Welcome to Tactical Thinker, the Podcast where I will be talking to tremendous Tactical Thinkers!
tactica1thinker.substack.com (https://tactica1thinker.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast)
"Kites in Brazil" | John Tapia-Owens - Head Coach of England Futsal
Today, we’re talking all things futsal with John Tapia-Owens — from his journey into coaching and the philosophy behind the England team, to the tactical details that make the game so unique. We’ll also explore what makes this current squad exciting, how players are prepared for the international stage, and where futsal in England could be heading next.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tactica1thinker.substack.com (https://tactica1thinker.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
29 Apr 2026
Dan Abrahams | Part 2 - COMPETE!!
What separates the best from the rest
Why psychology—not talent alone—is the real differentiator at the top level. Dan Abrahams shares his origin story, key influences, and the misconceptions about “mental toughness” that still dominate the conversation.
Inside the practitioner’s toolkit
How sessions actually work with athletes, earning trust mid-season, and the common pressure patterns that derail performance—overthinking, rushing, and playing it safe. Includes a practical breakdown of what to do in the 60 seconds before a high-stakes moment.
Identity, confidence and resilience
The danger of tying identity entirely to sport, helping athletes who look confident but doubt themselves internally, and building routines that survive travel, injuries and selection uncertainty. A candid discussion on whether resilience comes from mindset, skills or environment.
Advice for coaches and parents
How to respond to mistakes in a way that builds learning instead of fear, creating psychological safety without lowering standards, embedding mental skills into training naturally, and navigating post-game conversations with young athletes.
Performance habits and goal setting
The one habit elite performers share that most amateurs overlook, how to stay consistent when motivation dips, and the real trade-offs between outcome, performance and process goals. Plus: which mental skills can actually backfire if used the wrong way.
The book
A deep dive into the Dans new book: who it’s for, the core framework, the chapter that was hardest to write, and the single principle they’d want every reader to apply. The episode closes with one actionable takeaway listeners can try this week.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tactica1thinker.substack.com (https://tactica1thinker.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
19 Mar 2026
Danny Barham | Developing the modern pro at Birmingham City FC
The podcast explores Danny Barham’s coaching journey into Birmingham City’s U21s, the influences that shaped his philosophy, and how he defines his coaching style. It examines the role of the U21s within the club’s pathway, key differences from the U18s, and when players begin to feel the demands of senior football. Danny is asked about alignment with first‑team principles, the structure of a typical training week, and the non‑technical qualities he prioritises at this level. The conversation looks at how individualised development becomes, how he balances winning with long‑term growth, and what he expects from players out of possession. It also addresses challenges in transitioning to senior football, what separates nearly‑pros from those who make it, and how he prepares players mentally for setbacks like injuries or non‑selection. Further topics include the importance of loan moves, his involvement during them, and the impact of data, performance analysis, and sports science—plus how to use technology without overwhelming players. Finally, he offers advice for young players, parents, and aspiring coaches, before finishing with quick‑fire insights on non‑negotiables, underrated skills, habits, and moments of player readiness.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tactica1thinker.substack.com (https://tactica1thinker.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
2 Mar 2026
Tactx | For coaches, By coaches
This week on the Tactical Thinker podcast
I’m joined by Michael and David from Tactx to break down modern football tactics through a practical coaching lens.
We discuss how Tactx started, the gap they saw in online coaching content, and the experiences that shaped their coaching philosophies. The conversation explores misunderstood tactical concepts, influential coaches and teams, and current trends they believe are overrated in today’s game.
Michael and David also share how they grew the Tactx platform, how they decide which tactical ideas are worth posting, and how they deal with criticism and debate online — all while keeping their content practical for real coaches on the grass.
We finish with a rapid‑fire round covering formations, favourite practices, respected analysts, the future of football tactics, and advice for young coaches starting out.
- A must‑listen for coaches, analysts, and anyone interested in the tactical side of football.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tactica1thinker.substack.com (https://tactica1thinker.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
31 Oct 2025
Craig Birtwistle | The formula for winning the Nationals in USA
Football coach Craig Birtwistle discusses his journey into coaching, core philosophy, and training techniques in an interview with Tactical Thinker The Podcast.
27 Oct 2025
Rob Porter | The golden age of player development - Foundation Phase coaching
Rob Porter discusses the golden age of player development and foundation phase coaching with the host in this interview episode.
17 Sept 2025
Ray Power | I have the Power for superiorities
Tonight’s podcast with Ray; Ray, shares his journey into football coaching, inspired by his passion for the game and a desire to mentor young players. He describes his coaching philosophy as player-centric, emphasizing core principles such as discipline, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Ray discusses his favourite training techniques, which include dynamic and engaging sessions designed to keep players motivated and effective. He highlights the importance of player development, focusing on nurturing young talent and looking for qualities like dedication and adaptability. Ray also shares the challenges he has faced in his coaching career, along with memorable success stories that have shaped his approach. He talks about game strategy, preparation for big matches, and the methods he uses to inspire and motivate his team. Additionally, Ray emphasizes the need to stay updated with the latest trends in football coaching, adapting his leadership style to different situations and players, and building strong team cohesion. He also discusses handling conflicts, selecting team captains, and the importance of communication and empowering players. Finally, Ray offers advice for aspiring coaches, encouraging them to be patient, persistent, and always willing to learn.
Lastly can you pick out the quote he says?
Thanks for listening as always!!
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tactica1thinker.substack.com (https://tactica1thinker.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
26 Jul 2025
Ben Pinnington | Co-coach UK
Tactical Thinker The Podcast episode features Ben Pennington discussing his coaching and teaching experiences, including his roles with Co-CoachUK, Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea Foundation, University of Chichester, Portsmouth FC Academy, Pompey FC Women, and his UEFA A license, focusing on coach mentoring, professional development, and career support for football coaches at various levels.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tactica1thinker.substack.com (https://tactica1thinker.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
18 May 2025
Coach-size | 5Ws of Interventions
Tonight on, On The Line Podcast, I am joined by my co-host Shaun Park, for our 30 minute Coach-size discussion that revolves around the "5Ws of Interventions," addressing what, when, why, where, and who uses them in a football/soccer coaching context.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rossflintoft.substack.com (https://rossflintoft.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
18 May 2025
Scott Noble | Coaching/Teaching or developing Coaches... That is the question!
This morning On The Line Podcast, features a discussion with guest Scott Noble about coaching and developing coaches in football/soccer. Including the importance of connections with players, team cohesion, player autonomy, building a coaching reputation, coaching development, and aspirations within football.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rossflintoft.substack.com (https://rossflintoft.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
14 May 2025
Ben Pennington | Co-CoachUK
Tonight on, On The Line Podcast I have Ben Pennigton, who will talk about Co-CoachUK, coach mentoring, and the differences between coaching and teaching, along with his experiences at Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea Foundation, University of Chichester, and Portsmouth FC, and his UEFA A license.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rossflintoft.substack.com (https://rossflintoft.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
21 Apr 2025
Dan Abrahams | 'All about the Psych'
The On The Line Podcast features a chat with Dan Abrahams, diving into the psychological side of football. We talk about how to get players engaged, help them learn better, and boost their performance through confidence, concentration, self-control, and motivation. We also touch on mental health and well-being in coaching practices. It's a great listen for anyone interested in the mental game of football!
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rossflintoft.substack.com (https://rossflintoft.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
17 Apr 2025
Ben Andreos | Unscripted Pt. 2
Tonight I speak to Ben with a unscripted script - A MUST listen to hear how we get on!
#OTLPOD
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rossflintoft.substack.com (https://rossflintoft.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
24 Mar 2025
A week in a new club
A week in a new club
Tonight I speak with Shaun about a week in a new club, whether that is in grassroots, academy settings or our fun scenario at Juventus!
Thanks for listening #OTLPOD
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rossflintoft.substack.com (https://rossflintoft.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
2,473
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 17 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
4
Social presence
0
YouTube
74
Engagement
0
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