Eddie Kadi: The Football Icon

Summary

Podcast Summary: Sort Your Life Out Unpacked

Episode: Eddie Kadi – The Football Icon

Host: Dilly Carter (BBC Sounds)
Guest: Eddie Kadi, comedian, presenter, proud dad, and Congolese-British icon
Date: April 28, 2026

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Overview

This episode of "Sort Your Life Out Unpacked" features celebrated comedian and entertainer Eddie Kadi. Host and organization expert Dilly Carter talks with Eddie as they delve into three personally significant items from his home, using each as a springboard for stories about family, heritage, career, and what truly matters. The episode blends laughter, heartfelt reflection, and practical guidance on how to cherish, organize, and perhaps let go of the physical objects that shape our lives.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Power of Human Connection—Lessons from the Jungle ([01:02]–[02:33])

• Eddie discusses his experience as a contestant on a jungle reality show (implied to be "I'm a Celebrity...").
• He describes being stripped of all comforts—phone, friends, music, home items—and how this led to a deeper appreciation of present-moment connections.
• Insight: Forced minimalism strengthens bonds and reveals the importance of direct interaction.
• Quote:

  "Everything that you’re used to, you have to find a new way. And finding a new way, we’re just finding a new you." – Eddie ([01:08])

2. Eddie's Home Truths: Comfort Above All ([02:44]–[05:54])

• Eddie describes his home as a sanctuary of comfort, with a sofa specifically bought for sleeping, a beloved fluffy rose throw blanket, and cashew nuts always at hand.
• He banters about protecting his living room, jokingly saying unannounced guests—including Dilly—would be relegated to a less comfortable chair.
• Insight: Home is about having spaces that serve your needs and provide a sense of independence and contentment.
• Notable Exchange:

  "If you turn up unannounced, you’re not coming in, let’s just be very clear, Dilly... I’m treating you like your TV license man." – Eddie ([03:35])

3. Space Audit & Gratitude ([04:51]–[05:56])

• Dilly introduces her "space audit" concept: list what you like, dislike, and would change in your home.
• Eddie appreciates this and discusses learning to "live with less" and declutter.
• Quote:

  "I’m learning, actually, to just declutter... living with less." – Eddie ([05:46])

4. Unboxing Item 1: The Church Trophy – Roots and Recognition ([06:18]–[09:58])

• Item: A gold trophy from Eprata Church Community Mission Conference, Bolton.
• Story:
  • Given to Eddie after sharing his career and the role of faith at his uncle's church post a family bereavement.
  • Represents his spiritual spine, faith, family ties, and growing community responsibility.
• Quote:

  "That's my mini World Cup... it really summarizes where my spine lies, you know, in everything I do." – Eddie ([06:43])

• Reflects on growing pride in being Congolese in the UK, his father’s initial skepticism of a comedy career, and eventual pride.
• Quote:

  "My dad’s text me when I left the jungle... said, ‘You’ve made me the proudest Congolese in the UK.’ And that was like, whoa." – Eddie ([10:01])

• Discusses the pressures and rewards of representing the Congolese community.

5. Unboxing Item 2: The 40th Birthday Mug – Family, Milestones, and Memory ([13:30]–[17:57])

• Item: A mug with suave pictures of Eddie, gifted for his 40th by family.
• Eddie is a mug collector, especially from countries he visits (over 30 mugs—but some are stashed for posterity/Antiques Roadshow!).
• Dilly plays a heartfelt voice note from Eddie’s sister, Charlene, describing their close-knit family and celebrating his achievements ([15:49]).
• Family traits: Eddie embraces the “captain” role as eldest sibling and protector, but notes his siblings also quietly support him.
• Turning 40:
  • Greater honesty, comfort with self, focus on present and family principles.
  • Realizes priorities shift with age and parenthood.
• Quote:

  "I am the captain. I was the captain then. I am the captain now. They also know they can really depend on me...They don’t even realize, but they protect me too." – Eddie ([16:57])
  "In my 40s, I feel like you never know what’s around the corner now, so I am trying to, you know, seize the day." – Eddie ([17:32])

6. The Organized and Minimal Kitchen ([18:00]–[19:18])

• Eddie’s kitchen is functional and minimal—he keeps only what he uses, including old spices, and stores everything for flow and practicality.
• Dilly approves of his approach, stressing that organization should serve those who live in the space.

7. Unboxing Item 3: Sir Alex Ferguson’s Autobiography – Leadership and Life Lessons ([19:36]–[22:29])

• Item: Number one bestseller, "Alex Ferguson: My Autobiography."
• Eddie details meeting Ferguson briefly and describes his reverence for the football legend’s values—hard work, resilience, leadership.
• Finds parallels between his journey and Ferguson’s perseverance against doubters.
• Quote:

  "Winning isn’t just about the trophies. It’s about just finding yourself and being comfortable [with] who you are. That's this man here." – Eddie ([21:46])

• Loves football memorabilia: has scarves, a signed Wayne Rooney shirt (not yet hung!), and boots from Senegal’s El Hadji Diouf—most kept safely, if not displayed.

8. On Organizing and Cherishing Memories ([24:19]–[25:06])

• Dilly advises Eddie (and listeners) that memorabilia should be either displayed or protected in beautiful boxes for future enjoyment and safekeeping.

9. Keep, Sell, Donate: The Final Decisions ([25:38]–[26:33])

• Eddie is asked which items he’d keep, sell, or donate:
  • Keep: The mug ("No, no, I’m gonna keep the mug.") ([25:55])
  • Sell: Alex Ferguson book ("We’re selling the book.") ([26:11])
  • Donate: The trophy—hopes its story can inspire and raise money for charity ([26:23])

10. Eddie’s Happy Place ([26:40]–[27:04])

• Eddie's living room is his haven, especially under his rose throw blanket, with cashews, and without interruptions.
• Quote:

  "My living room is my happy place. Under your rose fluffy blanket. With no one else in it." – Dilly & Eddie ([26:40])

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• On Connection:

  "You don’t have to know someone from before to connect with them." – Eddie ([01:36])

• On Comfort:

  "It’s because it’s about my comfort." – Eddie ([04:23])

• On Representing Community:

  "I kind of felt like, am I doing the right thing by my community? Am I representing them? ... and all I had to do was be myself." – Eddie ([09:14])

• On Identity:

  "The toughest moments have been being in rooms and going, The things I’m saying, are they translating well or it doesn’t feel like it’s enough... But actually I’m the golden child, you know, I’m unique and special, but that’s — it takes a while." – Eddie ([11:56])

• On Organizing Memories:

  "When we have memories, we need to organize them or at least look after them or put them somewhere in a beautiful box..." – Dilly ([23:54])

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• Intro & Lessons from the Jungle: [00:41] – [02:33]
• Home Comforts & Space Audit: [02:44] – [05:56]
• First Item: Church Trophy: [06:18] – [12:38]
• Second Item: 40th Mug & Family: [13:30] – [17:57]
• Kitchen Organization: [18:00] – [19:18]
• Third Item: Alex Ferguson Autobiography: [19:36] – [22:29]
• Football Memorabilia Stories: [22:50] – [24:56]
• Organizing Memories Tips: [25:04] – [25:38]
• Keep, Sell, Donate Game: [25:38] – [26:33]
• Happy Place Discussion: [26:40] – [27:04]

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Tone and Language

Warm, humorous, and affectionately teasing throughout—Dilly’s organizational passion and Eddie’s easy, self-deprecating wit make for a natural, engaging conversation. The banter reflects genuine warmth and respect, with moments of vulnerability as Eddie opens up about family, faith, culture, and the search for identity.

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Practical Takeaways

• Consider periodic "space audits" to list what you like and dislike in your home, not just to declutter but to cultivate gratitude.
• Organize and display memorabilia that means something—or protect it in a way that future generations can enjoy.
• Minimalism isn’t about having less, but about having what works for you and brings you happiness in your own space.

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Final Thoughts

Eddie Kadi’s episode is both funny and reflective, moving seamlessly from comfort blankets and TV remotes to faith, family, and football. It reminds us that the most meaningful parts of life are less about the things we possess and more about what they represent—the relationships, values, and stories they carry.

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Transcript

[A]

I'm Dilly Carter, the organized one. And this is Sort yout Life Out Unpacked. Get ready to unpack three boxes with my celebrity guest. Every box has an item from their own home, plus a load of stories and memories. And stand by for my tips on how to sort your own life out too. My guest this episode has both danced on strictly and more recently has braved the jungle. He's also been making us laugh for over 20 years. He's a proud dad and rightfully proud of his Congolese heritage. Welcome to the brilliant comedian Eddie Caddy.

[B]

Oh, thank you, Dilly. I appreciate it.

[A]

It's so lovely to have you here.

[B]

No, thanks for having me.

[A]

I feel like looking at you, I can't help but smile. You've got the most infectious aura and energy about you. You can't help. Just look at you and think, oh, my gosh, I'm happy immediately.

[B]

I really appreciate that. That means the most to me. To be fair, I'm just like, grateful. I am, I'm genuinely grateful about life.

[A]

And this podcast is obviously all about the items that we own, but being in the jungle, you were stripped of

[B]

everything, every single thing. It's like my mobile phone, I need to call my friends or go in the group. Oh, no, that's, that's not there. Oh, like, you know, I, I might just wanna, I don't know, listen to some music. Well, that's not there. Everything that you're used to, you have to find a new way. And finding a new way, we're just finding a new you. And that's what I really appreciate about being in the jungle.

[A]

And do you think that's probably why you form such close relationships with the people, because you're not surrounded by any items that can bring you comfort?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Have is each other.

[B]

I'll tell you what, what I, I learned from that is we need to do more of that. Yeah, we're supposed to do more of that. And you don't have to know someone from before to connect with them in the jungle is that there's people that you've seen on the telly, some of them, you know, older, some younger. You have a five minute convoy, you go, this person is a lot more like me than I thought. You know, I didn't think I have anything in common. Ruby Wax. My God, the first. To be fair, the first few minutes, Ruby was like, yeah, I live in Notting Hill and I want to go to Nightingale Carnival. And I just started dancing and really backed herself up on myself. This nobody will Ever believe this? Even if they saw it.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Ruby Wax is catching a wine.

[A]

Yeah. Backing up on you.

[B]

Backing up on me.

[A]

Oh, my God.

[B]

But it was, you know, those conversations I had with her and Martin and, you know, you know, young H. All these guys, you know, beautiful.

[A]

But what is lovely is, like you just said, those human connections, they were only possible because you weren't surrounded by stuff.

[B]

Yeah. You know, you don't need much.

[A]

Exactly. We surround ourselves by stuff.

[B]

Absolutely.

[A]

Absolutely.

[B]

Stuff.

[A]

I mean, I am so excited to see what you brought in, but first, I'm gonna ask you a few quick fire home trees. Okay. How would you describe your home in a sentence?

[B]

Comfortable?

[A]

Yeah, I mean, I've heard that you often fall asleep on the sofa.

[B]

I do. That sofa was bought so I could fall asleep to sleep on. It's spacious enough.

[A]

Blanket on the sofa?

[B]

Absolutely. It's there permanently.

[A]

Is it? What type of blanket? Describe your perfect blanket.

[B]

I tell you what, it's like a rose throw. I just have it, and it's a bit fluffy at the top, but, yeah, very smooth on the other side.

[A]

Is it fleecy? It is fleecy. Pale rose. Who knew Eddie Caddy. Pale rose blanket on his sofa.

[B]

And it's just there. And then I'll have my table close to me just in case, so you

[A]

don't have to reach too far.

[B]

There you go. The comfort man.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I mean, the remote will be there sometimes. Little popcorn do love my cashews.

[A]

If I turned up unannounced, what room would you ban me from entering?

[B]

First of all, if you turn up and announce you're not coming in, let's just be very clear, Dilly.

[A]

Oh, thank you.

[B]

You're not coming in. I'm treating you like your TV license, man. Jehovah's Witness TV license. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. If you do make it through. Yeah, you've done it again. I'll probably ban you from the living room.

[A]

Why?

[B]

It's. I just feel like when people get in the living room, they get excited. You probably take the remote. You want to. I want to. I want to watch the football highlights for now. Please don't start suggesting. Oh, there's this new podcast out. Oh, did you see that thing? No, just. Just chill, Dilly. Might just leave. Just be in that corner for now, please.

[A]

Is there a corner chair?

[B]

There is, there is.

[A]

What's on the chair? Why are you laughing?

[B]

You know, one of those garden chairs, you get those very. How do I put it? The foldable ones. Yeah.

[A]

Plastic garden chair.

[B]

No, it's not Plastic.

[A]

So I'd be sitting on the garden chair.

[B]

I would be comfortable. It's because it's about my comfort.

[A]

Oh, it's your comfort.

[B]

I'll be comfortable with you being there and just being as far removed from the remote control and everywhere else. You can have a cashew.

[A]

Okay, thank you. That'd be very kind.

[B]

Everywhere else. Go.

[A]

Oh, I'm allowed to look in the other room. Yeah.

[B]

I'm saying if you make it to the living room, you're going to get the corner. But apart from that, have a look. Feel free around the house.

[A]

Okay. What about your home are you most proud of.

[B]

Just proud of the independence.

[A]

Yeah. That you have a home.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[A]

That's so important as well, because I think so often or not, we run in and out of our houses, we don't actually appreciate the actual space.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

I do something called a space audit, which is a really good challenge. So a space audit is basically grabbing a piece of paper and pen, splitting the page into three things that we like, things that we dislike, and things that we would change. So we walk around our entire house and we write that list. And what that does is it gives us a really in depth to do list. Now, this list doesn't have to be things that you tackle this week, this month. It can be an ongoing list. But it's very important that we write the things that we like, not just the things that we don't like.

[B]

Incredible.

[A]

And the first thing I ask people to do on their space order is to go out of their house, close the front door and look at it and just appreciate the fact that you have a house, that you have a safe roof over your head, and that you are lucky enough to have your own house, your own space. That is safe, that is happy.

[B]

I think that's brilliant because sometimes we often go like, it's not enough. I want to fill every single space. And I'm learning, actually to just declutter.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I think I'm doing well.

[A]

Living with less.

[B]

Living with less.

[A]

I mean, you could get rid of your bed. Oh, yeah. Let's look at your first item because I'm so excited. Pass over that box to me, please. Let's see what we got. Okay. So it doesn't feel too heavy, this box. It's a medium sized box. Let's have a look. I'm gonna. Oh, okay. So we've got a trophy.

[B]

Yes, we do.

[A]

It is a gold trophy and it says, to Eddie Caddy, we are proud of you, Eprata. Is that the right pronunciation Eprata Church Community Mission Conference, Bolton. Oh, well, this is lovely. Tell me all about this gold trophy that I'm holding my hands, which is probably. How tall would we say this? Probably from my elbow to my hand.

[B]

Yeah. You know, that's my mini World Cup.

[A]

Your mini World Cup?

[B]

My uncle, my dad's older brother lives in Bolton.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

But I've never been to his church. And I grew up in a church, you know, my mom, especially for my mom, the church was our thing. And now living independently, there's moments where I don't think I go to church as much as I used to, you know, And I don't even know if there's an excuse. I just think life. Right. And I remember we lost my cousin a couple of years ago.

[A]

I'm sorry.

[B]

No, thank you. You know, and, and, and it was, it was, it brought the family a lot closer together. I was told by my uncle that, look, we wanted to run this entire day. And it was the first time I felt like, oh my God, I'm becoming one of the elders in my.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Do you know what I mean? My family. So the pastor came up to me afterwards. Look, he was very, like really responsible, very mature. I didn't think I'll see this side to you because I just watch you from afar as a stand up, all that stuff. And I felt really heartwarming.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

A couple of years later, he invites me to his church. But it was like I just wanted to come to a church and I felt like I'm in London, it's in Bolton. My schedule is really tight. I don't know if I can make my way up there. Something in me literally was like, you should go. And I remember I had a show the next day, so I literally had to go Bolton and come back, went to the church and I was there with my uncle and it was a nice church service. And then they called me up. It was meant to be like a little conference and they called me just to speak about my career. And I spent like 10 minutes on the mic just talking about my career and also the role that God has played in my career. And I was ready to leave. And this pastor comes and go, we've got something for you. And I honestly, it really touched me because it's like there was such appreciation. And I felt from that moment it just felt like I'm going in the right direction. It really summarizes where my, my spine lies, you know, in everything that I do. And it is, it's in churches in faith. So this trophy Means a lot to me.

[A]

That's so lovely, because I understand as well, the whole. Not going to church as much as you used to. I'm very similar to you, in fact, that my mum and dad went to church. I mean, it was a C of E church, but, you know, we went every Sunday and I played in the church band. Did you?

[B]

I played the keyboard, the drums. Yeah.

[A]

Did you?

[B]

I did, yeah. And I used to play the conga drums. Funny enough. No, it's.

[A]

No, neither can I. I used to

[B]

film at my church as well.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I think for me, it was just. It was grounding.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, it kept me in a safe space as well, kept me really connected to my family.

[A]

What do you think, you know, your career has meant to the Congolese community?

[B]

Oh, man, I. I was really shy of what it meant back in the days. And what I mean by that is I kind of felt like, am I doing the right thing by my community? Am I representing them as I put all this pressure on myself?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And all I had to do was be myself, because I'm actually Congolese.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

As it happens. Just, you know. But now I see a lot more with. There'll be random people that will stop me in the middle of the street and literally say to me, you made me proud to be Congolese. You know, and it's things like getting invited by the Congolese ambassador in the uk, you know, just have a conversation. It's like, I've watched your stuff over the years and you really mean a lot to the youthful. How can we work together to really empower the youth and those things? And then my father saying to me, he said to me, my dad's text me when I left the jungle.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And, you know, you can't wait to get to your phone, right?

[A]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[B]

You know, and then one of the early texts, my dad said, you've made me the proudest Congolese in the uk. And that was like, whoa.

[A]

You know, Because I read about the fact that your dad used to come and watch you perform at your comedy shows, and he didn't laugh at the first one, did he?

[B]

No, I talk about stage man. He. My dad was not happy that I followed the career comedy, you know, all these opportunities in the uk, you want to do comedy, you want to be a clown?

[A]

Why are you not a doctor? Why are you not a lawyer?

[B]

Are you trying to embarrass me?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But I will say, my dad came to the show, he nodded. He nodded for a whole hour. And I realized at the End the nodding was him counting all the people in the place and counting the money and him saying, yeah, listen, that this is a great career, because that's where it comes down to, you know, like, when you're coming from a place, you know, where opportunities are not there as much, you don't consider the arts.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

They open doors and they play a massive role in society.

[A]

What do you think's been your career highlight so far?

[B]

I think the jungle.

[A]

The jungle.

[B]

It has to be. But being able to tell my story.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

On there, and a lot of the young people watching and going, that is also my story. For me, that was just. Yeah, it was a beautiful feeling.

[A]

It's lovely to be able to be recognized.

[B]

It is.

[A]

And for people to look at you and it be a reflection of who. A little piece of who they are.

[B]

Absolutely.

[A]

And see someone, you know, from the Congolese community standing up and being proud.

[B]

Well, I tell you what, it's a bit of relief because going in the jungle, I've always boasted when I did my stand up dilly, like, I'm from, you know, Congo. We have the second largest rainforest in the world. So I'm going in there. It was like, Eddie's going to ace this. I couldn't even start a fire. Thank God for Jack Osborne. Are you sure you're Congolese? I said, I'm British, actually.

[A]

Yeah, I'm British.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But, yeah, it was. It was showing a different side.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

To myself and being able to just be naked.

[A]

What do you think's been one of your, you know, the toughest parts of your career?

[B]

I think for me, if I have to be totally honest, struggling with who I am and if it's enough, it still happens. Some people call imposter syndrome. I think it goes beyond that now. I think it's just about identity and. And fitting in. So for me, it's been that the toughest moments have been being in rooms and going. The things I'm saying, are they translating well or it doesn't feel like it's enough. Sometimes you leave rooms or you leave opportunities or a TV show or something going that. It felt like I was the outcast, but actually I'm the golden child. You know, I'm unique and special, but that's. It takes a while. And I always encourage people to be like, be patient with yourself. But that's always felt really tough, like trying to break through with that mentality.

[A]

Can you just tell me, where is this trophy kept? At home.

[B]

So it's actually kept. There's A corner I have at home. It's like a box. It's just on the side and I put a few of my trophies there. So it's kept right there so I can see it.

[A]

Because when you have beautiful things, when you've earned rewards, I feel like they should always do be displayed. And so many people actually don't display things like that.

[B]

Half of them are my mom's house.

[A]

Are they? Why is half of them at your mom's house?

[B]

Because they want to keep it there.

[A]

They are because they're proud.

[B]

People come and that one is when Eddie, you know you won the first award. That one is. Mom, can I have. You've kidnapped my award.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You still got my five meter swimming certificates. I tried my best daily.

[A]

Can you please pass me your second box?

[B]

My pleasure. Oh, this one's a bit smaller. Don't be disappointed.

[A]

This is a smaller one.

[B]

A big box.

[A]

Okay, let's see what's in this box. It is a smaller. Oh, okay. One of my favorite items.

[B]

Oh yeah.

[A]

This is a mug. Yes, a mug. Yes, we. Everyone knows that I love hate mugs because people have so many mugs. Why do they keep so many mugs? But the mug that I am looking at has got a picture of you. It is you, isn't it, on this mug?

[B]

Yeah, it's a few of me.

[A]

A few very suave looking pictures of you, Eddie. On this mug there's three pictures of you. On this mug, one of you is just in a plain T shirt, looking very cool. One is with sunglasses on. Looking very cool. Just a headshot.

[B]

One of those days where we had the sun.

[A]

Yep. And another one is an award ceremony. Also looking very cool.

[B]

This is the name of the game.

[A]

Eddie Caddy 40. So this was a 40th birthday gift, I take it?

[B]

Yeah, it was. First of all, I'm one of those people that I collect mugs. I mean, I've. I'll be honest with you, it's. But it's. I collect them from the countries I've visited.

[A]

Ah, okay. I really hope you've only visited 12.

[B]

A few more than that.

[A]

How many mugs have you collected over the years?

[B]

I've lost count. Some of them are put away.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

You know, and then some are kind of just. Yeah. Doing it.

[A]

What do you mean you put them away? You store mugs elsewhere than your kitchen.

[B]

Yeah, because eventually it's gonna be passed on to my grandchildren.

[A]

Oh my gosh. You're saving mugs to pass on to your grandchildren?

[B]

Yes. They'll make a good. 3 pound, 4. 50 off them.

[A]

What, you want to pass them on for them to sell?

[B]

Antiques Roadshow.

[A]

Yeah, Antiques Roadshow mugs.

[B]

I think if they make it to Antiques Roadshow, there'll be a great story with it.

[A]

Have you ever looked at how much mugs collect on the Antiques Roadshow?

[B]

I'd probably a mug to do that.

[A]

How many mugs do you think you have in your.

[B]

Over 30.

[A]

Over 30. Well, that's not actually as bad as I thought it was going to be.

[B]

I said over 30.

[A]

Over 30.

[B]

Yeah. We'll keep it on over.

[A]

But in your kitchen cupboards.

[B]

No, there's less.

[A]

There's not as many.

[B]

For me, it's like. Oh, a little piece from the country, but this particular one.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Was celebrating my 40th and I got it from my family.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

And I think it was, you know, they selected the right pictures. That's really important. And it was really touching. Yeah. And I'm the eldest in my family and it felt really, really nice. And it's just like. But also just a reflection of how far I've come, you know?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. Four decades. Yeah. Thank God.

[A]

Actually, we have got a voice note from your sister.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Which I'd love to play you, Charlene.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

For me, Eddie, turning 40 was a very special milestone, not just for him, but for us as a family. We very close family, very close knit. We really wanted to celebrate it with him, even though he didn't want any fuss. So in the end, we made sure to have an intimate celebration which we organized as a surprise. It was just lovely to see how happy he was that day. And I felt so proud of everything he had achieved because he's worked so incredibly hard. So that was 40, and we're looking forward to 45 and 50 and more celebrations and wins.

[B]

Looking forward to my son.

[A]

That's so sweet. So lovely.

[B]

Yeah, that's. Yeah, that's. You know, we're three years apart, so we're very, very close. And also, as you can hear. Yeah. She's a lawyer. She's the one. Yeah. She's the one that really went for what my dad wanted.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Know what I mean? But. Yeah.

[A]

But you're really close to your siblings.

[B]

I am. I'm close to my siblings. There's. There's four of us.

[A]

Have you got any sibling traits? Older sibling traits?

[B]

I. I think so. I've just. I am the captain.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. I was the captain then. I am the captain now. They also know they can really depend on me. They know that I'm on the other side.

[A]

You want to protect them.

[B]

I do. I do.

[A]

That's your role.

[B]

They do. They. They don't even realize, but they protect me too.

[A]

Yeah, they do.

[B]

So, yeah, definitely. I definitely have those big brother traits.

[A]

And has anything really changed since you've turned 40? Is something big happened, or do you feel like you're a different person now you're 40?

[B]

I'm not as bothered about certain things. I'm a lot more honest. Oh, my gosh. If I'm not happy with any of my friends, I told them I'm not happy about this, and I just want to be comfortable, and I go back to my golden chair.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. At least I told them. But also, I think generally in 40, I feel like you never know what's around the corner now.

[C]

No.

[B]

So I am trying to, you know, seize the day.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

As much as possible, but also being responsible enough. You know, I'm a father, you know? Like, I think that part as well is like, trying to pass on things to my daughter. Just. Just principles that I've learned that I think they have served me well, those things, but. Yeah. But I can't play football as much as I used to. Dilly. No, I can't. No.

[A]

Means you get to spend more time at home organizing your cupboards.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

How. How are your cupboards, by the way? How's. Where's your worry mugs kept?

[B]

Okay. So

[A]

is it an organized kitchen?

[B]

It's all right. I think it's okay. I think, because I don't use it as much as I'm not. I'm not an amazing cook. I can. I can put together a good lasagna, good stew.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I mean, those things there. But then there's other stuff that I just like. Oh, I get it wrong.

[A]

So would you say your kitchen is quite minimal, then?

[B]

It's minimal.

[A]

Yeah. You only have what you need.

[B]

Yeah, exactly.

[A]

Very good.

[B]

Nimble to the sink is where. Where the mugs are, the glasses are,

[A]

so it makes sense. It flows.

[B]

There you go. Next to the cook on the spices are there. I'm not saying I use them every day. I do often open, and they go, remember us?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

We're aspiring.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. If I looked at your spices, would it be like 2003 was the last time you looked at it?

[B]

2005.

[A]

2005.

[B]

Let's be specific.

[A]

But at least they're in the right

[B]

position, and at least I'm intentional.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Because you never know.

[A]

I think the most important thing about our kitchens is that they work for us and that they flow, you know? So when you are standing at your hob and you're trying to create your dish that, you know, your spices are there, your oils and vinegar. Vinegars are there, it makes me happy.

[B]

I can see how happy you are with that.

[A]

A minimal kitchen. And actually, it makes sense. And your kitchen flows. Everything sounds like it's in zones. I'd be very happy sat on my chair in your front room.

[B]

I say this, and then you randomly turn up and realize it's upside down.

[A]

It's all a lie.

[B]

It's all a big lie.

[A]

Oh, gosh. It is time for your third and final item. I'm excited to see what's in this one, because this is a big box.

[B]

Big box for the big boys.

[A]

Oh, God.

[B]

For the big stuff. Yeah.

[A]

It feels quite light, though. Feels quite light.

[B]

Don't judge it by the size. Don't judge it by the size or

[A]

the number of trophies. In this very big box is a book, and it's a number one bestseller by none other than Alex Ferguson.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

My autobiography. I don't know about you, but whenever there's a book, I go through the pictures.

[B]

You go to the pictures first.

[A]

Who are the pictures of? Who's there? I mean, this is my era. I remember the days of, you know, Rio playing Beckham playing Roy Keane. Oh, keep going, legends. So tell me about your love of Manchester United and why this book is so important.

[B]

He is. He is incredible. I got to shake his hand. It was at the PFA Awards years back, and he was just walking by, like they had all these guys. Funny. Oddly enough, I was in the toilets and I met Ryan Giggs in the toilets. There's context and, you know, we're both having a leak. And I looked to my right and I saw Ryan Giggs. I thought, that's Giggsy. And I went, hey, Ryan, you're right, mate. Picture. Wrong timing.

[A]

Yeah, I know.

[B]

I still regret it. Till today, he was like, not now, mate. I said, oh. But he did. I did leave before him. I washed my hands and I waited for him outside, and we took a picture. And then I'm walking back and seeing everybody. And at the time, I knew Rio. So I said hi to Rio. And then so Alex just walked past, and I was just like, hello, sir. Nice to meet you. And I just reached out and he shook my hand, and I just. I hold on to that moment, but I think of all the years of success and what he meant as a leader, and not just a leader of Manchester United, but just a leader in football. And the respect he had. Reading his book made sense. Yeah, because he came from a hard working family. You know, he had principles, you know, he respected his culture, you know, and he bought all those things and the hard work to Manchester United. And there were people who didn't. They didn't believe in him when he first came there. They didn't find the reason why he should be there. And he wasn't winning at first. And then when he eventually won, people forgot the hard work. And I, and I think people need to read this to really understand what a path of real life to winning is. And winning isn't just about the trophies. It's about just finding yourself and being comfortable who you are. That's this man here.

[A]

Oh, you can resonate with him. Yeah. How many times have you read that book?

[B]

Twice.

[A]

You've read it twice?

[B]

I've read it twice. And the first time I read it with excitement. I don't think I must focus. So you do look forward to the pictures.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You do kind of go, oh, my gosh. And you know, and then the second time you're picking at the details. His relationship with his wife, he sadly passed. You know, and you could tell she really, she really held him down a lot. He didn't make decisions without. And I think that was like, really incredible. But also the relationship he has with the players, they saw him as a father figure figure, you know, his emotions.

[A]

Like. Like you and your. Your family.

[B]

Absolutely, absolutely. So, like, yeah, he's. Yeah, he's an incredible man.

[A]

I mean, like comedy football brings people together.

[B]

Yes. It does. Everybody.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Football is one of those things where even if you don't like it, you are connected to a person that really loves it.

[A]

I agree.

[B]

And then you kind of think, I want to cheer them up, you know, give them, get them tickets to a football game or just watching them just be happy. Watching a football game is incredible.

[A]

You know, Other than a book, do you have any other football memorabilia?

[B]

I do. Yeah, I do. I've got. So I went.

[A]

Lots of scars.

[B]

Lots of scars. Do you know, it's funny, I went to a United versus Ipsch street sound.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Game. So a friend of mine who's really close to Ed Sheeran, and of course Ed Sheeran, you know, is one of the. I'm not sure if he's the owner or chairman, but he's definitely a big part of Ipschet. But he invited us to his box and it was nice. And, you know, we had the scarves and that. So I remember that moment, but I remember going to the end of the year players awards at Old Trafford and there was this Wayne Rooney shirt memorabilia and, you know, went up for an auction and I said, I'll go for it.

[A]

So you've got the shirt, the Rooney shirt?

[B]

I've got it. It's in my house.

[A]

Is it on the wall?

[B]

Do you know what's funny? It's not on the wall yet. I haven't found the wall.

[A]

I thought we'd displaying the things we love.

[B]

I know, but I.

[A]

By your trophy.

[B]

I feel like I want to hit him for now. I don't know why. It's just. It's in my room. So when I come into my room, it's in the corner. It's just there, it's signed and everything. But I've also got football signed by all the players.

[A]

When we have memories, we need to organize them or we need to at least look after them or put them somewhere in a beautiful box so that when we do want to go and find them, we can go, ah, there's those beautiful memories. They're in that box and you can bring that box down and you can go through them and you can look at them and you can enjoy them. Or if they are not going to be stored in a box, then we at least need to have them on a wall. Even if you've got a wall of tribute to Manchester United, you're such an Inter designer.

[B]

I can just see. It's like. I feel like now I'm in changing rooms.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But you know what? I. It's so weird with that because it. Just being there when I come in my room, like, it's against the. It's a weird thing. It's like against the wall.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

It makes me happy.

[A]

That's enough.

[B]

Yeah. I've got these football boys from a. I don't know if you remember Ella's duf. And he played. He played for Bolton. He was a Senegalese football player.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Incredibly successful when they went to the World cup of Senegal because they beat France, which is. But like, I'd met him in Senegal and he gave me these boots which he signed.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

And they're hidden as well.

[A]

They're hidden, yeah. As long. As long as they're not hidden under stuff.

[B]

Antiques Roadshow.

[A]

If we want to get things for the Antiques Roadshow, your mugs, your football boots, we need to make sure we look after these things.

[B]

What do you recommend there?

[A]

I would say that you need to make sure they're at least Put in a beautiful box or a box so that they're protected. Because if in the eventuality that you do go to the Antiques Friday show or you decide to auction off those boots for charity, then, you know, need to be in good nick. So those things need to be protected. They need to be looked after. You can take the box with him. No, they're my boxes. You need to go get your own boxes. Send him some boxes to organize his stuff. So we have seen and heard about all your items. Thank you so much for bringing them in.

[B]

My pleasure.

[A]

If you had to, which would you sell, donate, or keep? So can I convince you? Maybe. What do we think? Part with a mug?

[B]

No, no, not quite. No, no, that's.

[A]

No, that was a firm.

[B]

No, no, I'm gonna keep the mug.

[A]

Keeping the mug.

[B]

I'm keeping the mug.

[A]

What are you gonna sell?

[B]

I think somebody would definitely buy the Alex Ferguson book.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

One million percent. I think I did a quite a good sale.

[A]

Yeah, you did. I mean, United fans.

[B]

Absolutely. So I'm definitely. Yeah. We're selling the book. We're selling the book and then we're donating the trophy. The trophy. I think that will go a long way. It is a great story to it.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

We're donating the trophy and I want good money for it, guys. Yeah, I want to donate it. So then someone goes at an auction and makes great money for charity or some sort. I think it's extremely important. It's a great story.

[A]

Yeah. And my last question to you, where in your home? I think I know the answer to this, though. Where in your home is your happy place?

[B]

My living room.

[A]

Your living room is my happy place. Under your rose fluffy blanket.

[B]

Absolutely.

[A]

With no one else in it.

[B]

With no one else in my little garden chair on the side.

[A]

With your garden chair on the side. Eating some cashews.

[B]

Eating some cashews.

[A]

With a cup of tea on the side. Oh, I tell you what, Eddie, thank you so much. You've been such a joy to sit with and to learn all about you and your family and your home. I'm sad that I'm only going to get to see one room, but, you know, thank you.

[B]

We'll work towards that.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You've got plans for the house. Oh, my God. Let's be careful with this one.

[A]

Thank you so much.

[B]

Thank you, Dilly.

[A]

I can't wait to be back with you for more revealing home truths, organizational hacks and celeb unboxings. Sort your life out Unpacked is presented by me, Dilly. Carter. You can watch us on iplayer and listen on BBC Sounds. And don't forget to subscribe on BBC Sounds and have push notifications turned on to make sure you don't miss an episode.

[D]

Hello, I'm Tyler West. And I'm Alfie Watts and this is the Detour, the official companion podcast to Race across the World. This is the post episode Checkpoint where you'll hear the latest chat around each episode from us and our Race superfan special guests. Plus I'll be joined each week by our resident travel expert Alone Coffee. That's you, man. I'll be revealing my optimal way to travel through each leg, including visits to all of those unmissable detours along the way. And we'll also have some not seen anywhere else exclusive content at the end of every episode. Cannot wait. The Detour will land straight after each episode of Race across the World. You can watch on iplayer or listen on Sounds, where you'll also find extra bonus content. We'll see you then.