Explore every episode of the podcast Access to Inspiration

(00:00:00) 151. Mike Foreman: From Navy Pilot to NASA Astronaut
(00:00:12) Meet Mike Foreman
(00:02:53) Navy Pilot to NASA
(00:03:38) Three Applications Later
(00:06:35) Life in NASA
(00:08:25) How Astronauts Train
(00:10:46) First Spacewalk Nerves
(00:11:32) Earth View Effect
(00:12:22) Spacesuit Fit Scare
(00:15:52) Spacewalk Work and Fatigue
(00:18:03) Returning to Gravity
(00:21:13) Life After Space
(00:22:06) Fame and Being Ordinary
(00:23:49) How Many Astronauts
(00:24:55) Mars and Artemis Future
(00:26:44) Why Explore Mars
(00:29:57) Closing Stories and Goodbye

What does it take to leave Earth behind and step into space?

Sue Stockdale speaks with former NASA astronaut Mike Foreman, whose remarkable career took him from flying helicopters in the U.S. Navy to completing two Space Shuttle missions and multiple spacewalks aboard the International Space Station.

Mike shares the persistence required to become an astronaut after eight applications to NASA, the realities of astronaut training, and the physical and mental demands of working in space. He reflects on his first spacewalk, the awe-inspiring view of Earth from orbit, and the challenges of returning to gravity after living beyond our planet.

The conversation also explores the future of human space exploration, including the Artemis programme and the possibility of missions to Mars, as well as Mike's thoughts on why exploration continues to matter.

In this episode:

• Mike's journey from Navy pilot to NASA astronaut
• The astronaut selection process and lessons in persistence
• Training for life and work in space
• The experience of conducting spacewalks
• Viewing Earth from orbit
• Life after NASA
• The future of lunar and Mars exploration

Whether you're fascinated by space, leadership, resilience, or human potential, Mike's story offers a compelling insight into what can be achieved through determination, curiosity and a willingness to venture into the unknown.

About Mike Foreman

Mike Foreman is a former NASA astronaut, retired U.S. Navy Captain, and aerospace engineer whose career has taken him from the cockpit of military aircraft and into space. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Naval Postgraduate School, and U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, he accumulated more than 7,500 flight hours across over 50 different aircraft types.

Selected as a NASA astronaut in 1998, Mike spent more than 637 hours in space during two Space Shuttle missions, STS-123 and STS-129. He completed five spacewalks, totalling over 32 hours, helping to construct and maintain the International Space Station.

Today, he shares lessons from his extraordinary experiences as a speaker and serves as the Mayor of Friendswood, Texas.

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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

This episode includes AI-generated content.

In this special bonus episode, Pierre Heistein, who was guest in episode 91 takes the host's chair alongside co-founders Sue Stockdale and Clive Steeper. They celebrate reaching 150 episodes by reflecting on the conversations with guests, lessons learned, and the common threads that bind these stories together. Pierre delves into the origins of the podcast, what does it mean to be inspirational,  and how the show has impacted Sue and Clive and their listeners.  Together they discuss how the podcast has influenced their perspectives about life and work, and how they look to the future for taking the next steps of development.

Key Reflections

• "The most inspirational people often have an overriding purpose – something greater than themselves that motivates them to act."
• “Inspiration is about more than success or achievement. It's about attitude – a willingness to explore, to take risks, and to stay curious.”
• “Many of our guests had to embrace uncertainty or ambiguity at some point in their journey."
• “Being an inspiration to others was often something guests had not considered about themselves.”
• “The podcast is designed to challenge assumptions – by hearing from people outside your own world, you begin to understand different ways of thinking.”
• “What guests often valued most about the interview was the opportunity to reflect on their life and what shaped them.”
• “Each episode is a window into someone’s world, and those windows have revealed the many forms that inspiration can take.”
• “These conversations continue to affirm one thing – that every person has a story worth hearing.”

Time Stamps
01:26 Origins of the Podcast
03:41 Defining inspiration
06:06 Personal reflections on inspiration
12:36 The role of curiosity and vulnerability
23:31 Unexpectedly inspiring guests
27:17 The journey of resilience and tenacity
29:45 The power of ordinary acts
32:21 Impactful stories from the podcast
36:17 The Atuel river journey
42:14 Reflections on longevity and success
47:54 The future of the podcast 


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Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In this landmark 150th episode, Sue Stockdale talks to Kris Tompkins, one of the world's most prolific conservation philanthropists.  Kris shares a powerful, personal perspective on what drives her and urges listeners to ditch the myth of individual powerlessness: “The excuse that ‘I’m just one person’ - that’s the weakest, nonsensical excuse there is. One person, it does matter.”

In the conversation, Tompkins reflects on how her business experience helped shape a vision for nature conservation at scale, highlighting themes of risk-taking, leadership, and the power of direct engagement. She reminds us that the gritty, uncomfortable days in nature often leave the strongest impressions: “I like people being miserable in the national parks - those are the days we remember.”


About Kris Tompkins

Kris Tompkins is the president and co-founder of Tompkins Conservation, and former CEO of Patagonia, Inc. For three decades, she has committed to protecting and restoring wild beauty and biodiversity by creating national parks, inspiring activism, and fostering economic vitality as a result of conservation. Kris and her husband, Doug Tompkins have protected over 15 million acres of parklands in Chile and Argentina through Tompkins Conservation and its partners, making them among the most successful national park oriented philanthropists in history.

Kris served as Patron for Protected Areas for the UN Environmental Programme from 2018 to 2022. The recipient of numerous honours, she was the first conservationist to be awarded the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy. Her 2020 TED talk "Lets make the earth wild again" has over two million views.  

Find out more about Kris Tompkins and the work of Tompkins Conservation : Rewilding Argentina : Rewilding Chile :Trailer for National Geographic documentary - Wild Life 

Time Stamps

01:57 Developing a passion for nature 
04:29 Challenges and Triumphs in Conservation
11:25 Building Teams and Collaborative Efforts
27:34 The Role of Technology in Conservation
31:22 Reflecting on Successes and Lessons Learned
34:24 Inspiration and Call to Action

Key Quotes

•  I'm actually inspired and motivated probably more by grief and a kind of yearning, than I am by something that's fabulous and positive.
•  You can't fall in love with something you don't know.
•  I like people being miserable in the national parks as those are the days we remember- the days you were freezing.
• The excuse that “I’m just one person”. That's the weakest, nonsensical excuse there is. One person, it does matter.
• People have to decide that they want to participate in something more than what they currently have in their daily life. They see what's going on in the outside world and they want to do something. And that's a decision. And that's probably the most difficult step of all.
•  There are people working for nature who need what you're good at. It's the wilfulness that people get stuck on. 

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale talks to Alice Morrison, an adventurer, author, and TV presenter. Alice has journeyed across deserts, trekked through mountains, and immersed herself in diverse cultures from Morocco to Saudi Arabia. Alice shares her experiences of resilience, discovery, and connection, including surviving the Moroccan earthquake, navigating Saudi Arabia on foot, and the joy of storytelling. Alice discusses her passion for adventure, the importance of cultural understanding, and why she believes exploration is about more than just physical endurance.

About Alice Morrison
Alice Morrison is an adventurer, TV presenter, and writer known for her bold expeditions and compelling storytelling. From racing her bike across Africa in the Tour d’Afrique to running the Everest Trail Race and walking thousands of kilometres across Morocco, she has consistently chosen the path less travelled. Her adventures are driven by a desire to understand our rapidly changing world, celebrate shared humanity, and bear witness to environmental and cultural transformation.

Her work is now showcased in documentaries such as From Morocco to Timbuktu, and Arabian Adventures: Secrets of the Nabataeans, alongside her acclaimed books Dodging Elephants, Walking with Nomads, and Adventures in Morocco.  Now based in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Alice lives immersed in the landscapes she writes about, walking alongside Amazigh guides and camels, podcasting from remote deserts, and sharing insights through public speaking and media appearances.

Connect with Alice Morrison - Website: Instagram : Podcast : YouTube : TikTok

Key Quotes

• "Adventure isn’t about searching for yourself; it’s about experiencing as much of the world as possible."
• "I treasure my freedom, and I’m grateful every day that I have the opportunity to explore, to learn, and to share stories with others."
• "The reality of Saudi Arabia was so different from the stereotype—I found warmth, humour, and incredible hospitality at every step."
• "People are fundamentally good everywhere in the world. The more we meet and understand each other, the more barriers we break down."

Time Stamps
01:28 Experiencing Ramadan in Morocco
02:56 Challenges of Adventuring in Saudi Arabia
06:55 Alice's Background and Attraction to the Middle East
09:09 The Importance of Storytelling
10:44 Surviving the Moroccan Earthquake
12:53 Themes of Freedom and Self-Reliance
15:09 Community vs. Individuality
21:06 Packing Tips for Explorers
24:41 Lessons from Nature and Camels
26:08 Future Adventures and Goals


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Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale speaks to adventurer, author, and deep thinker Ed Ley-Wilson. Ed shares insights from his life exploring both the outdoors and the mind. From kayaking the rugged west coast of Scotland to reflecting on resilience, solitude, and the power of slowing down, Ed reveals how adventure - whether on land, sea, or within ourselves shapes our engagement with the world. 

About Ed Ley-Wilson
Ed has over thirty years of working and engaging with business, community, educational, social and environmental issues throughout the Highlands of Scotland. He has undertaken long self-supported kayaking journeys in Norway and Patagonia and has run 1200 miles of the Great Wall of China (1988) and the 2000 mile length of the Himalayas (1990). Ed is no stranger to hardship and during his 2022 kayaking journey up the west coast of Scotland he faced some of the worst weather in that region for years. He also has two books to his name, ‘The Himalayan Shuffle’ and ‘Kayaking the Sea Roads.

Key Quotes

• "Adventure isn’t just about the physical challenge; it’s about how we engage with the world around us and what we learn from it."
• "Solitude teaches you resilience in a way nothing else can - you have to sit with your thoughts and find your own way through them."
• "Whether on the sea or in life, you can’t always control what happens, but you can control how you respond to it."
• "The lessons I learned from John Ridgway weren’t just about survival; they were about self-reliance, discipline, and understanding your own limits."
• "Slowing down and disconnecting from the noise of the modern world is one of the greatest gifts adventure can offer."
• "It's not a weakness to not know stuff. It's a strength actually".

Chapters
01:57 Early Adventures and Influences
03:33 Lessons from the Wild
04:31 The Philosophy of Adventure
05:42 Kayaking the Sea Roads
10:07 Reflections on Highland Communities
16:27 The Importance of Time and Space
21:30 Embracing Uncertainty and Curiosity
23:06 The Role of Yoga in Kayaking
25:54 The Journey of Self-Discovery
35:39 Balancing Life and Future Plans

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Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale welcomes Zara Lachlan, who shares her extraordinary experience of rowing solo across the Atlantic from mainland Europe to South America, covering over 3,500 nautical miles in 97 days. Despite overcoming many challenges as well as mental and physical hurdles during her voyage, Zara highlights the importance of resilience, self-belief, and the power of support from loved ones.

About Zara Lachlan
Zara Lachlan is a 21-year-old physics student at Loughborough University who is joining the army in September 2025 as a technical officer. She has competed internationally in cycling and rowing which she started at 16 at Welbeck, the Army’s 6th Form College. Zara heard about ocean rowing when she was much younger but only decided to take on this challenge last summer, and the first time she ever saw an ocean rowing boat was in August.Two and a half months of intensive training later, she was fully prepared to row across the Atlantic solo.

Zara faced extreme weather leading to a capsize, orcas and sharks, and a near miss with a large ship, yet still describes her expedition as the most enjoyable and rewarding experience she has come across so far. Zara set out to encourage others to find a fun way to keep fit and healthy and gain the confidence needed to try something new. None of her crossing would have been possible without the support she got from the charity Team Forces and all her sponsors.

Connect with Zara Lachlan via Instagram 

Key Quotes

• "I didn’t have a big reason to row across an ocean, I just thought it would be fun."
• "Some days, I rowed for 21 hours, and it still wasn’t enough. That was a hard lesson in learning to accept what’s out of my control."
• "For almost 60 days, I had no music, no distractions, just the ocean, the wildlife, and my own thoughts."
• "The hardest part wasn’t the physical challenge. It was waking up every day knowing I had 3,000 miles left to go."
• "Nine times out of ten, you’re stronger than you think you are. The only way to find out is to go for it."

Time Stamps
(02:42) The Impulse to Row Across the Atlantic
(04:28) Competitive Spirit and Family Influence
(06:42) Preparing for the Atlantic Row
(09:37) Life on the Ocean
(13:56) Encounters with Marine Life
(19:59) Mental and Physical Resilience
(23:09) Returning to Land and Future Plans


Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale talks to Rosemary Hoskins, a learning and development expert, about navigating uncertainty in careers, personal growth, and leadership. Rosemary shares her journey from graduating during a recession to building a diverse career and offers insights on the importance of critical thinking, adaptability, and peer learning. The conversation emphasizes the value of evaluating risks, asking 'what if' questions, and creating plans to manage the unknown. Rosemary also talks about her unique personal experiences, including bringing a polo pony from Argentina and building her own ecohouse illustrating the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone to explore opportunities.

About Rosemary Hoskins
Rosemary Hoskins has built her career in people development around designing and leading strategic change to enhance organisational capability and to change the way that people work. Most recently serving as Global Capability Lead at AstraZeneca, she has previously worked in learning and development roles at Barclays, Citi, BP, UKTI, and PA Consulting.  Her first career was as an independent environmental consultant.  She likes to learn things mainly through doing them, supported by sharing ideas with others and just the right amount of relevant content.  

Connect with Rosemary Hoskins on LinkedIn

Time Stamps
01:57 Rosemary's Early Career Challenges
04:04 Skills for Thriving in Uncertainty
05:34 The Role of AI in Critical Thinking
06:57 Working in the Grey
08:37 Learning and Development Strategies
09:55 Personal Stories and Career Reflections
10:42 The Polo Pony Adventure
17:33 Leadership and Peer Support
20:04 Future Outlook and Final Thoughts

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale interviews Anil Damle, a passionate nature and wildlife enthusiast from India, about his epic road trips across the continents of Africa, Latin America, and Australia. Anil shares his experiences of overcoming logistical challenges, the importance of teamwork, and the unexpected kindness of strangers. They delve into his journey's practicalities, including vehicle maintenance and adapting to different terrains and the personal growth that comes from embarking on such ambitious travels.

About Anil Damle
Anil Damle is a renowned film producer, author, and tourism pioneer. He comes from a distinguished lineage in filmmaking, being the grandson of the founder partner of Prabhat Film Co. now home to the prestigious Film & Television Institute of India. As a passionate adventurer, Anil holds three India Book of Records for being part of the first Indian teams to drive across Africa (2016), Latin America (2017), and Australia (2019). His career in tourism took off in 1993 when he founded Damle Safaris, specialising in wildlife tours, African safaris, and polar voyages. Anil is also a prolific author, having written 10 books on tourism, three of which have won the title of ‘Best Book of Tourism.’ 

Find out more about Anil Damle via website and YouTube

Time Stamps
01:15 Anil's Early Travel Inspirations
02:44 Epic Road Trips Across Africa
06:29 Challenges and Triumphs in South America
08:37 Navigating Language Barriers and Local Support
16:52 High Altitude Adventures in the Atacama Desert
19:50 Reflections on Resilience and Teamwork
31:08 Memorable Moments and Future Plans
37:09 Exploring India and Upcoming Adventures


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Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale interviews Jayshree Seth, who was appointed 3M’s first ever Chief Science Advocate in 2018 and is using her scientific knowledge, technical expertise and professional experience to advance science, communicate its benefits and the importance of STEM fields to drive innovation.
 
About Jayshree Seth
Jayshree Seth is a Corporate Scientist at 3M and currently holds 80 patents for a variety of innovations, with several additional pending. She joined 3M in 1993 after an MS and PhD in Chemical Engineering from Clarkson University, New York. She is a Distinguished Alumni Award recipient from her alma mater REC Trichy India, now NIIT Trichy, where she earned a B. Tech. in Chemical Engineering. She is also a member of Carlton Society which is the 3M Science and Innovation “Hall of Fame.” Jayshree is the fourth woman and first female engineer to be inducted. In 2025 she was named to the prestigious Thinkers50 Radar list featuring people those whose ideas will help shape the future of organisations and leadership. 

Connect with Jayshree Seth via LinkedIn

Time Stamps
01:05 Jayshree's Early Life and STEM Journey
03:20 The Power of Curiosity
04:51 Becoming a Chief Science Advocate
05:18 Understanding Public Perception of Science
09:00 Mosaic Building: Jayshree's Problem-Solving Approach
13:02 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Innovation
22:34 The Role of AI in Innovation
25:00 Jayshree's Inspirations and Legacy 

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale interviews trailblazing conservationist Astrid Vargas in episode 143 of the Access to Inspiration podcast. Astrid shares her journey from childhood fascination with nature to leading efforts in bringing species like the Iberian lynx back from the brink of extinction. They discuss the importance of inspiration, systemic thinking, and community engagement in conservation, and delve into the 'four returns' model for landscape restoration developed by Common Land. Astrid emphasises the role of art, celebration, and collective action in fostering a sustainable future, offering insights and encouragement for anyone looking to make a positive impact on the planet.

About Astrid Vargas
Astrid Vargas is an award-winning conservation biologist with a track record in setting up, developing, leading, and monitoring environmental restoration programs. She has been a key figure in the recovery of three of the world’s most endangered species: the Iberian lynx in Spain, the black-footed ferret in North America, and the golden-crowned sifaka in Madagascar. Astrid believes in the power of art and inspiration to transform society. She is the founder of Inspiration 4 Action, an initiative that inspires communities to bring collective creativity into ecosystem restoration.

Find out more about Astrid Vargas and Inspiration 4 Action  via website: her book website : Instagram : Facebook

Time Stamps
01:22 Astrid's Early Inspirations and Influences
04:50 The Journey into Conservation Biology
06:42 The Iberian Lynx Recovery Program
11:35 The Four Returns Model for Landscape Restoration
21:44 Art, Celebration, and Community Engagement
29:26 Advice for Young Conservationists
31:14 The Joy of Conservation and Final Thoughts

Key Quotes

•  What if saving the planet could be joyful, creative and inspiring?
• There's a big need in endangered species programs to resolve conflict and to listen to each other and to find ways where we can all move forward together.
•  It's our own activity that's causing the demise of so many species.
• The beauty of nature makes me want to act. It gives me the amazing love to try to to do whatever we can so we don't lose it.
• We need a different thinking than the thinking that caused this problem.
• Our mind has to move to a restoration, regeneration thinking.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale  Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale interviews Ricky Ellcock, a man who defied significant challenges to excel in two remarkable careers: professional cricket and aviation. Raised in impoverished conditions in Barbados, Ricky's journey saw him overcoming racial and socio-economic barriers. His ingenuity as a child, along with his resilience in facing career-ending injuries, led him to become Virgin Atlantic's first Black 747 captain. Ricky shares his experiences of culture shock at an elite English boarding school, fighting through debilitating injuries, battling depression, and ultimately redefining success. His story is one of humour, humility, and relentless determination to achieve one's dreams, and serves as a powerful inspiration for aiming high despite the odds.

About Ricky Ellcock
Captain Ricky Ellcock was born in 1965 in Redman’s Village, St Thomas, Barbados. He attended Combermere School, Barbados before gaining a scholarship to Malvern College, Worcestershire, England at 15 years old. Ricky made his first Class debut as a 17 year old fast bowler for Worcestershire CCC before being selected for the England cricket team at 24. A major back injury and two unsuccessful back operations was to ultimately end his cricket career.

He retrained in 1993 as a pilot at the British Aerospace Flying College and gained his MSc in Air Transport Planning and Management at The University of Westminster. Ricky joined Virgin Atlantic Airways in 1997 as their first black pilot and would go on to take command of the Boeing 747-400 (Jumbo) from 2005 until 2015 before switching to command the 787-900 (Dreamliner).

Connect with Ricky Ellcock via LinkedIn: Website: and find out about his book Balls to Fly

Time Stamps
02:08 Ricky's Early Life in Barbados
04:07 Cricket Career and Challenges
06:23 Cultural Shock and Education in England
12:04 Injuries and Setbacks in Cricket
20:00 Transition to Aviation and Overcoming Depression
24:32 Becoming Virgin Atlantic's First Black 747 Captain
32:18 Health Challenges and Writing a Book

Key Quotes

•  Everything that I saw was new. I'd never worn a jacket. I'd never seen a colour TV or a toaster.
•  At 16 years old, I could probably bowl a ball, near enough 90 miles an hour.
• My dad said  black people don't fly aeroplanes. 
•  I think every professional sportsman has to be dedicated. You have to have a major work ethic..

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale  Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Host Sue Stockdale reflects on an incredible year filled with growth and achievement and co-founder Clive Steeper and Sound Editor Matias de Ezcurra reflect on the episode has the greatest impact on each of them.

Listeners are invited to revisit highlights, key insights, and memorable moments from the year, including a reminder of practical tips on embracing failure, fostering openness within teams and using intuition. This episode serves as a celebration of our inspiring guests and the insights gained from them.

Timestamps
00:00:25 - Celebrating Achievements
00:02:14 - Clive's Favourite Episode
00:05:14 - Matias' Favourite Episode
00:07:39 - Embracing Failure and Learning
00:08:15 - Astronaut Robert Thirsk on Failure
00:08:26 - Danielle McDonough on Fear of Failure
00:09:43 - Keith Sharpe on Team Openness
00:11:18 - Eveline van den Heuvel on Regulating the Nervous System
00:13:21 - Sue's Favourite Episode


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Producer: Sue Stockdale  Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale interviews philosopher Dr. Christoph Quarch, exploring his definition of philosophy and its relevance in today's world. Christoph shares his personal journey toward philosophy, his academic path, and the importance of meaningful conversation as a means for individual and collective transformation. They reflect on the significance of inspiration and spirit in fostering innovation and organisational change, as well as delving into the need for slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and embracing open-mindedness as keys to living a more fulfilling life.

About Dr. Christoph Quarch
Dr. Christoph Quarch is a philosopher and bestselling author of numerous books on philosophical, ethical, economic and social topics. He supports executives in companies, teaches as professor at Danube Private University in Krems a. d. Donau and as a lecturer at Fulda University of Applied Sciences, Hamburg School of Business Administration (HSBA) and Basel University. Christoph organises philosophical journeys for the weekly newspaper DIE ZEIT, and together with his podcasts, articles and the weekly radio column "Frühstücksquarch”, he covers a wide audience throughout the German-speaking world. Quarch's work draws on the sources of European philosophy to provide answers to the multiple challenges of the 21st century. In 2019, he and his wife Christine Teufel founded the New Platonic Academy to promote a renaissance of European humanism.

Connect with Christoph Quarch via website

Key Quotes

• Philosophy is mostly about analyzing and deciphering our current mindset
• There's a kind of operational system. which is working on our brain, on our mind, and we hardly ever reflect on it.
• We think conversation is something that is so taken for granted, everybody knows how to do it. But in fact, we don't know how to do it.
• Usually we do not listen to the words that other people  use, but we only hear what we want to hear.
• The more tools, instruments of communication we have, the less developed seems to be our capacity to converse in a good way.
• I think we need to learn to reconnect in a proper way, to reconnect with life, to reconnect with nature, to reconnect with being itself.
• I want to convince people  that life is easier and probably more fulfilling when we stop trying to do everything on the basis of our own power and our own ambition.

Time Stamps
[02:48] Collective social patterns and habits.
[05:05] Philosophy as a lifestyle.
[11:41] The importance of meaningful dialogue.
[15:11] Socratic dialogue and reflection.
[16:56] Disruptive Mindset in Transformation.
[22:08] The significance of inspiration.
[25:42] Spiritual dimension in conversation.
[29:05] The essence of human interaction.
[32:46] Reconnecting with nature's meaning.
[40:00] Open attitude towards philosophy.
[41:29] Engaging with philosophical conversations.


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Producer: Sue Stockdale  Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale talks to Paméla Bisson from Quebec City, who is a media arts advocate and the founder of Le Machin Club - a nonprofit dedicated to engaging children aged 9 to 13 in creative projects like short films, podcasts, and a weekly radio show. Through Le Machin Club, Pamela strives to empower children and foster a more conscious and aware generation in Quebec City's vibrant cultural landscape. Pamela recounts her journey from a summer camp counsellor to establishing her organisation and her mission to spark curiosity and empathy within young people. She shares her challenges, achievements, and transformative experiences in places like Senegal and Brazil, which have shaped her views on privilege, social awareness, and consumerism.

About Paméla Bisson
Paméla is a new media arts artist and movie director based in Quebec City, Québec. Holding a degree in Cultural action and social studies from the University of Québec in Montréal, she initiates projects focused on arts, culture, the planet and humankind. In 2015, she created Le Machin Club, a non profit organisation which produces media quality content by, and for youth, with collaboration of professionals. Based in Québec city, its mission is to empower youth, locally and globally, with creativity to be active in their community.

Connect with Pamela Bisson via website: Linkedin: Instagram : Facebook
and Le Machin Club via website: YouTube : Instagram : Facebook

Key Quotes

• Le Machin Club uses media arts to create a spark in the kids
• In the nine years that it has been running, we've been involving over around 500 children
•  Here we have a lot of privileges and we should not take them for granted
• There's a lot of injustice in the world and when you discover that perspective, you either do nothing with it or you see what you can do.
• I think arts in general are opening the boundaries we have in our own mindset.

Time Stamps
03:35 Inspiration and Background
06:18 The Birth of Le Machin Club
08:55 Engaging with the Community
17:02 Achieving Balance in Personal and Professional Life
18:26 Cultural Landscape of Quebec City
19:49 Challenges and Opportunities in Arts and Culture
24:20 Inspiration from Travel and Cultural Exchange
27:22 Profound Experiences and Personal Growth
32:10 Final Thoughts and Advice for Adults 


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Producer: Sue Stockdale  Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Keith Sharpe, Head of Coaching and Leadership Development for the GB Cycling team talks to Sue Stockdale about his work helping athletes and coaches to be better tomorrow, by supporting them today. Keith explains how to create a high performance environment by role modelling curiosity, kindness and humility, and why playfulness and concise communication are key elements of success.
 
About Keith Sharpe
Keith has worked in elite sport for 24 years, gaining a wide range of experiences supporting athletes and coaches in Olympic, Paralympic and Professional sports. He is currently Head of Coaching and Leadership Development for the GB Cycling team. Keith is also a coach mentor for the Premier League. He spent a number of years working in Ghana and Denmark for Right to Dream and FC Nordsjaelland leading their Character Development strategy and delivery. Mindful of giving back, Keith is a Samaritans listener and founded his village Beer Club, which runs quarterly, promoting local suppliers and supporting the local community. 

Connect with Keith Sharpe on LinkedIn 

Key Quotes

• To not be curious is to be dead
• Kids always ask why, why, why? I think the day that we stop asking that is quite a shame
• I want to say or convey my message in the best way with as few words as possible.
• We're pushing the athletes every day to be a better version of themselves.
• I don't think there is failure. I think there's only learning.
• We're all carrying a story and to normalise that rather than to hide away from that is really important.
• I think that role modelling of being vulnerable is really important in the workplace.
• Inspiration comes from people passionate about what they're doing and doing it really well
• Trust yourself. You can do it. You can fluff your feathers and you can give it a go.
  

Time Stamps
[03:45] The role of curiosity in careers
[06:15] Overcoming self-doubt in communication
[11:35] Normalising workplace conversations
[13:41] Learning from performance outcomes
[18:03] Authentic leadership styles
[23:26] Importance of kindness in leadership
[25:27] Playfulness in learning environments
[31:06] Toastmasters for communication development
[35:00] Community engagement and leadership. 


Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale  Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Award-winning photographer Renato Granieri discusses with host Sue Stockdale his transformation from a corporate career to becoming an wildlife and travel photographer. Born in Sardinia and settled in the UK, Granieri shares how a trip to the Faroe Islands sparked his passion for photography at the age of 40 and the pivotal role his partner, a travel journalist, played in his career switch. Granieri emphasises the importance of patience, visualisation, and planning in capturing stunning wildlife images and describes the diverse global locales he explores from Antarctica to the jungles of Africa. He also shares his insights on using new technologies like drones for photography and how his work has become a lifestyle deeply rooted in nature conservation. 

About Renato Granieri
Renato has been a wildlife photographer since 2014. Since his first visit to the Arctic, Renato has travelled regularly to the Arctic and Antarctica. In 2024, Renato has reached the geographical North Pole on an expedition vessel. Renato has won several awards, including the Grand Prize of the National Geographic Traveller on two separate occasions, the Bird Photographer of the Year and the Asferico International Contest. Renato has been commissioned by newspapers, magazines, tour operators and tourist boards and also leads specialist photographic tours to a number of destinations around the world.
 
Amongst all, he spends considerable time with chimpanzees, both with those in the wild and those under rehabilitation, contributing to raising money for the preservation of the species. Renato has a strong passion for conservation and is actively involved in a project with Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Sierra Leone. In 2022, he was made an official ambassador for the chimpanzees of Sierra Leone. He has two main long-term goals: help with the preservation of wildlife, particularly with great apes and the habitat they live in and inspire others to take care of our planet and travel the world responsibly.
 
Connect with Renato Granieri via website | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook

Key Quotes

• I started touching my first camera at the age of 40.
• Visiting a colony of puffins was the turning point when I started getting very obsessive about wildlife and the natural environment
• You get paid to do something that you really like and change your life and change the way you see things
• Click less and think more
• One excellent shot is worth millions of average shots
• Learn the rules because they're very important, but also learn how to break those rules

Time Stamps
03:29 Discovering Photography: A Life-Changing Journey
06:13 The Creative Process and Inspirations
11:00 Wildlife Encounters and Photography Techniques
25:36 Tools of the Trade: Renato's Equipment
28:53 Building a Photography Business
30:35 Reflections and Advice for Aspiring Photographers

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Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale talks to learning designer Agnese Spona about the process of creating learning experiences. Agnese shares her frustrations with traditional education systems and the barriers to scaling individualised learning. The conversation concludes with thoughts on how to inspire better human interactions and curiosity within educational contexts, considering the rapidly evolving landscape influenced by AI and technology.

About Agnese Spona
Agnese Spona is a professional with a passion for empowering individuals and organisations through transformative learning experiences. Agnese is  founder of Ness, a learning design and facilitation practice focused on fostering growth and positive change. She also co-founded MadeFor, an international learning business where she led instructional design, customer experience strategy, and brand building as well served as a management team member at the Customer Bureau.

Agnese's insights on education sector has been deepened in her role as a thesis and research supervisor at Hague University of Applied Sciences and Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. She is also a founding member of Women in CX and has served as a Strategy and Proposition Design advisor at Logiscool Netherlands (coding school for kids). Her volunteer work : TEDx Amsterdam Impact Program Coach and with Project Fearless demonstrate her commitment to community and social impact.

Find out more about Agnese Spona via her website : Instagram and LinkedIn

Key Quotes

• How do you actually motivate people to recognise that they want to learn?
• One of the things that's really hard in education is evaluation of effectiveness of that education.
• The ultimate goal is to make sure that you consider really the learner  in your design.
• If AI can do your Excel spreadsheet the question is what you're going to do then with that Excel spreadsheet.

Time Stamps

01:35 Agnese's Journey into Learning Design
03:14 Building a Learning Business
04:29 Understanding the Learner's Needs
08:37 Challenges in Traditional Education
14:21  Impact of COVID and AI on Learning
19:13  Personal Reflections on Education
22:05 Curiosity and Customized Learning
24:34 Scaling Individualized Learning
27:41 Future of Learning and AI

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

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Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
Producer: Sue Stockdale 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale speaks with Mark Fletcher, the owner of Altitude Esports, about what led him to forming and leading an esports racing team. Mark shares his deep-rooted passion for racing, influenced by his father's racing background and their combined foray into model car racing. He explains how the team was founded from personal loss and a desire to create a community. The conversation also touches on Mark's engagement with Sports 2000 racing, integrating his virtual racing skills into real-world mechanics, and the supportive family-like environment within the racing community.

About Mark Fletcher
Mark Fletcher is 36 years old and lives in Worcestershire, England. He is the owner of Altitude Esports, an iRacing esports team and SimFly Driver Development. Mark has a passion for most sports, and in his spare time runs, plays golf, and mechanic for a Sports 2000 race team. He enjoys travelling and exploring new places. 

Altitude eSports is a media partner of Access to Inspiration podcast.

Connect with Mark and Altitude Esports via Facebook and Twitch.

Key Quotes

• There are paid professionals who earn more than I do in my day job and they are racing on a simulator
• It's not just a day out for lads and dads
• We have exactly the same infrastructure as you would for a real race
• We can simulate in the SIM everything that the real world will throw at you
• Find your way to remember these people who have passed and make them still part of your life every day
• Every time that the car touches the track, its like I remember mum

Time Stamps
02:28 What is eSports Racing?
03:19 The Competitiveness of eSports
04:20 Formation of Altitude eSports
07:47 Challenges and Personal Motivations
10:47 Team Dynamics and Recruitment
21:08 Balancing Real and Virtual Racing
28:19 Getting Started with Sim Racing

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

If you are enjoying this podcast - Buy Me A Coffee and leave us a message to help us continue producing quality audio content for our listeners.

Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra
Producer: Sue Stockdale 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale talks to Eveline van den Heuvel about her fascinating life journey and academic background in cognitive neuroscience and health psychology. Eveline delves deep into the importance of questioning everything, connecting with people, and harnessing intuition and creativity in both personal and professional life, highlighting its significance in today’s world driven by technology and artificial intelligence.

About Eveline van den Heuvel
Eveline's genius is to help others pave the way into the unknown by creating a bridge between the pragmatic, transactional world and the ethereal creative space of imagination. She holds a Masters in Cognitive Neuroscience and Health Psychology as well as being a certified Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and Breathwork coach. During her 20 years as a professional she has worked in academia, the startup and corporate world, as well as in personal and executive coaching. She loves bringing ideas to life particularly in the space between technology, neuroscience and meditation. Eveline also works as a facilitator, gently encouraging people to show and bring more of themselves within group workshops or regular monthly sessions.

Connect with Eveline van den Heuvel via Linkedin and Instagram

Francis Cholle TEDX Talk on Intuitive Intelligence recommended by Eveline

Key Quotes

• I counted how many homes I had lived in and I came to 36 houses by the age of 30.
• Intuition is not separate from creativity, but forms the basis for it.
• I think sometimes we can define limitations for others by what we say to them, what we say is possible for them.
• I remember having experiences where I had these senses like I know what somebody's feeling I've been here before.
• Allow yourself to learn something about yourself that you didn't already know.
• They found that 81 percent of the CEOs actually used their intuition to make certain decisions.

Time Stamps
02:20 Childhood Memories and Playfulness
03:23 Nomadic Lifestyle and Life Lessons
06:41 Academic Journey and Neuroscience
12:19 Exploring Intuition and Personal Growth
17:09 Integrating Intuition in Business
25:33 Practical Tips for Accessing Intuition

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Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In this episode 134, previous guest from episode 87 Dr Sarah Gilchrist introduces her guest, David Smith MBE, a former Paralympic rower with an impressive sports background. David shares his journey from winning a gold medal at the 2012 London Paralympic Games, to facing the reality of paralysis and living with challenging medical issues. David stresses the significance of staying connected to the current moment as a key element of success and a fulfilling life. He introduces the concept of "being where your feet are," emphasising the value of focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This mindset enables individuals to fully engage with their surroundings, experiences, and emotions, leading to a heightened sense of awareness and gratitude for life.

About David Smith MBE
David Smith MBE is a remarkable athlete, inspirational speaker, and advocate for resilience and mental strength. With an illustrious career in sports, David has competed at the highest levels, earning accolades in both rowing and cycling. His journey is marked by extraordinary achievements, including winning gold at the London 2012 Paralympic Games as part of the mixed coxed four rowing team. David's life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive tumor on his spinal cord. Despite facing multiple surgeries and the threat of paralysis, David's unwavering determination and positivity saw him return to competitive sport. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit. Awarded an MBE for his services to rowing and inspiring others, David now dedicates his life to motivational speaking, sharing his experiences with global audiences. Through his talks and podcasts, he empowers others to overcome adversity and embrace life's challenges with courage and optimism. Discover the incredible journey of David Smith exploring what he learned from his athletic career, his battles with health, and his mission to inspire resilience and a new perspective on life in others.

Connect with David Smith MBE via LinkedIn and his website

Time Stamps
02:05 - David's Tumour Diagnosis
04:03 - Impact of Tumour on Life
07:35 - Athlete's Awareness of Their Body
13:06 - Self-Management and Learning
16:06 - Challenges of Self-Rehabilitation
19:02 - Observing and Listening
23:00 - Finding Beauty in Simple Things
27:00 - Roberto's Story
31:08 - Redefining Success
36:37 - Humour in Difficult Times

Key Quotes

• "How do I make the world just a better place through my understanding of 14 years on cancer wards and neurosurgery wards and everything I've seen there."
• I think that my superpower was to realize the impermanence of life and to know that it doesn't last forever.
• I love getting bored in the countryside because it just feels like my days are going longer, which gives me longer time on this planet.
• I always try to smile to people because I know what it's like when someone smiles to me.
• I guess I paid the ultimate price to learn this lesson, but that is the paradox of all of this is that it taught me how to live.
• You see this strength come from the human spirit, this will to live, will to survive, which is beautiful. There's this level of humility.
• You need human doings as well to change the world.
• If you're born and you're lucky to live to 80, you're given 4,000 weeks.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Host Sue Stockdale interviews Shoko Doherty, CEO of Celtic English Academy, who originally hails from Japan and now resides in Wales. Shoko shares her experiences of cultural differences between Japan and Wales after moving 20 years ago, highlighting aspects of respect and societal values.

Shoko also describes how they embrace cultural differences and foster a multicultural environment with the students to lead to positive experiences for both students and staff and contribute to building a more inclusive and harmonious society.

About Shoko Doherty
Shoko Doherty is the CEO of Celtic English Academy, an English language school in Cardiff accredited by the British Council, which has welcomed over 15,000 students from more than 50 countries in the past 20 years. She also serves as the Chair of English UK, a national association dedicated to advancing international students' education in the English language within the UK.

Shoko is recognised for her role in exporting education and contributing to international trade as a Welsh Government Export Exemplar and as an Export Champion for the UK Government Department of Business and Trade. Holding a degree in music from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Shoko has an interest in classical music, especially brass bands. 

Connect with Shoko Doherty on LinkedIn : and Celtic English Academy on LinkedIn : Instagram : Facebook : TikTok

Key Quotes

• When I learned to speak in English, I was still using sense of Japanese language in a way, translating from Japanese to English
• Making mistakes in front of somebody in Japan is taught as a quite big embarrassment.
• I'm really proud that we do make differences in students' lives every day
• Language school is like a microcosm of the world where people from different countries and backgrounds meet and learn together.
• We recruit students from over 50 countries and the diversity of nationalities and the market are really important.
• Being a musician is like being an athlete. It's not so elegant behind the scene, unfortunately. It requires a high level of discipline, long hours of practice and ability to work collaboratively with others.

Time Stamps
02:20 - Cultural Differences Between Japan and Wales
08:11 - Career Path to become CEO of Celtic English Academy
14:01 - Implementing Diversity and Equality
20:40 - Continuous Learning and Development
25:01 - Measuring Success Beyond Profitability

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale talks to Cobe Williams, the Director of U.S. programming for Cure Violence Global, as he reflects on his upbringing in Chicago, his exposure to street and gang life, and the impact of violence in his community. From childhood memories of block parties to the absence of a father figure leading him to the streets, Kobe shares poignant moments that shaped his life and perspective on the importance of addressing violence in communities. Learn how Cobe turned his life around to focus on community work, relationships, violence prevention, and the impact of the Cure Violence Global model. 

About Cobe Williams
Ricardo "Cobe" Williams's journey from the depths of gang life to becoming an international symbol of peace is nothing short of remarkable. His life story reads like a screenplay - born into the notorious Black Disciples, a childhood marred by the brutal murder of his father, and years spent navigating the treacherous waters of gang leadership. Yet, his astonishing turnaround - from gang leader to award-winning peacekeeper and community activist - offers a blueprint for social reform worldwide.

His work has been celebrated across media outlets like People Magazine and he has earned many accolades, including the Hero Award from Phillip Zimbardo and the United Nations Peace Award. Cobe serves as Director of US Programs for Cure Violence Global, overseeing training and technical assistance for more than 50 sites across more than 20 cities. Cobe travels the globe training violence interrupters in mediation and conflict resolution strategies. 

Connect with Cobe Williams via Interrupt The Violence.com 

Key Quotes

• “It's important to listen and get to know people and build relationships.
• “ A lot of youth feel nobody listen to them."
• “ A lot of times people, on the news when somebody got shot or somebody got killed or whatever, they always say it's gang related. That's not true. A lot of this violence is interpersonal."
• "I can help save somebody's life. It feels good to know I saved somebody from getting shot and getting killed."
• “People don't just wake up and say they want to do something bad to somebody, right? But a lot of times people they don't know how to ask for help."
• "Meet people where they are. Don't judge nobody because you never know what they've been through and what they're going through."
• "It's not how you start, but it's how you finish."

Time Stamps
[03:16] Turning point in court.
[06:40] Interpersonal violence beyond gangs.
[10:48] Credibility and community impact.
[12:44] Sports and community building.
[17:56] Overcoming struggles and inspiring others.
[20:47] Building relationships and understanding.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Manuela Gil who was a guest on episode 73 returns to introduce Maritza Lopez, a former corporate professional turned eco-entrepreneur from Colombia. Maritza, the CEO of MyEcoHome is working on regenerating the Earth through bio-products extracted from Colombian forests, and explains the importance of maintaining forests for sustainability, creating value from forests, preserving biodiversity, and developing productive forests for future generations. Maritza also explains why she changed career at age 40 as well as addressing why she wants to preserve tropical dry forests in Colombia.

About Maritza Lopez
Maritza is an executive with over 15 years of experience in managing both private and state-owned companies. She is recognised as a prominent leader in entrepreneurship and the development of non-timber forest products from Colombia's forests. Her career spans public and private organisations, where Maritza has consistently demonstrated exceptional skills in strategic management and driving triple bottom line impact initiatives. Her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to sustainability has significantly impacted natural resource conservation and economic development in local communities.

Connect with Maritza Lopez via LinkedIn  and website  

Key Quotes

• “Productive forests are forests that are romantic, poetic but also economical."
• "I think the main challenge for me now is embracing the scarcity."
• “What I'm trying to do is to live my life despite the uncertainty,”.
• "I imagine that we can regenerate 2% of the tropical dry forest in Colombia"
• "I want my daughter to see me as a woman that could follow her heart no matter what"
• “Risk must be taken because the greatest hardship of life is to risk nothing."

Time Stamps
[04:55] Productive forests and incentives.
[08:06] Understanding Colombian forest ecosystems.
[11:45] Preserving tropical rainforest through entrepreneurship.
[19:50] Balancing challenges in bioeconomy.
[24:32] Spiritual evolution in business.
[29:13] Taking risks in life.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale talks to Urs Koenig about his insights and experiences from his time serving as a peacekeeper, shedding light on the importance of humility in leadership in a demanding and high-stakes environment. Koenig explains the concept of 'radical humility' which he describes as the ability to be a bad ass leader and a good human at the same time.

About Urs Koenig
Urs is a former United Nations military peacekeeper and NATO military peacekeeping commander, a highly accomplished ultra-endurance champion, a widely published professor, bestselling author, and a seasoned executive coach and keynote speaker with more than three decades of experience helping hundreds of leaders and dozens of executive teams unlock new levels of achievement across four continents. He is the founder of the Radical Humility Leadership Institute and speaks frequently on the topic of leadership to corporations and associations across the globe. He holds a PhD in geography and a Master of Science from the University of Zürich, Switzerland, and an MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management. Urs is the loving father of two teenage boys who make commanding soldiers look easy. He lives in Seattle, Washington.

Connect with Urs Koenig on LinkedIn - Twitter - Instagram - website 

Time Stamps
[06:03] The role of humility in leadership.
[09:24] Humility in media portrayal.
[14:30] Radical humility.
[18:20] Embracing regular feedback.
[20:06] Leaders asking the right questions.
[25:29] Relationship building in virtual world.
[27:44] Building Trust in Relationships.

Key Quotes

•  "The best commanders I had were deeply humble. They had great self-awareness, they built meaningful relationships with their team members, and they applied a growth mindset."
• "I was always drawn to highly successful people who could have the humility and say, I actually don't know, but I'll go and find out."
• "The most important decision in strategy is deciding what not to do and having the humility to say no to everything else."
• "All of us should aspire to building a leadership factory in our teams"
• "You can't half-ass humility."
•  "I say be a badass leader and a good human"
• "Be more courageous in chartering your own course."

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In episode 129 Sue Stockdale talks to Dana Frank, who shares the story of her family business, TD Frank Family Properties. Dana explains the origins of the business dating back to 1950 and how determination and hard work laid the foundation for a successful business that continues to thrive today. Learn about the legacy of resilience and entrepreneurship that shaped TD Frank Family Properties over the years. Dana also talks about her book Get Up And Get On It, where she reveals the formula for creating generational wealth based on human experience that everyone can relate to. 

Find out more about Dana Frank via Dana's website and Instagram 

Key Quotes

• "Only 12% of family businesses make it to the third generation."
• "I treat my properties like I treated raising my children."
• "We are engaged every day and we have fun. It's such a fortunate position to be in where everybody's working towards the same cause. And when we win, we all win together."
• "Cash erodes, equity grows."

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Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In this episode host Sue Stockdale talks to Ricardo Brito about his journey of experiencing burnout and how it led him to a pivotal moment of realisation. Ricardo reflects on the challenging work environment, dissatisfaction with the tech world, and the breaking point that made him reassess his path. 

About Ricardo Brito
Ricardo Brito is a career and life coach helping people pave their way to personal and professional fulfilling balance through what he calls the PATH Method. Ricardo’s journey began back in 2021, when deeply entrenched in the corporate tech world as a UX design lead he found himself battling burnout, disillusionment, and defeat. The turning point came when he reached a breaking point and sought medical help, realizing that something needed to change. This led him on an unexpected path of rediscovering himself through therapy, coaching, and experimentation. As he delved into coaching, Ricardo found a renewed sense of purpose and direction. 

Connect with Ricardo Brito on LinkedIn  and access his free Career Storytelling Kit or newsletter 

Time Stamps
[00:04:14] Financial and identity beliefs.
[00:06:23] Resistance to change.
[00:09:26] Embracing experimentation and playfulness.
[00:15:12] Identity and entrepreneurship.
[00:16:49] Transition in career coaching.
[00:21:19] The power of storytelling.
[00:25:31] Preventing burnout through self-care.

Key Quotes

• "I just shut down my laptop and said, I can't do this anymore."
• “Addressing the nature of that resistance is the first step to understand how can you let it go, call it by what it is and figuring out where it comes from."
• "It's a new confrontation with yourself and your identity."
• “We need to have those things to inspire us to move forward."
• "Changing how you approach things to make sure that you're invigorated and don't burn out again."
• "The better medicine is preventive medicine, not healing. So prevent your career burnout.”

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn 
If you are enjoying this podcast and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale previews upcoming Series 18 and describes the typical diversity and range of guests that appear on the podcast.

In Series 18 there will be a guest hosted episode and another featuring a guest recommended to us by a previous podcast guest.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn 
If you are enjoying this podcast and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee
Read our latest Impact Report

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In this bonus episode of the Access to Inspiration podcast, host Sue Stockdale announces the release of the 2024 Impact Report, highlighting the podcast's achievements and how it creates a social impact.  Listeners share their love for the inspiring conversations and the hidden gems found in each episode.

Read the Impact Report on the website

Notable key points from the report are:

• Guest Inspiration: 81% of guests felt inspired to participate in another podcast after their experience with Access to Inspiration​​.
• Positive Feedback: Guests have praised the professional and empathetic approach of the hosts, highlighting how well-researched questions and organic conversations have made them feel valued and encouraged to share their stories.
• Diverse Guest Representation: Guests represented 33 countries, with a 50:50 gender split, and 40% of guests were first-time podcasters​​.
• Listener Engagement and Impact: Listeners reported being inspired to take bold steps in their careers and personal lives, reflecting the podcast's mission to foster personal and professional growth​​.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn 
If you are enjoying this podcast and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale talks to Monique Maissan, CEO of Waste2Wear about her entrepreneurial journey to manufacture textiles from recycled plastic bottles. Monique saw an opportunity to make a positive impact in the textile industry, one of the most polluting industries in the world, and pivoted her business to focus on this. Monique emphasises the importance of seeing waste as a valuable source and viewing it not as a problem to be disposed of, but as a resource that can be repurposed and reused, so that we can shift towards a more sustainable and circular economy.  

About Monique Maissan
Dutch entrepreneur, Monique Maissan specialises in sustainable solutions for the textile industry.  As CEO of Waste2Wear she is a pioneer in creating products from recycled plastics. This includes fabrics and finished products from recycled plastic bottles (RPET) and bags from recycled polypropylene (RPP) from discarded domestic appliances and single use food containers. Through Monique’s leadership, Waste2Wear has won several industry awards for their unique products; blockchain transparency and RPET testing method (RA-3) that identifies recycled plastic bottle content in fabrics.
Find out more via website | LinkedIn | Instagram

Time Stamps
[02:17] Textile industry pollution concerns.
[09:51] The impact of marketing on recycling.
[14:07] Transparency in recycling industry.
[15:54] Ensuring authenticity in supply chains.
[22:59] Sustainability and changing demands.
[25:16] The importance of innovation.
[32:18] A sustainable legacy.
[35:24] Viewing waste as valuable resource.

Key Quotes

• “I hope that I actually could close the business because there's no more plastic to recycle. That is my goal."
• “The textile industry is a very polluting industry”
• “We calculate with every step what is the reduction in water, in energy and in carbon footprint compared to the virgin equivalent”.
• “To date we have recycled about 100 million plastic bottles”.
• “Post consumer recycled polypropylene is only being recycled 1% in the world”.
• “The millennials, when they are sitting with a Gen Z it's going to be a comparison of how sustainable are you, not if you are sustainable”.
• “The key to any business is you need to keep innovating”.
• “I am inspired by young people who actively want to make a difference.”
• “It's not always good to keep on doing things. It's also good to stop things”.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn 
If you are enjoying this podcast and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale talks to Sofia Heinonen, Executive Director of Rewilding Argentina. Sofia shares her journey from a young girl fascinated by the natural world to leading significant conservation efforts in Argentina and beyond. She discusses her initial work in national parks and how her encounter with conservationists Doug and Kris Tompkins profoundly influenced her perspective, shifting her focus from merely protecting land to actively restoring and rewilding ecosystems.

About Sofia Heinonen
Sofía Heinonen was born and raised in Buenos Aires where she trained as a biologist. An activist by nature, she has spent more than thirty years designing large-scale and long-term projects to create protected areas and restore natural ecosystems. Sofía was part of Fundación Vida Silvestre and the National Parks Administration before joining the Iberá Project in 2005, led by Doug and Kris Tompkins (CLT Argentina), which Rewilding Argentina would later continue. 

She is currently Executive Director where she leads four projects that cover more than one million hectares and a team of more than 200 people.

In 2022, the BBC recognised her as one of the 100 most influential women on the planet.

Find out more about Rewilding Argentina at Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube

Please complete our short survey to give us your feedback about the podcast

Time Stamps
02:34 - Rewilding Argentina's Mission
04:01 - Achievements in Iberá Wetland
06:30 - Economic and Legal Challenges
08:28 - Personal Challenges and Growth
10:25 - The Impact of Rewilding on Iberá
14:37 - Cultural and Mindset Changes
18:15 - Vision for Expanding Conservation Efforts
22:08 - Leadership and Inspiration
28:17 - The Importance of Perspective
34:27 - Passing the Baton 

Key Quotes

• "Doug Tompkins said it will take time, but eventually we will win because the law is on our side, and in 20 years nobody will remember the conflicts."
• "It was like a big war in the sense of changing of land use and changing of paradigm and change the economy."
• "Changing culture is really the big issue with climate change."
• “We need to change the context that get the jaguars to become extinct. And that is economy, the culture and the way we perceive the territory."
• “We are facing now this big challenge of trying to reconnect South America through the rivers. And that is our vision for the next 20 years."
• "I'm 100% passionate about what I do. It's not work, it's life."
• "We work for nature and to restore nature, but nature is basically the way we restore ourselves. In a way, it's like rewilding our own spirit."
• "I think to be more conscious that we can make a change is a good thing".

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn 
If you are enjoying this podcast and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale 
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale explores the transformative power of Raleigh International expeditions with Lucy Constable Fernandez and Jeremy Fish. Since the organisation was launched in 1978 by Colonel John Blashford-Snell, more than 50,000 individuals have participated in expeditions around the world. Sue discovers the impact that it has had, and how the organisation has adapted to continue offering life-enhancing journeys for young people today. 

About Jeremy Fish and Lucy Constable Fernandez 
Jeremy participated as a venturer to Indonesia in 1987; and to Guyana in 1988 as a volunteer manager. He was a Raleigh Board member for seven years including three as Vice Chair. In 2018 Jeremy was founder of Raleigh UK Alumni society and is currently Co-chair. He has also been a businessman for 30+ years and is a passionate believer in providing young people with opportunities to develop their leadership skills. 
Connect with Jeremy via LinkedIn and the Raleigh UK Alumni Society or via Email. 

Lucy is Managing Director of Raleigh International. Her career spans over ten years in marketing and communications in the not-for-profit sector. As a proud mother to a 12-year-old boy, Lucy understands the importance of nurturing the next generation of leaders. Lucy steers the strategic direction and leads the marketing, recruitment, and pre-departure teams. She also collaborates closely with Country Directors and Expedition Delivery teams to fulfil Raleigh's mission of empowering young individuals worldwide.
Connect with Lucy via LinkedIn and Raleigh International via website : Instagram: Facebook : LinkedIn : YouTube 

Please complete our short listener survey to give us your feedback about the podcast. (3 questions it takes less than 1 minute)

Key Quotes

• Raleigh really changed my life back in the late 1980s and gave me a bigger perspective on the world."
• "If somebody has Raleigh on their CV, I think they're eminently more employable. It shows that they've got some get up and go. They're a self-starter. They've got some initiative."
• "Raleigh is generally recognised as being a fantastic way of accelerating people's development"
• "You realise that you can do it. You never thought you could, but you get to the end of the day, it’s one foot in front of the other."
• “That's how you learn, develop and grow from listening to other viewpoints."
• "If they're missing home, actually sometimes having that constant contact makes it a lot worse and just getting stuck in is something that helps."
• "It encourages business leaders to think about their impact on the environment and also how they're developing their young people”.
• “Today's young people are tomorrow's managers and leaders of the future."
• "Raleigh is an experience that lives with you for your entire life. It's something you draw upon as a resource in moments of weakness. It's something you draw upon in times of celebration. And it's something you reflect on and it will change your life.”

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
If you are enjoying this podcast and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In episode 124 we delve into the world of outdoor education with Neil Wightwick, a leading figure in driving national policy in Scotland to make outdoor education accessible to all. Discover how outdoor environments can become powerful classrooms and how physical challenges can foster growth and curiosity in students. Neil shares his passion for varied outdoor activities and recounts his own experiences, such as rowing across the Atlantic, which taught him the importance of resilience and the power of nature. Neil also discusses with host, Sue Stockdale his work in enabling young people to engage with the outdoors, particularly those from marginalised communities. 

About Neil Wightwick 
Neil Wightwick is a modern-day explorer and tireless advocate for adventurous education, whose remarkable adventures have taken him to the farthest reaches of the globe. With a resume that includes rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, scaling unclimbed peaks in Patagonia, and crossing the vast expanse of the Kalahari Desert on foot, Neil's thirst for adventure knows no bounds. Throughout his career, Neil has been driven by a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of outdoor experiences, particularly for young people. He is currently serving as the CEO of the Scottish Advisory Panel for Outdoor Education and Head of Glasgow City Council's Outdoor Education Services. Through his leadership roles, he is shaping the landscape of outdoor education, ensuring that future generations have the chance to explore, learn, and grow through adventurous experiences in the great outdoors.

Connect with Neil Wightwick via LinkedIn. 

Please complete our short listener survey to give us your feedback about the podcast. (3 questions it takes less than 1 minute)

Key Quotes 

• "I like to have variety, and I like to learn from all of those different experiences."
• "The solutions and the challenges of today and tomorrow aren't going to be solved by students who have learned how to regurgitate information in a test."
• “If I don't get outside and I don't have some kind of physical activity, it does start to affect my mental well-being."
• “There are a number of ways that outdoor learning and adventurous education can interact in really positive ways with the digital world."
• “We're always coming full circle to appreciating the value of silence and conversation and experience in present time rather than looking at technology at the same time."

Time Stamps
[02:15] Adventure in everyday life.
[06:03] Adventurous education and experiential learning.
[09:24] Outdoors as a mental tonic.
[13:55] Impact of adventurous learning.
[17:13] Outdoor education impact on society.
[25:35] Digital detox in expeditions.
[29:23] Small steps lead to adventures.
[30:52] Adventure and environmental impact.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
If you are enjoying this podcast and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In episode 123 we explore the world of sports and mindset mastery with Danielle McDonough, a former professional ice hockey player turned mindset coach. Danielle shares her journey from the ice rink to coaching, emphasising the importance of overcoming self-doubt to achieve peak performance. Host Sue Stockdale talks to Danielle about athlete psychology, imposter syndrome, and practical strategies for reshaping our thinking in challenging situations.

About Danielle McDonough

Danielle McDonough started skating at age 4 and playing hockey at age 5, and later received a BA in Sociology from Providence College while on full athletic scholarship for ice hockey. She played in the National Women's Hockey League (WNHL) for 2 years and professionally in Lugano, Switzerland for 2 years. After retiring from professional sport Danielle gained a MA in Sport & Exercise Psychology and is now CEO of Peak Performance Training LLC working with athletes, coaches, and parents on the mental side of performance. She is the official Mental Skills Coach for the USA Hockey National Development Camp and author of  The Empowered Athlete—Self-Confidence, Self-Acceptance, and Self-Worth: An Athlete’s Guide to Excellence.

Connect with Danielle McDonough: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn  | get her free e-book

Please complete our short listener survey to give us your feedback about the podcast. (3 questions it takes less than 1 minute)

Key Quotes 

• "As soon as I step on the ice, I'm just free in a way. I really love that about it."
• "I like the full contact aspect. I like the hitting piece."
• "Your mind can sabotage everything. It doesn't matter how physically fit or capable you are. If your mind isn't right, you can talk yourself out of everything"
• "I thought I was the only person on the entire face of this earth who was experiencing these things."
• "Diaphragmatic breathing is so powerful and so important and can change your state of mind and the way that you're feeling in your body in as little as three deep breaths."
• "If we're not making mistakes, if we're not failing, then ultimately we're not really growing because we learn in making these mistakes."

Time Stamps

04:40 - The Only Girl in an All-Boys Team
05:11 - Forming a Girls Team and Being Recruited
07:57 - Mental Challenges and Imposter Syndrome
08:17 - Psyching Out and Overcoming Mental Hurdles
12:41 - Transitioning to Professional Sports and Pressure
15:20 - Identifying with Imposter Syndrome
16:40 - From Professional Athlete to Mindset Coach
20:02 - Breathing as a Fundamental Tool
21:59 - Visualising Success and Overcoming Fear of Failure
29:10 - Using Mental Skills in Personal Life
31:12 - Top Tips for Mindset Management in Sports and Business

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
If you are enjoying this and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In episode 122, host Sue Stockdale explores the delicate balance between commerce and conservation in the world of forestry with guest Roderick Aitken. As a fifth-generation family business in Scotland importing tropical wood, Roddy shares insights on sustainable practices and the collective responsibility we have towards the planet, discusses the importance of protecting precious ecosystems while meeting the demand for exotic woods.

About Roderick Aitken
Roderick has a degree in forest management from The University of Aberdeen. He has spent one year working in Malaysia’s forest and sawmilling sectors, then two years with BSW timber in Scotland.   He joined Gilmour & Aitken in 2005 and is now Operations Director. Roderick is the principal buyer of tropical timbers for Gilmour & Aitken. He has carried out responsible purchasing audit work within West Africa, Far East and Guyana, traveling to these areas regularly. Roderick is a sailor and kayaker in summer, climber and skier in winter and enjoys being outdoors. The more remote and wilder the terrain, the better.

Find out more about Roderick Aitken at the website, and watch the video about Sustainable Forestry

Please complete our short listener survey to give us your feedback about the podcast.

Time Stamps
[01:53] Sustainability in tropical timber industry.
[09:35] Long-term sustainability and traceability.
[14:14] Sustainable tropical logging practices.
[16:03] Hardwood for marine industry.
[22:05] Positive impacts of sustainable forestry.
[27:39] Maintaining supplier relationships.
[34:43] Materials for sustainable construction.

Key Quotes

• “It isn't just always profit maximisation. It's a long-term sustainability goal as well.”
• "I get quite frustrated when people think that they're two different things, economic sustainability and environmental sustainability."
• “In the size of a football field, you're only taking two or three trees. So it's very light touch logging."
• "For every cubic metre of Greenheart arrived in the UK and used on a job, 1.24 tonne of carbon is being stored in the Guyanese forests as it's regrowing."
• “I think that relationship is really important. Supplier and buyer, you both have to be successful for it to work.”
• "Without trust, a lot of the tropical timber operation will fall apart."

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
If you are enjoying this and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In this episode host Sue Stockdale talks to Arild Nydegger Øvre-Eide and Gyrid Dahl, from Øvre-Eide farm in Bergen, Norway. Arild, the fifth-generation owner of a small farm, discusses his decision to become a farmer and how his father's support played a role in his journey. Gyrid who works at the farm explains what motivated her to change career from being a hairdresser to learning how to run a farm. The episode also explores Arild's surprising role as a teacher in a local prison and why tradition is important in communities.

Find out more about Øvre-Eide Farm and on Instagram and Facebook

Key Quotes

• "We have this possibility to keep up the farming absolutely everywhere in Norway."
• "If we want to live off of the farm, we have to diversify."
• "In Norway, we spend a lot of money in our prison system and especially in education."
• "We have some school classes with special need kids that come here once a week to get a break from the classroom."
• "I am very happy when we can share our farm with other people."
• "I have a big hope for the future for the Norwegian farming, but you must try to do something else. You cannot continue on the same track as, for example, your father and grandfather has done."
• "You have to get out of your comfort zone. to achieve bigger things."

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
If you are enjoying this and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee

Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In this guest-hosted episode Clive Steeper from episode 1 talks to engineer, physician, and former astronaut Dr. Robert Thirsk about the preparation and training needed for astronauts to operate effectively on space missions, and how these skills are also relevant for leadership more generally.

Robert reflects on training for astronauts, non-technical skills in space missions, adapting back to life on Earth, providing healthcare on deep space missions, AI-enabled technologies for space exploration, and the benefits of the space programme for society.

About Dr. Robert Thirsk
Dr. Robert Thirsk was born and raised in western Canada. He received degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Calgary and from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Bob also holds a Doctorate of Medicine from McGill University and a Master of Business Administration from the MIT Sloan School of Management.

Bob has flown on two space missions as a member of the Canadian Space Agency’s astronaut corps. He first flew aboard the space shuttle Columbia in 1996 with six international crewmates as part of the Life and Microgravity Spacelab Mission. His second flight in 2009 was a six-month expedition aboard the International Space Station. Bob and his five Station crew mates performed multidisciplinary research, robotic operations and maintenance of spacecraft systems and payloads.

Following his astronaut career, Bob served as a vice-president of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and then as Chancellor of the University of Calgary. He remains in close contact with the Canadian Space Agency, his former employer, to pursue a leadership role for Canada in the delivery of remote health care to astronauts who will someday venture to deep space on daring missions of exploration. 

Find out more about Dr Robert Thirsk via website | Twitter | LinkedIn 

Key Quotes

• "I grew up in a magical time. I grew up in the 1960s."
• "Training is our currency of trade."
• “The difference between a good astronaut and a great astronaut is mastery of those non-technical skills."
• "Failure is not something to be hidden or backed away from. Astronauts embrace failure."
• “As the space age opens up and we have the opportunity to fly a more diverse group of people in space, we need to start flying communicators and artists."
• "I hope that my legacy will be that I brought great benefit to the world. I helped make the world a better place."

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
Sign up for our newsletter | Read our Impact Report

Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra




Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In podcast episode 119, Reanne Olivier, co-founder of Africa Matters Initiative talks to Sue Stockdale about how her first journey to South Africa was sparked by her parents' curiosity and exploration of the continent. This led her to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about Africa, and ultimately shape her passion for making a difference.

By immersing herself in the diverse cultures and communities of Africa, Reanne gained a deeper understanding of the continent and its people, allowing her to build relationships, learn from others, and collaborate to create an initiative that is empowering African youth. 

About Reanne Olivier
Reanne is the co-founder and CEO of Africa Matters Initiative, a youth-led organisation dedicated to empowering and upskilling African youth. As the CEO, she has led successful youth programs promoting transformative leadership and community advancement across 22 African countries. With over a decade of experience in nonprofit program management across Africa, she specialises in designing and developing highly effective learning materials for young people. Reanne previously served as a Program Manager for Princeton in Africa and as the USA Director for Stellenbosch University’s Development & Alumni Relations Office.   

Key Quotes

• "Africa is more than what the Western media was portraying."
• "There's a welcoming nature of the African continent, of African people, that allows you to feel at home, regardless of your race, your gender, your background.”
• "Human beings are literally the same. They're just in different locations. They just speak different languages and they have different colours."
• “We have been able to impact over 6, 000 young people across the continent.”
• “Community for me is really, really important. Again, that's what has moulded me to be the person that I am today.”

Find out more about Africa Matters Inititiave at Website | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
Sign up for our newsletter | Read our Impact Report

Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In episode 118 Sue Stockdale interviews Australian adventurer Kate Leeming. Kate has cycled almost 100,000km completing major journeys around the world. She became the first person to cycle an unbroken line from Africa's most westerly to its most easterly point. Sue explores the motivations behind Kate's adventures and the impact she aims to make through her expeditions. The episode also covers topics such as education for sustainable development, the role of women in community development, and the physical and mental benefits of cycling.

About Kate Leeming
As an explorer/adventurer, Kate has cycled almost 100,000km on her major journeys. She has successfully completed expeditions on all seven continents and attained four world firsts. In 2010 she became the first person to cycle an unbroken line from Africa’s most westerly to its most easterly point - from Senegal to Somalia cycling 22,040km over ten months through twenty countries. For her achievements in exploration, adventure and community work, Kate has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Education degree from The University of Western Australia, a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and the prestigious Spirit of Adventure Award from the Australian Geographic Society.

Connect with Kate Leeming via LinkedIn : Breaking the Cycle Foundation: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter

Time Stamps
[00:01:24] Cycling across Australia.
[00:05:14] Making a difference through exploration.
[00:09:39] Importance of education in poverty.
[00:14:46] Real Tennis - the original game.
[00:22:02] Dealing with support teams.
[00:25:12] Finding funding for filmmaking.
[00:30:29] Trying new things and self-confidence.

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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In episode 117 former guest Dr. Nashater Deu Solheim (episode 49) talks to Sue Stockdale. Sue discusses her experiences as an adventurer and athlete, focusing on her expedition to the Magnetic North Pole. She talks about her initial curiosity and decision to apply for the expedition, as well as the challenges she faced in raising funds and preparing physically and mentally. The conversation also explores themes of building safety within a team, curiosity and resilience.

About Sue Stockdale
Sue Stockdale is an adventurer, coach, author, and TEDx speaker. In 1996, Sue became the first British woman to reach the magnetic North Pole. Sue's travels span over 70 countries, including deserts and polar regions. Beyond adventures, Sue is a sought-after executive coach to CEO’s and leaders. With nine books published, including her memoir "Explore: A Life of Adventure," Sue Stockdale is a true trailblazer.

Connect with Sue Stockdale via website: LinkedIn; Twitter

TimeStamps
[00:01:57] Planning an Arctic expedition.
[00:06:13] Preparation for sponsorship.
[00:06:54] Mental preparation for challenges.
[00:13:19] Unexpected situations and chaos.
[00:17:41] Sticking with difficulty and getting through.
[00:22:11] The importance of psychological contracts.
[00:24:11] Teamwork and camaraderie in battle.
[00:27:13] Vulnerability and authenticity.
[00:31:24] Micro actions in times of crisis.
[00:34:15] Free flow and preparation.

Key Quotes

• "When you voice your far and realize that other people share that fear, suddenly it diminishes."
• "I always think when the unexpected happens, when you're winging it, so to speak, and your heart's racing, it's how you manage your emotions that really makes the difference."
• "I'm a great believer that in the end, we probably don't really wing much in life because we're using our earlier experiences, even if they're not directly relevant or exactly the same, we've built some skillset or confidence or mindset that helps us in these situations that we hadn't planned for."

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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra


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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

This episode explores the concept of sliding doors moments and emphasises the importance of trusting oneself and finding stillness and clarity in life. Host Sue Stockdale interviews singer and entertainer Bruce Parker. They discuss Bruce's love for soul and Motown music, which he grew up with in Inglewood, Los Angeles. Bruce shares his experiences of touring in China and encountering a dangerous situation with the Chinese triads.

About Bruce Parker
Bruce Parker is known as The California Soul Man, and has enthralled audiences around the world, working with legendary music icons such as Chaka Khan, Debbie Harry, and Michael Jackson. Connect with Bruce Parker on LinkedIn.

Key Quotes

• "That was my first real experience of having been on stage, and something touched me at that moment, and realising, wow, there's a gift here."
• "I never graduated. I was just pulled toward this music"
• "We're being treated like royalty. We're given five star hotels. We're being driven around in Mercedes limousines."
• "I was told, you do what Kobayashi say, or nothing your family or your government ever be able to do to find you".
• "We were given everything. It was this incredible situation. But having been told that by Kobayashi, I knew we were really, really in trouble".
• "I call myself a spiritual person. No matter what the situation, The answers are always there"
• "Be still, be quiet, and listen".

Time Stamps
00:00:13 Sliding doors moments shape us.
00:06:01 Following your passion is important.
00:13:02 Trapped in China, no escape.
00:25:32 Negotiation for freedom in China.
00:36:03 Resourcefulness leads to new opportunities.
00:38:26 Listen to your inner voice.


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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale speaks with Georgina Bark, also known as Bo, a dry stone waller. Bo shares her journey of leaving an office job behind to pursue a career outdoors and why she enjoys her work. Bo emphasises that problem-solving is a crucial aspect of her job, both in building walls and repairing them and offers advice to listeners, encouraging them to pursue their passions.

Georgina Bark is based in Gloucestershire and an Advanced Certificate holder and member of the Dry Stone Walling Association.

Key Quotes

• "You can use hammer on Cotswold stone and the sandstones and the limestones, but there's no point trying to hammer a big granite boulder because you won't win that battle."
• "If I come back and drive past in another 10-20 years it should be here unless I've done something catastrophically wrong"
• "It's really satisfying to see people learning, people taking something in. It's nice learning a skill they've maybe never dreamed of doing even and seeing their pride in what they've done at the end of the weekend."
• "The grants for farmers to repair walls are so low that a lot of farm walls go into disrepair and it's a lot cheaper to put a roll of stock netting round."
• "Sometimes you get in a bit of a rut with a few stones and that's maybe the time to walk away, play with the dog, go and have a cup of tea."
• 'I'm always learning, always something different, different sites, different scenery, getting to go all around the country, working with different people sometimes, different stones."

Time Stamps
00:00:20 Traditional craft of dry stone walling.
00:05:08 Dry stone walling is a craft that requires hands-on experience and a keen eye for judging and using the available stone.
00:10:19 Building dry stone walls sustainably.
00:14:40 Opportunities for collaboration in walling.
00:23:11 Problem-solving is crucial in wall building.
00:24:29 Learning and adapting is key.
00:29:30 Follow your passion and do what makes you happy.

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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale interviews Aneela Rose, the founder of PR agency Rose Media Group and world and British powerlifting champion. Aneela shares her journey of embracing a growth mindset and how it transformed her life personally and professionally.

Learn about Aneela's challenges of balancing work, family, and personal interests, the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, and the value of continual learning and collaboration. Aneela also discusses her achievements in powerlifting, how she has overcome barriers and how it inspires her children and family.

About Aneela Rose
Aneela Rose is the multi-award-winning founder of Sussex PR Agency Rose Media Group and World and British Powerlifting Champion. Inspired by her two children, she adopted a growth mindset, which changed her life, both professionally and personally. Her favourite mantra in business is “To achieve what you have never achieved, you must do what you have never done” and in her sport, “People said girls shouldn’t lift weights, I said - watch this.” Amongst the many accolades Aneela and her agency have won are:

• Best B2B PR Consultancy in UK, Success in Business Award, Employer of the year Award, Dynamic Asian Business Woman and Asian Achiever Award.
• Aneela represented Team GB at the World Powerlifting Championships in 2018 and won gold in her class, she won gold again at the ABPU British Championships 2019 and silver at the 2022 British Champs.

Connect with Aneela Rose on Linkedin, Website, Twitter

Key Quotes

• "I learned very early on that if you could control your mind, then you are going to win with yourself."
• "Change the outcome of a situation by approaching it in a different way."
• "Taking a step back and breathing and thinking about the positive element of the task in hand actually can turn things around towards an upward spiral."
• "I was told you're better at the strength training than you are the javelin. I think you need to switch sports."
• "My husband said you can't give up powerlifting because that's who you are and it gives you the mental strength as well as the physical strength to be able to cope with everything else you've got going on in life".

Time Stamps
[00:07:39] B2B PR agency and clients.
[00:11:47] Growth mindset.
[00:16:42] Being a world champion.
[00:21:18] Overcoming hormonal changes in menopause.
[00:23:02] Scheduling and time management.
[00:29:40] Switching sports for success.
[00:32:29] Female Asian powerlifting barriers.
[00:34:50] Age should be no barrier.
[00:38:32] Juggling a busy life.

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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Sue Stockdale previews Series 16 of Access to Inspiration podcast highlighting some of the guests to be featured over the next few weeks - including:

• Georgina Bark, known as Bo shares her passion for dry stone walling. We will also discuss the solo nature of dry stone walling with Bo talking about how she enjoys the sounds of nature while working outside.
• We will also dive into the world of sliding doors moments with singer Bruce Parker. Get ready to be inspired by his incredible unexpected adventure and how he realised the power of listening to your inner voice when you find yourself in a difficult situation.
• And we kick off next week with Aneela Rose, founder of Rose Media Group and a champion powerlifter. Aneela is a force to be reckoned with! Not only is she a successful PR professional, but she's also a World and British powerlifting champion.Tune in to hear how she balances it all and manages her busy life.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Sign up for our newsletter | Read our Impact Report

Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In this episode, Elise Wortley joins Sue Stockdale to discuss her adventure in the Canadian wilderness for the Channel 4 TV show "Alone". She shares her experience being dropped in the middle of nowhere and having to fend for herself in the wild. Elise reflects on the challenges and rewards of immersing herself in nature, including hunting for food and building shelter for the first time. Elise also talks about how reconnecting with nature can have a positive impact on our wellbeing and why she was inspired to start a project to follow in the footsteps of forgotten women adventurers.

About Elise Wortley
Elise Wortley is an adventurer, writer and presenter, on a mission to redefine what it means to be an explorer. Her on-going project, Woman with Altitude, has received widespread media attention and her writing has featured in outlets such as The Guardian and The Telegraph. Elise has presented on primetime BBC TV, is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and recently starred in Channel 4's new adventure series ALONE, becoming runner up in the ultimate test of endurance and ingenuity, in one of the most beautiful but challenging landscapes on earth.

Connect with Elise Wortley on website and Instagram

Key Quotes

• “One of the reasons I did Alone was to become fully immersed in nature and to just leave modern day life behind.”
• “ I decided to take a team of women with me to India because I wanted the trip to show other women that you can go on these adventures.”
• “ I used to see rain as horrible, but now I realise that it has a place in the ecosystem and I know how it feels to get as wet as the plants.”
• “ I learned that when I was in nature in the mountains or anywhere, even the park, I felt so much better.”
• “Nan Shepherd is all about not getting to the top of the mountain and just rushing to summit it, but experiencing it as a whole. The beauty that you can get out of just immersing yourself in nature.”
• “Sitting, doing nothing, we don't really do that in our normal lives.”
• “ I've learned to be a lot calmer because in London, everyone's rushing around.”
• “ I just want to inspire other people to go on adventures and get out there and not necessarily think you have to live by the normal ways.”

Time Stamps
[00:00:22] Alone in the Canadian wilderness.
[00:02:44] Being kind to yourself.
[00:05:02] Managing anxiety.
[00:11:31] Female explorers and empowering women.
[00:14:58] Nan Shepherd and The Living Mountain.
[00:19:18] Mental health and work-life balance.
[00:22:34] Who or what inspires you?
[00:24:04] Women with Altitude.

This series is kindly supported by Squadcast by Descript –the remote recording platform which empowers podcasters by capturing high-quality audio and video conversations.

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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

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Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Host Sue Stockdale interviews Bettina Ovgaard, a versatile professional who has pursued a career by following her curiosity. Bettina shares her experiences working in various industries, including costume design for film, leading tours in the Arctic, and serving as Chief of Civil-Military Cooperation for Joint Arctic Command.

They delve into Bettina's work at the Thule Air Base (now Pituffik Space Base) in Greenland situated near the North Pole, the attraction of the dark season, the challenges and freedoms of remote living, and the unique experiences and personal growth that can come from living in a confined and isolated environment. Finally, Bettina reflects on evolving nature of Greenland, and the importance of networking and building relationships.

About Bettina Ovgaard
Working on and off in Greenland for 25 years, most recently Bettina has been Chief of Civil Military Cooperation at Joint Arctic Command which is the operational branch of the Danish Defense in the Arctic. From Nov 2023 she begins in a new position as Strategic Advisor at the National Defense Technology Center at Aalborg University Campus in Copenhagen.

Connect with Bettina Ovgaard on Facebook and LinkedIn

Key Quotes

• "I find it fascinating that nature is this unforgivable force and makes us very small."
• "The thing about Greenland that I love is the people and nature and how they mix."
• What I really like to do in my professional life is startups. I love to do something from scratch because I can develop it together with other people."
• "For me, variation is the spice of life."
• "Nothing about us, without us, means that Greenland does not want to be exploited. Greenland wants to be a part of what is going on in its future."

Time Stamps
[00:04:05] Fascination with Greenland's culture.
[00:05:07] Choosing a career path.
[00:11:13] Living on Thule Air Base.
[00:13:42] Freedom and confinement in Greenland.
[00:21:44] Civil-military cooperation in Greenland.
[00:28:25] Embracing curiosity and variation.
[00:31:06] Greenland's self-assertion and global role.

This series is kindly supported by Squadcast by Descript –the remote recording platform which empowers podcasters by capturing high-quality audio and video conversations.

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
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Credits:
Sound Editor - Matias de Ezcurra, Producer - Sue Stockdale

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Have you ever come up against rules, procedures, or obstacles that make it incredibly difficult to create change? This week's guest shares some brilliant examples of organisations that have successfully overcome these challenges.

Sue Stockdale interviews Paolo Savaget, Associate Professor at Oxford University, about his work in transforming unjust systems through workarounds and entrepreneurship. He shares inspiring examples of organisations in Zambia and the Netherlands that have successfully created change despite rules and obstacles. Paolo's work centres around finding loopholes and roundabouts within existing systems. He explains how piggybacking on other organisations or aspects of the system can help spread ideas and messages more widely.

Paulo Savaget, author of The Four Workarounds, is an associate professor at Oxford University’s Engineering Sciences Department and the Saïd Business School. He holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge as a Gates Scholar and has a background working as a lecturer, consultant, entrepreneur, and researcher finding innovative solutions for a more inclusive world. As a consultant, he worked on projects for large companies, non-profits, government agencies in Latin America, and the OECD. He currently resides in Oxford, UK.

Connect with Paulo Savaget at Oxford University : Website : LinkedIn

Time Stamps
[00:00:37] Transforming unjust systems through workarounds.
[00:03:58] Potential in overlooked places.
[00:08:05] Hackers and their approach.
[00:11:52] Life-saving medicines in remote areas.
[00:17:12] Loopholes in rules.
[00:19:00] Applying Dutch legislation in Poland.
[00:23:08] Workarounds and empowerment.
[00:26:48] Learning from others and serendipity.

Key Quotes

• "I started seeing more potentiality in places that people only see scarcity."
• "I know very little about computer hackers, but they seem to make change so quickly and resourcefully in very complex computer systems."
• “After studying many cases around the world, addressing different kinds of sustainability problems, I identified the four workarounds that are very unconventional."
• "Most of my research ideas didn't come out of time that I spent just thinking. It's actually from others."
• "Complicated solutions are not very good in complex situations - simple solutions are good in complex situations".

This series is kindly supported by Squadcast by Descript –the remote recording platform which empowers podcasters by capturing high-quality audio and video conversations. Find out more at squadcast.fm

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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In episode 110, host Sue Stockdale interviews Dr Poornima Luthra, an associate professor at Copenhagen Business School. They explore the concept of active allyship and discuss ways to overcome the fear of saying or doing the wrong thing when supporting diversity and inclusion within organizations.

Poornima is the founder and CEO of TalentED Consultancy ApS. Poornima’s work in DEI focuses on expanding the dimensions of diversity we address with an emphasis on intersectionality, empowering individuals to be active allies of inclusion and enabling inclusive leadership.She has been recognised as one of the world’s 30 up-and-coming thinkers whose ideas will make an important impact on management thinking in the future by the prestigious Thinkers50.

Her book ‘The Art of Active Allyship’ was named one of the 10 best management books of 2023 by Thinkers50. Poornima is also the recipient of the Professional Women of Colour Denmark 2021 Impact award, and the national winner (Denmark) in the Trailblazer category of the 2023 Nordic Blaze Inclusion Awards Nordic Blaze Inclusion Awards.She is currently co-authoring her third book in the DEI space titled ‘Leading through Bias’ which will be published in November 2023 with the Danish version of the book being published by the Danish publisher Djøf in 2024.

Connect with Poornima Luthra via her website : LinkedIn : Facebook

Time Stamps
[00:01:09] Squiggly career paths.
[00:03:31] Microaggressions and gender biases.
[00:07:32] Inclusion and diversity interests.
[00:10:32] DEI as a zero-sum game.
[00:13:54] Fear in diversity and inclusion.
[00:18:35] Allyship and its definition.
[00:22:19] Progress in active allyship.
[00:25:47] LGBTQ+ community acceptance.
[00:27:45] Addressing fear and inequality.

Key Quotes

• "I really liked the idea of understanding human beings and the workplace environment."
• "I went to the program director and said, I'd really like to be considered for this role. And he looked at me and said, not until you've got a lot more white hair".
• "Fear is a topic that we really need to put on the table.
• "When we look at diversity as a zero-sum game, that it's one group against another, we actually do more harm."
• "Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood."
• "Allyship is a lifelong process of building supporting relationships with people who are from underrepresented, marginalised, discriminated groups."

This series is kindly supported by Squadcast by Descript –the remote recording platform which empowers podcasters by capturing high-quality audio and video conversations. Find out more at squadcast.fm

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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

Slowing down and engaging in activities that quiet the brain can bring more wonder into our lives. Monica Parker talks to host, Sue Stockdale about how practicing mindfulness and being observant allows us to cultivate a slower thought process, which is essential for experiencing wonder.

Additionally, exposing ourselves to new ideas, new perspectives, and new environments can also stimulate wonder by breaking our routines and allowing our minds to notice novelty. Monica suggests that we don't have to wait for extraordinary moments or visit extraordinary places to experience wonder and awe. Instead, we can find it in the ordinary, in the simple things in our lives.

Appreciating things like sunsets, the beauty of autumn leaves, or small details can bring a smile to our faces and evoke a sense of wonder, and enhance our overall sense of happiness and fulfilment. Overall, the episode highlights the importance of curiosity, both about the world and ourselves, in fostering personal growth and self-acceptance.

About Monica Parker

Monica Parker is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller The Power of Wonder and a world-renowned speaker, writer, and authority on the future of work. Parker has spent decades helping people discover how to lead and live wonderfully. The founder of global human analytics and change consultancy HATCH, whose clients include blue-chip companies such as LinkedIn, Google, Prudential, and LEGO, Parker challenges corporate systems to advocate for more meaningful work lives. In addition to her extensive advocacy work, Parker has been an opera singer, a museum exhibition designer, a policy director, and a homicide investigator defending death row inmates. A lover of the arts, literature, and Mexican food, Parker and her family split their time between Atlanta, London, and Nice. Her wonderbringers include travel, time spent with friends, and live music.

Connect with Monica Parker on her website : LinkedIn : X : Instagram

TimeStamps
[00:03:07] Finding wonder in prison.
[00:06:09] The benefits of wonder.
[00:07:03] Slowing down for wonder.
[00:13:41] The power of mixed emotions.
[00:15:54] The role of inspiration in wonder.
[00:19:38] Redefining the work environment.
[00:21:00] Silver linings in dark times.
[00:24:28] The Power of Wonder.

This series is kindly supported by Squadcast by Descript –the remote recording platform which empowers podcasters by capturing high-quality audio and video conversations. Find out more at squadcast.fm

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
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Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Read our Impact Report and if you would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee


Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In this episode, host Sue Stockdale welcomes Kevin Chapman, co-founder of the Physical Intelligence Institute. Kevin shares his passion for helping people perform at their best by understanding and utilizing the full potential of their bodies. He introduces the concept of physical intelligence and explores how our bodies can impact our confidence and anxiety levels. Through science and practical applications, Kevin empowers listeners to optimise their performance and achieve their desired outcomes.

About Kevin Chapman
Kevin Chapman is a highly experienced coach, consultant, trainer, communication specialist and business leader. As managing director of RADA Business, Kevin built a market-leading performance brand in communication training and leadership impact, growing the business substantially over 5 years. This work included developing pioneering training for women in multiple countries to build confidence and presence at work. Kevin holds a degree in Mathematical Statistics and Operations Research from Exeter University, an MBA and is a qualified coach. He is also a Trustee of the Comedy School and supporter of The Forgiveness Project.

Connect with Kevin Chapman via Website : LinkedIn

Key Quotes

• "You can release serotonin by twisting at the waist."
• "Internal chemistry has a direct impact on our mood."
• "If we create a fist and push that against our hand, we'll actually generate more testosterone in our system and we may feel that we have a higher level of risk tolerance, which may help us to speak up."
• "Doing something like pace breathing over three months, apart from reducing levels of stress, can improve our cognitive function by 62%."

Time Stamps

[00:02:29] Using the body for confidence.
[00:07:39] Embodied training in drama schools.
[00:11:20] Flexibility in adapting communication.
[00:14:06] The world of embodiment.
[00:17:48] Serotonin and gut chemistry.
[00:21:22] Performance practices for virtual meetings.
[00:26:00] Managing stress and burnout.
[00:28:22] Physical Intelligence Institute

This series is kindly supported by Squadcast by Descript –the remote recording platform which empowers podcasters by capturing high-quality audio and video conversations. Find out more at squadcast.fm

Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra 

In episode 107 of the Access to Inspiration podcast, host Sue Stockdale interviews Gary Fildes, an astronomer and the founder of the Keilder Observatory in the UK. Gary's passion for astronomy and his encyclopedic knowledge of the subject have contributed to the success of the observatories he has worked at.

They discuss the distinction between being an astronomer and an astrophysicist and how Gary's interest in astronomy was sparked by childhood experiences with a telescope and seeing the Milky Way. Gary reflects on his journey to making astronomy his career and the challenges he faced in a working-class environment that didn't prioritize science.

About Gary Fildes

Gary Fildes is an outreach astronomer, specialising in public engagement centres in astronomy. Fildes is the Founder and ex - CEO Lead Astronomer of the Kielder Observatory in the UK and is currently lead Astronomer at the Grassholme Observatory which he also founded. An author and with numerous TV and media appearances under his belt. Fildes has firmly established himself as a leading light in the UK astronomy scene. Gary’s experience and knowledge in the development of accessible, exciting and inspiring astronomy centres is unparalleled.

In recognition of Gary’s achievements, he was awarded an honorary MSc degree in Astrophysics from Durham University in 2012. Then in 2017 he was also awarded an honorary degree from the University of Sunderland. He has presented on BBC TV and many radio shows. It is widely acknowledged that these observatories success is due to Gary’s ability to communicate his passion, enthusiasm and encyclopaedic knowledge of astronomy to all who want to listen.

In July 2016, Gary published his first book ‘An Astronomers Tale’ a bricklayers guide to the Galaxy.

Connect with Gary Fildes via Website : Twitter : YouTube : Facebook : LinkedIn

Time Stamps
00:33 Passion for astronomy leads career.
09:09 Passion and determination lead to success.
10:08 Importance of astronomy for society.
14:04 Inspiration and passion through astronomy.
19:09 Preserving dark skies is crucial.
23:26 Passion for astronomy fuels education.
27:53 Passion and enthusiasm are infectious.

Key Quotes

• "Astronomy is the source of everything, the foundation of our understanding of the universe."
• "Astronomy is not just a job for science, but also for philosophy and religion, as it explores the true nature of reality."
• "Astronomy saved my life and gave me purpose. It is a passion that fuels my every day."
• "Dark skies are a human right, and preserving them is essential for our connection to the universe."
• "The observatories I have built are my contribution to inspiring and educating others about the wonders of astronomy."
• "The universe is a vast and interconnected system, from the tiniest particles to the largest galaxies."
• "Stargazing collectively allows us to share our experiences and deepen our understanding of the universe."
• "Astronomy is an accessible, holistic, natural resource that should be embraced by all."
• "The curiosity and passion for astronomy should be nurtured in young minds, as it can inspire future innovators."

This series is kindly supported by Squadcast by Descript –the remote recording platform which empowers podcasters by capturing high-quality audio and video conversations. Find out more at squadcast.fm

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Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra (he/him)
Producer: Sue Stockdale (she/her)

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Host: Sue Stockdale 
Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra