Behind the Boots

Episode 15. Fernando explains his teachings of gratitude and sacrifice for his sons to succeed in football and life

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Fernando is a proud father from Colombia whose two sons are excelling in the world of youth football. One is a Premier League academy goalkeeper, while the younger son is training to be a referee.

Fernando shares how his cultural values of work ethic and commitment have influenced his son's passion for the game.

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Episode 14. "Your son or daughter's obsession with the game has to surpass yours."

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The honesty and self-awareness of Anayo father of a talented youngest who played at top UK academies, openly shared his challenges, acknowledging his role in the difficulties which undoubtly impacted his son's progression. Listen to his moments of self-reflection as he admits to placing excessive pressure on his son and overstepping boundaries with the academy staff and rules.

This episode offers a powerful insight into the importance of balance when navigating the youth football journey and admire Anayo's courage in sharing his story.

Episode 13. "Rejected by Chelsea, rejected by Watford, rejected by QPR, he was about to train as a gardener" say Jim & Sue, parents of Chris Mepham

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0100

Jim and Sue Mepham, the proud parents of professional footballer Chris Mepham at Bournemouth FC. Here we explore their remarkable journey of how his parents supported Chris through the highs and lows of the industry. Constant setbacks almost led him to train as a gardener with his uncle, but with some extra encouragement from his mum Sue, he was willing to give it one last go.

This episode really tunes into not only the physical, logistical, financial challenges of parents supporting the youth football journey but also the mental ones which we rarely hear about. A beautiful account from a humble and dedicated family.

Episode 12. Alain & Vanessa parents who foster a winning mindset in football

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 16:00:00 +0100

"Facing a football club, we were a little bit lost and a little naive".

Vanessa and Alain went above and beyond to learn to develop a champion mentality. Like many, they've supported their son through the highs and lows of youth football, but despite challenges like their son's injuries and living away from home, they remained steadfast in their support, creating a positive environment for their son to thrive.

Their positivity and unwavering commitment to their son's success are truly inspiring.

Episode 11. The power of emotional control: Bola's lessons for parents from a Premier League Academy

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 19:00:00 +0100

“I’m so sorry that I did that and I promise that will never happen again - from me”

In this episode, we talk to Bola Ranson, whose son is a goalkeeper at a premier league academy. Through success at Arsenal, England call-ups, education, day-release, extra coaching, siblings and identity - Bola generously and honestly covered it all! His openness, down-to-earth attitude and appreciation of football as a business has helped keep their feet on the ground.

What we really loved in this episode is hearing how Bola consciously supports the inner game and tries to keep it positive. He emphasises how big emotions can add unnecessary pressure, and developing a strong mindset in his son is not easy - but essential.

Bola's humility, willingness to learn and general wellbeing really shines through and we were so inspired by his mindset. This episode really brings home the power of enjoying the journey and how that will help you handle the inevitable highs and lows. It's all about finding your balance. We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did!

Episode 10. Les, father of Premier League star Emile Smith Rowe, shares his invaluable insights that every parent should know...

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 13:00:00 +0100

"There was a time he wanted to give the game up, the pressure was immense..."

Welcome to the Behind the Boots parent podcast episode featuring a truly inspiring guest, Les Smith-Rowe, the father of Arsenal's talented footballer, Emile Smith-Rowe. Join us as we dive into the untold stories of raising a Premier League player straight from the source.

In this episode, Les opens up about the vital aspects of navigating the football world, sharing invaluable insights that every parent should know. He candidly discusses Emile's struggles as a youth player, including moments where he contemplated quitting. Les also sheds light on the importance of ensuring that siblings are not left behind on this remarkable journey and addresses the common questions asked by parents who aspire to nurture their child's football dreams.

This episode is a goldmine of wisdom and first-hand experiences. Don't miss out on the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of raising a Premier League player. Get ready for an episode that will leave you inspired and enlightened. Tune in now!

Episode 9. Liliana and Mikey's Parent Football Journey - Tales of Resilience Through Injuries and Triumphs

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 18:00:00 +0100

"Football is something, but it's not who your child is".

Liliana and Mikey share their stories of supporting their three sons, two in football and one in the music industry. Mikey's experience as a world-famous musician from the 80s band Culture Club gives him unique insight into the journey of success in demanding industries.

Together they share their experiences of navigating injuries, success in the MLS, and how life after football has worked out for the best.

Episode 8. Troy Townsend's Eye-Opening Insights on The Realities of Youth Football

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 11:00:00 +0100

"Parents have got to reflect on what comes out of their mouths."

Get ready for an eye-opening episode of Behind the Boots! Join us as we speak with Troy Townsend, a seasoned professional in the football industry.

From his own playing career to coaching and his current role as Head of Development at Kick It Out, Troy has a wealth of experience and insights to share. As the father of professional footballer Andros Townsend, he's experienced the industry's joys, triumphs, and challenges firsthand. In this candid interview, Troy opens up about the highs and lows his family has faced and offers invaluable wisdom for those navigating the youth football scene.

Don't miss out on this must-watch episode filled with invaluable advice for success in youth football. Tune in now to hear Troy's powerful story and insights.

Episode 7. This journey is not for the fainthearted

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we talked to Emma and Brad, parents with four boys navigating the world of youth football within an elite academy.

They share their experiences, insights, and wisdom on how they manage crazy schedules and logistics and manage to stay positive throughout the journey.

This was such a fun, honest conversation which we are sure you will enjoy.

Episode 5. Trusting the Process: A Story of Nurturing a Son's Football Dream

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 10:00:00 +0100

"Nobody gives you a textbook to tell you how to support them"

Sarah and Steve Morris are the ultimate support team for their son, James Morris, who spent over a decade at his Dad’s boyhood football club.

In this podcast episode, they talked about stepping back, trusting the academy process, and standing by all the decisions they made. They navigated some very challenging times but always knew their son had the dedication, commitment and resilience to continue on the journey of fulfilling his dream.

Episode 6. Eddie Gray's Sideline Thoughts on Coaching and Parenting in Football

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 12:00:00 +0100

"I didn't say a word"

Eddie Gray MBE, former Scottish international, iconic Leeds player and ex-Leeds Manager, shares his wisdom from his own journey as a player, manager, parent, and great-uncle to Archie Gray, up and coming youngster also playing at Leeds United.

What treat it was to enjoy the wisdom of such an experienced player, industry professional and parent. We talked about how different parent support looked like in his early years.

This was a trip down memory lane with a legend. Enjoy!

Episode 4. Inspiring and eye-opening: A mother's journey with two sons in a Premier League Academy

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0100

"No child should hear that..."

In this "Behind the Boots" episode, we talk to mum, Alejandra, who raised two sons as they trained at a Premier League academy for over a decade. Now playing professionally in Europe, Alejandra shares the challenges and why she believes the football industry needs to improve.

Drawing from her background as a psychologist, Alejandra emphasises the significance of sparing children from unnecessary stress. She highlights the importance of parents choosing to support their child's journey wholeheartedly, free from resentment.

With a fresh and enlightened outlook, she successfully navigated the intricate landscape of youth football, recognising the adverse effects of undue pressure on both the child and the parent.

Tune in to hear her inspiring journey and message for change.

Episode 3. Kenny Brown, West Ham Academy Manager on Navigating Adversity and Building Resilience in Youth Football

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0100

"If you're a parent, we've already gone through loads of adversity"

Kenny Brown is Academy Manager at West Ham, a former-professional player, Coach, Manager and dad to two sons involved in youth football.

Kenny is funny and relatable, and there is not much he does not know about success in this game! He generously gives us much food for thought as parents navigating youth football. We loved how he gives credit and hope to those players and families in grassroots football.

Episode 2. Raising a Lioness: Georgia Stanway's Mum Joanne On Raising An Elite Footballer

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0100

"I made a decision to enjoy it"

Joanne Stanley, mum to Lioness Georgia Stanway, was there when they finally brought it home in Wembley. After talking to Joanne, we can see where Georgia got her passion and determination to succeed in sports... The journey that the family went through and the sacrifices Mum made were incredible. And it wasn't through hope of big money - just passion and LOVE.

Episode 1. Lessons from the sidelines: Alex Iwobi's Dad Chuka shares parenting wisdom and football success

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0100

"It was a rough journey, but would I do it again? 100% yes!"

Step into the world of Chuka Iwobi, the father of Premier League player Alex Iwobi, in this captivating episode of Behind the Boots. Discover how Alex's determination, work ethic, and a stroke of luck propelled him from the Arsenal academy to their first team, defying the odds along the way.

Chuka shares insights into Alex's humility, versatility, and positive attitude that have shaped him both on and off the field. Get ready for an emotional ride as Chuka recounts witnessing his son face off against footballing legends like Messi and Neymar. Plus, hear his thought-provoking views on the youth football industry. Don't miss this unforgettable interview filled with inspiring nuggets. Tune in now!