A PODCAST to "inspire and motivate" youngsters has received the backing of Colchester United legends Lomana Tresor Lua Lua, Karl Duguid, Kem Izzet and Alex Gilbey.

All four have been interviewed for the Focus on Goals podcast, which has been launched by businessmen Lee Brooker, of Happy Days Photography, and Angelo Harrop, from SCS (Sports Coaching Specialists).

The pair joined forced to produce a podcast they hope will help youngsters, chatting with professional footballers, successful business people and others who have had to deal with difficulties in their lives.

They ask the subject of their interviews what motivated them to beat the tough times and hope to educate youngsters about the perils of social media.

"It's something we've been working hard on throughout the lockdown and hope it will help inspire and motivate the next generation," said Mr Brooker.

"In addition to the U's legends, we've also spoken to the likes of property investors and PGA golfers.

"It's going from strength to strength and we're keen to get a message out there about social media acceptance and the pressure youngsters feel from self-image.

"The perceived lifestyles and snapshots of people’s lives that are shown on their phones are often not the reality."

Mr Brooker and Mr Harrop both run their own businesses and work within schools.

They are keen to give back as much as possible to students, particularly during these uncertain times.

“It's really important to us that youngsters and people who only see the glory and Instagram life hear the truth," added Mr Brooker.

"We want people to know it's OK if you fail at something and that if things don't go to plan, there are always options and lessons to turn into a positive.

"There are also always people who want to see you do well and we've recognised this so much during this horrible lockdown period."

Mr Brooker and Mr Harrop are keen to hear from anyone who has a story of adversity they would be happy to share.

"We love to hear stories of the underdog coming through and just how people have dealt with challenges in their lives," said Mr Brooker.

"Podcasts are becoming much more of a well-known medium now.

"It's real-life conversation, unedited with no hidden story or agenda which you sometimes get in other media."

To download the podcasts, visit www.anchor.fm/focusongoals, search for Focus On Goals on any podcast platform or follow Focusongoalspodcast on Facebook.