In this powerful and moving short story episode, I had the honour of speaking with Bulgarian 🇧🇬 football legend Stiliyan Petrov, just days before he joined global icons Roberto Carlos, Gilberto Silva and Jens Lehmann amongst others for Strive Aid on Sunday, 17th November, raising awareness and funds for the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM).

Stiliyan opens up about his journey, redefining success not only during his stellar football career but also in the face of his battle with leukaemia. His candid reflections on what success meant to him during those challenging years are nothing short of profound.

Through his words, Stiliyan reminds us that:

• Life is not perfect, despite what social media might suggest.
• Vulnerability is not a weakness but a true sign of strength.
• Asking for help is vital—and can make all the difference.

His journey and insights align deeply with my mission to create safe spaces for these conversations and to challenge societal norms. This short yet impactful conversation is a reminder that with role models like Stiliyan, we can continue changing the narrative, breaking stigmas, and championing resilience.

💡 Let this episode inspire you to embrace vulnerability, celebrate resilience, and redefine what it means to succeed.

We’re all in this together 👊🎙️🧢

#DifferentHatsPodcast #MensHealth #CALM #VulnerabilityIsStrength #RedefiningSuccess #LifeLessons #FootballLegend #MentalHealthMatters

Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/7o5mZhzNOUc

Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats

Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible as well as a shout out to the team from Striver and Ryan Alfonso from Fitness Content Agency for filming on the day:

Tim Chase - Striver - https://striver.co.uk/

Ryan Alfonso @fitnesscontentagency

OUR SPONSORS

Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/

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OUR PRODUCERS

H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the first episode of our Unplugged Series, a raw and deeply moving conversation that stands as one of the most emotional and powerful episodes I've ever recorded. This groundbreaking episode, in collaboration with the incredible Agora Clinic, brings together three men to share their intimate journeys through fertility challenges and IVF—a topic often shrouded in silence among men but one that desperately needs to be brought into the light.

Joining me at the table are Tom Webster, Kyriakos Baxevanis, and the remarkable Dr. Carole Gilling-Smith, the founder of Agora Clinic, whose expertise and compassion have been life-changing for each of us. Dr. Carole reveals staggering statistics about male fertility, offering insight into a subject that too often goes unspoken.

Together, we dive into the rollercoaster of emotions that define the journey to parenthood—miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies, failed IVF cycles, and unexplained infertility. Each of us speaks openly, honestly, and vulnerably about the highs, the heartbreaks, and the resilience required to keep moving forward.

This episode isn’t just about sharing stories—it’s about breaking the silence. It's about creating a safe space for men to confront and discuss one of life’s most challenging and stigmatized issues. Through these conversations, I hope to challenge societal norms, break stigmas, and inspire change.

Whether you’ve faced similar struggles, know someone who has, or simply want to understand the depth of this often-overlooked topic, this episode is a must-listen. Together, let’s shine a light on men’s fertility journeys and help rewrite the narrative.

This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a movement.

#InternationalMensDay #MensHealth #MensMentalHealth #FertilityAwareness #MaleFertility #IVFJourney #FertilitySupport #BreakingTheSilence #ParenthoodJourney #MenAndIVF #PodcastEpisode #UnpluggedSeries #MensFertilityTalk #OpenConversations #MentalHealthPodcast #ItsOkayToTalk

#MenTalkingMentalHealth #BreakingStigmas #MensHealthMatters #SupportAndResilience #DifferentHats

Watch the Episode here 🧢 https://youtu.be/hWXhLnkXLgg

Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats

To find our more about the Agora Clinic CLICK HERE 🧢 https://agoraclinic.co.uk/

Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.

OUR SPONSORS

Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/

Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/

Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/

OUR PRODUCERS

H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Guest Producer - Stephen Gilling Ulph https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastian-gilling-ulph-a0419b196/

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Prepare yourself for an inspirational episode in our Short Story Series, where we delve into the defining moments that have shaped some of the most remarkable journeys from the past six seasons. Today, we spotlight a truly powerful conversation with motor racing sensation Jade Goodwin, whose story is as powerful as it is inspiring.

In this compelling Short Story episode, we dive into the incredible resilience and mental toughness of racing driver Jade Goodwin. Jade opens up about the mental challenges she's faced on and off the track, revealing how racing became not just a passion but a lifeline. She shares candidly about the depths of adversity and how she found strength within herself, using racing as both an escape and a training ground for building unwavering mental fortitude.

In a sport where split-second decisions make all the difference, Jade talks about what it means to have resilience – not just to persevere in high-stakes competitions, but to endure life's personal battles. She takes us inside her journey to overcoming struggles and finding purpose through her relentless drive. This episode offers a powerful reminder of how resilience can be cultivated through the darkest times and how determination can push us beyond what we ever thought possible.

From her first podium win, which she describes as “life-saving,” to her ongoing quest for equality in motorsport, Jade’s story is one of triumph, self-discovery, and unbreakable spirit. For her, success isn’t about trophies but about living authentically and finding joy in what you love.

As we explore themes of self-worth, resilience, and breaking through barriers, Jade leaves listeners with invaluable wisdom:

Tune in to hear Jade's inspiring story of resilience, grit, and the mental toughness required to keep moving forward against all odds. Whether you're facing challenges or simply looking to strengthen your own mindset, Jade’s story will leave you inspired and motivated to rise above.

#MotorRacing #JadeGoodwin #FemaleDrivers #Resilience #MentalHealthAwareness #BreakingBarriers #OvercomingAdversity #SuccessRedefined #RacingInspiration #Motorsport #MentalToughness #SelfCare #Vulnerability #CommunitySupport #SelfWorth #SuccessStory #WomenInMotorsport #MotorsportJourney #RacingChallenges #RacingLife #AuthenticLiving #RedefineSuccess #Empowerment #Inspiration #PersonalGrowth #NeverGiveUp #DriveYourDreams

Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/Lc87FP_FUCU

Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats

Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.

OUR SPONSORS

Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/

Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/

Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/

OUR PRODUCERS

H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Prepare yourself for an electrifying episode in our Short Story Series, where we delve into the defining moments that have shaped some of the most remarkable journeys from the past six seasons. Today, we spotlight an unforgettable conversation with award-winning entrepreneur Gary Peters.

This episode remains one of our most popular for a reason. In this powerful short story, Gary opens up about how naivety can be an entrepreneur's greatest gift and the unexpected edge it can provide. He pulls back the curtain on the true experience of running a business—the daily challenges, the relentless knocks, and the unyielding resilience needed to navigate them.

Gary shares the profound lesson that every entrepreneur needs to embrace: we all have good days and bad days, but if we commit to doing our best each day and remember that "this too shall pass," we can endure and thrive.

This episode holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its insights, but because Gary has been a mentor, a source of inspiration, and a great friend over the years. Join us for this inspirational short story and discover why it continues to resonate so deeply with listeners.

#Entrepreneurship #BusinessJourney #Inspiration #Resilience #StartupLife #EntrepreneurMindset #SuccessStories #Leadership #Motivation #EntrepreneurLife #DailyStruggles #Mentorship #LifeLessons #BusinessInsights #PodcastHighlights #ShortStorySeries #BusinessWisdom #OvercomingChallenges #NaivetyAsStrength #ThisTooShallPass #GrowthMindset #EntrepreneurAdvice #LearnFromTheBest #CreativeLeadership #PowerfulConversations #AwardWinningEntrepreneur

Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/Je7WXI_BTjI

Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats

Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.

OUR SPONSORS

Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/

Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/

Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/

OUR PRODUCERS

H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special live episode, we celebrated the launch of The First Widow, the thrilling debut novel by my good friend, author, and accomplished entrepreneur, Rob Starr. Known for his achievements across multiple ventures, including a successful insurance firm and a charitable foundation that has raised over a million pounds for young people, Rob’s story is one of relentless drive and heart.

We dove into his journey—from the early days and his father’s profound influence, which led him to establish the Starr Trust, to his impressive athletic feats like swimming the English Channel, conquering Le Mont Ventoux, and his 52×52 Challenge: completing 52 Olympic triathlons in 52 consecutive weeks. Rob’s spirit is truly unstoppable.

Rob's novel, The First Widow, introduces us to Kiara Fox, a determined fraud investigator whose life takes a dark turn when a high-profile case crosses her desk. As Kiara uncovers dangerous secrets surrounding a seemingly upstanding businessman’s death, she finds herself pulled into a deadly conspiracy, torn between uncovering the truth and protecting her family. Rob shares the inspiration behind Kiara’s character and the compelling themes of resilience and courage woven into the story.

Recorded in front of an amazing live audience, this episode promises a blend of powerful storytelling and inspirational life lessons. Join us as we explore Rob’s remarkable life, his new thriller, and the journey that has shaped him into a powerhouse of passion and purpose.

#TheFirstWidow #RobStarr #BookLaunch #Inspiration #Thriller #Entrepreneur #Insurance

Watch the Live episode here 🧢 https://youtu.be/nncvoW2xysQ

Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats

Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.

OUR SPONSORS

Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/

Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/

Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/

OUR PRODUCERS

H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready for a transformative episode in our Short Story Series, where we uncover the pivotal moments that have defined some of the most extraordinary journeys from the past six seasons. This time, we’re thrilled to feature the endlessly creative and visionary Toby Moore.

Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to craft a TED Talk that resonates with the world? 🗣️

With the highly anticipated December event at the Brighton Dome fast approaching—where TED’s very own Chris Anderson will take the stage for an unforgettable evening—we’re bringing you an inspiring story from one of my most thought-provoking guests, my good friend Toby Moore 🚀.

After a decade of curating TEDxBrighton, Toby dives deep into the art of creating impactful TED Talks, sharing the secrets behind powerful storytelling and the kind of ideas that deserve a global audience. 💡

In this compelling short story, we explore:

❌ Toby’s honest and raw relationship with failure

📈 The surprising ways we measure success and why it matters

🧢 How embracing different roles can unlock new opportunities and experiences

🗣️ The real ingredients needed to create a TED Talk that changes minds and lives

Tune in and let this insightful conversation with Toby Moore ignite your creativity and challenge your perspective.

#TEDTalk #CreativityUnleashed #ChangeMakers #IdeasThatInspire #TransformYourWorld 🌍 #StorytellingMastery

Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/E7-1HSRsWuo

Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats

Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.

OUR SPONSORS

Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/

Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/

Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/

OUR PRODUCERS

H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another powerful instalment of our short story series, where we explore the transformative moments that have shaped some of the most remarkable journeys over the past six seasons. In this episode, we are honored to feature the deeply inspiring Chris Goodman.

This is the question many of us ask when we feel disconnected from our purpose, and it’s the very question Chris Goodman found himself facing in 2020. After nearly two decades as joint CEO of the highly successful Focus Group, Chris had achieved all his financial dreams. Yet, despite reaching the pinnacle of professional success, he found himself battling depression and struggling with his mental health.

Despite his outward achievements, Chris realized that the path to success had come at great personal cost. Two years ago, on World Mental Health Day, we first shared Chris’s story—an open, raw conversation about the true price of success. Today, we revisit this eye-opening episode, one that still resonates deeply.

As Chris poignantly writes in his blog, “It’s good to squawk,” he reflects on the moment he realized:

Chris had followed the script—working hard, building a multi-million-pound business, achieving financial freedom. But in the process, he neglected the most important investment: himself. His story is a powerful reminder that success without self-fulfillment leaves a void that no financial gain can fill.

In this episode, Chris shares his deeply personal journey of realizing that wealth and achievement mean little if you haven’t nurtured your own well-being. It’s a lesson that will resonate with many—those who are on their own journey of self-discovery, striving for more than material success. This conversation offers profound insights on the importance of purpose, balance, and mental health in the pursuit of a fulfilling life.

Chris is not only an inspirational business leader but also a man committed to making a positive impact. He went on to launch, the Focus Foundation, which aims to connect employees, customers, and industry partners to improve lives. By sharing his story so candidly, Chris is already making that impact.

Prepare to be moved and inspired by this episode, just as I was.

#MentalHealthMatters #SelfDiscovery #LeadershipJourney #PurposeAndFulfillment #BusinessSuccess #FocusOnMentalHealth #Inspiration #ChrisGoodmanStory #WellbeingInBusiness #SuccessAndSacrifice #FocusFoundation #MentalHealthAwareness #EntrepreneurLife #PersonalGrowth #LifeBeyondSuccess

Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/P06EkcrmfGM

Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats

Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.

OUR SPONSORS

Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/

Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/

Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/

OUR PRODUCERS

H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to another powerful instalment in our short story series, where we uncover the pivotal moments that have shaped some of the most remarkable journeys over the past six seasons. In this episode, we’re honored to feature the extraordinary Rob Starr.

In this deeply moving conversation, Rob shares the incredible origin story of the Starr Trust. After the devastating loss of his father and with his business on the brink of collapse, Rob took out a £20,000 bank loan in a last-ditch effort to save it. But a chance encounter with his father’s window cleaner brought him back to the core values his dad had instilled in him—face your problems head-on and take action.

Instead of using the loan to salvage his business, Rob made a bold decision: he gave the money away to help a young adult in need. This selfless act sparked something extraordinary. Donations began to pour in, and with the support of his sister Tracey, the Starr Trust was born—an organization created to honor their father’s legacy by empowering young people. Over the past 16 years, the Starr Trust has raised over a million pounds and supported more than 4,000 young adults, proving that all it takes is for someone to believe in you and offer an opportunity, just as Rob’s father had believed in him.

Rob’s journey is a testament to resilience, generosity, and the profound impact of living with purpose. He is truly one of the most inspiring individuals I’ve had the pleasure of hosting on this podcast, and this short story showcases why.

This is the powerful message Rob leaves us with, and it’s a mantra he continues to live by. Since recording this episode, Rob has released his debut novel, The First Widow, which is available on Amazon and will also be featured at the Different Hats Live Show 'Book Launch' on Monday, October 21st.

#StarrTrust #RobStarr #LegacyOfHope #EmpoweringYouth #Resilience #FacingChallenges #DoItNow #InspiringJourneys #GivingBack #ChangingLives #YouthEmpowerment #BuildingCommunity #OvercomingAdversity #PodcastInspiration #DifferentHatsLive

Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/E3OOPEeFNiU

Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats

The First Widow

Book your ticket for the Book Launch CLICK HERE

Buy the Book Here - CLICK HERE

Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.

OUR SPONSORS

Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/

Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/

Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/

OUR PRODUCERS

H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.