Show overview
Mindset For Sport has been publishing since 2022, and across the 4 years since has built a catalogue of 112 episodes. That works out to roughly 95 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a fortnightly cadence, with the show now in its 4th season.
Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 48 min and 56 min — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. None of the episodes are flagged explicit by the publisher. It is catalogued as a EN-language Sports show.
There hasn’t been a new episode in the last ninety days; the most recent episode landed 6 months ago. The busiest year was 2024, with 42 episodes published. Published by Dr Christie Scanlon.
From the publisher
Inside the Minds of High Performers in Sport Follow to learn more.
Latest Episodes
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S3 Ep 107Lukas Jutkiewicz Interview | Birmingham City, Manager Changes & Striker Mindset
Subscribe to my newsletter 👉 https://www.mindsetforsport.com/newsletterFormer Birmingham City striker Lukas Jutkiewicz joins the Mindset For Sport Podcast to reflect on his football career, life after retirement, and his new role at Birmingham City as a first-team positional lead scout. In this interview, Lukas discusses the mentality required to succeed in professional football, the psychological pressures of playing as a striker, and why resilience and mindset are just as important as talent at the top level of the game.Jutkiewicz also shares stories from his career at Swindon Town, Everton, Motherwell, Burnley, and Birmingham City, where he became a fan favourite after more than 300 appearances for the Blues. The conversation explores the challenges Birmingham City faced during periods of managerial change, the influence of managers like Gary Rowett and Gary Monk, playing with elite teammates, and the excitement surrounding the club’s new ownership and future ambitions.Let’s connect! 🤝🔗 LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/christiescanlon/📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/christiescanlonofficial/⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Coming Up(00:53) Retirement & New Role at Birmingham City(03:30) Early Life, Family & Heritage(05:20) Leaving Home to Join Everton F.C.(14:13) Playing in Scotland with Motherwell F.C.(22:58) Stepping Up: The Move into Premier League Football(25:43) The Move to Birmingham City(30:20) Managers & Challenges at Birmingham(34:30) Finding Form as a Striker(40:06) Playing with Jude Bellingham & His Favourite Goal(45:40) Advice for Aspiring Footballers(47:15) Tom Wagner & the New American Ownership at Birmingham(51:21) Quick Fire Questions

S4 Ep 106Do Spending Rules Make the Premier League Less Fair? - Adam Davis
Subscribe to my newsletter 👉https://www.mindsetforsport.com/newsletter In this episode, Adam Davis breaks down Profit & Sustainability Rules (PSR) and Financial Fair Play in plain terms… explaining how they work, why they were introduced, and who really benefits. The conversation looks at whether spending limits keep clubs safe or whether they quietly help the biggest teams stay on top while others struggle to catch up.Using real examples and recent controversies, this discussion explores what these rules mean for fans, clubs, and the future of the game. It’s an honest, accessible look at one of the biggest issues in modern football: competitive balance, financial power, and whether the system is fair. If you care about where the Premier League is heading, this episode will give you plenty to think about 👍⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Opening(00:32) Issues Surrounding Multi-Club Ownership(06:44) Transparency of Ownership with Supporters(11:08) Transfer Window Spending(21:09) Competitive Balance in the Premier League(27:10) The Leicester City Case Study(35:10) Future Directions in Football

S3 Ep 108Chris Billam-Smith on The BIG Boxing Fights at Cruiserweight
Subscribe to my newsletter 👉 https://www.mindsetforsport.com/newsletterChris Billam-Smith is a British cruiserweight boxer, former WBO world champion, and devoted father, celebrated for his disciplined training and family-focused approach. Rising through the professional ranks, he captured the vacant WBO Cruiserweight title by defeating the previously undefeated Lawrence Okolie and went on to establish himself among boxing’s elite.In this interview we explore what life is really like behind the gloves; the dressing room psychology, the loneliness of long camps, and why true strength comes from more than just training. Chris talks openly about anxiety, the toll of time away from home, and the importance of staying connected to something bigger than boxing.⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Introduction(00:46) Origins: How Boxing Began for Him(09:31) Journey to Becoming a Champion(12:15) Earning the “Gentleman” Nickname(14:04) Competing at the Highest Level of Boxing(20:03) Reassessing the Boxing Process(24:00) Becoming WBO Cruiserweight Champion and Finding Purpose in Sport(34:46) The State of Boxing Today(39:40) Mental Focus and Facing Brandon Glanton(44:11) Balancing Fandom and Focus in Competition(48:06) Future Challenges and the Politics of Boxing

S3 Ep 106I Coached 1,000 Athletes, This DESTROYS Their Performance
Work with me 👉 https://www.mindsetforsport.com/ This video reveals how fear and overthinking make even top athletes fall short when the pressure hits. Learn to build mental toughness, use visualization and self-talk, and turn fear into focus. Train your mind like your body and unlock your full potential on game day. Discover proven mindset tools, the science behind confidence and composure, and how to stay calm and focused when it matters most.⏰ Timecodes ⏰00:00 Exploring Emotions01:57 Understanding Fear and Anxiety03:06 Managing Overthinking04:25 Building Mental Toughness06:05 Practical Strategies for Growth08:34 Putting Strategies into Action

S3 Ep 106The EXACT System To Beat Performance Anxiety in Sport
Work with me 👉 https://www.mindsetforsport.com/Performance anxiety happens to everyone whether you are an athlete a student or a professional. This conversation teaches you how to turn nerves into energy and stay focused on what truly matters using simple breathing and self talk to stay calm. Learn how to face big moments with confidence and turn fear into fuel.⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Feeling Performance Anxiety(01:17) Understanding Performance Anxiety(03:50) Why It Happens(05:12) The Cycle of Anxiety and Performance(06:22) Strategies to Overcome Anxiety(09:22) Using Positive Self Talk(11:08) Staying Grounded in the Moment(13:00) Finding Your Flow State (14:17) Building Your Game Plan for Growth

S3 Ep 105DO THIS To Get Ahead Of 99% Of Athletes - Marc Pugh
Work with me 👉 https://www.mindsetforsport.com/In this inspiring interview former Premier League footballer Marc Pugh shares his journey from non-league football to the top level. He talks about setbacks and resilience and how mindset and nutrition helped him succeed. Marc also explains life after football and his mission to teach others about performance and wellbeing. ⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Introduction(00:44) Developing a Winning Mentality(02:03) Early Influences and Overcoming Doubt(04:35) Staying Hungry and Avoiding Complacency(07:00) How Experience Shaped Marc’s Growth(11:45) Joining AFC Bournemouth(14:08) Building a Winning Culture at Bournemouth(18:24) Eddie Howe’s Influence and Emotional Control(21:09) Chasing the Premier League Dream(24:24) Achieving the Premier League Goal(29:48) Life and Standards in the Premier League(31:22) Quick-Fire Round(36:48) Leaving Bournemouth During COVID(42:35) How Nutrition Transformed Marc’s Performance(46:00) Clean Eating for Mental Clarity(48:01) Learning About Nutrition(50:20) Marc’s Favourite Cheat Meal(51:50) Eating Schedule and Final Thoughts

S3 Ep 104Salford Boxing LEGEND Jamie Moore Tells His Story
🎙️ Jamie Moore: From Fighter to MentorIn this powerful and personal interview, former British Middleweight Champion and renowned trainer Jamie Moore opens up about his journey through the highs and lows of boxing - from his early amateur days in Salford to legendary nights under the lights as a professional.Jamie reflects on the brutal reality of making weight, the lessons learned from painful defeats, and how working with legendary coach Oliver Harrison transformed his fighting style. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from his iconic fight with Matthew Macklin, controversial judging decisions in boxing, and his life after retirement.Now a respected coach and community leader, Jamie discusses founding his Salford amateur boxing gym and helping young people find discipline, purpose, and belonging through the sport he loves.🥊 Jamie's Gym:Walkden Amateur Boxing Club Ellesmere Shopping Centre, Bolton Road, Walkden, M28 3ZHLVisit Maverick Stars Foundation📰 Subscribe to My Newsletter:www.mindsetforsport.com/newsletter⚡️ Connect with Me:InstagramLinkedInTikTok⏰ Episode Timecodes:(00:00) Countdown to Fight Night(00:43) The Reality of Making Weight(05:32) Preparing Mentally for the Big Stage(09:34) Growing Up and Boxing in Salford(13:12) From Amateur Days to the Pro Ranks(19:49) Chasing the Dream - Becoming British Champion(28:18) Lessons Learned at the Elite Level(37:08) The Fight with Matthew Macklin(41:11) Controversial Decisions in Boxing(44:33) Life After the Ring – Dealing with Retirement(51:34) What’s Next for Jamie Moore?

S2 Ep 103Beth Allen (Tweddle) on London 2012, ELITE Mindset and Life After Gymnastics
In this conversation, Beth Tweddle shares her journey from being a competitive gymnast to transitioning into everyday life after retirement. She discusses the importance of finding new passions, the role of family support, and the pressures of competing at high levels, including her experiences at the Olympics. Beth reflects on the evolution of gymnastics, the impact of injuries, and the significance of healthy competition. She emphasises the importance of inspiring the next generation and leaving a legacy of belief and determination.📰 Subscribe to my newsletter⚡️CONNECT WITH ME:INSTAGRAMLINKEDINTIKTOK⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Transitioning from Athlete to Everyday Life(03:05) Finding New Passions and Purpose(06:41) The Role of Family Support in Athletic Success(08:30) The Journey to Competitive Gymnastics(12:41) Pressure and Preparation for Major Competitions(17:04) The Impact of Injuries on an Athlete's Journey(20:27) Experiencing the London 2012 Olympics(24:35) Coping with Injury and Mental Resilience(30:02) The Importance of Focus and Control(33:21) Reflecting on Competition and Rivalry(38:11) Receiving Recognition and Its Impact(42:39) Inspiring the Next Generation(44:33) Legacy and Belief in Self

S2 Ep 102How to Lead in Football: A MASTERCLASS with Chris Ramsey
In this powerful episode, we sit down with former QPR Technical Director and England U20s coach Chris Ramsey to explore a life shaped by football, resilience, and personal growth. From his early days growing up in the Windrush generation, to leaving home at 16 and navigating the unforgiving world of professional football, Chris shares raw and honest reflections on the lessons he’s learned through success, setbacks, and reinvention. We delve into the pressure of elite sport, the importance of education, and how discipline and identity shaped his coaching philosophy and career.Chris opens up about the emotional impact of losing his mother, how football helped him heal, and why mental health and mentorship must be central to the game’s future. Whether you’re a young player, coach, educator, or just passionate about personal development, this conversation offers deep insight into the mindset it takes to overcome, adapt, and lead in high-performance environments. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share—this is one story you’ll want to pass on.📰 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.mindsetforsport.com/newsletter⚡️CONNECT WITH ME:INSTAGRAMLINKEDINTIKTOK⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Stepping Away from the Game(01:10) The Start of Chris's Football Journey(05:50) Leaving Home: The Challenges of Growing Up in Football(11:11) Success at Brighton & the FA Cup Final(17:03) Chris's Path to Becoming a Professional Coach(28:05) Insights From The FA(33:59) How the FA Shaped Modern Football(40:21) Life at Tottenham Hotspur(44:52) Leading at QPR - The Challenges and Triumphs(52:18) Breaking Barriers - Ethnic Coaches in UK Football(57:30) Closing Thoughts

S2 Ep 101Owen Coyle Exclusive: What It’s REALLY Like Growing Up in Football
In this exclusive interview with Owen Coyle, we dive deep into what it’s like growing up in football, navigating the ups and downs of the sport, and transitioning from a player’s son to a respected coach. Owen shares personal stories about his upbringing in football, the challenges he faced as a young person in the game, and how his journey shaped his approach to coaching.He discusses his current role at Nottingham Forest, working with the first team, academy players, and the women’s team, and his thoughts on the crucial role of the loan system in player development. Owen also reflects on his family’s connection to football, the pressures and public scrutiny of being the son of a football manager, and the emotional toll that comes with it.Owen’s authenticity, approach to player development, and coaching philosophy offer a unique perspective on the sport. His take on football psychology and handling external pressures will inspire those looking to make a difference in the football world.📰 Subscribe to my newsletter⚡️CONNECT WITH ME:INSTAGRAMLINKEDINTIKTOK⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Behind the Scenes at Nottingham Forest(03:00) The Realities of the Football Loan System(10:34) Owen Coyle: Inspired by My Father’s Passion(15:34) When Coyle Left Burnley for Bolton(20:56) The Challenge of Going It Alone in Sport(26:20) Coping with Social Media Abuse in Football(29:00) The Rise of Scottish Coaches(37:45) Memorable Moments and Lessons(42:42) What Football Has Taught Owen About Life(48:42) Where Is Football Headed Next?(52:10) Owen’s Vision and Goals for the Future

S2 Ep 101The #1 Confidence Trick Used by ELITE Athletes (You Can Do It Too!) - Masterclass Series
Confidence isn’t just talent; it’s built through mindset, preparation, and habits.Whether you're an athlete, coach, or looking to boost mental resilience, these proven strategies will help you perform under pressure.🔑 What You'll Learn:✅ Why confidence fluctuates & how to stabilize it✅ The 2Rs: Repetition & Reflection for belief reinforcement✅ The power of visualization in success✅ Managing external validation & cultivating self-belief✅ Mastering positive self-talk for long-term confidence⚡️ CONNECT WITH ME:📸 Instagram 💼 LinkedIn 🎵 TikTok⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Welcome & Overview(00:39) What Confidence Really Means(03:50) Harnessing Visualization for Confidence(09:15) The Power of Positive Self-Talk(16:18) Building Confidence Through Self-Reflection(20:14) Evaluating & Understanding Yourself

S2 Ep 100How To Create A WORLD CLASS Youth Academy - Mike Scott
In this insightful interview, Mike Scott, a leading expert in youth football development, shares his incredible journey in building world-class football academies.With over 25 years in the industry, Mike reflects on his time at West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City, revealing:The importance of resilience in young athletesWhy relationship-building is crucial in player developmentHow a strong mindset shapes future professionals📌 Make sure to FOLLOW & RATE the show!📰 Subscribe to my newsletter: JOIN NOW⚡ CONNECT WITH ME:Instagram: @christiescanlonofficialLinkedIn: Christie ScanlonTikTok: @christiescanlonofficialTime Stamps – Find What Interests You:(00:00) Episode Introduction(00:54) Transforming Birmingham City's Future(05:00) The Changing Landscape of Academy Football(06:22) Youth Development at West Bromwich Albion(13:10) How Elite Talent is Nurtured(18:17) The Realities of Becoming a Professional Footballer(22:25) Inside an FA Youth Cup Journey(27:29) Key Traits of a Great Football Coach(30:30) The Toughest Challenges in Coaching(35:38) Planning for Life After Football(38:04) Myths About Becoming a Pro(42:34) The Personal Sacrifices of a Coach(49:10) Final Reflections: Growth as a Head of Coaching

S2 Ep 99The Forces Behind Norwich City's Downfall - Timm Klose
In this exclusive interview, former Norwich City and Swiss international Tim Klose shares his journey from professional football to coaching and scouting. He opens up about the challenges of transitioning out of the game, his new role at Basel, and why he chose to earn his coaching badges in England. Klose also reflects on the highs and lows of his career, the importance of mental resilience, and how key influences shaped his development both on and off the pitch.Offering valuable advice for young players, Klose discusses the significance of mindset, discipline, and surrounding yourself with the right people. He also dives into the realities of football beyond the pitch, highlighting the struggles athletes face when their playing days come to an end. A must-watch for anyone interested in football, coaching, and personal growth.📢 Subscribe to my newsletter:Subscribe Here⚡️CONNECT WITH ME:Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Retiring from Professional Football(01:44) Differences Between Swiss and UK Football(02:55) Love and Connection with FC Basel(04:38) Early Career Opportunities and Breakthroughs(09:01) The Toughest Challenges in Football(10:49) Moving to Wolfsburg: A New Chapter(15:13) Key Lessons from the Bundesliga(16:20) Transition to Norwich City(17:44) Experiences in the Premier League(19:33) Mindset and Mentality at the Elite Level(22:27) Superstitions and Religious Beliefs in Football(28:22) Influence of Daniel Farke(32:20) Close Friendships at Norwich City(34:20) Relationship with Norwich Fans(36:45) Representing Switzerland on the International Stage(40:06) The Future of Swiss Football(45:00) Final Reflections

S2 Ep 98Rudy Gestede - A Journey Through Blackburn, Aston Villa, and Beyond
Rudy Gestede opens up about his football journey, sharing the highs and lows of his career. From adapting to English football to playing at the highest level, he discusses his biggest regret in football, the impact of ownership issues on team performance, and his experiences transitioning between clubs like Cardiff, Blackburn, and Villa. He also shares a funny story about learning English with Scottish teammates and gives his thoughts on how the striker's role has evolved in the modern game. Gestede reflects on key moments in his career, including missing a crucial penalty at Wembley, dealing with injuries, and overcoming adversity to succeed. He offers honest insights into the challenges of professional football and what it takes to perform at the highest level.📰 Subscribe to my newsletter: Mindset For Sport Newsletter⚡️ CONNECT WITH ME:INSTAGRAM: @christiescanlonofficialLINKEDIN: Christie ScanlonTIKTOK: @christiescanlonofficial⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Introduction to the Episode(01:04) John Eustace’s Departure from Blackburn(02:44) Growing Up in France(07:38) The Toughest Challenges of Being a Professional Footballer(08:36) Joining Cardiff City(11:15) Facing Liverpool in the Carling Cup Final(13:09) Blackburn Rovers(16:24) Breaking Down the Art of Forward Play(21:51) Building Momentum at Blackburn Rovers(25:30) The Move to Aston Villa(29:09) Changes in Management at Aston Villa – Rémi Garde(33:33) Aston Villa vs Birmingham City(34:33) Lessons Learned & Handling Different Managers(39:09) The Transfer to Middlesbrough(42:42) Life Beyond Football(45:42) Life at Blackburn Rovers Today(50:26) Final Thoughts & Reflections

Ep 97Tony Pulis - The Reality of Being A Premier League Manager
In this fascinating interview, Tony Pulis, one of football’s most respected managers, shares his journey from humble beginnings to Premier League success. Known for his loyalty, strong leadership, and ability to maximies his team's potential, Pulis discusses his management philosophy, coaching style, and approach to player development. He reflects on his time at Stoke City, where he fostered team spirit and unity, as well as his experiences managing at clubs like Crystal Palace and West Brom.Pulis also offers valuable insights into the evolving world of academy football and youth development, shedding light on the future of the sport. Throughout the conversation, he opens up about handling media criticism, managing under pressure, and the crucial role of community in football. His leadership has shaped his teams and earned him recognition as one of the game's most respected figures.⚡️CONNECT WITH ME:INSTAGRAM: @christiescanlonofficialLINKEDIN: Christie Scanlon LinkedInTIKTOK: @christiescanlonofficial⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Episode Introduction(00:47) Sky Sports Documentary: Chasing the Dream(04:57) Don’t Forget to Subscribe(05:22) Supporting Young Players: Lessons Learned(09:58) Growing Up in Newport: Early Influences(15:18) Achieving Success In The Premier League(19:44) Responding to Criticism of Playing Style(21:18) Life in Stoke and the Coates Family Relationship(25:44) The Experience of Being Sacked as a Manager(32:39) Revival at Crystal Palace: Turning the Tide(35:24) Building a Winning Team(37:37) Reaching 1,000 Games as a Manager(39:33) Reflecting on Regrets in Football(42:46) Looking Ahead: Future Ambitions(47:29) A Passion for History Beyond Football(49:31) Closing Remarks

Ep 96How to Achieve Your DREAMS in Women’s Football - Carla Ward
In this episode, Carla Ward shares her remarkable journey—from playing football on a council estate to leading in the WSL. She reflects on the growth of women’s football, the need for investment, and why she believes the WSL is the best league in the world.🔍 Carla also dives into:🔥 Managing rivalries – Leading both Birmingham City & Aston Villa.💼 Coaching philosophies – Building winning teams & developing players.⚖️ Handling pressure – Managing mental fatigue & high expectations.🔮 What’s next – Her future plans and the next chapter of her career.🚀 Don’t miss this episode—Follow & Rate the show!📩 Stay updated: Join the newsletter📱 Let’s connect:Instagram: @christiescanlonofficialLinkedIn: Christie ScanlonTikTok: @christiescanlonofficial⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Preview(00:54) The Current Landscape of the WSL(02:57) Early Beginnings in Torquay(07:21) Becoming a Professional Manager at Sheffield United(10:40) Sheffield United's Super League Application(11:30) Applying and Developing Coaching Skills(15:43) Departure from Sheffield United(17:02) Joining Birmingham City(20:58) Ownership Challenges at Birmingham(23:10) Defying Expectations(24:30) Receiving the Aston Villa Offer(27:38) Managing Birmingham and Villa Rivalries(29:40) Establishing Processes at Aston Villa(33:13) Growing and Adapting in the Role(35:39) Stepping Away from Villa to Focus on Family(40:56) Managing Mental Fatigue in Football(42:20) Planning the Next Chapter

Ep 95Matthew Macklin: How to Overcome Triumphs and Struggles in Boxing
In this episode, former pro boxer Matthew Macklin shares his incredible journey—from growing up in Birmingham with Irish roots to fighting some of the biggest names in boxing. He opens up about the discipline, sacrifice, and mental resilience needed to succeed in the ring.🔍 Matthew also dives into:🔥 Facing legends – Battles against Sergio Martinez & Gennady Golovkin.🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia’s role – The impact on boxing’s future.⚖️ Controversial decisions – Navigating politics & judging in the sport.🧠 Mental resilience – Overcoming setbacks & the mindset of a fighter.🚀 Don’t miss this episode—Follow & Rate the show!📩 Stay updated: Join the newsletter📱 Let’s connect:Instagram: @christiescanlonofficialLinkedIn: Christie ScanlonTikTok: @christiescanlonofficial⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Preview & Opening Remarks(01:01) Saudi Arabia’s Role in Boxing(05:05) Growing Up in Birmingham with Irish Roots(12:04) Passion for Boxing & Irish Heritage(16:33) Discipline & Mindset in the Boxing World(20:57) Overcoming Defeat: Insights from Jamie Moore(28:34) Mental Health & Resilience in Boxing(31:55) Competing in the USA: Pursuing World Titles(42:07) Felix Sturm & Controversial Judges’ Decisions(48:29) Reflecting on Golovkin, Martinez & More(53:11) Closing Reflections

Ep 94A MASTERCLASS in Resilience in Football Management - Gary Bowyer
In this episode, Gary Bowyer talks about his football journey, from his love for the game inspired by his dad to becoming a manager after an injury ended his playing career. He shares his time away from football, the lessons learned as caretaker manager at Blackburn Rovers, and his coaching approach. Gary discusses the challenges of club management, the impact of ownership on stability, and his experiences at clubs like Blackburn, Blackpool, Bradford, Salford City, and Dundee. He also looks ahead to future opportunities in football, possibly in a sporting director role. ⚽️📰 Subscribe to my newsletter: Link⚡️ Connect with me:📸 Instagram: @christiescanlonofficial🔗 LinkedIn: christiescanlon🎵 TikTok: @christiescanlonofficial⏰ Timecodes:(00:00) Reflections on Time Away from Football(02:13) Early Passion for the Game(08:07) Injury and New Challenges(12:10) Coaching Principles(13:36) Early Days at Derby County(15:47) Move to Blackburn Rovers(20:15) Caretaker Manager at Blackburn(25:35) Insights on Blackburn's Ownership(29:25) Transition to Blackpool(33:40) Blackpool Protests & Ownership Issues(39:02) Joining Salford City(43:16) Opportunities with Dundee(49:09) Closing Thoughts

S1 Ep 93From Handsworth to the Premier League: Darren Moore Shares His Journey
In this inspiring interview, Darren Moore shares his incredible journey from growing up in Handsworth, Birmingham, to becoming a professional footballer and manager. He reflects on key moments in his career, including leading West Bromwich Albion and Sheffield Wednesday, overcoming challenges, and the values he learned from his upbringing that shaped him as a player and coach. Darren also discusses pivotal matches, such as turning around a 4-0 deficit against Peterborough in the playoffs, the importance of staying grounded, adapting to different environments, and the influence of mentors in his life. Join us as Darren delves into the highs and lows of football management, his passion for helping younger coaches, and his hopes for Port Vale.📰 Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.mindsetforsport.com/newsletter⚡️ CONNECT WITH ME:📸 INSTAGRAM: @christiescanlonofficial🔗 LINKEDIN: christiescanlon🎵 TIKTOK: @christiescanlonofficial⏰ Timecodes:(00:00) Introduction(00:55) Port Vale’s Journey to League Two Success(02:40) Childhood and Early Life in Birmingham(07:11) First Steps into Professional Football(15:08) Playing Days at West Bromwich Albion(18:57) Don’t Forget to Follow!(19:24) Transitioning into Football Management(22:04) Influence of Tony Pulis on Career(24:05) Taking the Helm as West Brom Manager(31:46) Departure from West Bromwich Albion(33:30) Managing Doncaster and Sheffield Wednesday(38:57) Missing Out on Automatic Promotion(41:29) Play-Off Battle Against Peterborough(47:44) Race and Diversity Issues in English Football(52:15) Managing Players with Experience(54:10) Closing Reflections

Ep 92How to Elevate Your Game in US Soccer: Rick Cost’s Winning Formula
In this episode, I sit down with Rick Cost, the High-Performance Director at US Soccer, to uncover the secrets behind high-performance strategies in American soccer. Discover the critical importance of understanding player physiology and the risks associated with overuse in player management and risk assessment. Rick shares insights into how a proactive approach can help mitigate potential injuries and enhance performance. We also explore the contrasting coaching environments in America and Europe, emphasising the collaborative nature of U.S. coaching, as well as the cultural differences that shape coaching practices and their influence on player development.Rick addresses the impact of the "pay-to-play" system on youth soccer and advocates for a tiered approach to enhance competition, emphasising accessibility and inclusivity in youth sports. He discusses the importance of communication among coaches and staff in managing player well-being, and sharing strategies for fostering a supportive environment. Join us for valuable insights from Rick's extensive experience in high-performance sport. ⏰ Timecodes ⏰(00:00) Opening Remarks & Exclusive Preview(01:07) A Global Perspective: Europe vs USA in Soccer(04:30) Shaping the Future: Progress and Prospects of US Soccer(10:55) 2026 World Cup: Building a Lasting Legacy(15:01) Fixture Congestion Challenges(23:22) Revolutionising Player Welfare in Modern Sport(30:47) Redefining Success in the Landscape of US Soccer(33:17) Paving the Path to Elite Performance in Sport(41:29) Unlocking Personal Growth in Competitive Environments(46:03) Vision for the Future & Closing Reflections