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Gobsmacked!
Catherine Williamson shares those Gobsmacked moments that change our lives forever
Latest episode
28. 28. Submerged in Hope - The David Barnes Story
47:21In this episode, we dive into the inspiring tale of David Barnes—a story of resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of cold water immersion.From the tough, wild mountains of West Cumbria to the depths of David's personal struggles, his journey is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the region and its people. Battling personal demons, facing the collapse of his marriage, and confronting the haunting spectre of childhood trauma, David found solace and strength in the icy embrace of cold water swimming.Through his perseverance and the healing power of nature, David emerged from the depths of despair, revitalised, and renewed. Join us as we delve deeper into David's story, drawing inspiration from his triumphs and tribulations. Whether you're seeking motivation, enlightenment, or simply a reminder of the resilience within us all, Gobsmacked! promises to uplift and inspire.
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27. 27. Uneducating Julie: A Journey Beyond the Classroom with Julie White
41:01Julie White, a Coventry native who overcame chronic anxiety to become a formidable force in the world of business and advocacy. From navigating the 2008 recession to gracing the screens of BBC Question Time, Julie's story is all about grit determination with a dose of blag thrown in. Tune in as we explore her captivating tale of triumph against the odds and her ongoing mission to champion Small Medium Enterprises Construction and apprenticeships alongside influential figures like Rishi Sunak. Get ready to be gobsmacked by Julie's inspiring journey of resilience and triumph.26. 26. MND ‘Beyond the Whistle’: The Matt Gallagher Story
43:04Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Matt Gallagher, a former rugby pro facing Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Rejecting despair, Matt channels his strength into the Matt Gallagher Foundation, raising funds and awareness for MND. Tune in to be inspired by his resilience and determination.https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-matt-gallagher-foundation-coventry-rugby-club25. 25. Neive's Arc with Sarah Warwick & Kelly Illes
33:33This moving and challenging podcast features Sarah Warwick and Kelly Illes: mothers who formed a deep enduring bond when Sarah’s daughter Neive, aged 5, was diagnosed with embryonal/fusion negative parameningeal rhabdomyosarcoma, in August 2022. The Enchanted Tea Rooms, owned by Kelly, was the backdrop to their friendship and the many happy memories Neive had during her treatment, which included nine rounds of intensive chemotherapy & proton beam therapy. Alas, scans in September 2023 showed disease progression in the brain and spinal fluid. Neive went home on palliative care to be with her family. She passed away on 24th October 2023. Sarah and Kelly explore the impact of Neive’s passing and why they are absolutely focussed on fund raising in Neive’s memory for Neive’s Arc.https://www.alicesarc.org/arc/neive-warwick/24. 24. Broken Heart Syndrome with Julie Richards
37:46Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or broken heart syndrome was first diagnosed in Japan in the early 90’s but it wasn’t until 2004 that it was recognised in the West. This type of heart attack is very prevalent in post-menopausal women making up 9 out of 10 cases. Killing almost 3 times as many women each year than breast cancer. Julie Richards has been a fit and athletic woman all her life, so was completely blindsided when in 2023 she experienced what felt like a crushing weight on her chest. She was in fact having a Takotsubo heart attack. She explains in great deal the impact on her of dealing with a medical condition so poorly understood.23. 23. Resurgam with Gary McKee
44:03Gary ‘365 consecutive marathons’ McKee reflects on some of his gobsmacking moments of the last few challenges. Running the London Marathon on 10 pints and a curry. Sharing motivational anecdotes with Jürgen Klopp, lifting the cup in front of 70,000 crowd at the rugby World Cup. As well as how his heroic endeavours have been supported by fellow hero and ultra marathon runner, Kevin Sinfield. Buckle up; this chaps got some stories!22. 22. Infamous with Richard McCann
33:30How anyone finds it in their heart to forgive the man who murdered their mum is beyond most's comprehension. Add to that her murderer is one of the most notorious serial killers - Peter Sutcliffe. This is not an easy listen but from it comes a message of compassion and forgiveness; gold in the darkest of places.