Most aspiring footballers and sports enthusiasts overlook the mental resilience needed to survive the highs and lows of a career. Tony McParland's journey from youth prodigy at Celtic to navigating injury setbacks, club turnarounds, and life after football reveals priceless lessons about perseverance, mindset, and the unspoken struggles behind the sport’s glitz.In this candid episode, Tony opens up about the reality of dropping out of elite football, from the pitch to plumbing tools, and eventually building a thriving business that leverages his sports experience. You'll discover how injuries, mental health challenges, and external pressures threatened to derail his career – and the strategies he used to bounce back stronger than ever. He shares invaluable insights for players on the cusp of their careers, emphasizing the importance of accumulating first-team appearances early and cultivating resilience to withstand inevitable setbacks. We break down:

• How to develop mental toughness when facing career-ending injuries or rejection
• The hidden value of lower league and junior football for personal growth
• Why modern youth training might be missing the mark and how street football shaped Tony’s skill set
• The shifting landscape of football development and the importance of experience over tactics
• Practical advice for athletes transitioning out of sport and building a second career

Why does this episode matter? Because understanding the real sacrifices behind the game prepares players for longevity and life beyond football. Tony’s story underscores that success isn’t just talent—it’s resilience, adaptability, and knowing when to pivot. Whether you're a young prospect, a worried parent, or a sports fanatic, you’ll walk away with actionable lessons to protect and maximize your sporting journey.Perfect for current players, coaches, or anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes realities of professional sports. Tune in to hear firsthand how setbacks can become setups for future success—and why resilience is the greatest game-changer.

Most managers are stuck in old-school coaching methods—John McGlynn, Falkirk’s inspiring leader, proves that high standards, genuine care and leading by example can transform a modest budget into a winning culture.In this candid episode, John shares his journey from youth teams to leading Falkirk in one of Scottish football’s most competitive leagues. Discover how his commitment to high standards, building strong relationships and creating a professional environment ignited a tight-knit, competitive squad that defies expectations despite a limited budget.You'll find out:How John’s early coaching philosophy centered around integrity and setting high standards—values he ingrains in his team todayThe importance of the entire football community—backroom staff, players, and even physical environments—in building a success cultureWhy attention to detail—like building a boot room or getting the basics right—can define a team’s identityThe role of honesty, humility and relentless hard work in climbing from League One to a semi-final Scottish Cup appearanceHow forging genuine relationships and fostering camaraderie fuels performance and resilience, even when resources are tightThis episode is essential listening for coaches, leaders, and sports enthusiasts—anyone motivated by stories of how grit, authenticity and leadership can turn modest ambitions into triumphs. If you believe in the power of culture and teamwork over budget and superstardom, John McGlynn’s insights will inspire you to rethink what’s possible.The stakes are clear: develop not just better players, but better human beings. Whether you're managing a team or leading in business, John’s lessons on discipline, environment and relationship-building offer universal strategies to create a winning culture.Ready to challenge the status quo and learn how to lead with integrity, build resilience, and inspire excellence—regardless of resources? Hit play and discover how John McGlynn’s approach could redefine your leadership game.🎧 Boots to Billing with Alan McFadden & Chris Fahey📩 Reach out if you're in transition — a conversation is all it takes.This episode is proudly sponsored by:Pitch to Placements – Founded by Alan McFadden, Pitch to Placements is a training and placement company designed specifically for former footballers transitioning into sales and recruitment careers in the UK and Dubai. Whether your career has ended early through injury, release, or retirement, the skills you've built through football – resilience, communication, competitiveness, and thick skin – make you tailor-made for sales. If you're a former player looking for what comes next, reach out for a conversation.🌐 www.pitchtoplacements.co.uk📱 Available on all social media platformsAGPayroll – Glasgow-based AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and in over 160 countries worldwide. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, limited company, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll.🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk📞 0333 034 1472📧 customercare@agpayroll.co.uk📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ

Mark Corcoran made over 300 senior appearances across Hamilton, St Mirren, Ross County, Partick Thistle and Stranraer — but what he did after football is what really turns heads.With just £300 and a mate in Thailand, Mark co-founded Be Inspired Clothing and grew it into one of the UK's biggest streetwear brands. Along the way, Lionel Messi ended up wearing his gear to board a private jet. Suarez rocked it at the Ballon d'Or. Andy Robertson was buying it before Liverpool even came calling.In this episode, Mark talks about the coffee club that sparked the idea, the jumper disaster that nearly killed the brand on day one, and why the skills you build in a football dressing room are the exact same ones that make you dangerous in business.If you're a footballer wondering what comes next — or anyone thinking about starting something from nothing — this one's for you.

🎧 Boots to Billing with Alan McFadden & Chris Fahey

📩 Reach out if you're in transition — a conversation is all it takes.

This episode is proudly sponsored by:

Pitch to Placements – Founded by Alan McFadden, Pitch to Placements is a training and placement company designed specifically for former footballers transitioning into sales and recruitment careers in the UK and Dubai. Whether your career has ended early through injury, release, or retirement, the skills you've built through football – resilience, communication, competitiveness, and thick skin – make you tailor-made for sales. If you're a former player looking for what comes next, reach out for a conversation.

🌐 www.pitchtoplacements.co.uk

📱 Available on all social media platforms

AGPayroll – Glasgow-based AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and in over 160 countries worldwide. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, limited company, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll.

🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk

📞 0333 034 1472

📧 customercare@agpayroll.co.uk

📸 Instagram: @agpayroll

💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll

📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ

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In the second part of this brilliant conversation, Alan McFadden and Chris Fahey continue with Tam McManus as the stories get even bigger and the honesty cuts even deeper.

Tam picks up where he left off – from Wayne Rooney putting him in a headlock as a 15-year-old to setting up Rooney's goal years later in a testimonial at Dunfermline, after Nemanja Vidić had already tried to take his head off. There are cracking tales from his time at Dundee, the heartbreak of relegation on the final day at Livingston, and how a move to Motherwell with Terry Butcher should have been the right call – but Dundee's signing-on fee proved too tempting.

The Colorado Rapids chapter is pure gold – altitude sickness, fans clapping missed sitters, playing against David Beckham, and the commentary that had to be heard to be believed. Then it's on to Derry City, where envelopes of cash turned into double contracts, unpaid wages, and a club that eventually went bust – but not before Tam scored his one and only European goal in Latvia.

Back in Scotland, there's a genuinely touching story about Steven Pressley at Falkirk. A man Tam couldn't stand as a player, who quietly gave up his own win bonuses and appearance money so Tam could earn a decent wage while injured. It completely changed how Tam saw him – and explains why Elvis is doing so well as a manager now.

The conversation turns to life after football and it hits hard. Tam opens up about the transition from professional footballer to selling stationery, the nerves of starting a job he knew nothing about, and the moment he realised people were buying from him – not the company. Alan and Chris make a passionate case for why more needs to be done to help players find their next step, and reveal exciting new plans to place former footballers into sales careers in Dubai.

Funny, honest, and packed with stories you won't hear anywhere else.

This episode is proudly sponsored by:

Pitch to Placements – Founded by Alan McFadden, Pitch to Placements is a training and placement company designed specifically for former footballers transitioning into sales and recruitment careers in the UK and Dubai. Whether your career has ended early through injury, release, or retirement, the skills you've built through football – resilience, communication, competitiveness, and thick skin – make you tailor-made for sales. If you're a former player looking for what comes next, reach out for a conversation.

🌐 www.pitchtoplacements.co.uk

📱 Available on all social media platforms

AGPayroll – Glasgow-based AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and in over 160 countries worldwide. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, limited company, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll.

🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk

📞 0333 034 1472

📧 customercare@agpayroll.co.uk

📸 Instagram: @agpayroll

💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll

📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ

In this episode, Alan McFadden and Chris Fahey sit down with former Hibs striker Tam McManus for a conversation packed with incredible stories, big characters, and plenty of laughs.

Tam takes us back to his days playing in the cage at Sighthill with Celtic North, getting spotted by Hibs scout Roger McElvie, and the night Donald Park turned up frozen stiff after driving around in a snowstorm for two hours just to sign him. From there, it was a YTS at Easter Road, cleaning Chick Charnley's boots, and working his way into a first team packed with talent under Alex McLeish – a manager Tam rates as the best he's ever worked under.

There are brilliant stories throughout – Russell Latapy turning up for a trial smoking a fag outside the changing room before producing a Cruyff turn and a 40-yard pass on a boggy pitch, only for McLeish to pull him off after 25 minutes and sign him on the spot. A trip to Trinidad and Tobago where Latapy was treated like royalty and Brian Lara walked into their local pub. And the time a teenage Scott Brown announced himself with a bone-crunching tackle in a reserve match against Hearts that left everyone in the ground asking who the wee boy at right back was.

Tam also opens up about spending six weeks living alongside Paul Gascoigne at Boston United – travelling to training together, getting dragged along to Question of Sport, watching England in the pub while fans lined up pints in front of Gazza, and witnessing his incredible generosity with a young girl collecting for cancer treatment outside the stadium.

There's honest reflection too – the wrong move to Dundee over Motherwell, the heartbreak of relegation on the final day at Livingston, and arriving at Falkirk on the same day as an 18-year-old Anthony Stokes who promptly scored a hat-trick and kept him out the team.

Alan and Chris also dive into a brilliant debate about why Scottish football has stopped producing strikers, the death of the 4-4-2, and why nobody wants to be a number nine anymore.

One of the funniest and most entertaining episodes yet – and we haven't even got to Wayne Rooney putting Tam in a headlock at 15 years old.

This episode is proudly sponsored by:

Pitch to Placements – Founded by Alan McFadden, Pitch to Placements is a training and placement company designed specifically for former footballers transitioning into sales and recruitment careers in the UK and Dubai. Whether your career has ended early through injury, release, or retirement, the skills you've built through football – resilience, communication, competitiveness, and thick skin – make you tailor-made for sales.

Pitch to Placements provides the coaching, community, and corporate opportunities to help you take the next step. If you're a former player looking for what comes next, reach out for a conversation.

🌐 www.pitchtoplacements.co.uk

📱 Available on all social media platforms

AGPayroll – Glasgow-based AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and in over 160 countries worldwide. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, limited company, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll.

🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk

📞 0333 034 1472

📧 customercare@agpayroll.co.uk

📸 Instagram: @agpayroll

💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll

📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ

In the second part of this powerful conversation, Alan McFadden and Chris Fahey go deeper with Ryan Stevenson into the reality of life after football – and it doesn't hold back.Ryan opens up about the devastating impact of retirement, divorce, and losing his identity all at once. He speaks with raw honesty about spiralling to a place where he was googling how to end his life, running up a hill near his village and planning a date to go through with it. It's a conversation that will stop you in your tracks – and one that could genuinely save lives.But there's hope in this story too. Ryan shares how a chance Instagram message to his now wife Sarah became the turning point he desperately needed, and how a mentor in Neil Watt helped him find a new path through property management – growing a business from one property to over 7,000.Together, the three of them make a passionate case for why more needs to be done to support players transitioning out of the game, and why the skills footballers have are massively undervalued in the business world.There are lighter moments too – including some brilliant stories about Jimmy Bullard turning up to training in fishing waders and sitting through team meetings in ways only he could get away with.An essential listen for anyone connected to football – and a reminder that behind the goals and the glory, there's a human being trying to figure out what comes next.If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts, please reach out. You can contact the Samaritans free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.This episode is proudly sponsored by:AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and internationally. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll. Recently awarded FCSA accreditation, you know you're in safe, compliant hands.🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk📞 0333 034 1472📧 customercare@agpayroll.co.uk📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZSustainable Packaging Scotland – Scotland's fastest growing packaging distribution company. They're passionate about reducing your costs and making your packaging greener, without compromising on quality.🌐 www.sustainablepackagingscotland.co.uk📞 0141 648 7120📸 Instagram: @sustainablepackagingscotland💼 LinkedIn: Sustainable Packaging ScotlandEastwood Twelve Golf Club – A cracking 12-hole course in Newton Mearns, near Glasgow, with quirky holes, stunning scenery, and a brilliant café and bar, The 13th. They've frozen their 2025 membership fees for a limited time before switching to 2026 pricing, so get yourself along for a round before they change. You won't be disappointed.🌐 www.eastwoodtwelve.co.uk📞 07729 664555📧 info@eastwoodtwelve.co.uk📸 Instagram: @eastwoodtwelve📍 Eastwood Estate, Mearns Road, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow, G77 6RX

In this episode, Alan McFadden and Chris Fahey sit down with Ryan Stevenson – a man who racked up over 390 senior appearances across Scotland and England, and whose football journey started with a pair of Maradona Puma Kings in his front garden in Ayrshire.Ryan opens up about being spotted by Chelsea at just 13, flying between Scotland and London on his own, and sharing digs with a young John Terry. He talks honestly about what it was really like – the bright lights of Stamford Bridge, but also the loneliness, the £60-a-week wages, and missing out on a childhood back home.There are brilliant stories along the way – John Terry's short-lived Mercury convertible, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's generosity, and the senior pros who slipped the young lads a few quid for playing well. Ryan also shares the moment his grandpa stood on the Tynecastle pitch and said the words that stuck with him forever.Beyond the stories, Ryan doesn't hold back on where he thinks Scottish football is falling short – from the lack of duty of care towards young players, to the massive gap between the Scottish and English PFAs, and why clubs should be employing ex-players to guide the next generation.A proper honest conversation about the realities behind the dream.This episode is proudly sponsored by:AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and internationally. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll. Recently awarded FCSA accreditation, you know you're in safe, compliant hands.🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk📞 0333 034 1472📧 customercare@agpayroll.co.uk📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZSustainable Packaging Scotland – Scotland's fastest growing packaging distribution company. They're passionate about reducing your costs and making your packaging greener, without compromising on quality.🌐 www.sustainablepackagingscotland.co.uk📞 0141 648 7120📸 Instagram: @sustainablepackagingscotland💼 LinkedIn: Sustainable Packaging ScotlandEastwood Twelve Golf Club – A cracking 12-hole course in Newton Mearns, near Glasgow, with quirky holes, stunning scenery, and a brilliant café and bar, The 13th. They've frozen their 2025 membership fees for a limited time before switching to 2026 pricing, so get yourself along for a round before they change. You won't be disappointed.🌐 www.eastwoodtwelve.co.uk📞 07729 664555📧 info@eastwoodtwelve.co.uk📸 Instagram: @eastwoodtwelve📍 Eastwood Estate, Mearns Road, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow, G77 6RX

In part two of this powerful episode, Kyle Lafferty kicks things off with hilarious stories from his time at Kilmarnock under Derek McInnes. From setting off industrial-sized fireworks in the stadium that had the police called and an elderly neighbour reporting an "explosion," to orchestrating a naked "orchestra" in the dressing room to welcome new signings (complete with bagpipes and guitars made from teammates), Kyle reveals why that dressing room was one of the best he'd ever been in – and why manager Derek McInnes had to have a word about "please, no more fireworks."

But the conversation takes a more serious turn as Kyle opens up about the darker side of his football career – a gambling addiction that consumed his life from the age of 12 and nearly cost him everything. Kyle shares brutally honest stories about placing bets at half-time during matches, betting on his phone whilst warming up for games, and how the addiction spiralled completely out of control. He explains how the buzz from gambling became bigger than the buzz from scoring goals, and how betting companies would send him thousands in "goodwill gestures" knowing they'd get it back tenfold.

Kyle discusses getting fined by the SFA, the shame of coming out publicly whilst at Hearts (and having coins thrown at him during warm-up at Easter Road), and why he believes there's a massive double standard in punishing players for gambling whilst football is saturated with betting advertisements. He talks candidly about Gamblers Anonymous meetings, why owning up to your problem is the first step, and how his life has completely changed in 19 months of being clean. He explains why he can now have £100 in his wallet for a week when previously £1,000 would be gone in an afternoon.

Kyle finishes by discussing his passion project – his own football academy, where he's stripping kids back to basics and teaching them the skills he learned from the best. He wants to give young players the opportunity to maximise their potential, and his message to anyone struggling with addiction is clear: there is help out there, and recovery is possible.

A raw, emotional, and inspiring conversation about dressing room chaos, the realities of addiction, the importance of mental health support in football, and the power of second chances.

This podcast is sponsored by AGPayroll.