Passion And Profession With Ex-Professional Footballer & Businessman Kieran Richardson

Steven is in discussion with Kieran Richardson, ex-professional footballer and businessman at The Curtain Hotel in Shoreditch. They discuss how a career as an elite athlete playing in the premiership can be the foundation for success in business if you have the right attitude and approach to your football career.
This engaging podcast is a fascinating insight into the career of a premiership footballer and successful businessman, listen in to find out about his journey.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
How did you get into football?
I loved football at school, and as part of a youth club also played every day after school
I played above my age because my best friend was older, and his Dad coached the team. I was part of the West Ham youth program and then was scouted. As a result, I left home at 14 to move to Manchester United to train and play for them.
Changing schools was very positive, as the school in Manchester really believed in me and I achieved 10 GCSEs having only been predicted 3 by my previous London school.
I made my debut for Manchester United in a pre-season friendly and went on to win the FA youth cup and the premier league with them.
How did you deal with greatness and how did you remain humble and grounded?
My parents played a massive part in my attitude and approach to be a successful footballer.
Growing up I watched them as they ran their business and it was this background of understanding about hard work and thinking ahead that I used as a professional footballer
Throughout my football career I was always thinking ahead and preparing for life after football. I bought a property each time I signed a new contract ensuring I had assets that would provide me with a passive income.
How did you make the transition from footballer to businessman?
The transition from football was easier for me because I already had lots of other things going on. I collected watches throughout the time I played football, so I had already planted the seeds for a different career.
It's important to do something that you are passionate about and enjoy. To get the best out of yourself as a person its vital that you don’t do something you don’t want to do.
For some people it’s very clear what they are passionate about, for some people it's about looking around and trying things until you find your passion.
What makes me happy is helping people to build their collections and the smile on their faces when I have sold them a watch they really wanted.
How important is fitness for you?
As footballers, we are programmed to do some sort of physical activity. I would recommend finding an activity that is about releasing energy as it will also relieve stress.
When I was at my most fit I completed both football training and had a personal trainer to get me to the next level. You have to do extra to stay at the top of your game and be the best as an athlete in your field.
BEST MOMENTS
‘Manchester was a great time for me’
‘Finally, after all that preparation to be on the pitch’
‘That’s when I realised I had a special talent’
‘Footballers aren’t educated enough’
‘If you don’t enjoy your work you'll never see the best of yourself’
‘My philosophy is - you’ve got to enjoy it’
‘I just focus on the next step in my life’
‘You get what you put in’
‘If you want to be the best, you’ve got to want it more’
‘Somethings are meant for you’
‘Be the best you can be, I always want to improve myself and being close to God makes me happy’
VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://www.woodburyhouseart.com/
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-steven-sulley-study-podcast/id1434828547?mt=2
ABOUT THE HOST
The Steven Sulley Study is my take on success. My view is you should have multiple focuses to be a well-rounded individual. Success shouldn't be just one thing like money, for example, it should also consist of a healthy fit lifestyle and thriving relationships. As a person who has made a success in life and also made huge cock-ups I feel I can offer suggestions and tips on how to become successful or at least start your pursuit. My 'Study' has taken resources from reading and education plus being around, my perception, of successful people and I, know a lot of successful people from all walks of life. My 'Study' coming from my experiences in business, investing, sales (my core background), training, boxing and education has enabled me to become well rounded and successful.
CONTACT METHOD
http://www.instagram.com/sulley.steven
ABOUT THE GUEST
Kieran Edward Richardson (born 21 October 1984) is an English professional footballer who is currently a free agent. He plays as a winger but has proven to be versatile, having also played as a left back and a central midfielder.
Richardson began his career as a trainee at West Ham United, going on to have extended spells at Manchester United, Sunderland, Fulham, Aston Villa and Cardiff City. He has been capped eight times for England, scoring twice.
Now retired from professional football. Kieran now follows his passion for selling and collecting specific high-end watches. Ex-footballer turned businessman and entrepreneur.
CONTACT METHOD
Broadwalk Watches Ltd
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