What if talent development wasn’t just about creating better athletes but better people?

In this conversation, I sit down with Barnaby Sargent Megicks, a researcher who spent weeks inside a cricket academy, not just watching but truly understanding what makes a talent system work. His focus isn’t just on performance but on how young athletes grow as people, how they balance their sport with school and life, and how the environments they’re in shape their future, both in and out of the game.

We dig into the tension between chasing peak performance and developing life skills, the power of relationships in coaching, and what it really takes to create a system that prepares athletes for success - not just on the field, but in life.

Barnaby’s insights are built on real experiences, deep research, and countless hours spent with young cricketers navigating the demands of elite sport.

Enjoy!

---

For more on creating game changing environments that unlock meaningful progress, sign up for Craig's free newsletter Beyond the Game here.

Connect with Craig on Social:

LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter

Support the show

On the show this week, Dave Wright rejoins me for another episode of The Curious Mind. Our conversation focuses on the skills you need to develop great young leaders.

---

For more on creating game changing environments that unlock meaningful progress, sign up for Craig's free newsletter Beyond the Game here.

Connect with Craig on Social:

LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter

Support the show

Suzie Muirhead is the creator of Raise My Game, a tool designed to help athletes and their coaches navigate performance planning, personal growth, and decision-making. Suzie’s journey—from New Zealand hockey player to mentor and innovator—has shaped her belief that true development starts with ownership, trust, and the right conversations.

Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode is packed with insights to help you level up. Enjoy!

---

For more on creating EPIC learning environments that bring out the best in your athletes, sign up for Craig's free newsletter Beyond the Game here.

Connect with Craig on Social:

LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter

Support the show