In this episode of Beyond the Hustle, I sit down with Dr. Phil Borell – educator, researcher, rugby league advocate, and proud tāne Māori.
We unpack his journey growing up in Ōtautahi, navigating identity as a young Māori boy, being kicked out of high school, and the mentors who helped shape his future. Now a respected academic, Phil shares his groundbreaking research on the lived experiences of Māori and Pasifika athletes in professional rugby league – including the heartbreaking stories behind youth suicides, identity struggles, and the role of whānau in sport.
You’ll hear real kōrero about:
Being raised by a solo mum and losing his dad at a young age
How te ao Māori saved him
The pressures of professional sport
His PhD research and the Te Waka Kōtihi model
Why whānau support is everything for our tamariki in elite pathways
Whether you’re a parent, coach, educator or just someone who cares about our rangatahi, this one will hit home.
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