In this intimate and inspiring episode, we sit down with Phaidra Knight — trailblazing rugby player, World Rugby Hall of Famer, attorney, coach, and entrepreneur — for a raw and personal conversation about her extraordinary life and career. From growing up in rural Georgia to becoming one of the most respected figures in international rugby, Phaidra shares the defining moments, struggles, and triumphs that shaped her path. Discover how she broke barriers in a male-dominated sport, her transition from athlete to advocate, and the deep sense of resilience, identity, and empowerment that fuels her mission today. This episode dives into the mental and emotional side of sport — exploring what it truly means to lead with strength, authenticity, and compassion on and off the field. Perfect for sports lovers, changemakers, and dreamers, this conversation is a powerful reminder that greatness isn’t just about victory — it’s about courage, purpose, and staying true to who you are.

🎧 Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Google Podcasts to hear the full story behind one of rugby’s most influential voices.

Tags / Keywords:
Phaidra Knight, rugby podcast, women in sports, female athletes, rugby union, sports leadership, athlete interviews, women’s empowerment, breaking barriers, resilience, mindset, athlete stories, sports equality, diversity in sports, LGBTQ athletes, motivational podcast, inspirational women, athlete to entrepreneur, personal growth, mental toughness, AART podcast

This week’s guest on the season finale is not only a USA rugby legend but a legend around the world. She has made three appearances in the Rugby World Cup and was selected as the top player in the world in her position in 2002 and 2006. In 2010, she was named the U.S. Rugby Player of the Decade. In November 2017, she was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame. Currently she has her own clothing line called the PSK collective, which Naya is an ambassador for and is a commentator on the world rugby sevens series so you've probably heard her voice before. She has paved the way for women in rugby and is constantly taking on new projects, most recently MMA. Phaindra shares her passions with us and what's on her bucket list, some of which may surprise you...or not... if you know how invincible this woman is.

Hosts: Naya Tapper & Ilona Maher
Recorded: December 7, 2021

For more information, links and resources and hundreds more conversations from the world of women’s sport including articles, blogs, videos and podcasts visit wispsports.com. WiSP Sports is the World’s First and Only Podcast Network for Women’s Sport with more than 60 hosts, 1500+ episodes across 50 shows and over 7 million downloads. We are ranked in the top 2% of more than 2.71 million podcasts worldwide. WiSP Sports is on all major podcast players. Follow WiSP Sports on social media @WiSPsports. Contact us at info@wispsports.com.

Phaidra Knight: Breaking Barriers in Rugby and Beyond — A Journey of Power, Purpose & Perseverance