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14 Feb 2022
102 'Brand Strand' Episode - Alex Taskin Founder of Leadership Training Company, Passe Partout: The 'Personal Valets' To Your Success!
Welcome to the Clearing: Founder of Leadership Training Company Passe-Partout Alex Taskin - to tell us the ‘story behind the story’ of being Passe-Partout!
Join me and Founder Alex Taskin as she tells us how and why her Leadership, Coaching & Training Company Passe-Partout (.com) so enjoys analogising their founding story to the epic adventure story of “Around The World in 80 Days” by Jules Verne.
Not so much "Around the World in 80 Days" but "Around the World in Training Ways!"
In the story Passe Partout is of course the Personal Valet to intrepid adventurer Philleas Fogg. Training Company Passer-Partout position themselves as being the 'Personal Valets to your success!' across all aspects of Leadership, Coaching & Wellbeing.
What Alex Says About Herself:
I feel at the top of my game right now and get a real buzz out of helping people and businesses achieve positive change. What am I best at? I think in the nicest possible way, it’s pushing people, coaxing them to think clearly, to make 3-dimensional decisions and take action in ways they probably wouldn’t otherwise attempt.
A few stats: the other day we calculated that I have clocked up at least 20,000 training hours, about 15,000 in Organisational Development consultancy and just over 5000 in coaching. Scary figures, but they do kind of ratify my sense that I am getting the hang of it now!
Specialties: Coaching (for Executives, Managers and People in transition) Helping teams and organisations develop and improve Training on Leadership, Change, Relationships, Service Improvement and People Management OD consultancy from diagnosis to return on investment Investors in People Positive psychology
What Can Horses Teach You About Running A Business?!
Leadership and Change Consultant Alex Taskin from the wonderful Passe-Partout Consulting Ltd likes to take the reins and spur people on to make changes in their life. But not just horses - she's a People whisperer too!
“My twin passions are coaching and horses,” she says. “And I'm so pleased finally to be putting the two together in a new venture into the world of Equine Assisted Learning.”
Sounds fascinating and anyone who loves horses will surely vouch for their intelligence and sensitive souls when it comes to helping humans.
Recorded also as a LinkedIn LIVE Alex has huge experience as a business consultant having clocked up 20,000 training hours. That's Mastery right there!
“The Good Listening To: The Story Behind Your Story Show!” is the Sh
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Have you ever had your entrails spread about the audience of a threshing circle in Ibiza whilst being sacrificed (and disembowelled with a ruddy great sickle) as a Sun God by the Moon? And whilst wearing a pointy helmet?
Well Author Ben Dunwell has!
"And we had this rather lovely thing where I had this fake tummy that was stuffed with red ribbons and when they cut it open, they could pull them all out and spread them amongst the audience..."
Lovely!
Ladies n Genminminminmin (er, min...) please welcome Author & Librettist Ben Dunwell to "The Good Listening To" Clearing for a special 'Good Books' series-strand recording of the Podcast as Ben tells us all-out his new Book:
"Pine Tree Island: A Novel From Ibiza's Dawn" circa 650 BC as populated by the Phoenicians.
(Ibiza's Dawn is the timeline, not the Island Post Mistress erm, obvs, obvs, obvs...)
The Good Listening To Podcast: The Story Behind Your Story Show!
The adventure continues!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Welcome to a special 'Brand Strand' Episode of "The Good Listening To: The Story Behind Your Story Show!"
In the Clearing: Kingsley Neill, part-man-part-Viking, full-on-majestic-bearded-beauty-and-all-round-awesome-pants-of-an-executive-coach!
Here to explore with us all things Fulcrum Coaching and the "pivotal moments" in our lives that lead us to significant change and greater self awareness.
A man who clearly and very genuinely loves his work. His compassion for people is palpable and his presence is strong.
Having cut his teeth for 20 years in the Energy Business of Oil, he's now made the pivot to the transformational energy business of Coaching, inspired by helping others to navigate their own leadership journeys with confidence and clarity.
Now on a trail to help us all to make time count. One leader, one team, one business at a time, inspiring authentic leaders to create "pivotal moments" of their own.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Naxos Creative courses are all about taking time to reconnect with yourself. "Creativity courses for everyone!"
So Ladies n' Genminminminmin (er, min...) please welcome Ros Hickson & Neil Johnson, the husband and wife team behind "Naxos Creative", as they tell us all about their combined vision to curate "confidence building courses, culture and creativity akimbo" in the sunshine paradise and clear skies and sunsets (and-and-and...) of Naxos in Greece!
Beneath the ancient cedar tree of Paradise on one of the beaches of Naxos for their 'Clearing', this is the "story behind the story" of being Ros & Neil from Naxos Creative.
Pause to look at the sunset...
And then check out
http://www.naxoscreative.com
And then BOOK!
I'll also be joining Ros & Neil as part of the Naxos Creative Team to run "INSTANT WIT Laughter Lab" later this year too!
Hurrah!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ladies n' Genminminminmin (er, min...) look who I've gawn' n' snagged in my Zoom Hole for special Episode 100 of the Podcast!
Please welcome to "The Good Listening To" Clearing - Dave Cornthwaite, life-adventurer, explorer, film maker and creator/leader of the "YesTribe!" a community that like to "SayYesMore!"
"After realising my cat was way cooler than me I decided to make life better and say yes more!" which he did by developing a habit of embarking on long journeys without motors in a series of epic adventures called Expedition 1000.
"A journey of 1000 miles doesn't start with a single step it starts with an idea"
"Expedition 1000 a long-term quest to take on 25 journeys, each one a minimum of 1000 miles, each one using a different form of non-motorised transport".
15 journeys complete. 10 to go!
Adventures so far have included swimming the Missouri, skateboarding across Australia and tandem-riding from Vancouver to Las Vegas.
Dave is also owner & co-curator (along with his partner Em) of "Big Sky Hideaway" which is a wonderful place all about glamping, camping, alpacas and big skies in Bolton Lancashire.
And as he says in his opening line on his website at https://www.davecornthwaite.com "BEGIN: If ever caught between 2 decisions always go for the one which makes for the best Story..."
Dave also has his own Podcast called "Self Propelled" which explores the drive, motivation and secrets of people who take the road less travelled.
An epic guest indeed!
Enjoy!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Hooray for Hollywood! Ladies n' Genminminmin (er, min...) please welcome the warm, generous and wise L.A based Talent & Brand Manager and occasional humming-bird whisperer, Seamus Lyte!
UK Agent and close friend - back in the day - to none other than Princess Leia herself, Carrie Fisher! And Agent today to the likes of Ross King, Christopher Biggins & Tyler West to name but three.
In this delightful episode, Seamus Lyte also tells bravely of how ‘trusting his higher power’ - in combination with the love and support of his close family, clients & friends - has helped in his recovery and happy remission from a shock diagnosis in March last year, of a Glioblastoma tumour & brain cancer.
A recent guest described being in "The Good Listening To Podcast" as like having a 'Day Spa' for your Brain! So it is my absolute pleasure to offer that to Seamus in particular!
Also listen out for the many accidental and wonderful book titles (!) that we stumble upon as we enjoy chatting along together, including: "We Walked Through Clouds of Jasmine" (& Marijuana) ; "Flying Somewhere Fabulous on a Fabulous Day" (as he turns 'left' - see what he's doing there?! - on boarding a plane to go somewhere fabulous!) and of course the guaranteed Agent classic: "No Time for Bullshit!"
Seamus has also been extremely generous in guiding and supporting me in the journey of the Podcast so far. Thank you Seamus! And best wishes for an ongoing remission and complete recovery, as you continue to walk the high cliffs of Malibu of a Sunday.
(And another Book title you can have for free: "Sunday On The Cliffs With Andrew!")
Enjoy!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Welcome to "The Clearing" Darren O'Conor: Learning Designer, healthy sceptic and co-founder of Passe-Partout Leadership Consulting & Coaching to talk about all things Leadership & Wellbeing.
If you Google Darren O'Conor you come up with a Lightweight Thai Boxer. Erm, this Darren is the other one!
“In Business Is It Time To Ask Yourself: ‘Where Did I Go RIGHT?’”
The pandemic profoundly affected both Darren O’Conor’s business and his family. The flourishing agency his wife Alex and he have run for 25 years faced some client challenges. And recently, like many people, they both sadly lost some close family members.
“I lost my father, Alex lost her mum, and last year Penny, our niece, died. They remind you of the importance of having a sense of perspective about what you are doing,” learning designer Darren tells me.
Despite the economic downturn that hit so many other UK firms hard, Alex & Darren’s well-established business, Passe-Partout Consultancy, has grown from strength to strength.
“The pandemic changed our whole perspective. It’s been the most rewarding period for us. We have been able to turn things round and help far greater audiences than ever before,” he says.
“’Where did I go RIGHT!?’ – People don’t ask themselves that question very often!”
Passe-Partout Consultancy empowers clients to make a significant personal and professional breakthroughs. Darren’s done the same.
When things aren’t going well, so many business people worry about where they went WRONG. But Darren’s hugely positive and refreshing perspective turns that upside down – he went RIGHT!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ohhhh yes! Ladies n' Genminminmin please welcome Actor, Director, fellow Instant Witter, ex-Banker and dropper of the occasionally delicious 'F' Bomb (!) the very entertaining and wonderfully enigmatic Craig Edwards.
As an ex-Banker not so much "Cashier Number 3 please" but "F Bomb Number 12 pleeeeeease!" Chortle!
So Craig: How would you most like to be remembered?
"I'd like to be remembered as someone who laughed a lot. But I won't be remembered for that, I'll be remembered as being a grumpy old fuck!"
Lol! A wonderful and thoroughly enjoyable conversation indeed...
A special "Digital Nomad" recording (go me!) as I speak to Craig LIVE from my balcony and strapped to the old interweb in Madeira! Wooo-hoo!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Welcome to the Clearing: Actor, Director and one the original founding members (alongside his brother Mark) of "The Medieval Players" Carl Heap!
"Finding the method in Medieval Theatres" The Guardian
"The Medieval Players" were a pioneering British touring theatre company in the 1980's & 90's renowned and lauded for restoring a delicious vocabulary and experience of Medieval performance for us all, by re-introducing us to a different kind of Actor: An ensemble that is completely at ease talking directly to an audience and not hidden in the dark:
"If the audience is sharing daylight with the Actors it seems rather rude to ignore them!"
Indeed I had my 1st ever professional touring experience with The Medieval Players in a production called "Courage" in 1989 (as party of a 10 month tour) very shortly after graduating from The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.
Renowned Theatre Director Emma Rice said of The Medieval Players: "Gasp makingly cheeky, so bloody funny, so bloody skilled!" as she witnessed the all juggling, all fire-breathing, all stilt walking Medieval Minstrelsy as one of her very formative theatre experiences.
Carl now writes, continues to act and direct as Artistic Director of Theatre Company, "Beggars Belief" (see what he's doing there?!) and he also sings on an epic scale with The Crouch End Festival Chorus.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Comedy Double Act Beauties Howard Coggins & Stu McLouglin from "Living Spit" Musical Theatre Company, here to "dissect their frog" on their wonderful anarchic comedy method and madness!
The warmth between the 2 is palpable and their comedy magic together a work of collective comedy genius. Howard & Stu work with a creative crack team of 5 to generate their magic together and are based in Clevedon at their home venue (which is also delightfully their "Clearing") which they also co-founded, "The Clevedon Theatre Shop"
This is their story on what has shaped them in the crafting of their impressive canon of 17 hilarious comedy musical theatre Shows to date as "Living Spit".
"Living Spit" so called because Howard is - as Stu discovered much to his delight on a day trip to Hever Castle - a "Living Spit" of Henry V111. Stu got straight on the phone to Howard - and the rest - as they say, is comedy history!
Enjoy!
More about Living Spit:
Introducing an extraordinary couple of colourful characters from the West Country, the frontmen of their own theatre company, called mysteriously “Living Spit’. Not so mysterious when you learn that Stu saw a picture of Henry VIII at Hever Castle, which struck him as the spitting image of his friend, Howard. On the strength of this striking physical similarity, the two friends decided to create their own lighthearted musical comedy about Henry and his various wives.
Howard was a shoe-in for Henry. Stu was happy to play the wives. Musicians in their teens, actors in their twenties, the two thespians created Living Spit - as if inspired by the Bob Dylan song ‘Don’t think twice, it’s alright.’
Now their company has 5 key people, including their own ‘third man’, producer / director Craig Edwards. Over ten years later, Living Spit has over 17 different original comedies to its credit and two or three more live ideas in the pipeline. These days the shows are more comedy than history. They always involve original music. The founders are now related by marriage, but not to each other. Brothers-in-law, they happily share family occasions as well as gruelling professional tours. In the pandemic, they played on camera- or rather six cameras - to an empty house at the Bristol Old Vic. This was a breeze compared with one unhappy night in Runcorn - so disappointing that they vowed never to return. And they never have. Instead, Howard and Stuart do their own thing, in their own way, then turn to Craig to help them make it work. Allowing a mere three weeks for rehearsals, they’re ready to go public with it.
The audience is the only thing that matters to Living Spit: their laughter, their delight, their satisfaction. Our heroes are happy to be the best in the West. They don’t need to prove they’re the best in the world - even
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Please welcome the "Queen of Valuable Content" Sonja Nisson, recorded as a special LinkedIn LIVE 'Brand Strand' Episode of the Podcast.
'Brand Strand' is where I wrap an episode of the podcast - with its strong and established Storytelling construct - around a particular company or individual, to help amplify their company or personal brand.
In a nutshell Sonja Nisson "helps people unlock what they want to say in the world of business".
In the kelp beds of Sennen Cove in Cornwall for her Clearing (as a wild swimmer & 'happy mermaid'!) Sonja tells us the 'story behind the story' of her curation of "The Land of Content": "What if the land of content was an Island? What would we find?!"
Listen up to learn more about the "Bay of Quick Wins", Foggy Bottom", "Shit Creek" & "Lonely Crag"!
More about Sonja:
"If you are going through a business identity crisis and are keen to get your message and communications approach sorted, she can help. Her clients are founders and leaders with expertise and ideas to share, and most often, a website they're frustrated by and finding it hard to move forward on.
Sonja helps you get clear on your story - who you are and what you do as a business - using research and feedback as a mirror to align your thinking and find a confident way forward. Working together, you'll craft a unique message, website and valuable content strategy that lands with those you want to influence, driving you and your business to reach your full potential.
- Co-author of Valuable Content Marketing, how to make content the key to your business success - the first UK book on content marketing, published by Kogan Page 2013, 2015. - Alongside her independent consulting work, she runs the "School of Valuable Content" with co-author and friend Sharon Tanton. They run courses and writing clubs to help people create the valuable content they need to power their businesses.
- She believes that the quest to create valuable content is a great catalyst for a more customer-centred approach to business and marketing. - She's increasingly curious about the role of listening in business and in life. She'd love to unleash a listening revolution in the business world. Imagine the radical change that would happen as a result!
Enjoy!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
A reunion here in "The Good Listening To" Clearing, 34 years later after we both 'hacked our ways into the thickets of life', having trained together as actors at The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School!
"So Richard, what's it like to Fight Direct and keep correcting Robert DeNiro? How was it working with Brad Pitt on the set of "Troy"? And how did you end up being Michelle Pfeiffer's Stunt Double in "Stardust"?"
To answer this and all the usual other questions, Ladies n' Genmin please welcome to the Good Listening To 'Clearing', internationally renowned Stunt Coordinator, Fight Director & Master at Arms for the Film & TV, Richard Ryan, currently Fight Director for Netflix's "Vikings Valhalla".
Richard was mentored in his early formative training by the great Henry Marshall, who handed on the glorious title of "Master at Arms at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art" to Richard as his successor. Richard was subsequently also mentored by perhaps the greatest Film Fight Director of all, William Hobbs.
William Hobbs fight coordinated all of the best sword movies in the 70's-90's, including the iconic fight, regarded by many as being "the greatest sword film fight ever filmed": The sword fight and final 'battle to the death' between Liam Neeson & Tim Roth in "Robroy", with John Hurt & Brian Cox looking on.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
16 Jun 2022
113 'Leadership Reflections': Russell Dalgleish - The Great Scot! Scottish Serial Entrepeneur & Network Builder (and 6' 5" Man Mountain in Entrepreneurial Flairs!)
Welcome to the Clearing for a special "Leadership Reflections" Episode, the wonderful 6’ 5 Scottish man-mountain of entrepreneurial flair & generosity and a truly 'Great Scot': Russell Dalgleish 😊 Chair & Co-Founder of the Scottish Business Network.
Russell's lifelong, blazing 🔥 passion is helping other people to succeed in business and in his high-achieving career he’s helped thousands of them. Could YOU be next?
Russell Dalglish is a Scottish serial entrepreneur and network builder extraordinaire. So if you need help in your business too, then do not miss this show!
Many generations of entrepreneurs, directors, business managers and executives of all shapes and sizes have hugely benefited from his extensive business wisdom and proven track record of success.
What Russell says about himself:
The first thing people notice about me is ‘me’ because I'm a unique character and a natural performer who’s happy to speak up for what I believe (the fact I'm 6’ 5” and Scottish helps too).
My true passion, my “why”, is to help others to succeed.
The career I have followed has allowed me to develop a truly global mindset, an inner capacity to “do the right thing” and resilience which has allowed me to accept both success and failure as simply milestones on my journey.
I know how challenging it can be to lead, how lonely it can sometimes feel and how important it is to ask for help. I also know how difficult it can be to reach out and admit we can’t do everything. Don’t worry you’re not alone, we’ve all felt this way.
I have been fortunate to experience success in my career and recently was listed as one of the top 100 most influential entrepreneurs in the UK (No. 67) https://bit.ly/2OiscPc.
If you are unsure if I can help you then please drop me a note at russell@exolta.com and let’s schedule a call.
More about Russell:
Consciously committed to helping others, by any measure, Russell Dalgleish is a great Scot. 6’5” in his tartan socks, Russell can trace his family back well over 400 years! (Ancestry, eat your heart out.)
Russell is an extraordinary Scottish success, both personally and professionally. He believes in the big vision. Why else would he be the pioneer investor in an award-winning feature film, no fewer than 9 years in the making?
Clearly patient, this is an honest, entrepreneurial family man, driven by the power of purpose. ‘Have laptop, will travel’ Russell is an international digital nomad who has helped develop a global network of Scots, which is now over 10,000 strong, in no fewer than 76 different countries.
A decent human being, he is an unashamed technophile, who is willin
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Delighted to welcome creative and comedy legend Vic Llewellyn to The Good Listening To 'Clearing' to talk about all things being Vic, castle building, writing, creativity & random squirrels!
Vic is a theatre maker, writer, actor & chewed bread sculptor! Funny, educational & inspiring on the outer limits of creativity.
You can also 'watch/listen' to Vic's episode here:
https://vimeo.com/722189063
Enjoy!
More about Vic:
John Victor Llewellyn Williams, aka Vic Llewellyn, is a delightful, deadline-driven dramaturg, who wants to be remembered for what he has done rather than what he was called. Yet his name itself is interesting. He was called Victor after Victor Silvester, the world champion ballroom dancer who also sold literally millions of records as a band leader from the 1930s onwards.
The name Llewellyn comes from the Nurse, who was present at his birth, which he sees as something of a miracle in any event - on two counts. First, his father survived a potentially lethal booby trap explosion in Egypt in World War 2. Secondly, his grandfather was a genuine Foundling - abandoned on a Bucher’s doorstep as an unknown newly born baby! Happily, grandfather, father and the young Vic Llewellyn all survived and thrived, although Vic himself was turning 30 before his natural creativity got into overdrive.
He was taught to be a Clown by the one and only Philippe Gaulier and remains inspired by Gaulier’s teachings to this day. Vic met his future wife Emma while working with Tom Clark from the then famous Clark’s shoes’ family.
Vic is inspired by art, books and music. Even if a book is not to his liking, if he has started it, he will always finish it, optimistically hoping to find the rare pearl amid the encircling dross. Likewise for him, there is no such thing as ‘background music’ in the curious world of Vic Llewellyn.
With a brother called Alex who is 9 years older than him (another miracle!) Vic was naturally way ahead of his peers in his liking for Jimi Hendrix and the Sensational Alex Harvey Band. One of Vic’s schoolboy nicknames was Mature Alex! The theatricality of that band appealed to him.
As well as writing and performing, Vic now has his own live radio show and is totally unworried if “no one’s really listening “! Art is its own reward. Applying a Profit and Loss metric merely demeans it.
Vic agrees with Eleanor Roosevelt’s assertion that critics are habitually overrated and adds his own delightfully idealistic idea that “Everyone’s got this beautiful thing inside them!” The challenge, Vic suggests, is simply to find where you belong as early in your life as possible.
Reg Starkey UK Health Triangle Magazine
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ladies n' Genminminminmin (er, min...) please welcome Bristol Broadcasting Legend Keith Warmington legendary BBC Radio Bristol Presenter, Blues Harmonica Player, Voiceover Artist & Cycling Nut!
Top bloke, top local Broadcaster and top local legend!
After 52 years in Bristol, the mellifluous Keith Warmington is an optimistic Francophile, who is on his way to becoming the finished article.
He is a self-confessed "cycling nut", happy to be on the road for up to 3 hours on any day he chooses. Habitually he enjoys saying hello to people, counting local cranes on a regular basis and changing his spectacles every year. He also enjoys sharing chocolate cake in the Primrose Cafe.
Keith does not yet have his own website but claims the BBC website’s version of him is inaccurate. He was born in Camborne, not as a ‘chopper’ in Redruth, as implied by the BBC. Keith started working with them in 1983, not 1993 as their website suggests. This programme is proud to set the record straight!
Keith is a professional performer and harmonica player, who also plays the guitar. His great loves, apart from his lawyer wife and his grownup daughter, are recognising random road bikes and gazing at beautiful guitars.
While still at school in Redruth, Keith was inspired by role-model folk singers like Mike Chapman and Ralph McTell in denim jackets, carrying their guitars around in cases. Later he was impressed by Tour de France competitors with their seemingly effortless energy and elegant sunglasses.
Keith actually taught French for 9 years in Bristol before finding more fame and job satisfaction in broadcasting with the BBC. There, the late John Turner was his mentor. Keith remembers John’s pragmatic advice: * Always know what you are going to do next * When the red light goes on, make sure you’ve got something to say
It has stood him in good stead to this day. What Keith says is colourfully fluent and well worth listening to. Hear for yourself, here. Thank you!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ladies n' Genminminminmin (er, min...) we have Clergy in 'The Clearing'!
Please welcome my very dear and lovely old friend The Reverend Olivia Coles. A real life "Vicar of Dibley" here in The Good Listening To Podcast: The Story Behind Your Story Show! recorded as a FaceBook LIVE!
"More tea Vicar?"
"No, but I'll have another one of those Rock Cakes. Those are the buggers that made me fart..." erm, etc!
Hurrah!
Olivia Coles is the Vicar of Whittlesford, in Cambridgeshire. Her late father, Jeremy, was himself a Vicar, her mother Margaret was a Trauma Counsellor (and still with us). Her husband, Alasdair, is a Professor of Neuropathology at Cambridge University and he too is ordained. Their son Alex is a Northampton Saint! (He plays Rugby professionally - he has not been canonised!) Their social worker daughter, Kana, is currently specialising in Domestic Abuse.
More about Olivia:
Olivia herself has enjoyed a lot of training, a lot of counselling and a lot of open-house life experience in Zambia and Peru as well as in the UK. Her faith is God is beacon-like without being off-putting. Her sincerity shines through her conversation. Some might say she exhibits evidence of low self-esteem. Others might more charitably recognise her attractive humility and wonderful work ethic.
The Reverend Olivia Coles loves people. She loves listening to them. She loves sharing their joy at christenings and weddings, as well as in old age, supporting their grief at funerals and wakes. Olivia takes her job very seriously - but not herself. (She once sat in a bath of porridge as a student for a whole day to raise money for charity!)
For Olivia, all relationships are of paramount importance. Primarily, of course, her relationship with God and then follow all her other relationships - with her extended family and many friends, her parishioners and the wider community, including refugees arriving soon under her roof from Ukraine.
She loves walking with her dog, especially on the seashore, describing the sea itself as ‘God’s paintbox’.
Olivia has no doubt whatsoever that God is always with us. She has no doubt whatsoever that God loves us unconditionally. Her best advice resonates the recommendation of all 12 Step fellowships: “Let go and let God!”
She is a lovely friend and a wonderful human being with a big heart and a warm enthusiasm.
Enjoy!
Reg Starkey - Health Triangle Magazine
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Jonathan is an Award Winning English Actor, Writer & Comedian and Peter Cooke obsessive!
"I’ve truly ‘lived’ but then suffering creates greatness..."
Jonny and I go way back when, to when he walked into a bar in Cricklewood (“I was working as a Waitress…” erm, etc) dressed as a half-cut Centurion circa 1984!
Episode recorded as a FaceBook "Live".
MORE ABOUT JONATHAN:
As an actor, comedian, writer, Jonathan Hansler has led a life that has never been dull - nor without anxiety. Jonathan curated his own collection of Self-help books and not without good reason. His father was an active alcoholic, which invariably made him remote and unpredictable. Jonathan will always regret never having had the chance to say goodbye properly and achieve some kind of closure.
Jonathan himself was abused at school. He was inspired by Peter Cook, who, like him, imagined that he could rely on alcohol to dull the daily pain and make an apparently ‘normal’ life look possible. Jonathan’s father died with alcoholism. Peter Cook died with alcoholism. Jonathan decided not to follow in their footsteps.
He stopped drinking alcohol 8 and a half years ago and has stayed stopped ever since. A couple of months ago, Jonathan embraced Buddhism and now takes personal responsibility very seriously indeed. He remains highly anxious, occasionally very irritable and sometimes awfully moody. Now he tries to use his difficulties to his best advantage.
He celebrates his curious sense of humour and his appreciation of absurdity wherever he can find it. One of Jonathan’s ancestors, a spy for Wellington, was the first person ever to receive a knighthood from the late Queen Victoria. This ancestor even had a pub named after him!
In the second Elizabethan era, John Cleese gave Jonathan Hansler the right to recreate the original Basil Fawlty in his own image using the original scripts from Fawlty Towers.
Clive Greenwood and Jonathan Hansler developed new lines for famous comedians in an imaginary afterlife sc
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Very excited to welcome Tim Crouch, one of British Theatre's 'great innovators', with plays that have disturbed and challenged the passive theatrical experience to The Good Listening To 'Clearing'.
A wonderfully rich and textured conversation indeed. As Tim said: "I talked with Chris about Tony Brightwell, my dad, my dog, randy airline captains, theatre, sailing little boats, my family - but mostly the dog..."
Tim Crouch is a world renowned British experimental Theatre Maker, Actor Writer & Director. He specialises in rejecting theatrical conventions - especially realism - and prefers a form whereby the audience is invited to help image and create the work. Tim is very warmly regarded and much respected as being an "Actor's Actor".
"Theatre in its purest form is 'conceptual': No need for sets, costumes & props. All exists inside the audience's head".
This is particularly relatable for me because of my own love of all things Comedy Improvisation and INSTANT WIT whereby an empty stage is brimming and charged with potential where 'anything is possible', with the audience all set to colourise the scene and fill in the gaps of all the silly proceedings with their imaginations.
Tim's seminal 'centre piece' play from which he says all else has evolved was My Arm, the story of an 'empty gesture'. It's about the confession of a man who lived for thirty years by the courage of his lack of conviction. "At the age of 10, for want of anything more meaningful to do, I put my arm above my head and kept it there".
Other work includes "An Oak Tree"; TV series "Don't Forget The Driver" which he co-wrote with actor Toby Jones (as Tim's homage to his home town of Bognor Regis) plus numerous world tours with a series of plays making Shakespeare more accessible through the eyes and perspective of single characters "I, Malvolio"; I, Banquo"; I, Caliban"; "I, Peaseblossom"
Stephen Bottoms, Professor of Contemporary Theatre and Performance at the University of Manchester said of Tim Crouch:
"I can think of no other contemporary playwright who has asked such a compelling set of Questions about theatrical form, narrative content and a spectators's engagement".
‘One of the smartest artists making theatre in Britain now.‘ Kulturflash on Tim Crouch
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Adam Crowther presents BBC Upload 7-10pm every weekday on BBC Radio Bristol - which he’s presented since October 2018.
He has worked as a broadcaster and presenter across live events and radio as well as live streams and videos for BBC iPlayer. Adam has spent most of his presenting career championing, encouraging and celebrating new talent - from musicians to writers, comedians and bloggers, Adam loves celebrating talent.
Adam is also an award winning social media expert. He’s managed social media brand accounts for the BBC (BBC Radio Bristol, BBC Breakfast and BBC Introducing in Shropshire) as well as a children’s charity in Birmingham. Adam has also created content for BBC Two and BBC masterbrand instagram accounts, covering premiers of Peaky Blinders and Blue Planet II.
“ Today you are you That is truer than true There is no one alive Who is you-er than you.”
The one and only Adam Crowther is inspired by these simple words from Dr Seuss. The choice reveals a lot about the broadcaster and his 24 carat authenticity. He appreciates honesty, expressed in accessible language. He is not 'hoity-toity' and has never wanted to be either. OK, he was cheeky in school. Yes, he sang in a band. And yes at 16, he was chosen to show the Prime Minister - Tony Blair! - around his school. On request, he even made the PM a cup of tea, under strict security supervision.
After university in Aberystwyth, where he studied Drama, Adam became a Youth Worker and grew into becoming a pioneering broadcaster with BBC Bristol via BBC Radio WM In Birmingham. And this, despite underselling himself relentlessly at his first interview. Adam learned his lesson quickly and by way of reference, quotes Ray Charles’s mother in the biopic: “ I tell you once. I help you if you get it wrong. After that, you’re on your own.“ Adam was allowed that second chance and made the most of it.
He pioneered a new take on Social Media strategy and execution for the BBC. He co-created
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"Hi-Diddly-Dee An Actor's Life For Me!" Please welcome Actor, Creative & all round 'prolific pants' Stewart Wright atop a bus on the way to Kathmandu in the halcyon days of being 19 for his 'Clearing', as we talk the combined passions of life, family, rugby and acting.
Recorded also as a Facebook LIVE: https://www.facebook.com/730074635/videos/1030198231024253/
Actor Stewart Wright, soon to be seen as “Devina Delish, the Cross Dressing Plumber” in “Midsomer Murders” and to answer the question that we’ve all been asking: “Dude, Where’s My Donkey?”
Also due to be appearing as “BS3 Santa” at Tobacco Factory Theatres & Windmill Hill City Farm this Christmas - and as “Barney the Postman” in a Christmas film on Netflix with a cheeky appearance in between in the West End as Richard Burbage (of Shakespeare's Lord Chamberlain Company) in “Upstart Crow” - with David Mitchell as the Bard himself - William Shakespeare!
Marvellous!
More about Stewart from Reg Starkey - Editor of UK Health Triangle Magazine:
Sugar-free Stewart Wright is a fascinatingly competitive English character actor. He has done remarkably well on TV and in films, as well as on stage.
When Covid closed theatres but allowed freedom to move, he took his talent onto the streets, knocking on doors in the Christmas season with a degree of success that surprised even him. Stewart displays classical English charm, with traditional reserve.
His parents were both doctors, who could not heal themselves and chose instead to go their different ways very early in Stewart’s young life. Perhaps it was then that he first picked up the theatrical masks of comedy and tragedy, hiding his true feelings politely in the process?
He was sent away to boarding school, where he first trod the boards and got a taste for the ‘smell of the greasepaint and the roar of the crowd’. But where he really excelled was on the rugby field.
Despite a serious knee injury aged 14, Stewart became Captain of Wellington’s first XV and dreamed daily of playing for England. He was definitely on track when he was selected for an England under 18 trial - but his hopes were shattered by a recurrence of his earlier injury. The possibility of playing professional rugby was kicked savagely into the longest grass. Stewart was left in the lonely field of the eternal subjunctive: the might- have-been.
Aged 19, footloose and fiancée free, Stewart found his way to Kathmandu, enjoying the excesses of gap-year-style freedom before committing to three years at Drama School back in London. He never stopped watching top quality rugby or loving it - but acting became his new passion. In those early years, Stewart ran through Agents and girlfriends like a precocious child running through newly mown hay. By his own admission,
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Ladies n' Genminminminmin (er, min...) please welcome the warm and wonderful silky-voiced beauty Michael Fenton Stevens to "The Good Listening To" Clearing!
Michael Fenton Stevens is an English actor and comedian. He is best known for being a founder member of The Hee Bee Gee Bees and the voice behind the Spitting Image 1986 number 1 hit "The Chicken Song":
"Hold a chicken in the air
Stick a deckchair up your nose
Buy a jumbo jet and then bury all your clothes
Paint your left knee green then extract your wisdom teeth
Form a string quartet and pretend your name is Keith"
We've all done it...
Mike also has his own wonderful podcast called "My Time Capsule":
A podcast that asks guests, such as Stephen Fry, David Mitchell, Caroline Quentin, Ross Noble, Lee Mack, Arabella Weir & Rob Brydon, for five things which they’d like to put in a Time Capsule.
They can choose anything from an item, to a memory, a film or even a country. Four of them are things they want to preserve but one has to be something they’re happy to lock away and never have to think about again.
And he's also been in the seminal BBC sit-com "Only Fools & Horses".
Like the Great Gatsby before him, Michael Fenton Stevens has always been proud to be an Oxford man - albeit more Brookes than Balliol.
When, in his second year, Michael was introduced to fellow student, Mandy Fenton, it was love at first sight - at least as far as Michael was concerned. But, a bit like Doris Day, he kept his love a secret. When a subtle twist of fate revealed that Mandy Fenton also had feelings for Michael Stevens, they started on a path to becoming Mr and Mrs Fenton Stevens. They had children and now their children have children.
First and foremost, Michael Fenton Stevens is a family man and his wife, Mandy Fenton Stevens, has a PhD in Bio Chemistry. Michael remains her greatest fan to this day and acknowledges the profound personal transformation that he attributes primarily to her.
Michael’s other greatest influencers were his own parents, both alas no longer with him. His father, Harry, was a good professional comic before becoming a full-time criminal defence lawyer, who still enjoyed singing old music-hall songs at weekends, often encouraging Michael to join him on stage. Originally also, Michael followed in his father’s footsteps for a year or two, as a potential legal eagle - but all he ever really wanted to do was tread the boards himself, in his own right.
Taking his father’s advice, Michael boldly asked all and sundry to help him get an Equity card. Bill Kenwright kindly obliged. Again as directed by his father, Michael modelled his voice on the dulcet tones of the film star, Robert Donat, rather than continuing with his sprawling suburban drawl, ori
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Mac Macartney is an international speaker, writer & changemaker. He has a foot in several worlds. He is the founder of the inspirational social enterprise, Embercombe. He is a visionary & a wise Elder. He touches hearts, fires imagination and invites courageous action.
Mentored by indigenous people over many years, he has acquired profound and original insights into questions preoccupying many contemporary leaders. Mac seeks to inspire the emergence of the leader in each of us, the leader who will take courageous action for a better, more sustainable world.
His profound, seminal book is called "The Children's Fire": At the heart of all the corporate Boardrooms of the world a Children's Fire should reside with all decisions made to protect their future.
Embercombe is a place to connect to your wild authentic self, resourcing you to live a passionate, intimate & purposeful life through their two signature programmes "The Journey" and "The Descent".
Timothy ('Mac') Macartney started his colourful life-journey with two brothers, one older, one younger. While his brothers both did really well at school, Tim did not. But at least he was good at games! His poor performance in class was a mystery to everyone because he always seemed quite bright. But Tim grew up thinking he was stupid. Over half a century later, he was diagnosed not just with dyslexia but with dyscalculia - an invisible condition that makes numerical comprehension and even basic logical thinking extraordinarily challenging. The good news is that by then Tim had become his own man: Mac Macartney, an articulate action man, a practical visionary!
Mac Macartney grew up in the 1950s in a loving, liberal Midlands environment where freedom for adventure and exploration were encouraged way beyond what would be considered ‘appropriate’ today.
When his parents worried that their middle son would not pass the 11+ and would therefore go to some Secondary Modern school as what was then perceived as ‘factory fodder’ they invested in a private boarding school alternative. Young Mac still struggled there but at least his sporting prowess saw him through. He describes it as like William Golding’s iconic novel ‘Lord of the Flies.’ He did not fit in. He stood among them but not of them, with thoughts that were not their thoughts. He went on to Loughborough College to complete his formal education in Physical Education & English. But switched from English when invited to join Drama where they had a shortage of men. Was this the beginning
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Ladies n' Genminminminminmin (er, min...) please welcome for a SECOND pass through The Good Listening to 'Clearing' the gorgeous human being - Lord Starkey himself (!) - Reg Starkey!
To talk about an audio book that Reg has lovingly produced posthumously for and about his old friend Andrew Tyler, who took the courageous decision to end his own life at Dignitas in 2017 rather than be sucked deeper into the vortex of Parkinsons disease.
When Andrew Tyler was born in the late I940s, average life expectancy for a baby boy in the UK was 69 years. What an amazing story Andrew made of his 69 years! And what an extraordinary interview this is, focusing as it does, posthumously, on his memoirs.
A brief background: ‘My Life as an Animal’ was first published as a paperback by his widow, Sara, as a source of funds for Animal Aid, the organisation to which Andrew devoted the last 20 years of his ‘great life’.
With the help of sound engineer, Tom Davidson and voice and music-man, Jim Smith, the paperback was then converted into an audio recording - and then converted into a master-tape for a broadcast-quality audiobook by Elliott Frisby at Monkeynut.
Andrew Tyler was sent by his mother, as a ‘boarder’ to a Jewish orphanage, in the same way that richer parents might have sent him to a Prep School. The difference was that Andrew hardly saw anything of his mother for the next 8 years. He left with a few Hebrew prayers - and no qualifications - in his early teens. He got a job as an office boy on a fashion trade magazine and worked his way across to being a junior reporter.
Still in his teens, he moved to another magazine as Deputy Editor. Then, passport and guitar in hand, he left his mother and London behind, taking off for Toronto, Canada. It was 1967 and the centre of the known universe was San Francisco, California. Andrew was there, almost by accident. He decided to stay!
The Hippie Trail appealed to him. He shared their (naive?) idealism. He writes lovingly about all of it. Some years and many adventures later, he returned to London via Canada. His mother was surprised to see him! He had an Anglo Canadian band, which he rated as competent rather than brilliant. He returned to journalism, with a great opportunity on New Musical Express.
Now, when he returned to the USA, hotels and limousines were involved rather than hitch hiking and Greyhound buses. Andrew’s NME credentials gave him access to people like Leonard Cohen, John Lennon, David Bowie and Bruce Springsteen. His kindly approach made stars like Marianne Faithful share their secrets with him. He switched from music to social issues.
He wrote a text book: ‘Street Drugs’. He met Sara. He embraced Animal Rights. He became a pioneer vegan and an Animal Rights campaigner. Together they moved fro
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
A special episode of 3 interviews to explain how you can gift the idea of "The Good Listening To Show", with its strong and established storytelling construct, to record the story of someone near, dear or close to you for posterity.
Do get in touch if you'd like to find out more?
chris@secondcurve.uk
M: +44 7711 644094
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Welcome to The Clearing for a special "Legacy: Life Reflections" episode, Sara Starkey.
Sara Starkey is a curious character, who has without doubt lived a truly extraordinary life. Her father was killed in World War 2 before she was born. She accompanied her second husband to Dignitas to end his own life with dignity.
Sara’s mother was Scottish, her father Johnny Pennant was Welsh. World war 2 was surely coming to an end when Johnny was killed - just weeks before Sara was born and only days before his own 24th birthday. Sara spent the first year of her life in Wales in the cosy care of her grieving and adoring grandparents, who were both doctors. Then her mother returned with a new husband called Zed and took her to Africa, where three more sisters were born. Life for Sara was nomadic, neurotic and nervous.
By the age of 10, she had lived in three different continents including America. Sara also went for a time to a Roman Catholic boarding school - but was still unable to read or write! When Zed’s work took him abroad, as it frequently did, Sara’s mother would go with him and leave her children in the care of friends, in loco parentis. Different people, with rules! Sara found it all more than a bit bewildering.
Her first 20 years were definitely not the happiest days of Sara’s life. She was timid and fearful. She lacked confidence. Getting married and then having her son, Davy, gave Sara a new and more independent role, even though, to this day, she still sees herself as ‘cowardly’.
Sara believes that her second husband Andrew saved Davy’s life when the local Teaching Hospital chose to delay operating for appendicitis as they questioned the GP’s diagnosis. Sara is inspired by people like Andrew who stand up and speak up, people like Peter Tatchell, Benny Rothman, Harried Tubman and Margaret Mead.
The so-called ‘coward’ Sara now exudes apparent confidence speaking truth to power as a campaigner for Animal Rights on the street or on the radio, as a weekly volunteer in an Animal Sanctuary, as a Vegan as a regular rescuer, with 40 years’ experience. 5 years ago, she accompanied her second husband, Andrew, to end his life with Dignitas in Switzerland. On her return without him, Sara published his memoirs entitled ‘My life as an animal’ as a paperback, available from Animal Aid and now also on Kindle, as well as an Audiobook on Audible.
In both cases, Sara has included her own experience taking Andrew to Switzerland, coming back without him and now curating an Andrew Tyler page on Facebook. Sara takes her dogs for an inspirational walk in the woods on a daily basis. Sara is a dedicated gardener - it helps her ‘decompress’.
She is enthusiastic about both the style and the content of ‘My life as an animal’ and lives by Andrew’s key question on a daily
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ladies n Genminminminmin (er, min...) look who I've gawn n' bagged for The Good Listening To Show! None other than National Children's Theatre Treasure David Wood OBE.
With the peace, quiet & sanctuary of very specifically "Room 208" of the Cooden Beach Hotel in Bexhill-on-Sea in Sussex for his Clearing, where a lot of his 'writing magic' over the years has taken place!
Heralded by The Times as being "The National Children's Dramatist" David Wood was a favourite of Queen Elizabeth II (presented to her no less than 4 times - and twice on the same day for reasons that he'll explain!). His new book, "Elizabeth Taylor's Kiss And Other Brushes With Hollywood!" reflects on his life & extraordinary career like a big fat kiss!
David Wood is a children's entertainment all-rounder, versatility-pants & polymath. He is an Actor, Author, Composer, Director, Magician (Bingo Caller!) & Producer. He is also an esteemed member with a "Gold Star" for recognition of his services to Children's Entertainment of the Magic Circle.
With so many seminal Children's theatre works & adaptations to his name including "The Gingerbread Man" (that partnered him way-back-when with Producer Cameron Macintosh & a show that has since toured the world many times over); "The Selfish Shellfish"; "The Owl & The Pussycat Went To See"; "The Tiger Who Came To Tea"; "Dinosaurs & All That Rubbish"; "Goodnight Mr Tom" & "Noddy" to name but several.
He also wrote "The Queen's Handbag" as part of the Queen's 80th Birthday celebrations in 2006, culminating in a Garden Party hosted by the Queen for 5,000 children + an all star cast in the gardens of Buckingham Palace - & simultaneously broadcast Live on BBC One!
He is also a man to whom I will be eternally grateful, as he gave me my 1st ever professional job, on graduating from The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, understudying TV Presenter Peter Duncan in Whirligig Theatre's "Dinosaurs And All That Rubbish". So it's all his fault! This is a sincere opportunity after all these years to welcome him to the Clearing to say THANK YOU!
David Wood has something of the magical spirit of Peter Pan about him. No wonder: it was his favourite story as a child & he was shaped in the 1960s. Well over half a century later, David still exudes an ageless happy-go-lucky, childlike optimism, a super-civilised energy & endless enthusiasm, which is simply irresistible. OK, he readily admits to being ‘a bit of a show-off’! Magic was his first party trick. From an early age, he also enjoyed being a choirboy - as it involved a distinctive wardrobe & a weekly public performance. What’s more, going to church two or three times on Sundays gave David a credible excuse to escape the parental tensions at home. Aged 14, when he told his Headmaster in Chichester that he wanted to be an acto
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History in the making as "The Good Listening To Show" goes LIVE with the 'Founder Story of Being Box-E', recorded for the 1st time in front of a real live audience of happily stuffed and fully sated supper guests!
So yes! Welcome to a World Premiere! Please welcome Box-E Head Chef and Maitre D Elliott & Tess Lidstone from Bristol, to tell the 'story behind the story' of being the glorious award winning restaurant that is Box-E!
Complete with audience Q&A.
Recorded in early October at Box-E in the Cargo area of Bristol.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ladies n' Genminminminmin (er, min...) look who I've gawn n' snagged in my "Good Listening To" Clearing and Zoom Hole!
The Artful Dodger & 'Twitter Lord' himself, actor Michael Warburton to 'give us our daily bread' (see what I'm doing there?! Even though he's no relation!) on all things Twitter, through his extraordinary depth of knowledge on all things film.
Check out Michael's amazing Twitter feed @MichaelWarbur17
(Recorded as a Facebook LIVE too in The Good Listening To Facebook Group)
A fellow Bristol Old Vic Theatre School alumni, Michael Warburton is an accomplished actor, self-confessed cinephile & drummer, all set to 'bang-out' a story or two in the storyscape of "The Good Listening To Show". Absolutely delighted to have him here!
More about Michael "The Twitter Lord" (as I call him!) Warburton:
Despite having over 90,000 followers on Twitter, Michael Warburton is quite a private person. He reveals himself indirectly by what he chooses to Tweet. He does not wear his heart on his sleeve. He is certainly not an open book. He found fame early, being cast as the Artful Dodger in Oliver after being talent-spotted in a Gang Show singing an Al Jolson song.
Michael has worked as an actor since he was just 11 years old - apart from all those times he wasn’t working. According to Michael Warburton, 90% of all actors are not working at any one time! The euphemism they used to use was ‘resting’.
Even though Michael is old enough to remember Black Forest Gateau, ‘resting’ is not a word that he would choose to use. It does not describe being out of work with any authenticity. Michael is not a lovey, he is a worker. When Lockdown strangled almost everyone in show business almost overnight, Michael reverted to type as the Artful Dodger and openly used Twitter to ‘pick a pocket or two.‘
Like a street performer of old. he adapted to the era of Social Media to ask for modest financial acknowledgment from strangers for the gems he was sharing with them. It is humble work but honest work. Michael shares anything and everything that genuinely appeals to him from over half a century of colourful life experience. In today’s jargon, Michael has found a way to ‘monetise’ his individual experience and life-cultivated tastes.
In his own words, he refuses to ‘pander’ to anyone. Michael takes pride in staying true to himself. He is not ashamed of starting life in Hounslow - just like Jack Wild before him and Phil Collins, too. All three were Artful Dodgers in their time. All three came from Hounslow! Michael Warburton is proud to be a genuinely self-made man. He is most inspired by working class heroes like Charlie Chaplin, Mel Brooks and Maya Angelou. Michael keeps his own private life private. He keeps his personal cards very close to his chest -
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ladies n Genminminmin (er, min...), yes it's a 'cracking day' (see what I'm doing there?!) in 'The Clearing' as I have the great pleasure of welcoming the warm and wonderful Peter Lord, co-founder of Aardman Animations to the show!
Aardman Animations is (as I'm sure you know!) the globally renowned 4 times Academy Award Winning Clay Animated & Short Films company based in Bristol.
"Nice Cheese Gromit!"
4 Academy awards, The Freedom of the City of Bristol and a GOLD Blue Peter Badge to his name, in the bag and in the Clearing!
Peter Lord also created and gifted "Morph" to the world; Morph being the wonderful plasticine comedy sidekick to Tony Hart and the iconic children's TV programme "Vision On" back in the day, that formed part of the fabric of my (and our) childhoods!
Peter also Directed one of my very very favourite Aardman Films "Chicken Run", with "Chicken Run 2" being in production as we speak.
Hurrah!
More about Peter Lord:
Born in Bristol, if Peter Lord had taken the Van Gogh advice, which he quotes, he might now be playing cricket. Or the piano. Instead he followed his father’s suggestion and made the most of whatever came his way. Aged 12, on his first day at school in Woking, he took the only desk left. This placed him next to a lad known there as ‘Sproxton D A.' (none other than Aardman Animations co-founder Dave Sproxton!)
45+ years later these two are still working together. What started as a ‘hobby for a dreary afternoon’ is now creating career opportunities for literally hundreds of others at Aardman Animations.
‘Pete and Dave’ were the co-founders of this extraordinarily successful creative enterprise, which now belongs to its staff - a bit like the John Lewis model but Aardman’s models are much more famous on a worldwide basis. They include the amazing Morph, Chas and many others, like "Shaun the Sheep"; "Wallace and Gromit"; "Chicken Run"; "Flushed Away" to name but some of an absolutely extraordinary canon of work on which we've all brought our children up (and ourselves!)
It all started with ordinary plasticine and Peter still remembers his artist mother making a plasticine loaf for him when he was aged around 4. Then cutting it into slices!
At age 10, he credits his teacher in his School for Gifted Children in Australia in sharing his enthusiasm for Ogden Nash, Ray Bradbury and Marcel Marceau. That enthusiasm inspired him, more than the poetry or the prose or the mime. It kept him going through the ‘long days and long nights’ of building an international business in animation. Good decisions, good timing, good luck and hard work - simple as that, apparently!
Peter is clear: “There are no secrets. Stop-motion is magic!” The work-side of Peter Lord’s career is already well documented. As a del
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Ladies n Genminminminmin (er, min...) please welcome Blue Peter, Scouting & Online Panto Legend Peter Duncan to The Good Listening To Show!
Peter Duncan is a quintessential family entertainer, a veritable prolific-pants of creativity and versatility. He is an Actor, Presenter, Adventurer, former Chief Scout, Pantomime King & Blue Peter Alumni.
My first ever Theatre job was understudying Peter in David Wood’s Whirligig Theatre show, “Dinosaurs and All That Rubbish” way back when, circa 1988!
A wonderfully rich and textured conversation indeed. One of the things I was intrigued to find out more about was a recent blog post in which Peter said: "Just after dying on a cross and ascending to heaven on a wet pensioner's matinee (whilst appearing in "The Mystery Plays") I sat in my car and was overwhelmed. I felt as if I had walked through an ethereal portal where nothing was inexplicable. ‘I was a child of the universe, no less than the trees and stars, I had a right to be here’ I always long to feel again that deep flash of knowing calm.
More about Peter:
Peter Duncan is a dreamer. And a thinker. And a daredevil. His life has never, ever been dull. His parents were in show business!They took him on their travels, all year long, from summer seasons to winter pantomimes.
Peter Duncan himself made his first public appearance as a teenager on stage at the Mermaid in London, playing Jim Hawkins in "Treasure Island". Then, at 16, he joined the Olivier Company at The National. It sounds as though he has either been working or travelling every day, ever since.
On TV, in film on one side of the camera or the other, or on stage, in a play or in Panto. Or on the road with family or with a documentary camera in Russia, USA, India or China.
If Blue Peter made Peter Duncan famous, he has found more anonymous popular fame with new generations of children as a Pantomime Dame. The characters Peter Duncan has created himself include Dame Trott, Billie Eyelash and most recently, Dame Dolly Donut! The anarchic humour of the Dame disguises the more serious side of Peter Duncan, who turns to Dahl for command of language, to Jung for a different view of dreams, to Gibran for poetic inspiration, to Goethe for a guide to bolder living, to Shakespeare for a gloomy summary of human existence, to Desiderata for a graceful exit.
This is a man of mystery, yet who is distracted by the physicality of football or the presence of women. Who had a spiritual experience after playing Jesus in a matinee, on a wet afternoon in a car park in the provinces. Who, in his spare time, is a dystopian conceptual artist, with a dark view of the further future - yet a bright view of today! Someone who writes a blog - on an annual basis!
A former wannabe hippie - who visits hi
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Absolutely delighted to welcome the warm, witty and wonderful Jenny Stephens to The Good Listening To 'Clearing' as part of a happy experiment to help amplify the reputation of the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, where I too trained as an Actor, using the happy vehicle of the Podcast.
Any minute now, Jenny Stephens is about to complete 10 glorious years as Artistic Director of the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Sounds quite highbrow? Jenny Stephens reveals herself here to be delightfully highbrow, middlebrow and lowbrow. One example illustrates this perfectly: she gives herself the Clearing choice of the Grand Canal in Venice or the Yorkshire Dales and Moors. On reflection, Jenny Stephens opts for the rural emptiness of Yorkshire.
Her family of origin is based in Bradford. She wasn’t born with a silver spoon in her mouth. She never met anyone who’d been to Boarding School until she went to University in Birmingham. If Jenny’s rough and ready Yorkshire childhood was formative, her University education was transformative. It “filled her soul” and made her aware of the connectedness of everything.
Jenny draws enthusiastically on sources from everywhere with her own personal brand of magnetic optimism. Born in the ‘Year of the Pig’ in Chinese astrology, Jenny Stephens manifests the typical characteristics of frank positivity and kindhearted openness.
While she may feel she was born without a roadmap, she has navigated her life with shining sincerity and style. Her ‘long-suffering’ husband and now grownup children remain a primary source of joy. She can lose herself watching "Midsomer Murders" with them or playing "Tomb Raider"!
She can find inspiration in one 19th century American orator or in all kinds of contemporary colleagues and students.
Her hair may have gone from brown to grey but her heart still sings in the magic of the rehearsal room. She is looking forward to directing the Archers again in 2023, renewing old relationships and developing new ones in the BBC’s most famous radio series.
Jenny Stephens is a diamond. If she was born a little rough around the edges, she now has many facets, all dazzling!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
‘I’m Thomas Johnson, I live in the Cotswolds in the UK. I have composed hundreds of scores for all sorts of different kinds of theatre - tiny studios, mid-scale theatres, in parks, in schools, on Broadway, on the beach, from Minnesota to Moscow - ranging from solo harp to full orchestra.
I greatly enjoy the collaborative process of theatre, and have a passion for working closely to text, believing that a musical underscore can be a proactive and exciting tool in shedding light on meaning; and music can of course be transcendent, travel beyond meaning, detonate a theatrical moment in a way that nothing else can.
I’m also passionate about choral music. Human voices, singing in harmony, thrill like nothing else. There’s something incredibly moving about the sound, and the commonality of it’.
Odd things happen to Tom Johnson. Aged 11, he was hired as a minstrel with his violin to entertain at replica mediaeval feasts every weekend, including copious amounts of mead and token wenches to add to the atmosphere! Young Tom acquired the taste early for a ‘good night out’ !
Aged 15, he discovered Punk music… Then, after getting a degree in English Literature at Oxford, he went to Sheffield with his then girlfriend. One week later, the relationship ended. Soon after, a friend suggested he looked for new opportunities in the classified ads in The Stage newspaper, Although completely unfamiliar to him, Tom responded to a vacancy at Dr Foster’s Theatre Company. The principal there has remained a lifelong friend and colleague ever since.
One Christmas where he now lives, a flash fire starting with a single candle quickly and completely destroyed his family living quarters - but, fortunately, it left his Egghouse Studio and musical instruments completely unscathed. Tom and his wife decided to stay on site and rebuild completely. This is very much in character as Tom has had in effect had only one job all his life, as a travelling musician, composer and choirmaster.
If he has a regret, it is that he did not back up his primary creative talent with a reliable secondary ‘trade’ like carpentry. Having said that, Tom admits he has shown little talent or even interest in any area not related to music!
He is happiest quietly composing in his Egghouse Studio or working with enthusiastic singers in a rehearsal room, ‘creating sounds that no one else thought was possible!’
A good guitar shop is his idea of window-shopping heaven and seeing a West Country sunset from a hillside pub, with a glass of good beer in his hand, is a spiritual experience.
At a more fanciful level, Tom would like to be remem
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Ladies n' Genminminmin' (er, min...) absolutely thrilled & delighted to be welcoming Josette Bushell Mingo, Principal of The Royal Central School of Speech & Drama to the 'Clearing'.
In the 1st of a series of shows whereby I'll be using the vehicle of the podcast to help amplify the reputation of The Central School, whilst also getting to meet and record some of its illustrious Alumni, with Josette agreeing to go first. I too trained there as a Drama Teacher circa 1982-86.
Here also to break new ground together, as our conversation is being simultaneously "signed" for the Film version of the programme, by the wonderful deaf-theatre signer Sherrie-Eugene Hart, praised by Director Sally Cookson as being "the best in the business".
Previously the Head of Acting at Stockholm University of the Arts, Sweden, Josette Bushell-Mingo is an award-winning actor and director whose career has included performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre and the Manchester Royal Exchange. She was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role as Rafiki in the West End production of The Lion King and she starred in the internationally acclaimed production Nina: A Story about Me and Nina Simone.
As a director, Josette Bushell-Mingo was Founder and Artistic Director of PUSH, a Black-led theatre festival with the Young Vic Theatre.
For 13 years, she was also the Artistic Director for The National Touring Swedish Deaf Theatre ensemble Tyst Teater, where her work focused on fostering the understanding, respect and potential of sign language arts and the artistic, linguistic and cultural rights of the deaf.
As a director and teacher, Josette travels internationally giving lectures and workshops in the creation of sign language theatre, cultural diversity challenges and inclusion.
More about Josette Bushell Mingo:
An articulate Aquarian of African descent, Josette Bushell-Mingo is a genuine East Ender. Born in February years ago and brought up in Plaistow, Josette first made her mark as an elite athlete, training for the 100 metre sprint, moving on to the relay and then going from track to field, for shot put and discus. Josette learned discipline early in life, together with the power of purpose and the talent for dealing with disappointment. Later Josette applied the same disciplines in landing an Olivier award for her role as the shaman Rafiki in the West End production of the now global hit musical, "The Lion King:.
In time, Josette left London for Stockholm where she was Director of the National Deaf Theatre of Sweden for over 10 years.
Sources of inspiration for Josette include Maya Angelou and Nina Simone and inclusion remains a central issue in Josette’s approach to her personal and professional life.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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16 Dec 2022
134 What Does Gender Fluidity Mean To You? What Are YOUR Pronouns? CHRIS WHITE, Father Of Two ‘Gender Fluid’ Children, Here To Help Us Navigate The Complexities
Ladies n' Genminminmin' (er, min...) please welcome Chris White to "The Good Listening To Show" to talk all about "Navigating Gender Fluidity": All things identity & sexuality through the lens of both of his children and their gender choice experiences: Both originally born "female" but now both identifying differently as "non-binary" and "gender-fluid" respectively.
What does Gender Fluidity mean to and for you? What are YOUR preferred pronouns? What exactly is a "Dead Name"? And what can sometimes happen if you get any of all that wrong in the ears of the receiver?
Here to help us to navigate the subtlety, nuance and complexity of all of the above is outdoor running nut and extreme Marathon runner Chris White, who recently 'laughed in the face' (as his face and beard both froze!) of temperatures of -9, going 'full feral Wim Hof', running here in the UK!
Here for background is what Chris told me about before we spoke:
Max (17 years old) - is of the female sex - but came out as non-binary in November 2020 & legally changed their name to Max in Dec 2021. Their "dead name" is Sophie - though we learned to avoid using that name as part of their identity & it's now quite reassuring that I think of them as Max (and the hiking socks I'm currently wearing as I write this have literally "Cool Max" written on them 🙂). Their preferred pronouns are they/them (which can get a little confusing when I say that they have gone to the shops - as could mean one or both of them! there are others that can be used - see https://www.them.us/story/gender-neutral-pronouns-101-they-them-xe-xem).
They felt uncomfortable being seen as a woman & when they came out as non-binary it felt that everything had clicked into place for them. They are not big on labels & just see themselves as "I am me". Coming out was definitely positive for them & made them feel more comfortable. Helps that the college they go to (UCB - University College Birmingham) has gender neutral changing rooms as well as male and female. Max does struggle where there that isn't available & often plump for the gender-neutral disabled toilets (or unisex toilets if available).
Vi (19 years old) - is also of the female sex - but came out as gender fluid within the last year (encouraged by Max coming out I'd think as it made them reflect on their identity). The
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30 Dec 2022
135 Scottish BAFTA Award Winning "Queen of Scream" Actress Shauna Macdonald on Navigating Grief, Inspiring Scottish Youth & Supporting an Epic Quest to Row Across the Atlantic
Please welcome to the 'Clearing' Scottish BAFTA Award winning actress & “Queen of Scream” Shauna Macdonald. "If you Google me a lot of horror comes up!" partly because of her role as Sarah Carter in the iconic film "The Descent" circa 2005.
A rich and textured conversation indeed on handling grief after the loss of her mother just under a year ago ("all roads lead back to my mum"), inspiring the future of Scottish Film & TV as Director of the Edinburgh Youth Theatre. And currently also supporting, (as "Queen of Digital Media"), the Atlantic Rowing Team "Atlantic Body & Soul" with her husband Cal Macaninch as one of a team of 5 at the oars, currently mid-row across the Atlantic as part of the Talisker Whisky Challenge.
Do listen out for the postscript "Captain's Log Supplemental" extract just beyond the outro, where Shauna tells us more about how we can support Cal and "Atlantic Body & Soul" in their Epic Quest and row across the Atlantic to raise money for young people that have experienced trauma.
More about Shauna:
Born in Malaysia 40 odd years ago, Shauna Macdonald took advice from her mother early on and Shauna has lived by it ever since. Shauna’s mum’s health was compromised by spina bifida and polio but her spirit never was. Her advice to Shauna was straightforward: “You can do anything you want !”
It applied when Shauna wanted to be an actor and joined the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. It applied when she fell in love in her twenties, with another actor, one somewhat older than her. It applied when she joined the Edinburgh Youth Theatre as a relief teacher and helped build it to over 200 souls strong in the last 7 years. Despite her only recently diagnosed dyslexia, Shauna is now a dab hand at applying for funds to benefit the future young talent of Scotland the brave.
Her husband, Actor Cal Macaninch is a brave man. At the time of this recording, he is 10 days into an epic journey of 40+ days of rowing across the Atlantic as part of a crew of 5, helping to raise money for Charity as one of 43 boats competing in the flotilla of the Tulisker Whisky Challenge.
And yes, Cal is the actor Shauna fell in love with numerous years ago. Apart from the traditional vows they exchanged, Shauna and Cal committed to sharing new adventures on a regular basis. All being well, their next will be being reunited in Antigua in a few weeks’ time and in the past their adventure-loving spirit has taken them to countries as far away from Scotland as Australia, South Africa and Canada. On the way, they have added 3 children and two dogs to their family troupe.
She now has a Scottish BAFTA award to her credit and has worked more or less non-stop since she left drama school. Her credits include the TV series ‘Spooks’ and on the big screen the genuinely spoo
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30 Dec 2022
135a Captain's Log Supplemental: Welcome BACK Scottish BAFTA Award Winning Actress & "Queen of Scream" Shauna Macdonald, to tell us all about "Atlantic Body & Soul" & Their Epic Quest to Row Across the Atlantic in the Talisker Whisky Challenge
What is the Talisker Whisky Challenge? How can we help? And beware the perils of "Trenchfoot of the Arse!"
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ladies n' Genminminmin (er, min...) please welcome Actor, TV Personality, Pantomime Dame, Celebrity & Legend, Christopher Biggins aka "The Biggins" to the show! An absolute delight & pleasure to welcome a real live "National Treasure" to the Good Listening To 'Clearing'!
Biggins (as we well know!) is a British Actor, Media Celebrity, Compere & 'Grand Dame' of Pantomime. He officially achieved 'National Treasure' status when he won, as the Nation's favourite, "I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!" in 2007.
I refer to him here in this episode very affectionately as being a veritable 'sofa cushion' as Biggins has been a 'happy appendage' to all the sofas of all of our favourite TV programme that you'd care to mention over many many years - and long may that continue!
Listen with glee in true pantomime style, as Biggins explains how he has managed to get 54" in the bedroom ("Oh yes he has!) with his obsession with Television. "Is that a Plasma Screen you have in your bedroom?" Erm etc...
There is nothing like a Dame and in the world of pantomime, there is no Dame quite like Christopher Biggins! He has a Lifetime Achievement Award to prove it. "Oh yes he does!"
Now in his early 70s, Christopher has been performing in pantomime for 50 years. When he first entered Dame land in Darlington all those years ago, the ticket price was under two bob (less than 8p in today’s currency). However Biggins as the star of the show was rewarded more like a professional footballer!
Perhaps that’s why Christopher Biggins’ dream car and 'Clearing' is riding around in a Bentley Continental convertible! Indeed this podcast is conducted with Christopher Biggins in the back and with me Chris Grimes as his imaginary Chauffeur!
Biggins is inspired by the wit and wisdom of the late Oscar Wilde. One particular Wilde quote springs to mind after listening to this particular conversation: “I have the simplest of tastes. I am always satisfied with the best.”
Christopher Biggins has had a truly fabulous life and he appreciates it wholeheartedly. His parents made sacrifices to send him to private school where Mrs Christian’s elocution lessons smoothed out his West Country burr and prepared him vocally for a travelling actor’s life. Whether in Birmingham or Barbados, our Christopher has worked virtually nonstop ever since.
A potential petrolhead and pyromaniac, he played Nero in "I Claudius". He played the sex-crazed Vicar in Poldark. He played Lukewarm in Porridge, with Ronnie Barker and Richard Beckinsale. In Rep, in Salisbury and in Bristol, he played umpteen different characters - that was the beauty of Repertory theatre.
For London Weekend Television, Biggins was co-compère with Cilla Black in ‘Surprise! Surprise!’ Over the years, he has worked wit
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11 Jan 2023
137 Brand Strand & Founder Story: David Hieatt, Co-Founder of The DO Lectures & Hiut Denim & Serial Entrepreneur. “There is No Short Cut To Success. Tomorrow We Go Again”
Delighted to welcome for the 1st of the ALL NEW for 2023 "The Good Listening To Show: Stories of Distinction & Genius" the wonderful, wise and inspiring serial entrepreneur and polymath David Hieatt.
David writes wonderful copy on LinkedIn and Twitter and as co-founder of the global Community "The DO Lectures" - Curated gatherings that will inspire you to DO - he reaches an extremely large audience indeed:
"DO exists to help you get from where you are now to where you could be. Our talks will help you make that journey. There is gold here. Stories with heart, ideas and insight. These talks can be your mentor. Some have been watched over 150 million times.
The stories shared at DO always bear witness to what’s happening in the world at large. They are told by some of the most progressive DOers and disruptors of our times. But even so they don’t paint perfect pictures. They are raw, honest and vulnerable. Human. Like us all.
And they are free. No advertising, no sponsorships, no hidden agendas. Just incredible, inspiring talks.
The idea is a simple one. We gather together the world’s great DOers, disruptors and changemakers, have them share their hearts and stories, and encourage others to go and DO amazing things too.
It’s been an incredible journey, and over the years many great mavericks and masters have stepped foot on the DO stage to tell their tales. From craftsmen to technologists, digital entrepreneurs to food champions. All are challengers of thought. Provokers of debate. Firestarters, risk-takers and gamechangers.
But most of all they are human. And we challenge them as we challenge you. We ask them to give the talk of their lives. One they haven’t done before. One that makes them open up and be vulnerable. That shares pain as well as progress. Heart and hope, as well as ideas and insight.
So, not easy. But then, our speakers have never settled for easy"
More about David in his own words:
Bankrupt at 16. Thrown out of college at 18. Joined Saatchi and Saatchi at 21. Had a ball. Left advertising to go back to Wales. Started howies in 1995. Sold it to Timberland. Left. Started The DO Lectures, which was voted one of the top 10 ideas festivals in the world by the Guardian. And in 2012 started a company making jeans called The Hiut Denim Co. in his hometown of Cardigan. A town that used to have Britain’s biggest jeans factory. Its purpose is to get 400 people their jobs back. As of today, it now employs 27 people.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
16 Jan 2023
138 Patrick Dexter, Irish Cellist & Social Media Sensation: The Story Of How A School Teacher 'Went Viral' By Going Home To Playing His Cello Along Irelands Wild Atlantic West Coast During the Pandemic
Delighted to welcome Irish viral cello sensation Patrick Dexter to The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing' for a truly remarkable story of 'distinction & genius'. Also featuring in this very special episode, 3 of Patrick's original Cello tracks that "moved Eamonn Holmes to tears!"
This is the extraordinary and heart-warming story of a humble Irish Cello Teacher (to a small Gaelic class of 7 year olds) being told that "school was closed indefinitely for lockdown" one minute, to becoming a global Social Media sensation the next, by going home to play his Cello along Ireland's wild Atlantic West coast: A story of going viral, just like the pandemic, as he played!
"In 2020, as countries around the world began to lock down, Patrick began playing music from his cottage and sharing it online. Since then his performances have been viewed millions of times and his music became a needed comfort for countless numbers of people all over the world.
Patrick has performed on CNN, BBC, ITV, Sky News, Global News Canada, RTÉ, Virgin Media, TG4. In April 2022 his debut album Solace reached No. 15 in the Billboard US and Canada album charts for classical-crossover albums making Patrick the highest selling independent artist in the genre and asserting his place as one of the world’s top cello players.
"Patrick’s cello sings amongst the nature outside his old stone cottage. The wild Atlantic breeze takes the warm sound up into the hills and out to the ocean. Patrick’s diverse repertoire of Irish traditional, classical and modern pop music, is all played with passion and virtuosic intensity.
Incredible, tender, powerful, raw, passionate, sensual, just perfect!”
-Oscar winning songwriter Markéta Irglová
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ladies n' Genminminminmin (er, min...) absolutely thrilled & delighted to welcome UK Athletics Legend & Champion Roger Black MBE to the Good Listening To Show, for a classic bit of comedy & synergy! Allow me to explain!
Literally 2 days after I had had the idea of "passing the Golden Baton" within my podcast structure, I had Roger Black in my Clearing, where I could award him AT LAST with Olympic Gold, having only managed to win Silver the 1st time in the 4x100 M Relay race, overtaken as he was, back in the day, by the Usain Bolt of his day, USA Olympic Legend Michael Jordan!
So here to receive his Golden Baton - at last - is Roger Black MBE!
More about Roger Black:
Roger Black’s athletic career almost never got started - twice! The first occasion was a medical check aged 11, at school, that revealed a potentially dangerous heart condition - a leaky valve. Even though there were no previous symptoms, the powers that be took him off all games immediately.
The next occasion came with his A level results. Roger needed three Bs to secure his place at university. What he got was an A in biology, a B in chemistry and a D in maths. Without ever realising it at the time, that D delayed him ever starting his journey to become a doctor, yet created the opportunity to explore another path completely - as a potentially world-class athlete. The doctors were now happy to let him do this, if that was what he wanted. It was!
He ran competitively for his county and when he went into serious training, he was competing internationally within two months. Roger started running with Chris Akabusi and he believes his colleague’s speed helped him to run faster. This is a life lesson for Roger: if you want to improve your personal performance, surround yourself with the best possible people in that field so that you have to raise your game in order to keep up with them. As they say of racehorses, any horse looks fast running past bushes!
In Roger’s trophy cabinet you will find gold medals for Europe and the World and a Silver medal in the Olympics on the last possible occasion for him for it. No mean achievement for a lad with a leaky heart valve! Other achievements include winning Celebrity Master Mind and acquiring Daley Thompson as a fan of his guitar playing! Music and nature mean a lot to Roger Black as he moves purposefully towards the end of his sixth decade.
Moving is a key issue as we get older, says Roger. “If you’re in the Olympics, the date of the final is always in sharp focus. But if you’re no longer in a competitive situation, you need to redefine your Why?” You need to focus on what you can control and make the most of every day. Exercise is freely available to everyone. Its benefits are beyond question. “Give it a go!” That is the advice from this exce
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Saikat Ahamed is a UK based Actor, writer & poet of Bangladeshi descent based in Bristol. He has just finished a 6 month stint in the London West End Production of "Life of Pi" and locally, here in Bristol, he is most famous for having played Tinkerbell (in a pink Tu-Tu!) in the Bristol Old Vic Production of "Peter Pan", directed by renowned theatre director Sally Cookson.
He was born in Surrey to Bangladeshi parents Hashi and Masud, and grew up in Birmingham, where he attended King Edwards School.
After studying a degree in Journalism at Cardiff University, he went on to train at The Actors Company under David Harris and John Jones. In 2006, having won the BBC Norman Beaton Fellowship, Saikat moved to Bristol with his family. Since then, Saikat has starred in theatre, film, TV and radio as well as working as a writer for stage and radio too.
Saikat developed his first play, Corala, with Birmingham Rep and his first radio drama, Telling Tales, was commissioned by the BBC in 2011 and aired on the BBC Asian Network. Initially conceived as a piece of ‘Asian storytelling’, Saikat subsequently wrote a play concerned with young people in a pupil referral unit and a teacher who uses the power of stories he grew up with to connect with them.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
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07 Feb 2023
141 A Life in Miniature! Montana Heoron, Head of Brand at Hornby Hobbies, To Tell Us All About Exciting TV Times Ahead, With Series 2 of "Hornby: A Model World"
Full steam ahead! Ladies n' Genminminminmin (er, min...) please welcome the delightful Montana Hoeren, Head of Brand at Hornby Hobbies, to tell us all about exciting new TV Times coming down the track, with the launch of Series 2 of the ever popular TV Series "Hornby: A Model World"
Hornby's story of "Distinction & Genius" has been bringing pleasure and delight to families everywhere for generations, spanning an extraordinary 120 year history which all began in Liverpool with Hornby's great grandfather Frank Hornby in 1901.
The 2nd series of the "Hornby: A Model World" comprises of 11 new 1 hour episodes going behind the scenes at Hornby, Britain's best loved model making company, to reveal 'how they do it': How they go about shrinking mighty trains, planes & automobiles to create a new generation of miniature masterpieces in the worlds of Airfix, Corgi , Scalextric & Hornby.
With Hornby train set superfans including Pete Waterman & Jules Holland.
Montana is here to tell us all about it...
More about Montana:
This is a fascinating mix of young Montana Hoerem and iconic English Hornby evolution. Montana Hoerem is a working writer, who has now enjoyed a good 8 years with the 100 year old Hornby group, rising to a leadership role as Head of Brand.
Her enthusiasm is infectious. Her knowledge is impressive. Her optimism is persuasive. Her smiling voice is a constant tonic! And she has her own family back story, too. Her mother was born in Montana, hence her name. Her father returned to Australia before Montana was born. Don’t worry - Montana has not just survived, she has thrived.
She has an MA in Creative Writing and she is totally committed to the opportunity of lifelong learning. Was it not Albert Einstein who suggested that the two essential elements for a great life are love and work? Montana loves her work, loves her family and her colleagues. She loves words. She loves running. She loves ideas. She also loves cake! All kinds of cake!
Montana is heard here promoting a new 11 episode series on TV that takes the viewer behind the scenes at the Hornby headquarters in Margate and introduces some of the company’s most celebrated customers. including Pete Waterman and Jules Holland.
At Hornby, there is now an excellent portfolio of other heritage brands, including Airfix, Humbril and Scalextric. How delighted the original founder, Frank Hornby, would be to see how his original high quality model railway idea has grown broader and better than he could have possibly imagined. Now it is even trending on TikTok! It is becoming much more of a family hobby, involving imaginative layout, scenery and realism, rather than a predominantly solitary activity.
100 years young, Hornby Is offering 21st century miniature enthusiasts a br
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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14 Feb 2023
142 Pantomime Legend, Actor & Improviser Jon Monie: On All Things Wishee-Washee & Being Jon Monie in 'Stories of Distinction' LIVE from The Egg Theatre, Theatre Royal Bath
In the second experiment of "The Good Listening To Show: Stories of Distinction & Genius" going LIVE as a Theatre Show, please welcome Theatre Royal Bath Pantomime legend Jon Monie, who joined me in front of a live audience, complete with Q&A and simultaneous streaming as we recorded to Facebook & YouTube.
Jon is an award-winning actor and writer. He is also a regular improviser in INSTANT WIT and an occasional table!
Monie by name but certainly not moany by nature. Jon claims to have inherited wit from his father and anxiety from his mother. That analysis by itself reveals his quirky sense of humour. He was educated at King Edward’s school in Bath, which in those days specialised in producing excellent middle class professional material - doctors, lawyers, accountants - rather than architects, actors or writers. The school’s attitude and facilities have changed a lot since then. Jon studied drama and found a second family in amateur dramatics.
Unhappy as a teenager, he sought solace and creative satisfaction in a company called ‘Musical Youth’. He then started a promising career in regional television, not as an actor but as a popular presenter.
His popularity earned Jon an invitation to Pantomime, so when the tide turned against regional TV, Jon had cultivated a new career on stage - acting and writing, inspired and guided by the legendary Chris Harris. You could say that from that point onwards, Jon never looked back. But there is a reflective side to Jon Monie, too. He recalls his own mental health issues and the help he received from an anonymous female therapist - who, ironically, he was originally highly unwilling to see. At the lighter end of the spectrum, Jon joyfully recalls collecting pictures of himself with a range of animal lilos while on holiday with his husband, Dean.
To this day, Jon’s idea of heaven is lying peacefully on a plain blue lilo, in a private pool, with headphones on, listening to 12 minute tracks from Genesis in their hey days - the 1970s. Music soothes his savage breast! Jon has also been a backing singer, more than once, for that popular West Country group, the Worsels!
In the real world, Jon is fascinated by the buttons that would confront him in, say, a recording studio or in an aircraft cockpit. And on the subject of buttons, he also acknowledges that in Panto, the character Buttons suffers resignedly with unrequited love for Cinderella. Jon Monie has a romantic side too, it seems!
At its best, Panto is tri-generational - in other words, it appeals to children, their parents and their grandparents. Popular TV likewise. Jon’s rubbery face and jiggly eyes mean that while he may not be a contender for the next James Bond, he has massive tri-generational potential.
Paul Eddington, who was so brilliant in ‘Yes, Mini
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Ladies n' Genminminmin (er, min...) please welcome Kate Cross (MBE) Director of The Egg Theatre at Bath Theatre Royal in the inaugural 'History in the Making' 1st ever LIVE Theatre Show recording of "The Good Listening To Show: Stories of Distinction & Genius" with simultaneous streaming to Facebook & YouTube.
Behind every smile, there’s a story! Kate Cross was awarded her MBE for services to Children’s Theatre at the Egg in Bath. The same stage that presented an award-winning production of "The Little Mermaid", today hosted the first ever theatrical version of the ‘Good Listening to Show’ and podcast, recorded here live for a UK Health Radio audience of 1.3 million regular listeners + the possibility of reaching some of the 700 million podcast listeners now linked to UKHR by leading platforms around the world!
Slightly worrying then that Kate Cross claims not to enjoy either formal interviews, nor even to answering questions?! On the basis of her articulate performance today, that feeling must be nothing more than a self-limiting belief, unsubstantiated by any obvious facts!
Perhaps it goes back to her private school days, in the Shires, which were certainly not the happiest days of Kate’s young life? In her words: ‘It was not an Enid Blyton experience!’ Perhaps it is part of her perceived - or real! - need to prove herself, as a civilised feminist, worthy of her own good fortune, on a daily basis? Certainly, when Kate was summoned to see the Director of the Bath Theatre Royal, Danny Moor, in her early days in her new role, her first thought was that she must have done something wrong!
It was a wonderful surprise instead when she was told that the Board was considering the possibility of tripling her budget - but first they needed to be advised what she would do with the funds, if and when they became available? In answer to this very challenging question, Kate immediately said: ‘Buy the cinema about to become available and convert it into a theatre, committing the space entirely to offering children excellent quality theatrical entertainment.’ The Board endorsed the idea almost instantaneously and the rest, as they say, is history.
Kate claims that many of her best ideas come to her when she is travelling by train. As the scenery glides by, the ideas just keep popping up, apparently! Kate’s mother married when she was 21 and cultivated Kate’s core hard-work ethic. (Her own daughter is now 21 and takes an entirely opposite view! But that’s ok with Kate.)
If Kate’s integrity is inspired by her mother, her entrepreneurial approach to risk-taking most probably comes directly from her father. For Kate, how you deal with failures shapes you as much as how you choose to diet! Cooking is perhaps a surprisingly good form of relaxation for Kate, a ‘defragging’ experience, a
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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17 Feb 2023
144 Actor Cal MacAninch: Atlantic Rowing Superhero & Legend, on the profound lessons-learned from rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, as part of the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge
Proud and delighted to welcome BACK for a second row past - with the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean for his 'Clearing', Scottish Actor Cal MacAninch, here to describe his Epic Quest and the profound lessons-learned from having just rowed 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean in a Crew of 5, as part of "Atlantic Body & Soul" for the Talisker Whisker Atlantic Challenge.
A story of Distinction & Genius indeed: Massive waves, sleep deprivation, pain, flying fish and hallucinations akimbo to name but some of what was experienced during an epic quest of 39 days and gargantuan proportions.
Cal MacaAninch is a wonderful & versatile Scottish Actor and now an Atlantic Rowing Superhero & Legend to boot (or to boat - see what I'm doing there?!)
More about Cal:
Whatever Cal MacAninch has achieved as an actor - and the body of his work is impressive - he now has a rare achievement indeed to add, as a rower. Cal has just rowed the Atlantic! And this is no mean achievement - for almost 40 days, Cal and the other 4 crew members set about this extraordinary journey in consecutive 2 hour shifts, 24/7. The effects of daily sleep deprivation and almost endless, constantly painful physical exercise are virtually unimaginable.
Fortunately for us, Cal MacAninch has an actor’s memory and a wonderful way with with words. This podcast focuses relentlessly on his one truly epic and almost certainly life-changing experience.
Cal tells us about the constant need for calories and hydration, up to 6000 every day and endless refreshment. Yet the impact still left everyone in a state that Cal describes as ‘breakdown’ and in his case, the witness of numerous totally lifelike hallucinations.
The whole journey was undertaken to raise money for two chosen charities whose primary purpose is to improve mental health care for young people - but the crew’s own mental health was severely tested in the process! Cal is now debriefing his personal experience to a leading neurological scientist in Scotland.
He acknowledges that it was was an ordeal but one that changed him - for the better! It left him he believes, with a better perspective: a more tolerant attitude, a kinder man, a better listener.
Hear it all here for yourself. It is a truly extraordinary story - and it’s all true! Harrowing though it is at times, Cal MacAninch tells it calmly and quietly but with a refreshing brand of candour and his own uniquely authentic Scottish sincerity.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Layer upon layer, story upon story. Seldom has so much been packed into a conversation as is packed into this one here with Robin Ince.
Occasionally it unravels briefly but mostly it is an exhilarating roller coaster ride of ideas and opinions and tributes to people, who may be famous or otherwise. What they have in common is the individual impression they have made on the impressionable mind of Robin Ince.
He is an ‘open book’, who confesses to having had a ‘noisy head’ all his life. Only in the last three years, since he accepted a diagnosis of ADHD, has the anxiety become more understandable and therefore more acceptable.
Robin’s public persona, as a comedian and as a writer, provides him with permission to express his frequently weird thoughts whenever he wants. He feels under less pressure nowadays to normalise his behaviour than say if he were a civil servant.
He can accept his ‘haywire mind’. He accepts his lack of physical dexterity. He knows he is not ‘socially adept’. He suggests that ‘unbearable social values’ may be the root cause of many people’s feelings of nervousness, insecurity and anxiety.
In days gone by, Robin could be stopped in his tracks by the critical voices in his head and the melancholy they brought with them. Now he recognises them for what they are, he feels safer. He has more energy to appreciate each passing moment.
Robin is shaped and inspired by famous names like Alexei Sayle, Kurt Vonnegut, Barry Crimmins and Paula Rego. But also by people totally unknown to the general public, like Jamie ‘the autistic stranger’ or the 24 year old, who cried at a book-signing but found comfort in what he had to say…
Robin is characterised by curiosity and compassion. His odd-couple relationship with Professor Brian Cox in ‘The Infinite Monkey Cage’, is grounded in mutual respect for their differences in expertise and style, while being held together by their sense of wonder at everything which surrounds them.
Robin admits to being silent when seeing a therapist whose training discouraged her from prompting him. Naturally, he feels he probably talks too fast and too much. He knows he goes off on too many tangents. Robin is hypersensitive as well as hyperactive! He means you no harm.
He just wants you to share his enthusiasm and be glad you crossed each other’s path. Love and kindness, courtesy and compassion. Joie de vivre!
As Kurt Vonnegut himself once put it, in one of his novels: “Godammit, you’ve got to be kind!”
Then the road to personal peace really can be paved with good intentions.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Please welcome to 'The Clearing' Performance Poet Toby Thompson. Toby was passed the 'Golden Baton' to be my Guest by Egg Theatre Director Kate Cross MBE, who I interviewed recently for "The Good Listening To Show" LIVE at the Theatre Royal Bath.
Toby is a thoughtful, thought-provoking & enigmatic 'observer' of life, with a unique cadence and a silky tone. His poetry displays his delight in life's uncertainties & ambiguities. His uniquely rhythmic and musical style is lyrical, beguiling, playful & poignant. Toby also performs 2 of his wonderful poems as part of this interview: "Spinning Plates" & "Tears".
BEAUTIFUL INSPIRING WORDSMITHERY Toby Thompson is a writer and performer of thoughts and feelings. Not just his own, but somehow yours too. His poetry displays his delight in life’s uncertainties and absurdities and his uniquely rhythmic and musical style is lyrical, beguiling, playful and poignant.
"...a wonderful gift for language, a deep sensibility and a penetrating sense of perspective."
Sir Ken Robinson. Renowned Educationalist and Creativity Expert
More about Toby Thompson: Toby Thompson is the indirect descendant of the 19th Century Liberal Prime Minister, Wiliam Ewart Gladstone.
Today Toby himself is a truly extraordinary contemporary creative talent. A distinguished performance poet by profession, with a love of music on the side - an articulate and passionately vocal wordsmith whose distinctive voice expresses the brilliant words that his complicated brain has put together in unique new sequences and surprising new rhymes and rhythms.
Even traditionally written poetry benefits from being lifted from the black type on the white page and read aloud by someone, who understands what the poet originally had in mind. That’s true whether you’re talking about the plays of William Shakespeare or the popular poetry of Roger McGough.
With Toby Thompson, he rehearses his own original poems repeatedly in his head, until he’s happy with them, then remembers them and only when satisfied, will he express them directly and distinctively to a live audience in a theatre - or alternatively record them on a video for posterity.
In his primary school, the teachers called young Toby ‘the observer’. To this day he finds inspiration in strange places, everywhere, in conversations, in audio recordings, in football commentaries, as well as in contemplating impermanence and vastness. He acknowledges the wisdom of Jung: “That which you most need will be found where you least want to look.”
Now the
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
I first came across James via his wonderful Twitter feed @JamesAHogg2
James Hogg is a biographer, ghostwriter and collaborator who specialises in sport and entertainment.
Born in the Yorkshire Dales, he began his writing career whilst working for the Yorkshire County Cricket Club where he spent several years masquerading as the club’s Commercial Manager. In between failed attempts at securing sponsors and smoking with Brian Close, James wrote two acclaimed biographies whilst at Headingley. The first, ‘What’s the Bleeding Time?’ discloses the life and times of the actor and naturalist James Robertson Justice and features a foreword by H.R.H The Duke of Edinburgh. The second, ‘Little Ern: The Authorised Biography of Ernie Wise’, was a collaboration with the writer of Hellraisers, Robert Sellers, as was James’s next book, ‘Hello Darlings! The Authorised Biography of Kenny Everett’. James left Headingley in 2012, after which the club began to flourish both on and off the pitch.
James lives in Yorkshire with his wife and two children.
More about James Hogg:
James Hogg is an extraordinary man. He does not attract conventional labels. He says he is someone who writes. But he does not see himself as a Writer! And he is not a Reader, either. He does not have a Social Media Presence, apart from a tiny corner on Twitter.
He does not have a slick website selling his significant skills as a wordsmith and original ideas man. He has absolutely no ambition to write a single word of fiction. Instead he applies his considerable imagination to facts and helps others to tell their stories in a voice that sounds like theirs, not his.
He is a contrary but not confrontational North Yorkshireman, who is good at making enough money to sustain his unconventional lifestyle. This includes regular trips to Brazil and Gran Canaria to get his words down against the deadline.
James Hogg was born in Coverdale. His parents were involved in horses and horse racing. It did not appeal to him. He left school at 15, with no academic qualifications. He left home at 17, borrowing £30 to cover the coach to London and still have a few quid spare for emergencies.
He immediately got a job as a Bell Boy at the Cumberland Hotel, doubling his basic wages with freelance services in support of visitors from the Middle
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Delighted to welcome prolific Children's Author & Editor Steve Cole to The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing' for his story of Distinction & Genius.
With over 150 titles and book series to his name including the hugely successful UK Children's Books Top 10 list "Astrosaurs" and also "Young Bond", as the natural successor to Charlie Higson as invited by the Ian Fleming Foundation to continue the series: "The name's Cole - Steve Cole" (see what I'm doing there?!)
With lovely Oliver Postgate (Narrator of "Bagpuss" & "The Clangers") vocal tones to match. Despite having 150 titles to his name, hear how "prevarication is still his super power!" in hitting the housework hard as deadline's approach "like Doodlebugs humming overhead!"
A very enjoyable conversation indeed!
More about Steve Cole:
Steve Cole is a fascinating, multifaceted, deadline-driven character: a slow worker but a fast talker! The author of literally dozens of different books, who claims that “procrastination is part of the process.”
He is someone who turns to Salsa to unlock his Writer’s Block and plays in a 30 years’ old band called ‘Faces Fall’ to express another aspect of his bubbling creativity. A self-confessed pedant who has been ‘riddled with hernias’ most of his life and the occasional attack of repetitive strain injury. (Is there any psychosomatic connection there one has to wonder?)
Steve Cole is someone with a lively mind and a truly encyclopaedic knowledge of Dr Who, who attributes his story-telling success to his English teacher, Mr Hall and a lot of his professional success to the Dr Who legend, Terence Dicks - who honoured him with a dedication!
Also in Steve’s inspirational trio is Charles M. Schultz, creator of one of the world’s most popular and longest running cartoon strips - Peanuts. (Good grief, what a talent!) Marvel comics and the Incredible Hulk also come in for honourable mentions.
“We are all stories in the end. Make it a good one” - these are Steve’s choice of words to live by.
Now he tells good stories for the Ian Fleming Foundation and entertains children in schools in interactive communication sessions. The Young Bond is now created by an old pro - if that doesn’t sound too Ageist?
One, two, three, one, two - over to you, maestro!
Reg Starkey Editor, UK Health Triangle Magazine
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
17 Apr 2023
149 Dan Tsu from Lyrix Organix: Event Producer Extraordinaire & Curator of Legendary 'Rum Shack' Venue at Glastonbury Festival, Working With The Likes of Ed Sheeran, Akala & Kate Tempest
Delighted to welcome legendary Event Producer & Creative Director Dan Tsu to 'The Clearing'. Dan was passed the "Golden Baton" to be here in the 'Clearing' by Performance Poet Toby Thompson.
Dan is an Event Producer, Live Promoter, International Facilitator & Teacher of Event Management.
Co-founder of the infamous Glastonbury Festival venue "Rum Shack", he has being hosting innovative and independent live shows for the last 15 years. Dan holds a reputation for championing and collaborating with young talent, working closely with the likes of Ed Sheeran, Akala & Kate Tempest, to name but some of many many more.
Dan is also founder & director of the Live Events & Education company Lyrix Organix: A design consultancy for groundbreaking programmes, working collaboratively with major youth organisations and charities.
Lyrix Organix uses rap, poetry, music & and cross-disciplinary approaches to amplify social action.
When Dan Tsu describes himself as a ‘Jack of all Trades’ he does not begin to do himself justice. As his name may suggest, Dan is mixed heritage: Anglo-Chinese, Singapore British, Hong Kong Chinese.
At school Dan began to hone a particular skill in being able to be both an 'outlier' and an 'inlier', able to get the best from relationships around him. He made friends easily, with an ability to be able to move freely between a variety of different ethnic and religious groups, who all tended to sit in different corners of the classroom and not necessarily mix with each other in the playground. Dan was a free spirit, without an obvious ego, therefore able to weave his way into all kinds of diverse and interesting circles.
He has always been inspired by words, poetry and by music like hip-hop and rap. His signature venue "Rum Shack" at the Glastonbury Festival is particularly important to him, as is Glastonbury implicitly for its unique authenticity & ‘irreplaceable and indescribable’ spirit.
Dan created early opportunities for the now superstar singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran and the rising star performance-poet, Toby Thompson, as well as scores of others.
Dan does not speak Chinese but he is still inspired by the iconic Chinese artist and activist Ai Wei Wei. Dan’s personal goal is to ‘change the world in small ways.’
As a facilitator, educator, events producer and creative director, Dan Tsu is creating his own dynamic legacy, on a daily basis. He is delighted when people acknowledge the difference he has made to their lives - which people regularly do now, in random encounters, on average now once or twice a week!
Dan sees himself as a Londoner. Happy both in the darkest corner of a lively nightclub or in the solitude of ancient woodland in Dulwich.
An extraordinary & distinctive story indeed.
Enjo
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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24 Apr 2023
150 'Founder Story' Iain Thackrah Creative Mentor to Creative Entrepreneurs, On How Building Something for Yourself is the Best Decision You Will Ever Make: "Start. Do It. Get it Made!"
Delighted to welcome the wonderfully wise and enigmatic Iain Thackrah to the 'Clearing' for a special 'Founder Story' Episode of the show, in which we uncover together the story of "who-the-what-the-how-the-why" of why you do what you do!
Iain is a creative mentor to creative entrepreneurs. Writer, speaker, creative. Creative generalist. Creative specialist. Jack of all trades, master of some.
Iain Thackrah’s extraordinary commercial life really did begin at 40. He started his ordinary life as a child on his father’s farm in Yorkshire, with a pig for a pet and a bike to take him to the nearest town, 13 miles away for a McDonald’s.
It was idyllic until it wasn’t. His father lost all his sheep, lost all his cows, lost all his cash and eventually also lost the farm itself. Perhaps in response to this, Iain prolonged his student days right up until the age of 27, picking up a small clutch of degrees in the process, before teaching Philosophy and Psychology for the next 10 years.
In time, he became a clock-watcher, seeing himself in older colleagues in the Staff room - and not liking what he saw. When he’d had all he could take of such a secure career choice, Iain joined a startup Newco, on a six figure salary - until it folded beneath him. Iain was back at Square Zero!
On the credit side, he had an awesome wife and two beautiful daughters. He also had his health and his house. But on the debit side, he was very light on any other material assets and his prospects were, at best, unpredictable. Fortunately Iain thrives on challenges like this. He has no ambition to be like ‘most people’ or to behave like ‘most people’ do. Iain’s ethos revolves around achieving lots and lots of ‘small wins’ and accumulating them consistently, on a daily basis.
Iain talks about the compound interest created by this series of ‘small wins’. These produce compound interest that in time adds up to a different kind of ‘Big Win’. “By the inch, it’s a cinch. By the yard, it’s hard”
Iain is committed to helping Creative Entrepreneurs grow the commercial side of their businesses. His coaching company only wants a maximum of 30 clients at any one time. Iain is the complete opposite of the ‘never mind the quality, see the width’ school of thought.
His publishing company is not interested in producing potboiler best-sellers. Brilliant limited editions appeal more to Iain’s unusu
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
What happens when you combine the power of music, visual art, and the lessons learned from martial arts? You’ll find out in our conversation with the extraordinary Renell Shaw, an Ivor Novello award-winning composer, songwriter, and music producer. Renell takes us on a fascinating journey through his life and creative process, revealing how he uses a daily walk to clear his mind and let his music emerge authentically.
Renell’s diverse influences, including theatre, martial arts, and mentorships, have not only shaped his personal development but have also played a crucial role in his approach to music. Join us as we discuss "The Windrush Suite", a captivating trilogy in the making, and explore the impact of the Windrush generation on Caribbean families in the 60s. Plus, you'll hear about the unique collaboration between Renell and his wife, as they blend bass and tap dancing in a mesmerizing performance.
As we delve deeper into Renell's creative world, we also discuss the potential of combining music and animation, and the joy of playing music with other musicians. Renell shares his favorite inspirational quote from Einstein and the best piece of advice he's ever received. So grab your headphones and get ready for an insightful and inspiring journey with the remarkable Renell Shaw!
Renell Shaw is a nature lover as well as an extraordinary musician, who has found a way to live his life in balance and in harmony, on a daily basis. He starts each day with a meditative walk and allows the music to reveal itself to him. In earlier days, Renell used to strive to make things happen. Today he trusts in the process that he has developed. It works for him! His grandfather was a trumpet player, who was inspired by Louis Armstrong and Dizzy Gillespie. His godfather was an expert in martial arts. His father was a sound engineer. His mother gave him his first Carlos Santana record as a teenager, which inspired Renell to learn to play the guitar, while she continues to provide him with lifelong encouragement. Renell won the Ivor Novello award for his work on the Windrush Suite, which was commissioned before pandemic restrictions changed everybody’s lives. So far Renell has written the first two of a Windrush trilogy - a Griot yet to be completed At the time of this conversation, he is waiting for the music to reveal itself to him. Given his Caribbean family of origin, Renell starts from the enviable position of wanting to express the Windrush story from the inside out rather than the outside in. Quincy Jones provides Renell Shaw with his ideal role model for a multitalented musical career. Collaboration and community are concepts that appeal to Renell, who has his fav
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
What happens when you merge an a cappella vocal virtuoso with a passion for storytelling and a love for connecting with audiences? You get the enchanting Kate Dimbleby! Join me as we explore Kate's incredible journey, from her album 'Songbird' to her recent performance with Gifford's Circus during the Royal Variety Performance, and her co-founding of the storytelling software platform Stornaway.io
Kate and I dive deep into the power of imagination and the significance of holding onto our inner truth. We discuss the importance of pushing one's own boundaries and how our voices can create a powerful noise if we let them out. Moreover, we touch on Kate's life-changing move to Canada, her discovery of the Alexander Technique, and her journey to her creative center point.
Kate's warmth, generosity, and creativity shine through in every moment of our discussion, and her passion for storytelling is nothing short of contagious. Tune in and be inspired by the captivating world of Kate Dimbleby.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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27 Jun 2023
153 Stella Taliadoros, Angelic Reiki Practitioner & Curator of the "I'm Lost Too!" Arts Movement: An Exploration of Psycho-Spiritual Healing, Helping Others Through Community & Getting Shit Done!
Ladies n' Genminminmin (er, min...) please welcome the magical Stella Taliadoros to 'The Clearing'. Stella was "Passed the Golden Baton" to be in the show by Ivor Novello Award Winning Musician & Composer, Renell Shaw.
Ever found yourself lost in the hustle of life and seeking a path that aligns your soul with the universe? Stella Taliadoros, an Angelic Reiki practitioner, illuminates our show with her journey of self-discovery and growth. We journey with her from therapy sessions to her mystical community space, "The Twelfth House", where Stella helps others navigate their spiritual paths. Stay tuned as she also reveals the charm of her favorite reflective spot, Caffercito Organico in California as her 'Clearing'.
Stella is also the Curator of the Artistic Movement called "I'm Lost Too!" acknowledging that "we're all lost and in search somehow," but remember: "All those who wander are not necessarily lost!" and Stella can help with that!
Our discussion takes an intriguing turn as we delve into how Autumn seasons, food preferences, and social influences shape our lives. Stella sheds light on the significance of the mind-body connection with food, her experience with warm Greek Cypriot hospitality, and the community-building prowess of her café, Win Wood Art District. Don't miss out as she takes us on an exploration of her brand "I'm Lost To," her favorite quote, and the most impactful advice she's ever received.
Our enlightening conversation with Stella extends to the realm of psycho-spiritual healing, as we discuss her journey with Angelic Reiki and how it can be integrated with Counselling.
We also explore the critical roles creativity and nature play in our lives.
Stella's story invites us to reflect on our own narrative, emphasizing the power of storytelling in understanding oneself.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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30 Jun 2023
Feeding Change: Melanie Vaxevanakis, Trailblazing Founder of the Bristol 'Mazi Project' on Helping Marginalised 16-24 Year Olds 'Back To The Dinner Table' by Gaining Access to Better Food & Nutrition Through the Power of Community
Delighted to welcome the trailblazing changemaker Melanie Vaxevanakis from the Bristol based Mazi Project, on a mission to help marginalised 16-25 year olds gain better access to more nutritional food, food education and self-care - and in a nutshell, 'bring them to the Dinner Table', with all the mental health benefits that the power of sharing & community can bring.
From FUMING to ACTION! A story about how the Mazi Project was born, inspired by Mel's noticing the appalling quality of free school lunch provision being provided to families at the beginning of the Pandemic, to now shipping 70 boxes a day of fresh fruit, vegetables and a recipe card to young people who wouldn't otherwise have access or have been able to afford it.
Now two-and-a-half years on, complete with Maisie Williams “Game of Thrones” Actress (who also grew up in Bristol) as Charity Ambassador on board, the Mazi Project is going from strength-to-strength.
With Maisie Williams on board, it’s not so much “Game of Thrones” as “Game of Nom-Noms”! (See what I’m doing there?!)
Pull up a chair and prepare to be inspired as we share a compelling conversation with the remarkable Melanie Vaxevanakis.
Drawing on her Greek roots and Bristol surroundings, Melanie, founder of the Mazi Project, passionately discusses her journey from documenting stories through film to creating a powerful initiative that dishes out 70 fresh, nutritious recipes a week to young people in need.
Melanie's story is one of anger, transformation, and ultimately, impact - as she took her frustrations with inadequate government-provided food packages and channelled it into a project that nourishes bodies and minds.
Finding solace in her 'Clearings' - the kitchen and the sea - Melanie reveals how these spaces nourish her creative energy and inspire her work with the Mazi Project.
Beyond just providing sustenance, she's determined to build a community space that reduces social isolation, fosters confidence, and empowers every participant to feel extraordinary.
While the Pandemic may have been the catalyst for Melanie's journey, it's also been a lesson in resilience and the importance of mental wellbeing, a lesson she's keen to share with her listeners.
From the power of protests to the significant moment the Colston statue was dropped into Bristol harbour, Melanie's insights shed light on the potency of collective action and the need for continued social justice work.
We also dive into personal distractions, strategies for overcoming them, and explore the transformative power of storytelling.
Wrapping up the episode, Melanie shar
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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03 Jul 2023
Actress Lucy Briers on the Impact of Having a Very Famous UK TV Actor Father, Majestic Recovery After Betrayal & Divorce & the Poignant 'De-Tethering' of her Mother’s Alzheimer’s
Ladies n' Genminminmin (er, min...) please welcome Award Winning Actress & fellow Bristol Old Vic Theatre School Alumni, Lucy Briers to 'The Clearing'.
Lucy is from Theatre & Show Business Aristocracy here in the UK, as she is the daughter of Richard Briers, the famous UK TV Actor and National Treasure, now sadly no longer with us, but listen with delight as Lucy describes her joy and luck at having her very own 'Dad cupboard: With 250 or so DVDs, capturing his wonderful career on screen, if ever she needs a 'top-up' to watch him speak and move!
Lucy Briers chooses Sheep Meadow, Central Park Manhattan as her ‘Soul City’ and as her 'Clearing'.
Despite her ‘weird blood disorder’, Lucy is almost always smiling or chuckling - even when dealing with big or bittersweet issues. Like her father Richard’s fame and popularity interfering with their walks together as a child or her mother’s progressive Alzheimer’s disease changing almost everything about her behaviour in her final years. Lucy herself alludes to her own serious illnesses in earlier years and how hands-on healing, helped her shrink a tumour by half!
Listening closely to her narrative, we get a wonderful picture of a privileged, posh, bright, private-school-educated Sloane Ranger-type choosing a radical alternative to Oxbridge: a highly political, reputedly ‘gay’, transformative, red-brick university - Lancaster! - to do a Degree in Theatre and Sculpture (Independent Studies). Here our lovely young Lucy shaved off her long hair, dyed what was left a bright orange and picked up the placards of protest.
Then she went on to the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School - to learn how to act. In 2019 Lucy Briers won the prestigious Clarence Derwent Award for Best Supporting Actress. (Lucy hadn’t heard of it either - check it out, it’s impressive, with the likes of Gene Hackman & Christopher Walken as previous recipients!)
Lucy now sees herself as a ‘structured person’ (even though she wittily describes herself as still being nevertheless ‘deeply superficial’!). But Lancaster was the first 'radical reconstruction' for her. So was getting divorced. So was the deeply poignant story we also get to hear about caring for her mother through the 'great de-tethering' of her Alzheimer’s.
Lucy has learned a lot of life’s lessons the hard way and changed, she believes, for the better. That is her objective - to deepen her understanding of the human condition and share it on stage, with the spirit of her famous father supporting her whenever needed with words of encouragement from the wings.
Lucy admits to a continuing crush on Ryan Gosling as well as personal and professional admiration for Tom Cruise. She is a most fascinating paradox: a very private person, who is also an extrovert.
Here is a truly w
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Prepare to step into the snow-laden landscapes of the Canadian wilderness with the delightful Gurdeep Pandher of the Yukon: The viral Bhangra Dancer whose radiant orange turban and infectious joy has carved a 'ray of hope' during the Pandemic and beyond, through his joy of spreading happiness, hope & positivity through his love of Punjabi Bhangra Dancing.
A journey of rhythm, resilience and joy, as we explore Gurdeep's off-grid lifestyle, his love for the Canadian Yukon wilderness, and his fascinating collaborations.
Gurdeep first came to my attention through his good friend and previous Guest here in the 'Clearing', Patrick Dexter, the Irish Cellist who also went viral during the Pandemic, by playing his cello outside his cottage on the wild cliff-scapes of Ireland.
Discover how Gurdeep's unassuming dancer's message of positivity, hope and happiness resonates across the Globe through his unique blend of storytelling and vibrant Bangrah dance sequences.
Delight in the four pillars of goodness that anchor Gurdeep's life: the awe-inspiring Yukon; his passion for dance; storytelling and his deep connection with nature. Accompany us as we illuminate the power of dance and positivity that have made Gurdeep a global sensation and a beacon of hope, spreading joy and optimism during trying times.
Finally, we journey into the heart of Gurdeep's philosophy, where we uncover his passion for balance, his introverted nature, and his love for the smaller joys in life. Listen as he shares his favorite inspirational quote, his thoughts on dealing with difficulties, and his outlook that even in the darkest times.
A testament to finding one's flow in the rhythm of life, this episode will leave you captivated, inspired, and filled with a newfound sense of optimism. Join us in celebrating Gurdeep's life and his radiant dance of joy, spreading happiness one step at a time.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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18 Jul 2023
National Treasure, Children's Author & Poet Michael Rosen on Surviving a 40 Day & 40 Night Covid Coma: An Extraordinary Story of Resilience, Survival & Optimism
It's National Treasure Day here in 'The Good Listening To Show' as we welcome the incomparable, the legendary, the warm & wonderful Children's Author & Poet, Mr "Chocolate Cake" himself, Michael Rosen! Or as his globally renowned viral Meme would exclaim "Nice!" (Just Google 'Michael Rosen , Chocolate Cake & Meme' and all will become clear!)
With his Willy-Wonka-esque-ex-chocolate-factory office for his 'Clearing' (how perfect!), Michael welcomes us warmly into his world and into his glorious mindscape, as we riff together on a whole array of profound and poignant stories.
Described as “an optimistic nihilist” by his graduate daughter Elsie, Michael Rosen is a performance poet, professional broadcaster and abundant author of literally scores of different books, mostly for children but many for adult readers also, with nearly 200 books and 130 million YouTube hits to his name.
Above all, he is an extraordinary survivor. Aged 20, his latent hypothyroidism remained undetected for a potentially deadly decade. In his seventies, the treatment of his severe Covid required a medically induced coma, which in practice kept him unconscious in Intensive Care for 40 days - like a latter day Lazarus in his clinical cave. Now Michael Rosen has less than perfect hearing in one ear and less than perfect vision in one eye.
Michael Rosen’s parents were both teachers. They spoke Yiddish as well as English and lived quite happily and quite colourfully in a flat above a shop in Pinner. Michael recently collected a nodular pebble from the now largely tarmac area behind the shop to remind him of his early childhood. In those days, his very bright older brother Brian, now a distinguished palaeontologist, took it on himself to teach young ‘Mick’ the basics of calculus or whatever he, Brian, was being taught at school. Michael Rosen was ‘porous’, he says, from an early age!
In an era of dip pens, inkwells & blotting paper, a teacher called Mr Brown arrived from Manchester - in suede shoes! Thanks to this one and only Barry Brown, young Mick was soon inspired by plays and playwrights. He appeared on stage whenever he was offered a part, however minor and later the now published author Michael went on to write some plays of his own!
On a darker note, Michael’s own teenage son Eddie died one April night, suddenly and shockingly, albeit thank goodness, painlessly. Every year Michael and his now extended family commemorate Eddie’s premature death and celebrate his short life over a lunch. Death may not have worn ‘creaky boots’ but the Rosens can raise a glass and a smile regularly to remember the one they all lost so unexpectedly…
One of
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22 Jul 2023
Errol Gerson: Philosopher, Creative Mentor, Natural Born Teacher & Sage, on How he has Survived & Thrived being an 'Outlier' through Faith, Gratitude, Resilience & Courage
An extraordinary episode with a man of true brilliance, courage, distinction & genius. Delighted to welcome South African born Los Angeles-based Designer, Philosopher, Creative Mentor, Professor & Coach, Errol Gerson. A wise owl indeed!
Errol was 'Passed the Golden Baton' through previous Guest, Iain Thackrah.
Part philosopher, part accountant and natural born teacher, Errol has helped shape the creative minds of the world famous Art Centre College of Design in Los Angeles for over 50 years, preparing over 5,350 students to embark on incredible creative businesses and SUCCEED in an ever changing field.
And be sure to stick around after the outro for a wonderful post-script story from Errol too!
Errol Gerson is a lifelong learner, who trained as an accountant & has been sharing his business insight with creative people ever since. When Errol was himself at art school, one of his tutors acknowledged that he was a likeable lad but went on to say that, in his opinion, he did not have a creative bone in his body!
Errol had left school with a certificate that declared him not suitable for university. At this point, he may have been down but he was definitely not out. Inspired by people like Joan Baez & Bob Dylan, Errol Gerson learned to play the guitar, wrote anti-apartheid songs and sang them in coffee bars, where the customers applauded but the police took a somewhat different view!
When a visiting American suggested he was possibly good enough to get a record deal & that America might appreciate his talents, whatever his South African critics might say, Errol set off for the USA with a very small suitcase and a tiny bundle of US dollars to match. He arrived 3 months early, in some distress. When he was evicted from his rooms for non-payment of rent, he took his last two bucks to a local coffee bar where, fortuitously, he found a job as a dishwasher, a free meal of sorts every day and even a single bed in exchange for cleaning, reminiscent of Roger Miller’s ironic 'King of the Road'.
Errol Gerson now has half a century’s relevant experience in the USA teaching at the Art Center College of Design in Los Angeles. He himself has been inspired by all his teachers in California, as well as by iconic writers like Wayne Dyer, Stephen Covey, Viktor Frankl and Gail Sheehy. To avoid bearing grudges or allowing resentments to take root, Errol recommends a rigorous programme of prayer and meditation, as well as actively cultivating an attitude of gratitude, with the help of a moleskin notebook, on a daily basis.
Errol continues to be inspired by people like Plato, Socrates and Descartes. Errol Gerson’s
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Cathy Rentzenbrink had just delivered the draft of her latest novel when this interview took place. So, naturally enough, she was reluctant to discuss it beyond saying it was two years in the writing and two decades in its creation.
Cathy is happiest encouraging other writers to write, on the credible assumption that ‘writers are people for whom writing is more difficult.’
Cathy herself is a fast reader and a slow writer, who spends lots of time considering what she can cut without loss from her first or later drafts. For her, as for most good writers, writing is rewriting.
Paradoxically, at age 18, when her Irish father first met her English mother on the Quay in Falmouth, he could neither read nor write. Happily, he could both talk and sing and his words were an early inspiration for the young Cathy. In contrast, Cathy’s loving mother was very literate, as well as a 'love at first sight’ super romantic.
Cathy says “all life is full of material” and the tragic material in Cathy’s early life was the traffic accident that put her younger brother into hospital after being knocked down by a motorbike, which led to the family’s agonising decision to turn off his life support system, 8 years later.
In her early ‘career,’ Cathy was happiest when she was working in Hatchard’s bookshop. (It remains her scorched earth emergency option.) Cathy never wanted an office job where she might be expected to laugh at dodgy ‘jokes delivered by drunk men.’ Instead, Cathy became a writer. And an encourager of other writers, at festivals and workshops.
Meanwhile she has been married twice. She remains good friends with her first husband and supportive of her ‘current’ husband, a Dutchman with a difficult name for strangers to spell. Her only criticism is of Mr Rentzenbrink’s intolerance while driving, but allegedly this characteristic is present in all heterosexual male drivers and may perhaps be an essential element of the Patriarchy.
Cathy’s body of work now includes novels as well as autobiographical books and how to start writing guides. To quote Ovid, translated from the original Latin: “Be patient and tough. Some day this pain will be useful to you.”
Cathy would like to be remembered as a Laugh rather than someone who’s ‘had a big paper round.’
The only award that Cathy’s won so far was at 17 when she won the Snaith and District Ladies Darts Championship, with an additional award for including three treble twenties as a single score in that success. Cathy Rentzenbrink
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Award Winning Actress Rosie Cavaliero was born in Brazil. She can trace her surname to her father’s ancestry in northern Italy. Her father converted from Sephardic Judaism to Roman Catholicism. He was fascinated by butterflies and rose to the top of the British Council as Deputy Director General. His job meant that he and his family moved around quite a lot, taking Rosie to both Rome and India in her childhood before they all settled in that epicentre of Englishness: Tunbridge Wells!
While both of her parents have now passed away, they left Rosie and her siblings with a rich legacy of culture - covering music, the arts and books. To this day, Rosie is always happy in a bookshop - unless she is walking a coastal path in Pembrokeshire! Meanwhile she is an award-winning actress, her brother is an Art Therapist and her niece Anna is an Opera singer.
Rosie herself went to Manchester University before going onto a somewhat bizarre-sounding Drama School, with ‘beautiful girls with corkscrew curls’, that nevertheless helped her secure career-enhancing roles in hit series like Alan Partridge and French & Saunders.
At the same time that this live encounter was being recorded in the Ustinov Studio and streamed on Facebook and YouTube, Rosie’s latest series ‘The Power of Parker’ was just starting on BBC1!
Like most successful actors, Rosie has had to deal with her fair share of rejection. But that doesn’t mean it’s now like water off a duck’s back. All artists are sensitive souls and it doesn’t get any easier in your 50s. In some ways, it may even get worse. That’s why Rosie really appreciates the good work she regularly gets to do on TV and on Radio. These days the gig economy does not make any other career opportunities that much more secure than the acting profession - whatever Dame Peggy Ashcroft may have had to say about it.
Rosie may now be able to cry like a baby but her only real ambition is to be a good mate to her friends and her partner - someone they can talk to without fearing they’re walking on eggshells. Shakespeare could not have put it better!
Acting is a challenging profession, and Rosie shares candid insights into the less-glamorous aspects, including sensitive topics like handling rejection and criticism. As we delve into the importance of resilience and self-confidence in an unpredictable industry, Rosie also reveals her thoughts on her children pursuing careers in the arts and shares encouraging words for aspiring actors. This
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Described as ‘the king of improv’, in reality Neil Mullarkey is more than that. The middle of three brothers, Neil is the one with the least conventional career choice. Perhaps you could say it all started at Cambridge where Neil was President of the now-famous Footlights Club. Or perhaps it started in a more public arena when he and Mike Myers founded the original Comedy Store in London. Perhaps it is starting now as Neil Mullarkey takes the lessons he’s learned in the genre of Improv and introduces them to the wider worlds of business and business schools.
Neil Mullarkey is a curious combination of the searching academic and the pragmatic comic. He is at pains to tell us that the origins of Improv are not in Comedy but in mental welfare. He is happy to talk about Skinner, Pavlov and Herminia Ibarra. He is happy to use terms like ‘operant conditioning’, ‘provocative therapy’ and ‘affiliative humour.’ And at the same time, he is happiest eating meals with his wife and children, ahead of on-song running an Improv Workshop or eating Sushi on his own.
In the next breath, he will tell you he would be happy with a note in the history books which simply said “He made some people laugh.” His words to live by are ‘Say yes to everything and work out how to do it afterwards.’ Why else would he leave London and travel to the Ustinov Studio in Bath to appear Live on stage, totally unscripted, streamed as it happened - whatever happened! - on both Facebook and YouTube? In fact it was a great success - two lovers of Improv working together to delight an interested audience. Two table tennis enthusiasts keeping a fascinating rally going spectacularly well for a good hour. “The only real mistake is to stop trying.” So says Neil Mullarkey, performer, thinker, writer. Fascinating stuff! Very generous, very authentic and occasionally very emotional. A treat in store!
Neil's episode is a treasure trove of insights - not just on comedy, but on authenticity, leadership, and the importance of embracing failure. Drawing wisdom from esteemed individuals such as Herminia Ibarra and B.F. Skinner, we explore facets of life that transcend the boundaries of showbiz. Neil's candid anecdotes on how he applies these life lessons to his personal journeys - like his unexpected stint as an umpire for the English Open Table Tennis Championships - are sure to leave you inspired.
As we navigate through Neil's experiences, we also discuss his intriguing thoughts on provocative therapy and his unending love for improv. Get ready for a heartfelt tribute to Neil's late friend Andy Smart, a celebration of his upcoming charity event, and a deep dive into the stories and inspirations behind his book, 'In the Moment.' This episode, filled to the brim with humor, wisdom, and engaging anecdotes, is designed to leave you entertained
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10 Aug 2023
It's Canadian Viral Sensation & the Internet's Favourite Dad, Brittlestar! How he converted disappointment & failure at a time of rock bottom, into a new path of internet stardom & 600 million downloads. Plus a great recipe for Butter Tarts!
Delighted to welcome the incomparable, wise & wonderful viral phenomenon 'Brittlestar' aka Stewart Reynolds to The Good Listening To Show Clearing. Brittlestar was 'Passed the Golden Baton' by fellow internet sensation and previous guest, Gurdeep Pandher of the Yukon.
With the 'moist-in-between' (!) of emerging fresh from a shower for his Clearing, this is a delightful conversation indeed, suffused with life-affirming wisdom inviting us to trust the 'ebb-and-flow' that life presents us with, helping us to navigate and trust disappointment whenever it might present and be able to go with the flow: "We'll get there in the end..."
Brittlestar is a proud Canadian and a veritable multimedia marvel, boasting a staggering 600 million downloads to his name. We hear the story behind his peculiar and wonderful pseudonym, its roots being in a band name dating back to 2004, combined with the truly bizarre fact about the real-life star fish creature called Brittle Star, which also involves unconventional defecation!
Author also of "Welcome to the Stupidapocalypse" a side-splitting survival guide for the era of "Dumbageddon"!
Brittlestar is happiest editing video and mixing music. He has given himself permission to treat any disappointments as creative stimulus. He recognises the need to keep going and keep being useful, all because you never ever know how useful you might be to certain people in their individually uncertain times. The work ethic is as important to Brittlestar as the spontaneity. His favourite quote from Thomas Edison asserts the following: “Impractical it may be but important, surely.”
As we wrap up this riveting discussion, we dissect the progression of personal ambitions and underline the significance of accepting change as a catalyst for personal growth.
This episode is a medley of laughter, enlightenment & wisdom - and not forgetting of course the recipe & equation for Canadian Butter Tarts: Sex & Gold in a Blender = Butter Tarts!
Enjoy!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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18 Aug 2023
"Hurray for Hollywood!" Trebucheting across the Atlantic to welcome enigmatic & versatile fire-ball of energy, Scottish BAFTA Award Winning TV & Film Actor, Tony Curran!
Ladies n' Genminminmin (er, min...) delighted to welcome the charismatic & enigmatic fire-ball of energy, Scottish Actor Tony Curran, to The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. Tony was 'Passed the Golden Baton' to be in the Show by fellow Scottish Actor and previous Guest, Cal MacAnininch.
Tony won the Scottish BAFTA as Best Actor for his 'devastating' performance (The Guardian) as Tully in the emotionally raw, funny & life-affirming TV Drama that sensitively and powerfully tackles the issue of assisted dying, "Mayflies".
Tony has many TV & Film 'Bangers' under his belt: Ray Donovan; This Life; Sons of Anarchy; Boardwalk Empire; 24; The Outlaw King & Your Honour to name but some.
Tony Curran is a Scottish expat and life-long Celtic Fan & Ambassador now living in Hollywood, here talking about his life, career and his influences: The impact of his parents, his passion for theatre and cinema, and the adventures & experiences that have carved his personality.
Ever heard of using ADHD to your advantage? Tony has. He shares a hilarious tale about his aunt, highlighting the power of humor in everyday life, and his innovative use of LSD to prepare for a role. There's much to learn from his experience with the power of stillness in acting and the wisdom of harnessing one's unique traits.
We talk at length about "Mayflies" too, the chemistry between its co-stars and Tony's pride in the show. We also talk about the seismic effects, importance & reach of the current Writers Guild of America strike and the profound impact of AI on the entertainment industry generally.
We also talk about Tony's approach to finding joy in his craft, through the power of vulnerability & stillness.
Tony Curran is a true maestro of acting and this is a wonderful, heart-warming episode indeed. Enjoy!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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19 Aug 2023
Running Up That Hill! Leslie Paterson's Extraordinary Story of Grit, Tenacity, Courage & Resilience: From World Champion Triathlete to 4 x OSCAR Award-Winning Screenwriting Triumph, for "All Quiet On The Western Front"
Ladies n' Genminminmin (er, min) buckle-up for Lesley Paterson's extraordinary story of 'Triathletic Ascension' from being 3 times World Champion ExTerra Triathlete to BAFTA + 4 x OSCAR Award Winning glory!
A story of grit, determination, tenacity and courage in how she overcome against all the odds, a bike crash, a broken shoulder, an injured leg AND Lime Disease to win & raise the ‘last push’ £10,000 to re-secure the rights for her film, which then went on to secure all of the Awards for "All Quiet On The Western Front", including the OSCAR for Best International Feature.
The stuff of Hollywood right there!
Lesley Paterson earned the nickname ‘The Scottish Rocket’ after wining no fewer than 5 world titles in athletics.
More recently, she has picked up a new clutch of world-class awards in a completely different field, as the screenwriter of the Oscar-winning new version of "All Quiet On The Western Front".
The youngest of 4, Lesley had older brothers to compete with. She played rugby with the boys and earned their respect. She enjoyed running for its spiritual values as well as its fitness benefits. Lesley also spent time training as a ballet dancer and later studying theatre and film in San Diego. A genuinely liberated renaissance woman, when it came to competitive swimming, Lesley said she had ‘the heart but not the numbers.’ This didn’t stop her winning her first world medal, in Maui, in a triathlon, in 2011. And that was after giving her competitors a 10 minute start while she dealt with a flat tyre in that section of the competition. Lesley is by her own confession a totally driven character with a strong focus on forward-momentum.
Lesley and her husband Simon, a Performance Psychologist, co-wrote a book called ‘The Brave Athlete’, designed to help competitors deal with a range of issues, which could compromise their performance on the track or in their social relationships.
At a personal level, Lesley is inspired by the unconditional love shown by her parents and the inspirational versatility of the South African runner, Zola Budd. One of Lesley’s favourite quotes is this: “Everyone is fighting a battle that you know nothing about.”
Today Lesley Paterson has more than half a dozen screenwriter/film production projects on the go. She describes herself unashamedly as a ‘hustler’ - but a very hard working hustler. Someone who always wants to be compassionate as well as passionate, inspirational as well as inspired, joyful as well as driven.
Here is a multitalented, articulate woman with a unique story to tell.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
I first saw Eddie Marsan in "Puss in Boots" in Chipping Norton in a Christmas Show circa 1990 (in a period of an acting career that many Actors often describe as being their 'wilderness years!') and then more recently I saw him again in a "BAFTA Retrospective" of his extraordinary career to date, hosted by renowned journalist & broadcaster, Miranda Sawyer. Funnily enough, Chipping Norton & "Puss in Boots" didn't actually come up during the BAFTA retrospective but suffice it to say, many of his subsequent TV & film 'Absolute Bangers' certainly did!
Eddie Marsan is a real coup for "The Good Listening To Show". He is a personal hero of mine - a wonderful, wise, enigmatic & generous actor indeed who I always very much look forward to watching.
This is a great conversation suffused with much wisdom and many top-tips for aspiring Actors on topics such as how to better manage and overcome rejection (which very definitely comes with the territory of the job) with a sense of calm, resilience, objectivity & perspective. And also he reveals his "never more than 2 weeks apart" formula for surviving a long and happy marriage, with his family positioned front-and-centre in everything that he does. Eddie also richly credits, as he did during the BAFTA Retrospective, his Acting Teacher of old, John Osborne Hughes, founder of The Spiritual Psychology of Acting.
The conversation also takes a philosophical turn as we dissect the 'Power of Paradox', a concept inspired by Lao Tzu's "Daodiching" and musings of a Swedish philosopher.
Eddie shares his thoughts on societal binaryism, delves into the impact of acting legends like Philip Seymour Hoffman and Toby Jones on his own craft as an actor, and discusses Neil Kinnock's stirring speech at the Labour Party Conference in 1985.
This thought-provoking discourse is packed with insights that will make you see the world and its paradoxes from a different perspective.
We also step into more personal aspects of Eddie's life, exploring his strong affinity to his working-class roots and how they've influenced his life and career. Eddie talks about his love for Tottenham Football Club and music, and praises the new generation's open-mindedness towards gender and sexuality.
We also touch upon his favourite films, his quirky-fact of a curious but harmless medical condition, and the wisdom & philosophy that he lives by.
Eddie Marsan is best known for portraying intense working-class blokes in both indie and blockbuster films. In a long & varied career to date (and it's not over yet!) Marsan has cemented his reputation as being the British counterpart to
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Louise Minchin has a wonderful story to tell and she tells it very well. Born in a typhoon in Hong Kong some 55 years ago, one of her earliest memories as a young child is of the water in her bath moving as her tower block shook in gale-force winds! To this day, Louise finds storms exciting…
Her grandparents had a house at the foot of a mountain in Spain, which she fondly remembers visiting year after year. Louise loved the country, the water to swim in and the language itself. Small wonder she chose to study Spanish at St Andrew’s University, where coincidentally Louise also won a scholarship early ‘gap year’ in Argentina. Here her Spanish became fluent, if not strictly Castilian. Here Louise also read the iconic novel ‘100 years of Solitude’ by Gabriel Garcia Marquez - in its original Spanish! This fortuitous year’s experience helped Louise gain a better Degree than her tutors originally expected!
Armed with her academic qualifications, Louise joined the BBC as a Production Assistant. Practically speaking, this involved providing early morning alarm-calls for the presenters on the Today Programme on Radio 4 and making tea or coffee for them on their arrival in the Studio.
Louise then decided to do a Diploma Course in Journalism. She became a professional writer under the expert guidance of a great mentor by the name of Neil Dunwoody. This, she says, was “life-changing”.
Louise’s career took off in style: for 20 years she was reading news and then presenting BBC TV’s flagship Breakfast Show. She did her last ‘Breakfast’ two years ago - but the adventures never stopped. She married successfully and now has two daughters, the first of whom arrived by emergency Caesarean section, followed in dangerously quick succession by acute appendicitis. Louise’s real ‘near death’ experience means that she no longer ‘sweats the small stuff’. She now describes herself as an ‘Endurance Athlete’ and has represented her country in that capacity.
Louise is also an accomplished author. Her first book is based on her own personal experience and is entitled ‘Dare To Try.’
Her latest book is called ‘Fearless Adventures with Extraordinary Women.’ It does what it says on the cover, recording the diverse real life adventures of 18 extraordinary women.
Louise invites you to hear her speak about it and buy copies of it for yourself, your family and your friends. She did not work with the one and only John Humphrys without learning to speak your mind. But always with a smile!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Get ready to meet the man who's making grammar come alive, one rap at a time! Our guest for today is the dynamic Jacob Mitchell, better known as MC Grammar. Once a primary school teacher, he's now an international sensation, revolutionizing the way grammar is taught with his rap-based curriculum. MC Grammar is not just about mixing beats with syntax; he's about creating a learning environment that's engaging and unforgettable. His approach is so effective it's propelled his students among the top 50 schools in the country.
Jacob is not just a teacher, but a man shaped by life's ups and downs. He opens up about his failings in school, the teachers who served as his beacon, and the strong women in his life who served as his rock. Parenthood, he admits, has made him a selfless educator. Beyond grammar, Jacob talks about his love for Arsenal Football Club, his ambitions, and his new foray into the world of animation with his TV Series, Rap Tales.
Our conversation takes a deep dive into more than just grammar. Jacob imparts his wisdom about the impact of pressure on performance, the power of being true to oneself, and the importance of embracing one's uniqueness. He signs off by giving us a sneak peek into his upcoming product launch, the Cinnamon Bun, and a preview of his Gruffalo rap. This episode with MC Grammar is more than just a discussion about education; it's a reminder that learning can be quirky, fun, and uniquely tailored to each individual. Join us for an episode that's as enlightening as it is entertaining. This is a conversation you don't want to miss out on!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
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09 Oct 2023
From Radio Waves to Comedy Notes! Broadcaster & Comedy Historian Georgy Jamieson, Lessons on Navigating Career Change after 10 Years at the BBC, but not her 1st Redundancy Rodeo!
Delighted to welcome Broadcaster & Comedy Historian Georgy Jamieson to the Good Listening To 'Clearing': Georgy was 'Passed the Golden Baton' to be in the show by previous guest, Ghostwriter James Hogg.
For the last 10 years Georgy has been part of the fabric of BBC Radio Suffolk. All changed in July of this year as the BBC made big changes across the board Nationally to the provision of #LocalRadio, with new schedules & new #presenters being announced. Time for Georgy to step down and away with sadness & regret from a job that she dearly loved. So what did she do next? Listen to find out more about her world, post redundancy, as she embarks on a journey of personal rediscovery and courage, with lessons to share with us all.
She talks about her love of comedy and comedy writing plus the creation of the Suffolk Theatre website and podcast.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
20 Oct 2023
'Founder Story' with Calum Byers from Schiltron Associates: The Scottish Pipe-Smoking Wise Owl of an Executive Coach, with over 3,000 Hours of Coaching Experience & all Conducted from his Dedicated 'Coaching Chair'!
Ever wondered how an Executive Coach with over 3,000 hours of experience working with over 100 of the world's biggest companies could help you to unlock your full potential?
Delighted to welcome Calum Byers, the Scottish pipe-smoking Coach, here to tell us his ‘Founder Story’: The story-behind-the-story of his company Schiltron Associates and his personal journey into the world of Coaching.
Calum is a richly experienced Executive Coach with over 3000 hours of coaching experience with 450 clients from over 100 companies including : Babcock, Starbucks, Spotify, Microsoft, RBS, Vodafone, Morgan Stanley, Equinix, CocaCola, UBS, HSBC, TES, Thomson Reuters, Squarespace, Angel Trains, the FCA, the IPO and a wide range of start-ups and SMEs.
Recorded also as a LinkedIn LIVE with Calum broadcasting from his dedicated and very special 'Coaching Chair', making him Calum "Chair of the Board" Byers!
As we journey through Calum's rich tapestry of life experiences, we explore his African roots, his parents' missionary work, and his relentless curiosity & quest for knowledge. An engineer by training & background Calum is a corporate man turned Coach.
He candidly discusses his fears and self-discoveries, shedding light on how he has been influenced by his family, particularly the determination of his son and his daughter's pursuit of their dreams.
Our conversation then veers into an unusual but fitting metaphor—Midwifery for Coaching. We delve into the importance of structure and framework, drawing parallels with the role of a midwife. Inspirational quotes that have shaped Calum's life, his sweet spot for carrot cake, and his views on legacy and purpose - all making for a most enjoyable episode indeed!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
31 Oct 2023
Embracing Light and Darkness: Career Progression Consultant Simon Bergenroth's Journey of Faith & Purpose on the 15th Anniversary of his Father's Death by Suicide
Have you ever pondered the question of how to embrace both light and darkness in life? In our latest episode, we join Simon Bergenroth, the MD of 3Hats, as he shares his journey of faith and resilience on the 15th anniversary of his father's death. Simon's inspiring story takes us on a journey through his struggles with bipolar disorder, the influence of his guardian angel, Christina Bruns, and his departure from the West Midlands.
This episode explores Simon's path to finding purpose amid adversity and how his faith has helped him celebrate life. Through his executive coaching and advising business, Simon guides his clients to discover new opportunities by looking both backward and forward. You'll hear his thoughtful insights on parenthood, the beauty of different cultures, and his appreciation for the natural world.
Simon's vision of shining light into the dark places of the world is as intriguing as it is inspiring. He shares his dream of creating a global agency, 'LIGHT', dedicated to illuminating the world's darkest corners. Towards the end, our conversation touches on Simon's perspective on legacy and his aspiration to be a 'weapon of mass salvation'. Tune in to hear this powerful story of resilience, purpose, and the human spirit. This isn't just another podcast episode; it's an invitation to explore a life lived in light and darkness.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
11 Nov 2023
Unpacking Brand Success with Brilliant Brand Director, Mychael Owen (aka 'Captain Brand'!) Raging Against the Beige & Always Wearing Red - A Journey through Character, Creativity & how to be more 'Interesting'
"Interestingly, the best way to get people more interested in you, is to do-and-be more interesting!" Please welcome Mychael Owen, wise and enigmatic Associate Brand Director and author of a brilliant Newsletter called "50odd: The diary of a man that stopped waiting" As he says on his https://www.mychael.co.uk website, he's the Brand Director that you should have had from day 1 but didn't!"
Ever pondered what makes a brand compelling and successful? Mychael Owen, associate brand director and owner of 'Always Wear Red', is our guide in this enlightening conversation about the significant role of branding in a business. Mychael regales us with his unique perspective on how character, context, and creativity can captivate both internal and external audiences, shaping businesses into better, more interesting entities.
This journey isn't just about business, it delves into the personal experiences that shaped Mychael. From tales of his upbringing in Manchester to the impact of his stepfather and step-grandfather, each story intertwines with his brand-building philosophy. There's insight to be gleaned as he unpacks how unresolved anger towards his mother became a catalyst for self-improvement. We also navigate the turbulent waters of celebrity impressions, analyzing the stories of George Michael, Matthew Perry, and the profound influence of Dave Trot, a business communication genius.
As we steer the conversation towards Mychael's reflections on language, parenting, and legacy, he asserts a refreshing belief that being different is more impactful than just being better. Michael's captivating perspective on life, his inspirations, and his experiences are bound to leave you pondering your own brand and personal journey. Join us as we step into the shoes of one of the most intriguing brand directors in the business, and maybe, just maybe, you might find the inspiration to be different too.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
14 Nov 2023
'Good Books': Actor, Director & Author Brendan O'Hea on "Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays The Rent" Co-Authored with Dame Judi Dench: A Book Lovingly Curated Over 4 Years of Conversations as a 'Love Letter to Shakespeare'
Delighted to welcome ‘National Treasure Whisperer’ (!) Actor, Director & Author Brendan O’Hea to the Good Listening To Show ‘Clearing’. Brendan and I were at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School together way-back-when.
Encounter the magical world of theatre as we journey alongside Brendan O’Hea, author of the beautifully curated book "Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays The Rent", co-written with his great friend of 30 years, Dame Judi Dench.
A book lovingly curated & co-written over the last 4 years of conversations which all started at beginning of the Pandemic, with his great friend of 30 years, Dame Judi Dench. Written as a 'love letter to Shakespeare' to celebrate her 70 years of Shakesepare and all the parts that she has played.
From the extraordinary tales embedded within its pages to the intriguing process of its creation, this episode promises to engage, inspire, and fascinate. The conversation takes a deep dive into Brendan & Judi Dench's creative process, the necessity of taking mental breaks, the phenomenon of muscle memory in Shakespearean actors, and the profound power of metaphors.
Not only do we delve into the mechanics of theatre but we also explore its transformative influence. Brendan highlights the commendable work of "Scene and Heard", a London-based theatre company that champions children’s creativity. We discuss the role of theatre in education, how it nurtures empathy, and the impact it has in shaping a decent civilization. The conversation also covers the importance of acknowledging the unsung heroes of a theatrical production and the value of collective efforts in a successful production.
But the show's not over yet! Stick around as we navigate through Brendan's unconventional stint as a ‘Fishy Santa’ (!) at Hamleys, revealing the unexpected opportunities life throws at us. We also dissect the fine details that go into directing plays and the parallels drawn with parenting, cultivating an environment wherein creativity thrives. Lastly, for those grappling with the pressure of early careers, we also touch upon overcoming limitations, embracing failure, and transforming it into a stepping stone towards success. So sit back, tune in, and prepare to be transported into an enchanting world of theatre, creativity and the timeless works of Shakespeare in the extraordinarily good company of Brendan O’Hea.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
22 Nov 2023
Actor, Animal Activist & Animals Asia Ambassador Peter Egan, on Rescuing Moon Bears from a Life of Despair from the Bile Farms of Vietnam to a Sanctuary at Last
Delighted to welcome Actor, Animal Rights Activist Peter Egan to The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. Fresh off a plane from Vietnam, Peter is here to recount his poignant experiences of just having returned from a Bear Sanctuary managed by his beloved charity, Animals Asia.
A life long and passionate Animals advocate & vegan, Peter very movingly highlights the tragic reality of Moon Bears trapped in crush-cages with a life of despair in the Bile Farms of Vietnam, and the commendable efforts by Animals Asia to give these beautiful creatures a second chance at life in a Sanctuary at last.
A pleasure & a priviledge to curate him through the journey of the show, the conversation then takes a very Shakespearean scenic detour, as we wander along together through his 'Clearing' of a serene woodland retreat, accompanied by his four loyal canine companions. We then venture into the shared world of our love of acting, mentioning greats such as John Gielgud, Laurence Olivier & Peter O'Toole, along with Peter O'Toole's mentor, Director Nat Brenner.
We also get a 'sneak-peek' into his latest TV project, "True Love", and the bond he shares with Daniel Day-Lewis, a fellow alumni of mine at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School with a conversation about Acting Teacher Legend Rudi Shelley too.
My conversation with Peter then takes a deeply personal turn as he opens up about his greatest love of his life, his late wife, Myra. Listen in as he movingly reflects on her courageous battle with cancer and her brave decision to take control of her treatment. We then delve once again into Peter's unwavering commitment to animal welfare and how he's embraced a vegan lifestyle too.
From his rebellious student days to his successful acting career, and his undying passion for animal rights, prepare to be inspired by Peter's extraordinary journey and how he's leveraging his platform for change and for the welfare of all.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
24 Nov 2023
'Good Books': Harnessing the Creative Power of the Great Outdoors with Garry Pratt, Author of "The Creativity Factor", inviting Business Leaders to Ditch the 'Bored' Room (!) & Get Outdoors!
Ever felt your creativity stifled by the monotony of office spaces or mundane routines? How about looking to the great outdoors for some inspiration? We had the pleasure of hosting Garry Pratt, author of "The Creativity Factor," who believes that nature can be a powerful tool for unleashing our creative potential. Garry shared his personal journey and insights on the relationship between nature and creativity, how strolling outside can clear our minds, and how it's helped him run his business.
Think about it, how many times have you suddenly found the answer to a problem while on a quiet walk? This episode explores that very concept! We discuss how distraction and walking can spark ingenious ideas, share our personal experiences and favorite places that help us find clarity, and touch upon the metaphor of climbing a mountain. This episode is also peppered with fun and fascinating trivia about Garry’s expertise in Bronze Age sailing, his love for camping and cooking over a fire, and how these activities bring him joy and purpose in life.
As we wrap up, we invite you on a journey to rethink your work approach and consider the outdoors as your new productivity tool. Storytelling, another critical aspect of entrepreneurship, takes center stage as we discuss how walking in nature can set the stage for new narratives. We even share a quick exercise to help you create and share stories using found items – a tool for building trust within a team. So, buckle up for an insightful discussion that ends on a sweet note with a metaphorical carrot cake, a reminder to savor the simple joys of life.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
01 Dec 2023
Michael Heppell: Motivational Speaker, Best Selling Author & Coach on the Cure to an Average Life & How to be BRILLIANT! A Journey of Entrepreneurship, Perseverance & Inspiration
Delighted to welcome Speaker, International Best Selling Author & Coach, Michael Heppell to The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.
Picture this: You're at a networking event, someone asks you, "What do you do?" and you respond with, "I'm a gap filler." Intriguing, isn't it? That's just a taste of the unique perspective that our guest, Michael Heppell, brings to today's conversation. Prepare to be inspired!
Heppell, an inspirational speaker, customer service expert, and best-selling author, shares how he breaks from the mold of an average life. His journey is deeply personal and engaging, filled with defining moments that include a chance encounter with a professor and a museum job offer that became an entrepreneurial spark.
As Heppell takes us through his life’s journey, you’ll find his stories to be more than just inspiring. They are also empowering, especially as he discusses his program 'Write that Book,' designed to help others write, publish, and sell their own books. Heppell applauds true entrepreneurs who dare to venture out, highlighting the importance of their courage and risk-taking abilities. His triumphs, trials, and passion echo the extraordinary power of perseverance and tenacity.
Finally, we wander into the fascinating world of language and storytelling. Heppell shares his favourite inspirational quote and offers sage advice to his younger self.
We also learn about the most impactful piece of advice he's ever received. Wrapping up our conversation, Hepel shares his thoughts on legacy, and how he hopes to be remembered - as someone who was there for others in their time of need.
Tune in to this compelling discussion with Michael Heppell and prepare to challenge your perspective on what it means to lead a brilliant and fulfilling life.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
04 Dec 2023
'Telepathy in Action' with Improv Guru Paul Z Jackson: On Life, Laughter, Gratitude & Legacy. A Celebration of all things Comedy Improvisation and its Liberating & Life-Affirming Mindset of 'Yes and...'
Ready to peek behind the curtain of comedy improvisation? This week's episode is a treasure trove of insights, all thanks to our special guest, Paul Z Jackson. Fun, fascinating, and full of life, Jackson opens up about his journey from arts lover to improv guru. He shares his unique perspective on improvisation, describing it as "telepathy in action" and discusses his deep-seated love for literature, writing, and the arts that have all played influential roles in his life.
Our conversation takes an interesting turn as we discuss the pivotal moments that have shaped Jackson's life. From a spontaneous visit to an improv show that ignited his love for the art form, to the larger-than-life influence of football manager Graham Taylor and the captivating book and film "All the President's Men". But it’s not all serious talk - we also bond over our shared love for tennis, table tennis, and the never-ending hunt for the perfect scone!
This episode isn't just about listening; it's a masterclass in the art of conversation, facilitated by none other than Jackson himself. He provides valuable insights into how to conduct a structured conversation, emphasizing the power of provocative questions, the magic of storytelling, and understanding the dynamics of a conversation. Injecting a healthy dose of laughter into the mix, Jackson reveals the fascinating world of improvisation and its surprising utility in our day-to-day lives. So, are you ready to spark some joy, pick up some wisdom, and possibly fall in love with improvisation? Come along for the ride!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
06 Dec 2023
'Founder Story': Unlocking Your Potential with Henry Caplan & Sean Perlmutter from Pivotal Twist. Conquering Self-Limiting Beliefs & Inspiring Huge Personal Development & Growth for Leaders through Theatre & Storytelling as Catalysts for Change
You know those moments when you hit a wall, find yourself stuck in a rut, or feel like you’re just going through the motions? That’s exactly where we found ourselves until we met Sean and Henry from Pivotal Twist. These guys have crafted an innovative approach to talent optimization - a process that has positively transformed our lives and is guaranteed to change yours too. In this episode, they share their unique methodologies, demonstrating how they empower individuals and leaders to conquer self-limiting beliefs and thrive.
Imagine being on a constant growth trajectory, constantly pushing boundaries, both in your personal and professional life. That's the life Sean and Henry live. Their personal stories about their backgrounds in theater, their passion for fostering growth, and the unique ways they challenge themselves, like taking cold showers, offer a fresh, dynamic perspective. These experiences have not only shaped their company, Pivotal Twist, but also have the power to reshape the way you perceive your potential.
We also delve into the transformative power of finding purpose and fulfillment in work. We explore the democratization of permission and the power of DIY in today's world. We shared our favorite inspirational quotes and offered advice to our younger selves, of which the essence was simplicity - focusing on your true passion. We wrapped up the episode by passing on the golden baton to Dmitri Koltinov, founder and CEO of Arbor. As we end this enriching conversation, remember to always breathe and be present in the moment. This podcast episode is a goldmine of inspiration and growth, tune in and let it transform you.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
07 Dec 2023
Acclaimed Theatre Director Lucy Pitman-Wallace, Exploring the Creative Process: On the Nature of Ensemble, Rehearsal & the True Nature of 'Play' - Complete with Dogs in 'The Clearing' to Lead the Way!
Please welcome acclaimed Theatre Director with many a 'Theatrical Banger' to her name, Lucy Pitman-Wallace. A life in the theatre and her love of Shakespeare in particular began for her at the tender & impressionable age of 8, when her mother ‘laughed in the face of getting a baby-sitter’ and took her to see a production of “Measure for Measure. Lucy’s passion for ‘dense texts’ in particular began from that point on.
Lucy has Directed at the National and at the RSC and at many of the Nation's leading Drama schools, with a particular passion for the power of theatre in building community and for mentoring new talent to be introduced to the wonderful world of theatre.
A delightful episode including some comedy interruptions from a postman and a temporary Zoom crash - but just as there's 'no script for life' we banter on and push on through majestically!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
14 Dec 2023
15 Year Old Motivational Sensation Adarsh Senthilnathan: A Tale of Persistence, Innovation & Youthful Inspiration - Plus the Fascinating Story of a 'Vortex Created with a Coffee Frother' in an Experiment to Remove the Oceon's Microplastics
Get ready to be fascinated & intrigued as I converse with my brilliant 15-year-old guest, Adarsh Senthilnathan. Adarsh got in touch with me out-of-the-blue from his school in Los Angeles, to ask if he could be my Guest to provide him with the platform he felt that he needed, on his mission to share his inspiration and lessons with the world.
Not your regular teenager, Adarsh sets out to invert the idea that wisdom necessarily comes with age. Indeed I invite you to listen intently, as Adarsh quickly proves himself to be a youthful and very impressive beacon of wisdom, resilience, insight and innovation indeed.
Adarsh illustrates his unique blend of interests with a seamless blend of soccer, science, and a desire to be of service, to help and inspire others.
His also has an intriguing & innovative Science Project to his name, involving a bath-full of water, a vortex, some aluminium foil and a coffee-frother, aimed at helping to remove the Ocean's microplastics.
Prepare to be inspired by Adarsh's unwavering spirit as he recounts the hurdles he has already faced and overcome at his youthful age of 15 - and the profound lessons and learnings he already carries with him towards his future. Adarsh's is a future I think we'll all need to keep an eye on! And don't forget you heard him here first!
If you'd like to contact Adarsh to invite him on to YOUR podcast too (which he'd really like you to do!) then you can do so c/o adarshsenthilnathan@gmail.com
Adarsh's story of personal growth and resilience is a testament to his mindset of determination and consistency. Adarsh effortlessly & very eloquently takes us through the influences that have shaped him: The inspiring journey of his parents from India to America, his admiration for 'norm-breakers', and the motivational power of 'seeing and enjoying others succeed', all play a pivotal role in his life.
Adarsh also highlights how he leverages social media - and Instagram in particular - as a continuing global source of inspiration and knowledge.
So, sit back, relax & enjoy! If you're seeking a dose of inspiration, hard work, and an example for us all about "how to make a positive impact and keep going", then listen no further!
You can also Watch/Listen to Adarsh Senthilnathan's extraordinary interview here:
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
16 Dec 2023
"Hi-Diddly-Dee-the-Life-of-an Actor-Manager-for-Me!" with Theatre Impresario Neal Foster (Artistic Director of Birmingham Stage Company for 30+ Years) with many a Children's Theatre "BANGER" & Acolade to his Name!
Delighted to welcome Neal Foster "Actor Manager" in the age-old tradition! With the likes of Sir Richard Burbage of Shakesepeare's Lord Chamberlain Company & The Globe Theatre coming before him and modern contemporaries such as Sir Kenneth Branagh & Sir Mark Rylance et al since!
Neal Foster and I were at The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School together circa many many years ago and it's an absolute delight to be reunited, here together in The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.
This a wonderful conversation in which we also riff about some former "Acting notes of old" from the likes of Theatre School Director greats such as Nat Brenner, who was Peter O'Toole's mentor.
Ever wondered what lies behind the scenes of the world of acting? Join us as we take you on a journey into the fascinating life of actor-manager Neal Foster, a stalwart of the Birmingham Stage Company for over 30 years. With a rich blend of experiences and a unique perspective, Neal shares his insights on the ancient tradition of Actor-Managers, performing in unconventional spaces during the Pandemic, and the challenges and triumphs that come with it.
An unmissable peek into his upcoming role in David Walliam's "Awful Aunty" in a year-long tour, and a glimpse into the company's performances of old in iconic locations such the Sydney Opera House and on Broadway.
Imagine interviewing celebrities at 15 for a noble cause. That's exactly what he did, and we take you down memory lane as we share captivating anecdotes from Neal having interviewed the likes of John Cleese, Roald Dahl, and Sir Ian McKellen. This experience not only brought Neal face-to-face with the generosity of the acting community but also offered insights that can be invaluable to budding actors gearing up for auditions. From tips to self-confidence, the lessons learned are plenty, and we can't wait to share them with you.
From admiring Richard Dreyfus and Paul Schofield to having a fascination with Russian politics, Neal Foster's inspirations are as varied as they are intriguing. Nail shares his mantra of living in the moment - a philosophy that has shaped his approach to life and his career.
Our conversation is brimming with delightful titbits and anecdotes — an unusual champagne-related one too! Along with Neal's favourite cake, and an inspirational quote that's close to his heart.
Join us on this enlightening journey together , and prepare to be inspired.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
19 Dec 2023
Poetic Redemption, the Gift of a 'Second Chance' and a Mother's Unquestioning Constancy & Love: Overcoming Adversity & Shame to Inspire Future Generations, with Children's Laureate of Wales 2021-23, Connor Allen
Have you ever witnessed a person's life unfold like a phoenix rising from the ashes? That's what it felt like when I sat down with Connor Allen, the former Children's Laureate of Wales, to unearth the layers of his inspiring transformation. His past, laced with challenges, paves the way to an incredible journey of self-discovery and influence. Connor's candid recounting of his experiences, from a speech that altered his path to his moving work with young offenders, demonstrates the power of resilience and the indelible impact one can have on the lives of others. His tale is a testament to the magic that happens when we channel our struggles into empowering narratives for the next generation.
The tapestry of human experience is rich with stories of growth and redemption, and Connor's is no exception. As we traverse the chapters of his life, we uncover the profound impact of parental figures, the significance of time, and the symbolism of doorways as entry points to new beginnings. Connor's poetic voice and his heartfelt poem "Knock, Knock" echo the sentiments of potential and the pursuit of purpose. Through our exchange, listeners will find a deep connection to the notion that our past does not define us — rather, it fuels the hope that guides us forward.
As we bid farewell to the 2023 season, we reflect on the profound influence of our familial legacies and the generational echoes of our identities. Connor's roots in the Windrush legacy, his bond with his little brother Blaine, and his nurturing presence as a mentor to many young people in his community remind us of the cascading effects of kindness and love. With heartfelt gratitude and anticipation for the future, we pass the baton to Briony Kimmins, excited for the fresh perspectives she'll bring. Join us for this final episode of 2023 as we celebrate the stories that shape us, the voices that inspire us, and the collective wisdom that propels us forward.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
17 Jan 2024
A Life in The Theatre Family Spotlight with Actress Finty Williams, Daughter of Dame Judi Dench & Michael Williams: A Journey from Grief, Rehab & Sobriety to Love, Gratitude & the Joys of a Theatrical Family Life & Career
Delighted to welcome Theatre Aristocracy to "The Good Listening To Show" Clearing, as we welcome Actress Finty Williams, daughter of Dame Judi Dench & Micheal Williams.
Finty was 'Passed the Golden Baton' to be in show, by her good friend and previous Guest, Actor, Director & Writer Brendan O'Hea, who has just co-written (with Dame Judi Dench) "Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays The Rent"
As the winter chill begins to thaw, so does the narrative of Finty Williams, whose candid conversation heats up our latest podcast episode. From conquering the flu to basking in the love of her feline companions, Oberon and Titania, Finty's storytelling weaves through the sanctuaries of her life, from the rugged beauty of Scottish camping to the soothing waves of Barbados.
But it's not just geographical landscapes that shape her tale. Finty tells the profound story of alcoholism born out of grief for the loss of her father, followed by the timely support and intervention of friends and family to reach the life-changing embrace of sobriety in the deserts of Arizona. Finty paints a vivid picture of a woman ascending her personal Mount Everest with grace, gratitude & strength.
Our discussion with Finty turns introspective as we explore the profound transformation spawned by her sobriety, a metamorphosis as dramatic as the desert rainstorms of Arizona. Her revelations about the pivotal role of support networks, including figures like psychotherapist John McKeown & Theatre Impresario Bill Kenwright, offer an intimate glimpse into the fortress of solidarity that has fortified her journey. Arizona, with its spiritual allure, sets the stage for Finty's awakening, just as the wisdom of loved ones, including the influential Herman Barr, fuels her philosophies on life and the indomitable spirit of recovery.
As the curtain falls on our time with Finty, the enchantment of her life spent in the spotlight of Theatre takes centre stage. Whether recounting the magic of a recent 14-month theatrical run or the thrill of discovering unexpected talents in those closest to her, Finty's passion for the performing arts shines through.
She also shares with us her fascination with criminal psychology and the empowering message of RuPaul to prioritize oneself further reveal the multifaceted layers of her character.
Before the spotlight dims, the invitation extends to you, our listeners, to bring your own stories into the clearing. Join us, share your narrative, and become part of a community that cherishes the art of listening.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
29 Jan 2024
Actress Joanne Howarth's Theatrical Voyage from Youth Theatre to the Globe Theatre with Passion plus a self-confessed 'Geekery' for Shakespeare to Power & Inspire her Along the Way!
Delighted to welcome Actress & Director Joanne Howarth to "The Good Listening To Show" Clearing. With many a Theatre & TV banger to her name, having performed at most of the major theatres in the land. Including 3 seasons at the RSC, one highlight of which was "The Alchemist" with Hugh Bonneville & David Bradley. She also played on TV opposite Sir Kenneth Branagh in "Wallander".
And we have history! Joanne and I met way back when at the Salisbury Playhouse in a production of "Custer's Last Stand", directed by previous Show Guest, Lucy Pitman Wallace.
Suffused with theatrical anecdotes and inspirations aplenty, Jo talks about her personal ritual (for the last 20 years) of always finding solace and her 'serious happy place' in her "Morning Pages", a practice derived from Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way. With treks through the South Downs near her home town of Brighton becoming her Clearing and her creative lab for untangling thoughts and mastering monologues.
We also venture into the rehearsal room, where the chemistry of artists & theatre companies like Complicité and Told By An Idiot ignite Joanne's craft, blending the physical with the poetic to create theatre that resonates long after the curtain falls.
Tales of inspiration, resilience, and the occasional happy distraction adorn this episode, painting a portrait of a life dedicated to the stage and to the magic and the sense of rich community that it can bring.
She pays tribute to her fellow community of Globe Education Practitioners (GEPs) for their unwavering support and inspiration in all that she does in her work. Jo also delves into the societal impact of theatre and considers the enduring legacy of storytelling as a reflective mirror to our world
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
07 Feb 2024
"To Be Or Not To Be": Actor Robert Hands' Extraordinary Tale of Triumph Over Addiction, 10 Years on after his 3 Year 'Descent into the Abyss' after Self-Injecting with Cystal-Meth
Imagine sitting down to a tale that's every bit as gripping as the highest stakes drama on stage, yet deeply personal and resoundingly human. That's what awaits you as we're joined by the Olivier Award-nominated Actor Robert Hands, whose life reads like a script filled with both critical acclaim and harrowing personal demons. The spotlight falls on his transformative battle with addiction and the pursuit of peace through spirituality, yoga, and meditation, offering an unflinching look at the resilience needed to rebuild from the ground up.
10 years ago to the day of our recording, Robert surfaced from a 3 year abyss, having taken the extraordinarily self-destructive decision to self-inject with Crystal-Meth, to finally become clean to salvage and reclaim his life once more.
This episode isn't just a chronicle of one man's journey; it's an exploration of the universal themes that shape our lives. We dig into the profound influences that forge our identities, from the trials of overcoming addiction to the quest for self-acceptance amidst the complexities of sexuality. The narrative weaves through Robert's experiences, pulling back the curtain on the loneliness of personal struggles and the liberating epiphany that can emerge from the depths of despair. With Robert's candid anecdotes serving as a backdrop, we're reminded that storytelling isn't just an art—it's a lifeline.
Join us for a conversation that's as enriching as it is entertaining, traversing from the enchantment of theatre to the everyday alchemy found in movie posters and autobiographies. We'll indulge in a slice of life's metaphorical cake, sampling everything from the lighthearted to the profound while sharing inspirational quotes that might just change your perspective. As we pass the baton of wisdom and experience to you, our listeners, we hope to light the path for anyone navigating the rocky terrain of life's adversities.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
08 Feb 2024
A Life of Writing, Laughter & Ignoring His Father's Advice (Phew!) with "The Fast Show"s Charlie Higson: Comedian, Author, Podcaster, all Round 'Polymathic Pants' & Personal Comedy Hero!
It's a 'Red Letter Day' here in the Good Listening To Show 'Clearing', as I welcome a personal comedy hero to the Show! Delighted to welcome Charles Murray Higson - aka Charlie Higson - born in 1958 in Frome and billed as "That man off of The Fast Show" and credited by The Daily Mail as being both "An idiot and a disgrace!"
Charlie is life-long comedy foil of the likes of Paul Whitehouse, Mark Williams, John Thompson, Arabella Wier (& the now sadly departed Caroline Aherne) who together make up the splendid ensemble and co-creators of the iconic British TV Comedy Classic, "The Fast Show".
Within a week of our recording together "The Fast Show" is all set to go on a smash-hit SOLD OUT tour of the UK as a stage-show. (And listen as a little bit of wee comes out (!) as Charlie offers me a ticket on the Guest list, when The Fast Show comes to Bristol! He'll definitely be getting an email!)
Charlie Higson is a an extremely talented polymath. He is a prolific Author, including 5 of the "Young Bond" series, having been commissioned by the Fleming Foundation to take up the mantle) He is also an Actor, Comedian & Podcaster.
His Podcast "Willy Willy Harry Stee" is Charlie's History of the English Monarchy, inspired by the mnemonic verse which he rote learned and remembers from school.
It's quite a "Fast Show" (see what I'm doing there?!) as there's quite a lot to talk about!
This is what AI thinks we talked about!
Have you ever wondered what stirs in the mind of a comedy genius? Picture this: Charlie Higson, a man of many creative masks, sits down with us and, with a wit as sharp as a scalpel, slices open the belly of the creative beast. He regales us with tales from the upcoming "Fast Show" tour, sharing how "Painting with Johnny" and other beloved characters are shortly to be resurrected night-after-night to the joy of sold-out crowds.
Charlie doesn't just tickle our funny bones; he delves into his diverse trajectory - from punk rocker to actor to the man who breathes new life into the world of James Bond, both young and old.
It's not all fun and games, though. Well, maybe it is – but with a hefty dash of nostalgia and reverence. Charlie pays homage to the comedic titans who paved his path, the likes of Monty Python, and admits that their imprint on his humor is as indelible as ink. He recounts the serendipity of meeting Paul Whitehouse, a kindred spirit in jest, at university and how it shaped their dynamic comedy duo. Even the bittersweet distraction of social media gets a nod, as Charlie admits to its allure, while also recognizing its role in today's narrative tapestry.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Have you ever been so engrossed in a satire that you found yourself double-checking whether you're in on the joke? That's the genius of Rosie Holt – the comedian who could pass for an MP with her scintillating political parodies, leaving audiences unsure whether to laugh or call for her resignation!
Delighted to welcome Rosie Holt to the Good Listening To Show 'Clearing' to talk about her comedic journey, the viral whirlwind of her parodies on Party Gate, the Post Office Scandal and many more, plus news of her upcoming UK National Tour, that promises to tickle your funny-bone whilst also engaging in a bit of sunshine-inspired inspiration.
Peeking behind the curtain of Rosie’s life, we stumbled into a world ripe with the makings of a comedian – from the dynamic chaos of a large family to the elaborate imaginary quests with her siblings. Those early influences have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on her work, weaving a story of resilience and humor that can only come from the heart of someone who has experienced the terror of 'dying on stage.' Rosie's candid recount of the highs-and-lows of her formative years provides a touching and often hilarious testament to the power of humour in navigating life's unpredictable path.
As we wandered further down memory lane, Rosie shared her experiences of the classic horror genre's influence on her, the eye-opening indulgence of the Edinburgh Festival, and how the isolating times of the Pandemic sparked a new vein of creativity in her satire.
From artwork that speaks of hope and sanctuary to advice she'd impart to her younger self, Rosie's reflections offer a poignant glimpse into the life of an artist.
Whether you're a creative soul or simply someone who appreciates a good laugh with a side of introspective wisdom, this episode is a reminder of the transformative power of embracing our unique stories and turning adversity into art.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
19 Feb 2024
'Brand Strand/Founder Story': Melanie Staunton, CEO of Communicate Training on Turning Napkin Scrawls to Reality Goals! A Journey of Communication, Empowerment, a real Zest for Learning & a Deep Rooted Passion for Helping Others to Communicate Better
Ever find yourself scribbling down your dreams on a scrap of paper (or a napkin!) only to rediscover them months later? Melanie Staunton of Communicate Training did just that, and her story of transforming whimsical napkin notes into a tale of achieved aspirations will have you believing in the power of intention!
As we chat with Melanie, a stroll down her memory lane in Hong Kong reveals the importance of mental clarity and the role of diverse cultural experiences in shaping her journey from law and acting to becoming a corporate training maestro. She brings her experiences full circle, illustrating how the art of storytelling and the gift-of-the-gab are not just for the stage but vital for success in every walk of life.
Imagine the pure joy of finding your groove in a Rihanna music video, or better yet, the exhilaration of helping others find their voice. That's the pulse of our conversation with Melanie Staunton, as we reflect on the transformative power of effective communication and public speaking. With tales that span from dramatic performances to the boardroom, Melanie shares insights on how embracing feedback and owning your unique past can fuel your professional endeavors. And if you're thinking about the impact of personal relationships on your career trajectory, she's got anecdotes that reaffirm the profound influence of these connections.
As we wrap up, Melanie unfolds her vision for leaving a legacy of empowerment and positivity, drawing parallels between her love for rich red velvet cake and her passion for enriching lives through Communicate. And if you've ever wondered how to craft a future that reflects the best version of yourself, her dedication to clarity over certainty offers a guiding light. It's not just about honing communication skills; it's about embracing the journey of self-discovery and the joy of being a beacon of hope in someone's cloud.
Join us as we celebrate Melanie's two-year entrepreneurial anniversary of Hong Kong based Communicate Training, as she 'Passes the Baton' to keep the golden thread of the storytelling going to Jennifer Ryan Peery Logue (another inspiring voice in the speaking industry) all the while basking in the shared wisdom that can only come from a global community.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
22 Feb 2024
Founder Story: Swinging Back at Life's Curveballs with UK Health Radio CEO, Johann Ilgenfritz. From Heart Attack & Terminal Cancer Diagnosis, to now Providing Health Support for all, at the Helm of the World's Number 1 Talk Health Radio Station
The extraordinary story of Johann Ilgenfritz CEO & Founder of UK HEALTH RADIO NETWORK LIMITED, 13 years on from surviving a terminal cancer diagnosis, with the power to #reframe his health diagnosis as a 'Health Opportunity' now informing absolutely everything that he does in helping others in all aspects of health, at the helm of the "World's Number 1 Talk Health Radio Station".
It is my absolute privilege to be a fellow Presenter on his network.
When life throws you curveballs, how do you swing back? Join me, Chris Grimes, as I sit down with the indomitable Johann Ilgenfritz, a man whose conquest over heartache and illness is just as captivating as his rise to the helm of UK Health Radio. Tune in to our heart-to-heart as we navigate through Johann's remarkable tale of resilience, from his martial arts discipline and art school creativity to his steadfast approach in battling cancer and prioritizing well-being.
Embark on a sensory-rich excursion through the corners of Johann's mind, where a cactus garden in Ibiza offers him solace, and solitary runs foster a meditative state crucial for his inner peace. Our conversation meanders through life's unexpected joys and the quirky disruptions that keep our perspectives fresh. We laugh over playful nuances and take a whimsical detour through his past 'quirky fact' that he was a Yo-Yo Champion – an odd skill rooted in the adaptability and ambidexterity of youth – and we emerge with renewed appreciation for the unscripted moments that colour our existence.
As the episode unfolds, we delve into the essence of legacy and the profound impact of storytelling. Johann reflects on the artful journey that is "The Good Listening To Show", from its meticulously structured flow to the resonant experiences it evokes for listeners. With a nod to the golden baton of life's theatre, we leave you pondering: How will you act on the stage set before you, and what legacy will you craft from the role you play?
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
24 Feb 2024
Embracing Life's Currents with Gareth Dauncey, Architect & Founder of the Mood App, on Mapping Your Mood to Resilience, a Love of Cool Hats & the Joys of Swimming in the (Cold) Welsh Sea!
Have you ever wondered what it takes to rebuild not just a body, but a life? Gareth Dauncey, an Architect passionate about low-impact design and sustainability, joins us to share his journey of recovery and the power of maintaining routines, like his invigorating sea swims in the cold welsh sea.
He opens up about the challenges he faced post-hip surgery and the morale-boosting connections that kept him afloat—reaching out to admired individuals like hat maker Mike Holmes. Our conversation with Gareth is a toast to the profound moments that subtly shape our existence and a nod to the importance of human connections in our personal and professional growth.
As the waves of life crash around us, finding a moment of stillness can be revelatory. This episode sails into the heart of mindfulness and well-being, guided by Gareth's experiences with Ruby Wax's 'Frazzled' movement and the sanctuary of Frazzled Cafe online gatherings. He recounts the affirmation found within the pages of Wax's book and the life lessons from his recent hospital stay, offering insights into the transient nature of emotions and the courage to seek help, especially for the self-employed. Listeners will be embraced by a dialogue that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit in the face of physical and emotional pain, and the inspiration drawn from those who navigate life's tumultuous waters.
Architecture is often viewed as a rigid craft, but through Gareth's lens, we uncover the fluidity and creativity that lies within. He articulates the delicate balance of achieving simplicity through complexity, a principle that resonates beyond design and into personal growth. Our exchange delves into the ephemeral nature of life's trials and tribulations, the wisdom of the phrase "this too shall pass," and the importance of remaining true to oneself. Join us as we traverse the landscape of creativity, finding inspiration in challenges and embracing the lessons that each day brings.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
29 Feb 2024
Spinning Climate Crisis into Solution Focused Action through the Power of Storytelling & 'Climate Fiction' with Denise Baden, Professor of Sustainable Practice at Southampton University
A wonderful and thought-provoking voyage of discovery with Denise Baden, Professor of Sustainable Practice at Southampton University. Denise was 'Passed the'Golden Baton' to be in the Show by previous Guest, Paul Z Jackson.
Denise is a luminary in the sustainability sphere and a pioneer in climate change discourse. She is also on the Forbes Official List as 1 of the world's top 68 Climate Leaders & Change Makers.
Listen as she reveals the intricacies of her "Green Stories" initiative, a narrative alchemy that spins the climate crisis into compelling fiction. We pivot from discussing her groundbreaking novel, "Habitat Man," to the resonating impact of her family tapestry on her bold approach to life and academia. Brace yourself for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is heartwarming.
As we wend through Denise's life story, the rich fabric of her experiences unfolds, revealing the imprints of her fearless German mother, her contrarian English father, and the personal growth spurred by early loss. Her tales weave through the halls of university, touching on the expansion of horizons and how these moments cemented her fearless spirit. Add to this the contrasting personalities of her emotionally perceptive son and her brutally honest brother, and you have a narrative that's as multifaceted as it is deeply human.
Closing our session, Denise and I spotlight the transformative power of storytelling, tipping our hats to fellow climate change harbingers like Steve Willis and Jack Klaff. These creators are using their talents to shine a light on environmental issues, inspiring change one story at a time. Join us as we traverse the emotional landscapes of family, the art of ethical writing, the Cuban ethos, and how personal passions shape our worldviews, leaving you with a bountiful harvest of inspiration and a fresh lens on the potential of stories to drive real-world impact & change.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
19 Mar 2024
'Legacy: Life Reflections': A Tribute to Laurel and Hardy's Enduring Comedy Legacy. Laughing Through the Ages with Life-Long Super-Fan & Presenter of The Laurel & Hardy Podcast, Patrick Vasey
Delighted to welcome Patrick Vasey, Laurel & Hardy life-long Super-Fan & Presenter of The Laurel & Hardy Podcast, for a special 'Legacy: Life Reflections' episode in which we preserve the legacy & hare our mutual love and admiration for all things Stan & Ollie.
Stan Laurel is my all time comic hero. I first encountered Stan on a Black & White TV set that hummed into action in Uganda at the age of 7. And to this day he still inspires me in all the work that I do through his innocence, kindness, warmth & humanity.
Growing up, the antics of Laurel and Hardy were a comforting family presence, sparking laughter that echoed throughout my childhood.
Patrick Vasey is a remarkable, passionate & dedicated aficionado of this legendary duo, here to share his insights into their Silent Film era and with news of his forthcoming book that collates their early masterpieces.
Our heartfelt conversation traverses the duo's magnetic charisma and Patrick's unwavering mission to enshrine their legacy for future admirers, underscoring the challenge of keeping their century-old wit relevant today.
The humor of Laurel and Hardy transcends time, connecting not only to chuckles but to life's deeper rhythms. Patrick recounts his personal parallels of sibling jests and workplace woes as seen through the lens of their comedy, showing how laughter can be a guiding light through life's maze. His own journey, entwined with the duo's hijinks, from childhood memories to adult connections, paints a picture of how shared joy can lead to unexpected friendships and personal evolution, even without the formality of fan clubs or conventions.
This episode is a tapestry woven with threads of inspiration from the world of arts to the calm of nature, and the peculiar pastime of archery. Our conversation delves into the potent mix of nostalgia and innovation that influences a passion for storytelling. From the iconic flair of Hollywood's yesteryears to the soothing escapism of birdwatching and the unique bond with a beloved pet, the episode reveals the diverse breadth of experiences that shape our lives. And as a bow on this diverse package, we touch upon the sheer delight of podcasting about Laurel and Hardy, highlighting the vital role of preserving the voices of the past to enlighten and entertain generations to come.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
29 Mar 2024
Life, Laughter, Resilience and a Joyful Exploration of the Life-Affirming Psychology of 'Yes and...' & on Surviving a 'Showstopping' Aneurism on Stage, with Serial Fellow Comedy Improviser, Ruth Bratt
Delighted to welcome fellow Comedy Improvisation Performer, Writer, Actress & regular "Comedy Store Player", Ruth Bratt to The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.
Ruth is the 1st 'new recruit' of "The Comedy Store Players" in the last 30 years of their close to 40 year history. Ruth was 'Passed the Golden Baton' to be in the show by Comedy Store Player Co-Founder Neil Mullarkey, who recorded a "Good Listening To Show" LIVE with me at the Bath Theatre Royal a few months ago.
Just before doing this interview, Ruth Bratt had very recently completed a mammoth 50 hour Improv Marathon (which she does at least once a year - which we talk about) followed by a glass or three afterwards to celebrate!
She is also, rather profoundly, a survivor of having had the extraordinary experience (last Summer) of an unexpected brain haemorrhage, whilst performing live on stage, with "Showstopper: The Musical", in Edinburgh. This obviously took her months from which to recover - and delighted to say that Ruth is here in the Clearing , very much restored & the 'right way up', made of Sterling stuff indeed! She is a real trooper. A proven performer, who admits to being addicted to improv. A successful co-writer of TV comedy. An amateur potter, an occasional painter, a reliable person who prefers to push herself rather than feel cosy in any normal comfort zone.
You can now find Ruth Bratt most Sundays at the Comedy Store, where as a recently signed up member, she is happy to be live and vulnerable.
Ruth is proud to be a collaborator, who is inspired by the twinkle in another actor’s eyes.
And to think, at Nottingham University she thought she fancied becoming a Human Rights Lawyer - until a drama tutor in a small college in North America almost randomly repositioned her career prospects!
Ruth would like to remembered simply as being both ‘fun and kind.’ On the basis of this interview, that is an odds-on certainty!
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
08 May 2024
Brand Strand/Founder Story: Mastering the Art of Corporate Storytelling & Creative Balance with Martin Clarkson, Master Storyteller & Co-Founder of 'Create Balance'
Martin Clarkson is a charming and natural born storyteller with an extraordinary story to tell. After being rejected just once too often for a career on the Stage, he kept his promise to his mother and applied to Marks & Spencer for a ‘proper job’, before working there for almost half a century! From there, his story far from over, then continued as he went on to create a now 20 year old, world renowned company called ‘Storytellers’. Now his passion for Storytelling continues with his newly formed enterprise, ‘Create Balance’.
Create Balance is all about assisting businesses, whether creative or commercial, to respond imaginatively and appropriately to the challenges and opportunities offered by ‘current reality.’ Create Balance exists to make the most of the power of NOW, in an authentic and balanced way.
For Martin Clarkson, reality exists in the power of Words. ‘Words to Follow’ might have been OK for ad-men pitching for business 50 years ago, but it is not OK for Martin Clarkson today!
He tells many a wonderful story, including the one about his grandfather telling him of a ‘bank’ that provided £1440 free every single day. Any pounds not spent that day were lost. But another £1440 appeared again next morning. Martin’s grandfather explained that the 1440 is actually a parable for the free 1440 minutes that are given to all of us every 24 hours. It is entirely up to us what we do with them.
The words rang a bell with young Martin - as did the vision articulated by the person at M&S, who recruited him. ‘Why should performance be restricted to the theatre?’ he asked. He invited Martin to consider the 27 million shoppers, who visit Marks & Spencer ever day as his ‘audience’ and their 270 stores as his ‘stage’.
Before his eyes were opened by these words, Martin saw the store as somewhere his mother went to buy knickers. An altogether unbalanced view!
Now he understood Shakespeare’s words: “All the world’s a stage!”
On his various trips to New York to check the latest retail ideas on the floors of Manhattan, Martin always made time to take in a show at Radio City’s 8000 seat theatre. 4 shows a day, each just 75 minutes long, totally stimulating, totally inspirational!
Martin Clarkson my claim to have an ‘Honours Degree in Distraction’. The body of his life’s work demonstrates that he is able to reconcile the tensions of Brightness and Relevance. His Newco ‘Create Balance’ is an excellent manifestation of Martin’s latest bright relevant idea.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Hunter Roberts, with the ultra experienced Susy Roberts at the helm, are experts in leadership and people development, specialising in change agility. They focus on executive management coaching, organisation design, creating an excellent customer experience and team learning. In an approach that helps people and teams to realise full potential, achieve goals and enhance performance”
Susy is an acknowledged industry expert on developing talent and driving business performance through coaching. With Hunter Roberts, Susy has worked with senior leaders in globally recognised brands including Accenture Dior Dr. Martens plc Centrica Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Levi Strauss & Co. Specsavers O2 (Telefónica UK) The Peninsula Hotels, HSBC & many more.
Have you ever found pure joy and inspiration in the tales of life's unexpected journeys? Susy Roberts of Hunter Roberts joins me for a conversation that is as enlightening as it is heartwarming, sharing the serenity she finds in her Cotswolds cottage and the profound impact her career in coaching has had. Together, we embark on a nostalgic trip through our overlapping histories, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped Susy's path from her beginnings at the Oxford Group to the thriving success of her own company. She opens up about her decision to chase what she loves, a sentiment that echoes throughout our discussion on personal fulfillment and professional triumph.
Reflecting on her career trajectory, she offers up stories of overcoming the hurdles of the job market and the unexpected advantages of an Oxford connection. The episode is sprinkled with anecdotes of international adventures and the wisdom of embracing cultural diversity, from coaxing smiles out of Japanese hospitality workers to conducting training sessions across many a border. The narrative pays tribute to the mentors and role models who've sculpted her professional ethos, underscoring the importance of passion-driven choices in carving a successful career path.
As we close, the conversation turns to the enduring influence we impart through leadership and genuine connections. Susy imparts pearls of wisdom on the subtleties of team communication, sharing experiences that highlight the significance of understanding individual strengths and team dynamics.
With her leadership baton passed to her daughter, we ponder the power of good listening and the introspective journey it can prompt, celebrating the stories and insights that come to light when we truly hear one another. Join us on this episode where the beauty
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
29 May 2024
Brand Strand/Founder Story: Leading with Authenticity & Loyalty with Master Facilitator John Philp, MD & Founder of Croft Consultancy on Fun, Learning, and Lifelong Inspiration
Ever wondered how to lead with authenticity, fun, and continuous learning? Join us as John Philp, the dynamic founder of Croft Consultancy, Training and Development, shares his wealth of experience from over 25 years in leadership and management development. From commanding a room to training in the Iraqi desert, John's stories are not just insightful but also profoundly inspiring. He opens up about the importance of being genuine and maintaining a sense of humor while navigating the complexities of professional growth.
The episode navigates through the significant influences that shaped John's life, such as a fascinating family road trip in 1967 and his deep admiration for Bob Dylan. Listen as John recounts how early travel instilled a love for exploration and how Dylan's music shaped his views on justice and privilege. He also shares personal anecdotes about working in Sweden during the early days of the pandemic and his passion for attending Dylan's concerts, reflecting on how these experiences molded his perspective on life's challenges and opportunities.
Finally, we journey through memorable moments like a family camping trip in France, where the magic of non-verbal communication shone through, and John's humorous world record for tea drinking in 1983. Learn about his work with the global corporation Xplio, developing leadership programs that blend technical skills with people management. This episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and inspirational quotes that underscore the savability of humanity through shared wisdom and purposeful engagement. Grab a cup of tea and tune in for an episode that promises to entertain, educate, and inspire.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
06 Jun 2024
'Legacy: Life Reflections' with Louis Vause: Pianist, Composer, Artist, Teacher & 'Chaotic Journeymen' on a Rich Life Well-Lived as a Happy Musical Interlude! Includes original track "Dimanche: Les Cloches De Paris" from his new Album "Paris Interludes"
Welcome to a very special 'Legacy: Life Reflections' episode of The Good Listening To Show. Please welcome to The Clearing Louis Vause, who was 'Passed the Golden Baton' to be in the Show by none other than Charlie Higson.
"Louis Vause is a reminder of a different era, when Musicians lived exuberant near chaotic lives. They devoured all the music they encountered and then they let in re-emerge, coloured effortlessly with their own personality.
Ivan Hewitt The Daily Telegraph, Review of Louis Vause's "Midnight in Havana"
Join us for a remarkable journey through the extraordinary creative life of Louis Vause, a multifaceted and highly versatile artist known for his extraordinary talents as a pianist, composer, teacher and writer. How does one overcome initial reluctance and fear to become a master of their craft? Louis shares his incredible story of transformation, from his early days with iconic figures like Mark Bedford and Terry Edwards, to the personal challenges he faced, including a liver transplant. Discover how saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities led to a thrilling and sometimes chaotic life filled with artistic achievement.
Louis has also very generously gifted one of his original Piano tracks from his brand new Album "Paris Sketches", written in tribute to both his daughter Melody & to his 'Clearing', sketching on the St Martin's Bridge close to in the Cafe Paris "Demanche: Les Cloches de Paris"
Ever wondered what it’s like to grow up on a boat and in multiple flats across London and Edinburgh? Louis Vause recounts his uniquely adventurous upbringing and the whimsical yet grounding routines that shaped his chaotic but organized life. Hear about nostalgic memories from working at Lily White’s to profound moments at a Parisian café with his daughter Melody. Louis's tales of spontaneous adventures, like a cycling trip to Morocco at age 16, and inspirations from childhood readings of Enid Blyton, offer a vivid glimpse into the life of an eternal seeker of meaningful connections and experiences.
Delve into revolutionary teaching practices in music that challenge traditional methods, focusing on playing by ear and improvisation to nurture children's musicality. We explore Louis's reflections on his legacy, the therapeutic nature of music, and his desire to be remembered as a good father. Revel in the celebration of literary accomplishments, nostalgic performances, and quirky artistic obsessions that make Louis's story a heartfelt blend of admiration, resilience, and creative passion. Tune in for a captivating conversation filled with wisdom, humor, and inspiration.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
10 Jun 2024
Balancing Dual Passions: David Fallah's Journey from Sierra Leone to Being Sony PlayStation Project Manager by Day to Talent Management of Netflix "Top Boy" Actor by Night!
Imagine balancing a high-stakes career at Sony PlayStation with managing the rising stars of tomorrow. That's exactly what David Fallah does, and he joins us to share his remarkable journey. As a Technical Program Manager by day and a Talent Manager by night, David provides a fascinating look into both worlds. From delivering top-notch gaming experiences to nurturing talents like Araloyin Oshunremi from Netflix's "Top Boy," David's story is a testament to creativity, emotional intelligence, and the relentless pursuit of passion.
David takes us back to his early life in Sierra Leone, painting a vivid picture of the cultural values and discipline that shaped him. We hear about the harrowing experiences of the civil war, his family's brave escape to England, and the strong community spirit that welcomed them in Hackney. His reflections on his father's long career with P&O Ferries and the enduring virtues of hard work, respect, and honesty offer a profound perspective on resilience and determination.
We also dive into David's personal influences and treasured memories, from the legacy of Jamal Mason Blair to the inspiration drawn from his resilient immigrant mother. Whether it's lively debates at London's Speaker's Corner, scoring a goal in the FA Cup, or the joy of mentoring and teaching, David's storytelling immerses us in the significant landmarks and emotional events of his life. This episode celebrates the importance of cherishing every moment and the power of community, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating multiple passions and careers.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
20 Jun 2024
Leadership Reflections: Navigating Global Risk, Building Resilience & Joyful 'Leadership-Lessons-Learned-Along-the-Way', with Carolina Klint, CCO Europe at Marsh McLennan
Get ready to uncover the extensive insights of Carolina Klint, the Chief Commercial Officer at Marsh McLennan Europe, as she unpacks her global tour and the pressing risks impacting societal well-being and organizational resilience.
Carolina gives us a front-row seat to her role in sharing the Global Risks Report created in collaboration with the World Economic Forum. Discover her innovative strategies for embedding resilience within businesses and hear about the serene natural spaces that inspire her leadership philosophy. From mountaintops to the vast sea, Carolina's reflections on interconnected risks provide a fresh perspective on navigating today's volatile world.
In this episode, Carolina opens up about the pivotal figures in her life, including her versatile mother, her tenacious father, her mischievous dog Ebba and weaving in touching anecdotes about her family's milestones and the transformative lessons from her teenage son.
As we navigate through her experiences, Carolina’s admiration for diverse cultural perspectives shines through, highlighting its importance in leading dynamic teams. Also, you'll be intrigued by her passion for cake and how it symbolizes resilience and adaptability in her life. From Mike Tyson’s agility philosophy to Carolina’s advice on embracing non-linear career paths, this conversation is brimming with wisdom and inspiration, perfect for anyone looking to navigate their professional journey with grace and guts.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Welcome to a very exciting episode of The Good Listening To Show as we launch the inaugural episode of a brand new series-strand called the "The Big Birthday Show", celebrating 100 years of ex-factory worker Mabel Milne!
If you too know of anyone with a Big '0' coming up soon in their Birthdays (be that 40, 50, 60, 70, 180, 90 or 100!) then why not consider GIFTING them an episode of "The Good Listening To Show", with me Chris Grimes as your host, to help them celebrate their BIG DAY! Explainer Film here: https://vimeo.com/chrisgrimes/bigbirthdayshow
We're calling this one "Mabel's Marbles" as she's still got all of them, is bright as a button and was delighted to be in the Show!
Mabel joins us in The Clearing to reveal that the secret to living a long and fruitful life lies in the unwavering support of those who love you, coupled with a love of gardening and dance and the extraordinary ability to survive and thrive despite all manner of diseases that life can throw at us!
Mabel takes us through the touching highlights of her 100th birthday bash, complete with 24 close family members indulging in afternoon tea comprising cinammon scones, fancy cakes and homemade meringues. She opens up about her early life, dealing with childhood ailments, and the special memories of her happy place, Austria.
In this heartwarming episode, Mabel shares her nuggets of wisdom on everything from patience and dancing to resilience during wartime. Hear her speak about the pride she takes in maintaining her appearance, the shifts in fashion across generations, and the invaluable lessons she learned from her grandmother about butter-making.
Don’t miss her charming recollection of meeting Princess Alexandra and discover the immense joy her garden has brought her over the years. This is a celebration of a life well-lived, filled with inspiration and resilience—an episode you won't want to miss.
Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'. If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.
Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)
Thanks for listening!
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