Different Hats Podcast

“Doing everything is hard. Doing nothing is hard. So choose your hard.” – Tom GeorgeAt just 12 years old, Tom George launched his first business with a stack of flyers and a borrowed lawnmower. By 27, he had paid off his parents’ mortgage.In this raw, inspiring and deeply honest episode of the Different Hats Podcast, Tom shares his journey from a turbulent childhood, through early entrepreneurship, to becoming the director of multiple businesses, all driven by grit, purpose, and the desire to create a better life for those around him.This is not just a story about money, it’s about mindset, resilience, leadership, legacy, and redefining success on your own terms. If you’ve ever felt stuck, doubted your path, or wondered if it’s too late (or too early) to start something, this conversation is for you.🧠 You’ll learn:How childhood adversity shaped his mindsetWhy he values attitude over education when hiringThe truth behind hustle culture and burnoutThe importance of emotional presence in leadershipWhat really drives long-term fulfilment and success💥 Hit subscribe for more inspiring conversations that challenge the definition of success. https://www.different-hats.co.uk/podcast🔑 EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:00 – Introduction01:18 – “You can have 1,000 problems… until your health goes”04:57 – How Tom defines success (and why it’s not about money)07:49 – Self-awareness, presence, and growing into purpose13:45 – What Tom looks for when hiring young people20:14 – Tom’s childhood, family trauma, and gaining weight as an emotional outlet31:27 – Leaving the Jehovah’s Witness faith and its aftermath33:19 – How one business card changed Tom’s life38:26 – The £6k summer at 12 years old that ignited his entrepreneurial fire47:01 – Taking risks, changing lanes, and choosing your hard54:53 – From ego-driven choices to purposeful business moves59:56 – Hustle culture: mindset, mental health, and balance1:08:04 – Why living in the present matters more than chasing the future1:10:44 – Money vs Meaning: what truly drives Tom1:24:05 – Dealing with business volatility and emotional resilience1:31:09 – Relationships, insecurity, and proving you’re enough1:41:53 – Tom’s Advice to Young Entrepreneurs1:56:05 – Final Reflections: Dream Big, Start Now✨ SPONSORED BY:🔎 Search Seven – Search marketing with purpose: www.searchseven.co.uk🇬🇷 Nostos Hove – An authentic Greek experience: www.nostos-hove.co.uk🚗 Rivervale – Motoring made manageable: www.rivervale.co.ukPlus X - Empowering bold thinkers at every stage: https://www.plusxinnovation.com/🔔 Subscribe, comment, and join the journey to redefine success through real, human stories.✨ PRODUCED BY: H2 Productions: https://h2productions.co.uk/

In this deeply honest and empowering episode with the brilliant Marina Lazaris, we dive into how modern men (and women) can reconnect with authentic love, real confidence, and emotional success, beyond the fake measures of status, wealth, or appearance.This is a powerful conversation about redefining masculinity, rewriting success, and reconnecting with who we really are. Full of raw insights, practical tips, and hope for the next generation.If you're a man feeling stuck, isolated, or unsure where to begin, this episode is for you.If you're raising sons, working with men, or simply care about building a better future, this episode is for you.👇 Chapters and Timestamps 👇00:00 - Introduction01:06 - The power of love stories: Creating a lasting foundation06:58 - Teaching men how to confidently approach women again10:00 - Chivalry, respect, and bringing back genuine kindness18:00 - How fear of rejection and shame are holding men back27:00 - Building real self-worth without wealth or status36:00 - Understanding emotions: anger, sadness, joy as gifts44:00 - The inner critic vs. inner champion: Rewriting your story53:00 - Why community and connection are the real success metrics1:02:00 - The loneliness epidemic: Shocking statistics on single men1:10:00 - Finding purpose, passion, and your authentic self1:18:00 - Healing masculine and feminine wounds in relationships1:30:00 - How slowing down actually speeds up your success1:40:00 - Practical daily habits for building confidence and self-love1:50:00 - Service, gratitude, and the secret to a fulfilled life1:55:00 - Final thoughts: Hope for the next generation of men✅ If you found value in this episode:Like Subscribe Share Comment 📚 Grab Marina Lazaris book https://www.amazon.co.uk/MEN-NEED-LOVE-Too-RELATIONSHIPS/🌐 Connect with us: https://www.different-hats.co.uk🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://www.different-hats.co.uk/podcastSpecial 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 everything you thought success looked like... wasn't the thing at all?In this emotional, wise, and deeply human episode, I sit down with Norman Mayhew, entrepreneur, mentor, and founder of The Sussex Sign Company, for a conversation that is as raw as it is inspiring.From growing up in poverty and dealing with childhood trauma, to building a million-pound business and learning how to define “enough,” Norman’s story is a moving reminder that the most valuable things in life often aren’t things at all.💬 Norman opens up about:Growing up with violence, shame, and the tally man at the doorHis fight to break the cycle for his kids — and the cost that came with itWhy dignity in work matters more than what’s in the bankThe lessons learned from 30 years in business and 60+ years in lifeThe moment he realised that love is the only thing that really countsThis isn’t a business podcast. This is a conversation about being human.👉 Whether you’re a founder, leader, parent, or someone just trying to hold it all together, this one will move you, shake you, and maybe even help you breathe a little deeper.📍 Key Chapters:00:00 – Introduction04:34 – Redefining Success After 30 Years16:19 – Childhood Trauma & the Drive to Break the Cycle21:26 – The Regrets of Working Too Much29:29 – The School System is Broken34:35 – All They Wanted Was Time43:03 – Dignity in Work: A Brother’s Story55:38 – Building the Sussex Sign Company From Scratch1:10:22 – Leadership, Loyalty & Lifelong Lessons1:47:11 – Final Reflections📲 Follow, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.🎥 WATCH NOW on YouTube: 🎧 LISTEN on Spotify/Apple Podcasts: https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial 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#DifferentHatsPodcast #NormanMayhew #RedefiningSuccess #Entrepreneurship #MentalHealthAwareness #Legacy #Love #Storytelling #Leadership #DignityInWork #Purpose #YouAlrightMate #BusinessWithHeart

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the Different Hats Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Susanna Petche, a GP, trauma specialist, and CPTSD survivor, for one of the most open, vulnerable, and important conversations I’ve ever had on the show.Susanna shares her lived experience of sexual trauma, misdiagnosis, and the long road to healing. We talk honestly about what it means to be trauma-informed, in healthcare, education, workplaces, and in our day-to-day lives, and why reframing success starts with emotional safety.🔍 In this episode, we explore:The hidden epidemic of trauma and CPTSDHow trauma shows up in the body and mindWhy vulnerability is a strength, not a weaknessEmotional intelligence and the future of educationLetting go of old success stories and rewriting new onesHow healing can begin — even after decades of silence🎧 Whether you’re a parent, a leader, an educator, or simply someone on your own healing journey, this episode is full of insight, honesty, and, most importantly—hope.✨ "Healing is possible for everyone." – Dr. Susanna PetcheKey Chapters: 00:00 – Intro 03:52 – What Success Used to Mean (And Why It Changed)06:26 – The Diagnosis That Changed Everything11:33 – Why Vulnerability Feels So Hard (Especially in the UK)15:19 – Is the Education System Emotionally Broken?22:29 – Ambition After Trauma: Still Striving, But Differently39:15 – The Body Keeps the Score: Trauma in the Medical System46:34 – The Need to Teach Boys, Not Just Protect Girls54:12 – The Corrosive Power of Shame1:37:33 – Final Message: Healing Is Possible for Everyone —🌐 Learn more and listen at https://www.different-hats.co.uk/podcast#TraumaInformed #MentalHealthAwareness #CPTSD #HealingJourney #IWD2025 #RedefiningSuccess #DifferentHatsPodcast #VulnerabilityIsStrengthAbout Dr Susanna PetcheDr. Susanna Petche is a GP, innovator, CPTSD survivor, and samba reggae drummer with over 23 years of clinical experience. She specialises in psychological trauma and its impact on the mind, body, and spirit. Susanna is on a mission to raise awareness of psychological trauma and help create a more compassionate, trauma-informed world.To contact Dr Susanna Petche or find out more click here - https://www.trauma-sense.com/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 profoundly moving episode of the Different Hats Podcast, I sit down with my dear friend and storytelling collaborator, Terry Bower, for a conversation that will stay with you long after the final word is spoken.Terry isn’t just a storyteller—he’s a soul who has lived through unimaginable loss, and yet radiates empathy, humour, and wisdom. In this raw and emotionally honest exchange, Terry opens up for the first time about the heartbreaking moment he overheard his mum say, “I’m not ready to die.” He shares the pain of losing all six of his siblings and both parents by the age of 50, and how those experiences have shaped the man he is today.From becoming a master of building relationships in business to learning how to process emotions later in life, Terry’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.We talk grief, therapy, emotional expression, legacy, business, and what it truly means to "be more dog"—to wake up with joy, go to bed with peace, and live each day with purpose. Terry’s warmth and wit shine through as he reflects on what he’s learned, how he’s healing, and why true connection is the ultimate success.Key Topics:Redefining success through simplicity and peace of mindProcessing grief after losing family membersEmotional resilience and embracing vulnerabilityThe power of storytelling in life and businessCreating safe spaces for honest conversationsLegacy, love, and learning to let goThis is not just another podcast episode—this is an invitation to feel, reflect, and connect.🎧 Listen now and be part of the movement to redefine success, one story at a time.https://www.different-hats.co.uk/podcast 👇 Timestamps & Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction04:45 – Losing his sister Jill and the power of grief10:17 – The COVID epiphany: letting go of control26:50 – The moment he heard his mother’s final words40:25 – Therapy, emotional processing & storytelling50:56 – Grieving all six siblings & what it taught him1:09:52 – Legacy, gratitude, and choosing joy daily1:27:57 – The power of human connection in business💛 If this episode resonates with you, please like, comment, share, and subscribe. Your story matters. Let’s rewrite the narrative together.#DifferentHatsPodcast #TerryBower #GriefAndLoss #RedefiningSuccess #StorytellingForBusiness #EmotionalWellbeing #MentalHealthAwareness #LifeLessons #Legacy #HumanConnection #PodcastInterview #SuccessRewrittenSpecial 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 the very definition of success you’ve been chasing isn’t really yours?In this raw, powerful episode, Sam sits down with Kevan Smith — storyteller, creative strategist, and co-founder of Brighton United — to explore how grit, resilience, and community can transform how we live, work, and lead.From growing up on a self-sufficient farm in rural Arkansas to building an award-winning creative business in the UK, Kevan’s story is one of deep reflection, unfiltered truth, and radical self-discovery. But it’s also a story about race, isolation, and what it truly means to belong.💬 Kevan opens up about:The 3 stages of success and why most people get stuck at stage oneHis experiences with racism and exclusion in the UK business worldWhy storytelling is a revolutionary act — and how it helped him find his voiceThe birth of Brighton United and the call to create inclusive, diverse spaces where everyone belongsHis TEDx journey and mission to help people build connection through shared valuesWhether you’re a founder, a leader, a parent, or simply someone trying to find your way in a noisy world — this conversation will stay with you.👉 Don’t just listen. Feel it. Share it. Let it challenge your perspective.📍 Timestamps & Chapters available in the description 📲 Follow, like & subscribe for more stories that redefine success.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple & all major platforms.https://www.different-hats.co.uk/podcast#DifferentHatsPodcast #RedefiningSuccess #BrightonUnited #StorytellingForChange #YouAlrightMate #MentalHealthAwareness #DiversityAndInclusion #Entrepreneurship #TEDx #Belonging #BlackVoices #Grit #Purpose #StorytellingKEY CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro05:34 - Community, Belonging & Brighton 05:47 - Kevan’s Three Stages of Success 09:05 - Values, Fulfilment & Regret 11:17 - Rediscovering Grit & Embracing Struggle 16:03 - Self-Discovery vs. Societal Expectations 20:34 - Childhood on the Farm in Arkansas 25:18 - The Power of Reframing Work 28:54 - From Science to Storytelling 33:55 - Saying Yes to Opportunity: The NSYNC Story 38:14 - Film, Creativity & Finding Purpose 43:52 - The Power of Story to Connect 49:34 - Brighton United: Where It All Began 52:09 - Challenging the Status Quo 01:03:30 - Experiences of Racism & Belonging 01:17:12 - Building a More Inclusive Future 01:24:21 - A Blueprint for Change 01:34:00 - Relationships Over Ego 01:39:46 - Final Thoughts, Gratitude & Growth 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 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