In this powerful episode, we sit down with Callum Powell, founder of CP Coaching Academy, alongside former Coventry City footballers Dave “Benno” Bennett and Kirk Stephens, for a conversation about youth football, access, resilience, and the realities of the game — past and present.

Callum shares his personal football journey, including the defining moment of being released from a club at 16–17, and how that experience became the foundation for his mission. Rather than turning away from football, Callum built CP Coaching Academy to ensure children can access football regardless of their financial background, through schemes designed to remove cost as a barrier.

Former Coventry City player Dave Bennett speaks candidly about facing racism when he first started playing football, opening up about the abuse he endured and how it shaped him as a player. His reflections offer crucial perspective on how football culture has evolved — and where it still needs to do better.

Kirk Stephens adds his own insight into professional football, setbacks, and personal growth, delivering one of the episode’s most powerful moments with the phrase: “Failing was my inspiration.”

Throughout the conversation, we explore:

• Racism in football

• Being released from a club as a teenager and rebuilding confidence

• Why accessible grassroots football is essential for the future of the game

• The importance of parental support, commitment, and belief in young players

• How setbacks, rejection, and adversity can become fuel rather than failure

We also discuss Ur Subs, what it is, what we stand for, and how we aim to support grassroots football and young talent.