Pit Yakka Craic

Ep 9. "The Making of a Midfielder". Tommy Miller Pt1

Summary
In this engaging conversation, Tommy Miller shares his journey from growing up in Shotton Colliery to becoming a professional footballer. He discusses the influences that shaped his career, including his father's support and the challenges he faced along the way. Tommy reflects on his time at Ipswich Town, Hartlepool United, and Sunderland, providing insights into the pressures of playing for his hometown club and the impact of management styles, particularly that of Roy Keane. The discussion also touches on the evolution of football and the importance of mental toughness in the sport.
 
 
Takeaways
Tommy Miller had a strong upbringing in Shotton Colliery.
His father was a significant influence on his football career.
Tommy's early football experiences shaped his mental toughness.
He transitioned to Ipswich Town as a schoolboy and faced challenges.
Miller's breakthrough came at Hartlepool United, where he scored many goals.
He experienced the highs and lows of playing in the Premier League.
Relegation from the Premier League was a turning point in his career.
Returning to Sunderland was a dream come true for him.
Miller reflects on the pressures of playing for his hometown club.
He shares insights on Roy Keane's management style and its impact on players.
 
Sound bites
"I never forget your roots."
"You've got to be mentally strong."
"I never thought I'd made it."
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
05:21 Transition to Professional Football
11:12 Signing with Ipswich Town
17:18 Life in the Lower Leagues
22:56 Experiences in European Football
28:40 Finding Success in the Championship
38:47 Transitioning from Ipswich to Sunderland
44:51 Adapting to Premier League Challenges
50:00 The Impact of Family on a Football Career
57:43 The Importance of Mentorship in Football
01:03:42 The Challenges of Management and Player Expectations
01:13:38 Final Thoughts on Leaving Sunderland
01:17:29

Ep.8. “From Cruise Ships to the Queens Funeral. Ewan Atkinson’s Journey”

In this episode, Ewan Atkinson shares his journey from a young music enthusiast to a student bandmaster in the army. He discusses his experiences in music, including arranging for military bands, performing on cruise ships, and the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ewan also reflects on significant events like the Queen's funeral and his aspirations for the future in the army and music.takeaways​Ewan is currently a student bandmaster in the army.​He started playing the saxophone at age 14.​Ewan arranged a military ensemble version of 'Murder on a Dance Floor'.​His cruise ship experiences included performing and traveling.​He faced challenges during COVID-19 while on a cruise ship.​Ewan arranged music for significant events like the Queen's funeral.​He aims to influence others' music careers in the army.​Ewan values making good music with good musicians.​He reflects on how his younger self would view his current life.​Ewan is excited about his future in the army and music.​From Saxophone to Soldier: Ewan's Musical Journey​Ewan Atkinson: The Conductor's PathSound Bites​"I can do any instruction."​"I started playing saxophone at 14."​"I want to make really good music."
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ewan Atkinson02:40 Ewan's Journey in Music04:56 Cruise Ship Experiences07:56 Life on a Cruise Ship08:28Navigating COVID-19 on a Cruise Ship20:46 Navigating Social Distancing at Sea23:22 The Emotional Toll of Leaving Friends Behind24:32 Adapting to Remote Work and Technology24:59 The Shift in Work Culture and Communication25:21 Transitioning from Cruise Ships to the Army28:57 Significant Musical Experiences and Opportunities32:35 Participating in Historic Events37:48 Future Aspirations in the Army and Music

Ep 7. “From Analog Days to Digital Times: Peter Hatfields Story”

In this episode, Pit Yakka engages in a heartfelt conversation with Peter Hatfield, exploring his childhood in Middlesbrough, family dynamics, career transitions, and the impact of football on his life. Peter reflects on the differences between analog and digital childhoods, the importance of creativity, and the challenges of parenting in a digital age. He shares his journey from art college to working in the creative industry, and eventually to volunteering in a drug and alcohol project, where he found a new sense of purpose. The conversation also touches on the joys and challenges of being a parent, the lessons learned from football, and the decision to move to Devon for a more fulfilling life.takeaways​Peter had an idyllic childhood in Middlesbrough, filled with outdoor activities.​He was the youngest of three siblings and felt indulged by his family.​The conversation highlights the contrast between analog and digital childhoods.​Peter believes that key skills from analog childhoods may be lost in future generations.​He emphasizes the importance of balance between digital and real-world experiences.​Peter's career journey took him from art college to working in the creative industry.​He found new purpose by volunteering in a drug and alcohol project.​The importance of being courteous and respectful in everyday interactions is discussed.​Peter shares fond memories of being a host family for young footballers.​The conversation concludes with reflections on the challenges and joys of being a football fan.​From Middlesbrough to Devon: A Life Journey​The Impact of Childhood on Adult Life
Sound bites:​"It was a great childhood."​"It's about balance, isn't it?"​"I was a bit of a loner."
Chapters00:00Childhood Reflections: Growing Up in Middlesbrough04:59The Analog vs. Digital Childhood Debate20:58Career Transitions: From Art to Meaningful Work26:08Navigating Parenthood and Opportunities31:03The Quest for Meaning in Work36:06The Changing Nature of Football and Its Economy42:39Reflections on a Life Well Lived

Ep 6. “Stuart Brightwell: The Rise, The Fall, The Return”

This conversation explores the journey of Stuart Brightwell, from his early experiences in football, trials with England schoolboys, and his dream of playing for Manchester United, to the struggles he faced balancing fame and personal life. It delves into his transition from professional football to semi-pro, and ultimately his coaching career in America, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way.takeaways​Stuart's early football experiences shaped his passion for the game.​Trials with England schoolboys were a pivotal moment in Stuart's career.​Playing for Manchester United was a dream come true for Stuart.​The lack of support for young players in the past was a significant challenge.​Stuart's struggles with gambling and lifestyle choices impacted his career.​Transitioning from professional to semi-pro football was a difficult adjustment.​Coaching in America provided a fresh start for Stuart.​The camaraderie in the football community is essential for young players.​Stuart's journey reflects the highs and lows of a sports career.​The importance of mentorship and guidance in youth sports.
Sound bites:​"I got a cap out of it. I got a cap."​"I was on my own with no support."​"I was living with Capono Low."

Ep 5. "PYC x IfUCareShare"

In this episode of Pit Yakka Craic, Matthew Smith from If U Care Share Foundation shares his personal journey of founding the charity after losing his brother to suicide. The conversation delves into the high rates of suicide in the North East, the importance of community support, and the complexities surrounding mental health. Matthew emphasizes the need for open conversations about suicide, the role of empathy in supporting those in crisis, and the various resources available for individuals struggling with mental health. The episode also highlights the Inside Out campaign aimed at raising awareness and encouraging discussions about suicide prevention. Ultimately, Matthew delivers a message of hope, reminding listeners that there is support available and that life can continue after loss.
 
Takeaways
If You Care Share was founded after the loss of Matthew's brother to suicide.
The North East has one of the highest suicide rates in England and Wales.
Community plays a crucial role in mental health and suicide prevention.
Suicide is a complex issue with various contributing factors.
The Inside Out campaign encourages open conversations about suicide.
Empathy and active listening are vital when supporting someone in crisis.
There are many resources available for those struggling with mental health.
Fundraising is essential for charities like If You Care Share to continue their work.
It's important to ask how someone is doing and to be prepared for the answer.
There is hope and support available for those affected by suicide.
 
Titles
Breaking the Silence on Suicide
Community and Mental Health: A Conversation with Matthew Smith
Sound Bites
"Fundraising keeps our charity alive."
"Empathy is key in supporting others."
"There is a life after suicide."
Chapters
00:00Introduction to If You Care, Share Foundation
01:47The Journey of Grief and Community Impact
04:49The Role of Community in Suicide Prevention
07:04Understanding Suicide Rates and Contributing Factors
09:48The Complexity of Loss and Coping Mechanisms
13:25The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health
17:20Services Offered by If You Care, Share
21:02Fundraising and Volunteering Opportunities
23:16The Importance of Conversations in Mental Health
25:58Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
31:07Inside Out Campaign for Suicide Prevention
38:08The Importance of Preparedness in Conversations about Mental Health
40:17Empathy vs. Sympathy: The Key to Effective Listening
42:43Personal Experiences: Conversations with Loved Ones
45:52The Hidden Struggles: Understanding Mental Health Masks
48:06Navigating Neurodiversity and Mental Health
55:25Life After Suicide: Finding Hope and Support
56:00

Ep 4. “From Easington to Man United Academy”

The conversation explores the origins of Pit Yakka Craic, detailing the family's journey from Easington Village to their experiences in youth football, particularly focusing on the impact of growing up in North Crescent and the significance of the Man United Academy and Lilleshall in shaping their football careers.Takeaways​The origins of Pit Yakka Craic are rooted in family stories.​Life in Easington Village provided a unique childhood experience.​Growing up in North Crescent fostered a love for football.​Football was a central part of their upbringing.​The importance of family support in pursuing football careers.​Experiences at the Man United Academy were pivotal.​Lilleshaw offered a unique opportunity for young footballers.​Grassroots football plays a crucial role in development.​The journey through youth football is filled with challenges.​Mental strength is essential for success in sports.
Sound bites:​"You were my one-to-one coach."​"It was an amazing opportunity."​"It was a proud moment really."

Ep 3. “Premier League Predictions: Who’s Up, Who’s Down?”

In this episode, Sonny and Stuart Brightwell dive into the excitement surrounding the new football season, discussing the Premier League and Championship teams, player transfers, and predictions for the upcoming season. They analyze the strengths and weaknesses of various clubs, including Middlesbrough, Arsenal, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Newcastle, while also touching on Sunderland's ambitions and the impact of player awareness on success. The conversation culminates in predictions for the top and bottom teams in the league, setting the stage for an engaging season ahead.Takeaways​The anticipation for the new football season is palpable.​Middlesbrough's focus should be on the league rather than cup competitions.​Player awareness is crucial for success in football.​Bruno Fernandes plays a unique role at Manchester United.​Middlesbrough's new signings could impact their season positively.​Wrexham has the potential to achieve promotion again.​Arsenal's new signings may help them challenge for the title.​Aston Villa's strategy involves bringing in lesser-known players.​Chelsea's new faces could make them competitive this season.​Newcastle's transfer dilemmas could affect their performance.
Sound bites:​"I think Boro can get top sort of top six."​"I think Arsenal will be in the top four."​"I think Burnley will go back down."​Chapters00:00 Excitement for the New Football Season06:32 Middlesbrough's Season Outlook13:32 Wrexham's Ambitions in the Championship20:54 Aston Villa's Transfer Strategy26:49 Liverpool's Challenges and Changes32:08 The Role of Agents in Transfers35:42 Manchester City's Title Aspirations41:58 Sunderland's Ambitious Transfers

Ep 2. “Why We’ll Never Forget Where We Came From”

In the inaugural episode of Pit Yakka Craic, the hosts delve into the rich history and personal stories surrounding their upbringing in Easington Colliery. They explore themes of community, family life, and the impact of football on their lives, while reflecting on the changes in society and the decline of their hometown. The conversation is filled with nostalgia, humour, and poignant insights into the past, highlighting the resilience and camaraderie of a close-knit community. Takeaways​The origins of Pit Yakka Craic are rooted in personal stories.​Growing up in a colliery shaped their mentality and values.​Family life was characterized by equality and community support.​Football was a central part of their upbringing and social life.​Nostalgia for simpler times is a recurring theme in their stories.​The decline of Easington reflects broader societal changes.​Memories of childhood play highlight the differences in today's youth.​Marriage and relationships are significant milestones in their lives.​Career paths were influenced by the local economy and opportunities.​The conversation reveals a deep connection to their roots and community.
The Pit Yakka Story sound bites:​"Football was everything for us growing up."​"I took my redundancy and got a decent deal."​"They're not running them for you, son."
Chapters00:00 The Origin Story of Pit Yakka Craic05:28 Family Dynamics and Memories11:14 The Role of Sports in Community16:39 The Impact of the Mining Industry21:54 The Evolution of Football Culture26:57 The Future of Easington and Its Community37:58 The Intricacies of Betting and Corruption