Why are we still telling female rugby coaches they are ‘not ready’ to coach at the highest levels of the women’s game, when we then say to male players ‘you can go straight into professional coaching when you come off the field’?

 This is just one of the thought-provoking questions Giselle Mather tackles on today’s episode of The Game Changers podcast.

Giselle is one of the most influential and pioneering figures in rugby. A former
England international and World Cup winner, Giselle's extraordinary coaching
career has seen her consistently break new ground in the sport. 

 Giselle was the first woman to earn the RFU’s Level 4 coaching qualification and has gone on to lead at the very highest levels of both the men’s and women’s professional game. 

In this candid conversation, Giselle relives the raw early years of the women’s
game, from the first Women’s World Cup in 1991 to lifting the trophy in 1994,
and explains how those experiences forged a coaching philosophy that puts the human before the athlete.

Combining elite coaching with a busy family life as a mother of three, Giselle has coached at Wasps, London Irish, Teddington, Ealing Trailfinders and internationally as a coach for England Women and Head Coach for Team GB Women’s Rugby 7s, along with the inaugural Women’s Barbarians.

Giselle shares how she’s earned respect in men’s environments, the principles that underpin her sessions and the leadership needed to build diverse staff teams where every player can connect and thrive. 

We talk about how visibility is the fastest route to equality for women’s rugby,
why elite athletes deserve the very best qualified coaches and how blunt gender quotas in coaching can backfire.

Renowned for her vision, passion and commitment to developing people, Giselle has inspired players and coaches across generations. She’s an extraordinary leader on and off the pitch. 

 Next week's guest is Somali professional boxer, model and campaign activist - Ramla Ali

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

Emma Wilson: Flying on Foils, Keeping the Joy

“Two bronzes, two completely different emotions. Tokyo was joy. Paris… it broke me inside. It’s taken a long time to process and move forward.”

Emma Wilson is transforming the face of British windsurfing. A world champion at every age group, Olympic bronze medallist in Tokyo, and now the youngest Briton ever to claim a senior world title, Emma talks openly about the highs and lows of life on the water.

She reflects on growing up in a family of elite athletes, the sibling rivalry that drove her forward and the tough leap from youth prodigy to senior racing. Emma relives the joy of her first Olympic medal, the heartbreak of Paris 2024 and the resilience it took to come back stronger as world number one.

From mastering the switch to foiling and the crashes that followed to rediscovering the fun that first inspired her, Emma’s story is one of courage, reinvention and embracing joy.

A fearless competitor with an infectious love for her sport, Emma Wilson is proof that when you protect that joy, the medals will follow.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

How does it feel when images of one of the world’s most famous athletes go viral… and she’s wearing your brand?

That’s the first thing we asked Mari Thomas-Welland on today’s episode of The Game Changers, after Serena Williams shared gym photos wearing the Maaree sports bra.

Mari is a sports engineer turned founder who has reimagined women’s performance wear using science rather than guesswork. It’s a brilliant conversation about innovation, body confidence and the importance of evidence-based design for women's bodies.

From early lab work at Loughborough University to a DIY prototype that led to her patented Overband® technology, Mari shares how understanding real breast movement was the key to creating a sports bra that truly supports comfort and control.

We explore the myths of bra sizing, the realities of being a female entrepreneur and how access to sports bras could transform teenage girls participation in sport and physical activity.

There are now over 250 episodes of The Game Changers, all free to listen on every podcast platform or via fearlesswomen.co.uk.

Next week’s guest: Emma Wilson, windsurfing sensation and current world number one.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

“It’s so easy to chase perfection, but it doesn’t exist. The whole world is built on imperfection - and that’s what makes it beautiful.”

It was our privilege to talk to World Cup winner and Bristol Bears tighthead Sarah Bern for today's episode of The Game Changers podcast as she relives that history-making day at Twickenham and what's to follow. 

Sarah candidly traces her journey from a teenager wrestling with body image to a visible role model for strong, muscular women. Authentic on and off the pitch, Sarah shares how Ilona Maher’s arrival at Bristol Bears helped her find her own voice on social media - a powerful tool to drive change and open vital commercial doors for female athletes.

Sarah takes us behind the scenes - sharing what it's feels like in an England scrum or waiting in the tunnel walk to walk out in front of 82,000 fans. 

We also talk about the crossover of fashion and women's sport with the launch of her own clothing label - Below the Shoulder - with her teammates, a Vogue photoshoot and how Red Roses merchandise has been selling out in stores.

Looking ahead, Sarah calls for true equality across sport as we judge female athletes by what happens on the pitch, not by their appearance.

Her legacy goal is simple and powerful - to help women feel comfortable in their own skin so they can attack life with purpose and joy.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

In series 21 we’re shining a light on the trailblazing women who are transforming sport and society.

You’ll hear from Baroness Sue Campbell, one of the most respected and influential figures in British sport, as she candidly shares her leadership journey and lessons learnt from time working in Olympic and Paralympic Sport, Women’s football and now as Chair of England Netball.

We meet Melanie Barratt, the Paralympic swimmer who made history last year as the first blind woman to swim the English Channel, as she tells her remarkable story of courage and determination.

Champion boxer, fashion model and UNICEF UK ambassador Ramla Ali opens up about her extraordinary journey from refugee to Olympian and global role model.

Entrepreneur Mari Thomas-Welland shares how she founded Maaree sports bras, creating innovative kit that empowers women to move with confidence and we hear about what happened when global icon Serena Williams shared photos of her in the Maree sports bra.

Rugby pioneer, and World Cup winner, Giselle Mather reveals the lessons she’s learned from a career that’s broken new ground as both player and professional coach in the men’s and women’s game.

Olympic windsurfing sensation Emma Wilson talks about her meteoric rise to the top of world sailing, the heartbreak of Paris 2024 and the resilience it takes to compete at the highest level whilst retaining your sense of self.

Award winning, human rights lawyer Kat Craig discusses her mission to protect athletes and hold sport to account on the issues that matter most.

And World Cup winning rugby player Sarah Bern reflects on her experiences in elite rugby and her ambition to redefine what strength really means for women and girls.

Join us as we uncover the stories behind the headlines and explore what it means to drive real change in sport.

The Game Changers is free to listen to on all podcast platforms or from our website at fearlesswomen.co.uk. That’s also where you’ll find details of the Women’s Sport Collective, our free, inclusive community for 14,000 women working in sport.

Thank you to Sport England, who support The Game Changers podcast and the Women’s Sport Collective through a National Lottery Award.

Inspiring conversations with fearless women in sport.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

Lucy Adams has spent her life on a skateboard – but it’s her impact off the ramps that’s transforming the sport forever. From being one of only a handful of women in UK skateboarding in the ’90s to leading the charge for equity and inclusion today, Lucy has carved out a path where others once shut the door.

In this raw and inspiring conversation, Lucy shares what it’s really like to break into a male-dominated sport, fight for recognition and push for a future where every girl feels welcome on a skateboard.

In this episode, Lucy reveals:

• The grit it took to thrive in a sport where women were often invisible
• Why representation matters – and what it means to truly belong in skateboarding
• The battles to make skateboarding safer, more accessible, and more inclusive
• How she’s helping rewrite the rules for the next generation of skaters
• The emotional highs and lows of being a pioneer in a sport that wasn’t built for you

From small-town skate parks to global stages, Lucy Adams has paved the way for thousands of women and girls to ride free. This is the story of resilience, rebellion and reshaping a sport for good.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

Diane Edwards (Modahl) was one of Britain’s brightest middle-distance stars, a Commonwealth gold medallist and four-time Olympian whose remarkable career was thrown into turmoil when she was wrongly accused of doping in 1994. What followed was a devastating two-year battle to clear her name – a fight that cost her financially, emotionally, and professionally – but could not break her spirit.

In this compelling and emotional conversation, Diane shares:

• Growing up in Manchester as the daughter of Jamaican parents and discovering her talent for athletics
• The golden years of her career, winning Commonwealth gold and setting a British record over 800m
• The traumatic moment her life changed forever when she was falsely accused of doping
• The brutal cost – financially, emotionally, and reputationally – of proving her innocence
• Why she still hasn’t received an apology from UK Athletics to this day
• Her remarkable resilience in returning to international competition and representing Great Britain again
• The powerful work she now leads to create opportunities for young people in sport

This is a story of extraordinary talent, unthinkable injustice, and relentless determination to fight for truth and fairness in sport.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

Our guest on The Game Changers today is Sally Horrox, Chief of Women’s Rugby at World Rugby. 

Sally has an incredible track record in transforming women’s sports. A former non-executive director of England Netball, advisor the FA, UEFA and other international football federations, Sally played a leading role in the creation of the Netball Super League AND the FA Women’s Super League.

An expert in the professional and commercial development of women’s sport, Sally has worked internationally on major projects in women's football, tennis and netball, understanding first-hand how to create and develop professional leagues, major events and commercial partnerships.

At World Rugby Sally leads the Women in Rugby team, collaborating with colleagues across the sport to accelerate women in rugby on, and off the field.

In this fascinating hour we explore what it takes to truly accelerate progress for women’s rugby – and women’s sport – worldwide, from creating professional pathways to building commercial success and driving global participation.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

"Women in sport shouldn’t have to choose between motherhood and their career. We need real investment, policies and understanding to make both possible."

England netball legend Eboni Usoro-Brown (formerly Beckford-Chambers) wore the red dress 117 times across an extraordinary 15-year career, including that unforgettable Commonwealth Games gold in 2018.

A trailblazer on and off the court, Eboni has combined elite sport with a career in law, championed dual careers, and inspired so many through her return to professional netball after becoming a mother.

In this episode of The Game Changers podcast, Eboni shares her remarkable journey as we go behind the scenes of England’s dramatic 2018 Commonwealth Games Gold and explore the resilience and mental toughness needed to stay at the top for over a decade.

Eboni talks why every athlete needs a “Plan B”, the reality of returning to professional sport after pregnancy and her thoughts on the future of the Netball Super League.

Having been a massive fan of Eboni's for many years, Sue loved this powerful and inspiring conversation about chasing your dreams, overcoming challenges and leaving a legacy that opens doors for others.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

"Missing Olympic selection again broke me, but it reminded me I'm more than a rugby player."

Today on The Game Changers podcast it's our absolute joy to talk to Scottish rugby star Rhona Lloyd, who shares her remarkable journey from a young girl defying stereotypes to becoming one of Scotland’s fastest and most dynamic players. 

With 57 caps and 25 tries for her country, Rhona’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery and redefining what it means to be strong. Having returned from four years playing in France, Rhona is about to represent Scotland in the Women's Rugby World Cup, before she joins Sale Sharks Rugby Club to play in Premiership Women's Rugby.

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, we explore:

-- The heartbreak of missing out on Olympic selection – twice

-- How Rhona has built strength and identity beyond the pitch

-- The real highs and lows of life as a professional female athlete

-- The remarkable bond within the Scottish women’s team

-- Helping girls build body confidence through sport

Rhona speaks with raw honesty about career setbacks and personal trauma faced by the national team, and how those moments have shaped her as both a player and a person.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

When a photograph of Sophie Power breastfeeding her three-month-old baby mid-race went viral, it sparked a global conversation about motherhood, sport, and equality. But for Sophie, the moment was never about heroics - it was about the barriers women face just to reach a start line.

In this powerful episode of The Game Changers, Sophie – a world record-breaking ultra-runner and founder of SheRACES – shares how she’s challenging a sport designed for men, campaigning for pregnancy deferrals, fair cut-offs and real equity for women in endurance events worldwide.

In this episode, Sophie reveals:

• The anger and injustice behind that iconic UTMB image
• Why so few women make it to ultra start lines – and how to change that
• The life-changing power of endurance challenges for women everywhere
• How SheRACES is driving global reform in running and triathlon events
• What resilience really looks like when you’re juggling motherhood, sport and ambition

From running 347 miles across Ireland to smashing a 48-hour treadmill world record, Sophie Power is redefining what’s possible and refusing to leave other women behind.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

From jumpers for goalposts on a council estate to managing at the highest level of women’s football, Carla Ward’s journey is one of courage, resilience and breaking through barriers. Now leading the Republic of Ireland women’s national team with ambitions to reach the 2027 World Cup, Carla has navigated a fast rise from player to coach, defied expectations, and spoken openly about the reality of balancing a demanding football career with motherhood.

In this powerful episode of The Game Changers, Carla shares the unfiltered truth about life in football, leadership, and the challenges female coaches face in the modern game.

We talk about:

• Growing up in grassroots football when girls’ teams didn’t exist
• The emotional and brutal transition from player to manager overnight
• Building winning teams through culture, unity and belief
• Surviving the toughest jobs and proving doubters wrong
• The sacrifices of coaching and the impact on family life
• Why women coaches deserve more opportunities – and fair pay
• Leading a national side and dreaming of World Cup success

An honest and eye-opening conversation about risk-taking, resilience and the fight for equality in women’s football.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

Sammi Kinghorn’s journey from a life-changing farming accident to the top of the Paralympic podium is nothing short of extraordinary. A double world champion, Commonwealth medallist, Paralympic gold winner and now a popular BBC presenter, Sammi’s story is one of unbreakable resilience.

In this powerful conversation, Sammi opens up about:

• Rebuilding her life as a teenager after a devastating spinal injury
• The mental battles behind the medals – and how anxiety has shaped her racing career
• The fight for equality and representation in para sport
• Finding purpose beyond the track and redefining what success really looks like
• An inspiring and honest conversation 

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

Welcome to The Game Changers – the podcast that celebrates extraordinary women in sport. In Series 20, we’re shining a light on the courageous, pioneering and fiercely passionate women who are re-defining the future of sport.

You’ll hear from Diane Edwards, the Commonwealth 800m champion who overcame a devastating injustice and fought a landmark legal battle to clear her name before becoming a powerful advocate for inclusion and opportunity in sport.

Pioneering skateboarder, Lucy Adams, shares how she carved her path in a male-dominated sport – breaking boundaries, staying true to herself and inspiring young people, from all backgrounds, to step onto a board.

Respected both as a former player and now as a top-flight coach, Carla Ward reveals what it really takes to lead in the high-pressure world of women’s football, while ultrarunner and campaigner Sophie Power opens up about motherhood and rewriting the rules for women in endurance sport.

We talk to Scottish rugby star Rhona Lloyd about body image and using her platform to challenge attitudes in society, and England netball icon Eboni Usoro-Brown about the challenges of motherhood in elite sport and her evolving mission to drive change on and off the court.

We hear from Sally Horrox, now shaping the global women’s game at World Rugby, as she shares insights from a groundbreaking career that’s spanned the commercial rise of netball and women’s football – including the creation of two Super Leagues.

And Sammi Kinghorn, Paralympic gold medallist and world-record holder on her extraordinary story of grit, growth and overcoming the unimaginable.
 
Join us as we uncover the stories behind the headlines and explore what it means to drive real change in sport.

New episodes in this series will be released throughout August on Mondays and Wednesdays each week, so please follow or subscribe now and you’ll be the first to hear from these extraordinary trailblazers.

The Game Changers is free to listen to on all podcast platforms or from our website @fearless.women.co.uk. The website is also where you’ll find details of the Women’s Sport Collective, our free, inclusive community for all women working in sport.

Thank you to Sport England, who support The Game Changers podcast (and the Women’s Sport Collective) through with a National Lottery Award.

The Game Changers – Series 20. 
Inspiring conversations with fearless women in sport.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

"Great athletes aren’t just terrified of losing – they’re traumatised by it. That’s what drives them."

In this powerful and inspiring episode, Sue Anstiss is joined by one of the most influential figures in British sport, Mel Marshall. 

A former Olympian turned world-renowned coach, Mel is best known for guiding Adam Peaty to Olympic gold and multiple world records – but her story is so much more than medals and podiums.

From her early days as a fiercely competitive swimmer to her current role leading an elite performance hub in Australia, Mel shares the highs, the heartbreaks and the lessons learned along the way. She speaks openly about the pressure of elite sport, the emotional cost of coaching and the values that have shaped her remarkable career.

Mel reflects on the extraordinary partnership with Adam Peaty, the importance of empathy in high performance and why we must do more to support and spotlight female coaches. 

She also reveals what’s next in her journey – and why she believes her best days are still to come.

This is a powerful conversation about resilience, reinvention and the people who quietly shape greatness from the sidelines.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

"I hate mediocrity. As soon as it feels like we’re sitting in the status quo, I feel like I’m failing."

In this brilliant episode of The Game Changers, Sue Anstiss is joined by Jess Thirlby, Head Coach of the Vitality Roses and one of the most respected leaders in world netball.

From growing up in a deeply sporting family in the South West to representing England at the Commonwealth Games and ultimately leading the national side, Jess shares an extraordinary journey through sport.

Jess’s warmth and candour are apparent as she reflects on:

• Finding her love for netball in a primary school playground
• Playing alongside legends during the pioneering years at Team Bath
• Making history as England’s first full-time netballer and how it reshaped her view of the sport
• Stepping into the Roses Head Coach role after their historic 2018 Commonwealth Gold — and the pressure and privilege of leading a team with the nation’s hopes on their shoulders
• Her bold, collaborative coaching style and relentless pursuit of excellence
• Her ambition to lead the team to World Cup Gold in 2027
• Balancing high-performance leadership with family life and the realities of motherhood in elite sport

Jess speaks powerfully about the evolution of netball, her hopes for Super League 2.0, and why the sport must remain unapologetically female-first while building a more inclusive and sustainable future.

A compelling conversation that highlights what it takes to lead with integrity in the spotlight, inspire the next generation and stay grounded — even when chasing that elusive World Cup Gold.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

Lucy Wray: Building Culture, Driving Change and Backing Women’s Sport

"Sport is this incredible rollercoaster of winning, losing, learning and bonding — I don’t think anything else creates that kind of magic."

This week on The Game Changers, Sue Anstiss is joined by Lucy Wray – an inspiring and influential leader in sport whose journey spans elite performance, business innovation and transformative change.

A former Wales lacrosse captain with over 70 international caps, Lucy’s early experiences as an athlete have shaped her deep understanding of team culture and what it takes to succeed at the highest level. 

As Group CEO of Saracens from 2020 to 2024, Lucy led the club through one of its most turbulent periods – navigating relegation, the salary cap scandal and a global pandemic, all while pregnant. Her reflections on resilience, leadership and staying true to your values in the face of crisis are both powerful and profoundly honest.

Now as an investor, co-owner of London Mavericks Netball and board member of the Netball Super League, Lucy shares her bold vision for the growth of professional women’s sport. With a rare mix of commercial acumen and heartfelt purpose, Lucy speaks about building sustainable business models, creating inclusive, player-first cultures and investing in women’s sport not just as a commercial opportunity – but as a force for social change.

Whether she’s talking about building businesses, empowering athletes or creating unforgettable matchday experiences, Lucy’s story is one of courage, creativity and an unshakeable belief in the power of sport to do good.

This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of sport, the rise of women’s sport and what it truly means to lead with purpose.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

“When the world forgets Afghanistan, we keep speaking. We are the voices of the women who can no longer be heard.”

What would you risk for the right to play sport? For Khalida Popal, the answer is everything.

This powerful episode of The Game Changers tells the extraordinary story of a woman who defied the Taliban, challenged a corrupt sporting system and used football to fight for the lives and freedoms of women and girls across the world.

Khalida Popal was just a child when her family fled Taliban rule in Afghanistan. In the harsh reality of a refugee camp, she discovered football – a game that gave her joy, freedom, and purpose. Returning to Afghanistan as a teenager, she dared to play in public, formed the country’s first women’s national team and proudly captained her side in the face of threats, abuse and constant danger.

But her leadership didn’t stop on the pitch. Khalida spoke out about the abuse of female players by senior figures in Afghan football and uncovered horrific corruption at the highest levels. It was these actions that meant she was eventually forced to flee for her life.

Now living in Denmark, Khalida continues her relentless activism through the Girl Power Organisation, while leading a global campaign to get FIFA to recognise Afghan women footballers in exile – players stripped of their national identity simply because they are women.

In this gripping and deeply moving conversation, Khalida shares how she helped evacuate over 600 women and girls from Afghanistan when the Taliban returned to power in 2021, what it means to lose your identity as a refugee, and why she refuses to stay silent – even when her own life is at risk.

Raw, emotional and deeply inspiring, this is not just a story about sport. It’s about power, oppression, survival and hope. Khalida Popal is a true game changer.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

"I’ve become the person I needed when I was younger – and that’s the greatest gift I can offer the athletes I coach today."

Jenny Meadows is a former world-class middle-distance runner and now one of Britain’s most respected athletics coaches. Recently honoured – alongside her husband – as BBC Sports Personality Coach of the Year, Jenny is a European and World medallist whose success was forged through resilience, grit and a quiet determination to prove she belonged, even when she often felt like an outsider.

In this deeply honest and moving conversation, Jenny shares how sport transformed her from a shy young girl who let her brother speak for her, to someone who found her voice, her power and her purpose through athletics.

Affectionately known as the “pocket rocket”, Jenny speaks candidly about the mindset challenges she faced, and how it took her decades to believe she deserved her place at the top of the sport.

She discusses the devastating impact of doping in athletics, the heartbreak of missing out on  podiums and finals, and how, ultimately, it was a broken heart that led her to retire.

Today, Jenny co-leads the M11 Track Club in Manchester with her husband and long-time coach, Trevor Painter, guiding a group of elite athletes including Olympic gold medallist Keely Hodgkinson.

She reflects on the joy of coaching, the role of empathy and the emotional intelligence needed to support high-performing athletes as whole people - not just performers.

A passionate advocate for greater gender diversity in coaching, Jenny also shares her hopes for the future and her commitment to creating more visibility, opportunity and community for women in the coaching space.

This is a powerful conversation about identity, belief, and finding meaning beyond medals.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

“Women’s physiology isn’t a problem to be solved - it’s an opportunity to innovate.”

In this fascinating episode of The Game Changers podcast, I speak with Professor Kirsty Elliott-Sale, one of the world’s leading researchers in female physiology, about the critical need for women-focused sports science.

From her unconventional journey into the field, to leading ground-breaking research, Kirsty challenges outdated approaches and highlights why women’s health must be at the centre of performance science, not an afterthought.

We cover:

➡️  Bridging the research gap – why we must innovate rather than simply adapt male-based models

➡️  The Centre of Excellence for Women in Sport –  how the Manchester centre is dedicated to advancing research and collaboration

➡️  ACL injuries in female athletes – does oestrogen play a role, or are we missing the bigger picture?

➡️  Menstrual-cycle-based training – the scientific evidence (or lack of it) behind tailoring training to cycle phases

➡️  Pregnancy & performance – how attitudes are shifting, and why more female athletes are competing as mothers

➡️  The future of women in sports science – how young women can break into the field and drive change

Kirsty’s message is clear: women’s physiology isn’t a limitation—it’s a strength that should be studied, understood, and embraced.

“If we only ever research men, we’ll only ever understand men. It’s time to stop playing catch-up and start leading.”

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

What does it take to lead some of the biggest sporting events in the world? 

In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Massey, Managing Director of the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025, to uncover the strategy, ambition and passion behind running global sports championships.

With over 30 years of experience, Sarah has played pivotal roles in organising major sporting events, including Olympic and Commonwealth Games and World Championships, as well as working at the very top of global sports including athletics, rugby, tennis and hockey.

Before taking this key role at World Rugby, Sarah was CEO of the World Athletics Championship Oregon22, having also worked at the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and the International Tennis Federation (ITF).

From her early days at Loughborough University to managing international sporting events, Sarah shares her journey through the world of sports leadership. She talks candidly about the challenges of organising major global events, the importance of building an inclusive and high-performing team, and the key to balancing multiple stakeholders in an ever-evolving sports landscape.

Sarah also reflects on the impact of gender equality in sport.

We explore how the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 is set to break records in attendance and visibility as Sarah offers a behind-the-scenes look at what fans can expect from the tournament, how cities and communities are embracing the event, and what legacy she hopes it will leave for women’s rugby worldwide.

If you’re passionate about sports management, leadership or the advancement of women's sports, this episode offers valuable perspectives from one of the industry's leading figures.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

"Women’s sport has come so far, but there’s still a long way to go in terms of investment and opportunity."

In this fascinating episode of The Game Changers, host Sue Anstiss sits down with Dame Tracey Crouch, an influential figure in both sports and politics. 

Tracey shares her personal journey from growing up as a passionate sports enthusiast to serving as the UK's Minister for Sport. Her political career was defined by her commitment to grassroots sport, governance reform and championing women’s participation in sport.

Tracey also opens up about her decision to step away from politics, her ongoing work in the private sector, and how her personal battle with breast cancer re-shaped her outlook on life and leadership. 

Throughout the conversation, Tracey provides unique insights into the intersection of sports and policy, the challenges facing women’s sport and the steps needed to create systemic change in the industry.

Links & Resources:

• Follow Dame Tracey Crouch on Twitter/X  and LinkedIn
• Learn more about Hanover Communications
• Follow The Game Changers Podcast

Stay Connected: Subscribe to The Game Changers for more inspiring conversations with women breaking barriers in sport. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

#TheGameChangers #TraceyCrouch #WomenInSport #Football #Leadership #Podcast

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

Hello and welcome back to The Game Changers, the podcast where you'll hear from trailblazing women in sport who are challenging the status quo for women and girls everywhere. What can we learn from their stories as we explore equality in sport and beyond.

This is the 19th series of The Game Changers and what an incredible range of guests we have. Talented, inspiring women who are changing the game in sport.

With new episodes launching every Tuesday from March 4, the guests for this series include: 

Dame Tracey Crouch – The former sports Minister, who drove huge change in British sport and served as an MP for 14 years before standing down in 2024 and becoming Managing Director of Hanover Sport

Mel Marshall – a former Olympic swimmer turned highly respected coach, best known for coaching Adam Peaty to multiple world records and Olympic golds.

Sarah Massey – Managing Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, who shares her extensive experience in delivering major international sporting events.

Professor Kirsty Elliott-Sale – a leader in female sports science and exercise physiology who heads the Centre of Excellence for Women in Sport at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Jess Thirlby - head coach of the England Netball team – Jess is a former international player with extensive experience in the sport, known for her strategic acumen and dedication to the netball community.

Khalida Popal - former captain of the Afghanistan women's national football team and a pioneering activist who has dedicated her life to empowering women through sport, advocating for gender equality, and using football as a tool for social change.

Lucy Wray – the former CEO of Saracens Rugby Club, who is now helping to shape the future of women's sport and is co-owner of London Mavericks Netball Team.

And 

Jenny Meadows - a world-class middle-distance runner, World Championship bronze medallist and Olympian, who is now an award-winning coach, recently honoured as the BBC Sports Personality Coach of the Year.

The Game Changers is available for free wherever you find your podcasts or you can listen directly from our website at fearlesswomen.co.uk. 

Please do start following the podcast now so you don’t miss out on these brilliant new conversations.

We also have a fantastic back catalogue of over free 200 episodes – including interviews with elite athletes, broadcasters, coaches, entrepreneurs, scientists, journalists and CEOs – all women who are changing the game in sport.

The whole of Sue Anstiss’ book ‘Game On: The Unstoppable Rise of Women’s Sport’ is also available on the podcast. You’ll find a free audio book in series 13.

As well as listening to The Game Changers on the Fearless Women website, it’s also where you can find out more about the Women's Sport Collective, a free inclusive community for all women working in sport. We now have over 10,000 members across the world, so please do come and join us. 

Do come and say hello on social media where you’ll find the host of The Game Changers @sueanstiss 

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

“Anyone can get abused. Smart people, really intelligent people, old people, young people, beautiful people, average looking people. It doesn't matter who you are, you're not like exempt because of any characteristics that you have.”
Mhairi Maclennan, Kyniska Advocacy 

Today’s episode of The Game Changers podcast could be the most important ever. 

Over the past five years it’s been a privilege to share the stories of 150 trailblazers in women’s sport and to explore topics around equality in sport and beyond.

This final episode of series 18 considers a topic that should concern everyone that loves sport – how do we keep it safe for all participants? This episode is a must listen for all parents of children in sport, along everyone working in the sports industry.  

My guest is Mhairi Maclennan, the co-founder of Kyniska Advocacy. Mhairi is an elite GB athlete, who, in 2021, made the extraordinarily brave decision to waive her right to anonymity after suffering sexual abuse at the hands of her coach. 

Following a hugely impactful campaign that saw her coach’s three-year exclusion from athletics increased to a lifetime ban, Mhairi and fellow athlete Kate Seary founding Kyniska Advocacy, the UK’s only athlete-led and sport-wide safe sport organisation. 

I learnt so much in this powerful conversation with Mhairi. 

I was shocked to discover that there’s no obligation for sports to report coaches found guilty of sexual abuse to the police or local authorities; no central register exists to track banned coaches in the UK or globally and no independent body exists across sports to deal with the most serious cases.

Mhairi also provides incredibly useful guidance about what we should all be looking out for when it comes to abuse in sport, what the law says and what still needs to change.

In the episode we talk about Kyniska’s excellent Manifesto for the Future of Safe Sport. Here’s a link to the website where you will find it and many other useful resources: https://www.kyniskaadvocacy.com/

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production

Our guest today is Mel Bound the founder of This Woman Runs (formerly This Mum Runs), the world's largest digital and in-person running community for women. 

Mel is driven by her vision to inspire women everywhere to enjoy the life-changing benefits of being active and in this inspiring episode shares her journey from a chronically asthmatic child to a successful entrepreneur.

We explore how what started as a local women's running group in Bristol in 2014 has evolved into a powerful, global movement for over a quarter of a million women.

Mel talks about her experiences of running health clubs in the fitness industry and how she recognised it’s actually a space that fails many women. We discuss Mel’s transition to working sports events at Alan Pascoe’s Fast Track in the 90’s, a place that provided the foundation for many leaders in sport today.  

Mel shares the accidental creation of This Mum Runs, the challenges of building a community, and the impact of COVID on its growth. 

We discuss the challenges female founders face in securing funding, the innovative strategies TWR has employed to grow the community-focused business, and the importance of creating supportive environments for female entrepreneurs in sport.

Thank you to Sport England who support The Game Changers Podcast with a National Lottery award.

Find out more about The Game Changers podcast here: https://www.fearlesswomen.co.uk/thegamechangers

Hosted by Sue Anstiss
Produced by Sam Walker, What Goes On Media

A Fearless Women production