Lead From the Side Wed, 10 Jun 2026 06:46:43 -0400 https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-from-the-side/ en © 2026 Lead From the Side yes 795f62be-bd74-5492-9da8-fbfa5710ddd5 leadfromtheside@gmail.com Spencer Kassimir episodic false When you're at the top, you need to know how to Lead from the Side.

Join host Spencer Kassimir as he interviews the biggest names in professional sport from around the world, to learn what it takes to lead from the side. 

Just as the head coach, CEO, and president of the team are not on the field when the players step into the spotlight, top leaders know how to lead from all angles.

Leading in a CRISIS? Leading during times of INNOVATION? This show provides insight into how seasoned leaders in the pressure cooker industry of sports are able to effectively influence and mobilise their teams, while achieving their goals and meeting milestones.

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal and partnered with the AFL's Western Bulldogs.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) sports, leadership, business, sport, football, rugby, rugby league, NRL, AFL, cricket, NFL, baseball, MLB Spencer Kassimir leadfromtheside@gmail.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/xw2dfy3dyi3h80wj4myg4sxv076k?.jpg Lead From the Side https://www.linkedin.com/company/lead-from-the-side/ Spencer Kassimir Rugby Football League (RFL) CEO Tony Sutton Rugby Football League (RFL) CEO Tony Sutton This weeks' episode is the Season 2 finale and features Tony Sutton who joins Spencer on the show to discuss his time as the CEO and COO at the RFL along with his other leadership positions such as:

  1. Chair of Fitmums
  2. COO of Hull College Group
  3. CEO of Hull FC
  4. Captain of my Sunday League football team

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Tony and the organizations he is associated at the RFL's various social media handles across, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn and more.

Seeing as this is the last episode of the season, I would also like to give a special shout out to J Hudson & Co, makers of ACME Whistles and other specialist whistles since 1870.  After 153 years, they're still family owned and customizing whistles across the sports industry and beyond.

You can find them online at acmewhistles.co.uk or in person at 244 Barr Street Birmingham B19 3AH.

Given this last episode was rugby league focussed, if you're interested in refereeing, make sure you get their 58.5 model!

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> This weeks' episode is the Season 2 finale and features Tony Sutton who joins Spencer on the show to discuss his time as the CEO and COO at the RFL along with his other leadership positions such as:

  1. Chair of Fitmums
  2. COO of Hull College Group
  3. CEO of Hull FC
  4. Captain of my Sunday League football team

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Tony and the organizations he is associated at the RFL's various social media handles across, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn and more.

Seeing as this is the last episode of the season, I would also like to give a special shout out to J Hudson & Co, makers of ACME Whistles and other specialist whistles since 1870.  After 153 years, they're still family owned and customizing whistles across the sports industry and beyond.

You can find them online at acmewhistles.co.uk or in person at 244 Barr Street Birmingham B19 3AH.

Given this last episode was rugby league focussed, if you're interested in refereeing, make sure you get their 58.5 model!

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13813386 Tue, 24 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +1100 1302 2 12 full false Leeds Rhinos Chief Executive Gary Hetherington Leeds Rhinos Chief Executive Gary Hetherington In this week's episode, Gary Hetherington joins Spencer on the show to discuss his time with Leeds Rhinos, the Rugby Football League (RFL), Super League, Premier Rugby League, the Leeds Building Society Foundation and beyond.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Gary and the organizations he is associated with including Leeds Rhinos across social media channels.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Gary Hetherington joins Spencer on the show to discuss his time with Leeds Rhinos, the Rugby Football League (RFL), Super League, Premier Rugby League, the Leeds Building Society Foundation and beyond.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Gary and the organizations he is associated with including Leeds Rhinos across social media channels.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13654302 Tue, 26 Sep 2023 01:00:00 +1000 1412 2 11 full false MLB Los Angeles Dodgers, Arizona Diamondbacks and Australian Olympian Trent Oeltjen MLB Los Angeles Dodgers, Arizona Diamondbacks and Australian Olympian Trent Oeltjen In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Trent Oeltjen who played in the MLB for the Arizona Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Dodgers.

He also earned an Olympic Silver Medal representing Australia & is an expert on high performance sports.

Post his playing career, Trent founded Legacy Sports an elite, wellness-first, high-performance program that holistically develops the complete athlete both on and off the field whilst preparing them to embrace all that their careers and lives at the top of their game require. 

Trent shares his personal journey as a high-performance athlete and now coach for those going up the ranks.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Trent @trentoeltjenofficial and the organizations he is associated with including Legacy Sports @lagacysports on across social media channels.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Trent Oeltjen who played in the MLB for the Arizona Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Dodgers.

He also earned an Olympic Silver Medal representing Australia & is an expert on high performance sports.

Post his playing career, Trent founded Legacy Sports an elite, wellness-first, high-performance program that holistically develops the complete athlete both on and off the field whilst preparing them to embrace all that their careers and lives at the top of their game require. 

Trent shares his personal journey as a high-performance athlete and now coach for those going up the ranks.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Trent @trentoeltjenofficial and the organizations he is associated with including Legacy Sports @lagacysports on across social media channels.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13610166 Tue, 19 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +1000 1361 2 10 full false Asia Pacific Rugby League COO and PNG Hunters Director Jeremy Edwards Asia Pacific Rugby League COO and PNG Hunters Director Jeremy Edwards In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with  Jeremy Edwards, Asia Pacific Rugby League COO and Director of PNG Hunters. 

Previously, Jeremey has held sports administration roles with the Sydney and Beijing Olympics, and most recently, the London Olympics and Paralympics as the Venue General Manager of Greenwich Park; an event which then-president of the International Olympic Committee, HRH Princess Haya, credited as the best Olympics ever for equestrian sport. Jeremy has also been employed as a sports consultant by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Nanjing, China.

Jeremy discussed what it takes to lead from the operations perspective and what his take is on the different styles of leadership.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Jeremy and the organizations he is associated with on across social media channels @asiapacificrugbyleague.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with  Jeremy Edwards, Asia Pacific Rugby League COO and Director of PNG Hunters. 

Previously, Jeremey has held sports administration roles with the Sydney and Beijing Olympics, and most recently, the London Olympics and Paralympics as the Venue General Manager of Greenwich Park; an event which then-president of the International Olympic Committee, HRH Princess Haya, credited as the best Olympics ever for equestrian sport. Jeremy has also been employed as a sports consultant by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Nanjing, China.

Jeremy discussed what it takes to lead from the operations perspective and what his take is on the different styles of leadership.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Jeremy and the organizations he is associated with on across social media channels @asiapacificrugbyleague.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13562354 Tue, 12 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +1000 1222 2 9 full false Crusaders Rugby CEO Colin Mansbridge Crusaders Rugby CEO Colin Mansbridge In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with  Colin Mansbridge, CEO of Crusaders RFC in Christchurch, NZ. He has also been the:

  1. Head of Agribusiness, Bank of New Zealand (2017)
  2. General Manager Consumer Queensland, ANZ (Brisbane) - (2010)
  3. Director & Adviser, Sacombank (Vietnam) (2007)
  4. Head of Mortgages, Bank of New Zealand (2000)
Colin discussed what it takes to lead through tough times, not only in sport but throughout his other roles in banking as well as throughout the Christchurch community in New Zealand.

He also explains that there are different styles of leadership but there has to be one thing for any of them to truly work.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Colin and the organizations he is associated with on across social media channels @crusadersrugby and #mapangomawhero.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with  Colin Mansbridge, CEO of Crusaders RFC in Christchurch, NZ. He has also been the:

  1. Head of Agribusiness, Bank of New Zealand (2017)
  2. General Manager Consumer Queensland, ANZ (Brisbane) - (2010)
  3. Director & Adviser, Sacombank (Vietnam) (2007)
  4. Head of Mortgages, Bank of New Zealand (2000)
Colin discussed what it takes to lead through tough times, not only in sport but throughout his other roles in banking as well as throughout the Christchurch community in New Zealand.

He also explains that there are different styles of leadership but there has to be one thing for any of them to truly work.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Colin and the organizations he is associated with on across social media channels @crusadersrugby and #mapangomawhero.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show or want to become a sponsor and/or partner?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Buzzsprout-13524122 Tue, 05 Sep 2023 04:00:00 +1000 1338 2 8 full false Australian Institute of Sport EGM & Director Matti Clements Australian Institute of Sport EGM & Director Matti Clements In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Matti Clements.  She is currently the EGM and Director at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS).

There, she was also the: 
-Acting Chief Executive Officer,
-People Development and Wellbeing, Director and
-Deputy Director Athlete Wellbeing and Engagement
 
Previously, she also was the
-Director and Senior Psychologist of Mental Edge Consulting and other roles at the AFL and AFL Players Association.
 
 

Matti discusses her leadership history and what brought her from being a psychologist to a leader in the sports industry.

She also provides insights into what that transition is like and where she feels there is space to grow effective leadership and increase the positive impact that such roles can make.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Matti and the organizations she is associated with on Twitter @theAIS and other social media channels.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Matti Clements.  She is currently the EGM and Director at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS).

There, she was also the: 
-Acting Chief Executive Officer,
-People Development and Wellbeing, Director and
-Deputy Director Athlete Wellbeing and Engagement
 
Previously, she also was the
-Director and Senior Psychologist of Mental Edge Consulting and other roles at the AFL and AFL Players Association.
 
 

Matti discusses her leadership history and what brought her from being a psychologist to a leader in the sports industry.

She also provides insights into what that transition is like and where she feels there is space to grow effective leadership and increase the positive impact that such roles can make.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Matti and the organizations she is associated with on Twitter @theAIS and other social media channels.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13480824 Tue, 29 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +1000 1261 2 7 full false British Cycling (frmr RLWC) Chief Executive Jon Dutton OBE British Cycling (frmr RLWC) Chief Executive Jon Dutton OBE In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Jon Dutton OBE.  He is currently Chief Executive of British Cycling and has been:

·      Director of Cycling World Championships 2023
·      Major Events Panel Member, UK Sport
·      Chief Executive, Rugby League World Cup 2021, 
·      Tournament Commissioner RLWC2017 and 
·      Chief Operating Officer RLWC2013.

Jon discusses his leadership experience as well as the cultural differences in running organizations with such different backgrounds and followers.

He also lends insight in what it was like to lead RLWC through the lockdowns and the what the process was like in making the right decisions in such a difficult situation.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Jon and the organizations he’s currently involved with @jon_dutton72 and @britishcycling on Twitter and other social media channels.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Jon Dutton OBE.  He is currently Chief Executive of British Cycling and has been:

·      Director of Cycling World Championships 2023
·      Major Events Panel Member, UK Sport
·      Chief Executive, Rugby League World Cup 2021, 
·      Tournament Commissioner RLWC2017 and 
·      Chief Operating Officer RLWC2013.

Jon discusses his leadership experience as well as the cultural differences in running organizations with such different backgrounds and followers.

He also lends insight in what it was like to lead RLWC through the lockdowns and the what the process was like in making the right decisions in such a difficult situation.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Jon and the organizations he’s currently involved with @jon_dutton72 and @britishcycling on Twitter and other social media channels.

Do you have an idea for a show guest or ideas for the show?  Get in touch via the channels below!

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13439251 Mon, 21 Aug 2023 11:00:00 +1000 1249 2 6 full false Melbourne Storm CEO Justin Rodski Melbourne Storm CEO Justin Rodski In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Justin Rodski, CEO of Melbourne Storm rugby league football club.  In his extensive career, he has also been:

Chief Commercial Officer, Chief Customer Officer, and Chief Marketing Officer while at Essendon Bombers FC as well as a producer and journalist both at the Australian Football League (AFL) and Channel 9.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Justin and and the organizations he’s currently involved with @storm on various social media platforms.

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Justin Rodski, CEO of Melbourne Storm rugby league football club.  In his extensive career, he has also been:

Chief Commercial Officer, Chief Customer Officer, and Chief Marketing Officer while at Essendon Bombers FC as well as a producer and journalist both at the Australian Football League (AFL) and Channel 9.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Justin and and the organizations he’s currently involved with @storm on various social media platforms.

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13401186 Tue, 15 Aug 2023 01:00:00 +1000 1396 2 5 full false Melbourne Ice's Chair Peter Jon Harshorne and Head Coach Kerry Goulet Melbourne Ice's Chair Peter Jon Harshorne and Head Coach Kerry Goulet In this week's episode, an Englishman (PJ Harshorne), a Canadian (Kerry Goulet), and an American etc (Spencer Kassimir) sit down in Australia to talk ice hockey.

Sounds like the beginning of a joke but today it is the forum for a fantastically insightful conversation about their leadership at Melbourne Ice and, inherently, internationalism in the world of sport.

PJ Harshorne is and has been in such leadership roles as:
-Chairman of Melbourne Ice
-Chair of the Australian Ice Hockey League
-Chair of Softball Australia
-Director of Kidney Health Australia and
-Director of the Infinity Group

Kerry Goulet is the head coach of Melbourne Ice and has experience as a:
-Player/Captain of pro ice hockey teams
-Player/Coach of pro ice hockey teams
-Coach/General Manager of Pro Ice Hockey teams
-Global Director of StopConcussions, Kerry’s Kids, Connected Mental Health Charities
-Global Director of Ice Hockey Classic
-Global director of Tour of Hope and
-Host of Gouche Live Hockey Talk

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Melbourne Ice, PJ, and Kerry on many of your favorite social media platforms!

You can reach the show or Spencer at:
Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, an Englishman (PJ Harshorne), a Canadian (Kerry Goulet), and an American etc (Spencer Kassimir) sit down in Australia to talk ice hockey.

Sounds like the beginning of a joke but today it is the forum for a fantastically insightful conversation about their leadership at Melbourne Ice and, inherently, internationalism in the world of sport.

PJ Harshorne is and has been in such leadership roles as:
-Chairman of Melbourne Ice
-Chair of the Australian Ice Hockey League
-Chair of Softball Australia
-Director of Kidney Health Australia and
-Director of the Infinity Group

Kerry Goulet is the head coach of Melbourne Ice and has experience as a:
-Player/Captain of pro ice hockey teams
-Player/Coach of pro ice hockey teams
-Coach/General Manager of Pro Ice Hockey teams
-Global Director of StopConcussions, Kerry’s Kids, Connected Mental Health Charities
-Global Director of Ice Hockey Classic
-Global director of Tour of Hope and
-Host of Gouche Live Hockey Talk

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Melbourne Ice, PJ, and Kerry on many of your favorite social media platforms!

You can reach the show or Spencer at:
Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13360691 Tue, 08 Aug 2023 01:00:00 +1000 1434 2 4 full false Rugby Football League (RFL) Chair Simon Johnson Rugby Football League (RFL) Chair Simon Johnson In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Simon Johnson, Chair of the Rugby Football League (RFL) in England.  In his extensive career, he has also been:

  • Director of Corporate Affairs - The FA
  • COO, England 2018
  • Board Member, Swim England
  • Board Member, International Rugby League 

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Simon and the organizations he’s currently involved with @sjrbsimon, @therfl, and @sisltd.

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.




]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Simon Johnson, Chair of the Rugby Football League (RFL) in England.  In his extensive career, he has also been:

  • Director of Corporate Affairs - The FA
  • COO, England 2018
  • Board Member, Swim England
  • Board Member, International Rugby League 

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

You can follow Simon and the organizations he’s currently involved with @sjrbsimon, @therfl, and @sisltd.

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.




]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13318502 Tue, 01 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +1000 1295 2 3 full false Family of League (formerly Men of League) Chair Helen Wood Grant Family of League (formerly Men of League) Chair Helen Wood Grant In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Family of League (formerly Men of League) Chair, Helen Wood Grant who's extensive leadership career spans from the sports world and beyond.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

Guest Details-
Website: familyofleague.org.au
Twitter: @familyofleague
LinkedIn and other social media: Family of League

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Family of League (formerly Men of League) Chair, Helen Wood Grant who's extensive leadership career spans from the sports world and beyond.

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

Guest Details-
Website: familyofleague.org.au
Twitter: @familyofleague
LinkedIn and other social media: Family of League

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13269873 Tue, 25 Jul 2023 01:00:00 +1000 1327 2 2 full false Western Bulldogs AFL Grand Final Winning Captain Easton Wood Western Bulldogs AFL Grand Final Winning Captain Easton Wood In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with the AFL Western Bulldogs' 2016 Grand Final Captain Easton Wood., After being drafted in 2007, he made his AFL debut in 2009, and further consolidating his place in the team in 2010. Since then he had a decorated football career.  2015 Charles Sutton Medal winner, the Club’s best and fairest, Premiership player and captain of the side in 2016 Grand Final, Full-time Captain of the Western Bulldogs 2018-2019 Season, and an All-Australian (2015), a two-time Australian International Rules Series representative (2011, 2015).

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with the AFL Western Bulldogs' 2016 Grand Final Captain Easton Wood., After being drafted in 2007, he made his AFL debut in 2009, and further consolidating his place in the team in 2010. Since then he had a decorated football career.  2015 Charles Sutton Medal winner, the Club’s best and fairest, Premiership player and captain of the side in 2016 Grand Final, Full-time Captain of the Western Bulldogs 2018-2019 Season, and an All-Australian (2015), a two-time Australian International Rules Series representative (2011, 2015).

This show is made in partnership Performance Leadership, a co-venture of Western Bulldogs and Victoria University.

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide
This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.
See https://www.buzzsprout.com/privacy/ for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir Buzzsprout-13236542 Tue, 18 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +1000 1399 2 1 full false NRL Head of Football Graham Annesley Revisited NRL Head of Football Graham Annesley Revisited In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Graham Annesley, currently the head of elite football operations for the NRL (National Rugby League), a former chief executive officer of the Gold Coast Titans, chief operating officer of the NRL and a leading rugby league referee. Graham was a former member of politician in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly representing Miranda and was the Minister for Sport and Recreation from 2011-2013.

0:45 - NRL rule changes
1:30 - Scrum chat
2:50 - What he's up to
3:30 - International opportunities
5:10 - Maintaining the talent pool
6:45 - His umpiring journey and beyond
10:30 - Differences and similarities between fields
13:35 - Innovations in his career
16:10 - Hurdles
18:50 - COVID adjustments
20:10 - Business and life advice

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has talks with Graham Annesley, currently the head of elite football operations for the NRL (National Rugby League), a former chief executive officer of the Gold Coast Titans, chief operating officer of the NRL and a leading rugby league referee. Graham was a former member of politician in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly representing Miranda and was the Minister for Sport and Recreation from 2011-2013.

0:45 - NRL rule changes
1:30 - Scrum chat
2:50 - What he's up to
3:30 - International opportunities
5:10 - Maintaining the talent pool
6:45 - His umpiring journey and beyond
10:30 - Differences and similarities between fields
13:35 - Innovations in his career
16:10 - Hurdles
18:50 - COVID adjustments
20:10 - Business and life advice

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir 7bb0fb44-1214-43e5-b366-b03c007fb025 Tue, 11 Jul 2023 17:54:41 +1000 1328 1 6 full false NBL CEO David Stevenson Revisited NBL CEO David Stevenson Revisited David Stevenson is the CEO of the NBL Spencer, however at the time of this interview, David was GM of Operations at the AFL (Australian Football League). In this unique interview, Spencer talks to David about the importance of great leadership and the impact it has had on his career. 

Previously, Stevenson was the CEO of Western Bulldogs and had a 17 year career across the world at Nike. Starting at the AFL HQ roughly five years ago as the GM of China, India and AFLX, he then became GM of China and India, Head of Audiences as well as Products & Integration with his most recent position being GM of Operations.

0:45 - AFL and AFLW season primers
1:50 - AFLW and associated cultural shift
2:35 - Festival of football
3:45 - The importance of the live game
4:55 - His past experience leveraged to innovate in the AFL
8:00 - AFL's geographic identity
9:30 - Listening to the consumer
10:35 - His time at Nike
13:15 - Psychology of winning and losing
14:40 - Tenure vs fresh eyes
16:40 - AFL State and interstate identities
18:30 - Hurdles and business advice

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> David Stevenson is the CEO of the NBL Spencer, however at the time of this interview, David was GM of Operations at the AFL (Australian Football League). In this unique interview, Spencer talks to David about the importance of great leadership and the impact it has had on his career. 

Previously, Stevenson was the CEO of Western Bulldogs and had a 17 year career across the world at Nike. Starting at the AFL HQ roughly five years ago as the GM of China, India and AFLX, he then became GM of China and India, Head of Audiences as well as Products & Integration with his most recent position being GM of Operations.

0:45 - AFL and AFLW season primers
1:50 - AFLW and associated cultural shift
2:35 - Festival of football
3:45 - The importance of the live game
4:55 - His past experience leveraged to innovate in the AFL
8:00 - AFL's geographic identity
9:30 - Listening to the consumer
10:35 - His time at Nike
13:15 - Psychology of winning and losing
14:40 - Tenure vs fresh eyes
16:40 - AFL State and interstate identities
18:30 - Hurdles and business advice

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir b9ef24c4-722e-4041-9ec7-b02800b6bf5b Tue, 04 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +1000 1289 1 5 full false AFL, NFL, and first Super Bowl Australian Ben Graham Revisited AFL, NFL, and first Super Bowl Australian Ben Graham Revisited In this week's episode, Spencer has an in-depth conversation with the first Australian to ever play in the Super Bowl, Ben Graham. Talking from his home base in Geelong, we discuss Graham's transitions, innovations and hurdles from his time playing for the AFL's Geelong Cats and then playing in the NFL for the New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals and then Detroit Lions.

Follow Ben on Twitter @BenGraham7 

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> In this week's episode, Spencer has an in-depth conversation with the first Australian to ever play in the Super Bowl, Ben Graham. Talking from his home base in Geelong, we discuss Graham's transitions, innovations and hurdles from his time playing for the AFL's Geelong Cats and then playing in the NFL for the New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals and then Detroit Lions.

Follow Ben on Twitter @BenGraham7 

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir d251e853-13a7-44cc-be24-b02800b7bc1e Tue, 27 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +1000 1250 1 4 full false Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans Revisited Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans Revisited In this episode, we chat about leadership in an in depth interview featuring current Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans. 

Marks previous roles include Director of Rugby at Saracens FC; CEO of Harlequins FC (during the London Broncos/Harlequins RLFC effort); CEO of Melbourne Storm; Chairman of Vitality Netball Super League and CEO of Global Rapid Rugby.

Mark also played first XVs for Saracens FC and was their forwards coach.

In this episode, we discuss Mark's story on pivoting from player to coach and then administrator, as well as how he has adjusted his leadership tactics to suit the culture he would be moving into across multiple sports and countries. Mark shares valuable insight into his personal failed attempts along with successes.

0:40 - The beginning: transition from player to today
1:40 - The early days of pro rugby
2:35 - Several codes and their markets, and growth opportunities
8:45 - His time at the Harlequins and Broncos
10:30 - Market expansion possibilities and challenges
12:30 - Biggest Innovation
15:00 - Biggest failed attempt
16:10 - Cultural differences between codes and countries
18:00 - What's going on, and business advice

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> In this episode, we chat about leadership in an in depth interview featuring current Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans. 

Marks previous roles include Director of Rugby at Saracens FC; CEO of Harlequins FC (during the London Broncos/Harlequins RLFC effort); CEO of Melbourne Storm; Chairman of Vitality Netball Super League and CEO of Global Rapid Rugby.

Mark also played first XVs for Saracens FC and was their forwards coach.

In this episode, we discuss Mark's story on pivoting from player to coach and then administrator, as well as how he has adjusted his leadership tactics to suit the culture he would be moving into across multiple sports and countries. Mark shares valuable insight into his personal failed attempts along with successes.

0:40 - The beginning: transition from player to today
1:40 - The early days of pro rugby
2:35 - Several codes and their markets, and growth opportunities
8:45 - His time at the Harlequins and Broncos
10:30 - Market expansion possibilities and challenges
12:30 - Biggest Innovation
15:00 - Biggest failed attempt
16:10 - Cultural differences between codes and countries
18:00 - What's going on, and business advice

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir a2bd52f5-29fc-4ad1-a919-b014002119eb Tue, 20 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +1000 1205 1 3 full false CEO of Sport NZ & High Performance NZ Raelene Castle Revisited CEO of Sport NZ & High Performance NZ Raelene Castle Revisited This week we chat about the trials and tribulations of leadership in an in-depth interview with Raelene Castle, CEO of Sport New Zealand & High Performance Sport New Zealand. Previously, Castle was the CEO Rugby Australia, the NRL club Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, and Netball New Zealand.

Raelene discusses what she’s been up to, how to attract and retain talent, how she got started and how she’s responded to public criticism throughout her various executive roles in both Australia and New Zealand.

0:40 - What's new with Raelene?
1:50 - How to retain/attract talent with more sports for competition
3:05 - Raelene'e start
4:50 - AUS/NZ Netball partnership, and dissolution (6:00)
7:15 - Netball's unique identity
9:15 - Her time in the NRL
11:05 - Her response to public criticism
12:45 - Cultural innovation in the domestic violence space at the club
14:20 - Her time at Rugby Australia
15:30 - Going home to NZ
17:15 - Toughest hurdle to overcome
18:45 - Advice she would have wanted sooner

  • Time stamps are approximate

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> This week we chat about the trials and tribulations of leadership in an in-depth interview with Raelene Castle, CEO of Sport New Zealand & High Performance Sport New Zealand. Previously, Castle was the CEO Rugby Australia, the NRL club Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, and Netball New Zealand.

Raelene discusses what she’s been up to, how to attract and retain talent, how she got started and how she’s responded to public criticism throughout her various executive roles in both Australia and New Zealand.

0:40 - What's new with Raelene?
1:50 - How to retain/attract talent with more sports for competition
3:05 - Raelene'e start
4:50 - AUS/NZ Netball partnership, and dissolution (6:00)
7:15 - Netball's unique identity
9:15 - Her time in the NRL
11:05 - Her response to public criticism
12:45 - Cultural innovation in the domestic violence space at the club
14:20 - Her time at Rugby Australia
15:30 - Going home to NZ
17:15 - Toughest hurdle to overcome
18:45 - Advice she would have wanted sooner

  • Time stamps are approximate

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir df6da123-ef97-4bad-bafb-b01400201354 Tue, 13 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +1000 1251 1 2 full false RL Super Coach Roy Masters and Melbourne Storm GM Frank Ponissi Revisited RL Super Coach Roy Masters and Melbourne Storm GM Frank Ponissi Revisited We're here to chat about leadership in an in depth interview about the NRL, Rugby League and a whole lot more with Super Coach Roy Masters and Melbourne Storm GM Frank Ponissi.

Masters is the former coach of the Western Suburbs Magpies where he is named Coach of the Century and St George Dragons where he is their longest serving coach. Since 1988, he has also been a columnist for the Sydney Morning Herald an ASC board member for a record 23 years.

Ponissi is on his 16th season with Melbourne Storm and spent five seasons previously overseas in rugby union out in Europe and South Africa. He also spent nine seasons with Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles in various coaching roles and was on the 1994 Kangaroos Tour as well as 1995 World Cup Tour on the Coaching Staff.

0:40 - The beginning: transition from player to today
1:40 - The early days of pro rugby
2:35 - Several codes and their markets, and growth opportunities
8:45 - His time at the Harlequins and Broncos
10:30 - Market expansion possibilities and challenges
12:30 - Biggest Innovation
15:00 - Biggest failed attempt
16:10 - Cultural differences between codes and countries
18:00 - What's going on, and business advice

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> We're here to chat about leadership in an in depth interview about the NRL, Rugby League and a whole lot more with Super Coach Roy Masters and Melbourne Storm GM Frank Ponissi.

Masters is the former coach of the Western Suburbs Magpies where he is named Coach of the Century and St George Dragons where he is their longest serving coach. Since 1988, he has also been a columnist for the Sydney Morning Herald an ASC board member for a record 23 years.

Ponissi is on his 16th season with Melbourne Storm and spent five seasons previously overseas in rugby union out in Europe and South Africa. He also spent nine seasons with Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles in various coaching roles and was on the 1994 Kangaroos Tour as well as 1995 World Cup Tour on the Coaching Staff.

0:40 - The beginning: transition from player to today
1:40 - The early days of pro rugby
2:35 - Several codes and their markets, and growth opportunities
8:45 - His time at the Harlequins and Broncos
10:30 - Market expansion possibilities and challenges
12:30 - Biggest Innovation
15:00 - Biggest failed attempt
16:10 - Cultural differences between codes and countries
18:00 - What's going on, and business advice

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside
Linked In: Lead From the Side
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir ff670573-b9b8-486d-b466-b014001e6827 Tue, 06 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +1000 1176 1 1 full false Lead From The Side - The Trailer Lead From The Side - The Trailer When you're at the top, you need to know how to lead from the side.

Join host Spencer Kassimir as he interviews the biggest names in Australian sport, to learn what it takes to lead from the side. 

Leading in a CRISIS? Leading during times of INNOVATION? This show provides insight into how seasoned leaders in the pressure cooker industry of sports are able to effectively influence and mobilise their teams, while achieving their goals and meeting milestones.

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside 
Linked In: Lead From the Side 
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> When you're at the top, you need to know how to lead from the side.

Join host Spencer Kassimir as he interviews the biggest names in Australian sport, to learn what it takes to lead from the side. 

Leading in a CRISIS? Leading during times of INNOVATION? This show provides insight into how seasoned leaders in the pressure cooker industry of sports are able to effectively influence and mobilise their teams, while achieving their goals and meeting milestones.

Email: leadfromtheside@gmail.com
Twitter: @BallsOutPhD, @leadfromtheside 
Linked In: Lead From the Side 
YouTube: @LeadFromTheSide

This podcast is produced by Spencer Kassimir, edited by Ryan Marshal.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

]]> Spencer Kassimir 2d703cd5-d3ce-4084-a35e-afd900619fa2 Mon, 03 Apr 2023 17:54:21 +1000 100 false