The Lit Fantastic is a podcast series about authors and their obsessions. Each episode features host Neil Aitken in conversation with writers of poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction at various stages of their careers.
…
continue reading
Access to Inspiration is a not-for-profit podcast dedicated to uplifting and motivating listeners through compelling conversations with extraordinary individuals. The show features guests from more than 30 countries who have pushed boundaries, explored the unknown, and made significant impacts in their respective areas. Topics range from business and adventure, to the arts and social change. Each episode delves into the personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs of these inspiring figures, ...
…
continue reading
Jim Drury - Author of the acclaimed Song by Song book series, TV journalist & producer.
…
continue reading
Intro – Hi, my names Kyle Aitken and this is a short documentary about the problems of Cyber Security at work. Interview 1 – Hello my names Neil Martin, I don’t know wither that’s the first thing I shouldn’t be saying, given the fact were talking about security. But since you don’t know where I am or where I live, we should be ok at that level. I work as an internet and security specialist, em, I work in mainly the financial sector, but also in various other business areas. Em, I specialize ...
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
128. Ricardo Brito: From Burnout to Breakthrough - Reinventing your Career
27:14
27:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:14
In this episode host Sue Stockdale talks to Ricardo Brito about his journey of experiencing burnout and how it led him to a pivotal moment of realisation. Ricardo reflects on the challenging work environment, dissatisfaction with the tech world, and the breaking point that made him reassess his path. About Ricardo Brito Ricardo Brito is a career an…
…
continue reading
Sue Stockdale previews upcoming Series 18 and describes the typical diversity and range of guests that appear on the podcast. In Series 18 there will be a guest hosted episode and another featuring a guest recommended to us by a previous podcast guest. Connect with Access to Inspiration: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn If you are enjoying…
…
continue reading
In this bonus episode of the Access to Inspiration podcast, host Sue Stockdale announces the release of the 2024 Impact Report, highlighting the podcast's achievements and how it creates a social impact. Listeners share their love for the inspiring conversations and the hidden gems found in each episode. Read the Impact Report on the website Notabl…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
127. Monique Maissan: Recycling plastic waste into textiles
34:25
34:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:25
Sue Stockdale talks to Monique Maissan, CEO of Waste2Wear about her entrepreneurial journey to manufacture textiles from recycled plastic bottles. Monique saw an opportunity to make a positive impact in the textile industry, one of the most polluting industries in the world, and pivoted her business to focus on this. Monique emphasises the importan…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
126. Sofia Heinonen: Rewilding Argentina and beyond
35:41
35:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:41
Sue Stockdale talks to Sofia Heinonen, Executive Director of Rewilding Argentina. Sofia shares her journey from a young girl fascinated by the natural world to leading significant conservation efforts in Argentina and beyond. She discusses her initial work in national parks and how her encounter with conservationists Doug and Kris Tompkins profound…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
125. Jeremy Fish and Lucy Constable Fernandez: The Enduring Impact of Raleigh International
36:29
36:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:29
Sue Stockdale explores the transformative power of Raleigh International expeditions with Lucy Constable Fernandez and Jeremy Fish. Since the organisation was launched in 1978 by Colonel John Blashford-Snell, more than 50,000 individuals have participated in expeditions around the world. Sue discovers the impact that it has had, and how the organis…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
124. Neil Wightwick: Transforming lives through nature's classroom
27:41
27:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:41
In episode 124 we delve into the world of outdoor education with Neil Wightwick, a leading figure in driving national policy in Scotland to make outdoor education accessible to all. Discover how outdoor environments can become powerful classrooms and how physical challenges can foster growth and curiosity in students. Neil shares his passion for va…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
123. Danielle McDonough: The power of mindset on athletic performance
35:22
35:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:22
In episode 123 we explore the world of sports and mindset mastery with Danielle McDonough, a former professional ice hockey player turned mindset coach. Danielle shares her journey from the ice rink to coaching, emphasising the importance of overcoming self-doubt to achieve peak performance. Host Sue Stockdale talks to Danielle about athlete psycho…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
122. Roderick Aitken: Sourcing sustainable timber
32:06
32:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:06
In episode 122, host Sue Stockdale explores the delicate balance between commerce and conservation in the world of forestry with guest Roderick Aitken. As a fifth-generation family business in Scotland importing tropical wood, Roddy shares insights on sustainable practices and the collective responsibility we have towards the planet, discusses the …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
121. Arild Nydegger Øvre-Eide and Gyrid Dahl: Embracing Change and Tradition in Norwegian Farming
28:03
28:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:03
In this episode host Sue Stockdale talks to Arild Nydegger Øvre-Eide and Gyrid Dahl, from Øvre-Eide farm in Bergen, Norway. Arild, the fifth-generation owner of a small farm, discusses his decision to become a farmer and how his father's support played a role in his journey. Gyrid who works at the farm explains what motivated her to change career f…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
120. Robert Thirsk: From medicine to Mars - Insights from over 200 days in space
30:56
30:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:56
In this guest-hosted episode Clive Steeper from episode 1 talks to engineer, physician, and former astronaut Dr. Robert Thirsk about the preparation and training needed for astronauts to operate effectively on space missions, and how these skills are also relevant for leadership more generally. Robert reflects on training for astronauts, non-techni…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
119. Reanne Olivier: Empowering African Youth
26:20
26:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:20
In podcast episode 119, Reanne Olivier, co-founder of Africa Matters Initiative talks to Sue Stockdale about how her first journey to South Africa was sparked by her parents' curiosity and exploration of the continent. This led her to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about Africa, and ultimately shape her passion for making a difference. By…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
118. Kate Leeming: From Africa to Australia: Exploring the world by bicycle
27:43
27:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:43
In episode 118 Sue Stockdale interviews Australian adventurer Kate Leeming. Kate has cycled almost 100,000km completing major journeys around the world. She became the first person to cycle an unbroken line from Africa's most westerly to its most easterly point. Sue explores the motivations behind Kate's adventures and the impact she aims to make t…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
117. Sue Stockdale: Building trust and psychological safety
31:41
31:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:41
In episode 117 former guest Dr. Nashater Deu Solheim (episode 49) talks to Sue Stockdale. Sue discusses her experiences as an adventurer and athlete, focusing on her expedition to the Magnetic North Pole. She talks about her initial curiosity and decision to apply for the expedition, as well as the challenges she faced in raising funds and preparin…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
116. Bruce Parker: The opportunity that was too good to be true
37:45
37:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:45
This episode explores the concept of sliding doors moments and emphasises the importance of trusting oneself and finding stillness and clarity in life. Host Sue Stockdale interviews singer and entertainer Bruce Parker. They discuss Bruce's love for soul and Motown music, which he grew up with in Inglewood, Los Angeles. Bruce shares his experiences …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
115. Georgina Bark: Exploring the craft of dry stone walling
27:36
27:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:36
Sue Stockdale speaks with Georgina Bark, also known as Bo, a dry stone waller. Bo shares her journey of leaving an office job behind to pursue a career outdoors and why she enjoys her work. Bo emphasises that problem-solving is a crucial aspect of her job, both in building walls and repairing them and offers advice to listeners, encouraging them to…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
114. Aneela Rose: Balancing Powerlifting, Business, and Family
34:03
34:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:03
Sue Stockdale interviews Aneela Rose, the founder of PR agency Rose Media Group and world and British powerlifting champion. Aneela shares her journey of embracing a growth mindset and how it transformed her life personally and professionally. Learn about Aneela's challenges of balancing work, family, and personal interests, the importance of maint…
…
continue reading
Sue Stockdale previews Series 16 of Access to Inspiration podcast highlighting some of the guests to be featured over the next few weeks - including: Georgina Bark, known as Bo shares her passion for dry stone walling. We will also discuss the solo nature of dry stone walling with Bo talking about how she enjoys the sounds of nature while working o…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
113. Elise Wortley: Finding inspiration in nature
25:10
25:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:10
In this episode, Elise Wortley joins Sue Stockdale to discuss her adventure in the Canadian wilderness for the Channel 4 TV show "Alone". She shares her experience being dropped in the middle of nowhere and having to fend for herself in the wild. Elise reflects on the challenges and rewards of immersing herself in nature, including hunting for food…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
112. Bettina Ovgaard: The wonder of Greenland
36:17
36:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:17
Host Sue Stockdale interviews Bettina Ovgaard, a versatile professional who has pursued a career by following her curiosity. Bettina shares her experiences working in various industries, including costume design for film, leading tours in the Arctic, and serving as Chief of Civil-Military Cooperation for Joint Arctic Command. They delve into Bettin…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
111. Paulo Savaget: Unlocking potential where others see scarcity
29:24
29:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:24
Have you ever come up against rules, procedures, or obstacles that make it incredibly difficult to create change? This week's guest shares some brilliant examples of organisations that have successfully overcome these challenges. Sue Stockdale interviews Paolo Savaget, Associate Professor at Oxford University, about his work in transforming unjust …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
110. Dr. Poornima Luthra: Demonstrating active allyship
31:20
31:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:20
In episode 110, host Sue Stockdale interviews Dr Poornima Luthra, an associate professor at Copenhagen Business School. They explore the concept of active allyship and discuss ways to overcome the fear of saying or doing the wrong thing when supporting diversity and inclusion within organizations. Poornima is the founder and CEO of TalentED Consult…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
109. Monica Parker: Exploring the power of awe and wonder
25:36
25:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:36
Slowing down and engaging in activities that quiet the brain can bring more wonder into our lives. Monica Parker talks to host, Sue Stockdale about how practicing mindfulness and being observant allows us to cultivate a slower thought process, which is essential for experiencing wonder. Additionally, exposing ourselves to new ideas, new perspective…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
108. Kevin Chapman: Discovering our physical intelligence
30:08
30:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:08
In this episode, host Sue Stockdale welcomes Kevin Chapman, co-founder of the Physical Intelligence Institute. Kevin shares his passion for helping people perform at their best by understanding and utilizing the full potential of their bodies. He introduces the concept of physical intelligence and explores how our bodies can impact our confidence a…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
107. Gary Fildes: Being inspired by dark skies and stars
29:59
29:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:59
In episode 107 of the Access to Inspiration podcast, host Sue Stockdale interviews Gary Fildes, an astronomer and the founder of the Keilder Observatory in the UK. Gary's passion for astronomy and his encyclopedic knowledge of the subject have contributed to the success of the observatories he has worked at. They discuss the distinction between bei…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
106. Bertrand Piccard: Combining science and adventure to tackle climate challenges
33:42
33:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:42
In today's world, the term "ecology" often evokes images of sacrifice, expense, and inconvenience. In this final episode of our Climate Solutions series, renowned explorer and environmentalist, Bertrand Piccard explains why focusing on ecology is not only profitable but also exciting. Piccard is best known for his groundbreaking achievements in exp…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
105. Professor Dame Anne Glover: The importance of communication in science
35:19
35:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:19
In this episode of our podcast, host Sue Stockdale talks to Professor Dame Anne Glover, President of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. Anne emphasizes the importance of effective communication in science and geography. Whether it's encouraging more people to pursue science or communicating the importance of research findings, clear and effec…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
104. Roisin Hyde: Reducing the environmental impact of concrete
32:57
32:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:57
Concrete is one of the most widely used building materials in the world, with one third of global resources going into its production. However, the production of concrete has a significant impact on the environment, and there is a growing need for sustainable alternatives. Host Sue Stockdale interviews Roisin Hyde, a chartered architect specialisin…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
103. Iain Stewart: Empowering communities to adapt to climate change
33:21
33:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:21
In this episode, Iain Stewart, an expert in geoscience and sustainability, highlights the need for the scientific community to communicate differently to engage communities in developing sustainable climate solutions, learning to move away from the 'tell and sell' approach, to one of 'sense and respond' in order to build trust. Iain explains to hos…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
102. Jojo Mehta: Making change through policy and law
30:30
30:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:30
Sue Stockdale interviews Jojo Mehta, the co-founder and executive director of Stop Ecocide International who talks about the organisations mission of advocating for the criminalisation of ecocide and make the destruction of nature a global crime. Jojo Mehta co-founded Stop Ecocide in 2017, alongside barrister and legal pioneer the late Polly Higgin…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
101. Mike Robinson: Collaborating for climate solutions
34:41
34:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:41
Sue Stockdale talks to Mike Robinson, Chief Executive of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society (RSGS) about his adventurous and philanthropic background, and how experience on an expedition to Borneo inspired him to give back to the environment. Mike also describes his work at the Royal Scottish Geographical Society, its function as a small chari…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
100. Simeon Wood: Music makes you feel good
40:04
40:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:04
Sue Stockdale welcomes Simeon Wood, a multi-talented musician, educator, and composer, to celebrate the Access to Inspiration podcast's 100th episode. Simeon shares tales of his 30-year journey as a guest entertainer perfoming all over the world in concert halls, on cruise ships, and even in a prison. Simeon describes his two homemade instruments -…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
99. Vic Ferrari: From Bronx kid to NYPD Detective
27:28
27:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:28
Who would have thought that a Bronx-born rookie cop would go on to become a successful author, giving readers an intimate look into the world of law enforcement? In conversation with host Sue Stockdale, Vic Ferrari talks about the powerful connection between his deep love for the NYPD and his mission to share his experiences through his writing. Gr…
…
continue reading
In episode 98, Berit Lewis shares her personal story of how she arrived at her area of interest in helping people over 50 in their later years of life. Berit talks about how she found a passion for psychology, mindfulness and learning to regulate her physical sensations as a way to manage her thoughts and emotions. This theme of primary and seconda…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
97. Roshni Pandey: Embracing freedom and openness for creativity and risk-taking
28:20
28:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:20
Roshni Pandey, who is Indian by ethnicity, Fijian by birth, Australian by citizenship, & Singaporean by residence, explains how her experience of freedom, imagination and creativity as a youngster influences her work today as a creative strategy consultant, angel investor and social entrepreneur. She reflects on how self-imposed limitations can get…
…
continue reading
Judith Keys talks to Sue Stockdale about how the ups and downs of emigrating to live and work in France. She explains what prompted her to move, how she initially found it difficult to integrate into the French way of life, and what helped her to adapt. Originally from Ireland, Judith has now lived in Provence for over 10 years. In 2013 she left he…
…
continue reading
Ray Martin created his own path in life after facing a crisis. In 2005, shattered by divorce and the loss of his father, he decided to let go of being a successful business leader to embark on a journey of reinvention by taking a six-month sabbatical which ended up lasting fourteen years. He explains to host, Sue Stockdale what he learned from this…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
94. Faisal Hoque: Bringing mindfulness to work and life
26:50
26:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:50
Faisal Hoque talks to host, Sue Stockdale about how mindfulness has helped him in his life and work by enabling him to be present, patient and accepting the different circumstances he has found himself in. Whether it was at university where he had to work several jobs whilst studying, being let go by the investors that took control of the company h…
…
continue reading
Clive Steeper and Sue Stockdale, founders of Access to Inspiration podcast, reflect on the recent guest-hosted series and the key insights that they gained including: The value of reflection How to overcome fears and step into the unknown The importance of leadership and self-leadership This series is kindly supported by Squadcast –the remote recor…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
93. Andrew Freear: How Rural Studio creates sustainable impact
40:38
40:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:38
In our final guest-hosted episode, researcher and designer Josh Wasserman, from episode 44 talks to Andrew Freear, Director of Rural Studio which part of the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture of Auburn University. Freear lives in a small rural community in Hale County, West Alabama, where for twenty years he has directed t…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
92. Cori Myka: Helping non-swimmers overcome fear of deep water
28:59
28:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:59
Cori Myka, from Orca Swim School talks to Rob Lawrence (from episode 42) about how she supports adult non-swimmers who often have a fear of deep water, to realize their dreams. And it's all to do with healing the mind. You will learn how she teaches learners remotely to help them become aware of their thoughts and change their subsequent behaviour.…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
91. Pierre Heistein: Recording the story of the Atuel River
32:58
32:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:58
Pierre Heistein talks to Brendan Davis, from episode 58, about the documentary film he made telling the story of Atuel River in Mendoza region, Argentina. In 2020 there were protests against the overturning of a water protection law that had successfully kept water-intensive mining projects out of the Mendoza province, the largest wine-producing re…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
90. Dr. James Kisia: Using mentorship to cultivate leadership in Africa
35:28
35:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:28
In the first of our series of guest-hosted episodes Racheal Wanjiku Kigame, Country Director, Help a Child Africa, who was a guest on episode 12 talks to her mentor Dr. James Kisia about using mentorship to cultivate leadership in Africa. They discuss: why leaders must listen and be curious why mentors should '‘walk their talk’ if they want to enco…
…
continue reading
Sue Stockdale previews the guest-hosted episodes that will be featured in Series 12. They are: Dr. James Kisia talks to guest host Racheal Wanjiku Kigame from episode 12 about using mentorship to cultivate leadership in Africa Pierre Heistein talks to guest host Brendan Davis from episode 58 about recording the story of the Atuel River Cori Myka ta…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Bonus episode. John-David Bartoe: An astronaut going into space
24:13
24:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:13
During this month we are republishing some of our most popular episodes. Dr. John-David F. Bartoe is a retired astronaut and former Research Manager of the International Space Station. He has travelled over 2.8 million miles and logged over 190 hours in space. In this episode Dr Bartoe talks to Sue Stockdale about his experience as an astronaut, wh…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Bonus episode. Jennifer Wilde & Dan McClure: Systems Innovation
32:35
32:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:35
During December we are republishing a few of our most popular episodes. This week it's Jennifer Wilde & Dan McClure talking about Systems innovation. It was first broadcast on 26th Jan 2022 as episode 59. Jen and Dan explain how to reimagine systems when addressing big challenges, such as organisational change or the aftermath of a humanitarian dis…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Bonus episode. Palwasha Siddiqi: A refugee's road to success
27:00
27:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:00
During December we are republishing a few of our most popular episodes. This week Sue Stockdale talks to Palwasha Siddiqi, whose early childhood experiences as a refugee shaped her interest in helping others to maximise their potential. Palwasha was born and raised between Afghanistan and Pakistan. When she was seven her family fled the civil war i…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
89. Alex van den Heever: The mindset of a wildlife tracker
39:23
39:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:23
Sue Stockdale talks to Alex van den Heever, a wildlife tracker and author who worked for many years at the famous Londolozi Game Reserve in South Africa. He served in numerous roles, as a safari guide, tracker and ultimately had full responsibility for the reserve’s environment. Alex describes the ancient skill of tracking and how it relates to mod…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
88. Nic Parmaksizian: How to create an environment that encourages innovation
25:29
25:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:29
Global CEO of Designit, Nic Parmaksizian talks to Sue Stockdale about why he is passionate about creativity and innovation. Nic outlines how leaders can create environments that encourage innovation, and why ambidexterity is needed to be able to focus on both profitability today and tomorrow. An accomplished global business executive, Nic is known …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
87. Dr. Sarah Gilchrist: Managing your sleep
25:44
25:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:44
Sue Stockdale talks to Dr. Sarah Gilchrist about the subject of sleep. With over 60% of the British population reporting that they have poor sleep quality, and an estimated 1 in 3 suffering from insomnia or sleep deprivation, it’s a topic that has a significant impact on our health and wellbeing. Dr. Sarah Gilchrist FBASES spent over 20 years worki…
…
continue reading