On this week's episode we speak with Laurie Walker, Goalkeeper at Solihull Moors. We discuss family dynamics and the impact it had on his career and personal life growing up. 

Football was a great escape but it didnt come without its challenges some of which were the most extraordinary experiences we’ve heard in a while.

A real feel good story from being let go at a club in your teens to then making your debut for the same club a decade on. 

A ‘you’ll never be good enough’ comment left Laurie striving to prove them wrong and more himself right this episode will showcase how one simple comment can carry such an incredible impact and burden on someone’s life.

Listening to Laurie talk about his time at Kettering and how they didn’t get paid for months and months will give you an insight to how strong his desire was to succeed at being a footballer.

When going through his tough times he highlighted how important it is to have a partner alongside you that can help guide you the testing moments and in Lauries case how his partner help him to find purpose outside of football and find himself again.

This episode has highs and lows, twists and turns but highlights Lauries resilience in tough situations and his desire to not allow past comments to dictate what he can achieve

This week on the podcast, we’re joined by former professional footballer Aaron McLean.

From the very start of the episode, it becomes clear that a central theme in Aaron’s journey is how embarrassment and early setbacks shaped his drive and decision-making. He opens up about his formative years at Chelsea, the unexpected release from the club, and the deep sense of shame that followed. Looking back, Aaron reflects on how that early disappointment became a powerful motivator—fueling a successful career both on and off the pitch.

Aaron also speaks candidly about his experiences with racism throughout his career, both as a player and now as a broadcaster. His openness, resilience, and perspective on life, football, and personal growth are truly inspiring. It's a remarkable conversation with someone who continues to be a powerful role model on and off our screens.

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