The SportsGrad Podcast

Breaking into the Premier League is no easy feat, but that’s exactly what, Dane Hinchy, did.After starting his own Football eCommerce business in Australia, Dane took the leap and moved to the UK, where he landed a job with Brighton & Hove Albion as part of the club’s digital team, working behind the scenes at one of the most exciting teams in the Premier League.In this episode, we break down how Dane made the move, what it took to get hired, and what life is really like working in football at the top level. If you’ve ever thought about taking your career overseas, this one’s for you.Enjoy!In this ep, we cover:(00:00) Introduction(01:27) Quick Fire Questions(05:38) What is Dane working on at the moment?(10:38) How did Dane build his business from scratch?(13:21) How was Dane's experience at university?(14:48) What factors and experiences shaped the direction of Dane's career?(22:27) Dane's approach to networking(29:38) How did Dane stand out during his interview at Brighton FC(35:30) What does Dane's day-to-day look like?(40:45) What skills has Dane had to work on to excel in his role?(43:18) What is one thing Dane would do differently if starting over?*If you like this ep, give these a go next:#296: Manchester FC, Head of Research | Tom Wilkins#290: 2025 FISU World University Games, Manager of Delegation Services | Mirinda Kidman#251: DMC Sport, Commercial Director | Chris Dobson*Want to break into sport quickly? Apply for the SportsGrad Accelerator (the fastest path to a job in sport):Stay up to day with job and networking opportunities - Subscribe to the SportsGrad Newsletter-Follow SportsGrad on LinkedIn-Follow SportsGrad on Instagram-Follow SportsGrad on TikTok-Follow Reuben Williams on LinkedIn-Follow Reuben Williams on Instagram-Follow Reuben Williams on TikTokBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible. Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia: www.deakin.edu.auThanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s about time I reintroduced myself! Today I’m going to share with you my journey in sport. Before diving headfirst into SportsGrad I experienced the unrelenting grind and overwhelming relief of breaking into sport.We’re talking failed exams, fired from jobs, dropping out of uni, internships in France, a dream job at Cricket Australia, travelling the country with international teams, and much more.If you’re wondering who is this Reuben guy behind SportsGrad, well this episode reveals all.Enjoy!We cover:06:27 – Dropping out and struggling through uni10:18 – Landing an internship that sent me to France13:21 – Meeting my mentor Wayne Oswald17:32 – Building the resume that landed me a dream job19:08 – Building the relationship that landed me a dream job20:34 – Answering 'what experience are you most proud of?'23:05 – What it was like to work at Cricket Australia as your first job25:01 – What it was like dealing with a sexual assault (let alone the ball-tampering scandal)27:40 – Leading a marketing campaign for the Women’s T20 World Cup30:44 – Working with the New Zealand Women’s Cricket Team as a Team Liaison Officer34:09 – Being made redundant and doubling my salary in the process35:44 – Working at the Men's T20 World Cup with the UAE Team as a Team Liaison Officer42:02 – Getting stranded in Dubai and being rescued by cricket connections45:30 – The joys of working in sport*If you like this ep, give these a go next:#297: Reuben in Paris (what it was actually like to attend the Olympic Games)#308: How to land a job in 2025#255: Transformative Goal Setting - The Career Operating System that changed my life*-Follow SportsGrad on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok-Follow Reuben Williams on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok-Subscribe to the SportsGrad newsletter for job and networking opportunities-Apply for the SportsGrad Accelerator to take the fastest path to a job in sportBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible. Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia.Thanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Landing a job in sport shouldn't feel like pushing a boulder uphill. Dive into this ep to hear how Reuben breaks it down very simply to give you a framework for success.We cover:(03:27) Community update(04:28) Events to look out for in 2025(06:38) How to get a job in sport in 2025(23:38) 'The SportsGrad Method' launching in 2025To apply for The SportsGrad Method, take the career audit.If you like this ep, give these a go next:#300: How to land a job in sport (without relying on luck) *Follow SportsGrad on LinkedInFollow @sportsgrad on InstagramFollow SportsGrad on TikTokFollow Reuben Williams on LinkedInFollow Reuben Williams on InstagramFollow Reuben Williams on TikTokSubscribe to the SportsGrad newsletter for job & networking opportunities: www.sportsgrad.com.au/eventsBecome a SportsGrad Member to shortcut your next job in sport: www.sportsgrad.com.auBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible. Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia.Thanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Jessica Robinson, Digital Production Specialist at Code Sports.With a knack for storytelling, Jess blends digital media, journalism, and creative production to craft engaging sports content. From managing social media strategies to enhancing audience engagement, she’s driving Code Sports’ growth in the competitive sports media industry.Previously, Jess honed her skills in roles with Basketball Australia, the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, and the Australian Open, bringing expertise in journalism, public relations, and digital production.If you’re looking for insights into breaking into the sports industry, networking effectively, and mastering the digital skills demanded in today’s market, Jess’s journey offers a roadmap. Learn how she turned challenges into opportunities and leveraged her skills to make her mark in the sports world.We cover:(11:32) Jessica's interview with SportsGrad at the Aus GP(13:37) Quick Fire Questions(18:04) Jessica's role at CODE Sports(23:33) What KPIs journalists work towards(25:59) Jessica's career journey(29:25) Challenges people face in getting a job in sport(31:23) How Jessica sought career direction(35:18) How Jessica's Resume stood out from the rest(40:19) Jessica's advice to her younger self*If you like this ep, give these a go next:#302: Paris 2024, Content Creator | Stella Barry#293: Making the Call, Sports Broadcasters | Lucy and Emma Race#252: FIFA Women's World Cup, Media Volunteer | Vi Truong#197: Australian Grand Prix Corporation, Social Media Coordinator | Sophie Reis*- Follow SportsGrad on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok- Follow Reuben Williams on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok- Subscribe to the SportsGrad newsletter for job & networking opportunities: www.sportsgrad.com.au/events- Become a SportsGrad Member to shortcut your next job in sport: www.sportsgrad.com.auBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible. Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia.Thanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Billie Lewis, the Strength and Conditioning Lead at the Dandenong Stingrays.Billie’s role involves managing the physical development of young athletes to ensure they’re ready to excel on game days. With her knack for building rapport and meticulous attention to detail, Billie has earned her place as a trusted leader at the Stingrays.Before this, Billie worked at St Kilda Football Club in Membership and later transitioned into coaching through persistence and strategic networking. Her journey from a sport management diploma to an exercise science degree and now working with elite athletes is filled with valuable lessons for aspiring sports professionals unsure which direction to take.If you’re curious about breaking into high-performance roles or want to learn how to navigate the world of sports while building confidence, this is a story you’ll want to explore.We cover:(05:37) - How Billie became a SportsGrad member(07:07) - Quick Fire Questions(13:12) - Billie's journey to landing her current role(17:36) - How Billie decided on majoring in strength and conditioning(20:14) - The story behind Billie's 'why' for working in sport(22:55) - How networking has helped Billie along her journey(25:56) - What a day in Billie's role looks like(29:43) - How Billie builds rapport with athletes(34:30) - "Pinch me" moments Billie experienced(37:14) - What Billie would have done if not for a role in sportIf you like this ep, give these a go next:#215: National Recruiting Manager, Gold Coast Suns FC | Kall Burns#240: Biomechanist, Victorian Institute of Sport | Victoria Brackley #275: Audience Growth & Engagement Coordinator, Richmond FC | Shayla Clarke #284: Football Operations Manager, Sydney Football Club | Steph Maiolo *- Follow SportsGrad on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok:- Follow Reuben Williams on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok - Subscribe to the SportsGrad newsletter for job & networking opportunities: www.sportsgrad.com.au/events- Become a SportsGrad Member to shortcut your next job in sport: www.sportsgrad.com.auBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible. Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia.Thanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Adrian Cordi, a Game Development Officer for the AFL in NSW. If you are looking for a way to break into the sports industry, this job is one of the best positions going around to help you get a foot in.Game dev roles exist in all the major sporting bodies and receive the most funding because your job is to get more people playing the sport.Adrian details exactly how he landed this job, what he did to be successful in his group interview, and what’s involved. Grab a pen, because this might just be your big break.We cover:(8:35) - Introduction to Adrian's journey(12:10) - From teaching in Japan to joining the AFL(16:25) - Game Development Officer role explained(20:15) - Grassroots initiatives & fan growth(24:00) - Promoting AFL through school programs(27:45) - Engaging kids and building AFL passion(31:30) - Group interviews and practical sessions(35:10) - Testing teaching and leadership skills(38:25) - Advice for breaking into sports roles(41:00) - Networking and mentorship importanceIf you like this ep, give these a go next:#288: Champion Data, Competitions Coordinator | Ash Newton-Spence#262: Football Australia, World Cup Legacy Manager | Francesca Teh#211: AFL, Commercial Partnerships Coordinator | Brant Hubber*-Follow SportsGrad on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok-Follow Reuben Williams on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok-Subscribe to the SportsGrad newsletter for job and networking opportunities-Become a SportsGrad Member to shortcut your next job in sportBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible.Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia.Thanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Allison Robison, the Executive General Manager of People and Culture at Cricket Australia. Allison leads recruitment and culture for one of the nation's most iconic sports organisations, helping build teams that bring cricket to life. Her insights into hiring practices, including strategies for acing interviews and crafting standout applications, are invaluable.With a background in senior roles at National Australia Bank and board positions at Swimming Australia and Athletics Victoria, Allison has a wealth of experience in people management and recruitment strategies. She has also been a driving force in promoting the importance of relationships and networking in career success.If you're a young job hunter seeking to break into the competitive sports industry without the anxiety of endless rejections, Allison’s advice will help you approach the job hunt with confidence. Learn about avoiding job-hunting mistakes, crafting compelling applications, and networking your way to opportunities in sport.We cover:(8:27) - Introduction to Alison Robison and her role(11:45) - Key strategies for standing out in job applications(14:30) - Understanding the recruitment process at Cricket Australia(18:00) - Networking: The cornerstone of career success(21:10) - Building relationships within the sports industry(25:00) - Role of AI in recruitment and its implications(28:45) - How to tailor resumes to job descriptions effectively(32:15) - Tips for succeeding in behavioural interviews(36:00) - Importance of showcasing personality and passion(39:10) - Final advice for navigating job applicationsIf you like this ep, give these a go next:#1: Ex-ICC T20 World Cup 2020, HR Manager | Ally Dirkis#110: Ex-Golf Australia, People & Culture Manager | Daniel Simons#128: Netball Australia, GM People & Culture | Kimberlee Furness#155: Australian Sports Commission, HR Business Partner | Adam Kyle*-Follow SportsGrad on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok -Follow Reuben Williams on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok -Subscribe to the SportsGrad newsletter for job and networking opportunities -Become a SportsGrad Member to shortcut your next job in sportBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible. Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia.Thanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Sam Waring, a Strategy Consultant at Gemba. Sam assists brands like Coca-Cola, McDonald’s and Netflix with with their sponsorship strategy across sports and entertainment.Before he was mixing in the big leagues, Sam started his journey as a Marketing Intern with the NZ Breakers before making his way to Australia. After getting rejected for his current role once, Sam stepped away and addressed his skill gaps, only to return and land his dream job.Sam’s story is packed with advice on overcoming rejections, staying persistent, and building your skillset. If you’re eager to understand the behind-the-scenes of a career in sports marketing and strategy, you’re going to love this episode with Sam.We cover:(6:57) - Introduction to Sam's career and journey(11:23) - Breaking into the sports industry and early experiences(16:45) - Challenges of landing jobs in competitive sports roles(21:30) - Importance of sponsorships in sports marketing(27:15) - Developing strategies for brand partnerships(33:00) - Insights into working with high-profile clients like Coca-Cola(38:20) - Bridging creative and commercial strategies(43:50) - How agency work differs from in-house roles(48:30) - Examples of successful sports campaigns(54:00) - Advice on networking and career growth in sports*If you like this ep, give these a go next:#175: Gemba, Senior Strategy Consultant | Oliver Gilbert#287: MKTG Sports + Entertainment, Sponsorship Manager | Jeffery Leong#99: Octagon UK, Managing Director | Joel Seymour-Hyde#236: Sports Marketing Consultant | Danny Bowerin*-Follow SportsGrad on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok -Follow Reuben Williams on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok -Subscribe to the SportsGrad newsletter for job and networking opportunities -Become a SportsGrad Member to shortcut your next job in sportBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible. Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia.Thanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Stella Barry, a Social Media Producer for both the Australian Open and the Paris 2024 Olympics. Stella’s work involves creating engaging social media content, where at the Paris 2024 Olympics, she managed influencer partnerships and creatively leveraged trends to engage younger audiences.With previous experience working at IMG Academy and Nebraska University, Stella’s social media expertise was honed through hands-on roles where she developed content and learned video production, storytelling, and athlete engagement. Her experiences, including working with major global sporting events, provided her with unique insights into the world of digital content in sports.If you're struggling to break into the sports industry, Stella’s journey offers valuable advice on the power of networking, resilience in the face of rejection, and the importance of gaining diverse experiences. Discover how Stella overcame rejection and used her background in tennis to build a successful career in social media. This interview is perfect for anyone looking to avoid the frustrations of job rejections and gain insights on how to succeed in sports media.We cover:(08:34) - Introduction to Stella Barry and her background(14:02) - Stella’s journey to working with Paris 2024(20:14) - Challenges of moving to Paris and working in sports media(27:35) - Insights from working with global sports teams and organisations(34:46) - Dealing with language barriers in international roles(41:12) - Strategic approaches in content creation for major sports events(48:19) - Stella’s experience working as a TikTok host(55:43) - Managing partnerships and collaborations(01:01:29) - Highlights from interacting with athletes at the Olympics(01:08:10) - Future goals and the impact of Olympic experienceIf you like this ep, give these a go next:#170: Cricket Australia, Social Media Producer | Emily Collin#197: Australian Grand Prix Corporation, Social Media Producer | Sophie Ries#286: GWS Giants, Head of Content | Jacob Gaynor-Follow SportsGrad on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok-Follow Reuben Williams on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok-Subscribe to the SportsGrad newsletter for job and networking opportunities-Become a SportsGrad Member to shortcut your next job in sportBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible. Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia.Thanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Meet Angus Yeates, a Management Graduate at Adidas based in Melbourne. Angus’ traineeship has introduced him to multiple parts of Adidas' operations, including category planning, e-commerce, and digital wholesale, where he manages the brand’s presence on Amazon. His role involves optimising product placements, managing retailer partnerships, and driving Adidas’ digital growth in the region. With a career spanning various roles, from umpiring in hockey to working with high-profile sports brands, Angus has built an impressive resume.If you're a young job hunter interested in working with top global brands in the sports industry, Angus' journey offers invaluable lessons.We cover:06:12 - Early career in golf and community connections06:42 - Strategies for overcoming adversity07:12 - Value of curiosity in sports careers08:16 - Graduate journey and future goals08:48 - Importance of LinkedIn for networking09:18 - Realities of working in an international brand10:57 - Challenges and rewards in the golf industry15:05 - Reflections on overcoming burnout18:40 - Transition back to Australia and career recalibration21:16 - Leveraging LinkedIn for international connections25:55 - Networking strategies and job application tips32:40 - Skills valuable in the Adidas graduate program35:59 - Importance of community and local relevance for brands41:25 - Finding career alignment and networking benefits54:00 - Experiences with Adidas and sports career tips*If you like this ep, give these a go next:#181: Western United FC Commercial Partnerships Coordinator, Nathan Perrone#211: AFL Partnerships Coordinator, Brant Hubber#231: Golf Australia Commercial Partnerships Coordinator, Clayton Henderson*-Follow SportsGrad on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok-Follow Reuben Williams on LinkedIn, Instagram or TikTok-Subscribe to the SportsGrad newsletter for job and networking opportunities-Become a SportsGrad Member to shortcut your next job in sportBig thanks to Deakin University for making this episode possible. Check out their Master of Sport Management, ranked #1 in Australia.Thanks for listening, much love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.