Big Balance Theory

As a glass half full person, I've always been keen to explore people's strengths not weaknesses. Within my apprenticeship consultancy and coaching practices I use a range of strength based assessments and recently added the At My Best strength cards to my toolkit. This month's guest is co-founder of At My Best and Work Positive, an organisation committed to helping organisations like M&S and the NHS to, basically, work positively. As a Chartered Psychologist, Michele is passionate about bringing her 25 years of experience to create simple, effective solutions to creating a positive work culture and maximise the wellbeing of all. She truly advocates small changes to bring about big differences - a theme that consistently emerges from past conversations on this pod. Michele's what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance for 2025: · CONNECTION · PROGRESS · PLAY Tune in to find out why Her go-to book that would get her through isolation – A Month in the Country, J L Carr For contact details see below. Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Michele Deeks (9) Michele Deeks | LinkedIn At My Best - tools to help professionals bring the best out of people – At My Best (Work Positive Limited) Work Positive - Work Positive Big Balance Theory is sponsored by Salad Skills Ltd. A company passionate about matching and developing talent with forward-thinking and purposeful organisations. www.saladskills.co.uk

I'm joined by Graham Field, Thinking Focus coach and trainer, where we talk all things priority; the big life choices and day to day habits that can lead us down a rabbit hole of lost time. If you're anything like me, you set the day or week with best intentions but then life happens and everything goes to pot. I first met Graham by chance at a business exhibition. Fast forward a few years and we worked collaboratively on a project for the residents of the YMCA giving them the tools and belief to build a life and career beyond homelessness and hostel living. We proudly won a National Training Award for this work back in 2009 and continued to stay in touch. This man, in my view, has work life balance nailed and above all he's authentic, values-driven and works with purpose. Graham's what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance for 2025: ·       PURPOSE: Inspired by Simon Sinek he always works to the ‘Why' philosophy ·       FOCUS: Making sure he focuses on all his ‘balls of life' ·       HELP: He knows the power of asking for help; we're not superhuman Tune in to find out why His non-fiction book that would get him through isolation – The Star Wars Empire Trilogy For contact details see below. Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Graham Field www.linkedin.com/in/graham-field-2570864 www.thinkingfocus.com Big Balance Theory is sponsored by Salad Skills Ltd - a company passionate about matching and developing talent with forward-thinking and purposeful organisations. www.saladskills.co.uk

This episode is a how-to conversation on ways to improve your body image, break free from binge eating and a diet mindset to one of growth, confidence and better choices in life and business I'm in conversation with Terri Pugh, a transformative life coach who helps women build confidence in how they show up in the world. Through coaching, workshops, speaking events and hosting her own podcast, The Intuitive Eating and Body Positivity Podcast, Terri has helped 1000s of women to feel confident in their bodies, their choices, and their careers. As an intuitive eating and body image certified coach and a Nutritional Therapy graduate she lifts the lid on how to stop binge eating, break free from diet culture and feel happy in your body.  If you're a professional who struggles with self-doubt, body image pressures, and feeling like you don't belong at the table you're not alone. And while Terri's typical client is female, her work appeals to all genders, sizes and ages   Terri's what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance for 2025: ·       EXPANSION – expand her mind and body socially, educationally and happily ·       LIBERATION –  working on self-freedom ·       DISRUPTION – stop staying safe and be more authentically heard Tune in to find out why Her non-fiction book that would get her through isolation – The Time Traveller's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger – so she can just get ‘lost' For contact details see below. Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Terri Pugh (4) Terri Pugh | LinkedIn Instagram Terripughcoaching Terri Pugh | Intuitive Eating Coach - Terri Pugh  

If you're familiar with the work of world-renowned Belbin Team Roles you'll be inspired by this conversation. ·       Why understanding each person's team role is ever more critical ·       The original research was carried out by Mrs Belbin who deliberately shone away from the limelight – a timely revelation to mark International Women's Week ·       Face to face communication is becoming more prevalent ·       Why reflecting on what we've achieved is vital ·       AI has the potential to make us more ‘human' Jo's what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance for 2025: ·       Team – we can only achieve so much by ourselves ·       Slow-space – (we loved this) breathe, slow down and create pauses ·       Reflection – let's just have some more ‘wow' look what we've achieved! Tune in to find out why Her non-fiction book that would get her through isolation – Tolkein's Lord of the Rings Trilogy, especially chosen to reread to see how if her older lens sees things differently For contact details see below. Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Jo Keeler (7) Jo Keeler | LinkedIn Belbin www.belbin.com  

This episode is bursting with all things positive but this is not to be confused with Toxic Positivity. Using a range of studies to back her work, Tillie shares with us the importance of purpose, values, emotions and language to create a truly authentic, meaningful and engaged team. Our conversation explores: · Why appraisals don't work · How to know your limit before burn out hits · How to foster a culture of transparency Tillie's what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance: · REST · ECO SYSTEM · CHALLENGE Tune in to find out why Her non-fiction book that would get her through isolation – Happier by Tal-Ben Shahar. For contact details see below. Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Tillie Newnham Tillie (1) Tillie Newnham | LinkedIn Happy Work Hive – www.happyworkhive.com  

Elain candidly and honestly shares her journey of her downward spiral in terms of mental health. She neither recognised the signs nor had the toolkit to deal with the symptoms. It completely transformed her perspective on work-related breakdowns. Once she'd sought help she took the brave decision to set up a business to help others and this month celebrates 10 years in business.   Within 2 days of the pandemic her phone didn't stop and she hasn't looked back since and it's clear she has an absolute passion to make a difference so that others don't endure the same as she did. “I am an expert in me” not someone seeking to perpetually please nor strive for perfection. Elain's what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance: ·       BALANCE ·       BRAVE ·       FAITH Tune in to find out why Her book that she would take into isolation turned out to be the one that got her through lockdown – A Trip of One Zone, by Kate Willis. For contact details see below. Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Elain Crewe www. About Us – Wellbeing4Life Linkedin.com/in/elaincrewewellbeing4life E: elain@wellbeing-4-life.com  

We're all aware of how working arrangements have changed for most since 2020. How do businesses get the balance right between serving their people and what's best for the business? What are the new skills needed to manage flexible working and the surge in online communications? These are the topics covered in this latest episode with Zoe Hawkins, co- founder of In Good Company, a global triple accredited Coaching Training Organisation, Facebook community group, The Coaching Crowd, that's got just under 6500 members, and their No. 1 podcast of the same name that releases fresh insights every Monday since it launched in November 2021. We also asked Zoe for her what 3 words to a road to happiness and in true authentic style we ended up with 6! · LOVE · PASSION · FUN · LISTEN · CHOOSE · GRATITUDE The book choice that Zoe chose was a first – Wagamama's cookery book – that Zoe would take into isolation. For contact details see below. Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Zoe Hawkins www.igcompany.co.uk www.zoe-hawkins.com  

Welcome to this latest episode with Esther who shares lessons learned from her cancer diagnosis in 2015. Professionally she came off the treadmill and completely changed her career and has never looked back. We talk about the impact of covid and she shares top tips on how to get work life balance and keep your glass full! Esther's what 3 words to a road to happiness · GROW · REFLECT · THRIVE The book that Esther would take into isolation is the brilliant Daring Greatly by Brene Brown. For contact details see below. Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Esther Partridge-Warner   Podcast engineer Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie

Welcome to this latest episode with fitness trainer Ruairi Davies. From a dream job training elite rugby athletes in Chile to a lockdown-enforced return home. He thought he would return 2 weeks later (a familiar tale) but that didn't happen and his career took a new focus. What he has learned and keen to share is: ·       You can have a grand plan but that can change in an instance; don't panic because things do work out ·       Only control the controllables ·       Physical and mental health go hand in hand – you can't have one without the other ·       Exercise gives you more than physical benefits – it creates social connections ·       Just 10 minutes of activity a day can be enough. ·       Why an 80 year old called him a miracle worker   Ruairi's what 3 words to describe his road to success, balance and happiness ·       Health – no surprises there ·       Limitless – don't set self-limiting beliefs and go for what suits you and your lifestyle ·       Courage – take that leap even if it's just a step, or a commitment to do something. The book that kept Ruairi going through lockdown – Barbarian Days, , A Surfing Life by William Finnegan Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Ruairi Davies, Action Athletic Facebook  ActionAthletic Instagram ActionAthletic Podcast engineer Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie  

Welcome to this latest conversation with Hayley Tutte. Two years ago, past guest Hayley bravely shared with us how the silence created by lockdown led to a whole change in career. Since then, Hayley has gone from self-employed to running her own clinic, works 3.5 days a week and is more balanced than ever. A recent ADHD diagnosis has further transformed her life. Things we now know about classic ADHD characteristics are: · Procrastination · Hyper focussed and hyper observant · Can often overshare then overthink and overanalyse · Task paralysis · Struggle with long lengths of time with people · Impulsiveness Hayley's three words to navigate her own road to success are: · Connection – building solid, meaningful connections with people is vital · Stability – essential for most people but especially to deal with ADHD characteristics · Movement – keeping physically fit is crucial Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Hayley Tutte Facebook Huquine Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation Huquinesporttherapy.co.uk  

Welcome to this latest conversation with Dave Hider. Dave has held extensive strategic leadership roles and during lockdown, whilst working full time, navigating different processes as a result of lockdown with most of his team furloughed he completed his MBA with distinction. Covid made him realise that life is too short so he left the trappings of a stable career and started his own business Mind-Gap with a purpose to help leaders bridge the gap between unlocked potential and success. The business is booming and he is committed to donating 30% of his time and profits to support some of the poorest countries in the world and talks about corporate karma. As a coach and trainer he talks about balancing market opportunities of online coaching and rich and engaging training. Can it be done without the coffee conversations? “Ploughing a furrow…” We explore the meaning of work-life balance and how his own journey is so liberating and rewarding that, even though he works more hours now, he is more balanced. Dave reveals how he's moved from the ‘fast line' to the ‘flow lane' and why purpose is pivotal to all that he does. In his case he is really driven to helping people, businesses and communities to hunt out what else they could be doing, discovering and ‘leaning into'. Dave's 3 words for happiness, success and balance: ·       GIVING – always attracted to those that give ·       PURPOSE – how do we move to proactive not reactive sense of purpose ·       POTENTIAL – the importance of stepping out of your comfort space Dave wraps up with what we should do more and less of to get a happier, balanced life Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com (33) Dave Hider MBA | LinkedIn Unlocking Potential Through Leadership Training - Mind-Gap Podcast engineer Karen Pirie  

In this episode my conversation is with Maddy Shine. Maddy is a website wonder coder, an SEO supremo and runs three businesses. Her purpose is to shine bright and help other women entrepreneurs do just that.  Our conversation leads to changes in buyer behaviour since lockdown and her tips on how to grow your business, why giving, especially to your own community, is important and how to make your brand stand out. We hear about the importance in wellbeing of our Third Space and so much more. Maddy gives us her three words for happiness, success and balance: Community Connection Conversation Maddy wraps up with what we should do more of and less of to get a happier, balanced life. Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com (17) Maddy Shine | LinkedIn www.maddyshine.co.uk   Producer, Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie

In this episode, No. 28, my conversation is with Dr Lizzy Bernthal. Having served 25 years as a healthcare specialist in the Army, rising through the ranks to Lt Col and completing an MEd and PHD in resilience, Lizzy's own business mission is to help others by removing toxicity in the workplace through resilient leadership.  Her many insights include: What is resilience in the boardroom? Why we should bounce forward not back How confidence, trust and resilience are interlinked The importance of #practisingwhatyoupreach How a toxic environment can lead to a lack of self worth if not dealt with The importance of failing to our development and growth Lizzy gives us her 3 words for happiness, success and balance: GARDENING SPACE SPARKLE Lizzy wraps up with what we should do more and less of to get a happier, balanced life Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com (4) Dr Lizzy Bernthal | LinkedIn www.rypotential.co.uk Producer, Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie

As an actor, Dick Bradnum worked for 30 years across TV, film and radio, appearing in The Office, High Hopes and My Hero. Under his own name Dick Johns, he has written and performed three successful solo shows at Chapter, Cardiff: Dick Johns - What Midlife Crisis? (2016), Let's Talk About Death, Baby (2018) and in 2022 a documentary record of The Great Pandemic Sofa Show.  Alongside this Dick works in the corporate sector having written, designed and facilitated leadership programmes for clients including Network Rail, Sony Games, Astra Zeneca, the NHS, LinkedIn, Marks and Spencer and hundreds more. His work contributions have led to many awards being won for his diverse clients and his focus is helping people to have better conversations. He talks optimistically about the next generation and how engaged they are in being inclusive in their conversations, especially around neuro-divergency, and how much more empathy they have. Dick is definitely more aware of the world around him since the pandemic era and wishes we all had more time for play in the workplace. He selects his 3 words for a balanced life and explains why he choose them – Sunshine, Poetry and Glamour - and he reveals how a gold tie is sometimes his secret weapon! Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Guest: Dick Johns (2) dick johns | LinkedIn website Dickjohns.co.uk Producer, Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie

In this episode my conversation is with Nicky Applegarth, MD of award winning digital marketing agency, Ayima.  This agency serves many of the world's biggest brands with a global team of just over 100.  Nicky started her digital career back in 1999 in a small website design and build agency at a time when mobile phones were simply used to make phone calls and send text messages. In 2013 she took a five-month career and life break exploring South America on her own. The experience gave her a new sense of balance but it was shortlived and she was soon on ‘that treadmill'. Lockdown forced her to revisit balance and she shares how.  Nicky gives us her three words for happiness, success and balance:  NO  FIT and   KINDNESS   and our conversation explores the challenges of recruiting a younger generation and how expectations have changed for this generation  Recommended read: Every Dog, A book of over 450 breeds – Nancy Hajeski  Recommended film: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone  Recommended podcast: Drinking from the Toilet – Hannah Branigan    Sarah:  Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory  Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/  Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory  bigbalancetheory@gmail.com  Guest: Nicky Applegarth   (14) Nicky Applegarth | LinkedIn  Nicky Applegarth (@nickyapplegarth) • Instagram photos and videos    Producer, Karen Pirie  Twitter: @karenepirie 

Hear Julie's honest and heart-searching experience of what it was like being a Principal of a secondary school during lockdown and how, post-pandemic, more specialist staff have been appointed to support students' social and emotional needs. Past guests have shared at least one benefit from lockdown but for Julie it was the worst period of her career in education with no work-life balance. We talk about the impact to the young and why growing the workforce with apprenticeships is key and we learn the support mechanisms in place to make the apprenticeships' journey and workplace integration successful.   Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Guest: Julie Robinson Linkedin (1) Julie Robinson | LinkedIn Producer: Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie

Self-affirmed ‘Queen of Business' Libby shares her entrepreneurial journey from building a sizeable business in 2009 to now being a no-BS (her words) Business Coach helping other entrepreneurs to be happy and successful in their work. Nothing stands in Libby's way, not even ADHD or Autism. Her interview is inspiring, energetic and down-to-earth and you will definitely get something from this interview on how to get balance in your business (Recommended reads at the end of the interview) Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Guest: Libby Langley Linkedin(5) Libby Langley | LinkedIn Instagram LIBBY - Business Coach & Strategist (@libbylangley) • Instagram photos and videos Facebook (6) Facebook Podcast – Life in Business Producer:  Twitter: @karenepirie Instagram: karen.pirie Recommended reads Pursuit of Happiness – Ruth Whippman Delivering Happiness – Tony Hseih Life in Business – Libby Langley

This is our last episode of 2023 snd it's full of all things work-life balance. In this two-year anniversary pod, producer Karen Pirie and I go over the highlights of the 20 plus guests we have been lucky enough to interview since we launched in November 2021. We reflect on how the world of work has changed, how businesses have innovated and adapted and we have a lengthy discussion on how these changes have impacted the younger generation entering the workplace. There's also some top tips on how to continue good habits and we share the most popular recommended book and podcast so far.

Rupert talks about the challenges of remote coaching, working in isolation with his business partner and wife and how he coached businesses through lockdown. Remote working isn't new for Rupert but what he's witnessing is greater honesty among remote workers and leaders. Recommended read, listen and legacy and best ever boss at the end of the interview Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Guest: Rupert Turton Linkedin (5) Rupert Turton | LinkedIn Producer, Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie Recommended reads: Book - SUMO – Shut up and Move On – Paul McGee Recommended podcasts: Stephen Bartlett – Diary of a CEO Bus X – James Vincent High Performance Podcast – Jake Humphreys and Damian Hughes

Veronica tells the moving story of how hitting rock bottom, emotionally and physically, led to life-changing choices for her and how she's made a business out of helping others improve personal and business relationship. Recommended read, listen and best ever boss at the end of the interview Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Guest: Veronica Weedon Instagram Veronica Weedon | Health Coach & Hypnotherapist | Writer (@revivalhealthllc) • Instagram photos and videos Linkedin (10) Veronica Weedon | LinkedIn Producer, Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie Instagram: karen.pirie Recommended reads – any on the topic of human design Recommended podcast: Women of Impact Lisa Bilyeu (Co-founder of the billion dollar company Quest Nutrition).

Darius gives us a real insight into why and how recruiting staff has changed. Though lockdown was a contributory factor, Brexit, a shortage of younger talent and the surge in early retirees have all contributed to a growth in vacancies and a skills shortage. Hear how businesses are having to adapt their offering and learn what candidates are looking for in their next career move. Darius shares lessons learned during the lockdown reset and explains how the business and his health are now stronger and more balanced. Recommended read, listen and his best boss are at the end of the interview Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Guest: Darius Matusiak Instagram Macildowie Recruitment (@macildowieworld) • Instagram photos and videos Linkedin (2) Darius Matusiak | LinkedIn (2) Macildowie Recruitment and Retention: Overview | LinkedIn Facebook (1) Facebook Producer, Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie Instagram: karen.pirie Recommended reads: Book: Viktor E Frankl – Man's Search for Meaning Recommended podcasts: The High Performance Podcast – Jake Humphrey and Professor Damian Hughes

Laura shares the impact of lockdown to her business and her family, particularly for her son who is autistic and her daughter who has dyslexia. Hear how she learned she is more independent than she realised and how communications were critical to getting through lockdown. Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com Guest: Laura Mayfield Instagram https://www.instagram.com/marketing_outsidein/ Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurajmayfield/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/marketingOUTSIDEin Twitter https://twitter.com/MarketOUTSIDEin Producer: Karen Pirie Twitter: @karenepirie Instagram: karen.pirie James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Recommended read: Book - Ignore The Fear by Fiona Quinn  Recommended podcast: Lex Fridman Pod - My Therapist Ghosted Me 

In this episode we interview Ryan Sneddon. Covid gave him the courage to set up his own business and he has so many lessons and memories to share, from the joy of getting your first paycheck, to moving operations from the kitchen table, to picking and packing facilities. In just 18 months the company has turned over half a million pounds and he's on track to reach a million by 2024. If you're passionate about your business you'll find a way. Don't listen to the doubters. His recommended read, listen and legacy are at the end of the interview Karen:  Twitter: @karenepirie Instagram: karen.pirie Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Email – hello@sportingedge.com Recommended read: Neale Daniher (coach and a player MND) When All is Said & Done – letters to his grandchildren and life lessons. 

In this episode, I interview Dan Lamoon, founder of Colab Creation, a video creation company. Dan uses his dyslexia as a strength to inspire and educate his corporate and educational clients. Learn how a digital company had to adapt during lockdown and hear why offline will always have its place for interrelations. Recommended read, listen and legacy are at the end of the interview Karen: Twitter: @karenepirie Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production LinkedIn (1) Dan Lamoon | LinkedIn LinkedIn Colab - (1) Colab Creation: Overview | LinkedIn Instagram MD2MD - Dan Lamoon (@dan_lamoon) | Instagram Facebook -  (16) Dan Lamoon | Facebook Recommended read: Screw it, just do it – Richard Branson Recommended podcasts: Diaries of a CEO  - Stephen Bartlett

MD2MD addresses the problem that it can be ‘lonely at the top' through confidential yet open discussions, workshops and facilitation among MDs and CEOs.  Emma was promoted to MD during lockdown. She shares her rise to the top and how their business community fared during lockdown. Recommended read, listen and legacy are at the end of the interview Karen: Instagram: karen.pirie Twitter: @karenepirie Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production LinkedIn Emma Phipps - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-phipps-69958020/ LinkedIn MD2MD - https://www.linkedin.com/company/233327 Instagram MD2MD - MD2MD (@md2md_businessleader) | Instagram Facebook -  (2) Emma Phipps | Facebook Website: Home | MD2MD Recommended read: Wolf Hall - Wikipedia Recommended podcast: Now You're Asking – Marian Keyes and Tara Flynn

In this episode we interview Jeremy Snape. After 19 years of professional cricketing, a series of awards and an MSc in Psychology, Jeremy shares how failure on the pitch inspired a serious exploration of the psychology of sport. He's now a highly respected voice on high performance for the business world. He's the founding leader of Sporting Edge, host of the Apple Top 10 Inside the Mind of Champions podcast, a global keynote speaker and regular media contributor on the link between elite sports and how this translates to the corporate world. Fresh from a keynote event for a global client in Bangkok, Jeremy shares the impact of lockdown on him, his businesses and gives an insight into how businesses need to emerge stronger than ever. Recommended read, listen and legacy are at the end of the interview Karen:  Twitter: @karenepirie Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Linkedin – Jeremy Snape https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremysnape/?originalSubdomain=uk Twitter @thesportingedge https://twitter.com/thesportingedge Email – hello@sportingedge.com Instagram – Jeremy.snape https://www.instagram.com/jeremy.snape/ Sporting Edge – www.sportingedge.com Podcast - Inside the Mind of Champions on Apple Podcasts Recommended read: Atomic Habits by James Clear Recommended podcasts: Huberman Lab

For this episode I got brave and reached out to someone who had inspired me during lockdown. Tom's a poet, an author of two books and a filmmaker who has worked with Colin Farrell and Tim Roth. I'm so grateful he accepted my request to be interviewed. Lockdown provided him with an opportunity to make a name for himself but I have no doubt that he has all the hallmarks to be successful; positive attitude and determination and above all he's mastered the art of articulation. Recommended read, listen and legacy at the end of the interview Karen:  Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Tomfoolery Tomfoolery | In the bad, we find the good! (probablytomfoolery.com) https://www.linkedin.com/tomfooleryltd Instagram: probablytomfoolery Recommended reads: 1984 George Orwell Recommended podcasts: Lex Fridman Huberman Lab Recommended legacy Learn to speak, write and read effectively

In this episode we talk to one of the rare-in-post male senior HR executives. Jonathan shares how many organisations are placing too much emphasis on ‘place' within the post-covid workplace and he offers his top tips for employee engagement and gaining a competitive advantage on talent acquisition. Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview Karen: Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Jonathan Parsons https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-parsons-89a0571 Theories cited: Seijts and Crim: The 10 Cs of employee engagement in the Covid era - CMI (managers.org.uk) Lynda Gratton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynda-gratton-3b179813 Recommended reads: Atomic Habits – James Clear Men Should Talk – Gareth Palmer

In this episode we have a light-hearted chat about Claire's strategies, how she boosts her height by wearing eye-catching heels, and her childhood career ambition to be a stand up comedian. On a firmer footing she shares how she gives ‘purpose time' to her team so they can develop themselves and others, plus we discuss the importance of values and behaviours beyond the paper they're written on. This interview is vibrant, rich and inspiring and Claire was interviewed in her ‘shoedio'. Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview Karen: Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Claire Thompson https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-thompson-9b94853   Recommended reads: Caitlin Moran – How to be a Woman The Four Agreements – Don Miguel Ruiz The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson

In this episode we talk about Matt's journey since his time of depression and suicidal thoughts over 10 years ago and how this journey helped him to manage lockdown. Lots to learn from CMI and how they put people's health at the forefront. Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview. Karen:  Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Matt Swarbrick https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-swarbrick-fcmi-bb057a22 https://instagram.com/swarbs44?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Recommended reads: Black Rainbow – how words healed me; my journey through depression by Rachel Kelly Bowler's Name? The life of a cricketing also ran by Tom Hicks

In this episode producer Karen interviews me to remind the listener where Big Balance Theory began and to reflectively share the journey. As ever, it's an open- hearted, open-minded, authentic and honest chat. Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview Karen Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Recommended read: The Elephant and the Twig: The Art of Positive Thinking: Amazon.co.uk: Thompson, Geoff: 9781840242645: Books  

My guest is Barry Hilton, Managing Director of Mercuri International. Life after lockdown is fundamentally different. He stresses that technology cannot be a substitute for the knowledge and motivation of a human being. Barry shares his behavioural and material changes and how happiness is a key part of his business strategy, and Hertzberg's motivational theory is discussed. Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview. Karen: Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Barry https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-hilton-875442 Mercuri International https://www.linkedin.com/company/mercuri-international-uk-ltd/   Mentions: Hertzberg 2- factor theory Recommended read: Right, Ho Jeeves: Amazon.co.uk: Wodehouse, P G: 9781609420710: Books

I talk to Hayley Tutte, a former social care worker now a qualified equine and human sports therapist who describes perfectionism as a form of self-harm. Hayley had ignored the emotional and physical signs of burnout until lockdown forced her to be, what she feared the most, still. From the depths of trauma she has completely transformed her life. She dares to take the credit for my rowing accomplishments too! Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview Karen: Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Hayley www.huquinesportstherapy Instagram: huquinesportstherapy   Mentions: Brené Brown (brenebrown.com) Amazon.co.uk : the body keeps a score meet the team - Monmouth (monmouthclinic.co.uk) Ride With Your Mind - Rider Biomechanics (mary-wanless.com) Recommended read: Amazon.co.uk : brene brown atlas of the heart

There's so much in this episode from the importance of not saying ‘yes' to everything to recognising that being under-stimulated in life can lead to anxiety as much as a life too full and how perfectionism is not helpful for the mind. Steve tells us how a pivotal curve ball in his career changed everything and we end with a discussion on how those with mental health issues don't always present themselves in the way we think. His greatest fear post lockdown and recommended reads (and an allowed soundtrack because he's a real music buff) are at the end of the interview. Karen: Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps  https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Steve Williams https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-williams-26816659 https://freakonomics.com/podcast/turning-work-into-play/ Recommended read: https://www.bnf.org/products/books/ Mentions: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0GYg0UN5LGkpoQcShLJxyE?si=3L93OKUKSHyBzhnXEfMRIw https://open.spotify.com/episode/4atM5zDRiJRwn9ge74tMCj Dr Karen Sankey who picked Lost Connections Johann Hari https://thelostconnections.com/ https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20180219-toxic-perfectionism-is-on-the-rise

Host Sarah Cripps interviews Carmen of Inspired to Change to find out how and why techniques and good habits lead to positive change. Carmen also shares her lockdown journey with a balance of humour, authenticity and guidance. A plus to lockdown is no smelly socks. Her greatest fear post lockdown and recommended reads are at the end of the interview. Karen: Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Carmen Instagram carmen_inspiredtochange https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmenharringtonhypno Facebook CarmenHarrington(Wilson) Mentions: Four Burner Theory - TheBrightDelights Recommended Book The Miracle Morning – Hal Elrod

Host Sarah Cripps interviews life coach Wenda-Kate who shares her career and life journey including a time in her life where everything ended – her stable job, a regular job with all the trappings - and the end of her long-term relationship, and how lockdown gave her reflective time to learn and then to take control of what she wants in life and to make the magic happen. Key shares in this inspiring episode: Be brave to fly – ask yourself the big questions that you often ask of others Assumptions and beliefs aren't always aligned but when they are, the magic happens If someone offers you an amazing opportunity just say ‘yes' and work out the how afterwards If you need help, ask someone with big boots or ask yourself what your role model would do when you need help with a decision Wenda-Kate's greatest fear post lockdown and her recommend read Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory Karen:  Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @CornwallWoman James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Wenda-Kate Instagram wendaconfikate https://www.linkedin.com/in/wenda-kate-randle-8050a866 Facebook - Wenda-Kate Randle Mentions: Poem The Road Not Taken – Robert Frost Recommended Book Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway – Susan Jeffers

Host Sarah Cripps interviews Rhian of Veg Life a 100% plant-based business based in Malvern, Worcestershire. She's dynamic, inspiring, determined and philanthropic. Key shares in this inspiring episode: Don't wait for the door of opportunity to come to you. Go search for it and keep knocking on that door and find another one if that closes on you The importance of business planning Recognising your own strengths and weaknesses Ignore the critics – carrots and chillies aren't something to be afraid of Rhian's greatest fear post lockdown and her recommend read Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory Karen:  Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @CornwallWoman James at BeHeard Be Heard | Podcast Production Rhian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhian-caffull-4aa9b1164 https://www.facebook.com/veglifeeats/ https://instagram.com/veglifeeats?igshid=NjY2NjE5MzQ= Mentions: Papyrus: Rhian Caffull is fundraising for PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide (justgiving.com) Hereford and Worcester Chamber of Commerce Business Support - Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce (hwchamber.co.uk) Recommended read: Prisoners of Geography: Read this now to understand the geopolitical context behind Putin's Russia and the Ukraine Crisis: Ten Maps That Tell You Everything You Need To Know About Global Politics: Amazon.co.uk: Tim Marshall: 9781783962433: Books  

In this episode I, your host, Sarah Cripps, interview Clare, who described her pre-lockdown life as a ‘one woman travelling circus'. It's now one where she appreciates the green of a leaf more than the green of a dollar. She has so sussed technology that her HOME button is the most important PRESS key Key shares in this inspiring episode: The realisation that even though she thought she was running her own race; she was actually following the pack Being sober isn't boring; being hung over every Sunday is. How she's stayed pretty much alcohol free for two years How a professor changed her attitude forever on his first lecture How inches -  micro changes - lead to great successes and why you can't do something else on top of a busy schedule What it means to be truly authentic How to be the best version of yourself Being consistent – Clare describes her daily "fake commute" and other examples of discipline including digital hygiene and drinking four litres of water per day Her greatest fear post lockdown and recommend read Producer Karen Pirie: Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @CornwallWoman Host Sarah Cripps: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory Mentions: De Montfort University https://www.linkedin.com/school/de-montfort-university/ Professor Peter Stokes https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-stokes-b7560425 One Inch at a Time – Any Given Sunday Al Pacino https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=al+pacino+inches+speech+clean&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en-gb&client=safari#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:67476292,vid:2traDe9a_XE,st:0 Einstein Einstein and the Art of Mindful Cycling – Ben Irvine

In this episode I, your host, Sarah Cripps, turn the tables by interviewing journalist, BBC producer and podcast guru, Karen Pirie. Listen to how she registered time not money as her number one currency and find out more about how she is way more productive than ever before. Karen's insights give fantastic tips for us all to lead a more balanced working life. Small changes really do lead to big differences. Key shares: Why lockdown felt like she'd won the lottery How she balances (and takes) more ‘me time' with work time How technology can take you down a rabbit hole Why doing nothing is important sometimes Set soft intentions for 12 months Stop being so available Her greatest fear post lockdown and recommended read Karen: Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman Twitter: @karenepirie and @CornwallWoman Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/ Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory Mentions: Pocket www.getpocket.com Laura Vanderkam Laura Vanderkam: How to gain control of your free time | TED Talk Graham Field https://www.linkedin.com/in/graham-field-2570864 Joe Pinsker Joe Pinsker An Acre of Barren Ground – Jeremy Gavron Alisdair Stirling composer – Twitter @houseofhiss

How did business leaders react when the global pandemic forced new ways of working, thinking and behaving? In this first episode host Sarah Cripps shares her findings from interviews she did during lockdown among business professionals who just happened to be everyday people. We hear their learnings; from valuing the gift of time in our work schedules, overcoming anxiety and seeing ‘human' put back into ‘human resources'. Some businesses innovated, but most developed a greater appreciation of our own and others' sense of well-being and applied social conscience to business decisions. The greatest takeaway was a whole new meaning to the concept of work/life balance. How can small changes make a big difference? Welcome to the Big Balance Theory. Sponsored by Salad Skills.