David Hodgson is one of the most iconic figures in Darlington FC's modern history, managing the Quakers across three separate spells and taking charge of over 400 matches.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Hodgy joins Adam Cattell and David Steel to reflect on an unforgettable career that saw him lead Darlington to a Wembley final, battle some colourful owners, experience the highs and lows of football management, and build teams that supporters still talk about today.

Among the topics discussed:

⚫ How he first arrived at Darlington

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Darlington FC Chief Executive David Johnston joins the Darlo Till I Die podcast for an in-depth discussion on the present and future of the football club.

Approaching ten years in the role, David reflects on the club's progress, the disappointment of last season's play-off near miss, and the work continuing behind the scenes to build a sustainable future for Darlington FC.

Among the topics discussed are:

⚽ David's journey as CEO after nearly a decade at the club

⚽ Amazon's new partnership with Darlington FC and what it means for the club

⚽ Reflections on the 2025/26 season and missing out on the play-offs

⚽ Summer recruitment and the Jack Maskell transfer to Barnet

⚽ Progress towards a new stadium and the challenges ahead

⚽ Improving the Blackwell Meadows pitch

⚽ The long-term vision for Darlington FC

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On the April edition of Darlo Till I Die, Craig Stoddart and Will Hatfield join the panel as we look back on a damaging home defeat to Marine that threatens to derail Darlington’s play-off hopes.

We also discuss the much-maligned playing surface at Blackwell Meadows, reflect on the new contracts for Steve Watson and Terry Mitchell, and pick our Player and Goal of the Season.

Plus, in the quiz, Will somehow struggles to recall a team that he picked himself…!

Enjoy

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On this month’s pod, Adam is joined by John Vickerman and Wayne Raper as we reflect on Darlo’s 2–0 victory over Bedford Town and the continued playoff charge.

We wax lyrical about the red-hot Main and Maskell strike partnership, discuss what promotion to the National League might look like, and even dive into Darlo’s unexpected mention in Coronation Street.

Plus, there’s the return of the quiz...this time it’s Played for Both Clubs.

Enjoy.

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Former Quakers keeper Sam Russell joins the pod. Sam spent three separate spells with Darlo and was of course between the sticks that famous day at Wembley in 2011. We chat about his career, from his days starting out at Boro and training with Mark Schwarzer all the way through to an emotional farewell at Barrow. Sammy also chooses his Ultimate Darlo 5 a side team, although he's got one eye on the bar afterwards! 

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Darlo are up and running for 2026 after a 3–1 win against Alfreton at Blackwell Meadows. Adam is joined by Northern Echo journalist Craig Stoddart and Darlington midfielder Will Hatfield, with Will providing an update on his ACL recovery two months on from his operation.

We also salute former loanee Charlie Lennon following his move to Barnsley, and, as ever, there’s the customary quiz to round things off. #DTID 

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Darlington were brought back down to earth with a heavy 5–1 defeat away at Oxford City, but all is not lost for the Quakers, who remain firmly in the playoff picture in the National League North.

On the December edition of Darlo Till I Die, Adam is joined by Andrew Hodgson and Paul Compton to reflect on a bruising afternoon at Oxford City and assess Darlington’s defensive frailties.  The episode also features an interview with Darlington defender Scott Barrow, who gives his perspective on recent results and the challenges facing the side.

With a rare free weekend to reflect, the panel considers what went wrong, what can be fixed, and whether Darlo can steady the ship and mount a serious playoff push in 2026.

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I’m joined by Craig Stoddart and Michael Price as we look back on a remarkable turnaround in form from Darlo, who made it four league wins on the bounce with a late winner against The Pride to surge into the play-off places. There’s also a quiz...and Stod has revenge on his mind this time around! 

Plus, Will Hatfield joins us just two days after his ACL surgery to discuss not only the injury but also his time with the Quakers. A brilliant insight from a proper fans favourite.

#DTID 

Darlo finally have lift-off at Blackwell Meadows, recording a 2–0 home win over Southport, and this week I’m joined by fellow Darlo fans Dan and Luke to break it all down. We assess the impact of the new loan trio, including debut goalscorer Max Howells, and look at what this result might mean for the weeks ahead.

There’s also an honest chat about the perceived pressure on Steve and Terry, and a wider reflection on the season so far...from performances to direction, confidence to concerns. And, as always, we wrap things up with the customary end-of-pod quiz. #DTID

A bonus episode from the archives: In 2023, Michael Cansfield spoke with Ron Harbertson, who sadly passed away last month at the age of 95. Ron played a key role in one of Darlington’s greatest FA Cup runs during the 1957–58 season, scoring in every tie from the first to the fourth round,  including a goal in the famous 4–1 victory over First Division Chelsea in the fourth round.

As Darlington get their FA Cup campaign underway again this weekend, it’s a perfect time to hear Ron’s memories of that historic run.