Since 1980, State of Origin rugby league has been a treasure trove of remarkable stories.
They involve mateship, resilience, winning against the odds. Pain, refusal to quit. Underdogs triumphing in the face of doubt. The most romantic elements of sport.
Stories of Origin features Origin greats Allan Langer, Brad Fittler, Billy Slater, Paul Vautin, Wally Lewis, Phil Gould, Andrew Johns, Cameron Smith, Jonathan Thurston, Darren Lockyer, Paul Gallen, Ricky Stuart, Ben Ikin, Chris Close and many more. The podcast series taps into their experiences and unwraps new angles on their Origin careers.
You’ll hear some classic yarns from on the field and inside the dressing sheds. It is compulsory listening for any sports fan.
A Wide World of Sports and 9Podcasts production.
In the final episode of Stories of Origin series five, host Mathew Thompson sits down with the legendary Greg Inglis to discuss his standout 2008 State of Origin campaign. Known for his power and intimidation, "GI" recalls how he overcame a difficult start to the series to secure a glorious victory in Queensland’s golden era of dominance.
Despite his on-field success, Greg reflects on the personal challenges he faced with his mental health. Now, as a fit and healthy family man, he uses his powerful profile to support indigenous people who are experiencing the same issues. His commitment to the Goanna Academy is making a significant impact, a legacy that extends well beyond his on-field achievements, especially as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week.
This episode concludes series five of Stories of Origin, winner of the Best Sports Podcast at the annual Australian Audio Awards.
Host: Mathew Thompson
Executive Producer: Matty White
Thanks to TAB for supporting Stories of Origin Season 5.
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21 Jun 2026
Brad Fittler's Favourite Origin | The Fairytale Farewell of 2004
No one has had a greater influence on New South Wales rugby league than Brad Fittler.
A Blues legend, Freddy played a record 31 State of Origin matches for NSW before later coaching his state on 18 occasions. But the Origin story closest to his heart came in 2004, when Phil Gould convinced him to return from representative retirement for one final campaign.
It wasn't all smooth sailing. The comeback didn't start as planned, but it ended with one of the most memorable fairytale finishes in Origin history.
In this episode of Stories of Origin, Brad Fittler relives the 2004 series, his final season in the Sky Blue jersey, the unforgettable decider, and the perfect send-off alongside Phil Gould.
A farewell that remains one of the great moments in Origin history.
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7 Jun 2026
Cameron Smith's Favourite Origin: Against All Odds
No player has worn the Queensland jersey more times than Cameron Smith.
Across 42 State of Origin appearances, Smith became the ultimate competitor, captain and match-winner, helping lead the Maroons through one of the most dominant eras in rugby league history.
But when asked to choose his favourite Origin, Smith doesn't go back to the beginning. He picks 2017.
It was a series that seemed destined for New South Wales after a crushing Game One victory in Brisbane against a Queensland side missing Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk and Johnathan Thurston.
Then came Thurston's unforgettable sideline conversion in Sydney despite a shattered shoulder. And finally, a decider in Brisbane that would become Smith's last ever game for Queensland.
In this episode of Stories of Origin, Cameron Smith relives the highs, the pressure, the leadership challenges and the moments that made the 2017 series his most memorable Origin campaign.
From adversity to triumph, this is the story of one of Queensland's greatest ever victories, told by the man who led it. Thanks to TAB
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Who has been a guest on Stories of Origin
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Bradman Best
Ben Hunt
Phil Gould
Mark Geyer
Andrew Johns
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
4.8 / 5
195 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 45 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
64
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
67
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Guest appearances
Books guests
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