The Unapologetic Willie Mason: From Rugby League Enforcer to Insightful Mentor

Willie Mason has observed the NRL for over 20 years as a junior player, NRL star, veteran, commentator and now as a coach.

The 43-year-old's keen eye is now paying dividends as as a pathways coach for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and a co-host one of rugby league's most popular podcasts on the 'Levels Network'.

We discussed various topics, including the 2024 season launch of the NRL in Vegas, his childhood, the impact of his father's death, the highs and lows of his career, relationships with Wayne Bennett and Phil Gould, the success of his new podcast with Justin Horo, how he guides players today as a coach and much more.

Timestamps:
00:00 Promo
01:11 Last time Mark & Willie saw each other
02:20 Grand Finals, Origin & Playing for Australia
07:00 Psychology & Childhood
10:43 Time at Bulldogs
19:40 Gus Gould
24:00 Wayne Bennet
27:01 How the NRL evolves
29:01 The Podcast Game
32:00 Mentoring & Coaching The Next Gen
42:01 Toughest Opponents & Favourite players
43:58 WIllie's Podcast
44:40 NRL Launch in Vegas
50:00 What the NRL should do for ex players