Eleanor Tweddell

Another Door Opens

A Careers , Business and Health & Fitness podcast

#59 in Careers · 🇳🇱 #177 in Careers · 🇬🇧

About the show

Sharing stories of those moments when a door closes in your life, moments that change your life. Like the best friend who shares the words you need to hear when Life stuff is happening. This is how to navigate change, see change and uncertainty as an opportunity, to have hope in amongst chaos. Whether it's lay offs, redundancy, changes at work, life changes, there is a story for you. Hosted by the author of Why losing your job could be the best thing to happen and Another Door Opens, Eleanor Tweddell. www.another-door-opens.com

Newest episodes

#181: Life after exit and becoming the work happiness geek with Richard Clarke

Nov 12, 2026 1 hr 2 min

"One of the main things you can do to be happy is to have a purpose in life. If you don't have a purpose, you're not going to be happy." Speaker and happiness expert Richard Clarke joins me to talk about navigating the emotional transitions of selling his company, what years of studying workplace happiness has taught him, and why we should ignore clichés and get practical about what really drives happiness at work and in life. From his journey founding and exiting a tech company (where team happiness was the number one KPI) to experimenting with every "fun" workplace trend he could find, Richard shares hard-won lessons on purpose, autonomy, and why learning what truly matters to teams makes all the difference. We explore his research (and mistakes), why "family" at work can be a problematic metaphor, what truly motivates people after financial needs are met, and the five-part framework for happiness at work. Highlights: 00:00 The simplest happiness hack and neuroplasticity 02:53 Introducing Richard: Building a happiness-first business 05:09 The door closing: Stepping down as CEO and selling the business 08:13 Handing over your "baby": The tough bits of letting go 11:00 Watching from the sidelines: why partial exits can be the hardest 13:27 Moving towards family time and why real change is so messy 20:07 The shock of a new chapter: Speaker life isn't what it seems 21:39 Why speaking, not coaching or writing, became his new passion 23:53 Becoming the "happiness geek" 37:03 The five drivers of workplace happiness 38:29 Community vs family and why belonging matters 43:54 Autonomy: why boundaries trump "total freedom" 52:34 Purpose: how hospital cleaners outdo the moon landing story 54:35 Auditing your own happiness: What's missing for you? Richard's Change Toolkit: Book: Let My People Go Surfing by Yvon Chouinard Soundtrack: "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey (and Glee) One piece of advice: "Just see the goo...

#180: Redefining "having it all" and the portfolio career with Fiona McDonnell

Oct 29, 2026 58 min

"Having it all for me means being in control of the trade-offs I'm making and splitting my time amongst the things that I find important rather than chasing somebody else's dream of this… superwoman who's doing everything and still being a mum and a worker." Author, commercial leader and speaker Fiona McDonnell shares what maternity, careers with brands like Amazon, Nike and Booking.com, and a major health event taught her about identity, choice and letting go of other people's "success". In her new book Decisions That Carry, Fiona explores what it takes to make rigorous and authentic decisions and bring people with you. And how to make balanced decisions alongside AI with your judgement visible enough that others can believe in it and own it - inspiring commitment, not just compliance. We talk about being a "human WD-40", why metaphors matter, and how her frameworks (from cheetahs to yellow bags) can help all of us navigate change and make braver decisions on our own terms, not someone else's. Highlights: 00:00 Exploring "having it all" with Fiona McDonnell 04:22 The door that changed everything 09:00 Returning to work and why she refused to accept sidelining 15:09 "Who is someone else to tell me I'm failing?" 18:09 The power of ignoring "shoulds" 22:22 Why the cheetah walks away and why you should too 28:13 The new book: Decisions That Carry 31:29 How to make choices you can live with 34:30 Exploring the yellow bag framework 39:18 Identity after big job titles 41:25 Try introducing yourself without a job title Fiona's Change Toolkit: Book: The Wonder Weeks by Hetty van de Rijt, the "manual for survival" for new parents Soundtrack: "Mental Calm" (piano piece from a lost pregnancy CD) & "Suddenly I See" by KT Tunstall One piece of advice: "Slow down, be patient, pause before you rush…patience will show you the way through change." About Fiona Fiona is a general manager, author, and speaker with a career that spans co...

#179: What brave leadership really looks like with David McQueen

Oct 15, 2026 1 hr 3 min

"Bravery for them is, well, I can sack 12,000 people and I can do it in an email at 9:30 on a Monday morning. That's not bravery, that's cowardice. I would look them in their face and go, you're a coward. Just because you've got the power…it doesn't make you brave at all." When is a "brave" decision really just avoiding humanity? David McQueen, leadership consultant, speaker, and author joins me for a provocative and honest conversation about change, leadership, and the myth of bravery at work. We discuss the doors that open when you seize terrifying opportunities like leaping into national TV late in life and why fame isn't always what it seems. David shares his passion for helping leaders make better, more human decisions, and the legacy he hopes to leave through empowering others, not being centre stage himself. Highlights: 00:00 Bravery vs. cowardice in leadership 02:32 Who is David McQueen? 03:40 Why we keep making the same mistakes 06:23 TV, Channel 4, TED Global, and working with Richard Branson 10:05 Why David chose impact over fame 13:26 The real legacy: empowering others, not being centre stage 14:19 "Personal brand" is capitalism, why David McQueen resists it 16:11 Using humour to create safety and challenge bias on stage 19:00 Why relatable storytelling beats "superhuman" motivation 22:18 Mistakes, vulnerability, and creating genuine connection 30:18 Writing "Brave" and the problem with "boldness" 36:12 Systemic barriers and why most senior men aren't equipped to lead women 38:19 Why "bold" doesn't mean harmful, true courage is facing discomfort 44:22 Curiosity, creativity, and the dangers of a frictionless, AI-driven world 51:38 Why we need tension and real argument to stay human. David's Change Toolkit: Book: Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler (plus The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and On Writing by Stephen King) Soundtrack: "Breezin" by George Benson & The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill by Laur...

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All episodes

#181: Life after exit and becoming the work happiness geek with Richard Clarke

Nov 12, 2026 1 hr 2 min

#180: Redefining "having it all" and the portfolio career with Fiona McDonnell

Oct 29, 2026 58 min

#179: What brave leadership really looks like with David McQueen

Oct 15, 2026 1 hr 3 min

#178: Never throw in the towel with Anthony Hutton

Oct 1, 2026 1 hr 5 min

"I'm speaking from proof, from experience…I do believe, if you really, really, really want to do something, you can." What happens when doors open to unimaginable fame, and then close again, leaving you to find a new way forward? In this very honest episode, Anthony Hutton, Big Brother winner, barber, and founder of Never Throw in the Towel joins me for a conversation about navigating extremes: overnight celebrity, public success, private struggles, and the reinvention forced by change. We chat about the unglamorous aftermath of reality TV victory,and why delusion and vision matter. We also explore letting go of identity, and how real stories can inspire a new purpose. Anthony also shares how sitting with discomfort, and real messy chats in the barber's chair, and a late grandmother's legacy shaped his journey into men's mental health advocacy and why it's never too late to open a new door, no matter how messy it gets. Highlights: 00:00 Intro: From Big Brother highs to rock bottom, meet Anthony Hutton 06:03 Early family life, football dreams, and the drive to prove himself 12:22 "I need to get on TV." Delusion and manifesting reality TV 14:25 The wins you get from a "failed" dream 18:28 Self-belief versus delusion, the power of "just being ridiculous" 20:10 "You have to work for it." What cranking yourself up to 10 looks like 26:31 What reality TV is really like behind the scenes 29:59 The "dirty word" of wanting to win 33:13 What happens when the door opens, the euphoria of overnight fame 34:52 The deal: £200k OK! photoshoot to wild celebrity nights 38:28 Door closing: fame fades and the slow, painful return to "normal" 41:27 Losing friends, lost identity, and being a "has-been" in his twenties 45:03 Moving, cutting out the chaos, and getting back to barbering 46:45 Becoming a listener and "unofficial therapist" for men 48:08 Grandma's death, and the birth of 'Never Throw in the Towel' 51:24 From free haircuts t...

#177: Creating a leadership legacy from the messy process of change with Ada Parris

Sep 17, 2026 1 hr 4 min

"Multiple things can be true. There's nothing binary about life." What happens when you step into the unknown, let go of predefined paths, and allow yourself to be messy, vulnerable, and unfinished? In this episode, Ada Parris artist, storyteller, and author of Leadership Legacy: A Manifesto to Create a Mindful Future and a Thriving Planet, talks about about paradox, transformation, and intentionally shaping new identities. We talk about the rawness of unmasking after decades of masking, the courage to sit with uncertainty and having faith in the unknown, and why sometimes the most radical act is to honour your ancestry, story, and soul. Ada shares the lived reality behind writing her book (from imposter syndrome to post-it notes in hotel rooms), the meaning behind reclaiming her name, and how silence, sound, and pausing have become tools for profound change. This is a moving exploration of why leadership and legacy matter beyond titles, how to be more than binary, and the real work of creating spaces where wholeness and paradox are celebrated. Highlights: 00:00 We are live & alive: the power of remembering our humanness 05:00 Permission to hold paradox: not trying to fit into a box 07:00 On storytelling, asking questions, and 3am curiosity 10:07 The "door": writing Leadership Legacy 12:21 Book deal, a new dog, and ADHD diagnosis: entering the cocoon 13:05 Vipassana, silence, and the difficulty of pausing 19:19 Emerging: burnout, intentionality, and slow becoming 21:00 The "crowning" moment, when you want to give up but can't 24:14 Who are you becoming? 26:26 People-pleasing as manipulation with a smile 33:05 The illusion of linear time and reclaiming your own rhythms 36:07 The elements as a creative framework: Ether, Air, Fire, Water, Earth 40:13 Shamanic experience, and metaphors for change 42:52 Letting go of control as a creator, responsibility and intention 44:46 Naming your inner critic, reframing Medusa...

#176: The career come down: What to do when work isn't working for you with Stefanie Sword-Williams

Sep 3, 2026 58 min

"The sort of door that closed for me was not necessarily somebody else shutting a door, but me shutting the door on putting work above everything but my health." What happens when the drive for success, identity, and achievement gets shaken by something that stops you in your tracks? In this episode, Stefanie Sword-Williams, founder of F**k Being Humble and author of Career Comedown, shares her experience of a "lifequake", an unexpected, seismic event that forces you to reassess everything, including your relationship with work. I chatted to Stefanie about why the "career comedown" is such a common but rarely named phenomenon, the pitfalls of always chasing the next high, and why sometimes the bravest thing is to decide which doors you yourself need to close. This is a very honest, refreshing, conversation about vulnerability, working out when (and what) to share, the myth of always being at the top, and how to check in with yourself whether you're feeling stuck, successful, or searching for the next thing. Highlights: 00:00 Shutting the door on unhealthy ambition 05:32 The impact of a "lifequake" and how it shakes everything up 09:57 Choosing what (and when) to share about your personal story 12:43 Vulnerability, boundaries, and healing in public 18:03 The idea behind "Career Come Down" 22:47 "Stick, Twist or Tap Out" - a practical framework for work decisions 38:13 Seeing your career as a "body of work" and redefining success 44:51 Gratitude guilt, ambition, and being happy at work 46:58 Why your support system matters 53:16 Favourite quotes on identity and life getting greater later Stefanie's Change Toolkit: Soundtrack: Let Me Blow Ya Mind by Eve & Gwen Stefani Book: Tiny Experiments by Anne-Laure Le Cunff and The Power of Regret by Daniel Pink One piece of advice: "I have two. Thasunda Brown Duckett said, job titles are rented, they come and go, but what remains true is the story we tell about ourselves. For anyone going through career tran...

#175: Closing the door on shame with Andrea McLean

Aug 20, 2026 1 hr 3 min

"I ended up losing that business. And not only did we lose the business, but we had self-funded it. So we lost our home, all our savings, my pension, everything... So that was a door that closed that I was not anticipating." What do you do when multiple doors slam shut all at once, career, home, health, identity? In this episode, Andrea McLean, broadcaster, author and former Loose Women host, shares her deeply honest story of losing her business, home, savings, health and sense of identity. She talks about the shame and upheaval that followed, selling her possessions and starting again in Spain and what she discovered when she had to let go of the life she thought she wanted. Andrea reflects on why we often limit our dreams to what we can imagine, and how sometimes life has a very different plan. Andrea also shares why we have to get over the shame that comes with doors closing, the theme from her book Shameless. This conversation is a good reminder that letting go can make space for something new and that resilience isn't about having all the answers, but finding the courage to take the next step. Highlights: 00:04 Losing the business and everything else along with it 02:32 Selling everything, packing up the car, and starting again in Spain 09:09 Letting go of things, expectations, and the myth of having it all 13:32 Life doesn't happen the way you vision board it 14:39 Trusting the process through hard days 18:07 Shame, status, and what we hide in the darkness 24:39 Resilience and the power to get back up again 38:05 Success redefined: safety, health, and a quiet life in the sun 48:20 Books that helped (and which to pack if you can only have a few) Andrea's Change Toolkit Soundtrack: Fleetwood Mac's Greatest Hits Books: Another Door Opens by Eleanor Tweddell and How to Face Big Change and Come Back Stronger by Helen Thorne One piece of advice: "If someone shows you who they are, believe them. If they are consistently showing a type...

#174: The power of rebellious play in moments of change with Gary Ware

Aug 6, 2026 1 hr 3 min

"We, as adults, go from seeing the world as a playground of possibilities to a proving ground, the need to prove to 'myself and to others that I'm worthy'. And when you have that mindset, the playfulness goes away because you're not seeing the world as something that is playful that you can experiment with." What happens when your life's defining door suddenly closes, not just once but in a cascade, career, home, certainty all at once? In this episode, Gary Ware, founder of Playful Rebellion, shares his journey from executive stress, pressure, challenge to rediscovering joy, creativity, and possibility through play. Gary explains how embracing openness, making "s****y drafts," and getting playful can help you navigate messy transitions and find new opportunities. If you're stuck in change, doubting your ideas, this episode will spark permission and practical tools to start playing again. Highlights: 00:00 Moving from proving ground to playground 05:45 The door closes: losing a business, a home, and identity all at once 08:44 Navigating chaos, shame, and hope through messy emotions 14:13 The "s****y draft": testing bold new career ideas 16:08 Lego therapy: how building with bricks helped rebuild possibility 21:22 Why you don't need a polished plan—just start, reach out, try 26:20 Discovering and defining the play personalities - how everyone plays 42:36 Why play isn't just games 45:14 Transforming crisis into a career 54:04 Writing Playful Rebellion, turning a challenge into a book 58:24 Toolkit: music, books, and advice for navigating change. Gary's Change Toolkit: Soundtrack: Golden Hour by JVKE Book: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert One piece of advice: "Find out what lights you up and then go do that because we need more people that are lit up, you know, doing those amazing things. And it doesn't necessarily mean that it needs to be your career or that you get paid for it. But when people are lit up through things that bring them joy, it's c...

#173: Confidence isn't given. Its practised, chosen, claimed with Lauren Currie

Jul 23, 2026 1 hr 1 min

"Confidence is the first step of protest. And whether that is a protest where you make a sign and you go and stand outside down the street, or whether it's a protest when you're in a doctor's surgery room and the doctor's not listening to you, or whether it's a protest at the school gates because your kid's teacher's not taking your kid's needs seriously. Confidence is the first step of that self-advocacy and we need that so much right now because the tactics that our governments are using is fear. Fear divides people. Fear keeps people small, and fear takes your confidence away." When does a moment of frustration lead to a movement that helps people to be more confident? In this episode, Lauren Currie, an artist, entrepreneur, and founder of Upfront, shares how it all started, and where it's all heading. From confronting systemic sexism on conference stages to the evolution of her business, how we can follow our path and take on the barriers that we come across. We dig into why confidence is not a personality trait but a practice, how "small protests" can reshape culture, and what happens when you step into (and own) your creative identity as an artist, leader, and author. If you're looking for inspiration to start or to keep going on your own change journey, this conversation will inspire you to take the first step. Highlights: 00:00 Confidence as protest in a culture of fear 02:38 Meet Lauren Currie: artist, entrepreneur, mom, founder of Upfront 07:35 The "other door" moment: when one stage opens another 09:47 Creating safe practice spaces for women's voices 12:25 Realising confidence is a systemic, not personal, problem 14:10 The red sofa movement, prototyping a new stage 17:38 Are we losing progress for women? 25:10 The nuances of supporting men and navigating backlash 27:34 Internalised misogyny and women in power 29:11 The surprisingly fun (and long!) journey to publishing a book 34:48 Grit and honesty: "nobody else is go...

#172: Closing the door on a London agency and building a new creative life in France with Lucy Werner

Jul 2, 2026 1 hr 2 min

"I have found, when I've shared my fails as well as the journey to getting to my wins, the people who are there with me at the winning line, that finish line, are more involved in that story because they've come with me on the journey. And more often than not, the fails on the journey have led to more opportunities landing for me because people want to talk to me about the fails more than the the wins." What does it really take to shut the door on a thriving city business and step into an entirely different life in rural France ? In this episode, I speak to Lucy Werner shares the honest story behind her midlife relocation from London PR agency owner to creative entrepreneur deep in rural France. From testing the extremes of a new place (she picked the bleakest winter to see if she'd survive), making peace with a vanishing identity, facing language and cultural mishaps, and learning to create opportunities in a new place, Lucy is refreshingly upfront about the messy, emotional reality behind "living the dream." If you're making a big change or you just want insight into real-life reinvention, this episode offers both inspiration and permission to embrace the adventure (and the failures). Highlights 00:00 Show a bit of ankle: Why sharing your messy bits matters 02:57 Meet Lucy Werner: author and creative force behind HypeYourself.com 04:45 The decision to leave London 06:30 The everyday build-up that pushed her to relocate 08:21 Testing the worst-case scenario 11:14 Adapting her business model and why hiding her new life didn't work 16:15 The unexpected opportunities in rural France 19:11 Losing the city, and gaining a new sense of self 25:46 Loneliness, isolation, and building real connection as an expat 32:37 "Too many open doors": Is moving once ever enough? 39:30 What makes somewhere home after a big change? 43:02 Why Lucy Werner chose the newsletter route over social media 46:44 The power of play, testing, and saying yes to imperfect exp...

#171: Navigating life, fame, and self-discovery with Anthony Kavanagh

Apr 30, 2026 1 hr 4 min

In this heartfelt conversation, Anthony Kavanagh shares the ups and downs of his journey from aspiring pop star to author, exploring themes of resilience, vulnerability, and authentic self-expression. This episode is about overcoming personal challenges and embracing life's unpredictable twists. Key topics we cover - Anthony's early dreams of music and the drive to succeed in the 90s pop scene The power of storytelling in healing and self-discovery Insights into writing a memoir and revisiting past traumas Memorable moments with celebrities like Madonna, Prince, and Faye Dunaway Navigating the relationship between fame, authenticity, and mental health The significance of "underthinking" and living in the present moment Practical advice: the importance of love, gratitude, and living in the now "Embrace love, live authentically, and be present in the moment. Ask yourself, 'What would love do?' to guide your decisions and navigate life's challenges." Anthony Kavannah Timestamps: 04:45 - The drive behind Anthony's ambitions and chasing feelings 05:41 - Early days: Manchester, music dreams, and serendipity 07:06 - First break: nightclub encounter with a music manager 08:02 - Firing from McDonald's: a pivotal moment 09:16 - The power of manifestation and self-belief 10:02 - Reflections on imposter syndrome and innocence in success 16:44 - Crazy moments in LA and celebrity sightings 18:17 - Reflecting on fame and surreal experiences 19:27 - Returning to creative work and the impact of vulnerability 20:47 - Challenges of writing memoirs and revisiting trauma 22:17 - The importance of voice consistency and authenticity in writing 23:41 - The origin of "Pop Scars" and his book's deeper message 25:33 - His battle with addiction and the journey to sobriety 27:24 - The influence of recovery in his storytelling 29:13 - Navigating publishing and cover choices 30:46 - The broader message behind his memoir beyond fame 32:44 - The music scene of the...

#170: How leaving the wrong job opened the right door for Cara-Lyn Giovanniello

Feb 5, 2026 37 min

"Don't confuse comfort with alignment. Just because something is familiar, stable, or impressive on paper doesn't mean it's meant for who you're becoming or what the universe has in store for you." What happens when you land the job that seemed perfect only to find, deep down, it isn't right at all? In this episode, Cara-Lyn talks about the daunting process of leaving a high-profile role that simply wasn't a fit, and how that closed door became fuel for reinvention. From wrongly ignoring her intuition, through the physical toll of staying somewhere misaligned, to finally making the leap into entrepreneurship Cara-Lyn shares how being forced out was the best thing that ever happened to her. Now, she's built a thriving leadership development business, continues to grow, and is on a mission to help others trust their gut and step into possibility. If you're in a period of transition or questioning your current path, this conversation is well worth listening to. Highlights: 00:00 Why growth often follows tough endings 02:01 The dream job that wasn't and what happened next 06:21 The physical signs it's time to move on 08:23 Why leaving (even not by your choice) can be the best thing for you 11:06 The power of mindset in reframing "bad decisions" 13:51 Listening to intuition even when it goes against logic 15:01 Taking the leap: from layoff to launching a business 17:39 Building up confidence through experience 18:44 The difference relationships made in her new path 24:12 Why honest conversations with leaders matter 26:43 How to know you're on the right track 28:13 What doors are next: new programmes, speaking gigs, and more Cara's Change Toolkit: Soundtracks: 'Rain' by The Teskey Brothers and Recomposed: Vivaldi – The Four Seasons by Max Richter Book: Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg – for building better relationships and expressing what you need One piece of advice: "Trust your intuition and don't confuse comfort with alignment. A...

#169: Following coincidences; from retired teacher to battle rapper with Joy France

Jan 22, 2026 30 min

Ever wondered what happens when you say "yes" to life's weird coincidences and let them lead you somewhere completely new? In this episode I talk to Joy France, a retired teacher turned poet, performer, and battle rapper about her wild ride into creativity and adventure… all by simply following unexpected doors as they opened. Joy shares her story of evolving after retirement: from socially anxious, shy, and "ordinary" to poet-in-residence, rap battler, stand-up comic, and "collector of chance encounters." If you're feeling stuck, bored, or ready for change, Joy's approach to following coincidences, no matter how leftfield, will have you rethinking what's possible, and might just nudge you to open a new door to creativity. Here are the highlights: 00:00 The retired teacher who followed coincidences and said yes to opportunities 09:09 Retirement sparked a creative adventure 10:37 Pitching a free creative space for all art forms, and they said yes! 19:57 Embrace courage, ignore opinions, and the world becomes limitless. 28:15 Take opportunities for change without fear of judgment. Joy's change toolkit: Soundtrack: "Brimful of Asha" – Cornershop Book: "I used to read a lot when I didn't have a life. Now I barely read, I'm too busy living!" One Piece of Advice: "People are presented with opportunities for change but don't step into them. My advice? Don't be terrified. If you're not hurting anyone, why not do the thing? Don't wait for 'one day', you never know what's ahead. If there's something, why not go for it now?" About Joy France: Joy's life has been one of 2 halves. She was a quiet, unassuming teacher, always worrying about what others thought. That is, until her mid-50's when she finally found her voice and the courage to embrace life. Joy challenged herself to do 60 new things at the age of 60 and had so much fun that she's continued to "grow old playfully." Joy is an all round creative - a multiple slam-winning poet, stand-up comedia...

#168: Paying attention to endings, the power of closing things well with Philip Atkinson

Jan 8, 2026 36 min

#168: Paying attention to endings, the power of closing things well with Philip Atkinson "Keep moving, keep learning, keep investing in your own development. Don't hang on to the value that you used to have that's no longer relevant, no longer fit for purpose." Have you ever felt the seasons of your own life shifting, nudging you to find the courage to start anew? That's exactly what we're exploring on today's episode. When I sat down with Philip Atkinson, we talked about his unique journey. After 25 years in a big multinational, he walked away from the comfort and certainty, stepping into the unknown to build something entirely his own. This is the bit I love, part of that journey Philip has written a great, however not just a book about leadership or change. His book, Bee Wise: 12 Leadership Lessons from a Busy Beehive, brings together his wisdom and observations from work experience with his love of bees, and specifically the rituals of bees. He weaves together what bees can teach us about teams, cycles, and closure. It's a brilliant read, with so many intriguing layers to the insights. This is the perfect conversation if you want to activate your curious mind! Highlights: 00:04 The power of letting go, lifelong learning, and personal development 06:01 Understanding emotional exits 10:53 Why Western cultures struggle with endings 13:02 Ceremonies, rituals & why we need to mark our endings 14:56 Projects or experiments? Why reframing failure helps us grow 16:37 How reward systems make closure difficult (and how to break out) 18:42 Why Philip combined his love of bees with leadership coaching 20:01 Building HiveLogic 22:45 Why seasons matter (for bees and personal reinvention) 24:00 Lessons from the beehive 34:30 Pay attention to endings. Close every meeting, project, and phase well. Philip's Change Toolkit: Soundtrack: "Don't Stop Me Now" – Queen Book: Time to Think – Nancy Klein One piece of advice: "Pay attention to endings. If it's time...

#167 Sparking Joy, Playing with Possibility and Rebranding Life with Sapna Pieroux

Dec 18, 2025 54 min

"Life's been tough over the last couple of years not just for me, but economically, for a lot of businesses. If I can bring joy into business owners' lives and make them feel better about what they're doing, that's brilliant." Ever wondered how to reopen doors (or even build brand new ones) after life throws you a curveball? This episode is all about finding the spark of joy, even in your darkest moments, and building communities that thrive on play, experimentation, and authentic connection. I'm joined by brand strategist, author, and accidental entrepreneur Sapna Pieroux, who opens up about pausing her business after a breast cancer diagnosis, dealing with grief, rediscovering herself through play, and why "karaoke networking" (aka The NotWorkers) might be the future of business building. Sapna shares how volunteering, creativity, and saying YES to the things that spark joy led her not just to restart, but to totally reinvent what community means in business. Highlights: 00:05 Why play matters more than ever in business and life 04:05 Sapna's cancer journey and closing her business 05:28 Walking through grief and rediscovering herself 07:03 How coaching (and the search for joy) transformed her next steps 09:56 Volunteering, Borrow My Doggy, and finding joy in small moments 14:03 The birth of The NotWorkers, karaoke as business networking 16:33 Why the caliber of company beats perfect pitch 18:25 How play fast-tracks real relationships (and great business) 19:00 Personal brand vs. business brand, how Sapna evolved her business 28:06 Playfulness as a business advantage 31:31 Play, creativity, and mental health, why it works 37:04 Why your hobbies and passions matter for your brand 42:18 Practical tips: Getting visible when you're navigating change 49:03 Sapna's soundtrack for change (think: karaoke gems!) 50:25 The books that shaped Sapna's journey 52:43 The best advice for navigating change (and life) with joy Sapna's Change Toolkit: Soundtra...

#166 Turning down a 'Dream Job' and saying Yes before you're ready with Katie Best

Dec 11, 2025 48 min

"Be brave enough to say yes even if it wasn't in your niche or part of 'the plan'. That's what keeps you moving forward before you're ready for that next door to open." Ever wrestled with the idea of turning down your "dream job"? This episode is exploring the tricky decisions we have to make in moments of change and how to solve leadership problems that are really just life problems in disguise. I'm joined by Katie Best, a leadership expert, author, and consultant who shares her personal closing door moment: letting go of her dream role in the creative industries to invest fully in building her own business. Katie shares her story about 'the chase', 'the pivot', and 'the messy', and the reality of starting a consultancy from scratch including how simply saying "yes" can unlock unexpected opportunities. Highlights: 00:22 Katie's "dream job" offer and why she walked away 06:02 Chasing the dream and what happens when you achieve it 10:00 Saying no for work-life balance and owning your choices 13:09 The serendipity that launched her consultancy 15:59 How she landed her first clients 17:49 Why being open (not stubborn about niche) builds runway for your business 23:45 Building her book: The 10 Toughest Leadership Problems (which are really life problems) 26:31 The number one issue leaders face - self-management and personal effectiveness 29:50 "Decidophobia", and why not deciding is still a decision 33:29 Why leaders should explain their decisions and show their thinking 35:50 Katie's SOLVE framework for problem solving. Katie's Change Toolkit Soundtrack: "L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N" by Noah and the Whale Book: Make Time by Jake Knapp & John Zeratsky One piece of advice: "Pause and do the research. Don't rush to a solution, take time to dig into the feelings, understand what's really going on, and embrace the messiness of change." More about Katie Dr Katie Best is the founder and director of Katie Best Associates, a leadership development consul...

#165 From horror to hope; the emergence of resilience and optimism following tragedy and crisis with Caroline Roodhouse

Nov 27, 2025 44 min

"It's not a tick box exercise. It's a genuine need to care for people and other human beings. Ultimately they'll thrive again given the right support…and bring a whole new level of compassion and empathy if they're nurtured the right way." What happens when your life changes in an instant, not by choice but by tragedy? In this episode I'm with Caroline Roodhouse, who shares her incredibly moving story of losing her husband to suicide, the surreal aftermath, and the slow journey of rebuilding identity, family, and hope. Caroline opens the door on grief: the shock, the vividness and then the blur, learning to parent alone, redefining family from a 'square' to a 'triangle', and the tools and thinking that helped her through the darkest chapters. We talk about being a 'hope carrier,' the lifelong waves of loss, and the vital work of supporting others at home, in the workplace, and in community. Caroline is an incredible people, impressive with her ability to share how she navigating the hardest moment of her life, and now support others in that moment. The Highlights: 00:14 The moment everything changed 06:14 How it feels when the ordinary is shattered 08:47 Parenting through grief and finding yourself at rock bottom 11:03 Finding strength in new shapes: from a fragile triangle to resilience 13:14 Building a triangle of recovery: self, children, community 16:24 The "hope carrier", what it means and why it matters 21:19 Navigating the unpredictable waves of loss, identity, and reminders 26:01 Turning lived experience into advocacy and helping others 29:38 The reality of workplace support 33:17 Practical advice: checking in, communication, and true humanity 35:14 Supporting someone through trauma: what actually helps What Helped Caroline Navigate Change: Soundtrack: Anything by Taylor Swift (thanks to the kids!) Book: Emotional Agility by Susan David One piece of advice: "Try not dwelling on the past and not worrying about the future, just focus...

#164 What really happens when you're the only man at the toddler group with Lee Chambers

Nov 13, 2025 56 min

"No matter what you do in life, you're gonna get judged. You may as well just embrace exactly what you want to do at that moment in time. Open that door. Go through it. You'll be a bit scared. It'll be new, it'll be novel. You'll definitely learn a lot about yourself. You will be challenged, you will be supported." What happens when you choose to walk away from what society expects of you and step through a door that feels equal parts terrifying and right? In this episode, I speak to Lee Chambers, psychologist, entrepreneur, author, and leading voice in the male allyship space for an honest conversation about courage, redefining leadership, and creating true inclusivity. Lee shares the moment he left his successful tech business to become a stay-at-home dad, and what he has learned stepping into unfamiliar rooms and how listening to mothers, grandmothers, and his own discomfort, has inspired a career dedicated to justice and equity. We talk about allyship and why now, more than ever, it's needed and is the foundation for the change we want in the world. The Highlights: 04:36 Closing the door on the business and becoming a stay-at-home dad 06:19 What really happens when you're the only man at the toddler group 08:26 Navigating other people's judgment 15:16 Learning to walk again 21:28 Curiosity, justice, and entering the work of allyship 23:37 What women shared that changed his path 24:59 Why male allyship is not "rescuing" but partnership and humility 32:08 The power of introversion, and how Lee creates impactful content 38:05 Skills of allyship - stepping forward to the side and back 41:11 Misplaced "scarcity," and the unseen privilege of building equality 48:06 Why challenging conversations and self-exploration are essential. Lee's navigating change list Soundtrack: "Harvest for the World" by The Isley Brothers Book: Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez One piece of advice: "When you walk through a door, you normally walk in from...

#163 Being confidently lost and finding joy in the chaos with Gavin Oattes

Oct 30, 2025 57 min

"If you look for them, glimmers, these little micro moments of joy, are everywhere." What if being lost isn't a problem to fix, but a path to joy and self-discovery? In this episode, I speak with Gavin Oattes author, speaker, creativity advocate, and former stand-up comedian for a conversation about closing doors, moving forward, and how letting go can be the bravest thing you do. Gavin shares his journey from a whirlwind comedy career (with stories of sold-out shows, almost-making-it, and friendship tensions) to running a business, writing uplifting books, and learning how to navigate seismic life changes. If you've ever faced a breakup (romantic, platonic, or creative), wondered what glimmers of joy might be hiding in the chaos, or just need reassurance that being "confidently lost" is a great place to start, this episode is essential listening. The Highlights: 03:40 Gavin's closing door: Saying goodbye to stand-up comedy and creative partnerships 07:33 Friendship breakups and why endings aren't always "bad" 13:29 Knowing when to let go even if your heart's still in it 17:26 How to honour the magic rather than mourn what-might-have-been 19:12 Family change, shifting priorities, growing through life's phases 21:17 Getting "ghosted" and learning to move on 23:33 Gavin's new chapter: Writing as a way out of chaos 30:29 Glimmers—a practice for finding joy when you're lost 35:18 Reverse goal-setting & why the next "shiny thing" won't always make you happy 39:53 Writing for yourself (and letting go of the outcome) What helped Gavin navigate change: Soundtrack: Dookie by Green Day Book: Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom One piece of advice: "You are not everyone else. We're each an experiment of one, and accepting that is truly door-opening." About Gavin Oattes: Gavin Oattes owns Tree of Knowledge, one of the UK's most exciting people development organisations. Working with some of the largest organisations in the world, Gavin is now regar...

#162 Why the most important goodbye you'll ever say is to the relationship that kept you small with Elizabeth Aldana

Oct 16, 2025 54 min

"Start to not tolerate things, and the bigger things will become easier." What if the hardest (and most transformative) endings in our lives are the ones we choose ourselves? In this episode, I chat with Elizabeth Aldana, Breakup Artist, coach, and advocate for navigating change on your own terms. Elizabeth shares her story of moving across the world from LA to Singapore in a whirlwind week, not because she had to, but because a part of her just wouldn't tolerate staying still any longer. It was the first major "breakup" she initiated not just from a partner, but from her old patterns, relationships, and ways of seeing herself. This conversation explores what it takes to recognise the little (and big) things you're tolerating in life, how to build the muscle of choosing change, and why breakups aren't just about romance, they're about leaving behind people, places, and patterns that no longer fit. So, if you're teetering on the edge of a decision, feel stuck in old habits, and ready to open a new door, this conversation is for you. The Highlights: 03:38 Closing the door yourself: Elizabeth's story of moving to Singapore 07:30 The very real (messy) inner conversations behind big choices 10:09 How stepping away reveals who you can become 16:17 Fear vs. Love: The two energies that drive all big decisions 21:27 Why leaving a job with nothing lined up can be the most self-loving decision 26:27 Why small changes prime you for bigger ones 36:32 Why you don't have to fit yourself into anyone else's box 45:08 Projection, people-pleasing, and knowing when it's time to initiate your own ending 51:28 The story and belief you hold in change determines which door opens next What helped Elizabeth navigate change: Soundtrack: Rose Quartz by Toro y Moi Book: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig One piece of advice: "Be aware of what you believe about the situation and the story you're creating. It will impact which door opens next."...

#161 When one door closes, how do we get through that messy bit in the middle, to another door opening: tune into the launch of Another Door Opens

Oct 2, 2025 1 hr 4 min

"Change is messy, but it's also fertile ground. Pause. Rest. Play. Try. Restart. The five steps aren't a life 'hack' , they're a thinking space to get you through so that you can find joy, calm and opportunity amongst the chaos." How good are you at navigating change? What happens when life throws you out of your comfort zone and into the unknown? How do you let go, rest, experiment, and eventually restart when you're not sure what comes next? This special episode celebrates the launch of Another Door Opens: 5 steps for navigating change, my latest book guiding you through the real, messy, emotional process of change. Guest host Mark Shayler (author, speaker, environmental consultant, and spoon-carver extraordinaire!) interviews yours truly for a raw, uncensored conversation about what inspired the book, the ideas behind the 5 steps, how we can do change better and how we all struggle (and grow) through the in-between. This one's for anyone experiencing change at work or in life, starting over, or supporting others navigating their own doors closing and opening. The Highlights: 05:10 Why the book is needed and the dangers of getting stuck in old patterns 07:11 The practice of "letting go", why it's so hard, the letter to your closing door, and honouring your old self 12:30 The gift of the in-between: embracing messiness and the discomfort of pausing 17:13 Rest as resistance: radical naps and breaking the "busy" spell 19:30 Five steps to navigating change: Pause, Mess, Play, Try, Restart how to use the framework and why it's not strictly linear 24:53 Why play feels uncomfortable for adults! 33:02 Permission to feel everything, staying with uncomfortable emotions, and why it can be magical 35:22 Using music, movement, and collective energy as fuel in times of change 38:49 Purpose (without grandiosity): showing up for what matters today, and reframing the "why" 45:03 What businesses (and all of us!) get wrong about change, and the importance of benefit mi...

#160 The best thing you've ever done is ahead of you and will always be ahead of you with Dan Kieran

Sep 18, 2025 43 min

"If you look back on your life and see that you would have done something differently, that means you're wiser now than you were then. And that means, by definition, the best thing you've ever done is ahead of you and will always be ahead of you." What happens when you walk away from the thing that defined you, your job, your identity, your sense of success and step into a space of not knowing? In this episode, I speak to writer, entrepreneur, and all-around inspiring human, Dan Kieran. The co-founder of the pioneering publishing platform Unbound, Dan shares his story of closing the door and walking away from his creation, his vision, but knowing it was time to move on. Dan shares the exhaustion of life as a CEO, the ego death that comes from letting go, and the unexpected joy (and financial precarity!) of redefining what success means on your own terms. So tune-in if you've ever wondered whether it's time to move on, felt stuck in a life that looks "successful" on the outside, or craved permission to pursue meaning over metrics. The Highlights: 04:07 How Unbound was created and the rollercoaster ride of startup life 10:44 When the hot streak ends: pandemic, VCs, and knowing when you're done 14:55 Identity loss, ego death, and what's left when the title disappears 17:21 Carl Jung, two adulthoods, and why your second act is worth celebrating 22:13 Why "not knowing" your next step is a huge opportunity 24:05 Practical advice: preparing for change without a perfect plan 27:49 Bringing your family (and your honesty) with you through change 30:06 Autotelic living: doing things for their own sake, not just the external rewards. What helped Dan navigate change: Soundtrack: Birdsong, especially blackbirds in the garden and forest. Dan recommends getting outside, into nature, as a grounding soundtrack for big transitions. Book: The Middle Passage by James Hollis One piece of advice: "If you look back and see...

#159 5 lessons from failing Ninja Warrior with Brandon Clift

Sep 4, 2025 55 min

"Are you at least willing to push through the discomfort so that the team can win, so that your family can win, so that the mission can win and ultimately perhaps so that you can win?" Have you ever had life slam a door in your face maybe even in the most public way possible? What if, in that moment, you could hit pause, dig into the mess, and come out the other side with fresh lessons (and maybe even a laugh or two)? In this episode, I talk to executive coach and all-around inspiring human, Brandon Clift. Brandon shares his spectacular "door closed" moment on national TV as a contestant on Australian Ninja Warrior, and the series of reflections and transformations that followed his Ninja splashdown. This conversation dives (literally at some points) right into the messy reality of change, confidence, ego, failure, and finding humility when life doesn't go to plan. Brandon gets honest about what happens when your head gets a little too big, and how embracing the true lessons in failure can completely shift your story. If you've ever been blindsided by an unexpected turn, questioned your own confidence, or wondered how to pick yourself up, this episode is for you. The Highlights: 04:24 From gymnastics to van life: when breakdowns lead to breakthroughs 08:40 Why extreme confidence can tip into arrogance 13:03 Ninja Warrior: the inside story 19:28 When overconfidence means you miss the details right in front of you 23:16 Identifying personal blind spots and rewriting old stories 27:12 Shadow work, childhood beliefs, and facing your own truth 34:44 The power in detaching from outcomes (and why Buddhist wisdom beats business hype) 38:31 Supporting others, men's circles, and getting out of your own head 41:57 From Ninja crash test to executive coach. What helped Brandon navigate change: Soundtrack: "It's Nice To Be Alive" by Ball Park Music Book: Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink One piece of advice: "Take stock of the stories you're telling yourse...

#158 How to keep going through the setbacks with Mike Morrison

Aug 28, 2025 50 min

"When you're too comfortable, when you have space to overthink, then nothing happens... But when there's fire under you, you have to move, or you die." In this episode, we are joined by Mike Morrison, entrepreneur, founder of Membership Geeks, and a true veteran of life's unexpected detours. Mike shares openly about the many doors that have closed throughout his career and personal life, including the literal locked door that ended his "secure" marketing job, relationship breakdowns, and the surprising, sudden departure of his co-founder. Each setback forced Mike to reimagine what was next, galvanising him to build something new from the ashes. We talk about the uncomfortable, messy bits of change: how the emergency of a closed door can often push us toward clarity, the myth of job security, and why sometimes losing everything is the spark you need to re-launch. The Highlights: 04:30 The closed door: a company goes into administration, a post-it note, and no safety net 09:51 Losing both a job and a marriage 14:08 Why real change means letting go of comfort, overthinking, and pride 18:32 "Doing my own thing" from hustling for clients to growing a multi-seven figure business 24:19 Why how you handle each closed door will change over time 28:33 Finding clarity in chaos, and the unexpected freedom of taking action 35:33 Coping with big business changes: when your co-founder leaves 40:00 Slowing down, survival mode, and not rushing the 'new normal' 41:31 Developing your way of managing change, even when the path isn't clear. What helped Mike navigate change: Soundtrack: Anything from the albums Mesmerize and Hypnotize by System of a Down. Book: Go It Alone by Geoff Burch (for practical, no-nonsense business advice); The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k by Mark Manson One piece of advice: "Try and think of what this change makes possible even the smallest things. Sit with a pen and notebook and ask: what doors does this open? You can always find somethi...

#157 The layoff journey: from dismissal to discovery with Steve Jaffe

Jul 31, 2025 41 min

"Resist that urge to jump right into job applications and start applying. You want to give yourself some space to process what you've been through and maybe avoid making any big decisions." In this episode, we have Steve Jaffe, author of The Layoff Journey: From Dismissal to Discovery. Steve has been laid off four times during his career each time making space for reflection, resilience, and ultimately, growth. We talk about the messy middle: what it really feels like to lose your job, how to process grief and anger, and why hope, connection, and self-care make all the difference. Steve shares stories from his own journey, what he's learned from starting over. We chat about why you should always keep building your network, and how every door that closes can make room for unexpected opportunities. The Highlights: 04:06 Why now is the time for authentic conversations about job loss 06:32 Steve's first layoff, the loss of confidence, and an unexpected popcorn-scented flashback 10:37 Keep going vs. giving up, and the role of hope 11:48 After every layoff I've always come back stronger. 13:48 Not settling - why your next job could be an upgrade 15:25 Building real relationships (before you need them!) and helping others 20:32 The mind-body-spirit approach to dealing with a setback 23:14 Why layoffs are so common (40% of Americans!) 30:15 Why you need to let yourself feel all the feelings 40:10 What's Next: Steve hints at writing another book! What helped Steve navigate change: Soundtrack: Unstoppable by Sia, Freedom by Beyoncé, Closing Time by Semisonic Book: Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing One piece of advice: "A closed door is not the end of the story, it's an invitation to something new. Give yourself some grace in that messy middle and pause for growth." About Steve Jaffe 2024 taught Steve that marketing strategy and writing a book have more in common than you'd think. Both require a deep understanding of your audience,...

#156 The importance of empathy at work in times of change with June Hogan

Jul 17, 2025 46 min

"Sympathy is rushing to turn the light on into someone's darkness so that we feel better, whereas empathy is being prepared to sit with somebody in their darkness and connect with them and just be there for them." In this episode, I'm joined by June Hogan. June helps organisations to do redundancy and layoffs well! So of course I'm a fan. It's never easy or simple when companies have to let people go, but it can be done well, and with empathy and fairness. This is what June's work is all about. We talk about the difference between empathy and sympathy when you are leading change, or letting your team go. How organisations can do redundancies well. And June shares her story of embracing life-changing moments, sitting with the discomfort of the unknown, and discovering that transformation can often be waiting on the other side of uncertainty. Our conversation is all about what it means to open new doors in your life and career. Whether you're facing redundancy, longing for something different, or simply rethinking your relationship with work, we dig into the messy, honest reality of change. June shares the wisdom she's gained from not just walking through her own doors, but from supporting others. The highlights: 04:09 From HR to Coach: June's pivot 11:32 Finding your niche after redundancy 14:16 The myth of having it all figured out (and why it's okay to be "messy") 17:46 Re-thinking identity, self-worth, and shame after losing your job 18:49 The overlooked emotional toll of delivering bad news at work 23:50 Sympathy vs. Empathy (and how to truly support people in tough moments) 32:35 The pace of change: why redundancy and layoffs feel more sudden than ever 36:07 The double-edged sword of too much (or too little) warning 43:28 How to give yourself permission to "pause" and feel during change Things that help June navigate change: Soundtrack: "Can't Stop the Feeling" by Justin Timberlake (yes, the Trolls movie one). Books: The Gifts of Imperfect...

#155 The no bullsh*t approach to life, career and leadership with Chris Hirst

Jul 3, 2025 1 hr 19 min

"You can have a bad day, some days, that's fine. But then at some point, you've got to go, all right, I've got to take a little bit of responsibility now and get on with this." In this 'epic' (long!) episode, I sit down with Chris Hirst, author known for his "no bullsh*t" approach to leadership and work. We go deep, wide and around the block talking about the realities and myths of career progression, change, redundancy, and what it really means to be a leader. Chris shares transformative moments in his career, including going to Harvard and facing redundancy, and how these experiences shaped his perspective on success, self-identity, and responsibility. If you're questioning your next step, looking for the truth about modern leadership, or searching for practical wisdom on navigating the world of work, this will give you plenty to reflect on (and maybe even prompt some action). The highlights: 05:04 Chris's "door closing" moments: Harvard revelations and sudden redundancy 08:24 Why losing your job is so disorientating and what nobody tells you about structure 13:25 The underrated power of curiosity (and why not having answers is okay) 20:12 Doing "everything right"…and still struggling (it's not just you) 25:58 Why the biggest barrier to your own success is (usually) you 28:26 The pivotal experience that changed Chris's self-narrative forever 33:11 Why moments of struggle aren't wrong, they're just life 38:06 The real reason vulnerability is hard at work (and that awkward HR conversation) 01:01:06 Finding comfort in what you're good at, not just escaping to something new The things that help Chris navigate change: Activities: Playing tennis and writing Books: Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy by John le Carré; Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies by Hilary Mantel, and Citizens by Simon Schama. One piece of advice: "Nobody's coming to save you. Ultimately, the thing that's either going to move you forward or get in your way,...

#154 Breaking barriers and empowering the next generation with Marie-Ange Eyoum Tagne, PhD

Jun 8, 2025 53 min

"I want to frame my journey to be an example, to be a road map, to hand the baton to somebody else, to the next generation." In this episode, Marie-Ange Eyoum Tagne, PhD, a product leader, and technologist, shares the inspiration behind her new memoir "For Such a Time Like This". From her childhood in Cameroon, dreaming of going to the moon, to leading teams at Meta, Amazon and Yahoo, Marie-Ange's journey is a powerful testament to following your heart, staying strong, even when everything around you suggests you should be doing something completely different. Marie-Ange includes a brilliant framework , PURPOSE, to help others navigate challenges. Her book is an incredible memoir about her life, but also a great inspiration and lessons for those following her path. Here are the highlights: 03:49 Closing a door in tech and how it opened a door to writing 07:34 Why technology is in her DNA, and what's next 13:00 That vivid childhood moment of ambition 19:46 "Pioneer, not troublemaker" the importance of being a trailblazer 28:13 The meaning behind her book, "For Such a Time Like This". 32:14 Using the "PURPOSE" framework to help others 41:01 A tribute to her mother, and three generations of women breaking barriers. Things that helped Marie-Ange navigate change: Music: "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran Book: The Bible One piece of advice: "Take risk. Take more risk. Don't be afraid to fail. If you never fail, it means you never tried. Every experience prepares you for such a time like this." About Dr. Marie-Ange Eyoum Tagne, PhD Dr. Marie-Ange Eyoum Tagne is a global technology executive, product strategist, coach, mentor and speaker whose journey from hardship to hope has inspired audiences around the world. She has a deep passion to empower the next generation of leaders, especially women and underrepresented minorities in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering Mathematics) fields. Born and ra...

#153 Finding a different way to use your magic (and humour) with Emma Djemil

Jun 5, 2025 43 min

"There has to be a different way for me to use my magic in the world. My magic can't keep mopping up messes that are created by ridiculous decisions like this." When HR Director Emma Djemil hit a moment of 'enough is enough' she knew it was time for her skills, energy, passions to be directed elsewhere. Stuck cleaning up the messes of others, she knew it was time for a big change. In this episode, Emma talks about what it really takes to walk away from a toxic job, where to find the drive for something new, and why humour is such a powerful tool for getting through it all. Emma shares her honest story about leaving corporate life, how she discovered her own voice online, and what helped her put herself first. Here are the highlights: 04:00 Emma's "closing door" moment – when enough was enough 08:10 From rage to purpose: the real reasons that ignite career change 17:25 The myth of imposter syndrome 24:30 Why your uniqueness is your superpower 26:04 Not everyone has to be "your people" (and why that's liberating) 33:00 Humour as resilience: using comedy to survive (and thrive) The things that helped Emma navigate change: Music: "Salute" by Little Mix (and some Erasure for that retro energy!) Book: "The Fix: Overcome the Invisible Barriers That Are Holding Women Back at Work" by Dr. Michelle King One piece of advice: "Be willing to try and have faith you'll be okay, whatever the outcome. If it's not okay, it's not the end." About Emma: As the Founder of The HR Club (a no-BS community of over 100 women) and creator of The HR Big Meet (an annual conference that actually focuses on women's wellbeing instead of just adding "resilience" to their to-do list), Emma is on a mission to make work suck less. She could tell you about her 18 years in HR, her Certificate in Applied Neuroscience, or her accreditation as a Brain and Behaviour Change Practitioner, all of which are very serious and important. But what really...

#152 Starting all over again with Mark Green

May 22, 2025 47 min

"There were two significant moments, two significant doors. One was the thought of that's it. I'm dead. Door closed on everything. And the other moment was when the consultant said, you can have all this back. You've just got to work for it. Door open." In this episode, Mark Green, founder of Change Rebellion, shares his wild story of a door closing, nearly for good, and how it changed him and his perspective for life. It's not just a story about navigating professional change; it's about survival, resilience, and finding purpose. When COVID hit his family in late 2020, Mark fell severely ill, resulting in him spending two months in an induced coma. He shares the raw reality of what it felt like to face death, the strange dreams and mental battles and how the moment a consultant offered hope became a literal "door opening" in his life. Mark's recovery meant learning everything again. How to walk, talk, eat, and rebuild his strength. Listen to this episode to be reminded about what really matters, and why sometimes, the only plan you need is to keep moving forward. Here are the highlights: 03:39 The transformative power of a second chance 07:08 Life and dreams inside a coma 09:16 Recovery: learning to walk, talk, and live again 14:31 Mindset shifts: why perspective matters 20:46 Reimagining change management: keeping it human 23:22 The moment of decision: owning the pathway ahead 44:39 Focus on loved ones, find balance, and enjoy life without getting caught up in external issues. The things that helped Mark navigate change: Music: "Foreplay/Long Time" by Boston One piece of advice: "Keep those nearest and dearest to you close. That's all that matters and all that's important. Try to have fun along the way, focus on what you can change, let go of the rest." About Mark Mark Green, CEO of Change Rebellion, where change management is taken back to its roots in order to support workplace transformations - founded on empa...

#151 The Art of Being Brave: Strength in Breaking, Power in Rising

May 8, 2025 47 min

"I think whenever you feel yourself being resistant, the challenge is to find acceptance. Because you have to accept something to shove that resistance out of the way. And once you've accepted it, you can move beyond it." In this episode, I'm speaking with Kreena Dhiman, a friend, and an incredible keynote speaker who leaves you feeling like you can achieve anything! Kreena shares her story of unexpected redundancy after a decade in a successful accounting career, and how that shock forced her to confront not only her professional identity but also lifelong struggles, setbacks, and cultural expectations. And the need to get out there and gare her story to inspire others. But this isn't just a tale about job loss, it's a deeply personal story of navigating serious illness, infertility, family challenges, and grief, all while steadily building a foundation for a brave future on her own terms. You will be nothing but charged to go out into the World, be bold and brave and rise after listening! Here are the highlights: 10:31 Resilience: life's journey and key moments 14:35 Survival, infertility, and finding acceptance 17:15 Where does "drive" come from? 21:42 Journey to self beyond expectations 30:48 Pursue your dreams; life's too short. 35:43 Building resilience through everyday acts The things that helped Kreena navigate change - Book: Brown Girl Like Me by Jaspreet Kaur Music: Brand New Me by Alicia Keys and Titanium by David Guette ft. Sia The one piece of advice: "Words, hold on, pain ends, and it spells out HOPE. There's always hope. Hold onto it. Because it will get better." About Kreena: Kreena is a keynote speaker about The Art of Being Brave. Adversity and failure are never our weakness, these are the experiences that lay the foundations from which we grow. Within each set back, lies the opportunity for resilience to rise, and it's resilience that allows us to survive and thrive in an ever changing world. Pain x Resistanc...

#150 Finding your voice and your value in times of change with David James

Apr 24, 2025 50 min

"It was a phenomenal time looking back, of anxiety at the beginning and disbelief that this was going to do anything for us, to finally being acquired at the end of 2021 in a life changing deal." In this episode, I speak to David James about the reality of walking away from a, on paper, dream corporate role in search of something else. David left the Walt Disney Company and joined the startup world, he shares the story of facing into the setbacks, the moments of wonderful serendipity, the moments of deep, dark doubt (my words, not David's!). We talk about the emotional highs and lows of career change, what it means to redefine success, and how sometimes, failure can lead to the most valuable opportunities. If you're navigating change or just curious about what happens when you take a leap, this one's for you. Here are the highlights: 03:17 The quiet build-up to letting go 07:45 Push vs pull: What drives us to change 09:38 Starting a business from scratch 12:21 Facing failure head-on 16:14 The free fall: Losing identity after leaving corporate 22:01 A serendipitous conversation that changed everything 29:19 Finding your voice and your value in something new 33:10 Learning to focus on the real problem 40:54 Adjusting after the business was acquired David's 'another door opens' go-to list - Book: Broken Open, How Difficult Times Can Help Us Grow by Elizabeth Lesser Music: Saint Cloud by Waxahachie The one piece of advice: "Own your own narrative." More about David: David James is the Chief Learning Officer at 360Learning and a highly respected voice in the Learning & Development industry. With a focus on harnessing technology to drive impactful learning strategies, David is recognised as one of the top 10 global influencers in the L&D space. His expertise lies in helping organisations modernise their approach to workplace learning, ensuring measurable results and business alignment. David is also the host of...

#149 Success isn't static: why we keep redefining what matters with Anna Lundberg

Apr 10, 2025 51 min

"What does success actually mean to me? Why did I quit my job really? How do I build this freedom, flexibility, fulfillment? How do I redefine it?" In this episode, I talk to Anna Lundberg, an executive coach, business mentor and strategic adviser who challenges us to think about success and what it means to us. Anna shares her career change from corporate marketing to creating a business with more freedom and fulfillment. We explore the evolution of success, exploring unexpected paths and random connections that shape our careers and personal growth, like finding me on ChatGPT! Here are the highlights: 03:50 The big door: Leaving corporate life and the journey since 05:06 Serendipitous lunch leading to new life paths 09:23 Embracing life changes and the idea of different life seasons 13:03 Shifting mindset from employee to entrepreneur 14:26 Moving into freelance consulting 26:25 Redefining personal career success and what truly matters 30:49 The ongoing journey - always a work in progress The things that helped Anna navigate change - Book: The Art of Non-conformity: Set Your Own Rules by Chris Guillebeau and "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield. Music: Defying Gravity from the musical Wicked The one piece of advice: " Take those little steps, don't put too much pressure on yourself to find the right answer, and just have a bit of faith that something good will come of it." More about Anna: Anna Lundberg is the founder of One Step Outside, where she helps professionals and entrepreneurs redefine success on their own terms. After stepping away from a successful corporate career, she built a business that gives her both financial stability and personal freedom - without following the traditional 'hustle' playbook. Through her Business Accelerator, strategic coaching, and thought leadership, she supports leaders in designing a business and career that aligns with their values, lifestyle, and ambitions. She is the author of...

#148 Getting comfortable with the unknown with Suzanne Penny

Mar 27, 2025 44 min

"Sometimes the doors closing are not just physical things. Sometimes it is about closing the way we do something, the way we think, so that we can step into a different space for ourselves." Have you ever felt the weight of certainty pull you down, trapping you in a life that doesn't truly fulfill you? In this episode I sit down with Suzanne Penny, a transition and career coach, who shares her own transformative journey of leaving behind certainty in favour of embracing the unknown. Suzanne shares key turning points in her life that could have easily anchored her in fear and loss, yet propelled her into a space of growth, curiosity, and empowerment. We talk about that change will inevitably mean we have to face being uncomfortable, before we find a more aligned pathway. Whether you're facing a career transition or just needing a shift in how you view your world, this episode offers inspiration and practical insights on how to embrace change. Here are the highlights: 04:03 Embrace uncertainty and get comfortable with the unknown 08:41 Losing job, becoming a single parent and launching a business 14:12 Taking breaks increases productivity and prevents burnout 17:33 Guided meditations can provide clarity and confidence 19:28 Embrace magic and openness 27:00 I wish I'd had business coaching earlier 30:58 Patience is a skill; with it, you win The things that helped Suzanne navigate change - Book/Magazine: Light is the New Black by Rebecca Campbell. Music: Inspiration by the Gypsy Kings The one piece of advice: "We absolutely have everything we need inside of us. We can make that positive change. If anyone's out there knowing they want to make change, you can. You totally can. And like I said, try not to just suffer alone with it. Get support around you. That's so key." More about Suzanne: Having started over following the death of her friend, Suzanne made some big decisions to start over. Which meant leaving her marriage of 15 years and wra...

#147 From law courts to catwalks: following your heart with Taiwo Meghoma

Mar 13, 2025 54 min

"I thought, if dressing people and making people look good makes them happy, then I would love to do this." Have you ever felt the weight of questioning your career path and wondered if there might be something else out there that's truly meant for you? In this episode, we take you on a journey with Taiwo Meghoma, a lawyer-turned-fashion-stylist. From a young boy in Nigeria discovering his love for fashion by helping his mother with her outfits, to sitting front row at major fashion weeks alongside his idols, Taiwo's story is about boldly opening new doors even when the world might tell you to stay put. We explore how a chance encounter and a passion for style led Taiwo to follow an unconventional path, ultimately leading to his success and fulfillment in the world of fashion. Here are the highlights: 05:03 As a child, loved making his mother happy by making her look good 14:38 Seeking connection and purpose 17:35 Pursued passion for fashion and styling, leaving corporate job without disclosing plans 24:13 Worked on and attended runway shows, met idols like Naomi Campbell 28:53 Trying is crucial; it matters more than the outcome 32:33 Conversation matters, leading to the way to work 51:07 Following your heart without fear The things that helped Taiwo navigate change - Book/Magazine: Ebony Magazine Music: "I Made It Through the Rain" - Barry Manilow. The one piece of advice: "Do it. You might have a lot of people who tell you you are making the wrong move, you are not going to do it, you're going to fail. I want your audience listening to this - to do it. Let them go ahead. If people tell you no, I want them to look at themselves in the mirror and say, you doubted me. Now I'm going to prove it to you. I'm going to do it." More about Taiwo: Taiwo is a fashion consultant and designer who has collaborated with fashion designers in Europe and Africa. As a stylist , he has dressed celebrities , corporate leaders all over the globe . In 2019,...

#146 How kindness shows up in moments of change with Graham Allcott

Mar 6, 2025 55 min

"When you have kindness in the culture, you build psychological safety. And from there you have high performing teams, better staff retention, creativity, resilience, like it really stacks up in terms of all the different benefits that you get by increasing levels of kindness and empathy in your business." Kindness can transform not just your personal well-being but also the landscape of work and leadership. In this episode, I reconnect with Graham Allcott, productivity expert, author, and now a passionate advocate for kindness in the workplace. We share the inspiration for his new book Kind, and how kindness is essential in moments of change. Kindness to yourself, and others. Graham shares his journey of closing doors, his evolution from productivity to kindness, and the impact kindness can have in our daily lives and careers. Here are the highlights: 05:55 Transitioned from managing a business to an MD 10:06 Ready to shift focus from productivity talk to new topics for personal interest 24:06 Experimentation encourages curiosity 35:44 Promote kindness to counter negative narratives 39:22 Curiosity about understanding inherently different personalities 52:37 Kindness begins with self-kindness The things that helped Graham navigate change - Book: "Wintering" by Katherine May Music: "Lovely Day" - Bill Withers The one piece of advice: "When you think about kindness, it's really important to be kind to yourself first. And once you start to be kind to yourself first, then you start to rewire your brain to make it easier for you to be kind to everybody else. So never think of self kindness as self indulgent. Always think of it as the thing that helps to role model for you and everybody around you an abundance mentality instead of a scarcity one." More about Graham Graham is the author of multiple books, including the global bestseller How to Be a Productivity Ninja. His latest book, KIND: The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work, focuses on why organ...

#145 Fusing engineering with creativity to unleash rebellious curiosity with Yemi Penn

Feb 27, 2025 56 min

"The biggest thing was I wanted to be more responsible as a thought leader. And in a world where we have so much information, misinformation, disinformation, it was important that I went through a process of acquiring knowledge and creating new knowledge and it was the PhD." Ready to lead a curiosity rebellion? We have the inspiring Yemi Penn as our guest. Yemi is a trailblazer who has navigated and embraced change across continents, careers, and personal transformations. From her early beginnings in engineering to becoming a documentary creator and author, Yemi has followed her curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit to explore new doors and opportunities. In our conversation, we explore her experiences living in Japan and Australia, the transition from a traditional career path to entrepreneurship, and the recent pursuit of a PhD about cultural trauma. Yemi shares provoking insights on handling identity shifts, following your calling, and embracing change with an open heart and mind. Here are the highlights: 04:27 Moved from Japan to the UK for engineering job 11:39 Change is non-linear, with moments of progress and retreat 20:03 Started a consultancy after realising the same rat race abroad 28:43 Life's changes often disrupt the path you are on 36:36 Taking action despite uncertainty is key 44:49 PhD documentary explored cultural trauma 46:13 Pursuing a PhD despite challenges 49:53 Applying for a fellowship and the Obama Leadership Foundation. The things that helped Yemi navigate change - Book: "Untethered Soul" by Michael Singer Music: "I Am Light." - Indie Arie The one piece of advice: "Get better at asking high quality questions. What am I afraid of? And answer really honestly. If you just do that you'll know what your next step is. Because a lot of us are seeking certainty, especially in these moments. But just ask what you're afraid of" More about Yemi Yemi is a speaker, researcher, author,engineer . Engineer by prof...

#144 How six words can tell your life story with Larry Smith

Feb 20, 2025 36 min

"We tell stories in times of transition because in good times, bad times, lateral movements, figurative movements, we need to make sense of the world. Stories help us help us process. This is what makes us human." Can six words help you process change, and tell your life story? On the podcast Larry Smith shares how a simple Twitter experiment 15 years ago turned into a global storytelling movement - the Six Word Memoir project. Our conversation is not just word count. Larry shares his closing door life moments, from divorce, to relocation, to career change. We discuss his unique 'three-part theory' of life balance, the importance of taking things one door at a time, and how sharing our stories creates meaningful connections. This is about embracing change on your own terms. Here are the highlights: 11:55 A Twitter project on six-word memoirs unexpectedly became a long-term career 13:54 Getting the courage to embrace a storytelling career 19:21 First project smithmag.net failed, but birthed the successful "six-word memoirs" idea 21:00 The importance of concise expression, inspired by six-word memoirs 23:46 Stories help us process the world during transitions and make us human More about Larry "A quest to spark creativity in everyone" quoted by Oprah Magazine, Larry Smith is the founder of The Six-Word Memoir® Project, a bestselling series of ten books, live event program, and a global phenomenon found in classrooms, conferences, and corporate settings alike. Larry has worked with teams on storytelling at Netflix, Twitter, Levi's, JPMorgan Chase, Dell, ESPN, and Google, as well as foundations, philanthropies, and schools. His writing has appeared in The New York Times, ESPN Magazine, Popular Science, Men's Journal, Slate, and Buzzfeed, and has contributed essays to anthologies including Modern Love: 50 True and Extraordinary Tales of Desire, Deceit, and Devotion. He's the editor of the book, The Moment: Wild, Poignant, Life-...

#143 - Finding the courage to keep pushing forward with Devon Harris

Feb 13, 2025 1 hr 0 min

"I grew up watching the Olympics and you see these athletes from around the world marching in the opening ceremonies. And then one day, you are setting foot in that stadium. 50,000 people screaming and you look to your right and you see more cameras than you can count. And in that moment that you are on TV around the world and some little kid is probably looking at you the way you looked at some other athlete." How do you find the courage to push forward when fear and uncertainty stand in your way? In this episode, I speak to Devon Harris, member of the legendary Jamaican bobsleigh team that inspired the film Cool Runnings. Devon shares his journey from growing up in Kingston's neighborhoods to becoming an army officer and eventually an Olympic athlete - despite being afraid of both speed and heights! Devon shows us how keeping focused on moving forward is often the only real choice we have. Here are the highlights: 04:51 Uncertain future after High School 09:06 Nervous summer running up to Army Selection 12:33 From Jamaica to Sandhurst Training 37:19 Dream-fulfilling moment of participating in the Olympics opening ceremony 43:40 Balancing soldier duties and Olympics 56:25 Persistence and selfishness misunderstood The things that helped Devon navigate change - Book: "Think and Grow Rich" - Napoleon Hill Music: "We Built This City" - Starship The one piece of advice: "Don't give up. You can't give up. I know how frustrating it can be, and how incredibly frustrating the journey can be and sometimes it feels like you're running out of time. But you're not running out of time. Keep pushing forward." More about Devon Devon Harris, born on Christmas Day 1964 in Kingston, Jamaica, transformed his life from a violent ghetto upbringing to become an Olympic bobsledder and inspirational figure. Overcoming adversity through determination, Devon graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and served as an officer in the Jamaica Defence Force. H...

#142: How to start again after selling your business with Aimee Bateman

Feb 6, 2025 48 min

"My new mission in life...is about helping women be seen, heard, and valued in their space, whether that's in work and beyond" In this episode, I talk with Aimee Bateman, an incredible entrepreneur and advocate for women in the workplace. Aimee shares her story of how experimenting helped her through a closing door after selling her business Careercake. She had spent 10 years building a successful company, then sold it, which was the plan all along. But after the sale, she faced a new challenge: What's next? She was also adjusting to life as a new parent, balancing her drive with the demands of motherhood. Rather than jump straight into her next big project, Aimee took a different approach: she gave herself a year to experiment. Aimee's "year of experiments" wasn't about perfect plans or guaranteed outcomes. It was about trying things out without pressure. She explored new ideas, met new people, and tested projects to see what resonated. Some ideas worked; others didn't. And that was okay. Aimee admits it wasn't always easy: "At points, my ego was on fire. What if I fail? What will people think? What if I need to change things?" But she learned to embrace the experimenting mindset. Looking back, she now sees her year of experiments as one of her most valuable experiences. It helped her figure out what truly excites her and what direction to take next. "It can feel unnerving to experiment. Like you have to get everything right the first time. But I've learned so much, and I know that 2025 is going to be a brilliantly focused year because of how clear I am now about what I want to do." Here are the highlights: 03:39 Helping women be seen, heard, and valued in all aspects of life. 08:57 Facing gender bias in the workplace. 11:47 Massive life changes after having a baby led to an identity crisis, and selling a company 17:45 Pursuit of success overshadowed happiness 20:23 Core values, especially kindness, are vital for personal transformation 33:34 T...

#141: After the music stops, life after the boyband with Lee Murray

Jan 30, 2025 47 min

"For me opening the door was the same door that had shut in my face previously. But going back there and thinking, well, what am I able to do? …I tried many things, but I realised it's music. So I sat down with a blank piece of paper and thought, I've got to make my way again." Imagine being at the height of music stardom in the 90s, performing on Top of the Pops, being helicoptered between gigs, and having fans waiting outside your house. Then suddenly, there is silence. In this episode Lee Murray shares what happens when the music stops. Lee was the drummer in the band Let Loose, which enjoyed headline and chart success in the 90s. And then, due to various moving doors, and sliding doors moments the record contracted ended. Lee shares the moment he got the letter, sitting on his stairs thinking now what do I do? It wasn't an easy few years, navigating what to do next, trying things that didn't work out. But eventually returning to his roots and the love that was there all the time, drumming. Lee set up his own drum school Lee Murray Drum Hub, and now specialises in using lessons to help people with their mental health and to help neurodivergent children in particular. Here are the highlights: 03:37 As a kid, I was obsessed with music, I dreamt of a music career. 07:48 Non-stop touring and performances for eight years. 21:02 Try new things without fear; be in the right mental space to succeed. 24:16 Drumming, which offered direction and mental wellness benefits. 38:20 Childhood dreams of being a pop star drove adult ambition. The things that helped Lee navigate change. Music: "Are Friends Electric" by Gary Numan Boos: 'The Secret' by Rhonda Byrne The one piece of advice: "You'll have real highs and you will have the lows. It's about trying to equip yourself with the tools to ride through that. So you can experience the highs and enjoy them knowing that it may not last forever, and you will get times where it's going to dip. Equip yourself with...

#140: Do the maths and then change your life with Dr. Claire Handby

Jan 23, 2025 38 min

"It's okay when you fundamentally change your perspective, and it makes different anchors in your life to what you had up to a certain moment of a door closing. I think the door closing on me was about not wanting to be an employed person anymore and wrestling with it." Ever felt the whisper of your dreams urging you to make a change but hesitated because of the safety net of a steady job? In this insightful episode, I sit down with Dr. Claire Handby as she shares her transition from a 25-year corporate career to embracing entrepreneurship. Of course, there is a lot to be said about just going for it, making the leap, feeling the fear, but there are also some realities that come with change. This conversation is about following a dream, but how you can do it without it feeling like a risk. This conversation will resonate with anyone feeling trapped by the familiar who is yearning for the freedom to craft their own path. We explore the importance of diverse perspectives, emotional connections, doing the Maths and the courage required to step finally through the door to the life you desire. Here are the highlights: 05:33 Pandemic restrictions inspire Claire to want the freedom that came with entrepreneurship. 09:28 Adjusting post-lockdown: trying to balance work, wellness, and resilience. 12:55 Pursue self-employment for autonomy and impact. 17:03 Change alters perspective; involvement obscures perception. 20:03 Nature boosts creativity and productivity. 21:35 Left a 25-year corporate career to start a business, motivated by a podcast. 26:00 Job security is uncertain; have savings and plan finances accordingly. 34:15 Do the maths to change your life. The things that helped Claire navigate change. Music: 'This is Me' from The Greatest Showman Books: 'Never Give Up' by Bear Grylls; 'Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway' by Susan Jeffers The one piece of advice: "Do the maths. What do you need monthly to have a really nice life? And then both your subconsciou...

#139: When it's time to explore the other side of fear and chase a dream with Ant Duckworth

Jan 16, 2025 45 min

"I made the decision to jump off that entrepreneurial ledge, which was incredibly intimidating at the time… But, I was so compelled to see what was on the other side of fear, which was leaving full time, gainful, fantastic employment and chase a dream" In today's episode, we have Ant Duckworth, the co-founder of Dear Coco. I've been following Ant's journey and the evolution of 'Dear Coco', his award winning coffee truck, since the dream started. We all have these tiny ideas, small dreams, but how many of us decide to take action and step into trying, and giving it a go. Ant shares the moment he decided to go for it, and how he now navigates each step to be very intentional with where his business goes. He shares the importance of setting rules and guiding values for yourself - he has his Five Codes he lives by. The first rule being 'owning the dark' - the concept of acknowledging the most defining, meaningful work happens in the dark away from the spotlight when no one is watching. Ant has made that corporate to entrepreneur leap, from director at American Express to owner of a coffee truck in a side street in London. Dear Coco is growing, and continues to make its mark in the competitive coffee market. It's a story to encourage you to take tiny steps to action your small flickering flame of an idea, and when the moment is right, back yourself to make it happen. Here are the highlights: 06:05 Launched renowned coffee truck as side hustle. 10:19 From surfing to serving London's best coffee from a truck. 20:43 Coffee truck work: it's hard, challenging but extremely rewarding. 31:10 Maximize life through personal code and improvement. 36:06 Relatability attracts non-coffee followers online. 43:48 Confront fears; make the jump despite resistance. The things that helped Ant navigate change. Music: Jack Johnson The one piece of advice: "There is something great and powerful sitting on the other side of fear. Maybe fear is stopping you from reaching out a...

#138: From redundancy to championing flexible work with Elizabeth Willetts

Jan 9, 2025 34 min

"My big door closing moment was when I was made redundant in the pandemic with 2 small children who were 1 and 3, and thought I would never get a good job again." Turing adversity into opportunity. In today's episode I'm talking to Elizabeth Willetts, founder of Investing in Women. Elizabeth's company grows from strength to strength, if you follow her on socials she is smashing it. But that wasn't always the case - and, like many success stories, starts when a door is slammed shut. Like many of us, Elizabeth found herself redundant during Covid in 2020 and decided it was a moment to channel her inspirational grandmother's entrepreneurial spirit and start her own business. Elizabeth shares her navigation of overcoming challenges, from grappling with imposter syndrome to tackling the technical hurdles of starting a business. With insights from nearly 20 years in recruitment, Elizabeth also discusses her forthcoming book "Flex," aiming to help others achieve career success on their terms. "The journey from redundancy to creating my own business wasn't straightforward, but recognising my unique experience in recruitment became a vital pivot point. This inspired me to launch 'Investing in Women', and my upcoming book, 'Flex', shares exactly how you can have career success on your own terms." Here are the highlights: 04:34 Realisation of redundancy took several months 06:49 Wanted part-time job; started home business instead 11:49 Talked to mum about previous self-employment 21:30 Experiencing impostor syndrome 32:26 Redundancy often leads to positive outcomes Elizabeth's Another Door go-tos The things that helped Elizabeth navigate change. Book: Atomic Habits, by James Clear Music: Fighter, by Christina Aguilera The one piece of advice: "As one door closes, another one definitely, definitely opens. It's about going for things, being curious, and not being afraid because I think life's too short to be afraid." More about Elizabeth: Elizabeth star...

#137: Embracing the messiness of change

Dec 12, 2024 10 min

In this special solo episode, it's just you and me pondering the intricacies of navigating change. The past few years I've had my fair share of ups and downs, and so in this chat I'm sharing my reflections on pausing, embracing messiness, playing with ideas, and the power of trying. We'll also explore the concept of restarting with a fresh perspective, anchored in self-care and gentle intention. Join me as I explore these themes, offering insights and tools to help you face uncertainty and thrive through change. This framework is part of my upcoming book, all about how to navigate change. Let's roll up our sleeves and embrace the messiness of change together. "The answer is never in the panic. The answer is always from a really slowed down intentional space, when you know exactly what you want and you've figured out how you're going to get it." If you are rethinking work and want a space to explore what happens next check out rethinkers.space. About your host Eleanor Tweddell: Eleanor supports individuals, teams and organisations through change. Whether it's 121 coaching or large scale organisational change through communications and training. Eleanor's work centres around how we, as humans, work through change, embracing the messy bits, the role of playing, with the aim to see opportunity. "Too often we get stuck in the change happening to us, when just through that next door is an exciting next chapter." Eleanor is the founder of Another Door and the author of Why losing your job could be the best thing that ever happened to you. Connect with Eleanor: Instagram:instagram/anotherdooruk LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/eleanor-tweddell/ Website: eleanortweddell.com Produced by winteraudio.co.uk

#136: How to keep being 'directionally correct' when life throws a curve ball with Michael Glassock

Nov 28, 2024 32 min

"Career transitions may feel uncertain, but aligning your daily actions with your core values can guide you through any ambiguity. It's not about having every step mapped out; it's about being directionally correct and consistent in your efforts." This episode I'm with Micheal Glassocks who shares his career shifts, aligning work with personal values and the power of being "directionally correct". Michael discusses his transitions from a successful role in project management in the NHS to project managing a new career as a coach, prompted by his father's Alzheimer's diagnosis. We discuss how people around you react when you are changing, how there are often a few wrong moves in change before the 'right' one and how having one goal can help focus you - Michael shares his goal of 'coach every day until 80'. His story is filled with valuable insights and lessons for anyone considering a career change or looking for more alignment in their professional lives. "The reason why I'm very good at switching into a growth mindset, is because of the practice and the past experiences of it I've had. The way I've built confidence in most of the things I've done is by doing them." Here are the highlights: 03:25 Career transition after personal and professional realizations. 07:01 Experiencing disconnect between career progress and enjoyment. 10:49 Confidence grows with directionally correct actions. 19:10 Growth mindset through practice and past experiences. 20:56 Emotions are data; use them for decisions. 26:07 Practical exercise: envision your ideal gravestone message. Michael's Another Door go-tos The things that helped Michael navigate change. Book: "Start With Why" by Simon Sinek Music: "Iron Lion Zion" by Bob Marley The One Piece of Advice: "Look at anybody who's deemed in a societal sense as successful, they've been consistent in the actions they've taken and they've always been curious. They're always learning, not just more about themselves, but...

#135: How to Divorce Sober with Hannah Harvey

Nov 21, 2024 38 min

"I have learned so much over this process of what matters and what doesn't, how to protect yourself, what boundaries to put in place, whether you're giving up alcohol, a person, or an eating disorder." In this episode, I talk to Hannah Harvey who shares her story about closing a door on alcohol, which also led to her leaving her marriage. Hannah opened up about her liberating journey to sobriety, revealing how quitting alcohol transformed her life and led her to write "How to Divorce Sober." We talk about overcoming societal pressures, personal growth, and finding clarity through challenging transitions. Hannah shares how she turned life's obstacles into opportunities and her inspiring vision for helping others do the same. Here are the highlights: 00:59 Hannah's book explores divorce and personal recovery. 04:48 Struggling with drinking, self-esteem, male-dominated industry. 11:35 Life change affected blogging identity and direction. 16:36 Discovering new reality through immersive book reading. 19:02 Sudden clarity led to quitting drinking. 23:27 Putting out metaphorical fires; learning boundaries. 27:10 Fear and curiosity deter exploration of the unknown. 30:17 Unwanted change led to personal growth unexpectedly. 31:38 Writing the book on divorce journey. 36:37 Challenges reveal healing opportunities for personal growth. Hannah's Another Door go-tos The things that helped Hannah navigate change. Book: "Control Alcohol" by Annie Grace Music: "I Feel Free" by Cream The One Piece of Advice: "I think when you choose or you're pulled through a door, you can almost certainly expect that whatever needs to be healed is going to show itself. So often you'll go through something and you're like, right, I'm on my new path, this is exciting. And then, something will happen. And you're like, are you actually kidding? But almost certainly that is happening for a reason because that is going to heal something within you that will then take you further o...

#134 The moment that you are ready to hear it, the answer will come to you

Nov 14, 2024 49 min

"The whole time I could have left but I just wanted to believe so much that it was the right thing for me." What happens when you don't get joy from your job anymore? I'm talking to Claire Fitzsimmons, co-founder of 'If lost start here'. She shares her journey of closing a door on what was perceived as a 'dream job' in the art world and following her heart into the well-being world. We also talk about her Mum's struggle with mental health and how it led Claire to starting a business where they create a unique "well-being prescription" designed to navigate life with creativity and joy. She also opens up about her struggles fitting into traditional roles and redefining what is important. Her story offers us invaluable lessons on embracing change and finding fulfilment. "I just love the feeling of walking through a gallery and then being around the art and I still love that. I think that's why it was so hard to let go of because it felt really good, but what I hadn't understood was what my role in it would be, and who I had to be in that environment." Here are the highlights: 05:41 The struggle of leaving a beloved art world job 12:12 Monetising passions can diminish the joy 13:39 Prioritising personal curiosity over external expectations 17:57 Exploring my mother's story to understand my own 23:53 Navigating external advice vs. internal connection 27:54 Creative spaces make therapy accessible and engaging 34:42 Different needs: nature connection, and a spiritual practice 37:09 Create your own life guide with support Claire Fitzwilliam's Another Door go-tos The things that helped Claire navigate change. Book: "Tiny Beautiful Things", by Cheryl Strayed Music: "My Favourite Coffee House" playlist on Spotify The one piece of advice: "Feel your way through change and I say that because I often do work around emotions with people and it's often the missing piece." About Claire Fitzsimmons: Claire Fitzsimmons helps people to have more good days by de...

#133 Closing a door when you feel something bigger is calling with Dr. Enya Doyle

Oct 17, 2024 43 min

"If it's consulting for forever, then it's consulting for forever. But at least be the captain of your own ship and being curious about what it would be like to be the captain of my own ship." I am talking to Dr. Enya Doyle, known as the 'Harassment Doctor'. Enya's closing door was the moment she decided to leave academia and start her own consultancy. Enya shares her career journey, starting from her academic roots in gender and classical music to becoming a leading consultant in anti-harassment and inclusion. The conversation is about seeing opportunity when it feels like there isn't, see something that needs addressed and decide to do something about it. I found it empowering to listen to her motivations and drive. Enya talks about the 'Finding yourself' moment - after spending so long living in the identity of 'being smart' to deciding to do 'smart' differently, bringing with her all that curiosity and love for learning into her next door opening. Enya discusses the pivotal moments that shaped her path, from completing her PhD and confronting the challenges of the COVID-19 lockdowns to navigating personal health struggles and eventually establishing her own consultancy. Her story is a testament to the power of curiosity, adaptability, and the importance of doing "the next right thing." And an impressive reference to Disney films the whole way through our chat! "Focus on doing the next right thing for yourself, rather than being overly concerned with long-term plans or others' expectations." Here are the highlights: 04:54 Academia fosters curiosity and lifelong learning. 11:14 Grew up during the Northern Ireland conflict. 15:58 Surround yourself with supportive, like-minded people who uplift you. 21:28 Assume the best; people have diverse perspectives. 24:14 Arts organisations must protect freelancers and contractors. 29:17 NHS is thorough; many people often misunderstood. 31:03 Embracing self-employment; flexible, and fulfilling work journey...

#132 From tech giant to embracing entrepreneurship with Glenn Block

Oct 3, 2024 1 hr 2 min

"What if I could author my life the way I want it to be? What would that look like? And the more I started to think about that it was, you know, not working for anybody. It was creating my own spaces, creating my own company where I get to do the things I really care about, and where I can structure it" Join me talking to Glenn Block, whose journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship is packed with valuable lessons and insights, and stories of how getting it wrong on the first go can turn out to be OK! Glenn shares the moment he decided to close a door on working in 'big tech' and launch not one but two of his own businesses. We discuss the magic of having unfiltered conversations with people when you first have an idea, our love of books and the importance of watching out for your mental health during life changes. "Leaving corporate politics felt like closing the door on a toxic relationship; it was a necessary step towards reclaiming my mental health and professional integrity." Here are the highlights: 06:47 MBA led to realisation: Leave the corporate for new opportunities. 20:39 Enjoying flexibility and fulfillment outside corporate environment. 22:30 Launched business in 2023; in a struggling economy. 30:01 ADHD's hyperfocus can lead to extreme productivity. 33:10 Learned more being self-employed than in a corporate job. 42:07 Seeking music to inspire hope during change. 51:57 Runway provides security and focus for success. Glenn's Another Door go-tos The things that helped Glenn navigate change. Book: "Leadership and Self Deception" by The Arbinger Institute Music: "My Life" by Billy Joel The one piece of advice: "Planning is crucial. Having a financial runway, for me it was a year-long plan, gave me the stability I needed to make the leap from corporate life to self-employment with confidence." About Glenn Block Glenn is a product and innovation leader with almost 30 years of experience in the tech industry. Throughout his c...

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#181: Life after exit and becoming the work happiness geek with Richard Clarke

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Created by: Eleanor Tweddell
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 12, 2026
Episodes: 182
Release period: Every two weeks
Avg. episode length: 42 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

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