After coming through the academies at Man United, Man City and Burnley, Ntumba Massanka took a path few footballers choose. Instead of following the well-trodden routes after departing the pro game, he threw himself into his family business, Tshibangz Bakes, while continuing to play part-time - currently turning out for Daisy Hill. From early mornings in the bakery to evenings on the pitch, Ntumba is proving there’s more than one way to create a fulfilling future beyond football.

After coming through the academy system at Leicester City, Hervé Pepé-Ngoma’s early career was hampered by injury. Alongside part-time football, he discovered a new passion in music, turning his love for DJ’ing into a thriving career. Now also supporting League Football Education’s Life Skills programme as a cultural identity mentor, Hervé helps young athletes understand who they are beyond their sport.

From captaining Loughborough’s first team to making her senior debut for Great Britain, up-and-coming hockey talent Beth Alexander has her whole career ahead of her. In this episode, she reflects on the key moments that have shaped her athletic journey - from international call-ups to building resilience through injury setbacks - and shares how she’s laying the foundations to thrive off the pitch, as well as on it.

In this uplifting and thoughtful conversation, Port Vale Women captain, Meg Baldwin, reflects on her journey from the pitch to broadcasting and teaching, how she built confidence in new arenas, and why visibility and opportunity are crucial for the next generation of athletes - especially young women.