Captains with Sam Warburton

Alastair Campbell, a prominent writer and political strategist known for his role as Tony Blair's press secretary, returns for an engaging discussion about crisis management. He shares insights into embracing pressure and the importance of support networks when facing mental health challenges. Alastair emphasizes the power of clear communication and relates his experiences in leadership, drawing parallels between politics and sports. He reflects on how leadership styles have evolved from ruthlessness to empathy, showcasing the need for resilience and emotional intelligence in challenging times.

Alastair Campbell, a renowned writer and political strategist known for his time as Tony Blair's communications director, joins for a captivating chat. He shares insights on the surprising parallels between politics and sports, focusing on leadership under pressure. Alastair reflects on his mixed experience during the British & Irish Lions Tour, emphasizing mental resilience and the fear of failure as a driving force. He also discusses the importance of team dynamics and personal growth through friendship and mentorship in facing challenges.

Dai Greene, the former World, European, and Commonwealth Champion in 400m hurdles and Team GB captain during the London 2012 Olympics, shares his inspiring journey. He discusses his transition from football to athletics and the pivotal role of leadership in his athletic career. Dai emphasizes the importance of training with integrity and consistent effort while reflecting on the dynamics of motivating a diverse team. His insights into maintaining a positive mindset and the challenges of personal identity in competitive sports also resonate throughout the conversation.

This week on Captains, Sam is joined by former Wales football captain Ashley Williams. Ashley was the skipper as Wales defied the odds to reach the semi-final of Euro 2016. Under the management of Chris Coleman, Ashley captained the likes of Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey and here he lifts the lid on the bonds that made that team so special. Sam & Ashley compare notes about playing England, how to balance the emotion of big national occasions with carrying out a game plan and the importance of empowering other voices in the group to speak. To get in touch with the show, email captains@crowdnetwork.co.uk and for extra content search for ‘Captains with Sam Warburton’ on LinkedIn. If you are listening on Apple and would like to listen to this episode ad-free, as well as getting access to Crowd's other sports shows, click here: https://apple.co/3zQpfwE. You can also listen ad-free on Amazon music. Music courtesy of BMG Production Music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the new NFL season underway, Sam is joined by two-time Super Bowl winner Osi Umenyiora. Osi is an award-winning pundit and an NFL icon and here he breaks down the mindset required to lead and succeed in America’s Game. One common theme is the importance of good communication and in this episode Osi compares the different styles of legendary quarterbacks Tom Brady and Eli Manning, as well as the pitfalls of the glitz and glamour of the NFL lifestyle. Osi is a trailblazer and a leading figure in growing the game around the world in his role as ambassador for NFL Africa, which has expanded beyond Ghana into Keyna. At present, over 100 players of African descent - whether both on the continent or elsewhere with African parentage - are involved in the NFL. For more information, search @NFLAfrica on social media. To get in touch with the show, email captains@crowdnetwork.co.uk and for extra content search for ‘Captains with Sam Warburton’ on LinkedIn. If you are listening on Apple and would like to listen to this episode ad-free, as well as getting access to Crowd's other sports shows, click here: https://apple.co/3zQpfwE. You can also listen ad-free on Amazon music. Music courtesy of BMG Production Music.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Barclay, former Scotland rugby captain, shares his journey from youth rugby to leading his team at three World Cups. He delves into the culture shock of moving from Glasgow to the Scarlets and discusses the grind of leadership and resilience in sports. Barclay reflects on the emotional complexities of the captaincy, the importance of maintaining relationships with teammates, and the pressures of public perception. He also provides insights into Scotland's preparations for the 2023 World Cup and the key qualities that make an effective leader on and off the field.

Shaun Edwards, a Rugby League legend and the defense coach for France, shares insights into his coaching philosophy and his time working with Warren Gatland. He emphasizes the importance of simplicity in coaching and reflects on his transition from player to mentor. Edwards discusses the balance of camaraderie and performance in the French rugby culture, and the significance of adaptability in leadership during team challenges. With rich anecdotes, he highlights the legacy of coaching and the enduring bonds formed on and off the field.

Shaun Edwards, a Rugby League legend and current defense coach for France, shares insights from his remarkable journey. He reflects on his upbringing in Wigan, where the fear of a mundane job fueled his ambition in sports. Edwards discusses adapting his coaching style for the Rugby World Cup and highlights Antoine Dupont's exceptional leadership qualities. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and structured defense, revealing how constructive feedback shapes player development and team success.

Paul O'Connell, the legendary Irish rugby icon known for his steadfast leadership, joins former England captain Chris Robshaw, who shares the emotional rollercoaster of the 2015 World Cup. Johnny Wilkinson, a world rugby talisman, reflects on the importance of resilience and camaraderie in high-stakes situations. The trio discusses the critical traits of effective leadership, from integrity to positivity, and offers personal anecdotes about overcoming challenges and learning from failures in the journey of wearing the captain's armband.

Delve into the essence of effective leadership as personal anecdotes illuminate crucial traits like positivity and relationship-building. Discover how authenticity shapes communication and prepares you to tackle criticism head-on. The emotional impact of social media on athletes adds depth to discussions on handling feedback constructively. Learn the art of delegation to empower teams and counter feelings of imposter syndrome. Insights from early leadership challenges stress the importance of professionalism and fostering a supportive team environment.