The Leaders State of Play Series - Nigel Pearson

"I want to enjoy walking into a building and I don't want a situation where people sit on the same table to only eat with people of a similar status," says Nigel Pearson. The renowned football manager, whose former clubs include Leicester [twice], Hull and, most recently, Watford, is discussing the environment he strives to create for athletes and staff alike when he enters a club. Pearson, who is between projects, found the time to reflect on coaching the modern athlete for the Leaders State of Play Series. Also on the conversational agenda were: - His reasons why clarity in communication requires an understanding of the players' needs [7:00]; - The reality that while you cannot force connections with younger players, compassion and empathy go a long way [9:30]; - Providing safe spaces where players can live shared values and behaviours [16:30]; - Having an open door policy as a manager but being economical with information [23:30]. Michael Caulfield: Twitter | LinkedIn Matthew Stone: Twitter | LinkedIn Further listening: The Leaders State of Play Series – Owen Eastwood Listen and subscribe today on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher and Overcast, or your chosen podcast platform.