Unexpected Turns

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Unexpected Turns delves into the lives of the bold, brave truly inspirational people whose lives have taken an unexpected turn. Join Anne, Bev and Julie to hear their amazing stories, be it surviving a prison cell in Myanmar, or learning to walk and even fly again after being paralysed. Jolted out of their comfort zone our guests have gone on to achieve great things.

Anne Dibben


    • Mar 20, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 41m AVG DURATION
    • 72 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Unexpected Turns

    Bob: Life at 102yrs young

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 63:55


    It was a real privilege to spend an afternoon with 102yr veteran Bob and his wife June. Bob loves life and enjoys every day, chatting , playing the piano, games and the occasional dance with his wife. Listen in to find out what keeps him young and his opinions about life today.

    Top 10-Chris Reeves: 'Be your own hero".

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2024 60:15


    No.1 Chris Reeves, 'Be your own hero'. Join Anne, Bev and Julie as they delve into the life of Chris Reeves, consumed with guilt Chris became so exhausted he would get out of bed to go downstairs to sleep on the sofa. Knowing something had to change he became his own hero, gaining energy and motivation by helping others do the same. Having set up 'Win the Morning, win the day', Chris is now known around the world, yet feels there is still so much work to be done, on himself personally and for others. Contact Chris : Instagram @pwbcoach if you need help follow the links www.Wtmwtd.org #depression #selfmotivation #realtalk #mentalhealth #wellness #coldwaterimmersion #wtmwtd #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #mindset #addiction #alcoholism #podcast #wellbeing #heros

    Top 10-Emma: Spectrum of Misconception

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2024 52:14


    Top 2 Emma founder of spectrum of Misconception.. Does my child have Autism? Emma was  positive her newborn Zach had Autism, and if he did what next? Frustrated at every turn, Emma set out to gain the knowledge and support Zack and other children with complex needs and disabilities deserved. Now the founder of Spectrum of Misconception, a social enterprise whose Ambassador, Dame Laura Kenny, is recognised world wide and an advisor for Hertfordshire Local Authority. Listening to Emma it is astonishing what she and her team, including Zack, have achieved. Yet Emma is by no means content she has bigger plans and we are pretty sure she will achieve them! #ASD #SEN #complexneeds #invisibledisability #SPLC #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #specialneeds #spectrumofmisconceptions  #autism #laurakenny #strongwoman .

    Top 10-Pat Bambini 'War evacuee'

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 55:19


    Our Top 3 episode and definitely one of our favourites. We were honoured to talk to the indomitable Pat Brambani about her life as a penniless child in the 1930s to finding happiness and respect as a young adult. Along the way Pat survived severe beatings and cruelty as an evacuee before finding love and friendship. Listen to her story, from the slums to hobnobbing with millionaires. AND today's episode only takes us to the birth of her daughter, Olympian and all round superwoman Lisa Brambani. It is no surprise that Lisa is what Pat is most proud about! #ww2 #survivor #dyslexia  #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #realtalk #ww11survivor

    Top 5-Chris & Gabs 'Cycle the World'

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 50:47


    Next up at No. 4 the inspirational Chris and Gabs. This was our 1st episode and now a few thousand downloads later we are republishing it with a quick update. Unexpected Turns delves into the lives of the bold, brave, truly inspirational people whose lives have taken an unexpected turn, none more so than our first guests, Chris O'Hare and Gabs Gratrix, who are cycling around the world, well they are currently holed up in Georgia due to Covid restrictions. Join Anne, Bev and Julie to hear their amazing stories, of camping under bridges in the snow to surviving a prison cell In Myanmar. Jolted out of their comfort zone our  guests  have achieved great things from conquering cancer to mountains. Their determination to survive and support others shines through, be it helping rebuild fishing boats on Phi Phi Island to rescuing a starving dog in the mountains. As Chris and Gabs put it ‘ We harness the elements, others just shelter'. If you have a question or message for Chris and Gabs or any of our guests email us at Unexpectedturnspod@aol.com. Or contact us on Instagram @unexpextedturnspod. Follow Chris and Gabs on Instagram @worldcyclingtour2 or read their blog www.ChrisandGabsWorldCyclingTour.com

    Top 10-Brian: Defying the Odds

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2024 44:54


    Next up Top 5, Brian Wheeler. Brian describes his journey as a catalogue of failure and rejection, yet against all odds and defying medical logic he has truimphed. A competitive runner and rower Brian became paralysed overnight. Join Anne, Bev and Julie to hear his  incredible story, of overcoming paralysis in order to run and fly again.  His determination to walk and support others has resulted in him raising thousands of pounds for Aerobility, the Charity which enables all abilities to fly. This is the first of our episodes with Brian, he will be back in next show  to answer your questions. Feel free to send a text or audio clip and we will aim to use it when we catch up with Brian.   Jolted out of their comfort zone our guests have all gone on to achieve great things.   If you have a question or message for Brian or any of our guests email us at Unexpectedturnspod@aol.com. Or contact us on Instagram @unexpextedturnspod. Follow Brian Wheeler on Instagram @Brian_wheeler or read more at   www.aerobility.com 

    Top 10-Jane : Menopause Champion

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2024 54:05


    Since this episode was released Jane has achieved masses, including getting her dream job! Jane James, always up for a laugh and fiercely protective of her friends and family Jane was a joy to be around. Then suddenly she ‘hit a brick wall' , becoming anxious and a tyrant to live with. Find out why and what Jane has done about it. #menopause #menopausemandate #hrt #womenshealth #mentalhealth #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #realtalk #menopausematters

    Alice: The House That Sat Down

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2024 58:48


    One summer's day Alice arrived home, stepped out of the car, and stared as her beloved cottage slowly crumbled. Artist, mother, writer, school librarian, Alice May. Instagram : @alicegmay www.alicegmay.com What happened, and how did it change all their lives?

    Top 10-Les: Filling the Void

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 42:33


    Next in our top 10! Join Anne, Bev and Julie as we delve into the life of  photographer, stunt man, adventurer and code writer Les Morales. After  a relationship ended badly Les bought a camera to fill the void. Despite photographing Bradley Wiggins urinating he is respected throughout the world for his work documenting cycling and surfing.  Find out why Tom Piddock questioned whether it was bad luck when Les photographed him earlier this year. #photography #mentalhealth #unexpectedturns #cycling #grandfondo2022 #unexpectedturnspod #realtalk #tompiddcock #lifethroughthelens #wellness #findingyourway

    Top 10-Ian Boswell: A New Identity

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 59:51


    One of our most popular episodes! Professional cyclist and now 'Gravel King'  Ian Boswell joins us along with former World tour Teammate, Jon Dibben. Ian, 'The Bos', was destined to join the elite group of Grand Tour winners when a crash ended his career. Suffering severe concussion  Ian left the sport. We discuss the impact of concussion in elite sport In a candid discussion around  the emotional impact of losing both your job and part of your identity Ian explains how he has found new purpose and the myriad  projects he is now involved with, from fire fighting , farming and gravel racing.  Join Anne, Bev and guest host Jonathan Dibben to hear his amazing journey and how he is building a new identity and dreams.  A lot has happened into year since we spoke to Ian, we have kept in touch and are delighted he is now a proud father. Do follow Ian @ianboswell on instagram and give his podcast "Breakfast with Bob" a listen   If you have a question or any feedback email unexpectedturnspod@aol.com or send us a message on our social media channels. To find out more follow  @wahoofitness,@ianboswell,@performancebydibben,@jdibben94,@unexpectedturnspod on instagram. #unepectedturns  #concusion #concusioninsport #mentalhealth #elitesport #gravelracing #wahoo #identity #headinjury #cyclecrashes

    Top 10-Tegan: " What if???"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2024 43:00


    Tegan " What if my whole life goes by and I get to the end thinking 'what happened?'" This episode also showcases why we started this podcast.

    Top 10-Sian "Outside the Comfort Zone"

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2024 48:31


    At No. 10. the amazing Sian.  One of the strongest people I know Sian bravely set off having successfully negotiated the many hoops needed to get a work visa. As with all adventurers Sian appreciates the little things and does not dwell on bad experiences, referring to them as life lessons. In response to a recent show, several people have asked about our most popular shows. Today we are starting a countdown of our top ten from Season 1. Are these your favourites?

    Unexpected Turns Trailer; What's up?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2024 0:46


    Ever wondered which are our most downloaded episodes from Season 1 ? We will be releasing a count down tomorrow! And hopefully we will be back with our latest Episodes from Season 2 very soon. Thank you for sticking with us. Anne, Bev & Julie.

    Future & Favourite shows

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2024 3:20


    What is coming up next on the show? We are excited about our next show, 'The House that sat down'. Unfortunately due to a few technically issues, this won't be published until the end of July. Meanwhile do take the opportunity to listen to some of our previous episodes, and let us know what you think. A couple have generated lots of discussion. Heather's show 'A safe space', has got lots of you messaging us, despite it having only a few downloads. Our most popular show by far this season, Jon Dibben 'Mars Bars to Medals', has also generated lots of discussion. You can contact Jon directly on instagram: @jdibben94 or @performbydibbens. Till next time.

    Forca-Strength

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2024 4:52


    What gives you strength? Forca against Cancer is giving cancer warriors strength and support. It was started by a group of friends to support, the truly inspirational Carla Whitbread. Today the charity has grown and is supporting cancer warriors from Southampton to Dorset. It is a charity close to my heart and run completely by unpaid volunteers. To find out more follow them on instagram @forcaagainstcancer. ,

    Sam: "There are Worse Addictions"

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2024 66:50


    Sam is a determined, successful woman, who oozes positive energy, so what prompted her to say, "There are worse addictions to have?" Listen to find out how Sam went from skipping PE to winning body building competitions.

    Robert: Pampered Pooches to Wild Bears

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2024 32:00


    How did Robert go from training pampered pooches, and their even more pampered owners to dealing with wild animals and rivers in deepest Alaska. And what is he planning next?

    Heather: A Safe Space

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2024 43:32


    Her life in the country surrounded by farms sounded idyllic. Waking up to the sounds of birds and animals, no one worried about locking their doors, or cars, so why did Heather swap it for a home in a rundown city where she woke up to the sound of sirens and gunfire? And more importantly just how did she manage to bring the farm to an inner city neighbourhood.

    Jon Dibben: Mars bars to Medals

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2024 47:33


    Finally, I get to chat with Jon about his love of racing, the highs and lows and the determination needed to succeed . Listen in to find out how Mars bars led to the World Championships.

    Clive: A chance meeting

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2024 61:43


    You think you've got it all, beautiful family, home and a very successful buisness when suddenly everything unravels and you end up homeless. How do you cope? Clive's positivity and zest for life was not going to let anything hold him back, like Richard Branson he is in his early 70s and looking forward to everything life still has to share. Listen in to hear his story.

    Lisa: Discarded yet Thriving

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2024 34:33


    How do you cope when your mother discards you to pursue men and money? Having been thrown out of her home as an 11yr old Lisa moved in with an older cousin and thrived. But life has not been straight forward. Now Lisa and her family are living full time in their motor home, 2 adults, 4 children and 2 dogs! Just how did that come about? We catch up with Lisa and her family in Spain and hear her story. #hope #nevergiveup #travel #campervanlife #unexpectedturns #realtalk #mentalhealth #family

    Max: No Disney Kids Here

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2024 63:45


    Living in Uganda, you don't get to be a 'Disney kid', you have to work from the 'get go'. Today we welcome back Max (Listen to his first Episode Max: It'll all be for the best ) who tells us how following his arrest he got involved with the Uphill Trust school in Uganda and what difference it is making to both the students and local community. It's not easy, but Max and the team have raised thousands and achieved huge success. Find out more here: https://www.uphilltrust.org/ #uphilltrust #raisinghope #uganda #education #unexpectedturns #notadisneykid #brideprice #unexpectedturnspod

    Michael: From A Distance

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2024 28:09


    Michael, describes himself as a musician, writer, actor and autistic. Today he shares some of the changes in his life and how he deals with them, particularly unexpected changes, without allowing them to 'freak him out'. This is the 3rd time we have spoken and although he has not found things easy he is always inspiring and has a huge amount of gratitude for everything in his life. This episode is coming out between Valentine's and Mother's Day. As a mum it is wonderful to hear how much he appreciates his family and friends. #autism #family #realtalk #mentalhealth #musictherapy #change #unexpectedturns #relationships

    Liam: Conquering the Green tunnel.

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2024 82:46


    Unexpected Turns with Liam Lethern. Getting started is the hardest bit, there are always reasons not to, you just have to balance it out and go for it. Then to keep going when your head and body start messing with you. What is it like stepping out of your "normal life" and travelling half way across the globe to hike the Appalachian Trail. Listen in to find out how Liam conquered the "Green Tunnel" We all say, tomorrow, another day/year, why not now? Do you agree? #unexpectedturnspod #mentalhealth #reasonsnottoo #justdoit #trialhiking #AppalachianTrail

    Max: It'll all be for the best

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 25, 2024 36:36


    Today we meet Max MacDonald , whose life has taken him all over the world, overcoming numerous set backs and unexpected turns. He thought he had it made having won a scholarship to become a pilot with British Airways but life got in the way, yet he says even if he could turn back time he would not do anything differently and treasures the experiences he has had. #unexpectedturns #pilot #africa #arrested #expatlife

    Precieux Noka: There's still hope

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2024 47:24


    How did Precieux Noka go from County lines drug runner to National Champion? Getting into County lines drug running is easy, getting out not so much. But to then completely turn your life around and become both an inspiration to others and a National Champion is pretty spectacular. #drugs #unexpectedturns #glovesnotguns #countylines #grooming #boxing #unexpectedturnspod #hope

    Mark Ind : Heartbeat

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2023 38:23


    How do you cope when your son is dying? What can you do? Mark and his family trusted the experts and as a family they have fought through, becoming stronger together. Now Mark tells his side of the story. Follow : @wessex_heartbeat instagram & Facebook www.heartbeat.co.uk

    Chloe Evans : Wild Tracks

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2023 39:51


    How does an aspiring Tech CEO end up removing Rhino Horns? All in the hope of saving them. Chloe has had some journey, I first met her at the biggest, and arguably best Bike races for youngsters-Assen Jeugd Tour. Chloe was there with Welwyn Wheelers, Dame Laura Kenny's old team. Now living and working in Dubai, having moved there straight after University, Chloe has made a name for herself in the Tech industry but she has always loved animals and is now very much involved with preserving African wildlife, even settling up her own company Wildtracks. Chloe never stands still, ambitious and passionate I cannot wait to find out what the future holds, but know she will make a huge difference to the animals she is protecting. Follow her on instagram : @wildtracks and @conservationchloe #unexpectedturnspod #conservation #hippos #africa #africanwildlife #safari #dubai #assenjeugdtour

    Chris: Broken Heartbeat

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2023 42:52


    How do you cope when your body fails? Today we talk to my nephew who despite a broken heartbeat is thriving, his motto never give up We tend to think of heart attacks happening to 40-50 year adults yet today we talk to my nephew, the super resilient Chris Allenby who survived multiple heart failures before he completed primary school. I can still remember our shock when we heard he had Long QT, also known as SADS-Sudden Adult Death Syndrome. Now in his 30s, very little was known about his heart condition and there were even fewer survivors. We talk about how it has changed both his life and that of the family. Follow: @allenbychristopher on instagram #heartattack #sads #heartfailure #anxiety #depression #longQT #realtalk #mentalhealth #unexpectedturnspod #unexpectedturns #trains

    heartbeat long qt
    Darren Part 2 : Left to die yet thriving

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2023 37:31


    Stabbed and left to die in his own home, while his family slept upstairs Darren talks about his recovery. Physically he appeared fine but to survive the day to day he buried his anxieties, refusing to recognise he had a problem until he tried to take his own life. Today he shares how he coped and is using his knowledge to help others. #menshealth #realtalk #mentalhealth #survivors #knifecrime #unexpectedturns #trauma

    Darren Barden: Skip to the Good Bits

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2023 34:40


    We all need to feel safe, and expect to be safe in our own home yet a year ago 9yr old Olivia Corbel Pratt was tragically shot dead when her mother opened their front door. Years early Darren Barden opened his front door and was viciously attacked and left for dead, while his family slept upstairs. Like Olivia, Darren was not the target, how do you ever come to terms with that? Somehow Darren survived, although his physical wounds healed, his mental scars remain. Hear how he is only now over 20years later coming to terms with his ordeal. A trauma that has given him a determination to live every minute and a passion to help others, particularly men, accept and express their feelings. As he says skip to the good bits. Skip to the Good Bits by Darren Barden @darren.barden #mensmentalhealth #mentalhealth #unexpectedturnspod #realtalk #positivity #trauma #knifecrime

    Enough

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2023 7:34


    What is enough? We seem to spend our lives thinking we haven't got enough, we aren't good enough or they aren't good enough for us. Michael Ankers and I had a fascinating discussion about this, having just turned 19 Michael feels he is enough and that his one time best friend has caused him enough stress and it is time for him to move on. Hear the song Michael wrote on today's show. Unfortunately much of the recording was corrupted so I have instead answered some of the many questions you, our listeners have sent in asking about us, a group of technophobes in our 60s who until we started this show had never much even listened to a podcast.

    Sam Baynes: Falling Upwards

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2023 39:44


    Sam Baynes, describes herself as an adrenaline junkie, she loves skiing, climbing and the mountains. Working as sports physio she had an accident and was given very little chance of survival, yet alone ever being able to speak, ski or climb again. Did she recover, if so what helped her get through it and what is she doing doing? Sam believes we all need a purpose in life and she has found hers following tragedy. After falling down a slope Sam states that Sam died and now the new Sam is falling upwards. #trauma #comarecovery #physiotherapy #lifepurpose #mentalhealth #realtalk #climbingto positivity #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod

    Steve Murray : Crime Scene Cleaner

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2023 56:17


    Imagine always being the outsider at school. Having to move home every few months Steve struggled forming relationships. By the age of 14 he was a Dad but unable to cope he quickly descended into a life of drugs ending up homeless. But he never gave up and is now secure, clean and helping others. As Steve says living outside the 'drug Bubble' and actually having to deal with your feelings and everyday life is hard but so worth it. #homelessness #addict #mentalhealth #realtalk #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #ADHD #Dyslexia Follow Steve on instagram :stevemurray1982

    Jack Gregory Part 2: Hope & Healing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2023 20:27


    Warning: Episode contains references to drugs, violence and abuse. Jack Gregory, poet, film maker, family man and addict. Failed by the UK Special School System, abused by the adults who should have been caring for him he became mentally ill. labelled a homeless junkie and violent criminal. He had lost everything. Determined to be a better man Jack fought his way back. Hear who and what helped him turn his life around. More than anything Jack's story shows no matter what has happened there is always hope, and life can be great. An award winning poet and author you can find out more at; Jack W Gregory-APersonla Apocalypse by live and Undrugged a podcast on Spotify The Accidental Journalist on Facebook Instagram : @j_w_greg #mentalhealth #addiction #prison #recovery #realtalk #sexualabuse

    Trevor Jones: A New Normal

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2023 39:48


    Today we met Trevor Jones, a promising young athlete who was found coughing up blood at the side of the road, he had now idea how he had got there. Trevor was suffering from a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), broken back and numerous other injuries. Just how do you recover from such a devastating event? Like many of our guests Trevor was determined to return to what he considered 'normal' life. After years fighting his way to a 'new normal', Trevor was content and in his final year of Medical School when tragedy struck again. Once again Trevor fought his way back. Truly inspiring stories of fortidude and resilience. #unexpectedturns #tbi #visionimpairment #survivors #resilience ######

    Kevin Lane : Fitted Up & Fighting Back

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2023 59:38


    Labelled a violent thug and convicted of a contract killing, Kevin Lane was jailed for 22yrs. The press ( papers such as the Sun and Panorama ) gave the clear impression he should never have been released. What really happened? And how did someone with such a strong work ethic and desire to succeed end up in jail? Kevin has written his own story, Kevin Lane 'Book of Innocence'. Today he talks to us about his life and future plans, as well as sharing his own views on the justice system. Instagram: Fitted Up & Fighting Back Warning: This episode may not be suitable for some listeners, listener discretion required as this episode contains language and reference to violence some may find difficult to hear.

    Jack Gregory: A Personal Apocalypse

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2023 47:29


    Trigger warning: Listen with care. This episode discusses addiction, mental health, and violence. Today's guest Jack Gregory was failed by the UK Special School System, abused by the adults who should have been caring for him he became mentally ill. labelled a homeless junkie and violent criminal. He had lost everything. Determined to be a better man Jack fought his way back. Hear who and what helped him turn his life around. More than anything Jack's story shows no matter what has happened there is always hope, and life can be great. An award winning poet and author you can find out more at; Jack W Gregory-APersonla Apocalypse by live and Undrugged a podcast on Spotify The Accidental Journalist on Facebook Instagram : @j_w_greg

    Memoirs of a WASBIE with Elizabeth Lockhart Mure Ep 24

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2023 40:41


    What is a WASBIE? And why is so little known about this amazing group of women who served alongside the Army in Burma during the Second World War? Probably because, as we have found during this series of interviews with WW2 survivors, they never spoke about their experience. It was only after her Aunt Maria died that Elizabeth discovered her diaries and was able to contact other WASBIES to find out more about their role during WW2. Elizabeth went on the write the book "Front Line and Fortitude"' a unique memoir based on the wartime diaries of Maria Pilbrow, MBE, who, as a young newlywed, followed her army husband to India in 1943. There she joined the Women's Auxiliary Services (Burma), an intrepid band of women who provided canteen services for the men of the Fourteenth Army during the Burma Campaign of the Second World War. Memoirs of a Wasbie with the `Forgotten Army' By Elizabeth Lockhart-Mure is available to buy on AMAZON or directly from the author.

    Skip Sams: God, drugs & music.

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2023 50:37


    Trapped in a cycle of success / sabotage Skip Sams gave up his music and voice to feed his drug and alcohol addiction. Having hit rock bottom he fought back and is now helping others. The sheer grit and determination to turn his life around is awe-inspiring. Skip has over 16 years of recovery from crystal meth, alcoholism, and bipolar disorder. In 2004, he was diagnosed with HIV. For over a decade, Skip has been defying these diagnosis and helping musicians and performing Artis who have lost their technical skills, disconnected from their inner music, and whose spark of creativity has gone dark. Join us as we delve into the life on Skip Sams and discover what led to his downward spiral and how he has found his way back to become an award winning composer, performing artist, actor & sober coach. For more information follow Skip Sams on Facebook: Skip Sams Recovery & Success Coach http://www.mysuccess.coach instagram: skipmeister #unexpectedturnspod #sober #addiction #HIV #music #meditation #drugs #bipolar

    Kimberley Skillett

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2023 58:24


    What made Kimberly Skillett sign up for the toughest sailing race in the world, having never sailed any type of yacht before? She'd worked hard and had a well paid job and a great boss, why give it up? Kimberley Skillett started life in Hong Kong, enjoying a 'pretty feral' childhood before finding herself at an austere boarding school. Kimberley and her family loved the vibrant 'ex pat', lifestyle in Hong Kong but after her father, a pilot with Cathay Pacific, became unwell he had to leave his job and the family returned to the UK. His long illness and death had a huge impact on the family and was the catalyst for Kimberley. #unexpectedturnspod #expat #hongkong #Alzheimers #dementia #roundtheworldrace #clipper #sailing

    Aileen Tattersall: Living through WW2 in Wales

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2023 38:22


    Unexpected Turns delves into the lives of extraordinary people, today we hear from another survivor of World War 2 the remarkable Aileen Tattersall. now 90yrs young. As a child she witnessed a pilot being burnt alive in his plane after it was shot and her own home being set on fire by bombs. Today Aileen talks to Julie Tattersall's daughter, Joanne about her life during the war in Bermondsey Street, near Cardiff.  We were delighted Aileen was able to share her story having fought back from a stroke last year which left her unable to talk or move easily. We are continually  amazed by the strength of character and stoicism of all our WW2 survivors.  NOTE: This episode has been edited , something I struggled with as I like to remain true to my guests personality and feel the editing may mask Aileen's struggle to communicate, therefore with the family's agreement we will be publishing an unedited version. Hosted by Anne Dibben, Beverley Evans and Julie Tattersall #ww2 #strokesurvivors #survivors #stroke #mentalhealth #mentalstrength #unexpectedturnspod #dyspasia #speech #slcn #speechtherapy

    Emma Saysell: Spectrum of Misconception

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2023 52:10


    Does my child have Autism? Emma was  positive her newborn Zach had Autism, and if he did what next? Frustrated at every turn, Emma set out to gain the knowledge and support Zack and other children with complex needs and disabilities deserved. Now the founder of Spectrum of Misconception, a social enterprise whose Ambassador, Dame Laura Kenny, is recognised world wide and an advisor for Hertfordshire Local Authority. Listening to Emma it is astonishing what she and her team, including Zack, have achieved. Yet Emma is by no means content she has bigger plans and we are pretty sure she will achieve them! #ASD #SEN #complexneeds #invisibledisability #SPLC #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #specialneeds #spectrumofmisconceptions  #autism #laurakenny #strongwoman

    Michael Ankers: Awesome Autism

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2023 37:35


     Covid has turned many lives upside down, today we hear how it affected an Autistic teenager.  Michael Ankers is a performing arts student, YouTuber, podcaster and musician. He also has autism and dyspraxia, and has written a song about himself titled "Awesome Autism". It was fascinating talking to Michael and hearing his perspective having spoken to several parents of children with Autism ( Sarah's fight for Sam Ep10  & Emma Seysell : Spectrum of Misconception Ep17 )  Follow Michael on: instagram @michaelankersMusic                                     Facebook :Michael Ankers                                     Youtube : Michael Ankers  The were given permission to use the music excerpt from  'Awesome Autism" by Michael . It is owned by Michael Ankers and available on Apple and Spotify  #autism #awesome #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #sen #dyspraxia #musician #YouTube #diversity #inclusion #unexpectedturns

    A child's memory of war: Jim Jamieson

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2023 33:33


    A child's memory of war. I have always loved listening to my parents and grandparents stories of their childhood, so am delighted  my Dad agreed to talk with us today and share his memories of life in the 1930's and 1940's. Was hearing bombs dropping scary, did they worry we would lose? #ww2 #ww2memoirs #livinghistory #conversationswithmyfather #warchild #unexpectedturnspod #unexpectedturns #lifestories #

    Maurice Burton: Prejudice & Perseverance

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2023 56:24


    Maurice Burton, Briton's first black national champion was a huge talent, so why did he end up going abroad to race? Today we delve into the early life and career of the ground breaking cyclist. Next time we will find out how he managed to overcome sabotage and a lengthy stay in hospital to achieve further success. #unexpectedturnspod #blackchampions #rolemodel #prejudice #sixdaycycling #britishcycling #devercycles #mauriceburton

    Hilary: Faith & Miracles

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2023 60:02


    Hilary, born in the 1920's to a delighted  50 yr old couple, describes herself as a miracle baby. The church and her faith remain a huge part of her life and as she says she has been very lucky,  blessed. Now a remarkable 97yr old she tells us about her life, from the quiet countryside , working underground during the war in Birmingham to South Africa and now Southampton.  Hilary's zest for life is infectious and so uplifting.  #ww2 #miracles #queenelizabeth #ww2memories #faith #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #livinghistory #livelifetothefull

    Anna :WWII Living Under Nazi Rule

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2023 44:14


    What was it like living under Nazi rule? Today we talk to Anna about her life in Austria before WW2, life during and after the war. The constant fear and lack of knowledge about exactly what was happening. Now in her 95th year Anna is able to reflect on a long and eventful life. #ww2 #realtalk #Austria #survivors #nazirule #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #livinghistory #WW2survivor #ww2vwteran

    Jane James: Menopause Champion

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2023 54:25


    Today we talk to the very glamorous outgoing Jane James, always up for a laugh and fiercely protective of her friends and family Jane was a joy to be around. Then suddenly she ‘hit a brick wall' , becoming anxious and a tyrant to live with. Find out why and what Jane has done about it. #menopause #menopausemandate #hrt #womenshealth #mentalhealth #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #realtalk #menopausematters

    Pat Brambani:WWII Evacuee

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2023 55:56


    We were honoured to talk to the indomitable Pat Brambani about her life as a penniless child in the 1930s to finding happiness and respect as a young adult. Along the way Pat survived severe beatings and cruelty as an evacuee before finding love and friendship. Listen to her story, from the slums to hobnobbing with millionaires. AND today's episode only takes us to the birth of her daughter, Olympian and all round superwoman Lisa Brambani. It is no surprise that Lisa is what Pat is most proud about! #ww2 #survivor #dyslexia  #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #realtalk #ww11survivor 

    George's Journey Death, Drugs & Dreams

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2023 52:35


    Join Anne, Bev and Julie as we delve into the life of Around the World George. Already struggling at school with dyslexia ,George tragically lost his father. Unable to deal with his emotions George made 'some bad choices' ending up dropping out of school after  'a rumble'. With the help of family and friends George set off for a year backpacking around Australia. A change of environment wasn't enough and George continued to try to block out his feelings, suffering anxiety. He continues to work to travel and has been pretty much everywhere over the last 20 years. He describes travel as an education and has enjoyed endless adventures but also found himself in some pretty dangerous situations. Find out how and where George is now, has he managed to remove the toxicity from his life and begin to process his emotions. #mentalhealth #travel #backpacking #drugs #addiction #anxiety #sunsets #sobriety #dyslexia #toxicpeople #unexpectedturns #unexpectedturnspod #aroundtheworldgeorge #realtalk #favelalife

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