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Bonus Episode #E24/24 The World needs changing and we have the power to change it | Donna Holland
My guest this week is CEO of Rockinghorse Children's Charity, Donna Holland. Donna is responsible for the smooth running of Rockinghorse: ensuring that the strategy and plans meet the needs of children, young people and their families, and for ensuring that the charity can continue to support sick and disabled children across Sussex in the future. She has been in the charity sector for two decades working with a number of large and small charities and playing her part in having an impact and making a real difference.
This was the final episode of the 24 hour podcast and I could think of a better way to finish than with the CEO of the charity the event was raising money for. It was such an honour to interview Donna for the final episode. We talked about life growing up and her intrinsic desire to have a career with purpose and to really make a difference. She shared stories of her various roles within the charity sector working for large national charities including the 'Missing People' and how she was on call as the media person when Madeline McCann went missing. We delve into what life was like running a charity during a global pandemic and how she is creating a real team culture within Rockinghorse, where everyone plays their part. It was a fascinating conversation and a real insight into the mindset of someone who genuinely wants to make a difference, having an impact and helping to change peoples lives, as she says 'What makes her happy is there is a big job to be done and she has a small part to play and will play her part until the big job is done'
Everyone has a story to tell... Happy Listening š§
Donna's one rule for living a fulfilled life:
š„ 'Do something that is bigger than you'
Watch the episode on YouTube ā”ļø https://youtu.be/Vj6XCGl-meQ
You can find out more about Rockinghorse ā”ļø https://www.rockinghorse.org.uk/meet-the-team/
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Short Story 18: The Drive to Overcome: Jade Goodwin on Resilience, Racing, and Rising Above
14:49|Prepare yourself for an inspirational episode in our Short Story Series, where we delve into the defining moments that have shaped some of the most remarkable journeys from the past six seasons. Today, we spotlight a truly powerful conversation with motor racing sensation Jade Goodwin, whose story is as powerful as it is inspiring.In this compelling Short Story episode, we dive into the incredible resilience and mental toughness of racing driver Jade Goodwin. Jade opens up about the mental challenges she's faced on and off the track, revealing how racing became not just a passion but a lifeline. She shares candidly about the depths of adversity and how she found strength within herself, using racing as both an escape and a training ground for building unwavering mental fortitude.In a sport where split-second decisions make all the difference, Jade talks about what it means to have resilience ā not just to persevere in high-stakes competitions, but to endure life's personal battles. She takes us inside her journey to overcoming struggles and finding purpose through her relentless drive. This episode offers a powerful reminder of how resilience can be cultivated through the darkest times and how determination can push us beyond what we ever thought possible.From her first podium win, which she describes as ālife-saving,ā to her ongoing quest for equality in motorsport, Jadeās story is one of triumph, self-discovery, and unbreakable spirit. For her, success isnāt about trophies but about living authentically and finding joy in what you love.As we explore themes of self-worth, resilience, and breaking through barriers, Jade leaves listeners with invaluable wisdom:āAppreciate how far youāve come.ā Tune in to hear Jade's inspiring story of resilience, grit, and the mental toughness required to keep moving forward against all odds. Whether you're facing challenges or simply looking to strengthen your own mindset, Jadeās story will leave you inspired and motivated to rise above.#MotorRacing #JadeGoodwin #FemaleDrivers #Resilience #MentalHealthAwareness #BreakingBarriers #OvercomingAdversity #SuccessRedefined #RacingInspiration #Motorsport #MentalToughness #SelfCare #Vulnerability #CommunitySupport #SelfWorth #SuccessStory #WomenInMotorsport #MotorsportJourney #RacingChallenges #RacingLife #AuthenticLiving #RedefineSuccess #Empowerment #Inspiration #PersonalGrowth #NeverGiveUp #DriveYourDreamsWatch the Short Story here š§¢ https://youtu.be/Lc87FP_FUCUListen here or wherever you get your podcasts š§¢ https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale š§¢ https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X š§¢ https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove š§¢ https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd š§¢ https://h2productions.co.uk/Short Story 17: The Gift of Naivety: Navigating the Highs and Lows of Entrepreneurship with Gary Peters
13:00|Prepare yourself for an electrifying episode in our Short Story Series, where we delve into the defining moments that have shaped some of the most remarkable journeys from the past six seasons. Today, we spotlight an unforgettable conversation with award-winning entrepreneur Gary Peters.This episode remains one of our most popular for a reason. In this powerful short story, Gary opens up about how naivety can be an entrepreneur's greatest gift and the unexpected edge it can provide. He pulls back the curtain on the true experience of running a businessāthe daily challenges, the relentless knocks, and the unyielding resilience needed to navigate them.Gary shares the profound lesson that every entrepreneur needs to embrace: we all have good days and bad days, but if we commit to doing our best each day and remember that "this too shall pass," we can endure and thrive.This episode holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its insights, but because Gary has been a mentor, a source of inspiration, and a great friend over the years. Join us for this inspirational short story and discover why it continues to resonate so deeply with listeners.#Entrepreneurship #BusinessJourney #Inspiration #Resilience #StartupLife #EntrepreneurMindset #SuccessStories #Leadership #Motivation #EntrepreneurLife #DailyStruggles #Mentorship #LifeLessons #BusinessInsights #PodcastHighlights #ShortStorySeries #BusinessWisdom #OvercomingChallenges #NaivetyAsStrength #ThisTooShallPass #GrowthMindset #EntrepreneurAdvice #LearnFromTheBest #CreativeLeadership #PowerfulConversations #AwardWinningEntrepreneurWatch the Short Story here š§¢ https://youtu.be/Je7WXI_BTjIListen here or wherever you get your podcasts š§¢ https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale š§¢ https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X š§¢ https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove š§¢ https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd š§¢ https://h2productions.co.uk/Finding Your Passion: Exploring Rob Starrās Life and His Debut Novel The First Widow
50:26|In this special live episode, we celebrated the launch ofĀ 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, Robās story is one of relentless drive and heart.We dove into his journeyāfrom the early days and his fatherās 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 52Ć52 Challenge: completing 52 Olympic triathlons in 52 consecutive weeks. Robās spirit is truly unstoppable.Rob's novel,Ā 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 businessmanās death, she finds herself pulled into a deadly conspiracy, torn between uncovering the truth and protecting her family. Rob shares the inspiration behind Kiaraās 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 Robās 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 š§¢ https://youtu.be/nncvoW2xysQListen here or wherever you get your podcasts š§¢ https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale š§¢ https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X š§¢ https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove š§¢ https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd š§¢ https://h2productions.co.uk/Short Story 16: What Makes a Great Ted Talk with TedX Curator Toby Moore
16:21|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, weāre 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? š£ļøWith the highly anticipated December event at the Brighton Dome fast approachingāwhere TEDās very own Chris Anderson will take the stage for an unforgettable eveningāweāre bringing you an inspiring story from one of my most thought-provoking guests, my good friend Toby Moore š.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. š”In this compelling short story, we explore:ā Tobyās honest and raw relationship with failureš The surprising ways we measure success and why it mattersš§¢ How embracing different roles can unlock new opportunities and experiencesš£ļø 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 š #StorytellingMasteryWatch the Short Story here š§¢ https://youtu.be/E7-1HSRsWuoListen here or wherever you get your podcasts š§¢ https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale š§¢ https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X š§¢ https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove š§¢ https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd š§¢ https://h2productions.co.uk/Short Story 15: Beyond Success: Chris Goodman on Mental Health and Finding Fulfillment
19:30|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 itās 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 Chrisās storyāan 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,Ā āItās good to squawk,āĀ 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 scriptāworking 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 havenāt nurtured your own well-being. Itās a lesson that will resonate with manyāthose 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, theĀ 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 š§¢ https://youtu.be/P06EkcrmfGMListen here or wherever you get your podcasts š§¢ https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale š§¢ https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X š§¢ https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove š§¢ https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd š§¢ https://h2productions.co.uk/Short Story 14: Do It Now: Rob Starr on Building the Starr Trust and Changing Lives
16:03|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, weāre 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 Ā£20,000 bank loan in a last-ditch effort to save it. But a chance encounter with his fatherās window cleaner brought him back to the core values his dad had instilled in himāface 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 bornāan organization created to honor their fatherās 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 Robās father had believed in him.Robās journey is a testament to resilience, generosity, and the profound impact of living with purpose. He is truly one of the most inspiring individuals Iāve had the pleasure of hosting on this podcast, and this short story showcases why."Do it NOWāwhatever it is in life, do it now!"This is the powerful message Rob leaves us with, and itās a mantra he continues to live by. Since recording this episode, Rob has released his debut novel,Ā The First Widow, which is available on Amazon and will also be featured at theĀ Different Hats Live Show 'Book Launch'Ā on Monday, October 21st.#StarrTrust #RobStarr #LegacyOfHope #EmpoweringYouth #Resilience #FacingChallenges #DoItNow #InspiringJourneys #GivingBack #ChangingLives #YouthEmpowerment #BuildingCommunity #OvercomingAdversity #PodcastInspiration #DifferentHatsLiveWatch the Short Story here š§¢ https://youtu.be/E3OOPEeFNiUListen here or wherever you get your podcasts š§¢ 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 š§¢ https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X š§¢ https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Nostos Hove š§¢ https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd š§¢ https://h2productions.co.uk/Short Story 13: Unlocking the Power of Connections with Vince Pemberton
13:41|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."Donāt 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 Walshāproving that relationships built on integrity can open remarkable doors.Vinceās story embodies the core principle thatĀ āpeople buy people.āĀ 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 Rivervaleās 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. Vinceās 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 š§¢ https://youtu.be/lAZxDqS02OwListen here or wherever you get your podcasts š§¢ https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale š§¢ https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X š§¢ https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Rubix VT š§¢ https://www.rubixvt.com/Nostos Hove š§¢ https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd š§¢ https://h2productions.co.uk/Short Story 12: Redefining Life: Lyndsey Clay's Journey from Infertility to Empowerment
15:03|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. Todayās 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 ā and how, through immense courage, she chose to rewrite her narrative.DuringĀ 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,Ā 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 didnāt just overcome ā she used her experience as a foundation to grow, build, and help others facing similar struggles.This path led to the creation ofĀ 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, sheās not only a successful entrepreneur but an award-winning advocate for community and connection. Recognized as one of Small Business BritaināsĀ Top 100 Female Entrepreneurs, Lyndsey's story is one of resilience, grit, and finding the truest version of yourself through lifeās most challenging moments.This episode is a testament to the idea that infertility doesnāt have to signal the endāit 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 š§¢ https://youtu.be/IZRYRuc7tz8Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts š§¢ https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale š§¢ https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X š§¢ https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Rubix VT š§¢ https://www.rubixvt.com/Nostos Hove š§¢ https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd š§¢ https://h2productions.co.uk/Short Story 11: Breaking Free from Limiting Beliefs: Helen Guinness on Unlocking Your Potential
16:29|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. Todayās episode features the deeply inspiring Helen Guinness.ā80% of the feedback we receive growing up is negative.ā ~ 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 weāre meant to live.She reminds us that nothing is impossible ā 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 š§¢ https://youtu.be/iDCNdpslWEoListen here or wherever you get your podcasts š§¢ https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.OUR SPONSORSRivervale š§¢ https://www.rivervale.co.uk/Plus X š§¢ https://www.plusxinnovation.com/Rubix VT š§¢ https://www.rubixvt.com/Nostos Hove š§¢ https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/OUR PRODUCERSH2 Productions Ltd š§¢ https://h2productions.co.uk/