About
Former UK government speechwriter | Substack Publisher | Football writer
About
I’m Sam. A speechwriter, copywriter, and communications specialist with over a decade’s experience helping leaders find the right words — oh, and I do a bit of football writing too.
From ministerial speeches in Parliament and op-eds in national newspapers to writing about the weekend’s results, I craft clear, punchy and persuasive messages. I love writing. I love the process. I love the craft of sharpening sentences and playing with the rules of rhetoric. Whether it’s a keynote speech or a joke-a-minute after dinner, I find the words that connect with people and the structures that make speaking aloud a doddle.
The services I offer are listed below. If you’re looking for a writer, a speechwriter, or you’re interested in finding out more about training, then I’d love to chat.
Services I Offer
Speechwriting – for keynotes, conferences and events
Copywriting – for op-eds, blogs, newsletters, video scripts, and web content
Training & Coaching – for teams looking to improve their public speaking, writing, and storytelling
Substack publishing - proven strategies for individuals and organisations to grow audiences on the Substack platform
Substack (football writing)
I chose to host this little “about me” page on Substack because it is home to two publications that mean a huge amount. First, The Pinch — a newsletter & podcast about Sheffield United that I started in 2022. It has grown into a Substack bestseller and has been shortlisted three years running for the Football Supporters’ Association’s “Best Fan Media” award.
Second, NTT20.COM, which in 18 months has become the home of the best writing about the EFL anywhere in the universe. Short of being a left-footed target man who’s unhappy to run channels but eager to probe the six-yard box, writing about football has to be the best job in the world.
Here is a selection of articles from both:
A write up of a football match
On the widening gap between the EFL and the PL
On the recruitment issues at Sheffield United
On VAR in the EFL
A message to the 23/24 Sheffield United squad
On the rhetoric of a would-be owner