In this deep, thoughtful conversation, I am joined by entrepreneur, technologist and systems-thinker Neil Witten to explore what success really means, and why so many of us feel disconnected from the lives we’re building.
Neil has spent years questioning the systems we’re told to follow in education, work, entrepreneurship and culture, and asking a more human question instead:
“What am I uniquely designed to do?”
Together, Neil and I explore:
This is not a conversation about hacks or shortcuts.
It’s about listening to your gut, working on yourself, and choosing alignment over approval.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re climbing the wrong ladder…
If you’ve questioned the systems you’ve inherited…
Or if you’re quietly asking “Is this really it?” .. this episode is for you.
00:00 – Introduction
03:30 – Why we struggle to talk honestly (especially men)
10:45 – How culture hijacked our definition of success
18:40 – Purpose, play & being wired for something
30:15 – Education, neurodiversity & one-size-fits-all systems
42:10 – Soft skills, hiring & the future of work
55:30 – Childhood, curiosity & learning outside the system
1:10:45 – Entrepreneurship, risk & waiting for permission
1:28:20 – Parenting, autonomy & enabling potential
1:45:10 – Creating your own catalysts for change
2:02:30 – Letting go, evolution & redefining your role
2:18:40 – Final reflections: living true to yourself
🎧 LISTEN TO MORE DIFFERENT HATS EPISODES:
👉 https://www.different-hats.co.uk/podcast
🔗 Connect with Neil Witten
Website: https://www.pigsinflight.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilwitten/
💡 If this episode resonated with you, please like, share, and comment below.
Your support helps us change the narrative around success and mental health.
Rivervale – https://www.rivervale.co.uk
Brown Bear Studios – https://www.brownbearstudio.co.uk
Carpenter Box – https://www.carpenterbox.com
🎙️ PRODUCED BY:
H2 Productions – https://h2productions.co.uk
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