Charlie’s first guest is the former England and Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland, as he opens up about his experience with anxiety and depression. Chris takes us back to his toughest times, tells us about the help he received, and shares his advice for people struggling.
British Olympic race-walker Tom Bosworth opens up to Charlie about his experiences with self-destructive behaviour, how it led suicide attempts - and his uplifting journey to recovery. In a deeply moving and personal discussion, Tom shares his advice to anyone really struggling and the steps you can take to improve your mental well-being.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank opens up to Charlie about the importance of mental health in football - and life. Thomas explains how he's been coping during lockdown, and why it's crucial that people talk about their emotions. He also reveals some of his management techniques, including his method of telling a player they're dropped from the team! This is the first of a series of chats with footballers and managers during Mental Health Awareness Week, in partnership with the EFL and Mind.
Doncaster Rovers midfielder Matty Blair speaks to Charlie about how he learned to cope with the loss of his brother. Matty offers advice to anyone struggling with grief, and shares his tips to help your mental well-being...including having a dance in the kitchen! This is the second of a series of chats with footballers and managers during Mental Health Awareness Week, in partnership with the EFL and Mind.
Swindon midfielder Michael Doughty speaks to Charlie about how his background shaped him as a person and footballer, and how he coped with losing his Dad at a young age. Michael, who went to Harrow, opens up about the challenges he faced fitting in at school and in football. He also explains how the sudden passing of his Dad Nigel, who owned Nottingham Forest, effected him and put life into perspective. This is the third of a series of chats with footballers and managers during Mental Health Awareness Week, in partnership with the EFL and Mind.
Northampton Town manager Keith Curle opens up to Charlie about how he overcame alcoholism. Keith explains what he learned from his experience, and how it's made him a better person and football manager. This is the fourth of a series of chats with footballers and managers during Mental Health Awareness Week, in partnership with the EFL and Mind.
Sheffield Wednesday defender Sam Hutchinson opens up to Charlie about how he's coped with depression throughout his life and career. In a powerful discussion, Sam takes us back to his injury troubles during his Chelsea days, his return to playing after retiring aged just 21 - and shares his advice to anyone struggling. This is the fifth of a series of chats with footballers and managers during Mental Health Awareness Week, in partnership with the EFL and Mind.
American rock climber and explorer Emily Harrington opens up to Charlie about coping with her eating disorder, fuelled by the pressures of competition. Emily explains how it effected her self-worth, and shares advice for people experiencing the same habits and thought process. She also describes what it feels like to climb - including the fears she has - and how she's recovered from serious falls.
Crystal Palace footballer Amber-Keegan Stobbs opens up to Charlie about the anxiety she's experienced throughout her career. In a powerful conversation, Amber describes exactly what her panic attacks have felt like, her journey to seeking help, and shares her coping methods.
British tennis men's No 1 Dan Evans talks to Charlie about how he coped with his one-year drug ban. Dan reveals the anger he felt at the time, how talking to a sports psychologist helped him, and how he's grown as a person from the experience.
Wolves legend Carl Ikeme speaks to Charlie about his journey to recovery from Leukaemia. Carl describes how his mental strength helped him through many nights at hospital, and explains why hope is so crucial during tough moments in life.
Queens Park Rangers captain Grant Hall opens up to Charlie about how he coped with depression during his 18-month spell out with a serious knee injury. Grant describes the moment he knew he needed help, how he got through his time on the sidelines, and how he learned to trust his body again after surgery. In a powerful and open chat, Grant also explains how he's changed from the experience - and his hopes to make the most from his career and life.
Five-time Paralympic swimming champion Ellie Simmonds speaks to Charlie about the importance of mental well-being in sport and life. In an empowering conversation, Ellie opens up about motivation, self-acceptance, and explains how she's coped with tough moments in her life.
England netballer Layla Guscoth speaks to Charlie about recovering from her injury, and how she copes with uncertainty in life. Layla, who plays for the Adelaide Thunderbirds in Australia, also works as a doctor - and explains how she combines both professions. She also discusses the importance of a healthy team culture, and shares her view on Black Lives Matter.
England cricket great Kevin Pietersen opens up to Charlie about his journey in life and sport. Kevin describes what it was like to move from South Africa aged just 19 to build his England career, reveals the challenges he faced along the way...and tells Charlie about his life now, as a conversationist. He also explains why having structure and purpose in life is so crucial to help with mental health and well-being.
Leicester City defender Ryan Bennett talks to Charlie about his journey in football and his mindset in the Premier League. Ryan, who's on loan from Wolves, opens up about self-doubt, motivation, and the importance of mental well-being.
Wolves goalkeeper John Ruddy opens up to Charlie about the challenges he's faced, from starting out at Cambridge to playing in the Premier League. John reveals the moments that have shaped his path in football - including a tough spell he experienced while at Everton - and shares his ambitions for the rest of his playing career.
Harlequins captain Chris Robshaw talks to Charlie about the ups and downs of his rugby career. Chris opens up about his time as England captain, including how he coped with the disappointment of the 2015 World Cup, and shares his advice for anyone struggling.
England rugby player Courtney Lawes talks to Charlie about how his upbringing shaped his mindset, and discusses the importance of self-empowerment in society. In a wide-ranging conversation, Courtney takes us back to growing up in Northampton, the strong influence his parents had on him, and explains why understanding your emotions is crucial in life.
Australia cricket head coach Justin Langer talks to Charlie about leadership, and his journey with mental health throughout his life and career. In a powerful and candid conversation, Justin takes us back to the toughest moments in his playing career, how he got through them, and tells us the lessons he's learnt. Justin also shares his views on crowd abuse, social media - and how he'll personally judge his success as a coach.
Kirubel Gebeyehu
I really enjoyed this podcast. To hear from these athletes this level of honesty surrounding their mental health and how it has affected their lives is truly refreshing and inspiring. They are given time and space to express themselves to have what is ultimately a genuine and healing conversion. Highly recommended