Different Hats Podcast

In this special live episode, we celebrated the launch of The First Widow, the thrilling debut novel by my good friend, author, and accomplished entrepreneur, Rob Starr. Known for his achievements across multiple ventures, including a successful insurance firm and a charitable foundation that has raised over a million pounds for young people, Rob’s story is one of relentless drive and heart.We dove into his journey—from the early days and his father’s profound influence, which led him to establish the Starr Trust, to his impressive athletic feats like swimming the English Channel, conquering Le Mont Ventoux, and his 52×52 Challenge: completing 52 Olympic triathlons in 52 consecutive weeks. Rob’s spirit is truly unstoppable.Rob's novel, The First Widow, introduces us to Kiara Fox, a determined fraud investigator whose life takes a dark turn when a high-profile case crosses her desk. As Kiara uncovers dangerous secrets surrounding a seemingly upstanding businessman’s death, she finds herself pulled into a deadly conspiracy, torn between uncovering the truth and protecting her family. Rob shares the inspiration behind Kiara’s character and the compelling themes of resilience and courage woven into the story.Recorded in front of an amazing live audience, this episode promises a blend of powerful storytelling and inspirational life lessons. Join us as we explore Rob’s remarkable life, his new thriller, and the journey that has shaped him into a powerhouse of passion and purpose.#TheFirstWidow #RobStarr #BookLaunch #Inspiration #Thriller #Entrepreneur #Insurance Watch the Live episode here 🧢 https://youtu.be/nncvoW2xysQListen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Get ready for a transformative episode in our Short Story Series, where we uncover the pivotal moments that have defined some of the most extraordinary journeys from the past six seasons. This time, we’re thrilled to feature the endlessly creative and visionary Toby Moore.Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to craft a TED Talk that resonates with the world? 🗣️With the highly anticipated December event at the Brighton Dome fast approaching—where TED’s very own Chris Anderson will take the stage for an unforgettable evening—we’re bringing you an inspiring story from one of my most thought-provoking guests, my good friend Toby Moore 🚀.After a decade of curating TEDxBrighton, Toby dives deep into the art of creating impactful TED Talks, sharing the secrets behind powerful storytelling and the kind of ideas that deserve a global audience. 💡In this compelling short story, we explore:❌ Toby’s honest and raw relationship with failure📈 The surprising ways we measure success and why it matters🧢 How embracing different roles can unlock new opportunities and experiences🗣️ The real ingredients needed to create a TED Talk that changes minds and livesTune in and let this insightful conversation with Toby Moore ignite your creativity and challenge your perspective.#TEDTalk #CreativityUnleashed #ChangeMakers #IdeasThatInspire #TransformYourWorld 🌍 #StorytellingMasteryWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/E7-1HSRsWuoListen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Welcome to another powerful instalment of our short story series, where we explore the transformative moments that have shaped some of the most remarkable journeys over the past six seasons. In this episode, we are honored to feature the deeply inspiring Chris Goodman."Who am I?"This is the question many of us ask when we feel disconnected from our purpose, and it’s the very question Chris Goodman found himself facing in 2020. After nearly two decades as joint CEO of the highly successful Focus Group, Chris had achieved all his financial dreams. Yet, despite reaching the pinnacle of professional success, he found himself battling depression and struggling with his mental health.Despite his outward achievements, Chris realized that the path to success had come at great personal cost. Two years ago, on World Mental Health Day, we first shared Chris’s story—an open, raw conversation about the true price of success. Today, we revisit this eye-opening episode, one that still resonates deeply.As Chris poignantly writes in his blog, “It’s good to squawk,” he reflects on the moment he realized:"On 6th March 2020, I reached the top of the ladder... only to find it was leaning up against the wrong wall."Chris had followed the script—working hard, building a multi-million-pound business, achieving financial freedom. But in the process, he neglected the most important investment: himself. His story is a powerful reminder that success without self-fulfillment leaves a void that no financial gain can fill.In this episode, Chris shares his deeply personal journey of realizing that wealth and achievement mean little if you haven’t nurtured your own well-being. It’s a lesson that will resonate with many—those who are on their own journey of self-discovery, striving for more than material success. This conversation offers profound insights on the importance of purpose, balance, and mental health in the pursuit of a fulfilling life.Chris is not only an inspirational business leader but also a man committed to making a positive impact. He went on to launch, the Focus Foundation, which aims to connect employees, customers, and industry partners to improve lives. By sharing his story so candidly, Chris is already making that impact.Prepare to be moved and inspired by this episode, just as I was.#MentalHealthMatters #SelfDiscovery #LeadershipJourney #PurposeAndFulfillment #BusinessSuccess #FocusOnMentalHealth #Inspiration #ChrisGoodmanStory #WellbeingInBusiness #SuccessAndSacrifice #FocusFoundation #MentalHealthAwareness #EntrepreneurLife #PersonalGrowth #LifeBeyondSuccessWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/P06EkcrmfGMListen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Welcome to another powerful instalment in our short story series, where we uncover the pivotal moments that have shaped some of the most remarkable journeys over the past six seasons. In this episode, we’re honored to feature the extraordinary Rob Starr.In this deeply moving conversation, Rob shares the incredible origin story of the Starr Trust. After the devastating loss of his father and with his business on the brink of collapse, Rob took out a £20,000 bank loan in a last-ditch effort to save it. But a chance encounter with his father’s window cleaner brought him back to the core values his dad had instilled in him—face your problems head-on and take action.Instead of using the loan to salvage his business, Rob made a bold decision: he gave the money away to help a young adult in need. This selfless act sparked something extraordinary. Donations began to pour in, and with the support of his sister Tracey, the Starr Trust was born—an organization created to honor their father’s legacy by empowering young people. Over the past 16 years, the Starr Trust has raised over a million pounds and supported more than 4,000 young adults, proving that all it takes is for someone to believe in you and offer an opportunity, just as Rob’s father had believed in him.Rob’s journey is a testament to resilience, generosity, and the profound impact of living with purpose. He is truly one of the most inspiring individuals I’ve had the pleasure of hosting on this podcast, and this short story showcases why."Do it NOW—whatever it is in life, do it now!"This is the powerful message Rob leaves us with, and it’s a mantra he continues to live by. Since recording this episode, Rob has released his debut novel, The First Widow, which is available on Amazon and will also be featured at the Different Hats Live Show 'Book Launch' on Monday, October 21st.#StarrTrust #RobStarr #LegacyOfHope #EmpoweringYouth #Resilience #FacingChallenges #DoItNow #InspiringJourneys #GivingBack #ChangingLives #YouthEmpowerment #BuildingCommunity #OvercomingAdversity #PodcastInspiration #DifferentHatsLiveWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/E3OOPEeFNiUListen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthatsThe First Widow Book your ticket for the Book Launch CLICK HEREBuy the Book Here - CLICK HERE Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Welcome to a compelling episode in our short story series, where we dive into the moments that have shaped the most inspiring journeys across six seasons. Today, we feature the extraordinary Vince Pemberton."Don’t take anything for granted."In this brilliant conversation, Vince reflects on his rise to CEO of Rivervale and the journey that started with Eagle Oak Vehicles, the company he and his father built together. Vince shares how the power of genuine connections led to supplying cars for Charlton Athletic Football Club and icons like Alan Curbishley, Gavin Peacock, Tony Cascarino, Teddy Sheringham, and Bradley Walsh—proving that relationships built on integrity can open remarkable doors.Vince’s story embodies the core principle that “people buy people.” In both life and business, when you lead with honesty, trust, and authenticity, you create lasting relationships that fuel growth and success. This ethos has been the driving force behind Rivervale’s success and is a testament to Vince's character.He also reflects on the pivotal support from his father, Alex Pemberton, who grounded him with timeless advice: never take anything for granted. Vince’s tribute is especially poignant, as Alex passed away just weeks after this episode was recorded.Join us for an insightful short story that highlights the true power of connections with the incredible Vince Pemberton.#PowerOfConnections #PeopleBuyPeople #BusinessIntegrity #EntrepreneurialJourney #VincePemberton #RivervaleSuccess #BuildingRelationships #LegacyAndLeadership #FamilyValues #NeverTakeAnythingForGranted #InspiringStories #ShortStorySeries #CEOInsights #BusinessGrowth #PodcastInspirationWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/lAZxDqS02OwListen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Welcome to a deeply moving episode in our short story series, where we explore some of the most transformative moments from the past six seasons. Today’s episode features the remarkable Lyndsey Clay."Whatever you are not changing, you are choosing."In this compelling short story, Lyndsey shares the raw and personal journey of how infertility altered the course of her life – and how, through immense courage, she chose to rewrite her narrative.During World Childless Week, last week Lyndsey opens up about the profound isolation she felt as the only childless friend in her circle, feeling left behind while her peers moved forward. The heartbreak of a marriage ending in divorce by 35 left her feeling alone, with no husband and a shrinking social circle. But in the depths of loneliness, Lyndsey found her turning point.She started her blog, Not The Blueprint, an honest exploration of what it means to defy societal expectations. It became the catalyst for her transformation from feeling like a victim to standing tall as a survivor. Lyndsey didn’t just overcome – she used her experience as a foundation to grow, build, and help others facing similar struggles.This path led to the creation of Connected Brighton, a business designed to foster genuine human connections while supporting the local community. Through her work, Lyndsey reclaimed her confidence, found her purpose, and reignited her passion by building the connections she once craved.Today, she’s not only a successful entrepreneur but an award-winning advocate for community and connection. Recognized as one of Small Business Britain’s Top 100 Female Entrepreneurs, Lyndsey's story is one of resilience, grit, and finding the truest version of yourself through life’s most challenging moments.This episode is a testament to the idea that infertility doesn’t have to signal the end—it can be the beginning of something extraordinary.#InfertilityJourney #RewriteYourStory #Resilience #OvercomingAdversity #Empowerment #ChildlessNotLess #FemaleEntrepreneur #BreakTheNorms #ConnectedBrighton #CommunityMatters #FindYourPurpose #InspiringWomen #NotTheBlueprint #SurvivorStrength #WorldChildlessWeekWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/IZRYRuc7tz8Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Welcome to a transformative instalment of our short story series, where we reflect on some of the most profound moments from the past six seasons of the podcast. Today’s episode features the deeply inspiring Helen Guinness.“80% of the feedback we receive growing up is negative.” ~ Helen GuinnessIn this compelling short story, Helen takes us on a journey through the power of mindset. She unpacks how the limiting beliefs we've carried since childhood often become the barriers between us and our true potential. With clarity and conviction, Helen shows us how to silence that inner critic and reclaim the life we’re meant to live.She reminds us that nothing is impossible – it all comes down to choice. By discovering your purpose, your Ikigai, you can break free from self-imposed limitations, turn dreams into reality, and find lasting happiness.This episode offers just a glimpse of the immense wisdom Helen shares with the world. Tune in to be empowered, and walk away with a toolbox of insights to unlock your potential and create the life you truly deserve.#PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift #OvercomingLimits #FindYourPurpose #Ikigai #LimitlessPotential #Inspiration #DreamBig #PositiveChange #LiveYourBestLife #SelfBelief #Empowerment #TransformYourLife #EntrepreneurMindset #UnlockYourPotentialWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/iDCNdpslWEoListen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 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.Welcome to another powerful installment of our short story series, where we reflect on some of the most impactful moments from the past six seasons of our podcast. Today, in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, we are honored to share a deeply moving episode with the inspirational Daniel Gainsford."For men under 45, suicide is the greatest threat to life in the UK." ~ Daniel GainsfordThe statistics are alarming:84 men die by suicide every week in the UK.Two-thirds of these men had no prior history of reported mental health conditions.In this episode, Daniel bravely opens up about his own experience with loss, having tragically lost a close friend to suicide in 2020. He shares his personal journey and reflects on the devastating impact these statistics have on families and communities.Daniel emphasizes the urgent need for "pre-habilitation"—a proactive approach to mental health that focuses on mental fitness, much like we do with physical fitness. By talking openly and working on our mental resilience before crisis hits, we can work toward reducing these heartbreaking numbers and saving lives.This conversation is a call to action. Join us as Daniel shines a light on the importance of early intervention, mental fitness, and the vital role we all play in suicide prevention.This is more than a podcast episode—it's a powerful reminder of why mental health matters and the need for us to support one another.#MentalHealthMatters #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #Resilience #SuicidePrevention #MentalFitness #LifeLessons #PodcastSeriesWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/CUkKnbLlAnMListen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 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