A LOAD OF BS ON SPORT: The Behavioural Science Podcast dives deep into the psychology of what makes elite performers tick; how they think about success and failure, how they find and maintain peak performance, how they manage fear and adversity, how they make decisions under pressure, how they deal with risk and uncertainty.Daniel is a behavioural science expert, entrepreneur and sports fanatic, while Dan has lived his dream on the rugby field for the past 17 years, winning three Six Nations titles, earning over 100 caps for Wales (including the captaincy) and touring twice with the British & Irish Lions. Currently playing for RC Toulon, Dan is loving this rugby-mad town, fully embracing the French lifestyle.
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 growth
Memorable 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!
Dave Reddin (Round 2): The Saviour of Welsh Rugby?
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 • Duration 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 role
How his past experiences with England Rugby and football’s elite inform his approach
The critical importance of culture, clarity, and “operational DNA” in building winning teams
Why “brilliant basics” beat chasing marginal gains every time
Leadership lessons from Gareth Southgate and others that will shape Welsh Rugby’s future
The challenges ahead and why trust and connection are non-negotiable
A glimpse into Dave’s personal motivations and what success looks like for him
Notable 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.”
Paul McVeigh: The Stupid Footballer Is Dead
Wednesday, April 30, 2025 • Duration 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 POINT
A 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 LEGENDS
McVeigh 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.
Nigel Owens: Raw Honesty, Rural Roots & Rugby Rulings.
Wednesday, April 16, 2025 • Duration 01:10:30
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)
Alistair Brownlee: Pain, Pressure & Life After Sport.
Wednesday, April 9, 2025 • Duration 01:02:43
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Alistair Brownlee joins hosts Daniel Ross and Dan Biggar to discuss the physical and mental demands of elite endurance sport, his recent retirement, and the transition to life beyond competition. The triathlon legend offers rare insights into the mindset that propelled him to the pinnacle of one of the world's most grueling sports.
🔥 KEY THEMES:
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF PAIN
Brownlee reveals his approach to endurance sport's greatest challenge: "I remember practicing from a young age... looking at some point on the bike in front of me and just thinking, in this moment, nothing matters apart from the fact that I don't get any further away from that point." His ability to maintain complete focus while pushing his body to its limits defined his career.
THE RETIREMENT TRANSITION
"This marks my transition from professional triathlon—a moment approached with both dread and excitement in equal measure," Brownlee reflects on ending his 18-year professional career. Unlike many athletes who struggle with identity after sport, he embraces this new chapter: "There's definitely a lot less dread and there's still plenty of excitement."
BUILDING CONSISTENCY & HABITS
Brownlee shares his revolutionary approach to training consistency: "You don't give yourself the option not to." Rather than relying on willpower, he created systems and habits that removed decision-making from the equation: "I wake up Monday morning, the alarm goes off. I don't have an option whether I'm going training or not. It's just what I do."
THE ROLE OF ENVIRONMENT & COMMUNITY
"I think a happy circumstance of some traits, my environment around me and quite a lot of luck," Brownlee attributes his success to multiple factors beyond talent. From supportive parents to finding the right coach at the right time, he emphasizes how our surroundings shape our potential.
Courtney Lawes: One more Lions tour
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 • Duration 01:13:56
This week, rugby powerhouse Courtney Lawes joins old pal Dan Biggar and Daniel for a candid conversation about his illustrious career, leadership journey, and life beyond the pitch. From his time at Northampton Saints to his current adventure in French rugby, Lawes offers rare insights into the world of professional rugby and shares his thoughtful perspective on both sport and society.
🏉 KEY THEMES:
LEADERSHIP EVOLUTION
Lawes reflects on his transformation from feared enforcer to respected leader: "I've always been a player that typically learns quite quickly... I began to understand a lot more clearly how momentum and pressure ebb and flow throughout a game." His approach to leadership is refreshingly authentic - calm, relaxed, but intensely focused when it matters most.
LIONS TOUR AMBITIONS
Despite moving to France, Lawes reveals his continued aspirations for another British & Irish Lions tour. "I want to do my best if nothing else," he shares, discussing how his move to Brive hasn't diminished his international ambitions. With his wealth of experience and consistent performances, Lawes makes a compelling case for inclusion in the next Lions squad, demonstrating that age is just a number when it comes to elite performance.
CULTURAL DIFFERENCES IN RUGBY
Experience the fascinating contrast between English and French rugby cultures through Lawes' eyes. "In the UK, we focus on how to get better... whereas in France, it's very much outcome-based." Discover how these different approaches shape team dynamics, performance, and player mentality.
TEAM DYNAMICS & MENTORSHIP
"Young players are desperate for guidance," Lawes explains, sharing his philosophy on developing the next generation. His commitment to passing on knowledge shines through as he discusses mentoring younger players both at Northampton and now in France.
EMOTIONAL CONNECTION TO CLUB
Hear Lawes' powerful reflection on representing his hometown: "I'm representing the people that I grew up with, the places I grew up in, and I don't take that lightly." This emotional bond has shaped his entire approach to the game and his remarkable loyalty to Northampton Saints.
Jimmy Anderson : Cricket Legend on Retirement, Age Discrimination, Mental Toughness & 20 Years at the Top.
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 • Duration 01:14:59
In this captivating episode, cricket legend Jimmy Anderson joins us for a candid conversation about his remarkable career spanning over two decades. The England bowling great opens up about his controversial retirement, the mental and physical challenges of Test cricket, and what keeps him motivated to continue playing county cricket into his 40s.
🔥 KEY THEMES:
RETIREMENT & AGE DISCRIMINATION
Anderson reveals he still feels capable of playing at international level and discusses how age discrimination affects not just sport but society at large. "I'm sure if the number 42 wasn't next to my name on the team sheet, I'd still be putting my name in the hat for series to come."
MENTAL HEALTH & PERFORMANCE PSYCHOLOGY
For the first time, Jimmy shares his experience with hypnotherapy and how it transformed his performance: "I went through a period of probably two or three years of using hypnotherapy... My performances around that time went through the roof."
THE PHYSICAL & MENTAL TOLL OF TEST CRICKET
Anderson shares a revealing anecdote about the extreme demands of Test cricket: "Our bodies were in such pain and mentally we were shot... we did four laps of Regent's Park in the car because we didn't want to go to the ground."
RIVALRIES & MIND GAMES
From his approach to different Australian players to personal rivalries with Michael Clarke, Anderson provides fascinating insights into the psychological aspects of fast bowling: "There were certain batters that you try and just get in the head... It's actually trying to put them off their game or out of their rhythm."
LEGACY & THE FUTURE OF CRICKET
"I'd love for some kids to get into swing bowling because they'd watch me do it... I think I'd like to see the skill side of bowling stay in the game."
Brett Gosper : NFL, Rugby & Global Sports Leadership
Wednesday, March 19, 2025 • Duration 01:08:50
In this episode of A LOAD OF BS ON SPORT, we're joined by Brett Gosper, a true sports industry heavyweight who has seamlessly navigated the worlds of elite rugby, global advertising, and now the NFL's international expansion.
From Rugby Player to Sports Executive Extraordinaire
Brett's remarkable journey began as an Australian rugby player who, after missing out on a Wallabies trial, took a chance on playing in France. This "closing doors moment" led to a dual career – professional rugby by night and advertising executive by day. After 30 years in the advertising world, Brett made a surprising pivot back to sports, becoming CEO of World Rugby before taking on his current role as Head of NFL Europe and Asia Pacific.
Navigating Complex Sports Organisations
Brett offers fascinating insights into the contrasting challenges of leading World Rugby versus the NFL. While World Rugby required him to navigate the complex politics of a global federation with competing interests, the NFL presents a more unified but equally ambitious organisation. He reveals how his advertising background provided valuable perspective when approaching sports leadership, particularly in creating fan-centric strategies.
The Global Expansion Playbook
As the architect of the NFL's international growth strategy, Brett shares the meticulous planning behind bringing American football to new territories. From staging international games that feel like "mini Super Bowls" to developing academies in the UK and Australia, he outlines the NFL's comprehensive approach to finding the next 50 million fans outside the United States. He explains why cultural relevance is crucial when expanding into new markets, whilst still maintaining the authentic Americana experience that international fans crave.
Developing International Talent
The conversation explores the fascinating International Player Pathway programme, which has produced success stories like Jordan Mailata, the Australian former rugby league player who became the first Australian to win a Super Bowl. Brett discusses the psychological challenges these athletes face transitioning to American football and how the NFL Academy system is creating pathways for international talent to reach the highest levels of the sport.
Dave Reddin : World Cup Glory, Olympic Gold, and the Secrets to Building Winning Teams
Wednesday, March 12, 2025 • Duration 01:21:45
In this episode of A LOAD OF BS ON SPORT, we're joined by the mastermind behind some of the greatest sporting triumphs of our time - Dave Reddin. With a CV that boasts a Rugby World Cup victory, Olympic glory, and a revolutionised England football team, Dave's insights into performance coaching are nothing short of legendary.
From Grassroots Grit to Glory's Architect Dave's journey began as a semi-pro footballer with a sports science degree, but his passion for pushing boundaries soon led him to the world of performance coaching. He cut his teeth in the trenches of rugby, meticulously honing his skills and knowledge over 15 years. Now, he's the architect behind sporting giants, transforming teams and individuals into formidable forces.
Decoding the DNA of Champions Dave reveals the secrets behind his success, delving into his unique approach of creating an "operational DNA" for every organisation he works with. He dissects the intricate process of defining "winning," meticulously analysing every facet of the organisation to pinpoint areas for improvement. Forget marginal gains – Dave champions "brilliant basics," stressing the importance of mastering the fundamentals before chasing those extra 1%s.
Culture: The Unsung Hero Dave passionately argues that culture is the often-overlooked key to unlocking a team's true potential. He paints a vivid picture of a good culture – transparent, communicated, and co-created by every single member of the team. He shares captivating anecdotes from his time with England Rugby and the FA, revealing how he helped cultivate winning cultures that led to historic victories.
This episode isn't just for sports fanatics – it's a masterclass in leadership, culture building, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Dave Reddin's journey is a testament to the power of passion, meticulous planning, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every individual and team.
Key Discussion Points:
From Footballer to Performance Powerhouse: Dave's unconventional path to the top of the sporting world.
Alastair Cook: From Choir Boy to Cricket Captain - Leadership, Longevity and Life After Cricket.
Wednesday, March 5, 2025 • Duration 01:18:58
In this captivating episode, Dan Biggar and Daniel Ross sit down with cricket legend Sir Alastair Cook for an intimate conversation about his remarkable career and life beyond the boundary.
England's second-highest Test run-scorer opens up about his unconventional journey from choir boy to cricket captain, revealing how his early musical training helped him perform under pressure. Cook shares fascinating insights into the psychology of batting, describing his battle with "the gimp on my shoulder" and how accepting rather than fighting his mental demons transformed his game in 2010.
The conversation delves into Cook's extraordinary resilience, highlighted by his record 159 consecutive Test matches and marathon innings of 836 minutes in Abu Dhabi. With refreshing honesty, he discusses the challenges of opening batting ("you need some kind of mental madness"), the psychology behind batting collapses, and the delicate art of slip-catching.
Cook reflects candidly on leadership, describing how captaining close friends like Anderson, Broad and Swann led to productive conflicts that ultimately strengthened the team. He offers a thoughtful perspective on managing maverick talents like Kevin Pietersen, acknowledging that with hindsight, he might have approached certain situations differently.
The episode concludes with Cook discussing his transition from international cricket to county cricket with Essex and eventually to farm life. He shares wisdom about accepting that nothing can replace the unique camaraderie of elite sport while finding fulfilment in new challenges.
With humor, humility and remarkable self-awareness, Cook provides a masterclass in mental fortitude and leadership that transcends cricket. Whether you're a dedicated cricket fan or simply interested in the psychology of high performance, this episode offers invaluable insights from one of England's greatest sporting minds.
Key moments:
Cook's journey from choir boy to cricket captain
The mental breakthrough that transformed his batting in 2010
The psychology behind batting for 14 hours straight
“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!
McVeigh'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 level
The impact of environment and belief systems on success
Why technical skills plateau while mental growth is limitless
The misconceptions about footballers' intelligence
How to overcome imposter syndrome in elite environments
🎧 Subscribe to make sure you never miss an episode wherever you get your podcasts.
Brownlee discusses the importance of maintaining perspective through education and interests outside sport: "I always kind of recommend to athletes if they have got the chance, just do bits alongside it just to keep that kind of perspective and context and skills in the outside world."
Listen as this sporting great shares the lessons learned from pushing his body to the absolute limit, the value of imagination over belief, and why finding contentment remains life's greatest challenge. Whether you're an aspiring athlete or simply fascinated by the psychology of high performance, this conversation offers invaluable insights into what separates the good from the truly great.
🎧 Subscribe to our podcast for more in-depth conversations with sporting legends!
In an era of polarized opinions, Lawes offers a refreshing perspective: "We can disagree without hating each other." His thoughtful approach to social issues and commitment to honest dialogue provides valuable insights for navigating today's complex world.
Listen as these rugby stars discuss the psychology behind team dynamics, the challenges of playing abroad, and the importance of authenticity both on and off the field. With moments of humor, vulnerability, and wisdom, this conversation offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of rugby's most respected figures.
🎧 Subscribe for more in-depth conversations with sporting legends!
Listen as one of cricket's greatest fast bowlers reflects on the friendships formed during his career, his techniques for maintaining calm under pressure, and his experiences facing the world's best batsmen. This conversation offers rare insights into the mind of a sporting great who has bowled over 50,000 deliveries in international cricket.
🎧 Subscribe to our podcast and explore the archive for more in-depth conversations with sporting legends!
This episode isn't just for sports fans – it's a masterclass in leadership across different organisational cultures. Brett's journey demonstrates the value of being adaptable, maintaining product quality while pursuing commercial growth, and always keeping the fan perspective at the centre of decision-making.
Key Discussion Points:
Career Crossroads: How missing a Wallabies trial led Brett to a transformative career in France
From Advertising to Sports Leadership: The unexpected transition that brought Brett back to the sporting world
Balancing Culture and Commerciality: Maintaining the integrity of sports while pursuing global growth
The NFL's International Strategy: Creating fan engagement through games, academies, and flag football
Leadership Principles: The importance of listening to fans and athletes when making strategic decisions
Cultural Differences: How rugby and NFL teams approach competition and player development
Leadership lessons from captaining friends and mavericks
Finding purpose and happiness beyond professional sport
Today's podcast is brought to you in partnership with The Events Room. With an amazing sporting calendar in 2025, The Events Room have events happening around the Six Nation and The Lions, featuring the likes of Warren Gatland, Alun Wyn Jones, Sam Warburton and Martin Johnson, and that's just the Rugby, so get on the website at http//:www.theeventsroom.co.uk to see all their upcoming events and get booking
The Events Room, making memorable moments happen in 2025.
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