Marvin Sordell

This weeks episode is with former Premier League footballer turned producer, writer, public speaker, entrepreneur and CALM ambassador, MARVIN SORDELL. Marvin’s father left when he was 5 years old. Other than knowing that he is a visual replica of his father, he knows little else, and other than an unexpected phone call at the age of 19, he has had no contact with him. At the age of 13 Marvin was scouted by Chelsea, and was quickly thrusted into the world of professional football. However, being a footballer didn’t make being fatherless any easier, and Marvin witnessed a grim and backward side of the sport whilst seeing the difference the coaches would treat his teammates fathers, compared to his mother. Marvin was told more than once that he should look to another profession by those who were meant to support him - teachers and coaches. This only pushed him to work harder, proving that he was never going to live down to their expectations of him. Marvin’s father was, of course, another adult not there to support him, believe in him, or help push him to his greatest potential in a sport so focused on fathers and sons. At the age of 28, Marvin decided to retire. He’d had enough of the darker side of the sport. It’s in-house bullying, racism and business objectives which can make a player feel sub-human. So, Marvin turned to his more creative side and co-founded a thriving video production company, 180 Productions, amongst many other exciting ventures, making a focus of his to speak openly on mental health - having gone through his own experience of depression during the latter years of his football career. When Marvin himself became a father, he had to face a wound he hadn’t realised ran so deep. Marvin was the most incredible, honest and open guest, and I am so excited for you to hear his beautiful episode. * If you like what you hear, it would be so appreciated if you could rate, review and subscribe as we love hearing your thoughts and feedback, and it helps get the podcast to reach more ears. * Created | Hosted | Produced by Angharad George-Carey Mastered and Compressed | by Worgie Productions Music | by Julietta * Social Media: Angharad George-Carey @angharadgeorgecarey Daddy Issues Podcast @thedaddyissuespodcast Marvin Sordell @marvinsordell * If you'd like to seek guidance and support for any issues raised in the episodes there are three websites we would recommend depending on your individual needs: www.juliasamuel.co.uk JULIA SAMUEL MBE www.blackmindsmatteruk.com BLACK MINDS MATTER www.griefuntangled.com GREIF UNTANGLED www.thecalmzone.net CALM * We love hearing from you! To contact us, email thedaddyissuespod@gmail.com