Purpose Made Podcast

Entertainment attorney Simon Pulman (Prior Cashman, NYC) reveals how to build billion-dollar transmedia franchises without risking studio collapse. Learn the formula top 1% of adaptations use.The entertainment industry faces its biggest paradigm shift in decades. While Hollywood struggles with declining theatre attendance and rising production costs, gaming properties are creating the most successful adaptations in history. Entertainment lawyer Simon Pulman breaks down exactly why this is happening and how it's transforming deal structures across the industry.In this eye-opening conversation, Pulman reveals how individual incentives are driving risk-aversion across studios, why original scripts have been replaced by IP acquisitions, and the shocking truth about how "Hollywood created Netflix" through short-term financial decisions that destroyed their long-term business model.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction to Simon Pulman's expertise02:14 Why original scripts dominated in the 90s vs franchise dominance today04:35 The audience shift: Why people won't leave home for cinema anymore07:18 How international content (Squid Game, anime) is reshaping Hollywood10:47 Snow White remake failure: Budget vs ROI analysis13:30 Community: The undervalued asset Hollywood ignores but gaming understands17:42 The Holy Trinity of successful adaptations: Last of Us, Fallout, Mario21:36 Why honoring IP is non-negotiable for successful adaptations26:55 How transmedia success drives game sales - the feedback loop30:10 The weekly episode model vs. binge culture for deeper engagement33:22 Netflix's gaming strategy: Can they leverage their IPs effectively?39:08 BioWare's storytelling potential beyond games43:15 The new deal paradigm: How game companies flipped Hollywood's ownership model49:40 Roblox's untapped potential: Why it's creating tomorrow's entertainment moguls56:28 AI's complex entertainment industry implications57:45 Entertainment predictions for next 12 monthsAbout Simon Pulman:Simon Pulman is an entertainment attorney with Prior Cashman in New York City, specialising in deals across television, motion pictures, podcasts, video games, and publishing. He helps companies develop, produce, and finance media projects during a period of unprecedented technological and audience behaviour change.The Transmedia Revolution:This episode explores how successful properties like The Last of Us have created a virtuous cycle where shows drive game sales and games build audience anticipation for new seasons - all while maintaining the core emotional elements that connected with audiences originally.Join the Conversation:What gaming property do you think deserves the Last of Us treatment next? Share your thoughts in the comments below!Connect with Simon:Find Simon Pulman on LinkedIn for more insights on entertainment law and industry trends.Subscribe for more industry insights:🎮 YouTube:‪@PurposeMadePodcast‬ 🎧 Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/66hrGrt...

In this episode, I sit down with retired Navy SEAL commander and performance expert Rich Diviney who reveals the revolutionary "Mastering Uncertainty Method" - a science-backed approach that elite military operators use to thrive under pressure when things don't go according to plan.Drawing from over two decades of experience leading and training top performers (including founding the SEALs' "Mind Gym"), Rich breaks down how anyone can harness uncertainty as an advantage rather than a liability. We explore how Navy SEALs develop mental toughness, make decisive decisions under extreme pressure, and leverage their innate human capabilities to excel in chaotic environments.Rich shares practical strategies to:Transform uncertain moments into opportunitiesTap into your body's natural performance engine during difficult challengesMaintain composure under pressureImprove performance when stakes are highestUnderstand your "raw self" to determine optimal actions in any scenarioAvoid the traps causing 95% of teams to underperformBuild the four domains of trust essential to high-performing teamsWhether facing uncertainty in your personal or professional life, this conversation provides actionable insights to develop the mindset of an elite operator.As Simon Sinek says about Rich's work: "Easy to understand and simple to implement, Masters of Uncertainty is essential for any person or team that wants to operate even better than they do now."As Andrew Huberman writes in the foreword to Rich's latest book, and the focal point of today's podcast, Masters of Uncertainty: "This book is a practical guide for how to wake up and be the most effective version of yourself, how to bring that to all your life's challenges, and (most importantly) how to perpetually bounce upward and forward when pushed back or under pressure... and in so doing, exceed your previous self and performance—over and over and over.""People like Rich Diviney are rare: because of what they know, for what they have proved capable of doing, and for their ability to teach it to others... This book will powerfully shift how you view and approach life—its challenges and its less challenging moments too—for the better."Grab a Copy of The Books Here:- Masters of Uncertainty: https://amzn.to/41RdlB1- The Attributes: 25 Hidden Drivers of Optimal Performance: https://amzn.to/42aEdLhSpecial 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 DivineyPete's Socials:Website ▹ https://www.purposemade.uk/LinkedIn ▹ https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-george-bell/Instagram ▹ https://www.instagram.com/thepeterbell/Rich's Socials:Website ▹ https://theattributes.com/all-attributes/LinkedIn ▹ https://www.linkedin.com/in/richdiviney/Instagram ▹ https://www.instagram.com/rich_diviney/?hl=enThis podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to helping you achieve your highest potential.

Russell Binder, the IP accelerator behind Five Nights at Freddy's, Twilight, and The Hunger Games, reveals how gaming communities are reshaping Hollywood's and gamings approach to franchise building.In this conversation, Russell Binder, founder of Stryker Entertainment, shares his journey from representing comic book creators to building billion-dollar transmedia franchises. With 30+ years of experience developing IPs like Five Nights at Freddy's, Twilight Saga, and Angry Birds, Russell provides unprecedented insights into how gaming communities are transforming Hollywood and gaming's approach to storytelling, merchandising and entertainment."When I started in the business, there were the five families, Warner's, Disney, Universal, Sony, and Paramount, and they were generally the gatekeepers of the big IPs," Russell explains. He reveals the strategies behind turning Five Nights at Freddy's from an indie game to a global phenomenon through community cultivation: "The virality of these jump scares and watching people play this game introduced this property to a massive social audience across YouTube, across Instagram... you didn't have to play the game to get excited about Five Nights at Freddy's."Russell also shares candid stories about working with industry legends: "If you ask me what I love about my job, as much as I love movies, as much as I love video games, the people I've had the pleasure to work with, Steven Spielberg, Sean Levy, Guillermo del Toro, like some of the coolest storytellers and filmmakers..." His insights on what makes an IP truly transferable are invaluable: "If you look at what works in horror, it's iconic. It's Freddie, Jason, Michael Myers in the film business. In gaming, Five Nights at Freddy's and Poppy and Bendy... Iconic characters that translate multi-directionally."Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Russell Binder and Striker Entertainment05:32 The Twilight Saga 18:17 Transitioning to Video Games: Angry Birds and Five Nights at Freddy's25:43 Future of Transmedia and Cross-Platform Content34:27 The Challenges of Transmedia Projects34:54 Disney's Transmedia Mastery35:17 Amazon's Potential in Transmedia36:47 The Evolution of Gaming and Hollywood37:29 Criteria for Successful Transmedia Ventures40:15 High on Life: A Transmedia Success Story41:36 The Future of Transmedia Adaptations51:09: Working with Steven Spielberg 59:42 The Future of Transmedia and EntertainmentGuest Biography:Russell Binder is the founder of Stryker Entertainment, an IP accelerator specialising in transmedia development, licensing, and production. With over 30 years in the entertainment industry, Russell has managed blockbuster IPs including The Twilight Saga, The Hunger Games, TheWalkingDead, Pacific Rim, Five Nights at Freddy's, Preacher, KickAss2, TED and TED 2, Terminator Salvation, Terminator Genisys, House of Cards, Orange is the New Black, The BFG, Powers, Ender's Game, and others. His unique approach combines consumer products expertise with film/TV development, helping creators maximise their IP's potential across multiple platforms.Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/I3WAJiz82Hk?si=quh3xArWI_3B9h_P Connect with Russell Binder:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-binder-19a3791/Website: https://www.strikerentertainment.com/Connect with Pete: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-george-bell/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepeterbell/Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/before-5-on-friday-7244349280012886020/Website: https://www.purposemade.uk

Olympic & Paralympic champion David Smith MBE shares his extraordinary journey through cancer, paralysis, and transformation. A powerful story of resilience and purpose. In this profound conversation, Olympic gold medalist and Paralympic champion David Smith MBE opens up about his remarkable journey through multiple life-altering challenges. From reaching the pinnacle of athletic achievement to facing cancer, paralysis, and a complete identity transformation, David's story is a masterclass in human resilience and post-traumatic growth.🎯 KEY MOMENTS:00:00 Olympic Journey & Early Success12:45 Confronting Cancer & Life's Fragility25:30 Navigating Paralysis & Identity Crisis35:15 The Power of Post-Traumatic Growth48:20 Transforming Through Loss of Ego59:30 Finding Peace in Present MomentABOUT DAVID SMITH MBE:David Smith is a multi-sport phenomenon who has represented Great Britain in rowing, cycling, and Paralympic sports. After being paralysed from a spinal tumour surgery in 2016, he embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery and transformation. Today, he inspires others through speaking and coaching, sharing invaluable insights on resilience, purpose, and peak performance.KEY TAKEAWAYS:- How facing mortality can unlock deeper purpose- Transforming trauma into personal growth- Building resilience through adversity- Redefining identity after life-changing events- Finding strength in vulnerability- Achieving peak performance through alignment🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more conversations with world-class performers, thought leaders, and inspiring individuals who share their wisdom on purpose, performance, and personal growth.CONNECT WITH DAVID:Website: https://www.davidsmithathlete.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-smith-mbe-108a0719/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidsmithmbeCONNECT WITH PETER:Website: https://www.purposemade.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepeterbellLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-george-bell/READ THE NEWSLETTER:Subscribe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7244349280012886020#Paralympics #PostTraumaticGrowth #Resilience #OlympicAthlete #PersonalDevelopment #MentalHealth #PurposeMadePodcast #PeakPerformance #Inspiration #Mindset

From MMA in Japan to investing billions in gaming, Peter Levin shares the untold story of how gaming will transform entertainment forever.* Learn the future of gaming most investors miss* Discover emerging market opportunities worth billions* Get insider insights on Netflix's gaming strategy📺 Watch Noe on YouTubeSubscribe for conversations with industry leaders transforming the world of entertainment, sport and more.▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ TIMESTAMPS ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬00:00 Peter's Journey from MMA to Gaming05:32 The Birth of Modern Gaming Investment12:45 Transforming Gaming: Fallout's Success Story18:20 The $200B Gaming Opportunity24:15 Why Netflix is Betting Big on Gaming31:40 The Truth About VR Gaming38:50 Future of Gaming: Emerging Markets45:30 What Most People Miss About Gaming's Future🎯 TODAY'S INSIGHTS:* Peter's unique career journey from managing top MMA fighters to becoming a leading investor in the global gaming ecosystem.* Inside story of Fallout's journey from game to streaming hit* Why emerging markets will reshape gaming's future* Netflix's strategic moves in gaming revealed💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS:* Gaming is larger than film, music, and publishing combined* 3.4 billion people play games for an hour daily* Why VR gaming isn't ready for prime time* The untapped potential in Middle East and Indian markets🔗 CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST:Griffin: https://griffingp.com/Peter Levin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-y-levin-8109a811/🤝 CONNECT WITH PETER & PURPOSE MADE:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepeterbell/Website: https://www.purposemade.uk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-george-bell/📝 JOIN THE CONVERSATION:What's your take on the future of gaming? Share your thoughts below!Use #PurposeMade #GamingFuture to join the discussionDive deep into the future of gaming with Peter Levin, Co-founder and Managing Director of Griffin, one of the world's leading gaming investment firms. From his early days revolutionising MMA promotion to transforming major gaming franchises like Fallout, Peter shares invaluable insights about gaming's evolution, emerging market opportunities, and why traditional media is being reshaped by gaming culture. Learn why gaming has become the world's most influential entertainment medium and how it's reshaping everything from streaming services to global entertainment.🎵 Music licensed from Lickd. The biggest mainstream and stock music platform for content creators.Praise You (Radio Edit) by Fatboy Slim, https://lickd.lnk.to/iQmcKMID License ID: 2Ep2XR35Y6dIf you want to use music from famous artists, try Lickd to get track credits and unlimited stock music: https://app.lickd.co/r/a84790aaef3c4471b1961789b219827a

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.