Different Hats Podcast

What if redefining success starts with showing up for yourself first?In this powerful and deeply personal episode, I sit down with the incredible Sophie Bryan – workplace culture specialist, TEDx speaker, burlesque performer, sex conversationalist, and unfiltered truth-teller – to unpack a life shaped by trauma, resilience, and radical self-discovery.From surviving childhood illness and navigating a complex family dynamic to breaking cycles of poverty, Sophie shares how her drive for financial independence led her to question not just what success looks like, but how it feels. We explore why Montessori education shaped her approach to parenting and leadership, and how freedom, curiosity and play have become her personal pillars for living and working.Sophie opens up about her journey with body dysmorphia, how she transformed shame into self-expression through burlesque, and how her work in sex and soul coaching is helping individuals and couples reconnect with intimacy, desire, and communication.We also dive into:Why workplace culture must change before the education system canThe crucial link between sexuality, leadership and creative flowHow to challenge taboos and empower our kids (and ourselves) to talk about sex differentlyThe power of forgiveness, legacy, and owning your storySophie wears a lot of hats (possibly more than me) – but every one is rooted in authenticity, truth, and a mission to create a world where people feel safe to live in alignment with who they really are.This episode is honest, inspiring, and full of brave conversations we all need to be having.Key Chapters:00:00 - Introduction05:20 - A Childhood Shaped by Trauma11:00 - Rewriting the Script: From Survivor to Achiever14:30 - PTSD, Alcoholism & Compassion for Her Father19:30 - Healing Through Storytelling and Eulogy24:00 - Values That Guide Sophie's Life29:30 - Discovering Montessori & Parenting Differently35:20 - Raising an Independent Daughter40:30 - Why Workplaces Are Failing Us46:30 - Creating Freedom in the Workplace53:00 - Aligning Work Culture with Human Needs01:01:00 - Exposing Broken Systems & Flipping Leadership01:10:00 - From Body Dysmorphia to Burlesque01:24:00 - Sex, Shame & Communication in Relationships01:48:00 - Final Reflections on Self-Love and Legacy 🎥 WATCH NOW on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cNRMczhuGm8🎧 LISTEN on Spotify/Apple Podcasts: https://linktr.ee/differenthatsHit play. This one will stay with you. 🚀Special Thanks to Our SponsorsSearch Seven: https://www.searchseven.co.ukPlus X: https://www.plusxinnovation.comNostos Hove: https://www.nostos-hove.co.ukRivervale: https://www.rivervale.co.ukProduced By:H2 Productions Ltd – https://h2productions.co.uk

What if you could live a life with no regrets? What if success wasn’t measured by money, fame, or external validation, but by how present you are in each moment?In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Yaron Engler returns to the Different Hats Podcast for the first time as a two-time guest, and it’s nothing short of transformational.🔥 We dive deep into:✅ Defining Success on Your Own Terms – Is it wealth, status, or simply living true to yourself?✅ Being Fully Present in a Distracted World – The simple yet profound tools to bring yourself back to NOW.✅ Navigating Life’s Transitions – What do you do when everything is about to change?✅ Overcoming Fear & Embracing Love – The mindset shift that changes everything.✅ Masculinity, Purpose & The Power of Honest Conversations – Why men struggle, and how we can redefine strength.Yaron's raw honesty, wisdom, and energy shine through in every moment. Whether you’re at a crossroads, searching for clarity, or just need an injection of inspiration—this episode WILL hit home.💡 “Am I guided by fear or am I guided by love?”This is more than a podcast—it’s a wake-up call.Key Chapters:00:00 - Intro02:25 - Our Mission: Redefining Success  05:07 - Vulnerability Sparks Transformation  05:59 - Defining Success: Living Without Regret  08:18 - The Power of Presence: Body, Breath & Tools  12:21 - Finding Joy in Simple Moments  15:22 - Living Your Truth: Authentic Growth 22:06 - New Beginnings: Following Your Purpose  29:43 - Fear vs. Love: What Truly Drives You?  33:03 - The Financial Pressure vs. Passion Dilemma  40:04 - This Too Shall Pass: Overcoming Struggles  46:47 - Balancing Passion, Career & Family Life  52:28 - Showing Our Kids What’s Possible  58:56 - The Men's Circle: Common Challenges Men Face 1:06:03 - Finding Purpose: A Journey Within  1:14:51 - Have Men Lost Their Role in Society?  1:19:19 - What’s Really Driving You? Ego vs. Truth  1:23:57 - The Ripple Effect of Living Your Truth  1:27:09 - Final Advice: Making Life’s Big Decisions 🎥 WATCH NOW on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cNRMczhuGm8🎧 LISTEN on Spotify/Apple Podcasts: https://linktr.ee/differenthatsHit play. This one will stay with you. 🚀Special Thanks to Our SponsorsSearch Seven: https://www.searchseven.co.ukPlus X: https://www.plusxinnovation.comNostos Hove: https://www.nostos-hove.co.ukRivervale: https://www.rivervale.co.ukProduced By:H2 Productions Ltd – https://h2productions.co.uk

In this incredibly raw and uplifting conversation, our guest Michelle Barrett pulls back the curtain on her remarkable journey—from a turbulent childhood marked by trauma and uncertainty to forging a thriving career in TV costume design, and ultimately finding true fulfilment as a personal stylist and YouTube creator.Michelle shares candid details of growing up with an alcoholic parent, navigating the challenges of single motherhood, and scraping together every opportunity (even famously “blagging” her way into exclusive parties!) to follow her creative passions. She reveals how recognising her own worth, trusting her intuition, and pursuing freedom over perfection led her to a booming online community and a successful YouTube channel with tens of thousands of subscribers.Along the way, Michelle and Sam discuss the power of small acts of kindness, the importance of asking for help, and how building genuine human connection can transform lives. If you’ve ever wondered how to pivot your career, find value in your gifts, or simply believe in yourself when times get tough—this episode is for you.Key Chapters:00:00 - “Don’t Give Up” 03:03 - Defining Success 08:15 - Childhood Trauma 14:50 - Independence at 18 20:30 - Early TV & Blagging 28:10 - Single Parenthood 37:45 - Small Acts of Kindness 45:55 - Breaking with TV 52:25 - Transition to YouTube 59:40 - Struggles & Belief 1:08:00 - Asking for Help 1:16:00 - Life Beyond TV 1:24:00 - Early Content Creation 1:32:00 - Tackling Negativity 1:46:45 - Final ReflectionsHit that Subscribe button and join us on this inspiring journey of resilience, hope, and reimagining success. Remember: "don’t give up, because anything is possible"!Watch Now / Listen on All Podcast Platforms:https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSubscribe to the Newsletter:https://www.different-hats.co.ukSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsSearch Seven: https://www.searchseven.co.ukPlus X: https://www.plusxinnovation.comNostos Hove: https://www.nostos-hove.co.ukRivervale: https://www.rivervale.co.ukProduced By:H2 Productions Ltd – https://h2productions.co.uk

Ready to redefine success from the inside out? In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the transformative power of self-love, intuition, and leading with soul—all while navigating an ever-evolving, AI-driven world. Our special guest, author of Balance and Leading with Soul, Marina Fernández Julian shares how losing a dear friend—and nearly losing herself—sparked a profound journey toward inner freedom and authentic living. Discover why true fulfilment isn’t tied to accolades or material wealth, but rather to embracing vulnerability, honouring your intuition, and cultivating genuine connections with those who truly celebrate your growth.Tune in to learn why your greatest asset is your own capacity to love, heal, and lead—especially when the world around you is changing fast. Whether you’re a parent, business owner, or just seeking deeper purpose, this episode offers a blueprint to living more fully and leading more powerfully than ever before.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more inspiring conversations on harnessing your inner strength, cultivating empathy, and finding fulfilment in every facet of life. Join us on this journey to unlock a more authentic, compassionate, and truly successful way of being.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your definition of success!About our GuestMarina Zest for LifeYour Journey Towards Self-Leadership,Professional Growth & Richer Life Experiences.Marina  believes that self-awareness is the cornerstone of an enriching life. She guides her clients toward personal fulfilment, professional growth, and richer life experiences.Check out her website https://marinazestforlife.com/  Email: marinazestforlife@gmail.comBooks: https://marinazestforlife.com/leading-with-soul/ https://marinazestforlife.com/balance-living-a-life-true-to-yourself/Watch Now / Listen on All Podcast Platforms:https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSubscribe to the Newsletter:https://www.different-hats.co.ukSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsSearch Seven: https://www.searchseven.co.ukPlus X: https://www.plusxinnovation.comNostos Hove: https://www.nostos-hove.co.ukRivervale: https://www.rivervale.co.ukProduced By:H2 Productions Ltd – https://h2productions.co.uk

Ready to discover what it really takes to bring a game-changing idea to life—especially one that transforms an entire community’s relationship with the sea? In this episode, I sit down with Ross Gilbert, the visionary behind Brighton’s iconic Sea Lanes. From wrestling with never-ending planning hurdles (hello, storm drains!) to managing the pressure of big builds and bigger budgets, Ross shares an unfiltered look at the resilience and teamwork needed to keep a massive project afloat. We dive into the power of sport and mindset—why his background in golf taught him to embrace failure and stay patient with every twist. If you’ve ever dreamed of carving your own path and building something truly special, Ross’s story is pure inspiration. Grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into one of the most fascinating entrepreneurial journeys on the Brighton coast!Highlights:How Ross juggled planning nightmares and unexpected challenges (like a historic railway running through the site)Why embracing “small steps” and daily progress is vital for any long-term projectThe power of having a tight-knit team: when one person’s down, another steps upLessons from golf on dealing with failure and bouncing back fastRoss’s unique lifestyle balance—splitting time between Germany and the Brighton seasideTune in for a candid, behind-the-scenes chat about creating something truly groundbreaking for the local community. Don’t forget to subscribe, drop a comment, and hit that “like” button if Ross’s journey inspires your next big move!Key Chapters:00:00 - Introduction04:13 – Early Love of Sport & Golf16:30 – Discovering Property & the Entrepreneurial Bug31:00 – Pop-Up Bar & Silent Yoga Disco37:45 – Overcoming Site Logistics: Volks Railway & Storm Drains45:00 – Lost Days & Squeaky Cash Flow53:00 – Sea Lanes Grand Opening1:10:00 – Redefining Success & Final Life Lesson. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your definition of success!Watch Now / Listen on All Podcast Platforms:https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSubscribe to the Newsletter:https://www.different-hats.co.ukSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsSearch Seven: https://www.searchseven.co.ukPlus X: https://www.plusxinnovation.comNostos Hove: https://www.nostos-hove.co.ukRivervale: https://www.rivervale.co.ukProduced By:H2 Productions Ltd – https://h2productions.co.uk

Ready to see success in a whole new light? In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Gary Salters—founder of “Go Succeed”—whose energy and insights will flip your idea of “making it” on its head. From his early days working at McDonald’s (and loving every moment of it!) to coaching small businesses through powerful processes, Gary proves that success is so much more than money and status. We talk about how growing up in Northern Ireland during the Troubles shaped his open-minded attitude, why authentic values make or break your business, and how time is our most precious commodity. If you’ve ever felt stuck chasing the wrong goals, Gary’s perspective will give you the clarity and motivation to start moving forward. Grab a notepad and let’s redefine success—on your terms.Highlights:Gary’s journey from McDonald’s star to corporate leader, and the leap into entrepreneurshipWhy creating a killer process (yes, even in a tiny startup) can transform your resultsGrowing up in Northern Ireland during the Troubles—and how it shaped Gary’s view on acceptance and inclusionThe real reason time is worth more than any paycheckSimple strategies to build client relationships without feeling salesyDon’t miss this honest, inspiring conversation that’ll help you see business (and life) differently. Hit that “Like” button, subscribe, and drop your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your definition of success!Watch Now / Listen on All Podcast Platforms:https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSubscribe to the Newsletter:https://www.different-hats.co.ukSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsSearch Seven: https://www.searchseven.co.ukPlus X: https://www.plusxinnovation.comNostos Hove: https://www.nostos-hove.co.ukRivervale: https://www.rivervale.co.ukProduced By:H2 Productions Ltd – https://h2productions.co.uk

⚠️ Warning ⚠️ This episode contains content that may be alarming to some listeners. We do talk about suicide which we know can be distressing.Ready to redefine what “success” really means? In this riveting episode of The Different Hats Podcast, we sit down with entrepreneur Michael Yeoman, who’s built an award-winning distillery from discarded English wine grapes and pioneered a thriving solar energy business—while navigating personal tragedy, financial downturns, and unexpected career twists.Discover how Michael’s childhood struggles, near-health scares, and a passion ignited by the Burning Man festival led him to embrace sustainability and innovation in everything he does. From turning press waste into premium spirits to installing solar panels that power homes and businesses, Michael shares the highs and lows of entrepreneurship—and how failure can be your greatest teacher.In This Episode, Learn About:Overcoming setbacks (including three redundancies!)Building a socially responsible brand—renewable energy to eco-distillingMaintaining mental wellbeing through stress and uncertaintyStriking real work-life balance across multiple venturesIf you’ve ever wondered how to flip adversity into opportunity, don’t miss this conversation. Hit play to hear Michael’s incredible journey and get inspired to redefine success on your own terms!Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your definition of success!Watch Now / Listen on All Podcast Platforms:https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSubscribe to the Newsletter:https://www.different-hats.co.ukSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsSearch Seven: https://www.searchseven.co.ukPlus X: https://www.plusxinnovation.comNostos Hove: https://www.nostos-hove.co.ukRivervale: https://www.rivervale.co.ukProduced By:H2 Productions Ltd – https://h2productions.co.uk*If you have been affected by any of the content during this interview you can reach out to any of the below:Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.orgMy Black Dog - https://www.myblackdog.co/mental-health-charity

Welcome to the 100th episode of my Different Hats Podcast! In this milestone conversation, I open up about my personal journey to redefine success—beyond wealth, fame, and social status. I share the stark realities of how traditional “success” metrics can weigh heavily on our mental health, including the fact that nearly 60% of suicides are tied to financial or economic pressures.At one point, I truly believed success was measured by money. When I fell short of the financial milestones I had set for myself, I spiraled into self-doubt and despair, feeling as though I’d let my family down. But through my own struggles—and the powerful insights from 99 prior interviews with entrepreneurs, Olympians, multimillionaires, athletes, local business owners, and authors—I discovered a new path forward.In this episode, you’ll hear the transformative lessons I’ve learned, showing how meaningful relationships, authenticity, and well-being can guide us toward deeper, more genuine fulfillment. We’ll explore why valuing presence over productivity, inner peace over income, and love over luxury can reshape both our goals and our mental health.If you’ve ever questioned whether traditional measures of achievement truly serve you, I hope this heartfelt episode inspires you to challenge the status quo and define success on your own terms—in ways that nourish your life rather than drain it.Key Topics:My journey from financial failure to a more fulfilling definition of successHow societal pressures and mental health struggles can be intertwinedFostering meaningful relationships, growth, and a sense of purposeEmbracing authenticity, presence, and small daily joysThank you for joining me on this 100th episode celebration! I can’t wait for you to hear these stories and be part of a movement that values compassion and genuine connection above all else.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your own definition of success—I’d love to hear your thoughts!Watch NowYOUTUBE EPISODEListen on All Podcast PlatformsPODCAST LINKSubscribe to My NewsletterCLICK HERESpecial Thanks to The Creative Team Behind the 100th EpisodeJamarl BillyKevan SmithHowie McConnellGareth KempMary KempSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsSearch SevenPlus XRubix VTRivervaleProduced ByH2 Productions Ltd

As we launch Series 7 of the podcast, we sit down with Laura Hearn—a journalist, mental health advocate, truly incredible storyteller and host of the Flip It podcast. Laura’s journey is one of profound resilience: she navigated an eating disorder, family tragedy, and heartbreak that upended her life. Yet, instead of giving up, Laura found a way to “flip” every struggle into a source of growth and self-discovery.From losing her beloved stepfather to facing an earth-shattering breakup and walking away from a 17-year career at the BBC, Laura shares how she learned to embrace vulnerability, harness the healing power of nature, and find gratitude—even in the darkest moments. Join us for a deeply heartfelt conversation about redefining success, being true to oneself, and living with an open heart.Key TakeawaysFlipping the Script: Turning negative experiences into catalysts for positive change.Healing & Hope: How therapy, gratitude, and community saved Laura from her darkest hours.Redefining Success: It’s not about money or titles, but about contribution, connection, and authenticity.Mental Health & Workplace: Laura’s insights on overcoming stigma and championing real stories.Watch NowYouTube EpisodeListen on All Podcast PlatformsPodcast LinkConnect with Laura HearnLaura on LinkedInFlip It PodcastSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsRivervalePlus XRubix VTNostos HoveProduced ByH2 Productions LtdIf you find hope or inspiration in Laura’s story, pleaseLike & Subscribe for more powerful conversationsComment your biggest takeawayShare this episode with someone who needs a little extra light today#MentalHealth #SelfDiscovery #DifferentHats #Podcast #Series7 #Episode99 #Inspiration #EatingDisorders #Resilience #FlipIt