Welcome to Episode 8 of the Game is the Game.

I've been fortunate in life to meet an array of inspirational individuals across varied professions. The Game is the Game is an opportunity for them to tell their stories and hopefully inspire others to find their calling.

On today's episode I sit down with former professional footballer and current football manager Neil Smith to unpick a profession that tugs at the heart strings of so many around the country.

If you're a fan of football it's likely that at some point you have maligned the decision making of a football manager and believed you could do a better job. It's almost an innate aspect that comes with the territory.

Yet very few have actually experienced what it means to be a professional football manager and navigate the daily twists and turns that perhaps those off the pitch take for granted.

In this illuminating conversation Neil guides us through his own career as a player and what taught him about the game and how he evolved once taking the steps into coaching and management.

You can follow Neil on Twitter here.

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The Game is the Game is an independent venture founded by Machel St Patrick Hewitt. If you'd like to buy me a coffee as an appreciation for this podcast - you can do so here.