A Level Playing Field

In this episode of A Level Playing Field, we sit down with Laura Montgomery, one of the most influential figures in Scottish women's football and one half of the driving force behind Glasgow City’s rise to the top of the women’s game.Laura reflects on the journey from founding a club with limited resources to building a dominant force in domestic football, all while navigating the challenges of sustainability, visibility, and growth in the women’s game. We explore the realities behind running a successful club, the progress made in recent years, and where the game still needs to go.From grassroots development to the business side of football, this is an honest and insightful conversation about leadership, resilience, and shaping the future of the sport.If you care about where women’s football is headed and how it got here - this is one you won’t want to miss! Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

A Level Playing Field returns with a special episode spotlighting the standout performers of the SWPL season.We’re joined by a host of nominees for the PFA Scotland Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards to reflect on their campaigns, key moments, and what this recognition means to them.Hear from Player of the Year nominees Katie Wilkinson (Rangers), Georgie Timms (Hearts), Lee Gibson (Glasgow City) and Nicole Kozlova, as well as Young Player of the Year nominees Lisa Forrest (Glasgow City) and Laura Berry (Rangers).From title races to personal milestones, it’s an insight into the players who have defined the season and a look ahead to who might take home the honours. 🎙️⚽Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

Cheryl Smith and Alison McConnell are back with a fresh episode of A Level Playing Field, diving into all the big talking points in Scottish women’s football.The duo kick things off with the international break, reflecting on a positive window for Scotland and what it means for growing belief around their World Cup qualification hopes. There’s also a look at the newly announced PFA SWPL Team of the Year, with discussion around the standout performers and any notable inclusions or omissions.Attention then turns to domestic matters, including Rangers’ decision to move a fixture from Ibrox to Broadwood, and the questions it raises around scheduling and supporter accessibility with an inconvenient kick-off time.Finally, it’s all about the title race, with Cheryl and Alison assessing where things stand, who has the momentum, and what could prove decisive in the weeks ahead.Insightful, honest, and full of passion for the game. This is one you won’t want to miss! Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

This week on A Level Playing Field we’re joined by a true trailblazer of the women’s game - Rose Reilly.A World Cup champion, and one of Scotland’s most iconic footballing exports, Rose reflects on a remarkable career that broke boundaries across generations and continents. From her early days in Scotland to conquering the world stage with Italy, she shares the stories behind the headlines, the challenges, the triumphs, and the moments that defined her journey.We dive into how the women’s game has evolved, what still needs to change, and why the current generation should never take their platform for granted. Plus, Rose gives her take on today’s Scottish game and the players catching her eye.It’s a fascinating, honest, and inspiring conversation with a true pioneer of the sport.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Sarah Rhind to explore the powerful story behind her book Scars Under the Jersey: Addiction, Loss and the Game I Love.Sarah speaks openly about her journey through recovery, the grip of addiction, and the lasting impact of grief after personal loss. It’s an honest and emotional conversation about rebuilding your life when everything has been stripped back and the strength it takes to keep going.We also dive into her connection with Street Soccer, representing Scotland at the Homeless World Cup, and how the game became a lifeline during some of her darkest moments. From there, Sarah reflects on her return to the professional game with Hamilton Accies Women in the Scottish Women's Premier League and what football means to her now.We also talk about the process of writing the book, why she felt ready to share her story, and the hope it can give to others facing similar battles.This is a raw, inspiring and ultimately uplifting episode about recovery, resilience, and finding purpose through football.Get your copy HERE 👉 amzn.eu/d/06yCMlPKSend us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by SWPL Managing Director Fiona McIntyre for an in-depth and honest conversation about the state of the women’s game in Scotland.Fiona lifts the lid on what her role really involves behind the scenes, the biggest challenges she’s faced since taking charge, and the ongoing effort to grow the league’s visibility and get more fans through the turnstiles. We also tackle the recent headlines around a reported financial crisis in the SWPL and hear directly from Fiona on why she strongly disputes that narrative.There’s also a brilliant look back at the league’s dramatic title run-ins, including the extraordinary story of trophy day going down to the wire and the trophy ending up in the back of a taxi.Plus, we preview a huge weekend for the domestic game as Glasgow City take on Rangers in the Sky Sports Cup Final, with insight on what it means for both clubs and the wider league.It’s a candid, insightful, and at times surprising chat that gives a real sense of where the SWPL is right now and where it’s heading.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

In this episode, we’re joined by the Head of Refereeing at the Scottish FA, Willie Collum, for an honest and insightful conversation about the future of female referees in Scotland.Willie discusses the growing presence of women in officiating and the clear ambition to see female referees regularly taking charge of top-flight men’s matches.He opens up on areas the game isn’t talking about enough, including how referees manage training during the menstrual cycle and the challenges of returning to elite fitness after pregnancy.The conversation also tackles one of the biggest barriers facing female officials: the demands of the fitness tests. Alongside this, Willie reflects on his own journey in refereeing, sharing both the highs and the lows from his time on the pitch, offering a rare and personal perspective on the pressures of the role.Finally, he outlines his vision for the future and the practical steps being taken to attract, support, and retain more women in refereeing at every level of the game.A candid, forward-thinking discussion on breaking barriers and building the next generation of officials.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

On this episode, we sit down with Leanne Crichton, now manager of Rangers, for an honest conversation about leadership, loyalty, and life beyond the pitch.Leanne opens up about the emotional decision to leave Glasgow City, the club that shaped so much of her career and the whirlwind of feelings that came with crossing the city. She reflects on that pivotal moment, what was said between her and Leanne Ross, and how it felt to step into a new chapter wearing different colours.Now at the helm at Rangers, she shares what life is really like as Gers boss: the pressure, the pride, the expectations, and the “pinch me” moments that come with leading one of Scotland’s biggest clubs.Away from football, Leanne speaks candidly about becoming a mum, how it’s changed her perspective, strengthened her resilience, and reshaped the way she approaches both management and life. She also discusses stepping into the media spotlight, the nerves she initially felt around punditry work, and how she’s grown to embrace and enjoy having a voice in the game.There’s reflection too on Scotland from her own experiences in the national jersey to her thoughts on the country’s World Cup hopes. And she gives her take on the direction under Melissa Andreatta, and what the future could hold.It’s an open, thoughtful and revealing conversation about growth, courage, and carving out your own path in the modern game.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Andreatta, the head coach of the Scotland Women’s national team, to explore her fascinating journey in football. From growing up in Australia and chasing her dream as a player to experiencing the heartbreak of the Matildas and navigating the highs and lows of a coaching career, Melissa shares the moments that have shaped her both on and off the pitch.She talks candidly about what inspired her to take on the Scotland job, how she has embraced life in a new country, and the challenges and rewards of leading a national team with ambition and heart.Melissa also opens up about her vision for the team, her hopes of guiding Scotland to the Women’s World Cup, and what it takes to inspire a squad to dream bigger than ever before.Packed with insight, honesty, and plenty of football passion, this episode offers a rare look behind the whistle at the journey, determination, and mindset of one of the game’s most exciting coaches.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

This week on A Level Playing Field, we’re joined by Cara Henderson to hear her inspiring journey back from an ACL injury.Cara opens up about the mental toll of long-term injury, navigating two managerial changes, and her thoughts on the league’s recent cash crisis. We also discuss her evolving pathway into media work and get her take on this weekend’s thrilling final round of fixtures before the split. A must-listen for anyone fascinated by resilience, women’s football, and the stories behind the game.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

In this episode of A Level Playing Field, Celtic and Scotland midfielder Maria McAneny sits down for an in-depth conversation about her journey through the game - from academy prospect to one of the most exciting young talents in the SWPL.Maria reflects on coming through Celtic’s academy system and what it takes to make the transition from youth football into the senior environment. She opens up about her pivotal loan spell at Hearts at just 17, the responsibility that came with stepping into first-team football so young, and how that experience accelerated her development both on and off the pitch.We revisit some of the standout moments that have defined her rise so far - scoring from the halfway line against Hibs, finding the net at Celtic Park, and the unforgettable feeling of scoring on her Scotland debut.She shares what it meant to pull on the national team shirt, to line up alongside established stars like Caroline Weir, and to test herself against world-class opposition including Lucy Bronze.Beyond the highlights, Maria also talks about the influence of family — including her dad’s lifelong Celtic devotion (and his wish to name the family dog Larsson and how that grounding has shaped her mentality.With Celtic firmly in the title conversation this season, she discusses the squad’s ambitions, belief within the dressing room, and what it will take to turn potential into silverware.Honest, thoughtful and driven, this is a conversation that explores the mindset behind the moments and the hunger still pushing her forward.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

A major talking point has rocked the SWPL this week, with reports of a potential financial crisis raising serious questions about the league’s future.In this episode of A Level Playing Field, Hamilton Accies manager Robert Watson joins us to give his honest reaction to the story broken by Stephen McGowan. From the pressures facing clubs behind the scenes to what this could mean for players, staff, and the long-term health of the women’s game in Scotland, we dig into what happens next and why this moment matters.This is a candid, necessary conversation about sustainability, leadership, and the direction of the SWPL at a critical time.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

In this episode, we’re joined by Lauren Davidson for a brilliant chat covering the biggest moments of her career so far — and what’s still to come.Lauren takes us back to that unforgettable 92nd-minute goal at Ibrox on the final day, the strike that helped Glasgow City clinch the league title, and why it’s a moment that still follows her everywhere… even on holiday. We also dive into her move to SK Brann, life in Norway, and how she’s adapting to a new league, new culture, and a fresh challenge abroad.Plus, Lauren opens up on her ambitions with Scotland, what it would mean to be part of a World Cup campaign, and the work that goes on behind the scenes to stay ready for international football.A must-listen for Scottish women’s football fans — packed with laughs, honesty, and a proper insight into one of the game’s most exciting players.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

Filmed on location at the Hibernian Training Centre, this episode of A Level Playing Field features Hibs ace Rachael Boyle as our special guest.Rachael reflects on the shock of Grant Scott leaving Hibs for Celtic during the winter break, and she looks back on last season’s memorable title celebrations at Ibrox. She also discusses the appointment of Joelle Murray as manager and what the change has meant for the squad.The conversation goes beyond the pitch too, as Rachael opens up about balancing part-time work alongside playing, wishing her own career was only just beginning, and the pride she feels watching her daughter start her own football journey. There’s also discussion on Scotland women's national team's World Cup hopes and Hibs’ partnership with Nuby UK, highlighting the wider impact of the women’s game on and off the field.An honest, insightful episode with one of Scottish football’s most respected figures.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

Episode 5 of the A Level Playing Field Podcast features a special conversation with journalism legend Hugh McDonald, who joins Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith to reflect on a lifetime spent covering football — and the long, often difficult journey of the women’s game.Drawing on his experiences during a period when women’s football was officially banned, Hugh offers rare insight into what it meant to report on the sport at a time when it was largely ignored, dismissed, or actively discouraged. He speaks candidly about how women’s football was talked about in newsrooms, the language that was used, and the cultural barriers that shaped coverage for decades.As the conversation unfolds, Hugh charts the changes he has witnessed first-hand: from silence and marginalisation to growing visibility, respect, and legitimacy in mainstream sports reporting. He reflects on his own role as an ally of the women’s game, the responsibility journalists carry in shaping public perception, and why fair, informed coverage has always mattered — even when the sport itself was pushed to the margins.The episode also pays tribute to the players of the past who earned Hugh’s admiration long before wider recognition followed, acknowledging their talent, resilience, and influence despite the lack of platform or support. Bringing the discussion firmly into the present, Hugh shares a touching personal story about his granddaughter and how a new generation of fans are growing up with women footballers as genuine heroes — including her admiration for Caroline Weir.It’s a conversation that connects history, progress, and hope, highlighting just how far the game has come — and why the stories behind it still matter.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

On this episode of A Level Playing Field, Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith discuss an interview with Scotland and Real Madrid midfielder Caroline Weir. Caroline takes us inside her unforgettable Ballon d’Or experience, sharing what it was really like to be nominated among the world’s best and the surreal feeling of returning home to Dunfermline, where seeing her mural made her feel like a 15-year-old kid again.She also looks ahead to Scotland’s upcoming men’s clash with Brazil in Miami, explaining why she’s making the trip and what it means to see Scottish football on the global stage. The conversation turns to the Scotland women’s World Cup qualification campaign, with Caroline discussing her hopes and belief as the journey begins in March.Elsewhere, Caroline opens up about awaiting the decision on the Scotland captaincy, the responsibility that comes with leadership, and her passion beyond the pitch with her new venture, Sported, aimed at supporting young people through sport.An honest, inspiring episode with one of Scotland’s biggest footballing talents — on ambition, home, and what comes next.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

In this episode, Cheryl and Alison sit down with Partick Thistle boss Gary Holt for an honest, energetic and wide-ranging conversation. From leadership and expectations to the realities of managing in the modern game, Holt brings sharp insight and straight-talking perspective to the table.They dive into:⚽ His vision for Partick Thistle🧠 Mindset to build a winning culture📈 The pressures, challenges and opportunities facing managers today💬 Candid reflections from his careerWhether you’re a Thistle fan, a student of the game, or just love hearing from football’s most compelling voices, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

In this episode of A Level Playing Field, we dive into a huge week across the women’s game in Scotland. We start at the Scottish Women’s Football Awards, where Hibs’ deserved double triumph took centre stage, and an unforgettable night of stories, celebration, and emotion unfolded.We discuss why Hamilton Accies manager Robert Watson looks like the perfect fit for the club, and reflect on Caroline Weir’s effortless brilliance—a true Rolls-Royce of a player whose influence continues to shape the national team conversation.There’s also plenty of laughter as Rose Reilly’s hilarious Mary Corr tale from the awards makes its way into the show.We spotlight Kelly Clark’s well-earned recognition—even on a flight to Tenerife—after helping Celtic secure the title, and we share a wholehearted recommendation for Elsie Cook’s powerful book, A Kiss from Pelly.The episode also pays tribute to Joelle Murray’s extraordinary career and trademark humility, and we wrap up with admiration for Turriff United Under-18s, whose bravery and commitment has stood out. Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS 

In our debut episode, Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith look back to another huge week across the women’s game. We break down all the big talking points from the SWPL, including why Celtic still can’t get past Rangers, the shock Celtic exits that caught everyone off guard, and whether Glasgow City’s bump in the road is a momentary wobble or something more.We also look ahead to Scotland’s World Cup hopes — what needs to click, who needs to step up, and how the squad is shaping up for the challenge ahead.A brand new podcast, plenty to talk about, and a level playing field for all. Send us Fan MailSupport the showJoin A Level Playing Field for your weekly dose of women's football chat, alongside Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith! Chat to your hosts on X HERE: @alibali76 @JournoCherylS