Canny Conversations Podcast by Safaraz Ali Social Entrepreneur, CEO of Pathway Group and proud Birmingham business leader, where he shares his insights and experiences on entrepreneurialism, having a growth mindset and getting the best out of people as well as useful information to help your grow your business, develop and build your team. Canny Conversations has now completed over 50 episodes making an impact on UK business Podcasts and demonstrating how sustainable business can benefit. In ...
…
continue reading
Matching Talent To Value Podcasts
Welcome to The Football Insights Academy Podcast, the ultimate destination for football enthusiasts, aspiring analysts, scouts, and recruitment professionals who want to understand the beautiful game beyond what’s visible on match day. This podcast is dedicated to demystifying the world of football analytics, scouting, and recruitment while empowering listeners to elevate their understanding of the game. Each episode is packed with: Deep Dives into Playing Styles: Learn how teams operate on ...
…
continue reading
Catapult Leaders is America's leading executive search firm that sources Black Mid-to-Senior level managers, Early Career talent & College Interns, and Military Officers - for Engineering, Supply Chain, Computer & Data Science, Marketing, Finance, and Science roles - with top companies that value a diverse pipeline, equity, and inclusion. In providing access to this untapped source of management talent, Catapult Leaders helps companies increase sales, profit, and share. The CATAPULT LEADERS' ...
…
continue reading
1
Kirstie Donnelly MBE, CEO at City & Guilds now part of PeopleCert discusses the sale and much more!
1:07:55
1:07:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:55Kirsty Donnelly, CEO of City & Guilds, talks to Safaraz Ali about her remarkable journey as she takes the helm under the new ownership of PeopleCert. In this powerful episode of Canny Conversations, Safaraz Ali sits down with Kirstie Donnelly MBE, the Chief Executive Officer of City & Guilds, to explore a career shaped by transformation, vision, an…
…
continue reading
1
Ep33: What Will Data Never Be Able To Tell Us?
30:37
30:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:37Join the Free Kickstart Challenge Summary The conversation explores the interplay between data and instinct in decision-making, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to trust each. It highlights the limitations of data and the necessity of context in understanding outcomes. Takeaways It's not data versus instinct. It's knowing when to trust ea…
…
continue reading
1
Ep32: From Data to Dressing Room: How Insights Actually Influence Coaches
28:49
28:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:49Join the Free Kickstart Challenge In this episode David and Tom talk about one of the three most important skills that can help the analyst translate the data into usable insights that could help them gain the trust of the coach. You could calculate the greatest data finding of the century...... but if you can't speak the language of the coaching s…
…
continue reading
1
Lisa Capper MBE - CEO & Principal of Sandwell Colleges - Part 2
34:04
34:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:04Welcome to the second half of Safaraz's conversation with Lisa Capper MBE, the CEO and Principal of Sandwell Colleges. In this episode, Lisa takes us behind the scenes of the Sector Work-Based Academy Programmes (SWAPS), revealing how these innovative initiatives are equipping adults with the skills needed to thrive in hospital settings and through…
…
continue reading
1
Ep31: Why Some Teams Overachieve: From Brentford to Mjällby - When Process Beats Payroll.
54:21
54:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:21Ep31: 2024/25 EPL Team Personalities Mjällby Article Join the Free Kickstart Challenge Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the concepts of overachievement and underachievement in football, particularly focusing on the Premier League. They discuss the performance index …
…
continue reading
1
Lisa Capper MBE - CEO & Principal of Sandwell Colleges - Part 1
32:44
32:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:44Welcome to Lisa Capper MBE, the inspiring CEO and principal of the Sandwell Colleges Group. Lisa takes us through her journey of leading the largest college network in the West Midlands, shedding light on how these institutions are pivotal in transforming lives in communities marked by high deprivation. She shares the innovative steps Sandwell Coll…
…
continue reading
1
Ep30: Match Analysis Myths: What TV Pundits Get 'Wrong'!
32:50
32:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:50Join the Free Kickstart Challenge Summary In this episode, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the world of match analysis and punditry, exploring common myths and misconceptions that arise in football commentary. They discuss the differences between the roles of pundits and analysts, highlighting how entertainment often takes precedence o…
…
continue reading
1
Mo Chaudry - Part 2: British Pakistani £170M Entrepreneur in conversation with Safaraz Ali
41:03
41:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:03Welcome to this very special Canny Conversations podcast. We continue our break from our usual format to bring you the second half of Safaraz’s conversation with Mo Chaudry, British-Pakistani entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. Mo Talks about his connection to, and love of Stoke-on-Trent. He tells us about taking the risk of buying Water Wo…
…
continue reading
1
Ep29: Scouting in the Age of AI: What Football Clubs Really Value
39:40
39:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:40Join the Free Kickstart Challenge Summary In this episode, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the integration of AI in football, particularly in scouting and recruitment. They explore how clubs are adopting AI technologies, the importance of clarity and communication in data analysis, and the future of AI in the sport. The conversation empha…
…
continue reading
1
Mo Chaudry - Part 1: British Pakistani £170M Entrepreneur in conversation with Safaraz Ali
40:16
40:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:16We are delighted to welcome Mo Chaudry, a British-Pakistani entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. He is best known for having owned and transformed Waterworld in Stoke-on-Trent from 1999 until its sale in 2025. Mo is now focused on his roles at M Investment Group and Pulse Global, as well as his ongoing work in community development, mentorin…
…
continue reading
1
Ep28: Inside the 11-Stage Funnel: From 'What Do We Need' to 'Player To Target'
46:25
46:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:25
…
continue reading
1
Jon Hornagold - Apprenticeship Manager at Amey - Part 2
31:40
31:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:40This week we hear the second half of Safaraz’s conversation with Jon Hornagold, the apprenticeship manager at Amey. They look at the differences between apprenticeships and degrees and how the different paths suit different people. It is all about having an alternative choice in training and education. https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/ https…
…
continue reading
1
Ep27: From Pilot Sessions to Future Evolution - What's Next?
20:29
20:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:29Join the Free Kickstart Challenge Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley reflect on the recently concluded War Room series, discussing its structure, the importance of feedback, and the role of the First 11 platform in football recruitment. They explore how to engage different group…
…
continue reading
1
Jon Hornagold - Apprenticeship Manager at Amey - Part 1
35:05
35:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:05This time Safaraz is in conversation with John Hornagold, the apprenticeship manager at Amey. In the first half of this two-part chat, John tells us about his journey from NATO HQ in the Netherland as part of the British army to his role at the civil engineering company, Amey drawing on his love of training gained in the army. https://cannyconversa…
…
continue reading
1
Ep26: From shortlist to Target Matrix — Turning Data Into Decisions
26:48
26:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:48Join the Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the intricacies of the football recruitment process, focusing on the blend of human evaluation and technology. They explore the importance of video scouting, live scouting, and off-field factors in player recrui…
…
continue reading
1
Ep25: How Do You Filter 700,000 Players Down To a Shortlist?
35:49
35:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:49Free Kickstart Challenge Course In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the intricacies of the 11-stage recruitment process in football. Join them as they explore how strong beginnings lead to successful outcomes, the importance of defining club identity and playing style, and the…
…
continue reading
1
Ep24: Building Your Player Recruitment House!! The War Room Has Begun!
36:46
36:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:46Join the Waiting List - Free Kickstart Challenge Introduction Tom and David kick off Episode 24 with a warm welcome and a bit of humor about their recording setup. Football Season Insights: A deep dive into the unpredictable nature of the current football season, discussing teams like Man City, Spurs, and West Ham. Recruitment Process: The duo expl…
…
continue reading
1
Ep23: The Steps of a Real Recruitment Process - Steps 9-11 and Ready For The War Room!
38:29
38:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:29Join The War Room Join the Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the current football season's unpredictable start, delve into the recruitment process for football clubs, and introduce the upcoming War Room sessions. They explore the importance of stru…
…
continue reading
1
Ep22: The Steps of a Real Recruitment Process - Steps 4-8
34:04
34:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:04Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the stages of the First 11 app workflow, focusing on player recruitment and data analysis. They discuss the importance of defining objectives, identifying playing styles, and specifying player …
…
continue reading
1
Nadia Davies, Director of Business Development at Solihull College and University Centre - Part 2
28:47
28:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:47Dedicated feline behaviour expert and volunteer, Nadia, invites us to explore the complex and often misunderstood world of cats. Forget the notion that cats are merely "not dogs"—Nadia provides a wealth of insights into their unique motivations and survival instincts that remain even in a domestic setting. Our conversation takes a thoughtful turn a…
…
continue reading
1
Ep21: Behind the Curtain: The First Steps of a Real Recruitment Process - Steps 1-3
40:57
40:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:57Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the intricacies of football recruitment and discussing the importance of defining clear recruitment objectives. They explore the recruitment process using the first 3 steps of the 'First Eleven' process, emphasising t…
…
continue reading
1
Nadia Davies, Director of Business Development at Solihull College and University Centre - Part 1
32:17
32:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:17This week we hear the first half of Safaras conversation with Nadia Davies, a dedicated and inspiring leader, sharing her incredible journey at Solihull College and University Centre, where she has passionately advanced from a vocational assessor to the Director of Business Development over the past 18 years. Nadia offers a unique perspective on ho…
…
continue reading
1
Ep20: Inside the Machine – How Smart Clubs Build Player Shortlists in 2025
42:18
42:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:18Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the evolution of football tactics and the importance of structured recruitment processes. They delve into the 11 stages of recruitment, emphasising the need for clear objectives, key performance indicators, and the role …
…
continue reading
1
Ep19: Moving Away From Complex Chaos Towards Simple Clarity
29:40
29:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:40Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the evolving landscape of football recruitment. They explore the typical recruitment setup in clubs, the importance of aligning recruitment with playing style, and the challenges of organising data effectively. Dav…
…
continue reading
1
Caren Alderwick - Head of Apprenticeships at Cross Country Trains - Part 2
30:57
30:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:57This week we hear the second half of Safaraz’s conversations with Caren Alderwick, Head of apprenticeships at Cross Country Trains. Caren talks about how the power of education and confidence building can transform the journey back into the workforce as well as recognising and harnessing transferable skills from everyday life. https://cannyconversa…
…
continue reading
1
Caren Alderwick - Head of Apprenticeships at Cross Country Trains - Part 1
29:26
29:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:26Join us for a conversation with Caren Alderwick, Head of Apprenticeships and Operational Training at Cross Country Trains, who shares her remarkable journey with the company and her passion for education. https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/ https://safaraz.co.uk/ https://cannybites.co.uk/buy-the-book/ https://www.1386audio.com/have-a-listen…
…
continue reading
1
Jay Phillips - Head of Business Engagement for ATHE
29:18
29:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:18Join us for Safaraz Ali's conversation with Jay Phillips, Head of Business Engagement at ATHE. They explore the dynamic partnership between ATHE and Pathway Group. Jay shares his journey from key account manager to his current role, emphasizing the importance of building strong B2B relationships with training providers and educational centres. We a…
…
continue reading
With roots as a cordon bleu chef and experience in managing a bustling restaurant, Alex ventured into corporate life, where his passion for business transformation flourished. Bridging the gap between vocational training and traditional academia, Alex discusses the evolving landscape and how ATHE has strategically positioned itself as a leader in t…
…
continue reading
In this weeks episode we continue to discover the inspiring transformation of Sophie Azam, who transitioned from a civil servant to a vibrant grassroots leader. Her hands-on leadership style and embrace of digital platforms like TikTok and Shopify are helping to reshape the UK economy. Sophie shares her incredible journey, marked by resilience in t…
…
continue reading
1
Ep18: The Shadow Team Model: Training to Build Multi-Window Strategy
34:14
34:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:14Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the intricacies of football recruitment strategies. They explore the importance of persistence in achieving success, the concept of a shadow team for future planning, and the tools necessary…
…
continue reading
Trailblazing entrepreneur Sophie Azam joins us to share her inspiring journey from the daughter of Pakistani immigrants to a pioneering force in Birmingham's business landscape. With a deep-rooted passion for education and a mission to integrate entrepreneurship into the British education system, Sophie recounts the creation of Ignite Qualification…
…
continue reading
1
Ep17: The Thinking Behind the Shortlist — How to Justify Player Picks Like a Pro!
36:11
36:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:11Join the Free Kickstart Challenge Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss various aspects of football recruitment, including the challenges faced by players in international matches, the constraints that scouts encounter, and the importance of evaluating players from m…
…
continue reading
Derrin Kent and Safaraz Ali look at how to shift you perspective on AI tools in coaching as they explore the balance between automation and the human touch. While AI-generated content might lack personal warmth, the presence of mentors and coaches in the workplace remains invaluable. They talk about how AI tools like ChatGPT and Co-Pilot can revolu…
…
continue reading
1
Ep16: Scouting with Constraints — How Real-World Limits Shape Smart Decisions
43:09
43:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:09Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course Luis Enrique and Kylian Mbappe Summary In this episode, hosts David Bromley and Tom Butterfield discuss the dynamics of their podcast, personal updates, and the impact of technology on traditional roles. They delve into the constraints faced in football recruitment, particularly financial limitations an…
…
continue reading
In the first part of this two-part conversation, we explore the transformative power of AI in education and the workplace, with Derrin Kent from TDM Limited returning to share his insights on the evolving landscape of apprenticeships and AI's revolutionary role. From enhancing learning with GPT tools like ChatGPT and Copilot, to envisioning future …
…
continue reading
1
Ep15: What a Recruitment Department Actually Does — and How You Can Train Like You're Already Inside One
44:18
44:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:18Join the Free Beginners Course Summary In this conversation, David Bromley and Tom Butterfield explore the intricacies of football analysis and recruitment. They discuss the importance of contextualizing metrics, the process of translating coach requirements into actionable data, and the significance of key performance indicators in player evaluati…
…
continue reading
Joanna Hughes, a champion for accessible legal education, shares her journey from a distinguished 25-year career in law to pioneering solicitor apprenticeships that eliminate the burden of student loans. As co-CEO of City Century, Joanna collaborates with over 50 international law firms to transform legal training and has seen a remarkable 240% inc…
…
continue reading
1
Ep14: Future-Proofing Yourself — Why Augmented Analysts Will Lead the Next Generation of Football Clubs
37:25
37:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:25Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the integration of AI in football recruitment. They discuss the importance of understanding AI's capabilities, particularly neural networks and natural language processing, and how these …
…
continue reading
1
Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive Officer at the 5% Club - Part 3
25:14
25:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:14Welcome to another episode of The Canny Conversations podcast, the podcast that sees Safaraz Ali, Co-founder and CEO of The Pathway Group in conversation with some of the major supporters of the Multicultural Apprenticeship and Skills Alliance. In this episode we hear the third and final part of Saf’s conversation with Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Execu…
…
continue reading
1
Ep13: How to Work With AI Like a Football Recruitment Analyst, Not Like a Casual User
35:28
35:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:28Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course Episode Summary: In this episode, Tom and David dive deep into how AI, particularly large language models like ChatGPT, can be integrated professionally into the football recruitment process. It's not about asking vague questions and hoping for magic — it’s about treating your AI assistant like a valued…
…
continue reading
1
Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive Officer at the 5% Club - Part 2
27:37
27:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:37This Commodore of the Royal Navy and OBE recipient shares an unexpected tale of recognition that begins with a surprising moment: mistaking the letter for a speeding ticket. Discover how this distinguished honour was bestowed for a pivotal transformation in Royal Navy recruiting, an achievement that underscores the complexities of aligning young pe…
…
continue reading
1
Ep12: The Recruitment Process That Helps You Think Like a Real Football Club
48:04
48:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:04Join the Free Football Analyst Kickstarter Challenge Recruitment Process with AI Integration PDF Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the evolving landscape of football recruitment, emphasizing the importance of a structured process that incorporates AI and data analysis. …
…
continue reading
1
Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive Officer at the 5% Club - Part 1
28:07
28:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:07Mark Cameron OBE, CEO of the 5% Club, opens up about his journey from corporate ambitions to altruistic endeavours, sharing invaluable insights into enhancing workplace learning through strategic alliances. With the 5% Club now boasting over 1200 members, Mark unravels the vision behind inspiring employers to dedicate a meaningful portion of their …
…
continue reading
1
Ep11: Why the Future of Football Recruitment Belongs to the Process-Driven and AI-Savvy Analyst
34:32
34:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:32Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the evolving landscape of football recruitment, emphasising the significant impact of AI on analysis and decision-making. They outline essential skills for future analysts, including building a re…
…
continue reading
1
Ep10: What Makes A Good Recruitment Decision?
37:20
37:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:20Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course Episode 10 Tables and Charts Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the intricacies of football recruitment. They explore what constitutes a good recruitment decision, the importance of having a clear process, and the challenges of eva…
…
continue reading
1
Ep9: We're Building A Football Club - Want In?
36:31
36:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:31Join the Waiting List - 4-Day Football Analyst Kickstart Challenge Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley delve into the critical role of data analysis in football, discussing its implications for recruitment and scouting. They explore the recruitment process within football clubs, …
…
continue reading
Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course As we get towards the business end of the season we get cup finals, promotion races, play off scrambles, and relegation battles. Pundits, Coaches and Fans will start talking about the need to 'Get Some Momentum' moving into this critical stage of the season.... We can probably think of a team who storme…
…
continue reading
1
Ep7: How Important Is Scoring The First Goal? Is It Different For Every Team?
42:09
42:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:09Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course How many times do you watch a game of football where the commentators or pundits say 'The first goal will be vital today.' Yeah of course you always want to score first, because you want to score!! But does it really make a difference who scores the first goal in an EFL Championship game? We threw that …
…
continue reading
1
Ep6: Why It's So Important To Try And Create A Process.....Not Perfection!
27:41
27:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:41Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the importance of transforming raw data into actionable insights in football analytics. They emphasise the need for storytelling through data, the significance of context in interpreting num…
…
continue reading
1
Ep5: Important Storytelling Stats - Turning Numbers into Narratives
28:40
28:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:40Join the Waiting List - Free Beginners Course Summary In this episode of the Football Insights Academy podcast, hosts Tom Butterfield and David Bromley discuss the importance of transforming raw data into actionable insights in football analytics. They emphasize the need for storytelling through data, the significance of context in interpreting num…
…
continue reading