Boots to Billing

Joe Savage from Player to Sporting Director at Hearts FC

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.

Tony McParland: A Football Journey and Beyond the Pitch

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 rejection * The hidden value of lower league and junior football for personal growth * Why modern youth training might be missing the mark and how street football shaped Tony’s skill set * The shifting landscape of football development and the importance of experience over tactics * Practical advice for athletes transitioning out of sport and building a second career Why 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.

From Junior Teams to Manager of the Year: John McGlynn’s Football Journey

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📧 customercare@agpayroll.co.uk📸 Instagram: @agpayroll💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ

From £300 to Messi: How a Footballer Built a Fashion Empire | Mark Corcoran

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 platforms AGPayroll – 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 📧 customercare@agpayroll.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @agpayroll 💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll 📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ BEBA 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

Tam McManus – Gazza, Vidić, and Life After the Final Whistle (Part 2)

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 platforms AGPayroll – 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 📧 customercare@agpayroll.co.uk 📸 Instagram: @agpayroll 💼 LinkedIn: AGPayroll 📍 Suite 225G, The Pentagon Centre, 36 Washington Street, Glasgow, G3 8AZ