She Who Dares, Wins.

Zoe East is the founder of Opal Video, a creative video production company known for its compelling storytelling and high-quality content. With years of experience in the industry, Zoe has built a reputation for pushing creative boundaries and delivering exceptional results. Her work spans various sectors, including corporate videos, promotional content, and elaborate production shoots in challenging environments. Zoe's dedication and passion for her craft have seen her brand Opal Video achieve significant milestones, including reaching its 8th anniversary.Episode Summary:Join Michelle in this engaging episode as she sits down with Zoe East from Opal Video to discuss her experiences in the video production industry. The episode opens with a fun fact about Zoe, revealing her initials spell her name. Zoe shares insights into her journey in video production, the story behind her unique initials, and how her name was carefully crafted by her parents to spell "Zoe East".As the conversation progresses, Michelle and Zoe delve into deeper topics, including Zoe's inspirational mantra "Stay weird", encouraging people to embrace their uniqueness and stand out from the crowd. They also explore the challenges of running a business, highlight Zoe's proudest achievements, and reflect on how seemingly tough experiences can drive personal and professional growth. The episode concludes with Zoe daring herself to complete a triathlon this year, connecting her personal goals with her professional ethos of pushing boundaries and stepping out of comfort zones.Key Takeaways:Embrace Uniqueness: Zoe encourages individuals to stay weird and be unapologetically themselves.Resilience in Business: Celebrating Opal Video's 8th anniversary, Zoe highlights the importance of perseverance and adaptation in business longevity.Facing Challenges Head-On: Real-life experiences from challenging shoots underline the value of stepping out of comfort zones and trusting one’s skills.Personal Development: Zoe’s journey from a shy child to a confident business owner shows the importance of personal growth.New Goals: Zoe sets a personal challenge to complete a triathlon, demonstrating her commitment to continuous self-improvement.Notable Quotes:Zoe East: "Most people don't know my initials spell my name. So my name is Zoe Opel East. So my initials are Z.O.E."Michelle: "We don't need, like, millions of the same people."Zoe East: "I dare other women to push themselves out of their comfort zone. Cause I think it always pays off."Michelle: "If you couldn’t do what you’re doing now, what else would you choose to be doing?"Zoe East: "I've always liked the idea of being a firefighter."

Ayesha is a professional stunt performer whose extraordinary journey began with studying classics, philosophy, and politics at university. After a brief stint as a Playboy Bunny, she found her passion in the world of stunts, specializing in edged weapons and marksmanship. Now an accomplished stunt performer, she's part of the British Stunt Register and has worked on high-profile projects like Marvel's Deadpool trilogy, Star Wars, and Gladiator II. Ayesha's unique heritage and background in diverse artistic endeavors have significantly influenced her career path, making her a trailblazer for diversity in the stunt industry.Episode Summary:In this inspiring episode of the "She Who Dares Wins" podcast, host Michelle engages in a deep conversation with Ayesha, an accomplished stunt performer with a rich and varied background. Ayesha shares her unconventional journey from studying classics, philosophy, and politics to becoming a stunt professional known for her work in high-profile projects, including Marvel's Deadpool series and the upcoming Gladiator II. The narrative highlights her shift from being a university student to discovering her passion for performing stunts, especially those involving precision weapons like whips and swords.The episode delves into the challenges Ayesha faced transitioning into the stunt industry at the age of 30, a time when many consider it too late to start such a physically demanding career.Key Takeaways:Ayesha's transition from academic studies to becoming a professional stunt performer.The difficulties and triumphs of entering the stunt industry at 30.Insight into working on major film projects like Deadpool and Star Wars.The importance of community and support systems in male-dominated industries.Ayesha's advocacy for more representation and diversity within the stunt profession.Notable Quotes:"I dared to think that my self-worth was a little bit larger than being a doctor and cooking a rancher party.""I have to really send it right. You just, like, got no choice when you're on set like that in high-pressure scenes.""Honestly, the real tee is breaking the glass ceiling and messing up the system from the inside out.""People are going to judge you either way, so do everything with your whole chest, and people will fall where they may.""There are going to be people that like you; there are going to be people that don't. You have no control over that, so do everything with your whole chest."Follow Ayesha @ayeshaofficialInstagram @shewhodareswinspodcast Tiktok @shewhodareswinsYoutube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@She_who_dares_winsShop our clothing line www.shewhodareswins.com. Use the code POD10 for 10% off

In this bonus episode of "Few Dares Wins," host Michelle sits down with the ever-energetic Gilly for a quick yet insightful conversation that delves into reflections on past self, life mottos, alternative career desires, and personal failures. This episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and genuine advice, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to be inspired by a real-life adventurer.From the outset, Michelle asks Gilly what she would tell her twelve-year-old self, sparking a discussion about the importance of authenticity and being unapologetically oneself. Gilly emphasizes this theme, advocating for people, especially the youth, to embrace their true selves without seeking approval from others. She also shares her intriguing alternative career choice of being a blacksmith, a reflection of her affinity for hands-on, physically engaging work involving fire and hammers.In another segment, Gilly recounts her habitual deviation from recipes, attributing this characteristic to her broader challenge of sticking to uninteresting endeavors. Both Michelle and Gilly humorously discuss their respective culinary mishaps, creating a relatable dialogue that many can identify with. Gilly also addresses her approach to self-care, encouraging listeners to take three minutes daily for mindful breathing or meditation. She underscores the significance of these practices in cultivating a less hectic, more present mindset.Key Takeaways:Be Unapologetically Yourself: Gilly stresses the importance of authenticity and not seeking to fit into societal norms.Just Start: Gilly's motto for life and advice for those hesitant to embark on new ventures.Explore Alternative Passions: Gilly's fascination with blacksmithing as an alternative career highlights the value of exploring diverse interests.Daily Self-Care: The emphasis on allocating even a few minutes daily for mindful activities like meditation to improve mental well-being.Embrace Failure: Discussing culinary mishaps, Gilly and Michelle highlight the value of learning and humor in the face of everyday failures.

Emma WhiteEmma White is a dynamic entrepreneur and skilled jeweler known for her expertise in and passion for the craft of jewelry making. As the founder of a successful jewelry brand, Emma has garnered substantial acclaim and a dedicated following. Besides creating, she also contributes to various magazines and platforms, sharing her knowledge and insights on both jewelry and entrepreneurship. Emma is launching new product ranges and developing her jewelry school, further establishing her as an innovative leader in her field.Episode Summary:In this bonus episode, Michelle hosts Emma White, a talented jewelry maker and entrepreneur, as they dive into the highs and lows of Emma's career. Emma shares a candid look at her professional journey, discussing her greatest fuck-up and turning points that have shaped her career.Emma emphasizes the dual nature of tenacity, pointing out how her relentless pursuit of goals has been both a superpower and a weakness. She talks about the challenges of recognizing when to pivot and let go of ideas that aren't working and contrasts this with the drive to keep pushing forward despite obstacles. Emma also sheds light on her struggles with finding a balance between multiple projects and the importance of mindfulness in her craft.Key Takeaways:The Duality of Tenacity: Emma describes how her superpower of relentless determination can also act as a weakness, especially when it's time to let go of dead-end projects.Recognizing When to Pivot: Understanding when to reallocate energy from underperforming endeavors to new opportunities is crucial for growth.Passion vs. Practicality: Balancing passion projects with strategic business decisions can be tough but necessary for long-term success.Mindfulness in Craft: Emma finds mindfulness and peace in the focused task of jewelry making, which helps quiet her otherwise busy mind.Forward Focused: While Emma acknowledges the importance of enjoying the journey, her natural inclination is to keep looking forward and setting new goals.Notable Quotes:"My superpower is tenacity. Dog with a bone. Don't let go. Keep on keeping on." - Emma White"There have been times when I have just been really determined that something's gonna work, and actually, it's a dead dog and just needing to let it go." - Emma White"You don't know until you try. And that's the key thing." - Emma White"The only time the noise just stops is when I sit down and focus on making something. That is just heaven for me." - Emma White"I wouldn't still be in business if I wasn't as bloody minded. Definitely not." - Emma White

Caz Dawson is an adventurer and professional stand-up paddleboarder (SUP) based in North Wales. Known for tackling extraordinary challenges, Caz has paddled through some of the world's most treacherous waters. Recently, she made history by becoming the first woman to paddleboard a specific stretch of the Amazon River. With a background in coaching and instructing, Caz founded SUP Lass Adventures, where she instructs and guides others in the world of paddleboarding. Her robust background in fitness and endurance training empowers her to help others achieve what they might consider impossible.Episode Summary:In this episode of the "She Dares Wins" podcast, Michelle welcomes Caz Dawson, an intrepid paddleboarder who has recently completed a harrowing yet exhilarating journey down the Amazon River. Kaz recounts the significant challenges she faced, including undergoing emergency gallbladder surgery just three weeks before her expedition. Despite medical advice against it, her mental resilience and physical conditioning propelled her to complete the journey, making her the first woman to complete this specific paddleboarding challenge in the Amazon.Caz opens up about the rigorous twelve-month preparation leading up to her Amazon adventure and how even an unexpected medical emergency and recovery didn't deter her. She describes the daunting enormity of the Amazon River, dealing with uncharted waters, enduring the oppressive heat, and navigating around potentially hostile tribal territories. Caz details the life-changing experiences of encountering exotic wildlife, meeting remote communities, and overcoming the physical and mental hurdles that came with paddling 335 kilometers in six days. She also dives into how she turned her passion for SUP into a thriving business, offering coaching and guided adventures in varied environments, including upcoming trips to Sweden and Norway.Key Takeaways:Mental Resilience: Caz emphasizes the importance of mental strength in overcoming unexpected events, such as her emergency surgery, and pushing through the physical demands of the journey.Preparation and Training: The episode underscores extensive training and preparation, not just in paddleboarding but also in overall fitness, to successfully undertake extreme challenges.Adapting to Environments: Caz shares insights on adapting to different environments, from the heat of the Amazon jungle to the icy waters of the UK, and how that shapes one’s adventure.Cultural Encounters: Listener gets a glimpse into the cultural richness and complexities of the Amazon, including interactions with local communities and navigating territories of uncontacted tribes.Empowerment Through Adventure: Caz speaks about empowering others, especially women, through accessible and affordable paddleboarding adventures, fostering a supportive community.Notable Quotes:"I was so determined that was what came and made me sort of keep really positive." – Caz Dawson"We dream about these big adventures and challenges and this lovely, perfect lead-up… but I ended up having emergency surgery to have my gallbladder removed three weeks before I was due to fly." – Caz Dawson"Talk about daring. I think that was me taking a dare, thinking, will it work? And if it doesn't, then, well." – Caz Dawson"If you can find a way or an environment that is safe, it's friendly, and accessible, then it's a great sport to introduce people to." – Caz Dawson"Be brave enough to suck at something new." – Caz Dawsonwww.shewhodareswins.com use the code POD10 for 10% off the clothing line.

Lara Vafiadis is an adventurer and motivational speaker who gained fame by solo rowing across the Atlantic Ocean for 90 days. Known for her determination and resilience, Lara has become an inspirational figure to many women who aspire to undertake significant challenges. Her incredible journey is not only a testament to her physical strength but also her mental perseverance and relentless pursuit of goals. Lara is dedicated to empowering women through her experiences and often shares her insights on overcoming obstacles and the importance of self-belief.Delving into the core of female empowerment, this episode underscores the essence of embracing like-minded women, never doubting one's capabilities, and the power of self-advocacy. Lara’s experiences shed light on overcoming mental hurdles and reinforce that nothing is out of reach. With compelling anecdotes, personal insights, and actionable tips, Lara encourages women to tap into their inner strength and become their own cheerleaders.Key Takeaways:Surround Yourself with Like-Minded People: Building a community of supportive and inspiring women can be a significant source of motivation.Believe in Your Potential: Understanding that no goal is too big if you have the passion and determination to pursue it.Self-Advocacy is Essential: Women should confidently share their achievements and not feel shy about their accomplishments.Courage to Embrace Challenges: Stepping out of comfort zones and taking on daunting tasks can lead to incredible personal growth.Celebrate Your Journey: Acknowledge and cele

About the Guest(s):Anna Bailey is an outdoor enthusiast and adventurer who discovered her passion for hiking and nature after a significant life change. Having experienced a transformative journey of self-discovery through various outdoor activities, Anna has become an advocate for mental health and the therapeutic effects of nature. She organizes group hikes and participates in several outdoor adventures, making meaningful connections and inspiring others to explore the world outside their comfort zones.Episode Summary:Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Shoe Dares Wins podcast, where we delve into transformative tales of self-discovery and courage. Today, we're joined by Anna Bailey, who shares how she dared to step out of her comfort zone and embrace a life full of adventure after a pivotal breakup. From borrowing hiking boots to conquering rugged terrains, Anna's journey is a testament to the power of nature in healing and personal growth.Anna discusses her initial trepidation about venturing into the outdoors alone and how she overcame these fears by starting small and gradually building her confidence. Her stories highlight the importance of preparation, community, and persistence. She shares insightful tips on easing into hiking, the importance of solo time, and the role of social media in finding like-minded adventurers. Anna's narrative is a rich blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors.Key Takeaways:Small Steps Lead to Big Changes: Anna started her hiking journey by joining her brother, gradually building up her confidence to solo adventures.Mental Health Benefits: The therapeutic effects of nature are underscored as Anna shares how hiking provided her clarity and space amid life changes.Community Support: Instagram and group hikes played a vital role in Anna's journey, helping her connect with others who share her passion.Preparedness is Key: Emphasizing safety, Anna talks about the importance of being well-prepared and knowing one’s limits.Embracing Freedom: Anna’s story highlights a transformational shift in seeking personal happiness and freedom after her breakup.Notable Quotes:"It just gave me a sense of clarity and space that I'd never really had before.""I started to think, well, maybe I could start going out by myself, which was absolutely terrifying.""I’d absolutely love to be one of those people who could jump in, like, two feet first. I envy those people in some way, but I am definitely a worrier.""I do feel like there is that extra barrier to entry for women, for sure.""I just want to encourage people to get out into that space because I really value that solo time as well."Resources:Anna's Instagram out.anna.butShop she who dares wins www.shewhodareswins.com Pod 10 for 10% off Get bonus episodes and support the podcast at patreon https://www.patreon.com/shewhodareswins/membership

Join us for an exhilarating episode of the She Who Dares Wins podcast featuring Eva Outram, an extraordinary adventurer and survivalist who took on the ultimate challenge in the UK's "Alone" survival show. Eva speaks candidly with Michelle about her journey from NHS project management to thriving in the Canadian wilderness, facing her fears, and learning to survive with minimal resources.Eva dives deep into her experience on "Alone," discussing the highs and lows of surviving alone in the Canadian wilderness. From the strenuous preparation and selecting her ten survival items to that fateful decision to finally confront nature head-on. She shares detailed insights on her mental and physical journey, including her strategies for coping with isolation, hunger, and even a nerve-wracking encounter with a bear. Through Eva's story, gain invaluable survival tips and a perspective on the importance of resilience and mental strength.Key Takeaways:Stepping Into the Unknown: Eva emphasized the importance of taking risks and stepping out of one's comfort zone to achieve something remarkable, regardless of initial fears.Mental Resilience: Surviving in extreme isolation teaches valuable lessons in patience and emotional endurance, showcasing how critical mental strength is in overcoming physical challenges.Resourcefulness in Survival: Eva's experience illustrated the necessity of resourcefulness, from choosing survival items to improvising daily shelter and sustenance.Impact on Life Perspective: The stark experience in the wilderness allowed Eva to return with a fresh perspective on life, leading to significant changes in her personal and professional life.Finding Joy: Eva advises imagining the most joyful life one could offer oneself and making incremental changes to incorporate more joy into daily existence.Notable Quotes:Eva: "I'm a big believer in doing things that really scare you."Eva: "I didn't really have any survival skills, per se... But I went on Alone and lived off the land."Eva: "I had my little piece of pemmican, so I chopped that up into, like, 20 tiny, tiny pieces."Eva: "Patience was a big one... it used to take me 4 hours to boil a pan of water to be able to drink something."Eva: "There must be something I'm going to enjoy more than this... I wasn't on autopilot anymore."Resources:Eva Outtrim's Bushcraft Business: [Website link if available]Book mentioned: Untamed by Glennon DoyleFollow Eva Outram on @eva_exploring