Podcast
The Heart of It: A distinctly Tasmanian conversation with the Devils
Hosted by Tasmania Football Club · EN
Welcome to The Heart of It, a podcast by Tasmania Football Club, where we delve deep into the stories behind the legends of Tasmanian football. In this podcast, we explore the rich tapestry of Tasmania’s football history, celebrating the players who have left an indelible mark on the game.
While their achievements on the field have been well-documented, we believe there’s more to the story. Our conversations go beyond the headlines, offering listeners a glimpse into the journey that shaped these remarkable careers. From humble beginnings to the pinnacle of success, we uncover the driving forces behind their passion for the game.
Tasmanian football fans will relish the opportunity to hear the reflections of past greats, gaining insight into the essence of their remarkable careers. But this podcast is more than just a trip down memory lane; it’s a celebration of Tasmania’s immense contribution to football.
Join us as we explore the heart of Tasmania’s football legacy, fostering a sense of connection and belonging among fans, past players, and the broader community. These conversations are more than just nostalgia; they’re a testament to the enduring spirit of Tasmanian football. Welcome to The Heart of It: A distinctly Tasmanian conversation.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The story of John Leedham
Feb 400:33:47Tap to summarizeIn this heartfelt conversation, Pippa and Chris reflect on the remarkable football career of John Leedham — one of Tasmania’s greatest ever players. From his early days dominating local leagues to becoming the first Tasmanian selected in the the All-Australian team in 1953, and ultimately his recent induction into the Australian Football Hall of Fame, hear the personal stories, triumphs and memories behind the legend.
Transcribe →Tunisha Kikoak
Feb 400:35:08Tap to summarizeA late comer to the game, Tunisha Kikoak first picked up a sherrin at just 12 years of age and hasn’t looked back since. Progressing through the Tasmanian talent pathways, Tunisha earned her opportunity at the elite level, joining the Fremantle Dockers AFLW program as a forward and occasional ruck. Her journey hasn’t been without heartbreak, experiencing the disappointment of being overlooked in the 2023 AFLW Draft. But resilience defines her story. After signing with the Dockers in June 2024 as a replacement player, Tunisha seized her chance and has since been rewarded with a two-year contract extension with the purple army in Western Australia. In this episode, Tunisha shares her rise through the ranks, the emotional lows of professional football, and the determination it took to turn setback into opportunity.
Transcribe →Nick Foot
Feb 400:38:34Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Al Nicholson sits down with Nick Foot of Glenorchy, one of Tasmania’s most respected and highly decorated football umpires. Nick reflects on his journey from officiating local grassroots matches to taking charge in front of massive crowds on the game’s biggest stages. He shares the challenges, lessons, and defining moments along the way — including the career highlight of umpiring the 2024 AFL Grand Final between Brisbane and Sydney. From humble beginnings to the pinnacle of Australian football, hear Nick’s story, insights into elite umpiring, and what it takes to perform under pressure at the very top level.
Transcribe →James Manson
Feb 400:44:21Tap to summarizeOne of football’s great characters, James Manson was fiercely competitive, unapologetically intense, and impossible to ignore. A premiership player with Collingwood and a key member of the Tasmanian team that famously defeated Victoria in the 1990 clash, he truly was the ultimate football rockstar. In this episode, he opens up about his move from North Hobart to Collingwood, the culture shock of AFL life, and his volatile on-field behaviour. The passion, aggression, and mindset that defined his career. Raw, honest, and unforgettable, this is a story of talent, attitude, and the fine line between brilliance and chaos.
Transcribe →Jimmy Webster
Jan 2000:37:36Tap to summarizeNo description available
Transcribe →Robbie Fox
Jan 400:34:24Tap to summarizeNo description available
Transcribe →Dana Howes
Dec 1800:47:52Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Heart of It, Alistair is joined by Dana Howes, a highly respected sports and major events professional whose career spans more than 30 years. Dana shares her journey through some of the biggest stages in sport, including working on the Super Bowl, while also speaking to her deep and enduring passion for Tasmanian football. She reflects on her early career experiences, the lessons learned along the way, and the moments that helped shape her path. The conversation also dives into Dana’s time working within the Australian Football League and at the Carlton Football Club, offering insight into elite sporting environments and the people, culture, and challenges that define them. A thoughtful discussion about leadership, opportunity, and staying connected to the heart of the game.
Transcribe →Brody Mihocek
Dec 1400:53:35Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Heart of It, we sit down with Brodie Mihocek to explore a football journey defined by hard work, determination, and a never-say-die mindset. An Underage All Australian who didn’t break into the AFL system until the age of 25, Brodie’s rise is anything but conventional. From kicking four goals on debut to playing in an AFL Grand Final in his first season, his impact was immediate. Hailing from Burnie, Brodie went on to become a four-time leading goalkicker for the Collingwood Football Club. Now, he looks ahead to season 2026 as a Demon, following a recent trade to Melbourne Football Club. An honest and inspiring conversation about persistence, belief, and making the most of your moment.
Transcribe →Toby Nankervis
Nov 2700:46:54Tap to summarizeWe’re back with a big one. This week, Richmond captain and three-time premiership ruckman Toby Nankervis joins us on The Heart of It. From the North-West farming communities of Tasmania, Nankervis rose through the state’s cricketing ranks as a promising fast bowler before eventually making the switch to football — and the rest, as they say, is history. He may prefer to stay out of the spotlight, but Toby opens up in a rare and thoughtful chat with our host Alister Nicholson, reflecting on his Tasmanian roots, his journey, and what’s truly shaped him along the way.
Transcribe →Jake Kolodjashnij
Nov 1400:34:48Tap to summarizeWelcome back to Season 2 of The Heart of It. We’re kicking things off with a very special guest — Geelong premiership player Jake Kolodjashnij. Jake Kolodjashnij (or referred to as 'Dutchy' in the episode) is a premiership-winning Australian rules footballer celebrated for his calm composure, defensive reliability, and steady development into one of Geelong’s most trusted backline players. Born in 1995 and raised in Prospect (just outside of Launceston) Tasmania, Jake grew up surrounded by sport. He spent most of his childhood riding bikes and competing in various games alongside his twin brother, Kade, long before football became the focus. Although he began in soccer and basketball, Jake didn’t pick up Australian rules football until the age of 12 — a late start that makes his rise even more remarkable. His talent quickly became obvious, and in 2013 he was selected by the Geelong Football Club with pick 41 in the AFL National Draft. Standing at 193 cm, Jake established himself as a key defender known for his overhead marking, smart reading of the play, and ability to rebound from defence. One of the defining moments of his career came in 2022, when he became an AFL premiership player as part of Geelong’s dominant back-six unit. This episode dives into Jake’s Tasmanian footy story — from local grounds and twin-brother rivalry to the elite pressure of AFL football and what it truly takes to stay grounded, consistent, and connected to the heart of the game.
Transcribe →