Lachlan McKirdy has become one of the most distinctive emerging voices in Australian sports media. Sharp, grounded, and unashamedly red and white at heart.
In this episode, Lachlan shares the story behind his rise in journalism, his experience covering AFL in a rugby-leaning state, and the memorable moments that made his connection to the Sydney Swans something deeper than professional. From press boxes to packed stands, he reflects on what it means to live inside the world of both 'supporter' and 'observer' at the same time.
We explore the unique storytelling power of sport, the connection between media and fandom, and what it really means to follow a club that wears its culture on its sleeve.
Lachlan is the ideal guest to tell the Bloods story from both sides of the coin. It's a conversation filled with insight, warmth, and the deep resonance of Swans DNA.
Joel Brown’s story is unlike any you’ve heard on Bloodlines so far.
A lifelong Swans fan alongside his sister Krystal, Joel was front and centre during one of the most iconic moments in AFL history: Buddy Franklin’s 1000th goal.
While most were caught up in the chaos and celebration, Joel and Krystal were there to fulfil a family promise. Carrying a photo and the ashes of their beloved Nan, Edna Dixon, they made their way to the centre of the SCG to honour her wish of becoming part of the place she loved most.
What followed was a moment that blended footy history with deeply personal meaning - spontaneous, heartfelt and unforgettable. This is a story about family, fandom, and the powerful ways the Bloods culture can connect us to those who came before.
Matt Gray, better known as Mitzy, is as good a storyteller for the red and white as you will ever come across.
In this episode, we go on a journey through his lifelong obsession with the Sydney Swans. Mitzy doesn’t just follow the club. He breathes it, dreams it, and remembers it with a clarity that borders on magic.
He’s one of those rare fans who stores every game, every moment, and every heartbreak deep in his memory. From obscure home-and-away games in the mid-90s to the ecstasy of the modern era, Mitzy brings the Swans’ story to life in a way few others can. His love for the red and white is as emotional as it is encyclopedic.
We cover everything from his journeys on overnight trains to get to special games, to the friendships built with players, to the moments that hit so hard they changed him.
And just as a cheeky sidenote, yes, Mitzy was in the rooms after the 2005 Grand Final win. That’s who we’re dealing with.
If you’ve ever loved the Sydney Swans with your whole heart, this one will feel like home.
Before the SCG Museum existed, someone had to bring it to life. That someone was Joe Moore.
A passionate Swans fan and gifted writer, Joe spent the better part of two years researching and authoring over 200 biographies for the club's most influential figures, from Hall of Famers to presidents to premiership legends. Along the way, he conducted more than 100 interviews and penned over 250,000 words capturing the club’s 150-year legacy.
In this episode, we talk about Joe’s writing process, what he learned from digging through the club’s archives, and how his relationship with the red and white has evolved across eras, heartbreaks and triumphs.
You can check out Joe's work at https://www.joemoorewriter.com/ or connect with him professionally over on his LinkedIn
Barnaby Howarth's story exemplifies Bloods culture as much as anyone that's ever played for the club.
He was drafted onto the rookie list at the Sydney Swans as a young man, despite being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just 14 years old.
He played in the Swans system during the late nineties and early 2000s.
At the age of 25, Barnaby survived a life-altering stroke. Rather than letting that define him, he came back to community football, eventually reaching his 100th senior game and being inducted into the Sydney AFL Hall of Fame.
Since then, he’s become a keynote speaker, a documentary storyteller, and the host of Everyday Greatness - a platform dedicated to the unsung heroes of everyday life.
He’s an ambassador for diabetes, stroke and cancer foundations, and one of the most grounded, human voices you’ll find when it comes to resilience, self-awareness and what really matters.
From the SCG to the speaking stage, Barnaby has carved a legacy that goes beyond footy. This is a conversation about resilience, identity, and what it really means to wear the red and white - both on the field and off it.
Want to learn more about Barnaby's story? Head to:
https://barnabyhowarth.com.au/