Social Media 32:30-Chain Letter 34:00-Trish’s Game 42:00-Recipe of the Week 44:00-Taukin Powder 47:00-NRL Tips See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy…

Game 2 reaction is here — Cooper and Matty break down a wild Origin 2 thriller, from QLD's tactics to NSW's right-edge defensive nightmare. Then Selwyn Cobbo's finger-tip magic steals the show as the moment of the match. Plus: Where's Api?, Cameron Murray's impact, and the "if we're gonna beat em" blueprint for Game 3. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matty's been living it up in Washington DC — ringside stories, hanging with Volk, and taking in UFC at the White House. Back home it's all Origin — the big calls, the bolters, and Cam Murray's last-minute push into the starting side. Game II is locked and loaded. Who wins? We break it all down. MERCH LINK HERE: https://3b1e7f.myshopify.com/ Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-UFC at the White House 17:00-Origin Game II Preview 35:00-Game II Tips See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Producer Gav makes his triumphant return to the pod, and relive the day the episode died. Matty & Volk have some messages to share from Washington, Plus, Jack's Weekend with Foz & Wayne, the boys give their NRL tips, and it all wraps up with a heartfelt moment from Gav. Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Producer Gav is Back! 4:30-Intro Question 13:00-Matty Messages 16:00-The Day The Episode Died 22:00-The Continuous Call Team 23:00-Your Week 29:00-Wayne, Jack & Foz 43:00-Corey Eats 45:30-Influenza 55:00-NRL Tips 1:01:00-Kane Evans 1:06:00-VOLK & MATTY See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Part 2! Reg Reagan, Greg Bird, and the Cam Murray starter debate all get a run. Wayne Bennett leaps across a room, and the genuine connection in Clubland chat gives insight into NRL Club Culture. Will Forte, The White House, and Party Hardy to close — what a way to finish. Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Willie Mason joins Cooper & Matty to relive the Bulldogs, Hunter Mariners, and the hard men he played alongside. The big man on intensity, sledging, and clubland life with stories on O'Meley, Asatasi and more. Plus Jonny Wilkinson, French rugby, and golf to kick things off. Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jack sits down with a local legend to unpack Horse racing,From the origins of Gerringong to the rise of Cooper's Golden Eagles. Plus the Mark Hughes Foundation, Kentucky Fried Foz, and Trish makes a late escape. Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Jibber 7:00-Kentucky Fried Foz 12:00-Historical Dictator 17:00-Gerringong 25:00-Mark Hughes Foundation 28:00-Golden Eagles 36:00-Tips See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Steve 'Blocker' Roach is one of Rugby League's true characters — a champion Tiger, a State of Origin warrior, and a fan favourite on The Footy Show couch. Blocker sits down for a brilliant yarn covering his playing days, some classic dressing room stories, and the moments that had Australia in stitches every Thursday night. Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Steven ‘Blocka’ Roach 4:00-Origin Experience 9:30-Fighting in Rugby League 15:00-Tallis Story 17:00-Teammates & Coaches 23:00-Balmain Mid 80’s 32:00-1989 GF 42:00-Retirement 46:00-The Footy Show 53:00-Lone Survivor See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cooper hits the road to Gerringong on a mission to scout new Backfencers, while Matt returns from the chaos of Beef Week with stories to tell. Jack receives a surprise bouquet of flowers, raising more questions than answers. And one family member is absolutely convinced the world is black and white — the debate is very much alive. Subscribe, Watch, and Follow Catch the full episode on YouTube and stay updated by following us on social media: Linktree: Backstage with Cooper & Matty Contact Us For any enquiries, email us at: contact@johnsmedia.com.au 0:00-Beatles 6:00-Beef Week 9:00-Search For Backfencers 14:00-Flowers 20:00-Jnr Presentation 24:00-Dream Team 31:00-Out Of Context 35:00-Titans Vegas 37:00-Skin Magazines 49:00-NRL Tips See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.