This week, we sit down with a true footballing legend — Francis Benali. The dad of our very own Kenzi, Francis is a one-club man who dedicated 20 years to Southampton FC, making close to 400 appearances and earning cult hero status along the way. Now a respected broadcaster, keynote speaker, and tireless charity fundraiser, he’s raised an incredible £1.4 million for Cancer Research UK.

In this brilliant interview, Kenzi and Jim dive into Franny’s world — from his early days dreaming of being a footballer, inspired by school and a pivotal PE teacher, to breaking through the ranks of England School boys to Southampton FC. Where he shared the pitch with club legends like Matt Le Tissier, Jimmy Case, and Alan Shearer. Francis reflects on those formative years, the players who shaped his journey, and the unforgettable characters he encountered along the way.

The conversation also turns to the unforgettable characters he shared the pitch with — from Saints legends like Matt Le Tissier, Jimmy Case, and Alan Shearer, to facing off against icons such as Jürgen Klinsmann, Eric Cantona, and Ian Wright. He offers fascinating insights into what it was like to play alongside and against some of football’s biggest names.

Away from the pitch, Francis shares candid stories about his incredible charity work. From running a marathon every morning to cycling 75 miles a day, his relentless drive to raise money for Cancer Research UK earned him the nickname ‘Iron Fran’. He speaks honestly about the physical and emotional toll those challenges took, the strain on his family, and the unshakable sense of purpose that kept him moving forward through unimaginable pain.

Now, with football behind him, Francis talks about his current life — from punditry to motivational speaking, and how those platforms allow him to share his experiences and inspire others in business, education, and sport. He also discusses his new autobiography, the encouragement he received from friends to finally tell his story, and the surprising moment when even a UK Prime Minister publicly praised his book.

This is a heartfelt, inspiring conversation with a local hero and national treasure. Whether you’re a Saints fan, a football lover, or someone in need of motivation, this one’s for you.

Watch now — and be ready to be inspired by the unstoppable Francis Benali.

🌐 https://francisbenali.com

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What does it really take to reach Olympic gold? Join us for an inspiring conversation with British gymnastics legend, Beth Tweddle! We go deep into her incredible journey, uncovering the unwavering dedication, mental toughness, and sheer resilience that propelled her to the top. Beth shares exclusive behind-the-scenes stories from her Olympic experiences, offers invaluable advice for aspiring athletes, and reflects on the enduring legacy of her remarkable career. Whether you're a die-hard gymnastics fan or simply captivated by stories of human achievement, this is an episode you absolutely can't miss!

Inside this episode, you'll discover:

- Beth's personal account of her journey to Olympic glory.

- The untold stories behind the medals and the training.

- Her invaluable advice for young athletes striving for success.

- Reflections on the lasting impact of her career on British gymnastics.

- And much more!

Ready to be inspired? Hit that LIKE button, leave a COMMENT with your favourite Beth Tweddle moment, and SUBSCRIBE to Beyond the Sport for more incredible athlete stories! 🎥🏉

🌐 www.gymfinitykids.com

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In this week’s brilliant episode, we sit down with Keegan Goss and Michael Green (aka Pickle) — and yes, he explains where that brilliant nickname comes from!

The lads open up about growing up in the Southern Hemisphere and reflect on their younger years back in New Zealand 🌿. They talk about the outdoor, carefree lifestyle, their first memories of picking up a rugby ball, and how being surrounded by sport shaped who they are today.

Pickle, who joined Nottingham in 2022, shares his journey since graduating in 2018 - from travelling the world 🌍 whilst chasing his rugby dreams, and what’s still to come as he hits 30 with no plans of slowing down.

Keegan also takes us through his own journey, playing in Ireland and Italy before arriving in Nottingham, and how rugby helped him. He even confesses to a short-lived cricket career at school before rugby stole his heart.

They both chat about:

School PE memories 🏏🏉

The importance of having great mentors growing up

The challenges of moving abroad for sport

Handling injuries and bouncing back

Their shared love of lawn bowls (because, why not? 😄)

Pickle talks about his Community Manager role and coaching in local schools and using touch rugby to inspire the next generation. Both players are passionate about showing kids the power of rugby — from teamwork to respect, on and off the pitch.

They even get into the meaning of the haka, how they learned it, and hint that we might just see a Pickle haka soon 👀🔥.

An honest, feel-good chat with two top blokes about life, rugby, and giving back. You don’t want to miss it.

Subscribe and stay tuned for more stories from Beyond the Sport! 🎥🏉

🌐 www.nottinghamrugby.co.uk/ - Nottingham Rugby

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