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Paul Richardson joins us on Made in Brum for a fascinating conversation about business, Birmingham City and a life built in the city he calls home.A Brummie through and through, Paul takes us right back to his beginnings and the entrepreneurial journey that took him from the waste industry to becoming involved with AllSaints, Gymshark and HERA.   Of course, we talk Birmingham City. Paul tells us how he first became involved with Blues, joining the PLC board during the David Sullivan, Karren Brady and David Gold era and experiencing promotion to the Premier League from the inside.   We then get into his later attempts to buy the club — including the consortium that ultimately came close to taking control before the arrival of Knighthead. Paul gives his own account of what happened behind the scenes, the due diligence, the people involved, why the deal eventually reached the point where he felt he had to walk away, and what that period was like for him personally. As Paul puts it, Birmingham City was different: “It was because it was Blues. I wouldn't have done any other club just for the sake of it.”A proper Made in Brum conversation — business, football, Birmingham and plenty of stories along the way.🎙️ Paul Richardson | Made in Brum🌿 This episode is proudly sponsored by Flowers LTD — Landscape Gardening & Driveway Specialists, with over 25 years' experience transforming gardens, outdoor spaces and driveways across the Midlands.   👍 Like the video💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments🔔 Subscribe to Made in Brum for more long-form conversations with people from Birmingham and beyond. Real People. Real Stories. Brum.#PaulRichardson #BirminghamCity #BCFC #KRO #MadeInBrum #Gymshark #Birmingham

Ricky Otto's journey is one of the most extraordinary we've had on Made in Brum. Growing up in Hackney, Ricky's early life took him down a path that eventually led to prison. But football gave him an opportunity to completely change the direction of his life. He went on to play professionally for Leyton Orient and Southend United, before Barry Fry brought him to Birmingham City, where Ricky became part of the Blues side that won at Wembley in 1995. And the stories are some of the best we've had. Prison life. Being allowed out to play football. Barry Fry. Birmingham City. Razor Ruddock. Silencing the Kop. Wembley. The mistakes he made along the way — and what happened when football eventually finished. Because Ricky's story didn't end when he hung up his boots. He went on to work with offenders, studied theology and ultimately became a pastor in Birmingham — using his own experiences to try to stop others following the path he'd once taken himself. PRISON. PITCH. PULPIT.Three completely different chapters of one remarkable life. 🎙️ Ricky Otto — the FULL Made in Brum conversation.🌿 Powered by Flowers Ltd — Landscape Gardening & Driveway Specialists in the Midlands.👍 Like the video💬 Tell us your Ricky Otto memories below🔔 Subscribe for more incredible stories from Birmingham and beyond.

Damien Trainor sits down with Made in Brum to tell the complete story of his life in Muay Thai—from discovering the sport and building his professional fight career to competing in brutal title contests around the world. Damien opens up about the toughest opponents he faced, breaking his hand during a five-round war and the sacrifices required to succeed at the highest level. He also explores the traditions and fighting culture of Thailand, explains how British and Thai fighters approach the sport differently and shares what Muay Thai has taught him about discipline, respect and resilience. The conversation also covers: 🥊 Damien’s journey into professional fighting🏆 His toughest fights and career-defining victories🩼 Breaking his hand—and continuing to fight🇹🇭 Training, competing and spending time in Thailand🔥 The relentless Dutch kickboxing style🏠 Building K-Star Legacy Gym🧠 Coaching and developing the next generation⭐ The legacy he hopes to leave behind This is the complete story of a Birmingham fighter, coach and gym owner who has dedicated his life to Muay Thai. Subscribe to Made in Brum and turn on notifications for more remarkable stories from Birmingham and beyond. Also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Barry Fry. One of football’s great characters — and there genuinely will never be another one like him.In this special Made in Brum podcast, Barry sits down with us for a brilliant, completely unfiltered journey through a lifetime in football. From his unforgettable time at Birmingham City, the players he signed, the deals he pulled off and the ones that got away, to the madness behind the scenes and some of the biggest characters he encountered along the way. Barry talks about discovering and dealing in players including Ivan Toney, Dwight Gayle and Britt Assombalonga, the millions made through clever transfers and sell-on clauses, and exactly what went into his famous wheeling and dealing. But the stories go way beyond transfers. Expect tales of players, managers, chairmen, dressing rooms, bust-ups, unbelievable negotiations and the sort of things that simply wouldn't happen in football today. And, as you'd expect from Barry, absolutely nothing is held back. Funny, fascinating, chaotic and at times completely unbelievable — this is Barry Fry in full flow. 🎙️ Made in Brum — real people, real stories, proper Birmingham.Watch the full Barry Fry podcast and let us know your favourite story in the comments.#BarryFry #BirminghamCity #BCFC #PeterboroughUnited #Football #IvanToney #MadeInBrum #FootballPodcast

⚠️ Viewer discretion advised: This episode contains discussion of a serious football injury. Dave Busst joins Made in Brum to reflect on an extraordinary football journey—from grassroots football to the Premier League with Coventry City, before suffering one of the most devastating injuries the game has ever seen. In this honest and inspiring conversation, Dave talks about: ⚽ His rise to professional football ⚽ Playing under Ron Atkinson at Coventry City ⚽ The tackle that ended his playing career ⚽ Undergoing 24 operations and the road to recovery ⚽ Sir Alex Ferguson, Eric Cantona and his unforgettable testimonial ⚽ Football in the 1990s and life at Highfield Road ⚽ Why football clubs have a vital role in supporting health, wellbeing and local communities today This isn't just a story about injury—it's a story about resilience, perspective and finding purpose beyond football. If you enjoy honest conversations with the people who've lived football's greatest moments, please like, subscribe and turn on notifications for more exclusive episodes. Powered by Brum Life.

Tamworth’s Charlie Williams joins Made in Brum to tell the remarkable story of leaving boxing as an undefeated Midland champion and beginning a new life as an actor. Charlie takes us inside the changing room before his final fight, recalling the pressure, fear and self-doubt he experienced before delivering a dramatic eighth-round stoppage at Villa Park. Despite being offered big money and a potential fight with Joe Cordina, Charlie walked away at the top — a decision he describes as the best he ever made. He also discusses growing up in a proud boxing family, his lifelong love of Birmingham City, working alongside stars including Shia LaBeouf, Toby Kebbell and Michael Fassbender, and his ambition to create opportunities for working-class actors in Birmingham. In a deeply personal conversation, Charlie opens up about losing his sister to suicide and the impact it has had on him and his family. This is a story about pressure, grief, identity and finding a new purpose after sport. ⚠️ This episode contains discussion of suicide and bereavement. Subscribe to Made in Brum for more honest conversations with the people shaping Birmingham and the Midlands. #CharlieWilliams #MadeInBrum #BirminghamCity #BCFC #Boxing #BritishBoxing #Tamworth #Acting #MentalHealth #ShiaLaBeouf

⚠️ This episode contains discussions of terrorism, bereavement and trauma that some viewers may find distressing. In one of the most powerful episodes we've ever recorded, we sit down with Julie Hambleton and Pete Hannon from Justice4the21 to discuss the lasting impact of the Birmingham Pub Bombings and why, more than 50 years later, families are still searching for answers. Julie lost her sister, Maxine Hambleton, in the Birmingham Pub Bombings on 21 November 1974. In this deeply moving conversation, she reflects on growing up with unimaginable loss, the lifelong effects of trauma, and why the fight for truth and justice continues today. Together, Julie and Pete explain the work of Justice4the21, the misconceptions surrounding the bombings, the emotional decision to meet Paddy Hill, and why they believe the full truth has yet to be uncovered. This isn't just a conversation about history. It's about grief, resilience, unanswered questions, and ensuring the voices of the victims and their families are never forgotten. In this episode: 🕊️ Julie's memories of her sister Maxine 💔 Living with grief for over 50 years 📍 The Birmingham Pub Bombings and their lasting impact ⚖️ Why Justice4the21 continues to campaign today 🤝 Meeting Paddy Hill and changing perspectives 📰 The role of the media and public perception 🏛️ Unanswered questions and the search for truth ❤️ Remembering the 21 innocent victims Regardless of your knowledge of the events of 1974, this is an important conversation about justice, humanity and the lifelong impact of terrorism. If you found this episode moving or informative, please consider liking the video, subscribing to Made in Brum, and sharing it so more people can hear these important stories.

Former Birmingham City favourite, Aston Villa defender and England youth coach Noel Blake joins us for an honest, funny and fascinating conversation about a lifetime in football. From the intensity of the Second City Derby to representing England, coaching future stars and reflecting on the modern game, Noel shares incredible stories from every chapter of his career. He relives unforgettable Birmingham City vs Aston Villa clashes, talks about THAT derby penalty, clears up one of the biggest misconceptions from his playing days, discusses his journey into coaching with England’s youth teams and gives his thoughts on developing the next generation of talent. This is a football conversation packed with humour, honesty and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most respected figures in the game. In this episode: ⚽ Birmingham City memories 💙 The Second City Derby and Aston Villa rivalry 🎯 THAT penalty against Villa 👀 Setting the record straight on one of football’s biggest misconceptions 🏴 Coaching England’s next generation ⭐ Harry Kane, Nathan Redmond, Benik Afobe and England’s youth setup 🧠 Developing young footballers and building winning teams ⚽ The modern game vs football in the 80s and 90s 😂 Dressing room stories and life in football Whether you’re a Blues fan, football supporter or simply love hearing incredible stories from the game, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 👍 If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe and let us know your favourite story in the comments. #BCFC #NoelBlake #MadeInBrum

Commonwealth Games gold medallist Don Broadhurst joins us for an inspiring, emotional and honest conversation about boxing, family and finding purpose beyond the ring. From growing up in Birmingham to standing on top of the Commonwealth podium, Don reflects on the sacrifices, discipline and dedication it took to become one of England’s finest amateur boxers. But this episode goes far beyond medals. Don opens up about the heartbreak of losing his mum, the incredible support of his family throughout his journey, fatherhood, and why his greatest achievement today is helping young people across the Midlands discover confidence, discipline and opportunity through boxing. It’s a conversation about resilience, community, family values and the life lessons sport can teach us all. In this episode: 🥇 Winning Commonwealth Games Gold 🥊 Representing England on the world stage ❤️ Coping with the loss of his mum 👨‍👩‍👧 The importance of family 🥊 Using boxing to inspire young people across the Midlands 🏆 The values boxing teaches beyond winning 💙 Birmingham, community and giving back 🎙️ Life after elite sport Whether you’re a boxing fan, sports lover or simply enjoy hearing remarkable life stories, this is an episode packed with inspiration and perspective. If you enjoy the episode, please like, subscribe and let us know your favourite moment in the comments. Powered by  ⁨@brumlife⁩ #DonBroadhurst #Boxing #MadeInBrum

Former Birmingham City and Wales international David Cotterill joins us for one of the most honest and entertaining conversations we’ve had on Made in Brum. From breaking through as a teenager and working under Brendan Rodgers, to his years at Birmingham City, Wales, Gareth Bale, Gary Rowett, Harry Redknapp and the realities of life in professional football, nothing is off limits. David speaks openly about alcohol addiction, recovery, mental health, dressing room culture, football politics and why he still believes Birmingham City were capable of achieving promotion under Gary Rowett. We also dive into David’s fascination with conspiracy theories, questioning narratives, independent thinking and some of the topics that have sparked plenty of debate both inside and outside football. This is a raw, funny and thought-provoking conversation with a player who has experienced the highs and lows of the game and isn’t afraid to speak his mind. In this episode: ⚽ Birmingham City and the Gary Rowett era ⚽ Harry Redknapp and life at Blues ⚽ Brendan Rodgers and Swansea City ⚽ Playing alongside Gareth Bale for Wales ⚽ Alcohol addiction and recovery ⚽ Mental health in football ⚽ Football dressing room culture ⚽ Conspiracy theories and independent thinking ⚽ The reality of professional football ⚽ Life after football Whether you’re a Blues fan, football supporter or simply enjoy honest conversations that go beyond the pitch, this is one you won’t want to miss. 🎙️ Subscribe for more Made in Brum podcasts filmed at St Andrew’s. #BCFC #DavidCotterill #MadeInBrum #FootballPodcast

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions around domestic abuse, emotional abuse, mental health, depression, body dysmorphia and trauma. Viewer discretion is advised. In one of the most powerful and honest conversations we’ve had on Made In Brum, professional boxer Ebonie Cotton opens up about the experiences that shaped her life both inside and outside the ring. From dancing and modelling at a young age to moving to Australia, Ebonie shares the highs and lows of her journey, including periods of depression, body dysmorphia, emotionally and physically abusive relationships, self-doubt and the challenges of rebuilding her confidence. She also discusses how boxing became the catalyst for change, helping her rediscover self-worth, purpose and belief in herself. In this episode we discuss: 🥊 Becoming a professional boxer 🌏 Moving to Australia 💔 Surviving emotionally and physically abusive relationships 🧠 Depression and mental health struggles 📉 Body dysmorphia and self-image 💃 Dancing and modelling in her younger years 🔥 Building confidence through combat sports 🥊 Fighting Molly McCann and Ebanie Bridges 📱 Social media, OnlyFans and public perception 💪 Learning to be proud of her journey This is a raw, emotional and inspiring conversation about resilience, self-belief and finding strength through adversity. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to trusted friends, family or professional support services. 🎙️ Available now on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. #EbonieCotton #Boxing #MentalHealth #MadeInBrum

Former Birmingham City captain Darren Purse joins Made In Brum for a brilliant, honest and often hilarious conversation about a football career that took him from the lower leagues to some of the biggest moments in Blues history. From his early days learning the game, to captaining Birmingham City, playing at Wembley, scoring against Liverpool and leading teams through promotion battles, Pursey reflects on the highs, lows and realities of life as a professional footballer. In this episode: ⚽ Becoming Birmingham City captain ⚽ The road to the Worthington Cup Final ⚽ Beating Tottenham and Newcastle in the cup run ⚽ Trevor Francis and life under legendary managers ⚽ The famous penalty against Liverpool ⚽ Wembley memories ⚽ Martin Grainger, Dele Adebola and Blues dressing rooms ⚽ Cardiff City and promotion battles ⚽ Leadership, captaincy and dressing room culture ⚽ Football’s biggest characters and toughest opponents ⚽ Life after football and coaching Packed with football nostalgia, dressing room stories, leadership lessons and plenty of laughs, this is a must-watch for Blues fans and football fans alike. 🎙️ Full episode available now on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. 🔗 Follow Made In Brum for more conversations with footballers, fighters, musicians and Birmingham personalities.

Former Wolves and Sunderland defender Jody Craddock joins Made In Brum for an unforgettable conversation covering football, family, resilience and life beyond the game. Over a career spanning more than 700 appearances, Jody played at the highest level with Sunderland and Wolves, facing some of the greatest players of his generation while building a reputation as one of football’s most reliable defenders. In this episode, Jody discusses: ⚽ Life at Wolves and Sunderland ⚽ Playing against Eric Cantona, Dennis Bergkamp, Alan Shearer, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Robin van Persie ⚽ The legendary Niall Quinn & Kevin Phillips partnership ⚽ Premier League dressing rooms and football culture ⚽ The road to becoming a Wolves legend ⚽ Family tragedy and personal resilience ⚽ Losing his son Jake ⚽ Supporting his son Toby through leukemia ⚽ How art became an outlet away from football ⚽ Life after retirement This is a powerful, honest and inspiring conversation packed with football stories, emotion and perspective from one of the game’s most respected professionals. 🎙️ Available on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🔗 Follow Made In Brum for more conversations with footballers, musicians, fighters, entrepreneurs and Birmingham personalities.

Former Birmingham City and West Brom defender Paul Robinson joins Made in Brum for a brilliant honest conversation about football, dressing rooms and life after the game. ⚽ Robbo opens up on: 🔥 The Great Escape with West Brom 🔥 His iconic goal against Aston Villa 🔥 Birmingham City memories 🔥 Watford and early career lessons 🔥 The “phantom injury” that ruined a transfer 🔥 Dressing room characters & teammates 🔥 Brian Robson and top managers 🔥 Transitioning into coaching 🔥 Football mentality and surviving pressure A proper football conversation packed with stories, laughs and insight from one of the game’s real characters. 🎙️ Full episode available now on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts. 📲 Follow Made in Brum for more football stories, podcasts and exclusive clips. #PaulRobinson #BCFC #WBA #GreatEscape #BirminghamCity #WestBrom #Championship #PremierLeague #FootballPodcast #WatfordFC #MadeInBrum #EFL #FootballStories #Albion #COYB

Joe Hunt joins the Made In Brum podcast for a brilliant conversation about his journey from Birmingham’s underground club scene to becoming one of the UK’s most respected DJs and producers 🎧🔥 Joe talks about: * starting out DJing in Birmingham clubs and raves * building his sound through UK garage & bassline * creating floor fillers that work worldwide * life on the road touring internationally * the story behind “Up To No Good” * advice for upcoming DJs and producers * consistency, graft and surviving the music industry From local venues in the Midlands to festival stages across the world, this is a proper insight into the mindset and work ethic behind a long-lasting DJ career. Joe Hunt is a Birmingham/Walsall DJ & producer, co-founder of Jump Records, and saw major commercial success with tracks including “Up To No Good”, receiving support across BBC Radio 1, Capital Dance and international DJs worldwide. 🎙️ Available now on: Spotify YouTube Apple Podcasts Follow Made In Brum for more honest conversations with footballers, musicians, creators and Birmingham personalities. #JoeHunt #UKGarage #Bassline #DJPodcast #MadeInBrum #BrumLife #DanceMusic #DJLife #Podcast #Birmingham #UKMusic #HouseMusic #GarageMusic