Ever wondered what it's really like to revive a football club from the brink?

In this episode, we’re joined by Charlie Methven, football executive and co-owner of Charlton Athletic. Charlie shares his journey from the chaos at Sunderland to building stability, offering a rare insight into the cultural challenges, leadership struggles, and what it truly takes to turn a club around.

Show Notes:

• Cultural clashes and the challenge of reviving Sunderland
• Hard truths and relentless ambition needed to stabilize a struggling club
• Now at Charlton, Charlie brings the same determination to a new environment
• Honest insights and hard-earned lessons on the realities of football management
• A raw look at the fight against mediocrity in the world of football

Catch the full story and see what it takes to bring a club back to life.

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• Podcast music: Tamsin Waley-Cohen's Mendelssohn's violin concerto

In this episode of A Load of BS on Sport, we sit down with Shaun Edwards, the legendary defence coach of the French national rugby team and a former playing great who has shaped the careers of countless athletes, including our very own Dan Biggar.

We dive deep into Shaun’s coaching philosophy, the cultural nuances of rugby and the secrets behind building a winning mentality.

Show notes:
Coaching Style

• Shaun emphasises clarity and simplicity in coaching, advocating concise communication

Cultural Differences

• Shaun notes the strong work ethic and commitment of French players, challenging stereotypes about their approach to the game

Player Insights

• Dan B shares his perspective on Shaun as a coach, highlighting his commitment to improving players and fostering a strong team culture
• Emphasis on importance of personal connections and understanding players' motivations

Team Dynamics

• The importance of conflict and differing opinions in creating a successful team environment

Legacy and Influence

• Shaun reflects on his impact as a coach and the importance of being approachable and relatable to players
• Dan B acknowledges Shaun’s ability to make defence engaging, fostering a culture of pride in defensive performance

Player Development

• Desire for Improvement: Shaun values players who show a willingness to improve and engage with the coaching process. He appreciates when players have opinions and ask questions, indicating their investment in the game
• Individualised Feedback: He focuses on giving targeted, actionable feedback to players, allowing them to see specific areas for improvement and reinforcing what they do well

Coaching and Legacy

• Impact Beyond Defense: Shaun expresses his desire to be seen as a coach who cares deeply about his players’ overall development, not just their defensive skills. He aims to be remembered for creating a positive environment where players feel valued and understood
• Learning from Experience: Both Shaun and Dan B reflect on the importance of learning from past experiences and failures, shaping their approach to coaching and playing

Personal Insights

• Self-Doubt and Humility: Shaun acknowledges that even successful coaches experience self-doubt and emphasises the need for humility in leadership roles

Please leave a review if you like the podcast; and share with friends. Your support makes us very happy!

• Get the podcast in your inbox every week by subscribing here
• Find out more on our website
• Follow the podcast on LinkedIn
• Follow Dan R on LinkedIn
• Follow Dan R on Twitter
• Follow Dan B on LinkedIn
• Podcast music: Tamsin Waley-Cohen's Mendelssohn's violin concerto

In this episode of A Load of BS on Sport, Tour de France winner and two-time Olympic gold medalist Geraint Thomas joins Dan Ross and Dan Biggar for an in-depth conversation about the grueling demands of professional cycling, the mental toughness required to succeed, and the simple pleasures that keep him grounded. From training at altitude to navigating the pressures of racing, Geraint shares candid insights into his career, balancing family life, and his thoughts on what’s next beyond the bike. Tune in for an honest and inspiring chat with one of cycling’s greats.

Show Notes:

• Love for Suffering: pushing his physical and mental limits, likening cycling pain to a form of addictive suffering
• Team Dynamics & Leadership: changing role from team leader to mentor
• ⁠Mental Edge Over Physical: fine margins in elite cycling
• Embracing Simplicity: the challenges that the structured, monastic lifestyle of cycling imposes on personal relationships
• Tour de France Victory & Emotional Release: emotional break down after crossing the finish line
• Post-Career Fears and Plans: the daunting prospect of transitioning to a new phase in life
• ⁠The Value of Team Leadership: how working with Dave Brailsford shaped his approach to cycling
• Humility and Drive: Geraint shares his humble beginnings and how his mentality was driven by proving doubters wrong

Please leave a review if you like the podcast; and share with friends. Your support makes us very happy!

• Get the podcast in your inbox every week by subscribing here
• Find out more on our website
• Follow the podcast on LinkedIn
• Follow Dan R on LinkedIn
• Follow Dan R on Twitter
• Follow Dan B on LinkedIn
• Podcast music: Tamsin Waley-Cohen's Mendelssohn's violin concerto