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The Howie Games - Ashes Diaries

The Howie Games - Ashes Diaries

In this special Howie Games series, we go behind the scenes with two of Australia's biggest stars — Mitchell Starc and Alex Carey — as they prepare for their quest to retain the Ashes on home soil. You'll hear raw, inside access as Starcy and Kez share what it really takes to play Test cricket for Australia: the mindset, the grind, the camaraderie, and the pain behind it all. But first, we delve deep into what makes the Ashes the ultimate cricketing showdown. This is the start of something special. Exclusive voice memos, WhatsApp messages, and never-before-heard insights. Strap in. The Ashes Diaries begins now.

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25min•
19 Oct

Ashes Diaries: Episode 1 - Rivalry

The rivalry that defines cricket is back and the countdown is on. In this special Howie Games series, we go behind the scenes with two of Australia's biggest stars — Mitchell Starc and Alex Carey — as they prepare for their quest to retain the Ashes on home soil. You'll hear raw, inside access as Starcy and Kez share what it really takes to play Test cricket for Australia: the mindset, the grind, the camaraderie, and the pain behind it all. But first, we delve deep into what makes the Ashes the ultimate cricketing showdown. This is the start of something special. Exclusive voice memos, WhatsApp messages, and never-before-heard insights. Strap in. The Ashes Diaries begins now. 🇦🇺🔥 *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don't miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 - Feedback Friday November 21 - Episode 10 - Camp Tuesday November 25 - Episode 11 - Game Day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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27min•
23 Oct

Ashes Diaries: Episode 2 - Ouch

Before the Ashes roar to life, the real battles — of mind, body and preparation — are already underway. We dive into the never heard before prep that keeps Australia's stars sharp and grounded. Alex Carey opens up on the mental side of elite cricket — the mantras, mindfulness, and mindset that help him reset and perform under pressure. From Ben Crowe's wisdom to his own evolving self-talk, Carey's reflections are as raw as they are relatable. Meanwhile, Mitch Starc begins the long road back to the Ashes — through intense medical appointments, rehab, and a mini pre-season grind. It's an intimate look at the pain, the persistence, and the passion driving one of the game's great fast bowlers. Mind and body. Reflection and recovery. Episode 2 peels back the layers of what it really takes to stay in the fight — mentally and physically — on the path to Ashes glory. *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don't miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 - Feedback Friday November 21 - Episode 10 - Camp Tuesday November 25 - Episode 11 - Game Day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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19min•
26 Oct

Ashes Diaries: Episode 3 - A Numbers Game

In elite sport, every number tells a story — and in this episode, we dive deep into the digits behind the Australian cricket team's Ashes campaign. From GPS trackers to gym stats, Mitch Starc reveals the staggering distances covered by a fast bowler and the strength needed to keep his body firing at 35. Alex Carey takes us behind the stumps for a day in the field — covering 15km on his feet, with explosive bursts and endless squats to stay sharp for every delivery. Then, a huge moment — Starc drops a major announcement, opening up about the emotional phone call to coach Andrew McDonald as he retires from T20 international cricket. It's raw, honest, modest and quintessentially Mitch. Plus, a little footy chat as finals fever takes hold — Alex's Crows take on the Magpies, while Mitch's Hawks are set to clash with Howie's boys. A mix of emotion, endurance, and elite insight — A Numbers Game lifts the lid on what it really takes to play at the highest level. *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don't miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 - Feedback Friday November 21 - Episode 10 - Camp Tuesday November 25 - Episode 11 - Game Day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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32min•
30 Oct

Ashes Diaries: Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action

The countdown to The Ashes continues... and things get very fun along the way! It's content capture week for the Aussie cricket team — five days of cameras, chaos, and countless laughs. From early gym sessions with Nathan Lyon, to Alex Carey's Men's Health shoot prep, to Mitch Starc's behind-the-scenes banter (and a cheeky cameo from Alyssa Healy) — this is professional cricket like you've never heard it before. Howie joins the crew on set as the players juggle media, training, and footy finals chat — all while keeping spirits high and energy levels (just) alive. From covering up a "Picasso" to Starcy's pump-up speeches... it's the unfiltered, hilarious, and human side of Australia's stars before the Ashes heat up. The laughs are rolling, the cameras are rolling... and the countdown is well and truly on. *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don't miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 - Feedback Friday November 21 - Episode 10 - Camp Tuesday November 25 - Episode 11 - Game Day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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28min•
2 Nov

Ashes Diaries: Episode 5 - Dad

In this deeply moving episode, Alex Carey and Mitch Starc open up like never before. We explore what family truly means to them. While Alex takes us inside fatherhood as a professional cricketer and Mitch shares what family life looks like when your partner is also a professional cricketer (Onya Skipper!) Training ramps up as Alex and Mitch Starc prepare for the Ashes, and then things get raw. Alex lets us into a profoundly intimate moment — as he navigates the toughest of times with his dad, reflecting on the man who helped him chase his cricketing dream. It's emotional, heartfelt and real — a reminder of the people and love that shape every athlete's journey. It's not just cricket — it's life, mateship, the game that they play and the people that they love. *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don't miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 - Feedback Friday November 21 - Episode 10 - Camp Tuesday November 25 - Episode 11 - Game Day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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19min•
6 Nov

Ashes Diaries: Episode 6 - Do What You Love

Mitch Starc unpacks the Aussie skipper's injury concerns as fast bowlers continue to go down - it's the brutal reality of injuries in cricket — and what it really takes to get back on the park. Alex Carey speaking with raw honesty after the passing of his father. From heartbreak to high performance, Carey's courage to "do what you love" shines through in a powerful and emotional chat from New Zealand. From Mitch's first bowl to batters in weeks, to mowing the lawn (with the Howie Games in his ears ofcourse), Starc opens up about the grind, the setbacks, and the simple love of the game. Cricket season roars to life post-AFL Grand Final — with Usman Khawaja joining from the ‘G. Plus, team news, injury updates, and a stirring reminder that behind every stat, there's a story. *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don't miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 - Feedback Friday November 21 - Episode 10 - Camp Tuesday November 25 - Episode 11 - Game Day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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32min•
9 Nov

Ashes Diaries: Episode 7 - Nice Garry

Ashes prep is starting to get real. From white ball, to red ball and everything in between. Including, a special catch up with Nathan Lyon. Mitch Starc goes from his first hit back in the nets, to life back on the road. While Alex Carey gets some crucial red-ball time for South Australia in a Sheffield Shield final rematch, up against an in-form Marnus Labuschagne... who's making a serious case for his Ashes return. And then there are nerves. The beautiful, brutal part of sport that every elite athlete learns to live with. From sponsor shoots to long days at Cricket Central, from early-morning Shield prep to the chaos of school runs before training. The grind, excitement, and professionalism of Ashes build-up are on full display. It captures the tension, excitement, and emotion of the calm before the Ashes storm. *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don't miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 - Feedback Friday November 21 - Episode 10 - Camp Tuesday November 25 - Episode 11 - Game Day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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35min•
13 Nov

Ashes Diaries: Episode 8 - Roulette

What's life really like on the road as an Australian cricketer? Mitch Starc and Alex Carey take us behind the scenes.. from airports, flights, hotels and endless baggage runs, to the moments of fun that keep the team bonded. We roll into Adelaide for the ODI series, where Alex hosts a team dinner featuring good food, better wine... and then a few stories on credit card roulette! Who picks up the tab when the boys go out for dinner? There's plenty of laughter, travel tales, and stories from dinners shared with the who's who of Aussie cricket. Plus, we farewell legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma and review the white ball series against India, before Mitch makes a surprise trip to India. From chaos to camaraderie, this is what life between, during and after matches really looks like. *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don't miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 - Feedback Friday November 21 - Episode 10 - Camp Tuesday November 25 - Episode 11 - Game Day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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32min•
16 Nov

Ashes Diaries: Episode 9 - Feedback

The Aussie Ashes squad is in and the countdown is well and truly on. We dive into one of the great unspoken pillars of elite sport: feedback, and how the best in the world learn to live with it. Across early-morning entries, late-night reflections and a couple of classic check-ins, Mitch Starc and Alex Carey take us inside the mental side of cricket at the absolute highest level. Mitch opens up about the flood of external attention and how he's learned over his journey to sort the white noise from the gold. From the best feedback he's ever received, to the lessons that have shaped a decade of international cricket, Mitch is honest, raw and razor sharp. Then it's Alex Carey's turn. Kez walks us through the aftermath of that Bairstow moment, the noise that followed, and the feedback that mattered most. He shares how he processed it all. And just when you think the boys are cruising toward Ashes camp... chaos. Mitch takes us into a crucial Sheffield Shield hit-out - a key milestone in his final prep - only for the match to unravel with hamstring injuries to Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott. It's the full reality of elite cricket one week out from the biggest series on earth. Lock in. The final countdown is on. And we are in seat 1A! *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don't miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 - Feedback Friday November 21 - Episode 10 - Camp Tuesday November 25 - Episode 11 - Game Day See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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35min•
20 Nov

Ashes Diaries: Episode 10 - Camp

The Ashes are here... and Mitch and Alex take us into the final countdown, and take you right inside the inner sanctum as the Aussie boys switch fully into game mode. Starcy fires things up from the boarding lounge in Sydney before taking us all the way across the country to Perth, where the final week of prep unfolds. Both boys walk us through everything that matters in the countdown to the first ball: the meetings, the match intel, the fine-tuning at training and even the go-to room-service orders once they hit hotel life. There's insight into how Australia plans to attack England, what they're seeing in the Perth Stadium wicket, and just how much spice might be hiding in that surface. The lads share what they've noticed, how they'll play it, and what's going into the tactical blueprint. There's team news. There's tension. And then there's Howie jumping on a plane to head west to join the Fox Cricket and Triple M call teams, where even the hotel check-in is humming with Ashes energy. The prep is done. The hype is fever pitch. Now... it's time for action. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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40min•
23 Nov

Ashes Diaries: Episode 11 - Game Day

After 100 days of build-up, planning, sacrifice and anticipation... it's finally here. The Ashes. Mitch Starc and Alex Carey take you straight to Perth and inside Game Day like never before. From the restless night before, to the moment to the first ball, to the quiet recovery after a bruising Day 1, this is the unfiltered mindset and minute-by-minute rhythm of two professionals living one of the biggest days in recent Australian cricket. And then comes that fast bowling. Mitch Starc unleashes one of the most devastating fast-bowling performances in recent memory. It was a display that will sit proudly in Ashes folklore for years to come. Beside him every step of the way is Alex Carey, providing the calm, sharp, steady presence that helps drive Australia's perfect start to the series. It's raw. It's revealing. It's everything we love about sport, pressure, preparation, passion, delivered with unparalleled access. And to conclude the series, another huge thanks to Kez and Starcy for opening the doors and bringing us along for the ride. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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