Share
A LOAD OF BS ON SPORT
Nigel Owens: Raw Honesty, Rural Roots & Rugby Rulings.
•
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of "A Load of BS on Sport," we sit down with the legendary Nigel Owens. From his humble beginnings in a small Welsh village, where English was a second language, to becoming one of rugby's most respected referees, Nigel's journey is one of resilience and raw honesty. He opens up about the challenges of officiating high-stakes matches, his candid views on the TMO's impact on the game, and the importance of earned respect on the field.
Beyond the rugby pitch, Nigel shares his deeply personal struggles with his sexuality, the isolating experience of growing up in a time of prejudice, and his battle with bulimia and depression. In a moment of profound vulnerability, he recounts his near-fatal attempt to take his own life, a stark reminder of the internal conflicts he faced.
Nigel's story is a testament to the power of self-acceptance and the importance of being true to oneself. He offers invaluable advice to young people facing similar challenges, emphasising the importance of happiness and self-pride. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, honesty, and a deeper understanding of the man behind the whistle. Join us as we explore the rural roots, rugby rulings, and raw honesty of Nigel Owens.
If you found Nigel's story as moving and insightful as we did, please subscribe to "A Load of BS on Sport" on your favorite podcast platform. Your subscription helps us bring you more compelling conversations like this one. Don't forget to share this episode with your friends and family – Nigel's message of resilience and self-acceptance is one that everyone needs to hear. Thank you for listening!
We understand that Nigel's candid discussion of mental health challenges, including depression and suicidal thoughts, may resonate with some of our listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember that you're not alone and help is available. We encourage you to reach out to the following organisations for support:
UK & Ireland Support Resources:
- Samaritans (UK & Ireland):Provides confidential emotional support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair.
- Phone: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
- Website: www.samaritans.org
- Mind (UK):Offers information and support for anyone experiencing a mental health problem.
- Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm)
- Website: www.mind.org.uk
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) (UK):Specifically targets men who are struggling with their mental health.
- Phone: 0800 58 58 58 (daily, 5 pm to midnight)
- Website: www.thecalmzone.net
- Pieta (Ireland):Provides free therapy to those engaging in self-harm, those with suicidal ideation, or those bereaved by suicide.
- Phone: 01 628 2111
- Website: www.pieta.ie
- Aware (Ireland):provides support and information for people who experience depression and bipolar disorder.
- Website: www.aware.ie
- LGBT Foundation (UK):Provides support and information for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Phone: 0345 3 30 30 30
- Website: lgbt.foundation
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are people who care and want to support you. Please reach out if you need it.
More episodes
View all episodes
Dan Biggar: Retirement Special
01:12:42|This week on A Load of BS on Sport is extra special - we're celebrating our co-host Dan Biggar's incredible 19-year professional rugby career as he officially hangs up his boots.In this deeply personal episode, Daniel Ross sits down with Dan for an intimate conversation about retirement, legacy, and what comes next. This isn't just another rugby retrospective - it's a candid, warm chat between friends as Dan reflects on transitioning from professional sport to the "muggle world" beyond.The episode features wonderful surprise messages and tributes from family, friends, teammates, and rugby legends who share memories of playing alongside one of Wales' most determined competitors. These heartfelt contributions reveal a player respected not just for talent, but for character and work ethic.Dan opens up about the realities of retirement (spoiler: it's busier than expected!), missing daily banter with teammates, and planning his next chapter with the Sports Business Syndicate. From discussing rugby's future and balancing tradition with modernisation, to reflecting on rivalries that shaped his career, Dan's honesty and humour shine through.Episode Highlights:Honest reflections on retiring from elite sportSurprise tributes from rugby legends and teammatesThe future of rugby union and attracting younger audiencesMissing the irreplaceable changing room camaraderieLife in France and expanding French beyond line-out callsBuilding team culture and defining success beyond winsFamily support throughout his career journeyLooking ahead to business opportunities and new adventuresMemorable Quote: "Retirement is like leaving Hogwarts - you've been living the dream and now you're back in the muggle world."A heartfelt farewell to one of rugby's most respected competitors and warm welcome to his next chapter.If you enjoyed this celebration of Dan's remarkable career, please like, comment and subscribe. To learn more about the Sports Business Syndicate (SBS) that Dan mentions, visit www.sportsbusinesssyndicate.com or search for Sports Business Syndicate on LinkedIn.
Sam Warburton: Leadership, Lions & Legacy
01:15:01|This week on A Load of BS on Sport, Daniel Ross and Dan Biggar sit down with rugby legend Sam Warburton - two-time British & Irish Lions captain and former Wales captain who led from the front for over a decade at the highest level.In this deeply personal and revealing conversation, Sam opens up about the psychological realities behind elite captaincy, sharing his unique "Four P's" leadership framework that guided him through some of rugby's biggest moments. From leading legends like Brian O'Driscoll and Paul O'Connell on Lions tours to managing his own crippling self-doubt, Sam reveals the mental strategies that made him one of rugby's most respected leaders.This isn't your typical "glory days" rugby chat. Sam candidly discusses why he only enjoyed 20% of his career, the obsessive attention to detail that drove his success (including a chocolate drawer with rival players' names), and the relief he felt upon retirement. He shares fascinating insights into the delegation principles that made his captaincy so effective, why he surrounded himself with strong personalities rather than yes-men, and how sports psychology shaped his entire approach to leadership.From the pressures of captaining the Lions at just 24 to finding freedom in life after rugby, Sam's honesty about the darker sides of elite sport makes this essential listening for anyone interested in leadership, performance psychology, or the real cost of sporting excellence.Episode Highlights:The "Four P's" leadership framework that guided his captaincyWhy he only enjoyed 20% of his professional careerLeading rugby legends on two Lions toursThe psychology behind his famous self-doubtHis obsessive preparation methods and attention to detailThe committee system that made Wales so successfulLife after rugby and the freedom of retirementWhy strong leaders surround themselves with challengers, not yes-menThe role of sports psychology in elite performanceHonest reflections on imposter syndrome at the highest levelMemorable Quotes"Weak leaders love weak people around them... strong leaders actually get really challenging, good people around them.""I doubt myself because I trust myself.""The 20% of success outweighs the 80% tenfold.""When you retire from rugby, you might finish playing the game, but you don't leave the game.""Lions don't worry about the opinions of sheep.""Any leader, no matter what you are, you've got to walk the walk and show people the way.""What you put in in life is what you get back."If you enjoyed this brutally honest insight into elite leadership and the psychology of high performance, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share with anyone who needs to understand what real leadership looks like under pressure.
Ed Smith: LBW (Leadership Beyond Winning)
01:15:57|This week on A Load of BS on Sport, Daniel Ross and Dan Biggar welcome back former England cricketer, national selector, and leadership expert Ed Smith.In this fascinating deep dive into the psychology of leadership in sport, Ed shares insights from his groundbreaking work with the Institute of Sports Humanities at Loughborough University. We explore the complex transition from athlete to leader, examining what truly makes someone worth following and whether leadership can be taught or simply revealed under pressure.Ed draws on his unique experience as both elite performer and decision-maker to unpack the delicate balance between intuition and analysis in high-stakes environments. From his time as England's national cricket selector to his current work developing the next generation of sports leaders, he reveals the art of building diverse teams, navigating uncertainty, and sustaining success.This episode tackles the fundamental questions facing modern sport: How do you create leaders who can thrive in today's complex sporting landscape? What's the secret to winning away from home? And how do we prepare athletes for their crucial "second act" beyond playing?With typical eloquence and insight, Ed challenges conventional thinking about leadership development, emphasising the importance of drawing from multiple disciplines, embracing risk, and understanding that the best leaders never stop evolving.Highlights Include:The launch of the Institute of Sports Humanities and its missionWhy leadership in sport requires drawing from multiple disciplinesThe psychology behind decision-making under extreme pressureBuilding effective teams with diverse characters and capabilitiesThe balance between data analysis and human intuitionWhy some aspects of leadership are innate while others can be taughtThe challenge of sustaining success and avoiding complacencyPreparing athletes for leadership roles beyond their playing careersLearning from other industries to enhance sports leadershipThe emotional connections that make sport universally compellingMemorable Quotes"What makes someone worth following?""Leadership dynamics in sports are evolving.""The transition from athlete to leader is complex.""The best leaders always want to get better.""Human judgment can never be got rid of.""We need to be very open to instinct and intuition.""Some aspects of leadership are innate.""You have to bear the risk of being different and worse.""Mission command stops bureaucratic log jams.""The magic of sport connects us with our past.""You want to equip professional athletes with the tools for their second act.""Understanding history is crucial for effective decision-making."If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends or anyone interested in leadership, sport, and human performance. Your support helps us bring more inspiring conversations to your ears each week!
Gail Emms: Badminton, Battles & Bouncing Back
57:44|This week on A Load of BS on Sport, Daniel Ross and Dan Biggar welcome Olympic silver medallist and badminton champion, Gail Emms.Speaking to us from sunny Mallorca ahead of a pickleball tournament, Gail opens up about her remarkable journey from Olympic podiums to finding new purpose in sport. In a candid and often emotional conversation, she shares the brutal reality of athlete retirement—describing walking away from sport as "harder than losing a final"—and how the loss of identity nearly broke her.We explore Gail's transition from badminton to pickleball, where she's rediscovered the joy of competition and community that once defined her life. She reflects on the lessons learned from losing, the crucial importance of team dynamics, and how her mother's pioneering football career shaped her sporting journey.This episode delves deep into the psychological challenges elite athletes face when the spotlight fades, the pressure of Olympic expectations, and the emotional cost of pursuing excellence. Gail's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the power of rediscovering what you love—even when it looks completely different from what came before.With typical honesty and humour, Gail also shares why badminton is the fastest sport on earth, her dream doubles partners, and her surprising guilty pleasure of raving to house music.Highlights Include:The emotional reality of athlete retirement and identity lossTransitioning from Olympic badminton to competitive pickleballWhy walking away from sport is harder than any defeatThe speed and intensity of elite badminton (shuttles at 265mph!)Lessons learned from losing and the importance of team chemistryHer mother's pioneering role in women's footballRedefining success beyond medals and trophiesThe psychological pressure of Olympic competitionFinding joy and community in sport againDream doubles partners and guilty pleasuresMemorable Quotes"Walking away from sports is harder than losing a final.""Badminton is the fastest moving sport, with shuttles reaching 265 mph.""The loss of identity after retirement can be challenging for athletes.""Losing in sports is a learning opportunity, not a failure.""Rediscovering sport can reignite passion and community.""Building strong relationships with coaches and teammates is crucial.""The pressure of elite competition can overshadow the joy of the sport.""Success can be redefined in everyday life beyond competitive achievements.""My 15-year-old self would be proud of my accomplishments.""I describe myself on court as chaotic and energetic."If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends or anyone who loves sport and great stories. Your support helps us bring more inspiring conversations to your ears each week!
Todd Martin: Choking, Composure & GOATs
01:16:19|This week on A Load of BS on Sport, Daniel Ross and Dan Biggar welcome former World Number 4 tennis player and two-time Grand Slam finalist, Todd Martin.In a refreshingly honest conversation, Todd opens up about the psychology of choking in high-pressure moments—a topic most elite athletes shy away from discussing. From his composed upbringing that shaped his mental approach to tennis, to standing across the net from legends like Boris Becker, Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi, Todd shares what it's like to be an "elite underdog"—so close to greatness, yet just missing the ultimate prize.We explore the mental battles of competing at the highest level, the weight of expectation when you're one point away from glory, and the often brutal reality of transitioning from professional sport. Todd reflects on his coaching experiences with Mardy Fish and Novak Djokovic, the subjective nature of greatness debates, and why success should be measured by personal growth rather than just trophies.This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of someone who reached the pinnacle of their sport whilst navigating the fine margins between triumph and heartbreak—and what happens when the spotlight fades.Highlights Include:The psychology of choking and why athletes rarely admit to itGrowing up with composure as a core value and how it shaped his careerCompeting against tennis superstars and the mental challenges that bringsThe pressure of Grand Slam finals and critical match momentsCoaching elite players like Novak Djokovic and Marty FishTransitioning from professional sport and finding new identityThe greatest tennis player debate and why it's beautifully subjectiveLessons on defining success beyond statistics and scoresMemorable Quotes"It's rare to hear someone admit they choked.""I was born to two amazing parents.""Composure was a priority in my upbringing.""I was raised with calm, cool and collected.""I knew I was walking out with a superstar.""Winning the right points is crucial.""It's definitely a choke moment.""Champions come from within.""Only you know if you're good enough.""I was remarkably unprepared.""Success is doing the best you can."If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends or anyone who loves sport and great stories. Your support helps us bring more inspiring conversations to your ears each week!#ToddMartin #Tennis #SportsPsychology #ALoadOfBS #Choking #Mindset #Podcast
Stephen Hendry: Dominance, Drive & Discipline.
58:28|This week on A Load of BS on Sport, Daniel Ross and Dan Biggar welcome the legendary seven-time snooker world champion, Stephen Hendry.Known as the ‘King of the Crucible’, Hendry redefined snooker with his cold-blooded focus, relentless pursuit of victory, and a psychological edge that left opponents in his wake. In this candid conversation, Stephen opens up about his journey from a Christmas snooker table to dominating the world stage as a teenager—and the immense pressures of staying at the top for over a decade.We dig into the mindset that made him a phenomenon: the calculated persona he crafted, the emotional toll of high-stakes finals, and the ‘greed for success’ that separated him from the rest. Stephen reflects on the role of mentorship, the psychological challenges of the game—including battling the yips—and the emotional journey of letting go of his champion identity.The episode also explores life after snooker, with Hendry embracing a new persona as a YouTube star, and the contrast between his ruthless on-table presence and his more relaxed, accessible self today. He shares honest thoughts on rivalries, especially with Ronnie O’Sullivan, and what success means to him now.Packed with insight, honesty, and classic sound bites, this episode is a must-listen for sports fans and anyone fascinated by the psychology of winning.Highlights Include:The origins of Hendry’s love for snooker and early influences like Jimmy WhiteThe pressure of finals and the unique demands of the CrucibleHow mentorship shaped Hendry’s career and mindsetThe emotional cost of chasing perfection and letting go of the champion’s identityTransitioning to life beyond professional sport and building a new brand onlineThoughts on rivalries, records, and the next generation of snooker greatsMemorable Quotes“He was this kind of cold-blooded phenomenon.”“I fell in love with the game straight away.”“Talent is almost the least important thing.”“You need a big pair of bollocks.”“It’s what separates the best from the rest.”“Winning felt like business.”“You’ve got to be greedy for success.”“I loved being the one that everyone wanted to beat.”“Letting go of my champion identity was horrible. Horrible.”“I don’t want him to beat it. Of course I don’t.” (on Ronnie O’Sullivan chasing his record)If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends or anyone who loves sport and great stories. Your support helps us bring more inspiring conversations to your ears each week!
Gabby Logan: Midlife, Mics and Making Her Mark.
01:08:26|Gabby Logan joins us for a brilliant conversation that spans her journey from elite gymnast to one of the most recognisable faces in British sports broadcasting. From her early days growing up in a sporting family to breaking through in a male-dominated industry, Gabby shares the lessons, laughs, and life skills she’s picked up along the way.We talk about resilience, moving schools, and why losing is just as important as winning. Gabby reflects on the power of participation in sport—for confidence, wellbeing, and those all-important life lessons. She opens up about the unique challenges of live broadcasting, the importance of empathy in journalism, and how women in sports media are paving the way for the next generation.Plus, we get Gabby’s take on midlife as a moment of power, why podcasting is her new favourite medium, and whether she’d ever host a mastermind-style sports quiz show. It’s candid, inspiring, and full of warmth—just like Gabby herself.What You’ll Hear- Gabby’s journey from gymnastics to the BBC and beyond- How her sporting family shaped her career and confidence- The role of resilience, especially when moving schools as a child- Why participation in sport matters for everyone—not just the winners- The art of natural, empathetic broadcasting (and a few Alan Partridge moments!)- Navigating and thriving in a male-dominated industry- How pivotal life experiences inform our values and choices- Embracing midlife as a time of new opportunities, not decline- The joys of podcasting and community- Thoughts on health, fitness, and redefining success in your 50s- Why quizzes and a competitive spirit can be great for personal growthMemorable Quotes“I want people at home to feel they are there, but equally there’s a little bit of them wanting to be inside that stadium.”“Participation in sports teaches valuable life lessons about winning and losing.”“Empathy is essential in sports broadcasting.”“Women in sports broadcasting are paving the way for future generations.”If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review!#GabbyLogan #SportsBroadcasting #WomenInSport #PersonalDevelopment #Resilience #MidlifePower #Podcasting #Gymnastics #Broadcasting #SportConfidence
Dave Reddin (Round 2): The Saviour of Welsh Rugby?
01:00:59|Dave Reddin is back — fresh from landing the big chair as Director of Rugby at the Welsh Rugby Union. And yes, we’re absolutely taking credit for this appointment, having talked about just how perfect he was for the job when he was last on the show!All jokes aside, we’re genuinely thrilled for Dave, and this episode is a golden chance to hear from the man now tasked with reviving the ailing dragon that is Welsh Rugby. It’s no small challenge, but if anyone’s up to it, it’s Dave.Join Daniel and Dan as they dig into Dave’s vision for Welsh Rugby’s future, the lessons he’s learned from decades in performance coaching, and how he plans to build a culture that breeds success both on and off the pitch. Expect plenty of insight, some laughs, and a healthy dose of realism about what it takes to turn things around.What You’ll Hear:Dave’s immediate priorities stepping into the WRU Director of Rugby roleHow his past experiences with England Rugby and football’s elite inform his approachThe critical importance of culture, clarity, and “operational DNA” in building winning teamsWhy “brilliant basics” beat chasing marginal gains every timeLeadership lessons from Gareth Southgate and others that will shape Welsh Rugby’s futureThe challenges ahead and why trust and connection are non-negotiableA glimpse into Dave’s personal motivations and what success looks like for himNotable Quotes:“Culture is how we do things here — it needs thought, intention, and planning.”“Winning can mean many different things depending on your organization’s goals.”“The magic is there is no magic — it’s about consistent focus on what matters.”“You have to co-create culture; it’s not just handed down from the leader.”Subscribe and Review:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts. Your support helps us bring you more great conversations like this one!Join the Conversation:Tag us on social media with #ALoadOfBSonSport #DaveReddin #WRU #WelshRugby and let us know your thoughts on Dave’s plans and Welsh Rugby’s future!
Paul McVeigh: The Stupid Footballer Is Dead
01:08:01|This week we meet Paul McVeigh, a former Premier League footballer turned high-performance coach and Psychologist, shares his journey from the pitch to the world of psychology. He discusses the critical role of mindset in sports, the challenges of imposter syndrome, and the importance of learning from legends like Jürgen Klinsmann and Gianfranco Zola. Paul emphasizes the need for recovery in both sports and corporate environments, highlighting the often-overlooked aspect of mental recovery. He also addresses the misconceptions surrounding footballers' intelligence and the evolving nature of coaching in modern football. The discussion concludes with insights into leadership and the significance of self-belief in achieving success.🎯 KEY THEMES:FROM BELFAST TO THE BIG LEAGUES"Growing up in Belfast in the 70s and 80s... I didn't realize there was essentially a civil war happening," McVeigh reflects on how his background shaped his early mindset and created an unconscious inferiority complex that would later fuel his interest in psychology.THE TURNING POINTA gifted Tony Robbins book at age 17 became the catalyst for McVeigh's transformation: "I read it, completely blew my mind and then started applying these principles of personal development to my life in both professional football and my personal life."LEARNING FROM LEGENDSMcVeigh shares fascinating stories about training with World Cup winner Jürgen Klinsmann (who drove a humble Volkswagen Beetle) and seeking out lunch with Gianfranco Zola to learn about his experiences with Maradona: "He just kind of didn't turn up for training, played on a Saturday, scored a hat trick, took the match ball and went back out again."BREAKING SELF-IMPOSED LIMITS"We're all self-limiting," McVeigh explains, drawing parallels between sports and business. "The question is, do your limits allow you to achieve your goals in life?" His insights on overcoming mental barriers resonate across all performance domains.RADICAL COMMITMENTMcVeigh's dedication to improvement led him to stop drinking for 2.5 years early in his career when he wasn't getting enough playing time: "I thought I need to change something drastically in my life to achieve my goals."THE PSYCHOLOGY OF ELITE PERFORMANCE"Your life is a direct relation of what's happening in your head," McVeigh explains, sharing how understanding human psychology became his passion after experiencing its benefits firsthand.Listen as this former Premier League player turned psychology expert breaks down:How mindset shapes performance at the highest levelThe impact of environment and belief systems on successWhy technical skills plateau while mental growth is limitlessThe misconceptions about footballers' intelligenceHow to overcome imposter syndrome in elite environments🎧 Subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode wherever you get your podcasts.