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Show Notes - The Jason Brisbane Episode

Episode Summary: In this episode, Nick Rockell and Mark Moss sit down with Jason Brisbane, a former London Blitz linebacker who fought his way into the NFL, played internationally, and transitioned into a career in sports leadership.

Jason shares his journey from a childhood in West London to discovering American Football by chance, joining the Blitz, and learning the value of commitment, preparation, and resilience. His story is one of setbacks, perseverance, and adapting to new opportunities, eventually leading him to a leadership role in British Wheelchair Rugby.

This episode is packed with insights into what it takes to succeed in sports and life, and why sometimes the toughest challenges teach the most valuable lessons.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

·     Growing Up in Shepherd’s Bush: Raised by his dad and older brother, Jason learned early on to be independent

·     Early Sports & Finding Football: Experimenting with BMX, rollerblading, and how a KFC promotion led to his first American football experience

·     Joining the London Blitz: Why football completely changed Jason’s life and gave him the structure he needed

·     Making the National Team: Overcoming self-doubt, earning a spot on Team GB, and competing in the 2004 European Championship

·     NFL Europe Tryouts & Brutal Setbacks: Getting rejected, coming back stronger, and finally breaking through

·     NFL Europe & the San Diego Chargers: Making it to training camp and experiencing the next level of football

·     Playing in Finland & Spain: Adjusting to different cultures and leagues, and finding joy in coaching

·     Returning to the Blitz & Wrapping Up His Playing Career

·     Transitioning to Sports Leadership: Working with NFL UK, developing youth programs, and why giving kids opportunities is life-changing

·     Leading British Wheelchair Rugby: How Jason’s leadership skills in football helped him become CEO of a national sports organization

Final Thoughts: Jason Brisbane’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and taking opportunities that come your way. From being overlooked in school sports to battling through NFL Europe tryouts and finally leading a national sports program, his story proves that success isn’t about raw talent—it’s about grit, preparation, and never giving up.

His transition from player to CEO of British Wheelchair Rugby shows that the lessons learned in football apply far beyond the field. This episode is a must-listen for anyone chasing big goals—whether in sports, business, or life.

"I had to fight for every single opportunity. The key was just to keep going—until the 'no' becomes a 'yes'." – Jason Brisbane

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Show Notes - The Jason Brisbane Episode

Episode Summary: To close out the first season of Jimmy’s & Jo’s we asked each guest to share a story or two from their time in football.

Sometimes funny, sometimes crass, sometimes heartfelt, each story gives our guests the opportunity to unwittingly give a glimpse into the people and situations that touched them the most.

Story Board:

·     Jason Brisbane: Moped and ‘anti-drip’.

·     Neil Bowles: Dehydration, injuries, and farmer strong violence.

·     Rod Bradley: Carlstad and the Massive Kid.

·     Nick Manning: The Champagne Massive and “Have A Fun”.

·     Gareth Dauley: Amsterdam carnage and Scottish bonfires.

·     Mark Moss: More Amsterdam and Copenhagen learnings.

·     Nick Rockell: The London Blitz pivot point.

Final Thoughts: One reason the Amsterdam trip is so memorable and was so messy is that not only was it the team’s first European competitive game but it also fell on the anniversary of the death of much loved teammate Dan “Raiders” Dawson.

The very epitome of work hard-play hard, coaches Rockell and Moss made sure that while they coached players hard they also made sure there was fun to be had that would galvanize the core of a team to be more than the sum of it’s parts.

“Some of the craziest stories that ever happened to me, and after being in some wonderful stories in my lifetime, but the top 10 are always the Blitz” - Gareth Dauley

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Show Notes: The Nick Manning Episode

Episode Overview: In this episode, Nick Rockell and Mark Moss catch up with Nick Manning, a former London Blitz offensive lineman who has built a successful career in communications. Now the Associate Vice President of Communications at the University of Waterloo in Canada, Nick shares his journey from discovering football as a teenager to working high-stakes roles in government and academia. He reflects on leadership, the power of being an outsider, and how the lessons of football have shaped his professional and personal life.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

·      Discovering football in Tring and taking the leap to join a team.

·      Early experiences with the Stags and the unique team culture of British American football.

·      Transitioning to university football and learning to lead in a new environment.

·      Moving into a professional career in communications and working for the UK Ministry of Defence.

·      Handling media relations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and high-pressure government roles.

·      The decision to move to Canada and how sport influenced that life-changing move.

·      Building a career in university communications and the similarities between leadership in sport and business.

·      The impact of football on personal growth, leadership, and problem-solving.

·      Coaching attempts and challenges in North American football.

·      The unique culture of Buffalo Bills tailgating and the role of football in personal identity.

·      Final reflections on lifelong friendships and the role of football in shaping who we become.

Final Thoughts: Nick Manning’s journey is a testament to how sport creates unexpected opportunities and lifelong connections. From learning discipline and teamwork on the field to handling media crises and leading communications teams, football has remained a guiding force. His passion for the game extends beyond playing, shaping his friendships, career choices, and even his love for the Buffalo Bills. His story highlights the importance of embracing challenges, adapting to new environments, and always being willing to take the next step forward.

"One of my superpowers in work has been being an outsider. It’s the same in football—sometimes the best perspective comes from standing just outside the norm." – Nick Manning

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Show Notes: The Neil Bowles Episode

Episode Overview: In this episode, Nick Rockell and Mark Moss sit down with Neil Bowles, a former Chairman, offensive lineman and offensive line coach with the London Blitz, who played a crucial role in the development of the program. Now the Vice President of Air Traffic Management at Adacel, Neil reflects on his journey from Belfast to the UK and UAE, his career in air traffic control, and the leadership lessons he took from American football into his professional life.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

·      Growing up in Belfast during the Troubles and the impact on his early life and sporting experiences.

·      Transitioning from rugby and cricket to American football at university.

·      Learning the game in Ireland and the influence of early coaches.

·      Moving to England, training as an air traffic controller, and searching for a team.

·      Joining the Cheetahs and experiencing team culture in British American football.

·      The decision to join the London Blitz and help build a struggling team into a powerhouse.

·      The challenges and responsibilities of being club Chairman during a pivotal time in the Blitz’s history.

·      How sport prepared him for leadership roles in his professional career.

·      Coaching in Dubai and helping to establish the Emirates American Football League.

·      The parallels between coaching football and managing professional teams.

·      The importance of empowering teams, fostering a strong culture, and leading by example.

·      Reflecting on the evolution of British American football and its future.

Final Thoughts: Neil Bowles’ journey from player to coach, and eventually to a high-level executive, highlights the power of sport in developing leadership, resilience, and teamwork. His experiences illustrate how lessons learned on the field—accountability, adaptability, and building a strong team culture—translate seamlessly into business and life. His story is a testament to the long-lasting impact of the sport beyond the playing field.

"Whether in football or business, the real challenge isn’t just knowing the game—it’s getting people to believe in the vision and push together to make it happen." – Neil Bowles

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Show Notes: The Rod Bradley Episode

Episode Overview: In this episode, Nick Rockell and Mark Moss sit down with Rod Bradley, a former London Blitz wide receiver, TV Gladiator, and co-founder of PlayerLayer & Dreamsport.

Rod shares his journey from a childhood filled with sports, through his time at Loughborough University, to his impactful career in the sports clothing industry. Along the way, he reflects on his experiences in American football, overcoming injuries, and the importance of camaraderie, resilience, and leadership in both sports and business.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

·      Rod's early life and introduction to sports, growing up with supportive family and competitive siblings.

·      The impact of Loughborough University on his athletic career and exposure to top-tier facilities.

·      Transition from rugby and swimming to American football; discovering his true sporting passion.

·      The challenges and lessons from a serious knee injury; losing identity and finding resilience.

·      Moving from linebacker to wide receiver post-injury; how adaptability opened new opportunities.

·      The camaraderie and culture at London Blitz; how accountability and self-regulating team culture built success.

·      The role of tough coaching and accountability in personal growth; Mark Moss’s influence.

·      Coaching youth sports today; balancing discipline, development, and understanding modern athlete mentality.

·      How sport influenced Rod’s entrepreneurial journey, merging creativity and athletics in his career.

·      The evolution of youth sports competitiveness; resilience in today’s kids and adapting coaching methods.

·      Balancing career, fatherhood, and passion for sports; focusing on long-term growth and enjoying the ride.

Final Thoughts: Rod Bradley’s story highlights how sport shapes character, builds leadership, and fosters lifelong friendships. His transition from athlete to entrepreneur serves as a testament to the transferable skills gained through sport. Whether coaching youth athletes, running a business, or being a supportive father, the lessons from his time in American football continue to guide his path.

"Find a passion. If you can lock into something you love—whether it’s sport, music, or anything else—it gives you a constant, something to anchor you. For me, sport shaped my career, my friendships, and how I approach life." – Rod Bradley

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Show Notes: The Gareth Dauley Episode

Episode Overview: In this episode, Nick Rockell and Mark Moss sit down with Gareth Dauley, a former London Blitz running back who scored the game-sealing touchdown in the 2011 European Championship. Now the CEO of the KOE Group, Gareth shares his incredible journey from a tough upbringing in South London to success in business and renewable energy. He reflects on how sport shaped his resilience, leadership, and adaptability, providing lessons that continue to drive his professional life.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

·      Growing up in South London: navigating challenges, avoiding gangs, and finding sport as an outlet.

·      Early love for cricket and an incident that changed his sporting path.

·      College life at Richmond and the transition to university at Southampton.

·      Discovering American football through a chance introduction at university.

·      The first experience playing American football: getting hit and falling in love with the sport.

·      Moving from university football to London Olympians and struggling for game time.

·      Joining the London Blitz and finding his place as a key player in a winning team.

·      The significance of the 2011 European Championship-winning touchdown.

·      Lessons from sport that translated into business success: resilience, adaptability, and leadership.

·      Building a career in energy and starting multiple successful businesses.

·      The importance of mentorship and giving back: supporting young professionals through his charity.

·      Reflections on leadership, building strong teams, and lessons from startup culture.

·      The future: balancing business, family, and his continued love for sport.

Final Thoughts: Gareth Dauley’s journey is a testament to the power of sport in shaping character and creating opportunities beyond the field. His story highlights resilience, adaptability, and the importance of mentorship in both sports and business. Whether leading a team to victory or driving innovation in the renewable energy sector, Gareth continues to apply the lessons he learned on the field to every aspect of his life.

"I trust in my ability—just give me the ball. Whether in sport or business, I back myself to take it forward and make it happen." – Gareth Dauley

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Show Notes – The Mark Moss Episode

Episode Overview: In this debut episode of Jimmys & Joes, hosts Nick Rockell and British American Football Hall of Fame coach Mark Moss dive into Mark’s journey through sports, coaching, and leadership. From his early days in powerlifting and cricket to building a championship-winning football program with the London Blitz, Mark shares hard-earned lessons on discipline, teamwork, and the sacrifices needed to build a winning culture.

Mark also reflects on his Hall of Fame induction and the impact of sport on his life beyond the field.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

·     Introduction: Meet hosts Nick Rockell and Mark Moss, and get the vision for Jimmys & Joes

·     Mark’s Early Life: Growing up in Luton, finding discipline through swimming, and early career experiences

·     Powerlifting & Cricket: Lessons in discipline and competition from different sports

·     Discovering American Football: How a chance encounter led Mark to the game

·     The Coaching Mindset: What drew Mark into coaching and how he learned to build winning teams

·     The Role of Sport in Life: Why sport provided an outlet and a sense of purpose beyond work

·     Building a Legacy with London Blitz: Overcoming setbacks, sticking to principles, and proving the doubters wrong

·     Proudest Achievements: From world titles in powerlifting to championship wins in football

·     Hall of Fame Induction: Reflections on the honor and what it truly means

·     Final Thoughts: The importance of putting in the work, leading by example, and the next chapter of the journey

Final Thoughts: Mark Moss’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to improvement. Whether it was coaching football, lifting weights, or simply leading by example, his approach was always about putting in the work. His journey offers valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and anyone striving for excellence.

"To be a good coach, you have to care. If you don’t know your players, you can’t coach them." – Mark Moss

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Show Notes – The Nick Rockell Episode

Episode Summary: In this episode, Nick Rockell steps out from behind the mic to share his own journey in football, coaching, and life with Mark Moss. From his early days growing up in Luton to discovering American football as a teenager, Nick reflects on the key influences that shaped his path. He discusses the transition from player to coach, the lessons learned from building programs like the London Blitz, and how football has shaped his career in project management.

If you’ve ever wondered why some people just can’t walk away from football, this episode explains exactly why.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

·     Growing up in Luton, school sports, and finding discipline through athletics

·     Early Football Days: The moment American football became his sport of choice

·     Coaching Beginnings: How necessity forced him into coaching at just 17 or 18 years old

·     Lessons from Playing & Coaching: The importance of pattern recognition, problem-solving, and leadership on and off the field

·     Football vs. Work: How the game shaped his career and leadership style in project management

·     Influential Coaches & Mentors: Key figures who shaped his coaching philosophy

·     The Evolution of Football Coaching: The challenge of working with younger coaches and the struggles of coaching culture today

·     British & Canadian Football: Differences in coaching approaches and opportunities in each country

·     Looking to the Future: What life after coaching could look like and new ways to stay involved in football

·     Final Reflections: Why football is more than a game—it’s a lifelong teacher

Final Thought: Nick Rockell’s journey through football is about more than just wins and losses—it’s about leadership, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. From player to coach to mentor, the game has been his constant companion, shaping his approach to work, family, and life.

As he looks ahead, the challenge isn’t just about coaching the next generation—it’s about figuring out what life looks like when the sidelines are no longer an option. But as this episode makes clear, the passion for the game never really fades.

"I’ve tried to walk away from football, but there’s just nothing else that gets my attention, that gets my brain going. It’s what I love to do." – Nick Rockell

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Show Notes – The London Blitz Episode

Episode Summary: In this scene setting episode for the Jimmy’s & Jo’s podcast, Nick Rockell and Mark Moss look back over their years leading the London Blitz, one of the most dominant American Football programs in the UK.

From the early rebuilding of a struggling team to the National Championship years and European glory, they reflect on what made the program special, key moments, the turning points that shaped the team, and how their coaching philosophies evolved through years of competition at the highest levels.

Key Topics & Takeaways:

·     The Early Days (2002-2004): Taking over a struggling team, clearing debt, and building a foundation

·     Creating a Culture: The birth of the “no superstars” mentality and how it shaped the program

·     Breakthrough Moments (2005-2007): Winning key games, learning tough lessons, and proving the doubters wrong

·     First Championship & the Start of a Dynasty (2007-2009): Taking the Blitz to the top of British football

·     The European Challenge (2010-2011): Taking on the best teams in Europe and realizing what it takes to compete at that level

·     The Carlstad Wake-Up Call (2010): The game that forced the team to push themselves even harder

·     The 2011 European Championship & BritBowl: Winning at home and abroad, and what made that year so special

·     Sustaining Success (2012-2014): The battles with the Warriors, the grind of staying on top

·     Final Reflections (2015): The end of an era, the lessons learned, and why the Blitz years still resonate today

Final Thoughts: The London Blitz wasn’t just a successful football team—it was a culture built on discipline, accountability, and relentless improvement. Through struggles, setbacks, and ultimately championships, the team proved that success isn’t about raw talent alone—it’s about hard work, leadership, and a shared vision.

Nick and Mark’s journey with the Blitz is a story of building something from the ground up and leaving a lasting impact. As they look back, it’s clear that the lessons learned on that field extend far beyond football.

"We had a vibe before vibe was a thing."

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