My Sporting Mind

Wales forward Hal Robson-Kanu talks to Charlie about how he's shaped his mindset throughout his life and career. In our season 2 finale, Hal describes the pain he experienced with injuries during his early days in football, how he mentally got through those tough times - and how it inspired him to start his own Turmeric company. Hal explains why football can 'eat you up' if you're a deep thinker, and talks about the sport's mismanagement of mental health issues. He also shares his fascinating approach to coping through life's difficult moments. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, ahead of the rest with 160 years of sporting knowledge and integrity.

Crystal Palace goalkeeper Jack Butland talks to Charlie about his journey in football - and the power of acceptance. Jack opens up about the struggles he had at Stoke City, with his loss of form and confidence, and how he's found his 'mojo' again at Palace. He explains how 'everything starts with mentality', and describes how beneficial it is to acknowledge mistakes and use it as motivation. Jack also talks about the great influence Roy Hodgson has had on his career, with Roy now having left his role as Palace manager. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, providing sporting opinion, debate and analysis for over 160 years.

Monty Panesar talks to Charlie about he really felt during his England cricket career, and how he's improved his mindset. Monty - one of England's greatest-ever spin bowlers - opens up about the loneliness he experienced, why he felt like a 'fire ball' during tough moments, and how he found a healthy balance in his life. In a compelling chat, Monty also shares his advice to anyone struggling, and talks about his goals for the future. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, providing sporting opinion, debate and analysis for over 160 years. 

Britain's 12-time Grand Slam winner Jordanne Whiley talks to Charlie about her inspiring journey in tennis - and how her mindset has grown along the way. Jordanne explains how she copes with her hectic schedule and tournament pressure, and the emotions she feels when competing. She talks about how she juggles her career with being a Mum - and how family life has made her happier, and a better player. Jordanne also discusses her experience with social anxiety, the help she's got through CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy), and shares her advise for anyone struggling. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, the home of expert analysis and insight for racing, football, golf and much more.

Chelsea's Technical and Performance Advisor Petr Cech talks to Charlie about his mindset throughout his life and career. Petr - one of the Premier League's greatest-ever goalkeepers - speaks in depth about the head injury he suffered in 2006, and what he learnt on his journey to recovery. He also talks about self-discipline, the importance of listening to your body, and living with no regrets. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, ahead of the rest with 160 years of sporting knowledge and integrity.

The world's fastest Paralympian, Jason Smyth, talks to Charlie about his life and career - and his motivation ahead of his fourth Games in Tokyo. Jason, who has won five Paralympic gold medals in a remarkable, unbeaten sprinting career, opens up about his drive and mentality in the sport. He also talks about self-belief, and explains why life is really about how you overcome challenges. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com - the home of expert analysis and insight for racing, football, golf and much more.

Exeter rugby co-captain Joe Simmonds speaks to Charlie about leadership, and the incredible club culture shaped by director of rugby Rob Baxter. Joe explains his view on captaincy - why he didn't want the role at first - and how playing with his brother Sam helps drive him on. Joe - who, aged just 23, led Exeter to domestic and European glory last season - also describes the healthy atmosphere under Baxter which underpins everything the club does. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, ahead of the rest with 160 years of sporting knowledge and integrity. 

England and Lyon striker Nikita Parris talks to Charlie about how she's grown and matured both as a person and footballer. Nikita describes her journey to the top of the game, explains how important her family and friends have been, and how she's finding life in France now. She also discusses how she copes with setbacks - how she manages her inner 'chimp' - and the importance of her faith. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, expert insight, passionate opinion and in-depth analysis for the sports you love.

QPR boss Mark Warburton talks to Charlie about how working as a City trader has shaped his mentality in football management. In a wide-ranging conversation, Mark explains his journey from the City to life in the dug-out, describes how they compare, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Mark also discusses the cut-throat nature of management, how he copes with that, and talks about the pitfalls of social media. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, providing sporting opinion, debate and analysis for over 160 years.

Three-time Taekwondo world champion Bianca Walkden talks to Charlie about managing emotions, coping with nerves and doubt - and going for gold at the Tokyo Olympics. Bianca describes how she deals with the mixture of emotions at big events, and discusses how the renowned sports psychiatrist Steve Peters helps her. A hugely decorated athlete in her sport, Bianca explains why it's 'all or nothing' for her in competition, as she aims to win gold at this summer's Games. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, the home for expert analysis and insight for racing, football, golf and much more.

British sprinter Zharnel Hughes talks to Charlie about he's mentally preparing for the 100 metres at the Tokyo Olympics. Zharnel explains the huge influence of his coach Glen Mills - who also trained Usain Bolt - and describes his approach to what is the marquee event of the Games. He highlights the importance of having great people around you, discusses the value of patience - and enthuses about his love of flying planes! Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, ahead of the rest with 160 years of sporting knowledge and integrity.

Celtic and Scotland midfielder Ryan Christie talks to Charlie about managing emotions in football - and how he coped with his facial injury in 2019. Ryan describes how it felt to help Scotland secure Euro 2020 qualification after that incredible win over Serbia, and how he handled all the drama and emotion of the night. He also reflects on the tough moments in his career so far, including the horrible injury he suffered in the Scottish Cup - and how he got through it. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, ahead of the rest when it comes to unbiased opinion and sports analysis. 

Two-weight world boxing champion Carl Frampton opens up to Charlie about his mentality in sport and life. Carl - who faces American Jamel Herring in their WBO world super-featherweight bout on 3 April in Dubai - explains how he mentally approaches a big fight. He also describes how he's got over past defeats, talks about the importance of support from family and friends, and why it's so crucial to ask for help if you're struggling. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, the home of expert analysis and insight for the sports you love, and your home for the Cheltenham Festival.

British long-distance runner Jo Pavey talks to Charlie about the importance of a healthy mental health - and aiming to compete in her sixth Olympic Games! Jo describes her mindset for training, explains why it's so beneficial to have balance in life and aim to just do the best you can. She also shares her advice for younger athletes, and tips for anyone struggling. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, the home of expert analysis and insight for the sports you love, and your home for the Cheltenham Festival.

British Olympic gold medal-winning rower Moe Sbihi talks to Charlie about how he's preparing for Tokyo without his long-term coach Jurgen Grobler. Moe explains the mental impact of the departure of Grobler - who's regarded as the 'Sir Alex Ferguson of rowing' - after he stood down as British Rowing head coach last summer. Moe describes his mentality in the sport, why winning gold at the Rio Games was 'the biggest handbrake on his performance', and discusses how he gets through really tough days. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, expert insight, passionate opinion and in-depth analysis for the sports you love - all for free.

Champion flat jockey Oisin Murphy opens up to Charlie about how he's coping with his three-month racing ban. Oisin - who was given his ban for testing positive for cocaine - explains how it's effected him, and describes the key moments which have helped him get through. In a compelling conversation, Oisin talks about his struggles with sleep, how counselling sessions have helped - and shares his hopes for the future. Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, the home of expert analysis and insight for racing, and your home for the Cheltenham Festival.

British Olympic high jumper Morgan Lake talks to Charlie about how she's coping through the uncertainty of this pandemic.Morgan describes the mental strategies she uses to try to adjust to the cancellation of several events, and how she prepares for competitions - including the use of visualisation.A rising star in the British team, Morgan also explains what she learnt from a frustrating World Championships in Doha in 2019, and discusses her mentality for the Tokyo Olympics.Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com - providing sporting opinion, debate and analysis for over 160 years.

England and Gloucester rugby player Jonny May talks to Charlie about his relentless mindset.Regarded as one of the quickest and best wingers in world rugby, Jonny describes his mentality behind the incredible tries we see him score for club and country.Jonny explains why he's trying to be 'comfortable with being uncomfortable', talks about the value of acceptance, and why he believes it's healthier to choose 'persistence over perfection'.Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, ahead of the rest when it comes to unbiased opinion and sports analysis.

England and Bath rugby player Anthony Watson talks to Charlie about how he's grown his mindset during his career.Anthony explains how he got through his Achilles injury - with help from his Dad - and describes how he handles periods of nerves and doubt.He also outlines the importance and benefit of preparation - in sport and life - to help with a healthy mentality.Season 2 is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com, ahead of the rest with 160 years of sporting knowledge and integrity.

Tottenham and England defender Eric Dier kicks off season two, as he talks to Charlie about his journey and mindset in football.Eric takes us back to growing up in Portugal, explains the challenges he faced when moving to play in England, and discusses how he approaches playing in the Premier League and for the national team.He also reveals what it was like to cope through his appendicitis, how yoga helps his body and mind - and shares his advice for a healthy mentality.Season two is proudly supported by Sportinglife.com - providing sporting opinion, debate and analysis for over 160 years.

Burnley captain Ben Mee talks to Charlie about how he's grown through the toughest year of his life.Ben opens up about the premature birth of his daughter Olive during lockdown, and what he's learnt about himself since.He discusses the interview he gave around Black Lives Matter, the confidence he gained from speaking out, and shares his approach to leadership.Ben also explains why it's important to be able to make mistakes, describes the low moments in his career, and talks about why it's crucial to take that first step in reaching out for help if you're struggling.

Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster talks to Charlie about his journey in football, mental health - and his love of cycling!Ben recalls his struggles during his time at Manchester United, explains how he's grown since then, and what he's learnt in football and life.He talks about why cycling is so helpful for his physical and mental health, why it's so important to feel comfortable in your own skin - and shares his advice for anyone struggling.

Australia cricket all-rounder Ellyse Perry talks to Charlie about her journey and mindset in sport.Ellyse - who's regarded as the best cricketer of her generation - opens up about her mentality, and her view on team culture.She also talks about what keeps her balanced and grounded...such as having a practise net with her Dad!

Brighton midfielder Adam Lallana talks to Charlie about the importance of having a healthy mental health in football and life.Adam explains how he copes with injuries, how he handles the highs and lows of playing in the Premier League, and discusses the value of great leadership.He also talks about his struggle with ulcerative colitis, and shares his advice for anyone struggling.

Bellator MMA fighter Rob Whiteford talks to Charlie about his journey with mental health.In a raw and open chat, Rob describes his mindset which has shaped his path in the sport, opens up about his year out, and explains why routine is so important to him.Warning: This episode contains some strong language

England Rugby World Cup winner Amber Reed talks to Charlie about the importance of expressing how you feel.Amber describes how tough it's been to cope with injuries, and the knock-on effect they've had on her mental health.She talks about how difficult it can be to open up, but explains why it's so crucial, and shares manageable ways of reaching out for help.

Two-time World Cup winner Carli Lloyd talks to Charlie about her mindset in football and life.Carli - who's also a double Olympic gold medalist and a two-time Fifa World Player of the Year - opens up about what it's taken to become one of the USA's greatest-ever soccer stars.She talks about the challenges she's faced along the way, including her experience during the 2019 World Cup, and outlines her hopes for the future.Carli also shares her advice for anyone struggling in any walk of life.

England cricketer Kate Cross talks to Charlie about her journey with mental health.Kate opens up about what led her to take a break from cricket in 2016, how she sought help for her anxiety and depression, and how she's grown from the experience.She talks about perfectionism, how it prevented her from developing her skillset - and how she's learnt to lessen the pressure she puts on herself.

Rotherham manager Paul Warne talks to Charlie about his approach to life and football.Paul describes how much he cares for his players and staff, and explains why creating a healthy, open environment is so important.He also opens up about the stresses of football management, and what helps to give him a release, such as mountain biking, and listening to podcasts! 

Bellator MMA fighter Terry Brazier talks to Charlie about coping with post-traumatic stress disorder.In a powerful conversation, Terry opens up about his childhood traumas, serving in the Army in Afghanistan, and how it's all effected him today.He explains why he finds MMA so helpful to him now - and shares his advice for people struggling.

Triple world speed-skating champion Elise Christie opens up to Charlie about her journey in sport and life.In a powerful and candid conversation, Elise takes us back to her time at school, and what drove her into becoming one of the world's best skaters.Elise discusses the online abuse she received, the anxiety and depression she's experienced - and how she's coped through it all.She also shares her advice for anyone really struggling, including with self-harm, and talks about the importance of seeking help.

British Olympic diver Alicia Blagg opens up to Charlie about retiring from the sport aged just 23.Alicia describes the toll her injuries have had on her, and the anxiety and depression she's experienced - but also how she's coped and moved forward.She reflects on her outstanding diving career, how it felt to compete at London 2012 and Rio 2016 - and looks ahead to a new chapter in her life, in the field of forensic psychology and criminology. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.