The 121 Podcast

Darren Manning “Managing Grays Athletic: The Highs, The Pressure & My Departure”

Former Grays Athletic F.C. manager Darren Manning joins me to reflect on one of the most important chapters of his football journey. A lifelong supporter of the club, Darren went from standing on the terraces as a fan to managing his boyhood team from the dugout, a journey that made his time at Grays Athletic even more personal. From taking charge with a clear vision, to navigating the pressures and realities of non-league football, Darren opens up about what it’s really like managing a club that means so much to him. He also shares his honest reflections following his recent departure from the role. We talk about the challenges, the proud moments, the difficult decisions, and how he now looks back on his time leading Grays Athletic. A thoughtful and candid conversation about football, leadership, loyalty to a club you love, and what the future holds.

"Cooking with Purpose" A Chat with Carina Mercer

In this episode, I sit down with Carina Mercer, founder of Catering by Carina, for a relaxed and honest conversation about food, business, and building something personal from passion. We talk about how Carina turned her love of cooking into a bespoke catering business, what makes her approach different, and the real work that goes into delivering stress-free, high-quality events. We cover: • How her journey into catering began • What “bespoke catering” really means • The types of events she works best with • The common stresses clients face and how she solves them • What makes a great referral for her business This episode is perfect for anyone planning an event, anyone in business networking, or anyone who loves hearing how passion becomes profession. If you know someone organising a wedding, private celebration, or corporate event and looking for reliable, personal, high-quality catering — this conversation will show you exactly why Carina should be on their radar. Links. https://www.facebook.com/CakefullyHeaven [https://www.facebook.com/CakefullyHeaven] https://www.facebook.com/cateringbycarina [https://www.facebook.com/cateringbycarina] https://www.instagram.com/_cakefullyheaven_ [https://www.instagram.com/_cakefullyheaven_] https://www.instagram.com/cateringbycarina/ [https://www.instagram.com/cateringbycarina/] Buy the book https://www.amazon.co.uk/Carinas-Kitchen-my-table-yours-ebook/dp/B0FT5T28Y3/ref=sr_1_1?crid=YDUVMTK358Q6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5EZh7ORLuLa9X9O05KbrxQ.jLl-VQuDmW0wepxRpM8fyaNZ6IdiEgZb7pg09_VKL50&dib_tag=se&keywords=Carina+mercer&qid=1772015592&sprefix=carina+merce%2Caps%2C229&sr=8-1 [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Carinas-Kitchen-my-table-yours-ebook/dp/B0FT5T28Y3/ref=sr_1_1?crid=YDUVMTK358Q6&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5EZh7ORLuLa9X9O05KbrxQ.jLl-VQuDmW0wepxRpM8fyaNZ6IdiEgZb7pg09_VKL50&dib_tag=se&keywords=Carina+mercer&qid=1772015592&sprefix=carina+merce%2Caps%2C229&sr=8-1]

"When the Truth Really Matters" Paul Bramley

In this episode, I sit down with Paul Bramley, founder of British Polygraph Testing, to explore the fascinating world of lie detection and truth verification. We go beyond the TV drama and dive into what actually happens during a real polygraph test, how it works, what it measures, and the role human psychology plays alongside the technology. We discuss: • What people misunderstand about lie detectors • How accurate is polygraph testing really is • The types of situations where testing is used • The ethical responsibility behind truth verification • The emotional impact of getting clear answers If you’ve ever wondered whether you’d pass a lie detector test or when one might actually make sense, this conversation gives you a grounded, professional insight into the process.

"Unlocking Potential with Sam Walker Coaching" - Sam Walker

In this episode, I sit down with Sam Walker Coaching for a relaxed 1-2-1 podcast conversation about coaching, confidence, and real personal growth. We talk about: Who coaching is actually for (and who it isn’t) The common challenges Sam’s clients come to him with How coaching helps people move from feeling stuck to taking clear action What makes Sam’s approach different from “generic” coaching How to spot the right moment to refer someone to a coach If you know someone who needs clarity, confidence, or support moving forward, this is a great introduction to Sam and his work. Learn more about Sam Walker Coaching: https://www.facebook.com/WalkerSportsCoaching [https://www.facebook.com/WalkerSportsCoaching] 🎙️ Subscribe for more 1-2-1 podcast conversations with business owners, creatives, and professionals, focused on people, purpose, and referrals.

“Between the Posts: Building Elite Goalkeepers with Danny Sambridge”

In this episode, we’re joined by Danny Sambridge, goalkeeping coach and founder of Effective Goalkeeping. Danny breaks down what effective goalkeeping really means in today’s game, from technical development and decision-making to mindset and confidence. We discuss common mistakes, coaching philosophies, and what separates good goalkeepers from great ones. Whether you’re a goalkeeper, coach, or football fan, this episode delivers practical insights from someone working on the grass every day. Listen now and get a deeper understanding of the modern goalkeeper.