Beyond the Scrum: Steven Kitshoff on Business, Investing & Life After Rugby

Planning for Life After Rugby: A Conversation with Steven Kitshoff

South Africans are generally rugby-mad, and they know that professional rugby careers aren't as long as most. This means financial planning and thinking about post-retirement ventures are important for an athlete's long-term prospects. In this episode of the Rands & Sense podcast, we sit down with Steven Kitshoff, Springboks legend, 2x World Cup winner, and Bomb Squad Beer co-founder to talk about his journey both on and off the field.

From living in France and Wales, to navigating international contracts and building a business while still playing, Steven shares his thinking on financial security, career transitions and life after rugby. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or just interested in smart financial planning, you'll find something of interest here.

Suffering what turned out to be a career-ending injury, Steven had no option but to prepare for retirement early. As part of his planning, he did a free cost comparison with 10X on his investments, which is an important step in ensuring he's getting the best returns he can, and not paying high fees in the process.

Did you know that a 0.5% difference in fees can mean 20% less money in retirement? Check out our article on retirement investment fee maths, and make sure you get the retirement you deserve.

Talking points

1:20 - 4:51 | What was it like playing overseas, and how did it shape your perspective on investments, retirement, and life after rugby?

5:04 - 9:15 | You had a relatively short window to secure your financial future. When did you start thinking seriously about long-term financial security?

9:41 - 11:50 | What has been the biggest surprise about life after rugby? Has retirement been easier or harder than you expected?

12:02 - 15:28 | How did Bomb Squad Beer come about, and what’s been your biggest lesson in business so far?

22:47 - 24:41 | What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young athletes about planning for life after sport?

Quickfire question round (26:32 - 28:53)

• One word to describe retirement?
• Favorite business or investing book/resource?
• What’s your golf handicap?
• Who in rugby gave him the best life advice?

Audience questions (28:53 - 35:43)

• What is the best way to get under your opponent’s skin in a scrum?
• Do players have sufficient time to study or prepare for a future career while playing?
• If he didn’t make it as a professional rugby player, what would he have done?

Closing Thoughts (35:43 - 37:26)

• What’s next for Steven in the next year?
• Where can people follow his journey?
• Final message for young athletes or anyone going through a major life transition?

Steven's journey shows everyone the importance of taking a proactive approach to life and finances. All of that starts with a clear-eyed review of your financial position. Steven had to assess his investments and make strategic decisions early on to secure his future, which is exactly what you should be doing. You can start by using our Retirement Annuity Calculator to see if you're on track for your retirement.