Purpose Made Podcast

In this episode, Peter sits down with Adolf Kristjansson, a commercial visionary and former strategist behind some of EA’s most iconic AAA titles, to explore his extraordinary journey through the gaming industry. From an early fascination with arcade games in Iceland to leading blockbuster franchises like FIFA, Star Wars, Apex Legends, and Battlefield at Electronic Arts, Adolf shares insights into the highs and lows of a two-decade career shaping digital worlds.We journey through the pivotal shifts in gaming, from the decline of physical goods to the rise of digital content, exploring how monetisation models like FIFA’s Ultimate Team revolutionised the industry. But Adolf’s reflections reach beyond tactics. He speaks candidly about the art of leadership in high-stakes environments, the role of innovation in staying relevant, and how AI, subscriptions, seamless experiences, and immersive tech promise to redefine what gaming can be.In a field that constantly reinvents itself, Adolf’s story is one of adaptability, resilience, and vision. He offers practical wisdom on fostering teams that thrive amid rapid change and emphasises the importance of balancing long-term ambition with the demands of a highly competitive market. Throughout, he reflects on the mentors and challenges that have shaped his approach and shares his outlook on gaming's future as it continues to expand beyond the console.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Background of Adolf Kristjansson01:42 Early Days and Passion for Gaming03:34 Building a Career in the Gaming Industry07:43 Transition to EA and Digital Strategy18:10 Leadership and Team Building Insights22:27 Defining Commercial Strategies for Major Franchises26:29 The Evolution of Games27:07 Cross-Pollination in Entertainment27:35 Community Engagement and Long-Term Thinking29:32 Impact of COVID on the Gaming Industry32:05 The Role of AI in Gaming34:19 Challenges and Opportunities in Gaming49:12 Final Thoughts and Industry Outlook51:00 The Future of Consoles and StreamingGaming today is about creating worlds that don’t just entertain but evolve—where every choice, every play is part of a greater story.Join us as Adolf reflects on the lessons learned from his time at EA and casts a hopeful eye toward the future of gaming—a future that will continue to push the boundaries of technology, storytelling, and community. Whether you’re passionate about gaming, curious about industry transformation, or simply seeking insight into the art of resilient leadership from one of gaming's brightest minds, this conversation offers invaluable takeaways.Watch the full conversation on YouTube or listen to the audio version on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now to stay informed on the issues that matter.Host: Peter BellGuest:Adolf KristjanssonProduced by: Purpose Made

What if the future of American democracy is already unraveling, and we’re all too distracted to see it? How did we get here—what forces have shaped the volatile political landscape we’re navigating today? And more importantly, can we still turn it around before it’s too late?In this episode, we delve into the complex, often controversial legacy of Donald J. Trump—far beyond the headlines. This is not just the story of one man; it's the story of an entire system transformed. Together with criminologist Gregg Barak, we trace Trump’s trajectory from his early years in real estate, through his strategic use of legal loopholes, to his profound reshaping of the Republican Party.We’ll also explore the Russian collusion investigation, The Mueller Report, and Trump's landmark Supreme Court appointments, each of which continues to shape America's political and legal future. And we dive into the GOP's 'Project 2025'—a blueprint that could steer the country down an authoritarian path.This conversation is more than just about Trump—it's a deep exploration of the state of American democracy and the forces that could determine its future.Key Questions:1). How has Trump’s influence fundamentally altered the Republican Party’s DNA?2). What can history teach us about the fragility of democracy under rising authoritarianism?3). Is there still time to protect and reform America’s governance, or have we reached a tipping point?As we approach November's critical presidential election, this episode invites you to reflect on the lessons of the past, understand the present political climate, and—most importantly—consider the urgent steps needed to safeguard the future.About Our Guest:Gregg Barak, author of Criminology on Trump and Indicting the 45th President: Boss Trump, the GOP, and What We Can Do About the Threat to American Democracy, brings decades of expertise in criminology, law, and justice. His insights are essential for anyone wanting to understand the intersection of law, politics, and criminal justice—and what it means for America's future.Don’t miss this timely, eye-opening conversation that goes beyond the headlines, right into the heart of America’s political crossroads.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Trump07:46 Trump’s Early Life and Influences13:08 Trump’s Political Ascent and Legal Tactics16:25 Weaponizing the Law and Campaign Finance23:41 Trump’s Impact on the Republican Party26:18 Legal Battles and Public Perception27:55 Supreme Court and Presidential Immunity31:42 January 6th: Key Events and Consequences37:01 Project 2025 and Republican Platform45:56 Proposed Reforms for American Democracy49:06 Future of American Democracy51:23 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysWatch the full conversation on YouTube. Or, listen to the audio version on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now to stay informed on the issues that matter.Host: Peter BellGuest: Gregg BarakProduced by: Purpose Made

What if the toughest battles aren’t fought in stadiums, but in the shadows of a broken childhood?In this profoundly moving episode, Fatima Whitbread shares a story that goes far beyond athletic triumph—it’s one of survival, courage, and an unyielding spirit. Born into abandonment and forced to navigate the brutal realities of the care system, Fatima’s early years were a battle against neglect, trauma, and profound loneliness. But from the ashes of her childhood emerged something remarkable: an iron will and a resilience that would not be crushed.Fatima opens up about the inner demons she faced, the darkness that nearly consumed her, and the life-changing influence of two incredible women—Auntie Ray and, later, Margaret Whitbread—who gave her the family she never knew. This isn’t just a sports story; it’s a testament to the power of the human spirit. It’s about how, when pushed to the edge, we can rise not only for ourselves but for those generations who follow.From setting world records to standing on countless podiums and becoming a world champion, Fatima reflects on her greatest battles, which were not fought on the athletic field but within herself and traumas faced. Today, through her advocacy, she’s using her platform to champion the rights of children in the care system—children, like her, who deserve a chance to rewrite their own stories.Timestamps:00:00 – Where It All Began01:28 – Life Beyond Sport02:52 – Inside the Children’s Homes05:48 – The Power of Love09:42 – Confronting Trauma15:47 – Discovering Javelin21:11 – Becoming a Whitbread23:30 – Campaigning for Change29:16 – Early Training29:43 – Breaking Barriers30:26 – World Records & Olympic Dreams31:09 – The Weight of Triumph31:47 – Facing Mental Health Challenges33:48 – Navigating the Darkest Moments34:34 – The Pressure of Media & Writing Her Story39:07 – The Olympic Journey44:45 – Making Her Voice Count45:04 – From Athlete to TV Star51:43 – Legacy56:46 – Final ThoughtsThis isn’t just a story of sporting success—it’s an exploration of what it means to persevere, to push through adversity, and to transform suffering into strength. Fatima’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and her insights into overcoming trauma and turning pain into purpose will resonate long after the episode ends.If you want to witness the real person behind the medals, watch the full conversation on YouTube. Or, listen to the audio version on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.This episode is for anyone who’s ever wondered how to turn their own pain into power. Fatima Whitbread shows us the way.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now to stay informed on the issues that matter.Host: Peter BellGuest: Fatima WhitbreadProduced by: Purpose Made

When the streets of Britain erupted into chaos, it wasn't just a moment of unrest—it was an earthquake, shaking the very foundations of society and exposing deep, underlying fractures. As the nation grapples with these turbulent times, understanding the forces that brought us here is crucial. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the political, social, and economic factors fuelling this unrest, offering a clear-eyed look at the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.To help us navigate this complex landscape, we’re joined by Jo Tanner, a distinguished political strategist with over 25 years of experience. Tanner, who has provided counsel to key figures in UK politics, including former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, offers a nuanced understanding of the dynamics at play.With a career spanning journalism and political communications, Tanner brings a unique perspective on the interplay between media, politics, and public sentiment. In this episode, we dive into the Labour Party's recent landslide victory, the challenges they face in a fractured political environment, and the broader societal issues that have fuelled the recent unrest.Timestamps: 00:00 | Introductions01:41 | Introducing Jo Tanner02:10 | Labour's Sweeping Victory02:38 | Challenges Facing the New Government02:48 | Jo Tanner's Background07:59 | Economic Inequality and Redistribution of Wealth08:32 | Health Service Crisis14:00 | Global Political Landscape17:37 | Broken Britain and Global Investment Challenges21:03 | Prison System and Reforms23:16 | The Importance of Prevention24:20 | Addressing Social Issues in the Northeast25:40 | Community Engagement and Government Responsibility27:23 | Challenges in Political Narratives30:28 | Long-Term Solutions and Building Trust38:47 | The Role of Opposition and Cross-Party Collaboration44:10 | The Power of Multiculturalism and Unity47:30 | Final Thoughts and TakeawaysChatting to Jo was an absolute pleasure, and as we peel back the layers of Britain’s current unrest, this conversation not only uncovers the complex interplay of political, social, and economic forces at work but also offers a roadmap for navigating these turbulent times. Tanner’s insights illuminate the pressing need for systemic change, emphasising the importance of addressing inequality, strengthening community bonds, and fostering collaborative governance.This episode is a call to action for all of us—whether you're engaged in political discourse, working within communities, or simply seeking to understand the forces shaping our world today. It’s a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Britain and a crucial listen for anyone invested in the future of this nation.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now to stay informed on the issues that matter.Host: Peter BellGuest: Jo TannerProduced by: Purpose Made, dedicated to guiding leaders through seas of change.

What separates those who conquer challenges from those who stumble? Do you have what it takes to succeed in any situation? According to retired Navy SEAL Commander Rich Diviney, true optimal performance goes beyond just skill. It's all about THE ATTRIBUTES.In the latest episode of the Purpose Made Podcast, I sit down with Rich Diviney to uncover "The Attributes: 25 Hidden Drivers of Optimal Performance." With over 21 years of service and 13 deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, Rich shares profound insights into human performance, revealing the hidden attributes that fuel success.Discover the power of cunning, adaptability, courage, even narcissism--that determine how resilient or perseverant we are, and the crucial difference between peak and optimal performance. Learn about dynamic leadership, the surprising role of humour, and actionable strategies to thrive under stress and uncertainty.Rich's insights help you understand the attributes that drive elite performance, both in the military and everyday life. This episode is packed with takeaways on developing your performance and leading high-performing teams.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:09 Meet Rich Diviney01:24 Rich's Journey and Career02:49 The Reality of Navy SEALS05:19 Mental Toughness and Attributes in SEAL Training07:55 Optimal vs. Peak Performance14:42 Leadership in High-Performing Teams18:11 The Role of Humour in High-Performing Teams23:21 Mindset and Motivations Behind the Book23:36 Defining Skills vs. Attributes24:40 The Nature of Attributes27:37 Developing Attributes29:33 The Role of Environment in Attribute Development31:06 Enhancing Attributes in Practice33:24 Mindset and Neuroplasticity37:32 Understanding and Leveraging Personal Attributes41:32 Building High-Performing Teams42:56 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysChatting with Rich was an absolute pleasure. Delving into his military background, we uncover more than tales of physical endurance. This is a conversation that explores the core of our disposition and mindset. This is an essential conversation for anyone seeking optimal performance, it serves as a powerful guide to understanding how our attributes shape our realities and outcomes and how we can refine these traits to achieve optimal performance across all areas of our lives.For those who prefer video content, our discussion is available on YouTube. As always, you can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.Unlock the secrets of elite performance from one of the elite. May this conversation inspire and motivate you to push beyond your limits and transform your understanding of human performance.Special Offer:Unlock Your Leadership Potential. Use the code PETERBELL15 to get a 15% discount on The Attributes Assessment at theattributes.com.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now!Host: Peter BellGuest: Rich DivineyThis podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to helping you achieve your highest potential.

Imagine living through the most intense, history-defining moments of the 20th century and emerging with a wealth of wisdom and an unshakeable spirit. Tom Davidson, at 100, brings these experiences to life, recounting his daring WWII raids and the harrowing experiences that tested his mettle. This isn't just a history lesson; it's a journey into the heart and mind of a man who has seen the darkest and brightest sides of humanity.Tom reflects on the horrors of war, the pride in his generation's achievements, and, most poignantly, the ultimate sacrifices made by his comrades, including his brother. These moments didn't just shape history; they shaped Tom into the person he is today—a person whose life is filled with love, integrity, and profound insights.Despite facing unimaginable loss, including the death of his brother Frank and 50% of his comrades, Tom and his crew went on to complete 36 successful missions. His bravery earned him the prestigious Legion of Honour medal. These achievements are more than military accolades; they are stories of human endurance and solidarity.This episode isn't just a historical account; it’s a powerful blueprint for living a life filled with love and connection, even in the face of adversity. It's about the importance of remembering the past to guide our future, and the strength we find in each other.Time Stamps:00:00 Introduction to War Memories00:06 Joining the War Effort00:19 Experiences in Combat01:08 Life After the War01:25 Reflections on Early Life02:42 Training and Service in the RAF06:02 Memorable Missions08:55 Coping with War's Horrors11:56 Post-War Reflections12:58 Impact of Service on Personal Life16:23 Advice for Future Generations20:53 Final Thoughts on Life and LongevityMay Tom’s journey and wisdom inspire us all to face the challenges ahead with resilience and integrity and to better understand the attributes that compel human behaviour and potential.

In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative power of stories and how they shape our lives. We explore a critical conversation between Rich Roll and Andrew Huberman on the concept of 'interjection'—the idea that consuming certain types of content can subconsciously influence our decisions and shape our personalities. This episode emphasises the concept that 'garbage in, garbage out,' meaning the quality of what we consume directly impacts our lives and who we become.In This Episode, We Discuss:- The concept of 'interjection' as discussed by Andrew Huberman- How stories and ideas from books can lead to positive changes in our lives- The importance of choosing inspirational and positive contentBooks Mentioned:1. Ari Wallach - Longpath: A book about thinking long-term and embracing a mindset that goes beyond short-term gains.2. Rich Roll - Finding Ultra: A transformative story of personal endurance and overcoming obstacles.3. Ross Edgley - The Art of Resilience: An exploration of mental and physical endurance, illustrated through the author’s swim around Great Britain.4. John McAvoy - Redemption: The autobiography of a former criminal turned world-record-holding athlete, showcasing the power of redemption.5. Brene Brown - Daring Greatly: A dive into the power of vulnerability and courage.6. Daniel Kahneman - Thinking, Fast and Slow: A profound exploration of our decision-making processes.7. Carol Dweck - Mindset: A transformative analysis of the growth vs. fixed mindset.8. Simon Sinek - Start with Why: An exploration of finding deeper purpose and clarity in life.9. Sebastian Junger - In My Time of Dying: A part-medical drama, part-autobiography on confronting mortality.10. James Clear - Atomic Habits: A guide to building good habits and breaking bad ones.11. Angela Duckworth - Grit: The power of passion and perseverance in achieving long-term goals.12. Stephen Pressfield - The War of Art: Strategies for overcoming the resistance creatives face.13. Tim Ferriss - Tools of Titans: A compilation of routines and habits from high achievers.14. Randy Pausch - The Last Lecture: A moving reflection on life and legacy, offering profound insights into achieving dreams.These books have greatly influenced my mindset and my hope is that they inspire you too. Keep learning, keep growing, and remember: the stories you consume and the challenges you overcome shape the person you become. We all possess the power to transform our lives through the insights we gain and the actions we take. Until next time!

In this episode of the Purpose Made Podcast, Peter delves deep into the fundamental question: What is it that you really want to do? This isn't about superficial job titles or daily tasks, but rather an exploration of our true motivations, passions, and visions for the future. Peter answers listener questions and shares insights into understanding the "why" behind our actions.Key Discussion Points:Finding Your WhyWhat Motivates You?Envisioning Your FutureThe Value of SharingCommitment to ProgressLife’s UnpredictabilityThe Power of SupportReflect and AdjustYour Unique JourneyClosing Thoughts And Key TakeawaysIn a world full of noise and distractions, Peter's reflections remind us of the importance of aligning our actions with our deepest aspirations. If you're ready to transform your life and take meaningful steps towards your true purpose, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in, subscribe, and embark on your unique journey with us.Enjoyed this episode? Follow the Purpose Made Podcast for more insightful discussions and thought-provoking content. Your future self will thank you.