Boots to Billing

Most athletes hit a surprising crossroads they never see coming. This episode reveals how footballers, rugby players, and other pros can pivot to lucrative careers while still playing—and why building a backup now is more crucial than ever. If you're a young athlete feeling uncertain about your future or a seasoned pro trying to make sense of life after sport, this is your blueprint for success.In this candid discussion, we explore how the skills gained on the field translate to thriving in business, sales, and the wider world. You’ll discover the evolving landscape of athlete careers, from the growing opportunities in construction, logistics, and sales, to the untapped potential of part-time football combined with other professions. Our guests share concrete frameworks like the "Transferable Skills" model—showing how the mental toughness, teamwork, and discipline of sport are highly prized in business.We break down innovative initiatives like the Life After Professional Sports (LAPS) program, and explain how athletes can leverage partnerships with organizations that understand their unique lifestyle. You'll learn why many players don’t realize coaching isn’t the only answer—and how diversifying your skills can lead to six-figure earnings, even without a full-time sports contract. Whether you're contemplating a move overseas to Dubai’s vibrant football scene or simply seeking peace of mind, this episode offers clarity on how to mentally and financially prepare for what's next.Failing to plan can mean years of struggle after your sports career ends—missed opportunities, financial hardship, and lost confidence. But by listening, you'll unlock a pathway to stability, personal growth, and real-world success, all while keeping your passion for the game alive. If you're an athlete who cares about your future, this episode will inspire you to take control—at any stage of your playing career.Join us as we chat with industry insiders who’ve been where you are—helping you navigate transitions with confidence. This is essential listening for athletes, coaches, and sports industry professionals eager to future-proof their lives and turn sporting skills into lasting success.

Most football fans and aspiring coaches overlook the extraordinary behind-the-scenes lessons from a legendary goalkeeper turned coaching icon. In this episode, Danny Lennon – with a career spanning top Scottish clubs, a memorable European night, and a hall of fame induction – reveals the secrets behind his success both on and off the pitch. Prepare for an honest, raw look at the highs and lows of football, leadership, and building a winning culture.Danny shares tales from his youth, from signing with Hibs as a kid to competing against samba legends in Bayern Munich. You’ll discover how his early days at Clyde shaped his leadership style and why a shared vision can elevate an entire team. We break down the real story behind famous moments like his unforgettable goal, and the lessons learned from managing top players like John McGinn and Kenny McLean. Plus, Danny recounts the chaos and camaraderie of Blackpool nights, and the importance of integrity and trust in leadership.You'll uncover specific strategies for fostering team unity in football and business, learned through decades of experience. Danny explains why creating a strong, aligned culture is vital, whether you're winning a Scottish Cup or leading a company. His insights on resilience, decision-making, and the importance of surrounding yourself with honest, challenge-loving people will resonate with entrepreneurs, managers, and sports enthusiasts alike.Why does this episode matter? Because the principles Danny discusses—leadership, perseverance, authenticity—apply universally. Whether you're growing a startup, managing a team, or striving for personal excellence, his stories and lessons provide a blueprint for success beyond the game. Missing out could mean overlooking the vital mindset shifts required to turn setbacks into comebacks.This episode is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their leadership, learn from authentic sports stories, or find motivation to push through tough times. With insights grounded in real experience, Danny Lennon proves that the qualities of a top athlete are the same qualities needed to succeed in any arena. Hit play and discover how to unlock your potential, just like the legend himself.

Most people see a footballer and assume fame and fortune. Joe Savage’s journey behind the scenes reveals a different story—one of relentless passion, hard-earned wisdom, and the sharp transition from player to top-tier scout and sporting director. This episode is a masterclass in persistence, skill, and the unseen work that keeps clubs at the top. If you're dreaming of a career in football—whether on the pitch or behind the scenes—Joe’s candid insights will change the game.Joe Savage’s career is a rollercoaster of ambition and resilience. From modest beginnings in amateur leagues, he fought his way through the Scottish tiers—playing for Hamilton Accies, East Stirling, and many others—to reach the Premier League at 30. Despite countless setbacks, injuries, and moments of self-doubt, Joe’s dedication never wavered. His honesty about his laziness, frustrations, and sacrifices paints a raw picture of professional football’s reality—far from the glamorous image most see. Now, as a successful scout and director, Joe shares the secrets of how genuine talent, relentless curiosity, and resilience turn amateur players into league legends and scouts into valuable assets.In this episode, we break down:The "hidden skills" that make scouts and sports directors invaluable, beyond raw talent or traditional coaching.The importance of transferable skills—how communication, analysis, and curiosity can launch a second career in football.The evolving role of data, AI, and technology in scouting, player development, and strategic decision-making.The real stories behind club transfers, from signing future stars like James Madison to managing big-name players under pressure.Practical advice for players eyeing life after football—why continuous learning and networking are key, and how to navigate trials, contracts, and career transitions.Why does all this matter? Because the difference between a decent career and an exceptional one often hinges on unseen work, mindset, and opportunity. Joe’s journey demonstrates how embracing curiosity, humility, and relentless effort opens doors even when the odds seem stacked against you. Whether you're a fan of football or aspire to work in sports management, understanding these behind-the-scenes truths offers a fresh perspective—and tools to succeed.This episode is perfect for aspiring scouts, players preparing for transition, coaches, and anyone curious about what it takes to stay relevant in modern football. Joe Savage’s story reminds us that it’s not just talent—it's about staying hungry, adaptable, and never settling for the surface. Hit play and discover how the best in the game keep evolving, influencing, and shaping football from behind the scenes.

Most aspiring footballers and sports enthusiasts overlook the mental resilience needed to survive the highs and lows of a career. Tony McParland's journey from youth prodigy at Celtic to navigating injury setbacks, club turnarounds, and life after football reveals priceless lessons about perseverance, mindset, and the unspoken struggles behind the sport’s glitz.In this candid episode, Tony opens up about the reality of dropping out of elite football, from the pitch to plumbing tools, and eventually building a thriving business that leverages his sports experience. You'll discover how injuries, mental health challenges, and external pressures threatened to derail his career – and the strategies he used to bounce back stronger than ever. He shares invaluable insights for players on the cusp of their careers, emphasizing the importance of accumulating first-team appearances early and cultivating resilience to withstand inevitable setbacks. We break down:How to develop mental toughness when facing career-ending injuries or rejectionThe hidden value of lower league and junior football for personal growthWhy modern youth training might be missing the mark and how street football shaped Tony’s skill setThe shifting landscape of football development and the importance of experience over tacticsPractical advice for athletes transitioning out of sport and building a second careerWhy does this episode matter? Because understanding the real sacrifices behind the game prepares players for longevity and life beyond football. Tony’s story underscores that success isn’t just talent—it’s resilience, adaptability, and knowing when to pivot. Whether you're a young prospect, a worried parent, or a sports fanatic, you’ll walk away with actionable lessons to protect and maximize your sporting journey.Perfect for current players, coaches, or anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes realities of professional sports. Tune in to hear firsthand how setbacks can become setups for future success—and why resilience is the greatest game-changer.

Most managers are stuck in old-school coaching methods—John McGlynn, Falkirk’s inspiring leader, proves that high standards, genuine care and leading by example can transform a modest budget into a winning culture.In this candid episode, John shares his journey from youth teams to leading Falkirk in one of Scottish football’s most competitive leagues. Discover how his commitment to high standards, building strong relationships and creating a professional environment ignited a tight-knit, competitive squad that defies expectations despite a limited budget.You'll find out:How John’s early coaching philosophy centered around integrity and setting high standards—values he ingrains in his team todayThe importance of the entire football community—backroom staff, players, and even physical environments—in building a success cultureWhy attention to detail—like building a boot room or getting the basics right—can define a team’s identityThe role of honesty, humility and relentless hard work in climbing from League One to a semi-final Scottish Cup appearanceHow forging genuine relationships and fostering camaraderie fuels performance and resilience, even when resources are tightThis episode is essential listening for coaches, leaders, and sports enthusiasts—anyone motivated by stories of how grit, authenticity and leadership can turn modest ambitions into triumphs. If you believe in the power of culture and teamwork over budget and superstardom, John McGlynn’s insights will inspire you to rethink what’s possible.The stakes are clear: develop not just better players, but better human beings. Whether you're managing a team or leading in business, John’s lessons on discipline, environment and relationship-building offer universal strategies to create a winning culture.Ready to challenge the status quo and learn how to lead with integrity, build resilience, and inspire excellence—regardless of resources? Hit play and discover how John McGlynn’s approach could redefine your leadership game.🎧 Boots to Billing with Alan McFadden & Chris Fahey📩 Reach out if you're in transition — a conversation is all it takes.This episode is proudly sponsored by:Pitch to Placements – Founded by Alan McFadden, Pitch to Placements is a training and placement company designed specifically for former footballers transitioning into sales and recruitment careers in the UK and Dubai. Whether your career has ended early through injury, release, or retirement, the skills you've built through football – resilience, communication, competitiveness, and thick skin – make you tailor-made for sales. If you're a former player looking for what comes next, reach out for a conversation.🌐 www.pitchtoplacements.co.uk📱 Available on all social media platformsAGPayroll – Glasgow-based AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and in over 160 countries worldwide. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, limited company, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll.🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk📞 0333 034 1472📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ

Mark Corcoran made over 300 senior appearances across Hamilton, St Mirren, Ross County, Partick Thistle and Stranraer — but what he did after football is what really turns heads.With just £300 and a mate in Thailand, Mark co-founded Be Inspired Clothing and grew it into one of the UK's biggest streetwear brands. Along the way, Lionel Messi ended up wearing his gear to board a private jet. Suarez rocked it at the Ballon d'Or. Andy Robertson was buying it before Liverpool even came calling.In this episode, Mark talks about the coffee club that sparked the idea, the jumper disaster that nearly killed the brand on day one, and why the skills you build in a football dressing room are the exact same ones that make you dangerous in business.If you're a footballer wondering what comes next — or anyone thinking about starting something from nothing — this one's for you.🎧 Boots to Billing with Alan McFadden & Chris Fahey📩 Reach out if you're in transition — a conversation is all it takes.This episode is proudly sponsored by:Pitch to Placements – Founded by Alan McFadden, Pitch to Placements is a training and placement company designed specifically for former footballers transitioning into sales and recruitment careers in the UK and Dubai. Whether your career has ended early through injury, release, or retirement, the skills you've built through football – resilience, communication, competitiveness, and thick skin – make you tailor-made for sales. If you're a former player looking for what comes next, reach out for a conversation.🌐 www.pitchtoplacements.co.uk📱 Available on all social media platformsAGPayroll – Glasgow-based AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and in over 160 countries worldwide. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, limited company, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll.🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk📞 0333 034 1472📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZBEBA Travel - Private minibus hire, executive airport transfers, and group travel done right. Biba Travel have just rolled out a brand new fleet — complete with champagne tables — because why shouldn't the journey be as good as the destination? Pitch to Placements use them all the time for clients and can't recommend them enough.Run by Billy — top guy, top service.🌐 www.instagram.com/beb4travelltd/?hl=en🌐 www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572544450250&locale=en_GB

In the second part of this brilliant conversation, Alan McFadden and Chris Fahey continue with Tam McManus as the stories get even bigger and the honesty cuts even deeper.Tam picks up where he left off – from Wayne Rooney putting him in a headlock as a 15-year-old to setting up Rooney's goal years later in a testimonial at Dunfermline, after Nemanja Vidić had already tried to take his head off. There are cracking tales from his time at Dundee, the heartbreak of relegation on the final day at Livingston, and how a move to Motherwell with Terry Butcher should have been the right call – but Dundee's signing-on fee proved too tempting.The Colorado Rapids chapter is pure gold – altitude sickness, fans clapping missed sitters, playing against David Beckham, and the commentary that had to be heard to be believed. Then it's on to Derry City, where envelopes of cash turned into double contracts, unpaid wages, and a club that eventually went bust – but not before Tam scored his one and only European goal in Latvia.Back in Scotland, there's a genuinely touching story about Steven Pressley at Falkirk. A man Tam couldn't stand as a player, who quietly gave up his own win bonuses and appearance money so Tam could earn a decent wage while injured. It completely changed how Tam saw him – and explains why Elvis is doing so well as a manager now.The conversation turns to life after football and it hits hard. Tam opens up about the transition from professional footballer to selling stationery, the nerves of starting a job he knew nothing about, and the moment he realised people were buying from him – not the company. Alan and Chris make a passionate case for why more needs to be done to help players find their next step, and reveal exciting new plans to place former footballers into sales careers in Dubai.Funny, honest, and packed with stories you won't hear anywhere else.This episode is proudly sponsored by:Pitch to Placements – Founded by Alan McFadden, Pitch to Placements is a training and placement company designed specifically for former footballers transitioning into sales and recruitment careers in the UK and Dubai. Whether your career has ended early through injury, release, or retirement, the skills you've built through football – resilience, communication, competitiveness, and thick skin – make you tailor-made for sales. If you're a former player looking for what comes next, reach out for a conversation.🌐 www.pitchtoplacements.co.uk📱 Available on all social media platformsAGPayroll – Glasgow-based AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and in over 160 countries worldwide. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, limited company, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll.🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk📞 0333 034 1472📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ

In this episode, Alan McFadden and Chris Fahey sit down with former Hibs striker Tam McManus for a conversation packed with incredible stories, big characters, and plenty of laughs.Tam takes us back to his days playing in the cage at Sighthill with Celtic North, getting spotted by Hibs scout Roger McElvie, and the night Donald Park turned up frozen stiff after driving around in a snowstorm for two hours just to sign him. From there, it was a YTS at Easter Road, cleaning Chick Charnley's boots, and working his way into a first team packed with talent under Alex McLeish – a manager Tam rates as the best he's ever worked under.There are brilliant stories throughout – Russell Latapy turning up for a trial smoking a fag outside the changing room before producing a Cruyff turn and a 40-yard pass on a boggy pitch, only for McLeish to pull him off after 25 minutes and sign him on the spot. A trip to Trinidad and Tobago where Latapy was treated like royalty and Brian Lara walked into their local pub. And the time a teenage Scott Brown announced himself with a bone-crunching tackle in a reserve match against Hearts that left everyone in the ground asking who the wee boy at right back was.Tam also opens up about spending six weeks living alongside Paul Gascoigne at Boston United – travelling to training together, getting dragged along to Question of Sport, watching England in the pub while fans lined up pints in front of Gazza, and witnessing his incredible generosity with a young girl collecting for cancer treatment outside the stadium.There's honest reflection too – the wrong move to Dundee over Motherwell, the heartbreak of relegation on the final day at Livingston, and arriving at Falkirk on the same day as an 18-year-old Anthony Stokes who promptly scored a hat-trick and kept him out the team.Alan and Chris also dive into a brilliant debate about why Scottish football has stopped producing strikers, the death of the 4-4-2, and why nobody wants to be a number nine anymore.One of the funniest and most entertaining episodes yet – and we haven't even got to Wayne Rooney putting Tam in a headlock at 15 years old.This episode is proudly sponsored by:Pitch to Placements – Founded by Alan McFadden, Pitch to Placements is a training and placement company designed specifically for former footballers transitioning into sales and recruitment careers in the UK and Dubai. Whether your career has ended early through injury, release, or retirement, the skills you've built through football – resilience, communication, competitiveness, and thick skin – make you tailor-made for sales. Pitch to Placements provides the coaching, community, and corporate opportunities to help you take the next step. If you're a former player looking for what comes next, reach out for a conversation.🌐 www.pitchtoplacements.co.uk📱 Available on all social media platformsAGPayroll – Glasgow-based AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and in over 160 countries worldwide. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, limited company, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll.🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk📞 0333 034 1472📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ

In the second part of this powerful conversation, Alan McFadden and Chris Fahey go deeper with Ryan Stevenson into the reality of life after football – and it doesn't hold back.Ryan opens up about the devastating impact of retirement, divorce, and losing his identity all at once. He speaks with raw honesty about spiralling to a place where he was googling how to end his life, running up a hill near his village and planning a date to go through with it. It's a conversation that will stop you in your tracks – and one that could genuinely save lives.But there's hope in this story too. Ryan shares how a chance Instagram message to his now wife Sarah became the turning point he desperately needed, and how a mentor in Neil Watt helped him find a new path through property management – growing a business from one property to over 7,000.Together, the three of them make a passionate case for why more needs to be done to support players transitioning out of the game, and why the skills footballers have are massively undervalued in the business world.There are lighter moments too – including some brilliant stories about Jimmy Bullard turning up to training in fishing waders and sitting through team meetings in ways only he could get away with.An essential listen for anyone connected to football – and a reminder that behind the goals and the glory, there's a human being trying to figure out what comes next.If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts, please reach out. You can contact the Samaritans free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.This episode is proudly sponsored by:AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and internationally. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll. Recently awarded FCSA accreditation, you know you're in safe, compliant hands.🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk📞 0333 034 1472📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZSustainable Packaging Scotland – Scotland's fastest growing packaging distribution company. They're passionate about reducing your costs and making your packaging greener, without compromising on quality.🌐 www.sustainablepackagingscotland.co.uk📞 0141 648 7120📸 Instagram: @sustainablepackagingscotland💼 LinkedIn: Sustainable Packaging ScotlandEastwood Twelve Golf Club – A cracking 12-hole course in Newton Mearns, near Glasgow, with quirky holes, stunning scenery, and a brilliant café and bar, The 13th. They've frozen their 2025 membership fees for a limited time before switching to 2026 pricing, so get yourself along for a round before they change. You won't be disappointed.🌐 www.eastwoodtwelve.co.uk📞 07729 664555📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @eastwoodtwelve📍 Eastwood Estate, Mearns Road, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow, G77 6RX

In this episode, Alan McFadden and Chris Fahey sit down with Ryan Stevenson – a man who racked up over 390 senior appearances across Scotland and England, and whose football journey started with a pair of Maradona Puma Kings in his front garden in Ayrshire.Ryan opens up about being spotted by Chelsea at just 13, flying between Scotland and London on his own, and sharing digs with a young John Terry. He talks honestly about what it was really like – the bright lights of Stamford Bridge, but also the loneliness, the £60-a-week wages, and missing out on a childhood back home.There are brilliant stories along the way – John Terry's short-lived Mercury convertible, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's generosity, and the senior pros who slipped the young lads a few quid for playing well. Ryan also shares the moment his grandpa stood on the Tynecastle pitch and said the words that stuck with him forever.Beyond the stories, Ryan doesn't hold back on where he thinks Scottish football is falling short – from the lack of duty of care towards young players, to the massive gap between the Scottish and English PFAs, and why clubs should be employing ex-players to guide the next generation.A proper honest conversation about the realities behind the dream.This episode is proudly sponsored by:AGPayroll, owned by our very own co-host Chris Fahey, offers hassle-free payroll solutions for contractors, recruitment agencies, and employers across the UK and internationally. Whether it's umbrella, CIS, or fully outsourced payroll, they combine cutting-edge technology with a personal touch to take the stress out of payroll. Recently awarded FCSA accreditation, you know you're in safe, compliant hands.🌐 www.agpayroll.co.uk📞 0333 034 1472📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZSustainable Packaging Scotland – Scotland's fastest growing packaging distribution company. They're passionate about reducing your costs and making your packaging greener, without compromising on quality.🌐 www.sustainablepackagingscotland.co.uk📞 0141 648 7120📸 Instagram: @sustainablepackagingscotland💼 LinkedIn: Sustainable Packaging ScotlandEastwood Twelve Golf Club – A cracking 12-hole course in Newton Mearns, near Glasgow, with quirky holes, stunning scenery, and a brilliant café and bar, The 13th. They've frozen their 2025 membership fees for a limited time before switching to 2026 pricing, so get yourself along for a round before they change. You won't be disappointed.🌐 www.eastwoodtwelve.co.uk📞 07729 664555📧 [email protected]📸 Instagram: @eastwoodtwelve📍 Eastwood Estate, Mearns Road, East Renfrewshire, Glasgow, G77 6RX

In part two of this powerful episode, Kyle Lafferty kicks things off with hilarious stories from his time at Kilmarnock under Derek McInnes. From setting off industrial-sized fireworks in the stadium that had the police called and an elderly neighbour reporting an "explosion," to orchestrating a naked "orchestra" in the dressing room to welcome new signings (complete with bagpipes and guitars made from teammates), Kyle reveals why that dressing room was one of the best he'd ever been in – and why manager Derek McInnes had to have a word about "please, no more fireworks."But the conversation takes a more serious turn as Kyle opens up about the darker side of his football career – a gambling addiction that consumed his life from the age of 12 and nearly cost him everything. Kyle shares brutally honest stories about placing bets at half-time during matches, betting on his phone whilst warming up for games, and how the addiction spiralled completely out of control. He explains how the buzz from gambling became bigger than the buzz from scoring goals, and how betting companies would send him thousands in "goodwill gestures" knowing they'd get it back tenfold.Kyle discusses getting fined by the SFA, the shame of coming out publicly whilst at Hearts (and having coins thrown at him during warm-up at Easter Road), and why he believes there's a massive double standard in punishing players for gambling whilst football is saturated with betting advertisements. He talks candidly about Gamblers Anonymous meetings, why owning up to your problem is the first step, and how his life has completely changed in 19 months of being clean. He explains why he can now have £100 in his wallet for a week when previously £1,000 would be gone in an afternoon.Kyle finishes by discussing his passion project – his own football academy, where he's stripping kids back to basics and teaching them the skills he learned from the best. He wants to give young players the opportunity to maximise their potential, and his message to anyone struggling with addiction is clear: there is help out there, and recovery is possible.A raw, emotional, and inspiring conversation about dressing room chaos, the realities of addiction, the importance of mental health support in football, and the power of second chances.This podcast is sponsored by AGPayroll.

This is the first in a two-part series of the Boots to Billing podcast, where host Alan McFadden and co-host Chris Fahey sit down with Northern Ireland legend Kyle Lafferty – the country's second-highest ever goal scorer, who won everything in Scottish football and played across Europe.Kyle opens up about his remarkable journey from a tiny village of 2,000 people in Northern Ireland, where dreams of professional football seemed impossible, to signing for Burnley at just 15 and leaving home for the first time. He shares the emotional reality of being a homesick teenager in digs with seven cats, and how sheer determination and focus kept him going.The conversation dives deep into the transfer saga that brought him to Rangers – how he turned down Celtic out of loyalty to the club he'd supported his entire life, and what it was like to walk into Ibrox for the first time. Kyle reflects on playing under the legendary Walter Smith, a proper father figure who knew about your family before he knew about your football, and why that man-management made all the difference.Kyle doesn't shy away from addressing his reputation, admitting to "daft stuff" done as a naive 20-year-old thrust into one of the world's biggest clubs. He discusses the immense pressure of playing for Rangers, why it's harder than people think, and how he found it easier to score against Celtic when playing for other clubs.He also takes us inside his time playing abroad – particularly in Italy with Palermo, where he experienced Serie B football, ultras confronting players in restaurants, and the reality of Mafia influence on everyday life. Kyle explains why he believes more British players should move abroad and why he loved the lifestyle and challenge of Italian football.This episode is sponsored by AGPayroll.

In this episode of the Boots to Billing podcast, host Alan McFadden and co-host Chris Fahey sit down with former Scottish football prodigy Jamie McCluskey, who at just 16 became the youngest player to appear in the SPL for Hibernian.Jamie opens up about his incredible journey through Scottish football – from convincing a young Steven Fletcher to come along to his Hibs trial, to rubbing shoulders with legends like Derek Riordan, Gary Caldwell, and Stephen Glass in the Easter Road dressing room. He shares honest reflections on what it was like to be thrown into first-team training as a fearless teenager and why he believes that mentality has been lost in the modern game.The conversation takes us through the highs and lows of his career – from European nights to injury setbacks, a surreal trial at Partizan Belgrade where his dad told him to "take the jail sentence" rather than come home, and finding his feet at Wrexham under Dean Saunders.Jamie also reflects on winning the Scottish League title alongside his younger brother Stefan – a moment that brought his football journey full circle. Now successfully transitioned into business, Jamie discusses the parallels between the dressing room and the boardroom, and why the skills learned in football translate so well into sales and recruitment.This episode was sponsored by Radio – Glasgow's brand new Irish-American bar on Soho Street, owned by former footballer Adam Coley. Good Guinness, live music, and amazing pizza slices.

In this episode of the Boots to Billing podcast, host Alan McFadden and co-host Chris Fahey sit down with former Scottish footballer Lee Mair to explore his remarkable journey — from playing against Bayern Munich to selling photocopiers, and ultimately finding success in the world of business.Lee opens up about life inside the game, sharing honest reflections on the culture and mentality within football dressing rooms, and the importance of mental health awareness for players at every level. He recalls his early days at Dundee, rubbing shoulders with superstars like Fabrizio Ravanelli and Claudio Caniggia, and the lessons learned from those experiences that shaped his outlook on teamwork and professionalism.Having gone on to lift the League Cup with St Mirren, Lee reflects on the emotional highs of cup finals, the challenges of loans and managerial changes, and how those moments built the resilience that would later serve him in business.The conversation dives into the transition from football to life after the game, with Lee sharing how he had to rebuild his identity, learn new skills, and embrace personal development. He discusses the parallels between football and business — from maintaining a winning mentality to building the right culture, team, and mindset for long-term success.This podcast is created by ⁠Pitch to Placements⁠ in collaboration with ⁠AGPayroll⁠. This episode was sponsored by Dapperwolf Barber Club.

In this powerful episode of Boots to Billing, hosts Alan McFadden and Chris Fahey sit down with Scottish football journeyman and FIFA Licensed football agent Scott McLaughlin for an honest and eye-opening conversation about life in and after professional football.Scott takes us through his impressive 21-year career, starting as a 16-year-old at Hamilton Academical, playing in the Scottish Premier League with Livingston, and featuring for clubs including Morton, Airdrie United, and Clyde. Along the way, he shares brilliant stories about legendary teammates like "Big Marv" Andrews, Robert Snodgrass, and the unforgettable Andy McLaren.But the conversation takes a profound turn as Scott opens up about his mental health struggles after retiring from football. From the devastating hit-and-run accident that nearly killed him to the crippling anxiety and depression that followed, Scott reveals the reality behind the "invincible" footballer persona. His candid discussion about seeking help, finding the right support, and eventually rebuilding his life through personal training and football agency work provides hope and inspiration for anyone struggling with similar issues.Scott and the hosts also tackle the lack of post-career support for footballers, the importance of speaking to the right people about mental health, and why charities like Back Onside are doing crucial work that clubs themselves often neglect.This episode is essential listening for anyone connected to football, mental health advocacy, or anyone who's ever wondered what happens when the final whistle blows on a playing career.Boots to Billings - where football careers become business success stories.This podcast is created by ⁠Pitch to Placements⁠ in collaboration with ⁠AGPayroll⁠. This episode was sponsored by Back Onside.

Check out this clip from our chat with Nicki Paterson - "The Scottish Frank Lampard"From Vegas nightclubs with Mike Tyson to training with Thierry Henry at New York Red Bulls, then back to his mum's spare room wondering what's next.Now he's one of the UK's top sales performers. This is how you turn football heartbreak into business success.Watch and listen along wherever you get your podcasts: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube. Search for Boots to Billings. Don’t forget to like, subscribe and leave a comment wherever you listen to podcasts.This podcast was created by Pitch to Placements in collaboration with AGPayroll.

Meet Nicki Paterson - the man a football manager once called "The Scottish Frank Lampard," and you're about to discover why.Picture this: A 16-year-old lad from Hamilton, playing part-time football and feeling like his dreams are slipping away. Fast forward eight years, and he's sharing a training pitch with Thierry Henry at New York Red Bulls, living the American dream with a beautiful stadium, proper money, and crowds of 20,000.But football, as every player knows, can be cruel.One tackle. One injury. One phone call from home. Suddenly, Nicko's back in Scotland, sleeping in his mum and dad's spare room, wondering what the hell happens next. The contract offers have dried up. The lifestyle's gone. And he's got a family to support.This is where most football stories end in disappointment. But Nicki's story? This is where it gets interesting.Ready to discover how your football story becomes your business superpower?This is more than a podcast episode - it's a blueprint for transformation. Whether you're hanging up your boots tomorrow or planning for life after football, Nicki Paterson's journey will change how you see your future.Hit play, and prepare to see your football experience in a completely different light.Boots to Billings - where football careers become business success stories.This podcast is created by Pitch to Placements in collaboration with AGPayroll.