Brad Lloyd: Inside Carlton, Pressure, and the Reality of List Management | #230

In episode 230, Max sits down with former Carlton General Manager of Football Brad Lloyd! Brad takes us through what it’s really like running an AFL club at the highest level - from the inside. We unpack Carlton’s rise to a preliminary final, the expectations that followed, and how quickly momentum - and perception - can shift in football. Brad opens up on his departure from the Blues, the surreal airport press conference prior to his exit, and what it feels like facing the media when the spotlight is at its brightest. We dive deep into list management and leadership: how clubs assess risk, when to strike on big calls, and why trading future picks can be both a necessity and a gamble. Brad shares insight into working under Brian Cook, the standards required at an elite club, and how decision-making changes once you’re no longer in the building. On a personal level, Brad reflects on his own journey - growing up in Avondale Heights, fighting for opportunities as a player, transitioning into football administration, and the pride he felt watching his brother Matthew Lloyd carve out an iconic career. We also touch on how quickly things move in football, the realities of modern AFL governance, and why clarity and conviction matter more than ever under pressure. A grounded, insightful look at leadership, power, and performance inside one of football’s most demanding environments. instagram.com/sportingmax.podcast/