Different Hats Podcast

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

In this special episode, I sit down with the head of TED himself, Chris Anderson, for a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into one of the most influential storytelling platforms on the planet. Our time together may have been brief—tucked away at a recent TED and TEDx Brighton pilot event—but the depth and brilliance of Chris’s insights were profound.Together, we explore what truly ignites a transformative idea, and how the right spark can ripple out to reshape entire communities. After stewarding TED for two decades, Chris shares some key ingredients behind what makes a memorable TED Talk—what it takes to captivate hearts and minds, and why storytelling is at the core of forging real human connections. His reflections on how we find our most powerful narratives align with the mission of this podcast and CBC: to encourage meaningful dialogue and help ideas flourish.Beyond TED, Chris also shares pivotal moments from his personal journey. From his upbringing in Pakistan to navigating the awkwardness of adolescence, venturing into journalism and entrepreneurship, and eventually assuming the helm of TED—even struggling initially with public speaking himself —Chris’s story is as inspiring as it is relatable.This is a fantastic insight into the man behind what is the surely the greatest storytelling platform in the world, that inspires, educates and how the ideas that are shared really do change the world.#DifferentHatsPodcast #IdeasChangeEverything #Stories #RedefiningSuccess #LifeLessons #TED #TedX #TEDTalk #PowerofStorytellingWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/wW9Zi10v34MListen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthatsSpecial thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible as well as a shout out to the TedX Brighton team and Toby Moore for making this happen: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/

In this gripping short story episode, we sit down with award-winning entrepreneur Kyriakos Baxevanis—founder of Little Jasmine Day Spas and Therapies, and Nostos Hove—as he reveals how he rose from the depths of depression to redefine his destiny. Kyriakos candidly shares the raw pain of hitting rock bottom and the unwavering resilience he forged in his youth, the very mindset that propelled him from obscurity to success.Through heartfelt honesty, he illustrates the extraordinary power of trusting your instincts and believing in yourself, no matter how daunting the path ahead may seem. He recalls making a pivotal decision to relocate to Brighton and vowing to excel at whatever he did—whether scaling a thriving venture or counting chickens at a grocery counter. His story illuminates the truth that true strength lies not in circumstance, but in the mindset you cultivate.This inspirational journey will resonate deeply with anyone striving to overcome personal barriers, rebuild after setbacks, or embrace a growth mindset. Tune in for a profound, no-holds-barred narrative that underscores one essential truth: "It is the mindset that defines you; it is the mindset you need to make it in this life."#Entrepreneurship #Resilience #OvercomingFailure #SmallBusinessTips #MentalHealthAwareness #PersonalGrowth #VulnerabilityIsStrength #BusinessChallenges #FindingPurpose #MotivationalStories #InspirationForLife #RebuildingAfterSetbacks #SuccessRedefined #LifeLessonsWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/aj3jUoKHIIYListen 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/

In this compelling short story episode, and just days ahead of is TED Talk at Brighton Dome. I wanted to release this transformative chapter of resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of purpose with the inspiring Dan Flanagan, founder of Dad La Soul. Dan shares the emotional rollercoaster of leaving behind a safe but unfulfilling career to chase entrepreneurial dreams, only to face crushing setbacks when his first business collapsed.Through moments of profound vulnerability, he takes us into the darkness of failure, revealing the immense pressure of fatherhood and the weight of self-doubt that brought him to the brink. This story isn't just about recovering from failure; it’s about redefining success, which message and mission aligns so much with my own. From learning to ask for help to embracing the power of community and creativity, Dan's journey reminds us that resilience is born from adversity, and true success is measured not by the titles we earn but by the connections we build and the lives we touch.Tune in for a raw and inspiring short story that will resonate with anyone navigating life’s challenges and striving to build something meaningful.#Entrepreneurship #Resilience #OvercomingFailure #FatherhoodJourney #SmallBusinessTips #MentalHealthAwareness #PersonalGrowth #VulnerabilityIsStrength #BusinessChallenges #FindingPurpose #MotivationalStories #InspirationForLife #RebuildingAfterSetbacks #SuccessRedefined #LifeLessonsWatch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/4_XyIbLYFPEListen 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/