In this episode, Carla Ward shares her remarkable journey—from playing football on a council estate to leading in the WSL. She reflects on the growth of women’s football, the need for investment, and why she believes the WSL is the best league in the world.

🔍 Carla also dives into:

• 🔥 Managing rivalries – Leading both Birmingham City & Aston Villa.
• 💼 Coaching philosophies – Building winning teams & developing players.
• ⚖️ Handling pressure – Managing mental fatigue & high expectations.
• 🔮 What’s next – Her future plans and the next chapter of her career.

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⏰ Timecodes ⏰

(00:00 ) Preview

(00:54 ) The Current Landscape of the WSL

(02:57 ) Early Beginnings in Torquay

(07:21 ) Becoming a Professional Manager at Sheffield United

(10:40 ) Sheffield United's Super League Application

(11:30 ) Applying and Developing Coaching Skills

(15:43 ) Departure from Sheffield United

(17:02 ) Joining Birmingham City

(20:58 ) Ownership Challenges at Birmingham

(23:10 ) Defying Expectations

(24:30 ) Receiving the Aston Villa Offer

(27:38 ) Managing Birmingham and Villa Rivalries

(29:40 ) Establishing Processes at Aston Villa

(33:13 ) Growing and Adapting in the Role

(35:39 ) Stepping Away from Villa to Focus on Family

(40:56 ) Managing Mental Fatigue in Football

(42:20 ) Planning the Next Chapter