Give Yourself The Chat!

What is Stoicism? Why is it on the rise? And what can we learn from this ancient philosophy that can help us as we navigate the challenges of modern life? These are just some of the areas I discuss as a newcomer to this topic with John Sellars, not only for my own understanding but also to encourage you to delve deeper into this most practical of philosophies. John is a Reader in Philosophy at Royal Holloway, University of London, a Visiting Research Fellow at King’s College London (where he is an Associate Editor for the Ancient Commentators on Aristotle project), and a member of Wolfson College, Oxford (where he was once a Junior Research Fellow).He is the author of The Art of Living: The Stoics on the Nature and Function of Philosophy (2003; 2nd edn 2009), Stoicism (2006), Hellenistic Philosophy (2018), Lessons in Stoicism (2019), and Marcus Aurelius (2020).He is one of the founder members (and currently Chair) of Modern Stoicism, the group behind Stoic Week and Stoicon.   http://johnsellars.org.uk

What is Stoicism? Why is it on the rise? And what can we learn from this ancient philosophy that can help us as we navigate the challenges of modern life? These are just some of the areas I discuss as a newcomer to this topic with John Sellars, not only for my own understanding but also to encourage you to delve deeper into this most practical of philosophies. John is a Reader in Philosophy at Royal Holloway, University of London, a Visiting Research Fellow at King’s College London (where he is an Associate Editor for the Ancient Commentators on Aristotle project), and a member of Wolfson College, Oxford (where he was once a Junior Research Fellow).He is the author of The Art of Living: The Stoics on the Nature and Function of Philosophy (2003; 2nd edn 2009), Stoicism (2006), Hellenistic Philosophy (2018), Lessons in Stoicism (2019), and Marcus Aurelius (2020).He is one of the founder members (and currently Chair) of Modern Stoicism, the group behind Stoic Week and Stoicon. http://johnsellars.org.uk

This episode has been 28 years in the making and an opportunity to dig into what leadership really means in today’s complex and demanding environment. As fresh-faced Officer Cadets, Neil Jurd and I embarked on a lifelong journey of discovery and passion for leadership which we discuss in this episode; one of my favourites so far! A mix of military anecdote and contemporary thinking on leadership in the modern age, this episode is more than just two old chums having a catch up. Neil explains how his ideas and thoughts on leadership have been forged, honed and challenged by his experiences on operations and latterly as a coach and consultant to the public and private sectors. Leadership is a simple concept, but often poorly executed and it is Neil’s passion to spread best practice that has driven him to write his first book on the subject and in the hope that more people see leadership as a force for good, rather than self-interest. “Leadership. It’s about knowing where you’re going and connecting with people.”Neil Jurd Top Takeaways: Neil was fascinated with leadership and he has always had a type of leadership role. He believes leadership is a massive force to get things done and he believes in its power. With this curiosity, he finally decided to write a book about his thoughts and put pen to paper with all his findings in the subject of leadership.The most fundamental principle is knowing where you are going and taking people with you. If you know your purpose and are good to people, others will follow and want to be led by you. There needs to be an alignment of where you are going and what you are trying to achieve. You need to throw yourself into what you believe in because that passion will bring an excitement to the work. The passion will be more compelling, and people will be more connected to the work.In politics, you rarely see leadership being for the greater good. You often see selfishness, dominance, and manipulate in politics to be in charge. These styles of leadership will have an impact because people often mimic what they see. If they only see a toxic leader, they will be encouraged to act the same. Instead, you should try breaking the cycle and providing a leadership style that is for the greater good.The standard you walk past is the standard you accept. These deep moral values can shape you as a leader and this type of thinking can reveal what you accept in your moral values. It was all about how to react when things go wrong and taking time to think.Leadership is really just about understanding, revisiting, and applying the basics. It does not require a mastery or a strategic knowledge. Instead, it just about doing the basic things beautifully and wonderfully. You constantly revisit and relearn until you are a master of the basics. Leadership is not about higher knowledge, but instead digging deeper into the basic fundamentals to understand the core of it. Treat people well and know the basics; and repeat! Key Moments: [3:52] Neil’s British Citizenship Award.[5:14] Neil’s leadership book and why now?[7:35] How Neil’s beliefs on leadership have evolved.      [11:21] Leadership in politics.    [17:05] The different styles of leading in training.[20:06] The standard you walk past is the standard you accept.    [24:35] Understanding people’s strengths and weaknesses as a leader.   [29:15] Neil’s two biggest leadership influences.[31:44] Mastery is not necessity, but understanding the basics is.   Neil Contact Information: http://neiljurd.com

This episode has been 28 years in the making and an opportunity to dig into what leadership really means in today’s complex and demanding environment. As fresh-faced Officer Cadets, Neil Jurd and I embarked on a lifelong journey of discovery and passion for leadership which we discuss in this episode; one of my favourites so far! A mix of military anecdote and contemporary thinking on leadership in the modern age, this episode is more than just two old chums having a catch up. Neil explains how his ideas and thoughts on leadership have been forged, honed and challenged by his experiences on operations and latterly as a coach and consultant to the public and private sectors. Leadership is a simple concept, but often poorly executed and it is Neil’s passion to spread best practice that has driven him to write his first book on the subject and in the hope that more people see leadership as a force for good, rather than self-interest. “Leadership. It’s about knowing where you’re going and connecting with people.”Neil Jurd Top Takeaways: Neil was fascinated with leadership and he has always had a type of leadership role. He believes leadership is a massive force to get things done and he believes in its power. With this curiosity, he finally decided to write a book about his thoughts and put pen to paper with all his findings in the subject of leadership.The most fundamental principle is knowing where you are going and taking people with you. If you know your purpose and are good to people, others will follow and want to be led by you. There needs to be an alignment of where you are going and what you are trying to achieve. You need to throw yourself into what you believe in because that passion will bring an excitement to the work. The passion will be more compelling, and people will be more connected to the work.In politics, you rarely see leadership being for the greater good. You often see selfishness, dominance, and manipulate in politics to be in charge. These styles of leadership will have an impact because people often mimic what they see. If they only see a toxic leader, they will be encouraged to act the same. Instead, you should try breaking the cycle and providing a leadership style that is for the greater good.The standard you walk past is the standard you accept. These deep moral values can shape you as a leader and this type of thinking can reveal what you accept in your moral values. It was all about how to react when things go wrong and taking time to think.Leadership is really just about understanding, revisiting, and applying the basics. It does not require a mastery or a strategic knowledge. Instead, it just about doing the basic things beautifully and wonderfully. You constantly revisit and relearn until you are a master of the basics. Leadership is not about higher knowledge, but instead digging deeper into the basic fundamentals to understand the core of it. Treat people well and know the basics; and repeat! Key Moments: [3:52] Neil’s British Citizenship Award.[5:14] Neil’s leadership book and why now?[7:35] How Neil’s beliefs on leadership have evolved. [11:21] Leadership in politics. [17:05] The different styles of leading in training.[20:06] The standard you walk past is the standard you accept. [24:35] Understanding people’s strengths and weaknesses as a leader. [29:15] Neil’s two biggest leadership influences.[31:44] Mastery is not necessity, but understanding the basics is. Neil Contact Information: http://neiljurd.com

What is at the true heart of leadership and why do we need to take back the term? In this week’s episode, Chance Stewart, adjunct professor and speaker, dives into the world of Servant Leadership, what a true leader looks like, and what defines a good leader versus someone with positional power. Chance explains how leadership has played a role in his life and describes how he found leadership in his life, and what defines it from a moral and personal perspective. A subject that can be as divisive as much as it unifies, there is a sense that what it means to be a leader has been lost somehow and now is the time for individuals to re-connect with the term and lead with love and service in mind. Listen in to discover the hard questions you should be asking yourself to see how you could be a better leader and how to benefit the world around you. “Authority and power are the antithesis of leadership because if that is what you are relying on that means you’ve lost the battle.”Chance Stewart Top Takeaways: Chance explains that leadership is not about making others do what you want. Instead, it is about making the choice to figure out what you can do, what steps you can make to create change and benefit others around you. What do you choose to do?Leadership is not necessary following a series of boxes or checking off a list. It is about showing the world your best self and being the best version of yourself. How is the world going to be better because you were around? What is the world going to say about you the last time they say your name?Leadership is something that happens when you’re not around!A position of power does not determine someone’s leadership because if you rely on your authority to have leadership than you are missing the point. Leadership is how you live your life and treat others instead of the title you have.Chance came to the realization that leadership to him was treating people with love and respect. He always felt his leadership role, but it was not necessarily apparent in his life. Sometimes finding where you need to go means opening your mind up to who you have been the whole time even if it is not obvious at first.A definition of leadership is not always clear, but when a leader walks in a room we feel their presence. Servant leadership is not about being soft, but the question should be how are we taking care of people first? Servant leadership should be the decision to serve first.Leaders eat last. When you make sure people are taken care of first, you are putting your best version of yourself forward. When you put others first, they will then look after you as well. This type of love feeds off of one another and it’s not about one single person. Instead, it is about the team and how they take care of one another. Leadership is controlling what you can control, be the best version of what you can do, and it creates one more person who is doing right by others. What kind of person do you want to be? Am I going to be a person of love? What kind of hard decisions are you going to make? The hard thing to do is doing the right thing when everyone is looking, but no one else is prepared to.Leadership is not about being perfect, but it is about being the best you can be to serve others. Leadership is not always about knowing the way or being perfect or having all the knowledge. Instead, it is about being vulnerable, admitting mistakes, and finding the way together. Key Moments: [2:32] Why leadership is a choice.[6:10] Leadership as a way of life.[9:34] Leadership is not a position of power.     [12:35] Chance’s experience with leadership.  [18:16] Servant leadership  [23:08] Leaders eat last.   [26:49] Leadership is a choice, and you can only control yourself.  [30:28] Leadership is not about knowing the way but about finding the way together.[33:36] Language is symbology. Chance Contact Information: https://www.chancedstewart.com

What is at the true heart of leadership and why do we need to take back the term? In this week’s episode, Chance Stewart, adjunct professor and speaker, dives into the world of Servant Leadership, what a true leader looks like, and what defines a good leader versus someone with positional power. Chance explains how leadership has played a role in his life and describes how he found leadership in his life, and what defines it from a moral and personal perspective. A subject that can be as divisive as much as it unifies, there is a sense that what it means to be a leader has been lost somehow and now is the time for individuals to re-connect with the term and lead with love and service in mind. Listen in to discover the hard questions you should be asking yourself to see how you could be a better leader and how to benefit the world around you. “Authority and power are the antithesis of leadership because if that is what you are relying on that means you’ve lost the battle.”Chance Stewart Top Takeaways: Chance explains that leadership is not about making others do what you want. Instead, it is about making the choice to figure out what you can do, what steps you can make to create change and benefit others around you. What do you choose to do?Leadership is not necessary following a series of boxes or checking off a list. It is about showing the world your best self and being the best version of yourself. How is the world going to be better because you were around? What is the world going to say about you the last time they say your name?Leadership is something that happens when you’re not around!A position of power does not determine someone’s leadership because if you rely on your authority to have leadership than you are missing the point. Leadership is how you live your life and treat others instead of the title you have.Chance came to the realization that leadership to him was treating people with love and respect. He always felt his leadership role, but it was not necessarily apparent in his life. Sometimes finding where you need to go means opening your mind up to who you have been the whole time even if it is not obvious at first.A definition of leadership is not always clear, but when a leader walks in a room we feel their presence. Servant leadership is not about being soft, but the question should be how are we taking care of people first? Servant leadership should be the decision to serve first.Leaders eat last. When you make sure people are taken care of first, you are putting your best version of yourself forward. When you put others first, they will then look after you as well. This type of love feeds off of one another and it’s not about one single person. Instead, it is about the team and how they take care of one another. Leadership is controlling what you can control, be the best version of what you can do, and it creates one more person who is doing right by others. What kind of person do you want to be? Am I going to be a person of love? What kind of hard decisions are you going to make? The hard thing to do is doing the right thing when everyone is looking, but no one else is prepared to.Leadership is not about being perfect, but it is about being the best you can be to serve others. Leadership is not always about knowing the way or being perfect or having all the knowledge. Instead, it is about being vulnerable, admitting mistakes, and finding the way together. Key Moments: [2:32] Why leadership is a choice.[6:10] Leadership as a way of life.[9:34] Leadership is not a position of power. [12:35] Chance’s experience with leadership. [18:16] Servant leadership [23:08] Leaders eat last. [26:49] Leadership is a choice, and you can only control yourself. [30:28] Leadership is not about knowing the way but about finding the way together.[33:36] Language is symbology. Chance Contact Information: https://www.chancedstewart.com Instagram @chance_stewart Twitter @ChanceDStewart

Matt Mills is a speaker, trainer, and professional running and leadership coach, who coaches runners and leaders who are ready to take bold action for major change in their life, and are eager to accomplish their top running and self-leadership goals. As a former Hollywood executive turned coach, Matt focuses on helping runners stay committed to their top goals, and create results with great speed so that they can experience more mental and physical self-mastery, becoming more purposeful, powerful and passionate in their life – on their own terms. During the course of this interview we discuss what running and triathlon has taught us both. The highs and many lows experienced during races and ultimately how it has delivered key lessons in self-leadership and personal resilience. “Running serves a huge purpose beyond just racing.”Matt Mills Top Takeaways: Matt was always really focused in his coaching career on helping others who were stuck and could not meet their wanted goals in their lives. While he was training for one of his marathons, he decided to start posting on social media about how he used running to help himself with his goals and help him be better in life. That’s how ‘Coaching on the Run’ was born!Matt decided to apply the principles he learned in pushing himself during his runs, races, and marathons in other aspects of his life. How could he challenge himself? What steps can you take to be one step further? These questions applied to both his exercising and his career all while benefiting his mental health.Running is not just about taking care of yourself physically but also mentally and emotionally. Whether it’s running or walking, if you need to get away from family for a bit and get time to yourself running can be one of the easiest ways.Running is one of the greatest forms of self-leadership because you do not have to wait on anyone else. You can do it by yourself, you can accomplish it by yourself, and you do not have to wait for someone else’s permission. This can give you an immediate feeling of accomplishment and success that can benefit your well-being and self-esteem instantly.Matt explains how he reframed his outlook. When he runs in the morning, he frames his mind to remind him that it will help him feel ready for the day and accomplished before even taking a shower. When he runs in the afternoons or after work, he explains that he puts himself in the mindset of washing away his worries or struggles from that day. These two mindsets help him stay motivated no matter when he decides to go for a run.Matt and Peter both explain how during some of their early marathons, they both made the mistake of running too fast and keeping a pace that was too fast for the distance. In that experience, Matt learned the hard way that marathons require lots of preparation and you have to put in the work to get the end result that you want. Everyone can run a marathon if they are just willing to put in the work whether they enjoy running or not.It’s your mind that will get you through, not your body. Reframing your mind about running is vital to being successful when you hit your lowest point, and this applies to other areas in your life as well, not just running. You first want to visualize what you want to accomplish. How would you feel, or what do you want to do? It’s about reframing your mind to not just think about your run time but how you want to feel when you reach your goals.First thing to always thing about, what do you want to accomplish? You should always be thinking first about the person they want to become at the end of their goals, and this applies to both running and life. Then you should ask yourself some hard questions such as, what are your limiting beliefs? What is holding you back? Key Moments: [2:56] How Matt decided to combine running and leadership.[5:46] Matt explains how he uses the principles of running in other parts of his life.  [7:32] Mental health and well

Matt Mills is a speaker, trainer, and professional running and leadership coach, who coaches runners and leaders who are ready to take bold action for major change in their life, and are eager to accomplish their top running and self-leadership goals. As a former Hollywood executive turned coach, Matt focuses on helping runners stay committed to their top goals, and create results with great speed so that they can experience more mental and physical self-mastery, becoming more purposeful, powerful and passionate in their life – on their own terms. During the course of this interview we discuss what running and triathlon has taught us both. The highs and many lows experienced during races and ultimately how it has delivered key lessons in self-leadership and personal resilience. “Running serves a huge purpose beyond just racing.”Matt Mills Top Takeaways: Matt was always really focused in his coaching career on helping others who were stuck and could not meet their wanted goals in their lives. While he was training for one of his marathons, he decided to start posting on social media about how he used running to help himself with his goals and help him be better in life. That’s how ‘Coaching on the Run’ was born!Matt decided to apply the principles he learned in pushing himself during his runs, races, and marathons in other aspects of his life. How could he challenge himself? What steps can you take to be one step further? These questions applied to both his exercising and his career all while benefiting his mental health.Running is not just about taking care of yourself physically but also mentally and emotionally. Whether it’s running or walking, if you need to get away from family for a bit and get time to yourself running can be one of the easiest ways.Running is one of the greatest forms of self-leadership because you do not have to wait on anyone else. You can do it by yourself, you can accomplish it by yourself, and you do not have to wait for someone else’s permission. This can give you an immediate feeling of accomplishment and success that can benefit your well-being and self-esteem instantly.Matt explains how he reframed his outlook. When he runs in the morning, he frames his mind to remind him that it will help him feel ready for the day and accomplished before even taking a shower. When he runs in the afternoons or after work, he explains that he puts himself in the mindset of washing away his worries or struggles from that day. These two mindsets help him stay motivated no matter when he decides to go for a run.Matt and Peter both explain how during some of their early marathons, they both made the mistake of running too fast and keeping a pace that was too fast for the distance. In that experience, Matt learned the hard way that marathons require lots of preparation and you have to put in the work to get the end result that you want. Everyone can run a marathon if they are just willing to put in the work whether they enjoy running or not.It’s your mind that will get you through, not your body. Reframing your mind about running is vital to being successful when you hit your lowest point, and this applies to other areas in your life as well, not just running. You first want to visualize what you want to accomplish. How would you feel, or what do you want to do? It’s about reframing your mind to not just think about your run time but how you want to feel when you reach your goals.First thing to always thing about, what do you want to accomplish? You should always be thinking first about the person they want to become at the end of their goals, and this applies to both running and life. Then you should ask yourself some hard questions such as, what are your limiting beliefs? What is holding you back? Key Moments: [2:56] How Matt decided to combine running and leadership.[5:46] Matt explains how he uses the principles of running in other parts of his life. [7:32] Mental health and well-being during a pandemic. [9:28] How running can benefit you.[12:11] Reframing your mind about when to run.[13:54] The harsh realisations Peter and Matt have faced during marathons. [18:08] Visualize the end of the race.[19:40] Peter’s goals for running a race.[21:08] Matt explains how he prepares others for taking their next step in running longer races.[25:35] When events are cancelled during a pandemic, how to stay motivated to keep moving when the finish line no longer exists. Matt Contact Information: https://www.coachingontherun.com Instagram @coachingontherun Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mattmillscoaching/

Jamie Woodhouse, author, campaigner, vegan and Sentientist tackles two of the biggest questions in philosophy; what is real and what matters from a moral perspective? In this week’s episode, Jamie discusses at length Sentientism, how Jamie discovered it, his goals and his thoughts on how many people already practice Sentientism in small ways. Simply put, Sentientism is evidence, reason, and compassion for all beings; going beyond and further developing ideas grounded in atheism and humanism. Growing up in a traditionally religious household Jamie later discovered other religions and after much learning and researching, he came to the realisation that religion was more than likely man made. This eventually led him to finding a moral ground and evidence-based perspective in Sentientism. Listen in to discover how this new perspective could shape your worldview and provide ideas on how to look at the world from a different point of view. “And I think nearly everybody is compassionate, but we find it very easy to be compassionate with people that agree with us.”Jamie Woodhouse Top Takeaways: One of the biggest questions is what is real and should be believed? The other big question is what truly matters at the end of the day? By using evidence to find what is real, by using reason to determine what should be believed, and by using compassion to find what matters, Sentientism is the sum of reason, evidence, and compassion to answer these two important questions.The idea of suffering and of moral circles should not be limited to just humans. The moral circle should be widened.Peter and Jamie both have explored religion in their lives. However, they both discovered that they felt like there was a lack of evidence and a certain amount of belief or faith to be committed. Peter described how he could find more comfort and joy in what he could explain and see with his own eyes. Jamie then debunks the idea that atheism is cold, lonely, or dark, and he explains how he is comforted in his certainty.Jamie is in favour of total freedom of belief, but people should be able to respect one another’s differences without forcing a religion down someone’s throat. He explains that sometimes corrupt ethics or harm is being caused and that’s where modern society needs to re-evaluate their standings. A religion or belief is not bad, but warped teachings can create harm to others that should not be tolerated today.In religion, good and bad is often determined by the deity, but when people move away from religion there are two ways of thinking morally.Jamie explains that in Sentientism there is a moral baseline where suffering and pain is bad where flourishing and growth is good. He believes this can also be extended beyond humans, and that life is life. Life is good and pain is bad. Suffering is not just about physical pain and flourishing is not just about success. Emotions, life situations, relationships, and every aspect of your life can reveal suffering or flourishing in your world.There are many beliefs that posit a need to achieve this perfect ethical state as a worthwhile goal, but it is also a dangerous mindset. This is because almost everything we do causes harm to another. The idea of purity is not achievable, but that does not mean the idea is not worthy of trying. We should always be working to be better, but we need to be realistic and honest that we cannot attain perfection. Key Moments: [1:08] Definition of Sentientism.[2:32] Jamie’s path to finding Sentientism.[6:54] Peter discusses the ideas of religion and questioning different beliefs.   [11:16] Jamie explains people’s evidence in the cases of religion or their beliefs.  [14:41] The importance of respecting one another’s different beliefs.[18:00] The fundamentals of the moral clause in Sentientism.[26:44] Jamie gives ideas about the contradictions of being vegan yet giving dogs a meat-based diet. He also has some treat tips for those interested in g

Jamie Woodhouse, author, campaigner, vegan and Sentientist tackles two of the biggest questions in philosophy; what is real and what matters from a moral perspective? In this week’s episode, Jamie discusses at length Sentientism, how Jamie discovered it, his goals and his thoughts on how many people already practice Sentientism in small ways. Simply put, Sentientism is evidence, reason, and compassion for all beings; going beyond and further developing ideas grounded in atheism and humanism. Growing up in a traditionally religious household Jamie later discovered other religions and after much learning and researching, he came to the realisation that religion was more than likely man made. This eventually led him to finding a moral ground and evidence-based perspective in Sentientism. Listen in to discover how this new perspective could shape your worldview and provide ideas on how to look at the world from a different point of view. “And I think nearly everybody is compassionate, but we find it very easy to be compassionate with people that agree with us.”Jamie Woodhouse Top Takeaways: One of the biggest questions is what is real and should be believed? The other big question is what truly matters at the end of the day? By using evidence to find what is real, by using reason to determine what should be believed, and by using compassion to find what matters, Sentientism is the sum of reason, evidence, and compassion to answer these two important questions.The idea of suffering and of moral circles should not be limited to just humans. The moral circle should be widened.Peter and Jamie both have explored religion in their lives. However, they both discovered that they felt like there was a lack of evidence and a certain amount of belief or faith to be committed. Peter described how he could find more comfort and joy in what he could explain and see with his own eyes. Jamie then debunks the idea that atheism is cold, lonely, or dark, and he explains how he is comforted in his certainty.Jamie is in favour of total freedom of belief, but people should be able to respect one another’s differences without forcing a religion down someone’s throat. He explains that sometimes corrupt ethics or harm is being caused and that’s where modern society needs to re-evaluate their standings. A religion or belief is not bad, but warped teachings can create harm to others that should not be tolerated today.In religion, good and bad is often determined by the deity, but when people move away from religion there are two ways of thinking morally.Jamie explains that in Sentientism there is a moral baseline where suffering and pain is bad where flourishing and growth is good. He believes this can also be extended beyond humans, and that life is life. Life is good and pain is bad. Suffering is not just about physical pain and flourishing is not just about success. Emotions, life situations, relationships, and every aspect of your life can reveal suffering or flourishing in your world.There are many beliefs that posit a need to achieve this perfect ethical state as a worthwhile goal, but it is also a dangerous mindset. This is because almost everything we do causes harm to another. The idea of purity is not achievable, but that does not mean the idea is not worthy of trying. We should always be working to be better, but we need to be realistic and honest that we cannot attain perfection. Key Moments: [1:08] Definition of Sentientism.[2:32] Jamie’s path to finding Sentientism.[6:54] Peter discusses the ideas of religion and questioning different beliefs. [11:16] Jamie explains people’s evidence in the cases of religion or their beliefs. [14:41] The importance of respecting one another’s different beliefs.[18:00] The fundamentals of the moral clause in Sentientism.[26:44] Jamie gives ideas about the contradictions of being vegan yet giving dogs a meat-based diet. He also has some treat tips for those interested in giving their dog a more vegan based diet.[30:54] Peter explains how differences should be respected not shamed.[33:28] Jamie tells Peter what is next for the Sentientism movement. Jamie Contact Information: https://jamiewoodhouse.com

Levison Wood is a best-selling author and photographer who has worked and travelled in over a hundred countries and has written seven best-selling books. He has produced six critically acclaimed documentaries which have aired around the world. A former paratrooper and Army officer, in this episode Levison and Peter will discuss what he’s doing during this pandemic, his travels, his inspiration behind his career, and what projects he’s been working on. Levison explores the importance of resilience in all its forms and explains how his perspective keeps him grounded, how his charity work began during his explorations and gives a sneak peek and summaries of the latest books he’s been working on. Finally, there will be several in depth discussions about some of the craziest explorations he’s been on, and some curious quotes that still hold merit in today’s pandemic-stricken era. Listen in to discover all this fascinating explorer has to offer and get inspiration to push yourself to doing more within a mindset of ‘grateful perspective’.   “Yes there’s a conflict that’s affecting however many thousand people, but actually, most people are just trying to get on with their lives.”Levison Wood Top Takeaways: While travel is ceased, Levison has published a new book called Encounters: A Photographic Journey where he went through 50,000 photos to choose 150 to put in a coffee table book. He describes it has an image journey of the last ten years of his life. His book is currently available for pre-order and discusses human communities around the world.Levison always wanted to see the world after growing up in a small village, and his natural curiosity drove him to want to see the world. He wanted to turn all his passions and interests into a way of life, so he could travel, document, and be creative. He soon found importance and power in his images and discovered he could make a difference with his work that lead to his charity work. For the past decade, he’s worked hard to team with charity organizations to benefit others.When choosing his adventures, he makes his decision as part of a personal connection. This could mean watching something on the news that strikes a chord with him, having a previous encounter with someone from that city, or a former visit that makes him curious to see how things have changed.His explorations are not ‘made for TV’. One of his biggest challenges is finding ways to go to places that others might consider too dangerous and he often does not have all or any of the permissions required to explore these areas. These are journeys to places that are forgotten about or unheard of.Levison gives some examples of personal resilience in an extreme way and how to relate it to others in a practical, everyday sense. Showing how we can survive through different types of situations, balancing risk and developing fortitude. To keep him grounded on his travels, Levison explains how he keeps a grateful outlook on his perspective. This allows him to be thankful for where he’s at in life and remembering that he is blessed for the life he gets to live when others are suffering. Key Moments: [0:36] Levison talks about how he’s doing during the pandemic and his new pandemic puppy.[2:46] Levison describes his latest projects and book that he’s been working to keep work going.    [4:22] His inspiration behind becoming an explorer and how his curiosity drove him.  [7:54] He explains how he chooses his adventures.[9:39] Levison gives details about how he gets permission to go to different places that could be dangerous in some cases.  [11:26] He talks about some of the craziest moments he’s endured.[14:23] He’s working on a book called The Art of Exploration where he can finally talk about some of the questions he’s been asked in order to help people in their everyday lives.[18:43] Peter and Levison discuss different perceptions of risk and how one can still have hope.[23:14]

Levison Wood is a best-selling author and photographer who has worked and travelled in over a hundred countries and has written seven best-selling books. He has produced six critically acclaimed documentaries which have aired around the world. A former paratrooper and Army officer, in this episode Levison and Peter will discuss what he’s doing during this pandemic, his travels, his inspiration behind his career, and what projects he’s been working on. Levison explores the importance of resilience in all its forms and explains how his perspective keeps him grounded, how his charity work began during his explorations and gives a sneak peek and summaries of the latest books he’s been working on. Finally, there will be several in depth discussions about some of the craziest explorations he’s been on, and some curious quotes that still hold merit in today’s pandemic-stricken era. Listen in to discover all this fascinating explorer has to offer and get inspiration to push yourself to doing more within a mindset of ‘grateful perspective’. “Yes there’s a conflict that’s affecting however many thousand people, but actually, most people are just trying to get on with their lives.”Levison Wood Top Takeaways: While travel is ceased, Levison has published a new book called Encounters: A Photographic Journey where he went through 50,000 photos to choose 150 to put in a coffee table book. He describes it has an image journey of the last ten years of his life. His book is currently available for pre-order and discusses human communities around the world.Levison always wanted to see the world after growing up in a small village, and his natural curiosity drove him to want to see the world. He wanted to turn all his passions and interests into a way of life, so he could travel, document, and be creative. He soon found importance and power in his images and discovered he could make a difference with his work that lead to his charity work. For the past decade, he’s worked hard to team with charity organizations to benefit others.When choosing his adventures, he makes his decision as part of a personal connection. This could mean watching something on the news that strikes a chord with him, having a previous encounter with someone from that city, or a former visit that makes him curious to see how things have changed.His explorations are not ‘made for TV’. One of his biggest challenges is finding ways to go to places that others might consider too dangerous and he often does not have all or any of the permissions required to explore these areas. These are journeys to places that are forgotten about or unheard of.Levison gives some examples of personal resilience in an extreme way and how to relate it to others in a practical, everyday sense. Showing how we can survive through different types of situations, balancing risk and developing fortitude. To keep him grounded on his travels, Levison explains how he keeps a grateful outlook on his perspective. This allows him to be thankful for where he’s at in life and remembering that he is blessed for the life he gets to live when others are suffering. Key Moments: [0:36] Levison talks about how he’s doing during the pandemic and his new pandemic puppy.[2:46] Levison describes his latest projects and book that he’s been working to keep work going. [4:22] His inspiration behind becoming an explorer and how his curiosity drove him. [7:54] He explains how he chooses his adventures.[9:39] Levison gives details about how he gets permission to go to different places that could be dangerous in some cases. [11:26] He talks about some of the craziest moments he’s endured.[14:23] He’s working on a book called The Art of Exploration where he can finally talk about some of the questions he’s been asked in order to help people in their everyday lives.[18:43] Peter and Levison discuss different perceptions of risk and how one can still have hope.[23:14] Levison explains the importance of a grateful perspective.[24:46] Levison talks about explorers that inspire him; past and present. Levison Contact Information: http://www.levisonwood.com

Having been tipped for a great career in professional football at a very early age, Drewe Broughton, high performance coach, author and public speaker talks openly and honestly about the career that promised so much but ended up leaving him homeless, addicted and alone. In this episode, Drewe discusses the mission he is on to help players deal with the pressure of professional sport and how to access their peak state when they need it most. Learning how to harness the energy surrounding fear and acknowledging that experiencing pain and suffering can often be our greatest teachers, Drewe is all about changing attitudes and methods of getting the best out of sporting and professional talent. Listen in to discover how you can use your struggle to push you to your full potential and see the world around you in a new light. “I just think advice can be quite sick if someone is not super emotionally aware.” Drewe Broughton Top Takeaways: Peter and Drewe discuss for the first few minutes about the importance of getting up early, taking time for yourself, and getting things done before the madness of the day begins. This is guaranteed time to yourself each day and it is a benefit to your soul.Drewe is open about the fact that he was constantly soul searching, and he realized that it hurt his career. He knows now he was a good player, but he was constantly trying lots of different tools to bring back the great player he once was.When you live off of sensitivity and drive, there often comes a natural fear to be the best, do the best, don’t make mistakes, and don’t disappoint. Drewe explains how fear has governed him and others in the football world. This fear includes being affected by family and additional pressure from coaches.One of the easiest things to do is give “advice” and thinking you’re helping people. However, it could actually be you projecting your own problems and issues onto others instead of dealing with your own issues. The best advice is to be self-aware and work on self-growth.Drewe explains how he believes there is something greater than humanity out there, and he discovered this by needing to surrender and be powerless. In one of his games, he had to let go in order to succeed, and that helped him realise the need for a spiritual aspect to his life.People need pain in their lives because life can drag you down and can be brutal. The idea of pain is not about brutality but instead about learning to suffer. When you learn how much you can suffer, you learn how much you can endure and that allows you to push yourself through the hardest of times.The difference between a good player and a great player can be as simple as having the courage to get back out there again and again. Fear can consume, but it does not have to. Key Moments: [0:34] Peter and Drewe discuss the need to wake up early and spend time on themselves.  [3:16] Drewe describes his football career and what he learned about himself in realising that he was constantly soul searching.   [6:49] Driven and sensitivity can work hand in hand, but it is difficult to find the balance. Fear often governs instead.[13:30] How advice can actually be hurting others unless you’re very self-aware.[16:21] Drewe discusses what he discovered in his spiritual journey.[24:23] Why pain is the ultimate influencer and why we need to experience it.[32:04] Drewe discusses his latest project to help the players he coaches. Drewe Contact Information: Website: https://www.drewebroughton.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewe-broughton/

Having been tipped for a great career in professional football at a very early age, Drewe Broughton, high performance coach, author and public speaker talks openly and honestly about the career that promised so much but ended up leaving him homeless, addicted and alone. In this episode, Drewe discusses the mission he is on to help players deal with the pressure of professional sport and how to access their peak state when they need it most. Learning how to harness the energy surrounding fear and acknowledging that experiencing pain and suffering can often be our greatest teachers, Drewe is all about changing attitudes and methods of getting the best out of sporting and professional talent. Listen in to discover how you can use your struggle to push you to your full potential and see the world around you in a new light. “I just think advice can be quite sick if someone is not super emotionally aware.” Drewe Broughton Top Takeaways: Peter and Drewe discuss for the first few minutes about the importance of getting up early, taking time for yourself, and getting things done before the madness of the day begins. This is guaranteed time to yourself each day and it is a benefit to your soul.Drewe is open about the fact that he was constantly soul searching, and he realized that it hurt his career. He knows now he was a good player, but he was constantly trying lots of different tools to bring back the great player he once was.When you live off of sensitivity and drive, there often comes a natural fear to be the best, do the best, don’t make mistakes, and don’t disappoint. Drewe explains how fear has governed him and others in the football world. This fear includes being affected by family and additional pressure from coaches.One of the easiest things to do is give “advice” and thinking you’re helping people. However, it could actually be you projecting your own problems and issues onto others instead of dealing with your own issues. The best advice is to be self-aware and work on self-growth.Drewe explains how he believes there is something greater than humanity out there, and he discovered this by needing to surrender and be powerless. In one of his games, he had to let go in order to succeed, and that helped him realise the need for a spiritual aspect to his life.People need pain in their lives because life can drag you down and can be brutal. The idea of pain is not about brutality but instead about learning to suffer. When you learn how much you can suffer, you learn how much you can endure and that allows you to push yourself through the hardest of times.The difference between a good player and a great player can be as simple as having the courage to get back out there again and again. Fear can consume, but it does not have to. Key Moments: [0:34] Peter and Drewe discuss the need to wake up early and spend time on themselves.  [3:16] Drewe describes his football career and what he learned about himself in realising that he was constantly soul searching.   [6:49] Driven and sensitivity can work hand in hand, but it is difficult to find the balance. Fear often governs instead.[13:30] How advice can actually be hurting others unless you’re very self-aware.[16:21] Drewe discusses what he discovered in his spiritual journey.[24:23] Why pain is the ultimate influencer and why we need to experience it.[32:04] Drewe discusses his latest project to help the players he coaches. Drewe Contact Information: Website: https://www.drewebroughton.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewe-broughton/

In this episode Arna dives into the importance of inner work and finding your identity in the world. Coach and member of Tony Robbins’ UPW crew, Arna grew up being labelled due to her parent’s background and had difficulty finding a place where she belonged. After finding the perfect word to describe herself, she decided to use it for her brand for her business. She now coaches’ others in business, and she helps others grow to their fullest potential.  Arna also elaborates on how working on herself has challenged her most in the past year, including a life lesson about how cracking her phone screen taught her we can often be too hard on ourselves! Listen in to discover what you could be doing in life to make your personal and work life better through automation, self-love, and change. “…because there is so much to offer when you open your eyes. When you allow opportunity to come, you actually see so much more.”  –Arna Van Goch Top Takeaways: Due to growing up in various cultures, Arna struggled to find her own identity and felt labelled for many years. Her quarter life crisis was giving her identity the name of “Dutchanese” and embracing her true self.Arna, like many of us, struggled during the pandemic and greatly missed travelling every few weeks. However, the Tony Robbins’ virtual event helped her feel alive again and get her excitement back.One easy way to make life easier is to create a schedule for your social media, meals, and more to stop wasting time making decisions. This can be as simple as time blocking your days to know what to work on at what time. “Routine sets you free.”One of the most common mistakes in the business world is staying in the comfort zone instead of changing and evolving to grow. This includes outsourcing some of your work to know what you should and should not be doing to serve your business the best.Inner work requires self-evaluation. This means digging deep enough within yourself to learn self-love and forgiveness. It is okay to fix what is broken instead of feeling like a victim your whole life. It is just as important to help yourself as it is to help others.Life is constantly happening around us, so we shouldn’t be obsessed with always reaching a deadline. We should be trying to be more present in the moment and find ways to take time for ourselves.Life should be celebrated more. We can create more laughter, joy, and excitement in the workplace as well as our lives.Pick a lane and go for it. You should try different things and keep at it until you find where you’re meant to be. Key Moments: [1:22] Arna discusses what it means to be “Dutchanese” and how she discovered her identity through creating something new after years of being labeled.[6:59] How Arna handled the pandemic and how she got involved with the Tony Robbins’ virtual event. [12:37] How can we use technology effectively to create intimate experiences for others, even clients, to better ourselves and each other?[14:11] How to stop wasting time making decisions and create more routine in your daily lifestyle.  [19:46] What patterns are common in the business world that can hold someone back from their full potential.  [22:37] The importance of inner work. [29:38] How the need for events and finish lines can be putting unnecessary pressure on you.[33:34] Final speed round questions for Arna. Arna Contact Information: https://www.beingdutchanese.com Instagram: @beingdutchanese Twitter: @beingdutchanese Facebook: Arna Van Goch

In this episode Arna dives into the importance of inner work and finding your identity in the world. Coach and member of Tony Robbins’ UPW crew, Arna grew up being labelled due to her parent’s background and had difficulty finding a place where she belonged. After finding the perfect word to describe herself, she decided to use it for her brand for her business. She now coaches’ others in business, and she helps others grow to their fullest potential.  Arna also elaborates on how working on herself has challenged her most in the past year, including a life lesson about how cracking her phone screen taught her we can often be too hard on ourselves! Listen in to discover what you could be doing in life to make your personal and work life better through automation, self-love, and change. “…because there is so much to offer when you open your eyes. When you allow opportunity to come, you actually see so much more.” –Arna Van Goch Top Takeaways: Due to growing up in various cultures, Arna struggled to find her own identity and felt labelled for many years. Her quarter life crisis was giving her identity the name of “Dutchanese” and embracing her true self.Arna, like many of us, struggled during the pandemic and greatly missed travelling every few weeks. However, the Tony Robbins’ virtual event helped her feel alive again and get her excitement back.One easy way to make life easier is to create a schedule for your social media, meals, and more to stop wasting time making decisions. This can be as simple as time blocking your days to know what to work on at what time. “Routine sets you free.”One of the most common mistakes in the business world is staying in the comfort zone instead of changing and evolving to grow. This includes outsourcing some of your work to know what you should and should not be doing to serve your business the best.Inner work requires self-evaluation. This means digging deep enough within yourself to learn self-love and forgiveness. It is okay to fix what is broken instead of feeling like a victim your whole life. It is just as important to help yourself as it is to help others.Life is constantly happening around us, so we shouldn’t be obsessed with always reaching a deadline. We should be trying to be more present in the moment and find ways to take time for ourselves.Life should be celebrated more. We can create more laughter, joy, and excitement in the workplace as well as our lives.Pick a lane and go for it. You should try different things and keep at it until you find where you’re meant to be. Key Moments: [1:22] Arna discusses what it means to be “Dutchanese” and how she discovered her identity through creating something new after years of being labeled.[6:59] How Arna handled the pandemic and how she got involved with the Tony Robbins’ virtual event. [12:37] How can we use technology effectively to create intimate experiences for others, even clients, to better ourselves and each other?[14:11] How to stop wasting time making decisions and create more routine in your daily lifestyle.  [19:46] What patterns are common in the business world that can hold someone back from their full potential.  [22:37] The importance of inner work. [29:38] How the need for events and finish lines can be putting unnecessary pressure on you.[33:34] Final speed round questions for Arna. Arna Contact Information: https://www.beingdutchanese.com Instagram: @beingdutchanese Twitter: @beingdutchanese Facebook: Arna Van Goch

Beth Miller, accidental entrepreneur, leadership coach and experienced executive gives her view on a wide range of subjects that speak to being the best version of yourself, despite what challenges lay before you. In this episode we explore handling disappointment, living a life of gratitude and how leaders can handle the pressure and loneliness of their position. Several themes that resonate through out this podcast show are explored in more detail and in particular emotional intelligence and resilience and the responsibilities leaders have to be vulnerable with their teams. Closing out on the subject of hiring great people, we discuss the challenge of the ‘Peter Principle’ and how to best prepare not only the individual for greater responsibility but how to grow great teams in the process.

Beth Miller, accidental entrepreneur, leadership coach and experienced executive gives her view on a wide range of subjects that speak to being the best version of yourself, despite what challenges lay before you. In this episode we explore handling disappointment, living a life of gratitude and how leaders can handle the pressure and loneliness of their position. Several themes that resonate through out this podcast show are explored in more detail and in particular emotional intelligence and resilience and the responsibilities leaders have to be vulnerable with their teams. Closing out on the subject of hiring great people, we discuss the challenge of the ‘Peter Principle’ and how to best prepare not only the individual for greater responsibility but how to grow great teams in the process.

With Stoicism on the rise and accelerating in popularity during pandemic, in this episode we explore its attraction to various sub-groups and in particular the military community. What is it about this ancient philosophy that resonates so deeply with so those who serve their country? What parallels can be drawn between the military code and Stoic virtues? Author and therapist Donald Robertson shares his thoughts on this most practical of philosophies and how its most famous and powerful proponent, Marcus Aurelius, dealt with the myriad challenges of life in ancient Rome and the frontiers. During this episode we delve into the examples of Socrates, Marcus Aurelius, James Stockdale and the US Marine Corps amongst many others. Donald is also author of many books and his latest work ‘How to Think Like a Roman Emperor – The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius’ is available now.

With Stoicism on the rise and accelerating in popularity during pandemic, in this episode we explore its attraction to various sub-groups and in particular the military community. What is it about this ancient philosophy that resonates so deeply with so those who serve their country? What parallels can be drawn between the military code and Stoic virtues? Author and therapist Donald Robertson shares his thoughts on this most practical of philosophies and how its most famous and powerful proponent, Marcus Aurelius, dealt with the myriad challenges of life in ancient Rome and the frontiers. During this episode we delve into the examples of Socrates, Marcus Aurelius, James Stockdale and the US Marine Corps amongst many others. Donald is also author of many books and his latest work ‘How to Think Like a Roman Emperor – The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius’ is available now.

What do you do when you lose the ability to walk pretty much overnight? How would you cope with the shock of your own body attacking you, causing the life and world you knew to come crashing in? This was the situation facing Lee Chambers, functional life coach, psychologist and student of ancient wisdom. In this episode we go deep into how to deal with life’s crucible moments and how developing your mind as well as your body can lead to a life of choice, increased agency and ultimately fulfilment. In doing so we go beyond the platitudes and aphorisms of the usual self-help or coaching memes and break down the steps we can all go to tap into ideas and concepts that have been with us for over 2000 years. This is one for several listens, as it contains ideas and philosophies that force us to think about what is possible for us right now; and thankfully without having to suffer a debilitating disease to do so!

What do you do when you lose the ability to walk pretty much overnight? How would you cope with the shock of your own body attacking you, causing the life and world you knew to come crashing in? This was the situation facing Lee Chambers, functional life coach, psychologist and student of ancient wisdom. In this episode we go deep into how to deal with life’s crucible moments and how developing your mind as well as your body can lead to a life of choice, increased agency and ultimately fulfilment. In doing so we go beyond the platitudes and aphorisms of the usual self-help or coaching memes and break down the steps we can all go to tap into ideas and concepts that have been with us for over 2000 years. This is one for several listens, as it contains ideas and philosophies that force us to think about what is possible for us right now; and thankfully without having to suffer a debilitating disease to do so!

If you want to learn about leadership, become a parent! A little extreme perhaps, but raising kids often highlights all the lessons we can learn not only about how to lead others, but also creativity, personal relationships and the power of example. This podcast explores the learnings of serial entrepreneur and leader Bea Wray and how the greatest insights she ever had were not from her studies at Harvard or the multiple business ventures she’s been involved with, but much closer to home and in raising kids. In this episode we explore how to have effective meetings, the power of questions and developing and leveraging an attitude of gratitude. Bea’s latest book is due for release in early 2021 and is titled; “What An MBA Taught Me, But My Kids Made Me Learn!”

If you want to learn about leadership, become a parent! A little extreme perhaps, but raising kids often highlights all the lessons we can learn not only about how to lead others, but also creativity, personal relationships and the power of example. This podcast explores the learnings of serial entrepreneur and leader Bea Wray and how the greatest insights she ever had were not from her studies at Harvard or the multiple business ventures she’s been involved with, but much closer to home and in raising kids. In this episode we explore how to have effective meetings, the power of questions and developing and leveraging an attitude of gratitude. Bea’s latest book is due for release in early 2021 and is titled; “What An MBA Taught Me, But My Kids Made Me Learn!”

What happens when the lies we tell ourselves go unchecked? Are we any better than a prisoner who convinces themselves that the crime they committed was justified? What crises do we need to wake up to ourselves and finally live our authentic, best self? These are just some of the questions I discuss with fellow coach, student of Stoicism and former parole officer Dan Munro. In doing so we explore what this means for leadership of self and others and how being truthful, exposing our vulnerabilities and going beyond the ‘front door problem’ is actually the height of courage and the route to rallying people to our cause or mission. A slightly longer episode than normal but one which strips back the fundamental aspects of living a life of meaning and dealing with the root of successful personal change and high performance.

What happens when the lies we tell ourselves go unchecked? Are we any better than a prisoner who convinces themselves that the crime they committed was justified? What crises do we need to wake up to ourselves and finally live our authentic, best self? These are just some of the questions I discuss with fellow coach, student of Stoicism and former parole officer Dan Munro. In doing so we explore what this means for leadership of self and others and how being truthful, exposing our vulnerabilities and going beyond the ‘front door problem’ is actually the height of courage and the route to rallying people to our cause or mission. A slightly longer episode than normal but one which strips back the fundamental aspects of living a life of meaning and dealing with the root of successful personal change and high performance.

How can two blokes who served in the same Corps in the British Army, at the same time and holding the same rank connect more as civilians than we ever did as soldiers? It’s a funny old world. This is a very candid and honest episode, where Rob Shenton, mental fitness advocate, Help 4 Heroes ambassador and ultra marathon runner speaks openly about his struggles with recurring depression and his mission to help others find their way through the dark cloud. Amongst many subjects, we explore ultra running, depression, the joys of singing and the time that Rob had the opportunity to record a song with Jon Bon Jovi at Abbey Road. Not your average podcast episode this one!

How can two blokes who served in the same Corps in the British Army, at the same time and holding the same rank connect more as civilians than we ever did as soldiers? It’s a funny old world. This is a very candid and honest episode, where Rob Shenton, mental fitness advocate, Help 4 Heroes ambassador and ultra marathon runner speaks openly about his struggles with recurring depression and his mission to help others find their way through the dark cloud. Amongst many subjects, we explore ultra running, depression, the joys of singing and the time that Rob had the opportunity to record a song with Jon Bon Jovi at Abbey Road. Not your average podcast episode this one!

In this episode we jump straight to the end, or nearly. Mark Smith was dead for a few minutes before he was revived and went onto thrive as a competitive bodybuilder, strongman and latterly footballer. Standing in front of an audience in nothing but your Speedos takes some doing, but when you understand that it was all part of Mark’s recovery from a freak accident, it becomes a powerful metaphor for change and courage. Mark describes the circumstances around the accident in vivid, often humorous detail and the struggles he has conquered as an amputee since. This is an honest and emotional account of his journey to recovery and the people that have made it possible. But what next for this incredible person? Well, with a story like his and a mission to serve as many people as possible, adding the title of published author seems like the logical next step for this man who is now conquering every challenge put his way!

In this episode we jump straight to the end, or nearly. Mark Smith was dead for a few minutes before he was revived and went onto thrive as a competitive bodybuilder, strongman and latterly footballer. Standing in front of an audience in nothing but your Speedos takes some doing, but when you understand that it was all part of Mark’s recovery from a freak accident, it becomes a powerful metaphor for change and courage. Mark describes the circumstances around the accident in vivid, often humorous detail and the struggles he has conquered as an amputee since. This is an honest and emotional account of his journey to recovery and the people that have made it possible. But what next for this incredible person? Well, with a story like his and a mission to serve as many people as possible, adding the title of published author seems like the logical next step for this man who is now conquering every challenge put his way!

Reflecting on a lifetime of leadership, Ryan Ramsey, ex-submariner, corporate leader and consultant takes us through what it is to lead in today’s pandemic and beyond. Not unlike being submerged for extended periods of time, the parallels between good leadership onboard a nuclear submarine and today’s complex business environment may surprise you. In this episode, we discuss the simple principles that are the hallmark of great leadership at any level. Constantly learning and reflecting on his experience, Ryan also discusses his thoughts from 24 years as a Submariner that he has taken forward into his work on oil rigs, National Rail and latterly as a business consultant. We consider the loneliness of command; how to identify those that will make the grade for submarine command and how to manage the inner game of high performance during stressful situations. If you’re fascinated by the complexities of leadership and want an idea of how to boil it down to its fundamentals, this episode will give you much to think about!

Reflecting on a lifetime of leadership, Ryan Ramsey, ex-submariner, corporate leader and consultant takes us through what it is to lead in today’s pandemic and beyond. Not unlike being submerged for extended periods of time, the parallels between good leadership onboard a nuclear submarine and today’s complex business environment may surprise you. In this episode, we discuss the simple principles that are the hallmark of great leadership at any level. Constantly learning and reflecting on his experience, Ryan also discusses his thoughts from 24 years as a Submariner that he has taken forward into his work on oil rigs, National Rail and latterly as a business consultant. We consider the loneliness of command; how to identify those that will make the grade for submarine command and how to manage the inner game of high performance during stressful situations. If you’re fascinated by the complexities of leadership and want an idea of how to boil it down to its fundamentals, this episode will give you much to think about!

If there’s any guarantee as you launch yourself into a bobsleigh with your brake man it’s that one way or another you’re going to make it to the end! Hurtling down the icy track at speeds that would get you a fine on a UK motorway takes 100% commitment, focus and nerve. Something that this episode’s guest has in spades. Sergeant Adam Baird of the Royal Marines joins me to discuss his ambitions for making the Great Britain 2-Man bobsleigh team for the 2022 Beijing and 2026 Milan Olympic games. Splitting his training between his home gym and the facilities at Bath University, the current pandemic has done nothing to help in his preparations. Coupled with having to raise money to fund his expenses and equipment costs, there’s a lot that stands in his way to realise his dream. But there’s no whinging or whining from this guest. Adam views these as mere obstacles in the way and as many top class athletes discover, he can only control the controllables! Committed, passionate and with a lifetime of sporting prowess behind him, I get the sense that no matter what the trials along the way, we’ll be cheering Adam on at the Olympics very soon!

If there’s any guarantee as you launch yourself into a bobsleigh with your brake man it’s that one way or another you’re going to make it to the end! Hurtling down the icy track at speeds that would get you a fine on a UK motorway takes 100% commitment, focus and nerve. Something that this episode’s guest has in spades. Sergeant Adam Baird of the Royal Marines joins me to discuss his ambitions for making the Great Britain 2-Man bobsleigh team for the 2022 Beijing and 2026 Milan Olympic games. Splitting his training between his home gym and the facilities at Bath University, the current pandemic has done nothing to help in his preparations. Coupled with having to raise money to fund his expenses and equipment costs, there’s a lot that stands in his way to realise his dream. But there’s no whinging or whining from this guest. Adam views these as mere obstacles in the way and as many top class athletes discover, he can only control the controllables! Committed, passionate and with a lifetime of sporting prowess behind him, I get the sense that no matter what the trials along the way, we’ll be cheering Adam on at the Olympics very soon!

Dave O’Brien is an entrepreneur, ultra-runner and professional engineer with a passion for adventure and testing himself to the limit. Dave and I met back in 1992 when we entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and then went on to complete our commando training with the Royal Marines. In this episode we explore why he is putting his energy (pardon the pun) into his new nutritional range whilst simultaneously holding down a day job and also the ways in which he squeezes every ounce of value from the 24 hours we are given. We also explore how preparing for the expected and in particular the hardships and obstacles that life can throw at us has allowed him to push the boundaries of what many would consider beyond them. A veteran of the Marathon de Sables, a multi-day endurance event over the Sahara Desert, Dave and I go pretty deep on the philosophical aspects of running and how endurance events are life in microcosm. Not bad for a couple of old sweats used to getting by on just a water bottle and a Mars bar!

Dave O’Brien is an entrepreneur, ultra-runner and professional engineer with a passion for adventure and testing himself to the limit. Dave and I met back in 1992 when we entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and then went on to complete our commando training with the Royal Marines. In this episode we explore why he is putting his energy (pardon the pun) into his new nutritional range whilst simultaneously holding down a day job and also the ways in which he squeezes every ounce of value from the 24 hours we are given. We also explore how preparing for the expected and in particular the hardships and obstacles that life can throw at us has allowed him to push the boundaries of what many would consider beyond them. A veteran of the Marathon de Sables, a multi-day endurance event over the Sahara Desert, Dave and I go pretty deep on the philosophical aspects of running and how endurance events are life in microcosm. Not bad for a couple of old sweats used to getting by on just a water bottle and a Mars bar!

What does an explorer, activist and would be astronaut do in lockdown? Turns out, pretty much like the rest of us really. Of all the challenges that Vijay Shah has undertaken in his life, raising a 10 month year old is probably right up there! In this episode we cover a diverse range of subjects including Vijay’s passion for addressing climate change through activism, exploring the world’s continents and just some of the challenges set as a candidate for the next european space mission. A rocket scientist by trade and free spirit by nature, Vijay views exploration as a mindset and not just about going on arduous journeys. Making it to the final 12 candidates to feature on the BBC series ‘Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes?’, we also get a glimpse into the qualities and skills required to make it onto the space program. Who knew that origami featured as one of them?!

What does an explorer, activist and would be astronaut do in lockdown? Turns out, pretty much like the rest of us really. Of all the challenges that Vijay Shah has undertaken in his life, raising a 10 month year old is probably right up there! In this episode we cover a diverse range of subjects including Vijay’s passion for addressing climate change through activism, exploring the world’s continents and just some of the challenges set as a candidate for the next european space mission. A rocket scientist by trade and free spirit by nature, Vijay views exploration as a mindset and not just about going on arduous journeys. Making it to the final 12 candidates to feature on the BBC series ‘Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes?’, we also get a glimpse into the qualities and skills required to make it onto the space program. Who knew that origami featured as one of them?!

Watford FC legend and ex-professional footballer Paul Robinson took time out to chat with me about a career that spanned 22 years, 5 football clubs, 3 caps for England U-21s and one goal of the season; which for a defender is some accolade! For me, this has been one of the highlight episodes so far. I’ve been a Watford FC fan for over 40 years now, so to spend time with such a servant of not only my club, but also professional football in general was a real treat. In this episode we talk about life in pandemic, how Paul handled the passions of the crowd during his career, mentors that have guided and been the greatest influence on him and also the pressure of the ‘Great Escape’ season with West Bromwich Albion. Fiercely competitive and brimming with passion for the sport and the future generations, there’s something for everyone in this episode, regardless of whether you’re a soccer fan or not!

Watford FC legend and ex-professional footballer Paul Robinson took time out to chat with me about a career that spanned 22 years, 5 football clubs, 3 caps for England U-21s and one goal of the season; which for a defender is some accolade! For me, this has been one of the highlight episodes so far. I’ve been a Watford FC fan for over 40 years now, so to spend time with such a servant of not only my club, but also professional football in general was a real treat. In this episode we talk about life in pandemic, how Paul handled the passions of the crowd during his career, mentors that have guided and been the greatest influence on him and also the pressure of the ‘Great Escape’ season with West Bromwich Albion. Fiercely competitive and brimming with passion for the sport and the future generations, there’s something for everyone in this episode, regardless of whether you’re a soccer fan or not!

Working 80+ hours a week whilst snatching only 3-4 hours sleep, fuelled by an insatiable desire to hit revenue targets is only going to end up one way – burnout! That’s what happened to this episode’s guest, Glenn Tranter. In 2006 Glenn suffered a mental shut-down. No longer able to cope with the demands he was placing on his body, he was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. As it turns out, giving a label to the condition may have helped on an intellectual level, but not necessarily helpful in combating the underlying cause of his condition; the relentless desire to win. Perhaps at all costs! Thankfully, and in part due to an enigmatic encounter with a Vietnamese monk, Glenn found a way out of his personal nadir to emerge as a coach now focused on helping others find ways to achieve their outcomes without the personal cost. In this episode we explore basketball, hustle, ego and mindfulness. Oh…and you’ll also find out what the monk said!

Working 80+ hours a week whilst snatching only 3-4 hours sleep, fuelled by an insatiable desire to hit revenue targets is only going to end up one way – burnout! That’s what happened to this episode’s guest, Glenn Tranter. In 2006 Glenn suffered a mental shut-down. No longer able to cope with the demands he was placing on his body, he was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. As it turns out, giving a label to the condition may have helped on an intellectual level, but not necessarily helpful in combating the underlying cause of his condition; the relentless desire to win. Perhaps at all costs! Thankfully, and in part due to an enigmatic encounter with a Vietnamese monk, Glenn found a way out of his personal nadir to emerge as a coach now focused on helping others find ways to achieve their outcomes without the personal cost. In this episode we explore basketball, hustle, ego and mindfulness. Oh…and you’ll also find out what the monk said!

There’s always a danger with inviting close personal friends onto your podcast that the pair of us would get lost in memories, experiences and ‘in’ jokes that the listener won’t get or care for. Thankfully, Mike Hogben and I avoid this trap and manage to chat just about anything and everything to do with life and philosophy! I first met Mike when we started out as cadets at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst some 28 years ago. We came from very different backgrounds and life experiences at that point and probably formed from the outside the most unlikely ‘couple’. As a soldier from the ranks, I taught Mike to iron his clothes and play the game in front of us in order to survive. Mike taught me how to think, how to challenge and also how to enjoy life and let go a little. Nearly 30 years on and we’re still learning from each other. Our conversations have got deeper, our experiences more varied and our connection stronger. In this episode we explore philosophy, stoicism, buddhism, submarines, skydiving, monotheist religions and Patrick Swayze!

There’s always a danger with inviting close personal friends onto your podcast that the pair of us would get lost in memories, experiences and ‘in’ jokes that the listener won’t get or care for. Thankfully, Mike Hogben and I avoid this trap and manage to chat just about anything and everything to do with life and philosophy! I first met Mike when we started out as cadets at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst some 28 years ago. We came from very different backgrounds and life experiences at that point and probably formed from the outside the most unlikely ‘couple’. As a soldier from the ranks, I taught Mike to iron his clothes and play the game in front of us in order to survive. Mike taught me how to think, how to challenge and also how to enjoy life and let go a little. Nearly 30 years on and we’re still learning from each other. Our conversations have got deeper, our experiences more varied and our connection stronger. In this episode we explore philosophy, stoicism, buddhism, submarines, skydiving, monotheist religions and Patrick Swayze!

Uttam (aka Silky) and I met by chance at an airport on our way to the USA. Brought together by the over-sized baggage we were travelling in, we struck up an unlikely friendship as the worlds of Ironman triathlon crossed paths with the music industry! Silky is a DJ, producer and composer from the UK and now living in Venice Beach, California and has established a sterling reputation as an artist through an impressive catalogue of releases and a long list of club and festival appearances. In this episode we talk about dolphins, surfing, life purpose and creativity. A veteran of the music industry and House music in particular, Silky has been mentored by some of the founders of house music, including Frankie Knuckles. His passion is unrelenting, his talent undeniable and his productions are consistently picking up positive feedback from a long list of influential tastemakers.

Uttam (aka Silky) and I met by chance at an airport on our way to the USA. Brought together by the over-sized baggage we were travelling in, we struck up an unlikely friendship as the worlds of Ironman triathlon crossed paths with the music industry! Silky is a DJ, producer and composer from the UK and now living in Venice Beach, California and has established a sterling reputation as an artist through an impressive catalogue of releases and a long list of club and festival appearances. In this episode we talk about dolphins, surfing, life purpose and creativity. A veteran of the music industry and House music in particular, Silky has been mentored by some of the founders of house music, including Frankie Knuckles. His passion is unrelenting, his talent undeniable and his productions are consistently picking up positive feedback from a long list of influential tastemakers.

Andrew wins the prize for being the guest who has ‘travelled’ the furthest to be on this podcast and finds himself stranded in Melbourne, Australia en route to his home in Bali; thanks to the Coronavirus. A mindset and performance coach and something of a ‘digital nomad’, Andrew helps executives and business owners be less stressed and achieve more. In this episode we explore the topics of fear, hustle culture and the ego. Delving into the esoteric and the scientific, Andrew presents a compelling way of looking at meditation and mindfulness through the practise of observation and a shift in consciousness; he teaches people how not to meditate! A straight talking, no nonsense kind of bloke, Andrew is someone I’ve never met in person, but if I can find a way of travelling to Bali to interview him again at one of his retreats, I’ll be sure to do so. Just got to figure out a way to convince the accountant!

Andrew wins the prize for being the guest who has ‘travelled’ the furthest to be on this podcast and finds himself stranded in Melbourne, Australia en route to his home in Bali; thanks to the Coronavirus. A mindset and performance coach and something of a ‘digital nomad’, Andrew helps executives and business owners be less stressed and achieve more. In this episode we explore the topics of fear, hustle culture and the ego. Delving into the esoteric and the scientific, Andrew presents a compelling way of looking at meditation and mindfulness through the practise of observation and a shift in consciousness; he teaches people how not to meditate! A straight talking, no nonsense kind of bloke, Andrew is someone I’ve never met in person, but if I can find a way of travelling to Bali to interview him again at one of his retreats, I’ll be sure to do so. Just got to figure out a way to convince the accountant!

This episode is more than just your average discussion on setting goals and having a positive mindset. This one blows the roof on what is possible if you set your mind to it and have a strong enough ‘why?’ Introduced to each other through social media, Kate discusses her life, it’s traumatic events and how being defined by other’s expectations of her was never going to be a healthy route to take. Likening her awakening to the advice you get from the doctor telling you something has to change, Kate gave herself the ‘life chat’ and decided to take 100% responsibility and charge full steam ahead with her mission and passions. Not one to shy away from a challenge, Kate has been an age-group world champion at triathlon, but her next event is going to be a world’s first. Not your standard swim, bike and run. Not even multiple Ironman races. This one is the biggie! A swim of the English Channel; a bike from coast to coast in the USA; and the ‘run’ a summit of Everest!

This episode is more than just your average discussion on setting goals and having a positive mindset. This one blows the roof on what is possible if you set your mind to it and have a strong enough ‘why?’ Introduced to each other through social media, Kate discusses her life, it’s traumatic events and how being defined by other’s expectations of her was never going to be a healthy route to take. Likening her awakening to the advice you get from the doctor telling you something has to change, Kate gave herself the ‘life chat’ and decided to take 100% responsibility and charge full steam ahead with her mission and passions. Not one to shy away from a challenge, Kate has been an age-group world champion at triathlon, but her next event is going to be a world’s first. Not your standard swim, bike and run. Not even multiple Ironman races. This one is the biggie! A swim of the English Channel; a bike from coast to coast in the USA; and the ‘run’ a summit of Everest!

Dan Cooke has lived a life full of adventure, adversity and service in his capacity as former teacher, fireman and latterly in the role of international search and rescue. Chance encounters with opportunity and strong mentors have set Dan on a life of serving others, with all the highs and lows that brings. In this episode we explore what it is to serve and how sometimes doing nothing is the best thing, despite the urge to rush to help. From dealing with death and devastation on a mass scale in Haiti to giving yourself the chat when diving with Tiger Sharks, Dan helps to strip back what it is to lead in uncertainty and facing fear. We also explore the subjects of learning, failure and what it takes to build a high performing team; be it working with the England rugby team or the co-ordination of effort with the volunteer men and women of ‘Serve On’, a humanitarian response charity whose dedicated volunteers help communities in their hour of need, at home or abroad.