Unboxed Podcast

This week on Unboxed, I’m joined by none other than Maddie Hinch OBE — Olympic gold medalist, England and GB hockey legend, and one of the most iconic goalkeepers our sport has ever seen.We chat about what it’s really like standing in goal on the biggest stages in the world, the pressure that comes with it, and the routines that kept her calm when everything was on the line. Maddie also opens up about the highs, the challenges, and how she’s managed to stay grounded (and keep her sense of humour!) through it all.If you’re a goalkeeper, a hockey fan, or just curious about the person behind the pads, this is one you don’t want to miss.Make sure to follow the socials to stay up to date with all the behind the scenes and joining our Unboxed Community. ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️https://www.instagram.com/_unboxedpod/?__pwa=1#stayunboxed #unboxed #unboxingthegoalkeeper

In this episode of Unboxing The Goalkeeper, we get chatting to one of the most exciting goalkeepers in the international game, England and Great Britain International James Mazarelo. Discussing all from our love to talk goalkeeping, being on trial at a very successful football club and turning failure into success elsewhere. Not only are you getting mindset and guidance tips from a goalkeeper, but many topics covered can be used across all areas of life. If you thought you loved watching him playing on the field, you're going to love him even more listening to him here. This episode is supported by OBO Goalkeeping, helping share the stories of their amazing goalkeepers worldwide. If you're ever looking for the best goalkeeping equipment on the market, make sure to check them out. Make sure to follow on the social for all the BTS of this episode. You never know what fun you'll find there. ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️https://www.instagram.com/_unboxedpod/?__pwa=1#stayunboxed #unboxedpodcast #unboxingthegoalkeeper

On this episode of Unboxing the Goalkeeper, we sat down with now European Silver Medalists, Maurits Visser. Maurits shares what it is like playing for the formidable HC Bloemendaal and the Dutch National team. From winning the Hoofdklasse, European Hockey League (EHL), and now a silver medal at Europeans, what it next for Maurits?We find out all about his mentality on the pitch, how he manages training in a team environment as a goalkeeper, and what is important for him while he is playing. Make sure to share in the comments what you took away from this episode.This episode is supported by OBO Goalkeeping, helping share the stories of their amazing goalkeepers worldwide. If you're ever looking for the best goalkeeping equipment on the market, make sure to check them out. Make sure to follow the social's for all the BTS of this episode. You never know what fun you'll find there. ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️https://www.instagram.com/_unboxedpod/?__pwa=1

In this episode of Unboxing The Goalkeeper, we sit down with current Olympic Champion, World Champion, and European Champion Anne Veenendaal from the Netherlands to discuss her life as a goalkeeper. We take it back to younger Anne, how she got into the gear, the fun of still playing, and not caring what people think of her in and out of the pads. Goalkeeping is about creating and sharing your own personality and showcasing the world who you are. If you want to find out how to be your person in gear, make sure to listen to the end, where Anne shares all her tips and what worked for her. We find out Anne's passion for still playing, but also what she loves doing out of the gear. Being able to have the balance of another passion out of the gear has helped Anne find joy after a turbulent few years with her national team.This episode is supported by OBO Goalkeeping, helping share the stories of their amazing goalkeepers worldwide. If you're ever looking for the best goalkeeping equipment on the market, make sure to check them out. Make sure to follow on the social for all the BTS of this episode. You never know what fun you'll find there. ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️https://www.instagram.com/_unboxedpod/?__pwa=1

In this inspiring episode of Unboxed, we sit down with Claire Taggart—trailblazer, Paralympian, and now, retired elite boccia athlete turned business owner. As Northern Ireland’s first-ever Paralympic boccia player, Claire reached the pinnacle of her sport, competing on the world stage and breaking barriers for athletes with disabilities.Now stepping into a new chapter after announcing her retirement, Claire shares the emotional highs and challenges of leaving elite sport behind, and how she’s channeled her energy into building her own business. We dive into the lessons sport taught her, the courage it took to walk away, and the passion driving her forward as an entrepreneur.This is a story of evolution, empowerment, and finding identity beyond the game.🔓 Unbox the journey from athlete to advocate, competitor to creator.

In this episode of Unboxed, we sit down with Northern Ireland’s all-time leading goalscorer, Rachel Furness — a powerhouse on the pitch and a trailblazer off it. From playing through multiple knee injuries to stepping away from international football for her mental health, Rachel opens up about what it truly means to fight for your dream — even when your body and mind beg you to stop.We talk about:The doctor who told her to quit football at 16 — and why she didn’tScoring historic goals for her country, even with broken bonesThe hidden cost of success at Euro 2022 and her battle with anxietyWhy being vulnerable is now her greatest strengthThis isn’t just a football story — it’s a raw, real conversation about resilience, identity, mental health, and the power of showing up when everything feels like it's falling apart.🔊 Whether you're an athlete, coach, or just someone trying to keep going — Rachel's journey will move you.

On this episode of Unboxed, Irish boxing trailblazer Michaela Walsh steps out of the stereotypes and into her story. From lacing up gloves in a world that didn’t expect girls to fight, to growing alongside her brother Aidan in and out of the ring, Michaela opens up about what it really took to break through — not just in sport, but within herself. We talk about resilience, redefining limits, and the moment she chose to stop waiting and start helping herself. This is boxing unboxed — raw, real, and relentless.Make sure to follow along with the socials! https://www.instagram.com/_unboxedpod/#UnboxedPodcast #MichaelaWalsh #Olympics #Resilience #MindsetMatters #UnboxedConversations #stayunboxed

This week, Ayeisha sits down with Colin Judge, Paralympian and European champion in para table tennis, whose story is anything but ordinary.Colin was born with one arm and no legs—but from a young age, he refused to let that define his limits. What began as a casual introduction to table tennis became a lifelong pursuit of excellence, identity, and purpose.In this powerful conversation, Colin opens up about the emotional and physical challenges he's faced, feeling excluded as a 14 year old, taking initiative for himself, and going after the highest points college course in the country.This episode isn’t just about medals or rankings. It’s about mental resilience, self-belief, and the courage to build a life on your own terms.🔗 Follow along: @_unboxedpod#UnboxedPodcast #ColinJudge #ParaAthlete #Paralympics #Resilience #DisabilityAndIdentity #MindsetMatters #UnboxedConversations

This week on Unboxed, Ayeisha sits down with Anna McGann, Irish rugby international, to explore a journey that’s anything but conventional. Anna didn’t grow up dreaming of green jerseys in rugby or packed stadiums—in fact, she almost stumbled into the sport. What started as a chance encounter with rugby became a powerful outlet for grief, growth, and unexpected belonging.In this deeply personal conversation, Anna opens up about the loss of her dad and how that heartbreak quietly shaped her path. She reflects on what it means to be painfully introverted in a loud, high-performance world, and how she learned to find her voice both on and off the pitch.This isn’t just a story about rugby. It’s about resilience, identity, and the unexpected places we find strength.https://www.instagram.com/_unboxedpod/

What do you get when you mix Northern Irish grit, English finesse, and a dash of questionable banter? You get David Ames — international hockey star, midfield maestro, and self-proclaimed expert in team fines.In this episode of Unboxed, Ayeisha sits down with her former GB Hockey captain to chat about everything from Olympic pressure to switching nations — yes, we get into that move from Ireland to GB. He opens up about injuries, leadership, and how he accidentally became the calmest man on the pitch (unless there’s a dodgy umpire call involved).Expect some behind-the-scenes laughs, surprising honesty, and a lot of hockey talk that even non-hockey nerds will enjoy. Oh — and find out who really runs the team WhatsApp group.This one’s full of heart, humour, and a few digs for good measure. Let’s unbox David Ames.Join in on the conversation over on our Instagram channel here⬇️ https://www.instagram.com/_unboxedpod/#StayUnboxed #Unboxedpodcast

Tess Howard is more than just a world-class hockey player — she’s a boundary-breaker, a feminist force, and a voice for choice in sport and beyond. In this episode of Unboxed, Tess opens up about the poetry and pain of injury, the pressure of performance, and the powerful moment she chose to speak up about something as simple — and as symbolic — as shorts.From the pitch to public platforms, Tess is rewriting the narrative for female athletes. We talk body autonomy, identity, recovery, and how small acts of rebellion can spark real change. This one’s a conversation about sport, but it’s also about society, storytelling, and standing in your truth — with calm conviction.Press play to get Unboxed with Tess Howard.#unboxedpodcast #unboxed

In this episode of Unboxed, Ayeisha sits down with Zac Ward — Ireland Rugby 7s player and Tackle Your Feelings ambassador — to unpack the raw, real journey behind reaching his childhood dream of playing for Ulster. Zac opens up about taking an unconventional route to the top, the mindset it took to stay focused, and the power of being relentlessly goal-oriented. From overcoming setbacks to representing Ireland on the world stage, this is a story of belief, resilience, and finding purpose far beyond the try line.

In this special kickoff to Season 2, we go behind the scenes with the Irish Women’s Hockey Team.From underdogs to world-stage, their journey is nothing short of legendary.We talk grit, history-making moments, the mindset of champions — and the battles nobody sees off the pitch.It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s a story that proves why this team has captured a nation's heart and inspired a new generation.This is Ireland. This is Unboxed.

In this episode of Unboxed, we sit down with Aifric Keogh, the Irish rowing legend who paddled her way to a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Growing up in Furbo, County Galway, she started rowing in secondary school as a way to find the right people for her. Tune in as we chat about Olympic-sized challenges, boatloads of hard work, and whether she still gets competitive over who rows the hardest in a kayak on holiday. Don’t miss this hilarious, inspiring, and downright impressive episode of Unboxed! Don't forget to follow us on socials for the crack and what is happening next with unboxed. #unboxed #community #olympicrower

On this episode of Unboxed, host Ayeisha McFerran chats down with Davis Atkin—a unique talent who’s redefining norms and embracing individuality. From his passion for hockey as a way of life to his love for makeup artistry, Davis shares how he navigates the balance between pursuing his passions and challenging the perceptions of others. Together, they explore how self-expression and resilience have shaped his journey, proving that authenticity is the ultimate game-changer. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that’s equal parts bold, insightful, and empowering. Make sure to follow the Pod, without your support these episodes wouldn't be possible. https://www.instagram.com/_unboxedpod/?__pwa=1

Join us as we dive into the adrenaline-fueled world of Greg Callaghan, Ireland’s very own Enduro mountain biking legend. From tearing through rugged trails to climbing the ranks of the world’s most competitive races, Greg has made a name for himself as one of the sport's fiercest and funniest competitors. In this episode, Greg shares his journey from the green hills of Ireland to the podiums of international Enduro events. We’ll explore what it takes to thrive in one of the most physically and mentally demanding sports, his proudest achievements, and how he handles the inevitable crashes—on and off the bike. With a mix of grit, humor, and a love for the ride, Greg’s story will inspire anyone chasing their own wild adventure. Whether you’re a mountain biking fanatic or just here for the laughs, this is one ride you won’t want to miss! let us know what you think here in the comments. Make sure to follow @unboxedpodcast on socials for all the behind the scenes. https://www.instagram.com/_unboxedpod/ 0.00 - Introduction 3.02 - The World of Enduro Racing 6.02 - Growing Up With Bikes 9.04 - Injuries and Learning Experiences 10.58 -Transitioning to Mountain Biking 15.00 - The Social Aspect of Biking 16.27 - Choosing a Path: Education V Biking 20.33 - Becoming a Professional 24.03 - The Evolution of Biking 27.04 - Life on the Road as a Racer 29.55 - Memorable Racing Experiences 33.59 - The Reality of Being a Pro Racer 35.55 - Staying True to Ones Self 38.45 - Future Aspirations and Coaching 44.52 - The Unboxed 11

The one you all have been asking for! In this episode of Unboxed, we chat with Anne Veenendaal, the badass Dutch hockey goalkeeper with some incredible stories to share. Anne talks about the highs and lows of her career, making a big comeback, and figuring out who she is along the way. We also dive into her love for photography, tattoos and how they’ve become part of her journey. From tough training sessions to finding her groove again, Anne keeps it real about life on and off the pitch. If you’re into sports, self-expression, or just love a good comeback story, this one’s for you! https://www.instagram.com/

In this episode of Unboxed, Ayeisha sits down with Nicole Turner, a triple Paralympian and one of Ireland's most inspiring and successful swimmers.  Nicole opens up about her journey as an elite athlete, managing the pressures of competitive swimming, and the resilience it takes to balance life in and out of the pool. All the while having a willing family to support the challenge of elite sport and the decision the parents made when nicole was younger to persue her swimming dream.   As someone with achondroplasia (a form of dwarfism), Nicole shares her experiences navigating a world built for the average, breaking barriers, and redefining perceptions. She also reflects on her role as a leader, managing relationships, and inspiring others with her story of determination and self-belief. Tune in for an honest and uplifting conversation about embracing challenges, celebrating uniqueness, and striving for greatness, no matter the odds. 🎙️ Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of Unboxed, we share the inspiring story of young athlete, Jack Woolley from Tallaght, a tough but tightly knit community in Dublin, who pursued his Olympic dreams with the unwavering support of those around him. Despite the stereotypes and challenges of growing up in a rough area, he stayed true to himself, keeping his focus and humility intact as he rose above the noise. From local pub trips and a flag from the council, hear how Tallaght came together to champion his journey. This story isn’t just about one person’s success—it’s a celebration of resilience, authenticity, and the power of a community united by a shared dream.* We want to hear from you!!! Do you know a similar story of a community coming together to support someone? Or perhaps you've experienced this yourself? Share your thoughts or stories with us on social media using #UnboxedPodcast, or leave us a review to let us know what you think about this episode. Your feedback helps us continue sharing stories that inspire and unite!" Instagram: @_unboxedpod TikTok: @_unboxedpod Email: unboxedpodcast@outlook.com

In this powerful episode of Unboxed, we explore the intersection of belief, OCD, and the world of sports. Lena Neill takes us on a deeply personal journey, sharing how navigating a challenging mental health condition like OCD can influence not just one’s sense of self but also their beliefs, values, and participation in sports. We discuss how different cultures within the sporting world shape our understanding of identity and resilience, and how faith and mental health can be interwoven in ways that empower and uplift. Despite the pressure and expectations, our guest reflects on staying true to personal beliefs and finding balance while facing both mental health challenges and the demands of being an athlete. This episode is a reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of community support when dealing with complex mental health issues, belief systems, and cultural expectations in sports. Have you navigated similar journeys involving belief, mental health, or sports? How have these areas shaped your identity? Share your story with us on social media using #UnboxedPodcast, or leave a review and let us know how this episode resonated with you. We love hearing from our listeners and encourage you to be a part of the Unboxed community as we explore these life-changing topics together. Much Love! Ish #Unboxedpodcast