show episodes
 
Welcome to the Catflap Chats podcast. My name is Mikey, but lots call me Catflap, Flap, or Flapper, and I'm fortunate enough to call some pretty interesting people my mates - Professional sports, Rugby, Boxing, MMA, Football, Actors, Singers, and Business, in Wales and beyond. I'm going to have a beer with a different mate each week, and delve in to their professional and personal lives. Expect some distinctly average chat, funny stories, and insights in behind the scenes. Basically, I am ab ...
  continue reading
 
Loading …
show series
 
Mike has probably forgotten more about 7s than I have ever known. Currently preparing for the Olympics 7's with the USA having been there for years, previously working with Kenya, England and enjoying a playing career in his own right. Good to chat about the state of the game, 7's in general, and how the game will grow in the USA. Top career, bette…
  continue reading
 
What a whirlwind catch up with World Cup Winner, Rocky Clark. Great to chat about all manor of things Rugby, but also ADHD, working in the media, coaching, and life in general. She's been through her ups and downs, but continues to have a positive outlook and strive to be the best version of her self she can be. Being authentic is her super power f…
  continue reading
 
I sat down with 2 of 5 girls who found each other through being r*ped by the same man. They came together to put him behind bars, but the story is mental and horrific in equal measures. From the act's themselves, to dealing with the police, judicial system, and going public. I can't thank the girls enough for their bravery and willingness to chat a…
  continue reading
 
Great to catch up with Marc and chat all things health, fitness, and playing in the Premier League. He's making a name for himself on social as 'The Foodie Footballer', which he started whilst still playing professional football. Over 450 professional games, he's only one of a handful of players who have score in all of England's top 5 divisions!…
  continue reading
 
What a story, and the best is yet to come. Kickboxing, Football, Boxing. Olympics Gold, World Titles and full senior caps. Despite a tough start to life, Lauren has gone on to be an unbelievable multi disciplined athlete. Currently 6 & 0 as a pro boxer after winning Gold at Tokyo2020, she has her sights set on the world belts this year. I loved thi…
  continue reading
 
This was an emotional rollercoaster. We spoke about everything, from growing up swimming, to winning Olympic Gold. Resilience in spades. From fitting in (or not) at school, to years of online hate and trolls due to her looks. Miscarriage and dealing with loss, to being the best version of herself she can be. What a great human being, who is continu…
  continue reading
 
Interesting fella is Dave! Philosophical in his outlook and speaks a lot of sense. Has thrown men about on the pitch for years, playing for Bristol, Gloucester, Bath, Toulon and England. A great career on it, genuine highs and lows both on and off the field, and carving a new direction off it with Farleigh Performance and Apero (Check that out thea…
  continue reading
 
'The Referee's a....' really sound bloke! What a top guy. We sat down on the eve of the 6 Nations, 48 hours before he reffed Wales vs Scotland in Cardiff. I Could have chatted for hours. So open about the game from his pov, with real insights as to what referee's go through week to week. Immense highs and lows. Social Media abuse. Respect from the …
  continue reading
 
What a player. What a person. 84 England Caps, and in her final season as a professional rugby player, still owning the 12 shirt at Harlequins - But, it's equally as impressive the career and opportunities Rachael is forging off the field too. Making an impact in genuinely growing the game, helping the next generation of girls, and spilling all on …
  continue reading
 
Loved this catch up, what a great guy Simon is. He's managed Blackpool twice, Leeds United, Huddersfield Town, Preston NE, Sunderland, Bradford, Fleetwood Town and just come back from a few years in India. Over 500 games as a professional player. He has forgotten more then I will ever know about being a quality Football Manager. He gives insight in…
  continue reading
 
Fortunate enough to grab a few hours with a genuine football legend, who isn't afraid to speak his mind. We cover everything from footy, goalkeepers, playing the modern way, so society, social media and a bit of politics 🤣 What a top bloke, I could have sat with him for hours and chatted about everything football nostalgia and how the game is playe…
  continue reading
 
Great chat with Tom who had a class career on the pitch, and he's forging a new career off it too. We could have sat for hours putting the world to rights around a load of subjects. It was great to get an understanding on Tom's journey, his mindset, and how he approaches life's challenges. Plenty of highs but also some serious lows too which he was…
  continue reading
 
Fortunate to catch Graham leading into the xmas period where Newport County play Wrexham and Forest Green Rovers. I absolutely loved him, and what they're trying to do at Newport, built from graft, grit and resilience. I didn't know Graham from before, but remember him as an ever present for Plymouth Argyle as I was growing up. Top player, evolving…
  continue reading
 
I first saw Josh on TikTok, talking about his business journey with Pask Removals, and how it was born from moving clubs himself. West Ham, Coventry, Newport County and now with TNS. Josh is combining pro footy and a business, with a family too. I loved his outlook and the reality of not chasing the football leagues in order for his business and fa…
  continue reading
 
This one felt personal having known Calvin since he was a teenager. Having brain cancer at 30, an operation to remove 95% of it, and then needing to raise over £200,000 for a new treatment in the next year for the remaining 5%. It has been a whirlwind for him and it really does put things in to perspective in life. Calvin is genuinely inspirational…
  continue reading
 
Newport County, Derby County, Luton Town and more. Open heart surgery at 16 and 27 years old. Told you only have a certain amount of time to live. Told you won't make it in professional football. Playing over 200 pro games. This is part one of a class conversation with Mark O'Brien, 3 years after retirement, and 13 years after making his debut for …
  continue reading
 
Loved this, what a great guy. He's had some serious highs and frustrating lows during his career so far, but I love his outlook on life and his approach to Rugby. I have no doubt, that at 28 years old, Joey still has his best years ahead of him in Red and in Green. He's a Rolls Royce of a player on his day, and hopefully he can get a run of games w…
  continue reading
 
Great catch up with Rob at Looseheadz. They are doing some unbelievable work in Rugby, and with Mental Health. Their aim is to put a mental health lead in every rugby club in the world. They are approaching 1,000 clubs, but there's over 16,000 in the world! Remember, there is good mental health, and then poor mental health, and we are all somewhere…
  continue reading
 
Loved this. A take on the Men's RWC from a content creators pov. Amy works for Canterbury and also creates for other brands too, bringing a fresh voice and energy to both the Men's and Women's game. We caught up ahead of the RWC 1/4's, got some predictions down, but also chatted about Amy's journey into the rugby world, and what it's really like to…
  continue reading
 
What a story - I love Jon's vulnerability and honesty. Wrong choices as a kid, early adulthood behind bars, to working for one of the most famous Celebrity chefs, and then going it alone. Jon has just released a book, and his story should be inspiring for anyone that has made wrong choices before. What a top bloke, and what a journey!…
  continue reading
 
Great catch up with Joe, who's transitioning well into finance and business, after a career in Rugby. A Wasps legend, and stints with Gloucester, Bath, Saracens and Sale Sharks. Proud of his England cap, but accepts he was in an era of Ben Youngs and Danny Care. Loved Rugby, but also didn't love parts of it. His honesty is admirable and it's great …
  continue reading
 
Loved catching up with Sam. Such a good guy and he's genuinely happy about his move out to France. Recently married, a Gin business that's growing and the freedom to enjoy his Rugby again. Frustrating at times for him playing in Wales, such is the depth of talent at 10. Good on him, and best of luck for the future.…
  continue reading
 
What a story. Quite possibly the most mental background of anyone I have met. From straight A student and avid Skateboarder and Basketball player, to selling drugs on the streets, starring in Porn films, and robbing a bank at gunpoint, followed by a high speed chase in California. Big Herc is now a successful business owner and started his YouTube …
  continue reading
 
What a great guy Jarvo is, and he's more than just a footballer. Over 400+ professional appearances, an England cap at a time when they had an abundance of talent, and played with and against some of the best players to grace the Premier League. Promotions. Relegations. Injuries. Dark days and unreal highs. He keeps himself busy now, and looks back…
  continue reading
 
A class conversation about professional football, away from the riches of the Premier League. Matt is an Exeter legend, having spent the majority of his career there. His move to Colchester United has seen him steo out of his comfort zone, and he's working hard to make a positive impact. I get the feeling he's different to most professional footbal…
  continue reading
 
Great to catch up with Sisilia after a whirlwind 18 months or so for her. Winning the league with Gloucester-Hartpury, getting her first Welsh Cap, playing in a Women's World Cup, and being nominated for Player of the Tourn in the 2023 Women's 6 nations. All that, and she's only 20! Quiet on camera, but she makes up for that on the pitch, and I'm l…
  continue reading
 
Bit of a different one this week - Catching up with Dan who owns Cardiff Classic Shirts - We spoke about everything Kit and Collector Culture, vintage classics and teams that never get it right. I absolutely love collecting shirts and it seems to be a growing trend atm, with Football and Fashion seemingly interacting more too. An exciting space as …
  continue reading
 
Natalie's energy is infectious, and we covered a vast array of topics. Menopause, women's safety when running, running ultra's, being a mum, Social Media and writing a book. She lives a pretty busy life but finds time to have that 80/20 balance so that Instead of lean and cheat meals, it's more of a lifestyle and balance.…
  continue reading
 
From freak accident, broken leg and in to a wheelchair, to captaining your country at the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup. A wild ride for Tom who's still only 24, yet he's won it all already. It sounds like a humbling sport, and much harder than people may give it credit for! www.catflapchats.comBy Mikey Rowe
  continue reading
 
A heavy chat with the Dragons RFC winger about some really important topics, both on and off the Rugby pitch. Ashton is a clever bloke, articulate in his words, and he's using his platform to speak up on subjects that make people feel uncomfortable, but need talking about. On the field he's still after that Welsh cap, and is fighting fit going in t…
  continue reading
 
I learned so much about heptathlon today, and where the future of the sport lies. It's amazing to hear about the lack of funding, having to work 4 part time roles, and try to become a doctor, as well as dreaming of the Commonwealth Games 2026, and the next Olympics! We also chat about being vegan, dating, and Instagram DM's in 2023.…
  continue reading
 
A great chat with a top bloke. Nick is carving out an exceptional career in Education since hanging up his boots, developing the next wave of kids both on and off the field. 43 caps for Scotland, & played in some great club games, and yet it was fascinating to hear that he doesn't always look back on his career with the fondest of memories or a foc…
  continue reading
 
I love Chris, such a good bloke, and he's been around a long time at Glamorgan too, with this season arguably up there with his best. We chatted about leaving South Africa, grafting for a spot at Glamorgan, and playing the different formats, including franchise cricket. Plenty of highs and some lows too, we are both in agreement from different side…
  continue reading
 
Loved this chat. Gwen has a drive and determination to succeed, and absolutely believes in her own abilities. Her outlook is class, and it's proving a good navigation for her - 29 cap's for Wales Women, and she'd have had more if it wasn't for some pretty bad injuries. She's on the rehab train now, after almost back to back breaks/tears, and yet it…
  continue reading
 
Loved having Steff over. Fresh off his first season at the Dragons, it was interesting to hear his story so far. Plenty of ups and downs, and that's just the last few years since c*vid. A shift at the Scarlets, and now enjoying the Dragons and what they're creating! Wouldn't be surprised to see him play abroad at some point too!…
  continue reading
 
Fresh off his first 10:31 challenge this morning, Harri came over after for a chat. It's only been 10 or so days since he announced he would be stepping back from rugby to protect his mental health, and the utcome has been so positive for him. There are themes of suicide, depression, mental health and anxiety throughout this Podcast. Please reach o…
  continue reading
 
Baz is a legend - Great catching up with someone who's done it all in the club game. 4 Prem titles, 3 European cups, and a whole lot of songs in the back catalogue #Remiiiiiix Now plying his trade and going well in ProD2 with Agen, he's loving his rugby, and life. Fingers crossed they continue to go well, and see them go up to the Top14! Search 'Ca…
  continue reading
 
Round two with the great and powerful JJB. We tried to chat Rugby League, but like the first pod we did, the convo went off on a tangent again, albeit relevant in today's society. Rugby League or not, he's just a bloody good bloke! Thanks always FourFive UK and Tiny Rebel BreweryBy Mikey Rowe
  continue reading
 
Having met Casey briefly over a beer approx. 10 years ago, it was great to catch up again, post Rugby. A quality career in Super Rugby, playing for the All Blacks, and then gracing Cardiff, Munster and Paris with Racing 92. Plenty of wins, a few lows, and carving a career now in Real Estate too. Thanks always Tiny Rebel Brewery and FourFive UK.…
  continue reading
 
One of Rugby's biggest men, but also one of the nicest. Great to catch up with Skelt's after LA Rochelle's recent success. Pretty much everywhere he goes, cups follow! Interesting to hear him talk about growing up in NZ and Australia, and his journey across the northern hemisphere too. I can see another successful year for La Rochelle, and Australi…
  continue reading
 
What a guy, and what a career. Sean has won it all on the pitch, and done it all off the pitch. If you know Rugby League, you'll know Longy. Since retiring he's been earning his trade as a No2, but now has the Head Coach job at Featherstone. St Helens Legend. GB and England. The wildest of highs and some serious lows. Thanks always Tiny Rebel Brewe…
  continue reading
 
Fresh off Scotland winning another game vs England Rugby, I caught up with Sean who was back at the team hotel. Class win for them, and great to chat about all things Scotland, Lions, & the Baa Baa's. On the club stage he has won it all with Saracens, London Irish, Glasgow and in NZ with Canterbury and the Crusaders. There isn't much he hasn't done…
  continue reading
 
It's not everyday you sit down with one of the best players to grace the Premier League. Whilst never properly getting his opportunities for England, he was the first midfielder to enter the Premier League 100 Club, and was an anomaly in being a 1 club man at Southampton. We also chatted about some of todays issues in society, which Matt is all too…
  continue reading
 
I cannot wait to do a part two with JJB! What a bloke. We spoke a lot about what he is up to since hanging up the boots. His purpose post playing. His vision, values and morals. They type of blokes he's built a career around, and what they have taught him over the years. I dare you not to be inspired to be a better person after this! Part 2 will be…
  continue reading
 
Class chat and followed a different format - Jason only retired in the summer and is now playing amateur rugby, but he had so many questions come up on our Instagram and twitter, we thought we would use those as the basis to form our convo. Insightful, no holds barred, both scathing and funny at times - Here's a lad that's seen it all in Welsh Club…
  continue reading
 
What a mental chat with Dave. A career in the military. Over 10 tours in hostile environments, being shot at and blown up. Paratrooper and Special Forces. PTSD and Personality Disorder. Multiple suicide attempts. And now a new career, a family, and a life left behind. It never fails to amaze me what people go through and come out the other side of.…
  continue reading
 
Loved this Ep - What a grounded and top bloke Will is. He didn't take the normal route in to football, instead grafting, going to Uni, working, and playing in the Welsh Prem. Then came that Wales vs England game. Now he's creating waves over at Newport County, and things look good for Will. Keep an eye on this lad if you love footy! Thanks always W…
  continue reading
 
One of my heroes watching the 7s circuit over the years, with that huge beard and bald head - I was like DJ Forbes after 40 kebabs! Fresh from the Hong Kong 7s, a great chat with someone who's genuinely won it all in their field, played with and against some of the greats, became an Olympian, and has transitioned over to the other side of sport. Th…
  continue reading
 
What a great guy Harry is. A mainstay of the Ireland 7s team, recently getting to the Olympics, and doing well on both the World 7s Series, and the recent 7s RWC. In his spare time, his work with a camera and on Safari in Kenya is also unreal too. One of rugby's nomads, and top blokes too. Looking forward to seeing how Ireland do in the 7s series t…
  continue reading
 
Loading …

Quick Reference Guide