S2E17: Denis Betts - Ego, Regret & Life Beyond Rugby

Denis Betts is a rugby league legend.

But behind the trophies and the Great Britain caps lies a story about ego, endings, and learning what really matters.

In this raw and revealing conversation, Denis and I dive into:

• Why he chose to let go of anger in his mid-twenties
• The clash of egos and the regret of stepping away too soon
• The role of family and the influence of strong women in his life
• What coaching Wigan Women has taught him about leadership
• Why joy and purpose matter more than medals

This is Denis Betts like you’ve never heard him before.

SHOW NOTES

The Making of a Legend

• Dennis’s rise at Wigan and Great Britain
• What success looked like in a golden era of rugby league

Family, Joy & Simplicity

• Why his happiest moments weren’t always on the pitch
• Grass, sun, family dinners — finding joy in the small things

Letting Go of Anger

• The moment he decided anger wasn’t serving him anymore
• Playing a violent sport without carrying violence inside

Ego, Endings & Regret

• The clashing egos that led to his retirement
• The regret of stepping away too soon
• Lessons from endings and identity beyond sport

Strong Women & Leadership

• Raising three daughters and how it shaped him
• Coaching Wigan Warriors Women
• What leadership really means when you adapt to the people in front of you