Afleveringen
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In this conversation, I had the immense pleasure of being joined by Paul Bedford from Retention Guru to discuss all things health & fitness, sales and retention. Paul shares his extensive background in leisure and fitness, emphasizing the need for support for new exercisers and the common mistakes made by health clubs.
We explore the balance between sales and retention, the significance of member engagement, and the challenges posed by budget gyms. Paul also provides insights on measuring retention effectively and the unique value that university facilities can offer to students. I also quiz Paul on his thoughts on the emerging trends in the fitness industry, emphasizing the importance of strength training and the concept of 'active healthcare' as a proactive approach to wellness.
We discuss the need for fitness professionals to engage with healthcare providers and the significance of managing anxiety for higher-education students. Paul also shares valuable advice for aspiring sports and leisure professionals, focusing on the importance of mentorship, layered learning, and time management.
Paul recommends the following podcasts for his own inspiration:
Future of Fitness - Eric Malzone
Lifts - Matthew Januszeck
You can find more information about Paul and his work on retention by checking out - https://www.retentionguru.com/
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In this conversation, Euan Smith shares his career journey to the Director of Sport at the University of Glasgow. He discusses his ambition, the importance of understanding people in sport, and the impact of coaching on personal and professional development. Euan emphasizes the significance of business coaching as a leadership tool and reflects on his own experiences with coaching, highlighting the importance of reaching out for support and the fulfillment derived from helping others. Euan shares his journey through coaching education, the challenges he faced balancing responsibilities, and the importance of support from colleagues and mentors.
He discusses valuable lessons learned from coaching experiences, the significance of visualization in achieving goals, and the resources available for aspiring coaches. Euan reflects on the concept of life energy, emphasizing the need for balance and self-care in a demanding career. He concludes with advice for those entering the coaching field, highlighting the importance of hard work, celebrating successes, and maintaining kindness in professional relationships.
We discuss a number of resources in this episode, and you can find more information below:
The Coaching Habit - Michael Bungay Stanier
Power of Moments - Dan & Chip Heath
Coaching for Leaders Podcast - Hosted by Dave Stachowiak
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this conversation, Gavin Ward, a senior lecturer in physical education at the University of Wolverhampton, discusses his research on race and equality in sport, particularly focusing on the experiences of non-white participants in the BUCS ecosystem. The conversation delves into the complexities of racial terminology, the findings of the research, and the implications for H.E.
Gavin emphasizes the importance of creating spaces for dialogue about race and the need for protocols to address racial abuse in sports settings. We discuss the complexities of addressing abuse in sports, the importance of data and accountability in universities, and the need for mediation and social justice. The conversation also touches on the power of sport in creating a sense of belonging and the significance of understanding values and behaviors in sports. Finally, Gavin offers advice for aspiring sports professionals and reflects on the importance of self-awareness regarding identity and biases.
Gavin recommends Winning by Clive Woodward as an inspirational resource.
You can find more information on the Race & Equality research and working group, here: https://www.bucs.org.uk/resources-page/race-and-equality-research.html
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In this conversation, Phil shares his diverse career journey leading to his role as Director of Sport at the University of East Anglia. He discusses his experiences in Saudi Arabia, his early career in the private leisure sector and the nuances of the Director of Sport role. Phil emphasizes the significance of teamwork and the transferable skills between sports management and other sectors, while also reflecting on personal development and lessons learned throughout his career. We take a specific deep dive into Phil's reflections on leadership throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, emotional intelligence, and team dynamics.
Phil recommends the following resources:
The Happiness Advantage, Shawn Achor
No rule Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention, Reed Hastings, Erin Meyer
You can find more information on the 'Value of Sport' work here: https://www.bucs.org.uk/resources-page/demonstrating-the-value-of-higher-education-sport.html
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In this week's episode, I am delighted to be joined by Andy Allford, Director of Sport at the University of Birmingham.
Andy discusses his career journey and we take a deep dive into the role of sport in higher education. We get to explore his experience at the 2012 Olympics and listen to the lessons he learned about performance, prevention, and creating a supportive environment.
In our conversation, we discuss the evolving role of sport in higher education (HE) and the challenges and opportunities it presents. We consider the current competitive model in university sport and whether it needs to be reevaluated. We expore the need to measure the value of sport beyond the traditional metrics, such as BUCS points, and focus on the broader objectives it can achieve, such as recruitment, retention, and alumni engagement.
Andy also shares his experience of hosting the Commonwealth Games and the benefits it brought to the University of Birmingham. He advises aspiring HE sport professionals to be a sponge, get involved in as much as possible, and know when to get in and get out of opportunities.
Andy recommends 'Pig Wrestling' by Mark Bawden and Pete Lindsay.
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Today's episode features our first leader from outside H.E. Hayley Lever is the CEO of Greater Manchester Moving, the organisation responsible for changing lives through movement, physical activity and sport across Manchester.
I've been fortunate to spend some time with Hayley over the last few years and have found the work that she is leading to be pioneering and inspirational.
Our conversation explores the concept of systems thinking and systems leadership in the context of promoting physical activity and tackling inequalities. We discuss the origins of the GM Moving movement and its approach to addressing inactivity and inequalities and highlight the importance of understanding the multiple influences on physical activity and the need for a whole-system approach. We discuss the challenges of adopting a systems approach, including the tension between traditional measurement and evaluation systems and the need for more flexible and emergent approaches.
Hayley discusses the tipping point in the adoption of a whole systems approach to addressing inactivity and inequalities in Greater Manchester. She emphasizes the importance of clarity of purpose, the critical role of relationships, and the need for a both/and mindset. Hayley also highlights the value of creating space and time for learning and reflection, and the power of embracing difficult moments as opportunities for change. She recommends the book 'Dare to Lead' by Brené Brown and encourages aspiring sport professionals to trust themselves, keep an open mind, and find their sweet spot in the intersection of what they love, what they're good at, what they can be paid for, and what the world needs.
Throughout our conversation, Hayley references a number of resources and you can find links to them below:
Hayleys Blog - Blog Contents: Leadership, Learning and Life. – Hayley Lever (wordpress.com)
Hayleys Ted Talk - https://hayleyleverblog.wordpress.com/2019/07/20/the-power-of-active-soles-to-change-the-world/
Dr William Bird Video - Dr. William Bird MBE, Intelligent Health - YouTube
GM Moving - https://www.gmmoving.co.uk/
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In this episode I was delighted to welcome, Stephen Baddeley, Director of Sport at the University of Bath to the show.
Stephen discusses his career journey and the role of sport at the university. He highlights the importance of partnerships in supporting performance athletes and the success of Team Bath. He also addresses the challenges facing the higher education sector, including funding constraints and increasing costs. Despite these challenges, he emphasizes the value of sport in the university's reputation and student experience. In this part of the conversation, Stephen Baddeley discusses the challenges of advocating for sport internally and the difficulty of demonstrating the value of sport in a mechanistic way. He reflects on the loss of the netball franchise and the financial challenges faced by universities in supporting professional or semi-professional teams. He shares the greatest moment in his career, winning the European Championships in badminton, and the person who had the biggest influence on him. He also offers three pieces of advice for aspiring HE sport professionals: focus on finances, don't avoid difficult conversations, and be open to changing your mind.
Stephen recommends The One Minute Manager by Blanchard & Johnson as a resource he recommends.
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SportH.E goes international! In this episode, we get a unique opportunity to explore the U.S College Sport environment, where we are joined by Brian Sereno, Associate Director of Communications at George Washington University.
GW is a member of the Atlantic 10 Conference and has 20 intercollegiate varsity programs with approximately 400 student-athletes.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Brian discusses his role in telling the stories of student-athletes and promoting the university's sports programs. He emphasizes the importance of athletics in building community and fostering personal growth and leadership skills. Sereno also touches on topics such as Title IX, name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights, and the broadcasting of college sports.
Brian recommends Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin as a great read.
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In this episode, we are joined by Richard Wheater, Director of Sport at Loughborough University. Unless you've been living under a rock you will know that Loughborough is a global leading sports institution and is often cited as the sector leader in the UK.
We recorded this episode just after the Paris Olympics, where multiple Loughborough students were excelling on the world stage so it was a great time to sit down with Richard and 'lift the lid' on the environment and culture at the University.
Richard discusses his career journey from aspiring musician to Director of Sport. He highlights the importance of being authentic and values-driven in leadership, and how his military experience shaped his leadership style. Richard also talks about the strategic support for sport at Loughborough University and the focus on both elite and grassroots participation. He explains the structural change between the professional service of sport and the student union and the positive outcomes of this collaboration.
Richard discusses the importance of trust and communication in working with governing bodies and delivering a successful student experience. He emphasizes the value of talented athletes and the need for a student-centred approach. Richard also discusses the challenges facing the higher education sector, such as changes in funding and the increasing competitiveness of sport.
Richard recommends the book 'Yes to the Mess' by Frank J Barrett as a resource for leadership lessons.
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In this special live edition, recorded at BUCS Conference in 2024 I had the opportunity to speak and listen to 4 women on their leadership journeys within sport. A huge thanks to Kate Cox (Sheffield Hallam), Katie Storie (Newcastle), Jo Emmett (Loughborough) and Sam Bell-Minogue (BUCS) for being part of this sensational panel.
With searing honesty, we hear the lived experiences of women who have progressed into leadership roles and explore the challenges they have embraced along the way.
We cover many topics, including gender equity, gender bias, appearance, International Women's Day balancing a career with parenthood and so much more.
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We are ending season 1 with a bang! A huge privilege to welcome Jo Coates to SportH.E. For the past 6 months, Jo has been interim CEO at BUCS. Prior to this she has held roles at the very pinnacle of sport in the UK, including stints at England Netball and UK Athletics. Not having worked in HE/FE before I was intrigued to listen to her reflections and thoughts on the sector and the conversation doesn't disappoint. We cover a huge array of topics from media, branding and commercial to NGB's, transgender issues and the huge sporting spectacle that are Nationals and BUCS Big Wednesday.
In addition, we also get to hear from Jo on her career to date, the highs and lows of working in sport and her lessons for any aspiring sport industry professionals.
Jo recommends 'Normal Women' by Philippa Gregory as a book that she has recommended to others the most.
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In this episode we get the opportunity to spend some time with Paul Tilley, Head of Sport and Recreation at the University of Portsmouth.
We cover so much in this episode but in particular we take a deep dive into the development and subsequent impact and management of not only the largest single sports facility development in our sector of recent years but also the most sustainable in the UK. It is a great listen for anyone looking to chart a similar path.
However, the interview is also about so much more, where we hear Paul openly share with us the challenges and hurdles he has had to overcome in his career and his personal and professional development.
For inspiration Paul highlights the High Performance Podcast and in particular the episode with Shaun Dyche.
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In this week's epsiode I was delighted to be joined by our first guest from Ireland. Michelle Tanner is the Head of Sport and Recreation at Trinity College Dublin.
We'll hear about the funding and structures in place at Trinity and how Michelle navigates these to drive the sport agenda. We'll also learn about the hugely successful 'Mind, Body, Boost' programme that is improving student mental health through sport and activity. Michelle, tells us how after some initial setbacks, the power of perseverance has driven this project to amazing heights, now being delivered across the UK and Europe.
Michelle recommends, Open, Andre Agassi's autobiography and The Secret Race by Tyler Hamilton as sources of inspiration.
We also talk about ENAS and you can find out more information about the organisation here - https://www.enas-sport.net/
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It was a real treat to spend some time in the company of Dave Parry from the University of Essex in this week's episode.
Dave shares his winding story into HE sport, revealing some incredibly personal insights into his journey and the lessons he has learnt along the way that have shaped him into the leader he is today.
We also get to peak behind the curtain, into the pioneering work Essex are doing to drive fan engagement through their performance sport programmes and bring 'US style razmatazz' to the UK.
Dave is another example of a great human being, who is able to offer sage advice and doing some fantastic work to enhance the student experience through sport. This episode is definitely not one to miss!
Dave recommends we check out 'The Growth Equation' podcast, a place he goes to often for inspiration.
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In this episode I am joined by Sarah Humphreys, Director of Sport and Active Wellbeing at the University of Reading.
Sarah has had an amazing career with stops at a number of UK University's and perhaps most notably a stint as Director of Sport at the University of Nottingham in China. In this fascinating conversation we take a deep dive into Sarah's multitude of experiences and explore what it was like to lead a team in China, whilst also in a pandemic!
We also get to hear how Sarah has taken some of those lessons into her new role at Reading and the work she is doing to embed sport and active wellbeing as a core part of the University experience.
Sarah offers up the following recommendations for inspiration:
Stephen Covey - 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Stein & Book - The EQ Edge
David Livermore - Leading with Cultural Intelligence
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In this episode, I welcome Paul Carney, Director of Sport and Active Health at Canterbury Christ Church University.
We have a fascinating conversation that dives deep into the lived experience of someone leading change, managing partnerships and making the case for sport across a University.
With a wealth of knowledge Paul tell's us how he ensures the core values of education are ingrained in what he and his team do on a daily basis. We'll also hear that when managing change, its important to be clear on the direction, clear on the need for change and then having the courage of your convictions to see it through.
We also discuss the importance of creating effective partnerships both internally and externally that are built on trust and an unwavering belief that above all else, 'people are the most important thing'.
Paul recommends we check out:
- Stolen Focus by Johann Hari
- 99% invisible podcast
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In this episode, I had the opportunity to spend some time with Cathy Gallacher, Executive Director of Sport at the University of Stirling.
In our chat we take a deep dive into the culture and environment at Stirling , where sport is part of the very DNA of the University. We will hear Cathy tells us how this manifests itself across all departments, whilst reminding us that the strategic positioning of sport remains an ongoing focus of her role.
We learn the importance of resilience in the continual pursuit of excellence, which Cathy explains isn't just about winning medals it has to be about every facet of the sport experience.
Our chat is peppered with some key takeaways, none more so than appreciating that things don't happen overnight, take the time to celebrate the small wins and it's ok to not know the answer.
Cathy tells us that a source of inspiration for her is Simon Mundie's podcast - The Life Lessons.
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In this week's episode, we are delighted to welcome Ross Simpson, Assistant Director and Head of Sport at the University of Edinburgh.
As an institution, Edinburgh can boast some big numbers, 50,000 students (36,000 at any one time in the City), 15,000 staff and 21 academic schools. Their sport programme is then equally large with 70 sport clubs, 1,000 volunteers and 21,000 gym members.
This then is a fascinating opportunity to peel back some of the layers and get an insight into the workings of a high-performing sport department. We'll hear Ross describe how they engage with such large numbers and the unique governance and management structure they have in place, working in true alignment with the sports union.
Ross also shares his passion for volunteering and how this has taken him to some of the largest sporting events in the world. We'll also find out about his career to date and the inspiration that are his grandparents, both of whom have been awarded the Polar Medal from the Queen.
Ross suggests two resources that continue to inspire him:
The High Performance Podcast
Essentialism, Greg McKeown
Lastly you can check out the documentary film about Myrtle Simpson here: https://myrtlefilm.com/
Episode edited by Peter Lamber, Cardiff Met Sport TV
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In this episode, we are joined by Fiona Dick, Head of Sport at De Montfort University in Leicester. Fiona takes us on a passionate and intimate journey through her professional career in sport. With searing honesty, we'll hear about how she has persevered through knockbacks and pursued her passion for working in sport.
We'll hear how Fiona has navigated change, building a sports department from scratch in an incredibly short time period. Accompanied with insights into the importance of focussing on team behaviours and holding people accountable.
This episode is packed full of takeaways and includes some great information about the delivery model for encouraging students from a widening participation background to get and stay active.
Fiona has recommended the following books as key inspiration points for her:
Five Dysfunctions of a Team - Patrick Lencioni
Eat, Sweat, Play - Anna Kessel
Game Changers - Sue Anstiss
Note - you'll hear us discuss TASS, this is the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme.
Episode edited by Peter Lambern, Cardiff Met Sport TV
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In this very first episode of sportH.E, I have the pleasure of being joined by Dan Tilley, Director of Sport at the University of Nottingham. Dan will tell us about his career from starting out as a sport sabbatical officer to running one of the largest student programmes in the country.
We will hear how he approached the development of the £40m David Ross Sports Village through a mixture of lobbying and influencing across the University community and his lessons in creating a student-centred sports programme that aligns the professional service and the student union.
He'll also cover branding, identity, financial pressures, NGB partnerships, the strength of the University community in the face of tragedy and much more.
Dan tells us he has three books he has gifted to others that have resonated with him, including; Atomic Habits, James Clear, The Long Win, Cath Bishop and The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, Charlie Mackesy
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