Kalyn Ponga, superstar fullback at the Newcastle Knights.

2023 Dally M Medalist, a sporting prodigy who, at the age of 15 was being head hunted by six clubs across three different sports.

That story is the one most rugby league fans have heard of. This isn’t that story.

Kalyn Ponga, the proud Maori man, the big brother, the loyal friend the proud son

That’s who you’ll hear from in this episode.

Sitting in his lounge room, accompanied by his beloved Aussie Shepard, Sadie.

With an open heart, generosity and vulnerability, Kalyn tells me his story.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Awabakal people, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

Kalyn Ponga, superstar fullback at the Newcastle Knights.
2023 Dally M Medalist, a sporting prodigy who, at the age of 15 was being head hunted by six clubs across three different sports.
That story is the one most rugby league fans have heard of. This isn’t that story.
Kalyn Ponga, the proud Maori man, the big brother, the loyal friend the proud son
That’s who you’ll hear from in this episode.
Sitting in his lounge room, accompanied by his beloved Aussie Shepard, Sadie.
With an open heart, generosity and vulnerability, Kalyn tells me his story.
This episode was recorded on the lands of the Awabakal people, we pay our respects to their elders past and present and acknowledge their continued connection to that country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

Marlee and Me is a podcast that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of your favorite athletes, showcasing them in a way you’ve never seen before.

In candid and heartfelt conversations, Marlee Silva delves into the personal stories of rugby league’s biggest names, focusing on who they are as individuals rather than their on-field achievements.

Through themes of family, culture, and identity, she uncovers the experiences and lessons from their upbringing that shaped them into champions. Beyond the celebrations and victories, the podcast reveals what truly matters most to these athletes.

Marlee and Me is a podcast that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of your favorite athletes, showcasing them in a way you’ve never seen before.
In candid and heartfelt conversations, Marlee Silva delves into the personal stories of rugby league’s biggest names, focusing on who they are as individuals rather than their on-field achievements.
Through themes of family, culture, and identity, she uncovers the experiences and lessons from their upbringing that shaped them into champions. Beyond the celebrations and victories, the podcast reveals what truly matters most to these athletes.

Marlee and Me

Kalyn Ponga

At just 26 years old, Nathan Cleary already boasts three premiership titles, state and national representation, and is widely regarded as one of the best in the game.

In this final episode of Marlee and Me Season 1, Nathan welcomes us into his childhood home, which he purchased from his parents a few years ago.

Growing up with a father who was an NRL coach and quickly catching the attention of fans, Nathan has been in the spotlight since his teenage years. Surprisingly, he opens up more than expected in this conversation, offering a rare, candid glimpse into his life.

Throughout this podcast series, it has become clear that family plays a central role in shaping the greats, and Nathan is no exception. The lessons from his parents and the deep love and responsibility he feels for his siblings provide insight into his drive to succeed.

You will also hear about the unexpected emotions Nathan experienced during his recent hamstring injury and the pressures of having the country invested in his relationship with Mary Fowler.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Dharug people.

At just 26 years old, Nathan Cleary already boasts three premiership titles, state and national representation, and is widely regarded as one of the best in the game.
In this final episode of Marlee and Me Season 1, Nathan welcomes us into his childhood home, which he purchased from his parents a few years ago.
Growing up with a father who was an NRL coach and quickly catching the attention of fans, Nathan has been in the spotlight since his teenage years. Surprisingly, he opens up more than expected in this conversation, offering a rare, candid glimpse into his life.
Throughout this podcast series, it has become clear that family plays a central role in shaping the greats, and Nathan is no exception. The lessons from his parents and the deep love and responsibility he feels for his siblings provide insight into his drive to succeed.
You will also hear about the unexpected emotions Nathan experienced during his recent hamstring injury and the pressures of having the country invested in his relationship with Mary Fowler.
This episode was recorded on the lands of the Dharug people.

Nathan Cleary joins Marlee and Me

At just 26 years old, Nathan Cleary already boasts three premiership titles, state and national representation, and is widely regarded as one of the best in the game.
In this final episode of Marlee and Me Season 1, Nathan welcomes us into his childhood home, which he purchased from his parents a few years ago.
Growing up with a father who was an NRL coach and quickly catching the attention of fans, Nathan has been in the spotlight since his teenage years. Surprisingly, he opens up more than expected in this conversation, offering a rare, candid glimpse into his life.
Throughout this podcast series, it has become clear that family plays a central role in shaping the greats, and Nathan is no exception. The lessons from his parents and the deep love and responsibility he feels for his siblings provide insight into his drive to succeed.
You will also hear about the unexpected emotions Nathan experienced during his recent hamstring injury and the pressures of having the country invested in his relationship with Mary Fowler.
This episode was recorded on the lands of the Dharug people.

Nathan Cleary

Connor Watson, Roosters and Blues star, co-founded the nonprofit Cultural Choice Association, which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children by helping them access mental health resources.

The organisation gained attention during the NRL’s Indigenous round with football boots featuring Aboriginal art. Over the years, Cultural Choice Association has made a significant impact on the younger generation, with Watson being recognised for his dedication both on and off the field.

This episode was recorded on the lands of the Gadigal people.

Connor Watson, Roosters and Blues star, co-founded the nonprofit Cultural Choice Association, which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children by helping them access mental health resources.
The organisation gained attention during the NRL’s Indigenous round with football boots featuring Aboriginal art. Over the years, Cultural Choice Association has made a significant impact on the younger generation, with Watson being recognised for his dedication both on and off the field.
This episode was recorded on the lands of the Gadigal people.

Kalyn Ponga

Marlee and Me

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