A Level Playing Field returns with Hearts manager Andy Thomson joining the podcast for an in-depth conversation on his first months in charge in Edinburgh.

After making the switch from Rangers this summer, Thomson reflects on stepping into the role following title-winning boss Eva Olid, and the challenge of building on that success while shaping the team in his own image.

He also takes us inside Hearts’ journey into European football, leading the side through Europa Cup qualifiers, and what that experience means for the club and the growth of the women’s game in Scotland.

Drawing on a 19-year playing career, Thomson opens up on how his experiences on the pitch have influenced his management style, his approach to leadership, and what he believes is key to developing players in the modern women’s game.

From adapting to the demands of management in a rapidly evolving landscape, to his ambitions for Hearts this season, it’s an honest and insightful look at one of Scottish football’s newest voices on the touchline.

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On this week’s episode of A Level Playing Field, we’re joined by Joelle Murray as she opens up on stepping into the Hibernian Women manager’s role following Grant Scott’s exit and what it means to lead the club she’s always called home.

From her emotional connection to Hibs, to being recognised with the prestigious One Club Award, Murray reflects on a journey that began at her dad’s side, learning the game from a player who shaped her love of football. That foundation still drives her today, both in how she sees the game and how she wants her team to play.

She speaks candidly about never wanting to leave Hibernian as a player, and how that loyalty now fuels her ambition as a manager. We dive into her coaching identity, what type of manager she believes she is, and the values that matter most in building a successful environment.

There’s also a look ahead to her plans for the future, her vision for the squad, and how she’s navigating the transition from dressing room leader to the dugout.

A story of loyalty, identity and stepping into a new chapter with one club still at the heart of it all.

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In this episode of A Level Playing Field, we sit down with Vivienne MacLaren, the chairperson of Scottish Women’s Football, for an honest and insightful conversation about the game in Scotland.

Vivienne reflects on her personal relationship with football and the journey that led her to one of the most influential roles in the women’s game. She opens up on what the position really entails behind the scenes, from leadership and governance to driving progress across all levels of the sport.

We also delve into the challenges facing the women’s game, including the ongoing concerns around finances, sustainability, and how the sport can continue to grow in a competitive landscape. It’s a candid look at the realities of running the game and what still needs to change.

Alongside the serious topics, Vivienne shares stories from her long-standing friendship with Scottish football icon Rose Reilly, offering a personal glimpse into the people who have shaped the sport’s history.

A thoughtful and revealing episode that explores leadership, legacy, and the future of women’s football in Scotland.

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In this episode of A Level Playing Field, we sit down with Dumbarton owner Mario Lapointe to explore how his vision for the club extends far beyond the men’s game and why the women’s team is central to that future.

Lapointe discusses the motivations behind his investment in Dumbarton and how he believes the club can become a platform for growth in the women’s game. From bringing the women’s side into the main stadium for matches, to creating greater visibility and parity within the club structure, he outlines how infrastructure and intent can drive meaningful change.

We also delve into his background in sport and how that experience shapes his approach to leadership, alongside a candid look at the financial realities of developing a women’s team and why he sees that as an opportunity rather than a barrier.

With a clear vision for progression, sustainability and raising standards, Lapointe shares where he believes Dumbarton’s women’s team can go next and what it will take to get there.

This is a conversation about ambition, investment and the role clubs can play in pushing the women’s game forward.

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Episode 2 of A Level Playing Field sees Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith sit down with former Celtic manager Fran Alonso.

From the heartbreak of a dramatic final day in the SWPL title race to the pride and joy of watching Celtic ultimately become champions, Alonso reflects on the moments that defined his time at the club. He opens up on what it meant to fall in love with Celtic, how that connection grew during his tenure, and why the club still holds such a special place for him.

The conversation also takes us beyond Glasgow, as Alonso discusses his experience coaching in Houston, the lessons learned along the way, and how those have shaped his approach to the game. Looking ahead, he shares his ambitions for the future and he speaks candidly about his dream of one day returning to Celtic.

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Season 2 kicks off with a special episode from inside the SWPL launch as we look ahead to a brand new campaign.

Alison McConnell and Cheryl Smith are back for a bigger and better second season of A Level Playing Field, bringing you closer to the players and the stories shaping the women's game.

We caught up with players from Hearts, Rangers, Hibs, Celtic and Glasgow City to get the inside track on how they’re feeling ahead of the season, the ambitions for their clubs, and the key storylines to watch.

From title hopes to emerging talent and everything in between, this is your essential preview of the SWPL season - straight from the players themselves, before a ball is even kicked.

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On the final whistle of the season, A Level Playing Field signs off with a comprehensive look back at a thrilling Scottish Women’s Premier League campaign.

Cheryl Smith and Alison McConnell dive into the defining moments of the 2025/26 SWPL season.

From the twists in the title race to the standout performers who lit up the league.

With goals flying in across the campaign and records tumbling along the way, they reflect on what made this season one of the most competitive and compelling yet.

The duo break down the key storylines: the battle at the top and the fight for European places.

Plus, Cheryl and Alison assess how the league is developing off the pitch and what it all means heading into next season.

It’s a full-time reflection on a landmark SWPL season and the perfect way to close out the campaign.

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Celtic defender Emma Lawton joins us ahead of the biggest game in the domestic calendar as the Hoops prepare to face Rangers in the Women's Scottish Cup Final at Hampden Park this Sunday.

The Scotland international reflects on Celtic’s journey to the final, including a dramatic semi-final victory that booked their place on the big stage, and discusses the mindset within the squad heading into a high-stakes Old Firm showdown.

Lawton opens up on the challenge of facing a well-organised Rangers side, the importance of big-game mentality, and what it would mean to lift silverware at Hampden. She also shares insight into her own development over the past year and how the group is handling the pressure and excitement of a cup final occasion.

With rivalry, history, and a national trophy on the line, this is one of the standout fixtures in the Scottish women’s game and Emma Lawton takes us inside Celtic’s camp as they get ready for it.

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