Big Balance Theory: Recent Episodes
Sarah Cripps
Big Balance Theory with Sarah Cripps is a podcast that highlights a new sense of balance from lockdown. Whether we refocused, reset, resigned or revisited, it was a transformational time. In conversations with our guests we hear their lockdown stories and ask them to choose 3 words to mark their themes for getting happiness and joy from a more balanced life.
Knowing You… because every person has a story worth knowing.
What happens when life changes beyond anything you could ever have imagined?
In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with Em Melrose, whose life was turned upside down during 2019 and 2020 when she experienced three significant losses, including the death of her husband and business partner.
Many people would understand if grief became the defining chapter of their lives.
Not Em.
Five years on, she describes that heartbreaking period as "the gift of grief"—not because she would ever choose it, but because of what it taught her about love, purpose, resilience and truly living.
Today, Em helps individuals and organisations understand grief, support others through loss and create healthier conversations around one of life's most universal experiences.
Our conversation explores:
- Living through unimaginable loss.
- Why grief isn't something to "get over".
- The lessons that transformed pain into purpose.
- Supporting people and workplaces to manage grief with compassion.
- Why Em genuinely considers her life to be blessed.
As always on Knowing You, we finish with four questions that reveal even more about the person behind the story.
Em shares:
- What a life lived well looks like: being kind, living with no regrets, looking after your body and finding ways to truly experience life.
- What she'd write for the next chapter of her life script.
- Who she'd choose to play her in a film.
- The one book she would never, ever lend out.
This is a conversation about loss, hope, courage and perspective.
Whether you've experienced grief yourself or want to better understand someone who has, Em's story is one that will stay with you long after the episode ends.
Because every person has a story worth knowing... ...and this one may just change how you think about living.
Your host Sarah Crippps
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-melrose/
Our guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-melrose/
What does it take to build a successful business, become a present father, a sought-after speaker, and a mentor to the next generation all while defying every expectation set by your earliest results? Gafyn Stiff is living proof that your starting point is never your finishing line.
In our conversation Gafyn brings the kind of warmth, wit and wisdom that only comes from someone who has genuinely lived their values. He shares:
The A-Level Plot Twist
Glan Cleaning - 16 Years of Honest Graft
The Day That Changed Everything
Mentoring Young Entrepreneurs
The Bravest Thing He's Ever Done
His Actor Alter-Ego: Clive Owen
Episode Highlights
• Why failed exams can be the best thing that ever happens to you
• The link between losing someone you love and learning to truly live
• What authentic leadership in business actually looks like day to day
• 16 years running Glan Cleaning the real philosophy behind it
• The responsibility we have to the next generation of young entrepreneurs
• Three words that sum up a life at 55: Not Done Yet
Guest details:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gafynstiff/
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
This episode might just be the one that resets your entire perspective on life. Sharon Neville - known to many as Mad Frog – is one of those rare humans who radiates such genuine warmth, positivity, and energy that you come away wondering if you've been doing life slightly wrong.
I went into this conversation thinking of myself as a positive person. I came out the other side knowing I've got work to do.
The year that changed everything Sharon turns 50 this year, and it's no coincidence that age 21 feels like the hinge point of her life. She was 3.5 stone heavier, and something shifted. A love and passion for fitness was born and it never, ever waned.
Surviving cancer and choosing to compete Last year, Sharon faced a diagnosis and a mastectomy. This year, she's entering the Tenby Ironman in September. Not despite what happened but because of it. This is what IT IS HISTORY looks like in practice.
Brian – a father, a hero, a fingerprint Sharon is the eldest of three siblings. Her dad Brian raised all three of them solo from when she was just four years old. He passed away last year from cancer and in one of the most quietly devastating moments of this conversation, Sharon tells us what it was like to share her own cancer news with him while he was dying. His response was heartfelt, warm, and completely surprising.
Keeping him close Sharon and her brother snowboarded in Japan this year in his memory. There's an unexplainable moment involving a keyring bearing the name Brian – a life moment that can't be explained.
Her three words: IT IS HISTORY When you hear the context behind these three words, you'll understand why mindset really is everything. This is the moment to listen out for.
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
There are people who walk into your life and quietly make everything better. For me, Mick Green, affectionately known as "Beau Pere", thanks to our shared love of all things French, is exactly that person. My stepfather. My second dad, and one of the most positive, humble and genuinely inspiring human beings I know. At 80 years old, Mick is navigating three significant health challenges that have fundamentally reshaped the way he lives. And yet, when you sit with him, what strikes you most is not what he's lost but how grateful he is for what remains. In this conversation, we go deep. Mick shares his three words - Many Missed Opportunities. It's a phrase loaded with honesty and reflection, but as the conversation unfolds, something quietly shifts. Because alongside the missed opportunities, Mick begins to recognise the unexpected ones. The doors that opened sideways. The gifts that arrived in disguise. He admits something quietly courageous: he allows himself to cry once a month. Not as a sign of defeat, but as a release, a conscious act of emotional permission in a life otherwise defined by optimism. We talk about his passion for outer space, a lifelong love that hasn't dimmed a single watt. And if one dream could be granted? Mick would strap himself into a rocket, solo, and go. We find out exactly what he'd take to read and listen to on the journey. And then there's my mum. When Mick describes life with her, his happiest chapter, you feel it. A big softie at heart. This episode is about resilience without bitterness. About ageing with grace, curiosity and love.
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
The Backdrop This one's a little different. We recorded this conversation whilst summiting Skirrid in Wales, so yes, you may hear walkers, dogs, and the odd plane in the background. That felt entirely right for a conversation about the outdoors. Rachel is on a personal mission to touch 50 trig points, and for Sarah, this was another step in becoming more of a Welsh tourist than a Welsh resident!
Rachel's Three Words
Simplify - Stripping back the busyness and finding space to breathe. Less noise, more intention.
Connections - Rachel describes herself as an introvert and not a natural conversationalist. And yet, she's discovered the genuine joy that comes from starting a conversation with a stranger outdoors. A reminder that connection doesn't require extroversion just courage.
Outdoors - No surprise there. But what is surprising is just how deep the roots go…
Rachel's love of the outdoors was planted early. Her parents ran outdoor activities, and from around age eight, her weekends were spent on Dartmoor learning bushcraft, finding letterboxes, and earning badges for each new skill. Those proud moments shaped something that never left her.
What's beautiful is that her true purpose - using the outdoors to make a real difference for women - didn't fully reveal itself until her 40s. And yet, looking back, every step was leading here: waitressing, working in telecoms, rural transport. Each role quietly building the person who would one day create RJ Fitness.
It's never too late for the dream.
Threads Running Through This Conversation
- The power of small tweaks - never underestimate them
- Why doom scrolling is such an easy trap to fall into, and a brilliant alternative Rachel suggests
- How something unexpected or difficult can always, in time, turn out for the best
- The quiet joy of helping others - something Rachel has carried her whole life
Connect with Rachel & RJ Fitness
www.rjfitness.co.uk
email: hello@rjfitness.co.uk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelnichollsworcs/
Instagram and Facebook - @rjfitnessandcoaching
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
What better way to mark a milestone birthday than sitting down for a proper conversation? In this special episode, Sarah grabs the opportunity to record her mum, Dianne, on her 80th birthday and what a story she has to tell.
Dianne's three words - mother, grandmother, great grandmother - say so much about a woman who has poured her life into the people she loves. She looks wonderful for her age and brings a warmth, humour and youthful energy to everything she does.
In this conversation, Sarah and Dianne explore what life looked like growing up in a very different Britain from the expectations placed on girls who attended a Secondary Modern school (where university simply wasn't seen as the path for you), to the quiet determination Dianne had to do "home work" so she could stay at home and raise her three children.
We also hear about Dianne's early working life and it's an insightful glimpse into a bygone era. She landed her first job in a shoe shop and clearly thrived, earning a promotion after just six weeks. But her mum had other ideas. Hairdressing was the dream she had for her daughter, and so Dianne took an apprenticeship an example of how the women in our lives shape not just who we are, but the paths we take.
But it's the more tender moments that came to the surface. Dianne lost her mum when she was just 16, and then, only 12 months later, her much loved grandma aged just 65. Losing both of them in such quick succession could have been devastating, but Dianne speaks movingly about the profound influence her grandma had on her - games of ludo, cards, and an abundance of love that clearly shaped the woman she became.
This is an episode about memory, resilience, the changing face of society, and what it means to carry the people you've loved forward into the next generation.
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
From personal loss to professional purpose, a deeply human conversation about time, leadership, and the power of seeing things differently.
In this episode of Knowing You, we begin with a light-hearted moment, exploring how even AI struggles to pronounce Welsh words correctly, before moving into a deeply human and powerful conversation.
We discuss the importance of face-to-face connection, particularly for those who are neurodiverse, and how an increasingly digital world can both support and challenge meaningful interaction.
Our guest shares three words that define his journey so far:
SISTER A profoundly moving account of losing his sister in her early 20s. This life-altering moment reshaped his perspective, teaching him not to waste time, not to take life for granted, and not to take it too seriously.
PHARMACY Following this loss, he reflects on how it changed his relationship with his career, taking his work more seriously and finding deeper meaning in it.
GENERATION Q A pivotal postgraduate programme that transformed his thinking. What were once dismissed as "fluffy skills" became the foundation of his career in Quality Improvement, opening his eyes to the power of continuous improvement and the untapped knowledge of frontline teams.
We explore:
- Why those closest to the work often hold the best insights
- His perspective on the next generation on navigating the pressures of social media while holding strong values around sustainability, balance, and adaptability
- The influence of his father, who reminded him not to take life too seriously
- The evolving conversation around mental health - progress we've made, and where we still need to build resilience and personal responsibility
A recurring theme throughout is energy and how he visibly lights up when talking about being outside:
- Outside the everyday way of thinking
- Outside in nature
- Outside in open, honest conversation
A powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest shifts come when we step beyond the familiar.
We end with his choice of actor to play his life story – Sean Bean.
Our guest:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulgimson/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/auralapothecary/
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
In this episode of Knowing You, Sarah Cripps speaks with Sarah McDowell, co-host of the SEO Mindset Podcast a show that fills an important gap in the SEO world by exploring mental health, career development and personal growth in the industry.
Interestingly, digital marketing wasn't even a career path when Sarah was at school. With a background in performing arts and a degree in dance, she took a strategic step after university applying for a reception role at a digital marketing agency just to get a foot in the door.
Collaboration is a key theme throughout Sarah's work. Whether hosting podcasts, working with partners in the SEO industry, or running her digital marketing company, she thrives on bringing people together.
Some of Sarah's guiding beliefs include:
"You never want to lose love with what you're doing."
"If there's something new that scares you, just go for it."
She also gets a real buzz from supporting others in the industry:
"Lots of people come up with excuses and lack confidence and I love to be their cheerleader."
This episode is a reminder that careers don't always follow a straight line and sometimes the best opportunities come from simply getting your foot in the door and saying yes to something new.
The guest
https://Sarahmcdowell.co.uk
www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmcduk
www.instagram.com/sarahmcduk
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
What happens when a lifelong traveller decides to step behind the curtain of the travel industry?
In this episode of Knowing You, I'm joined by Susie Cottrell, a woman whose life has been shaped by curiosity, global adventure and a deep belief that experiences matter more than possessions.
After more than 15 years as a loyal client of Travel Counsellors, Susie made the leap two years ago to join the company herself - a decision that felt entirely natural after years of trusting the brand with her own travels.
But our conversation comes at an extraordinary moment. While we recorded, Susie had been working around the clock - unpaid and entirely driven by care for her clients - helping to repatriate travellers caught up in the disruption caused by the war in the Middle East and its ripple effects across global travel.
Travel, flexibility and perspective are deeply embedded in Susie's family life. Having lived and travelled across the world, they've learned to change direction at the spin of a coin. For them, home isn't bricks and mortar, it's wherever life and opportunity take them next.
Family values run through everything they do. Susie shares stories about her children's ambitions and the philosophy that guides them all:
Success isn't measured in wealth — it's measured in happiness.
(Although, she admits with a smile, one daughter does rather enjoy spending!)
We also talk about:
· Why Travel Counsellors felt like the obvious career move
· The reality of working in travel during global disruption
· Why experiences and the environment come before possessions
· Raising children with a global outlook
· The belief that their family hasn't lived in their final country yet
· And the actress Susie would love to play her in a film of her life (spoiler: the wardrobe would be everything)
Susie is also about to launch her own podcast, where she plans to share a refreshingly honest look at cities and countries around the world; the wonderful, the unexpected, and the realities behind the postcards.
One thing is clear: Susie is someone who has found the sweet spot where passion and purpose meet.
And the travel industry is better for it.
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
In this episode of Knowing You, I sit down with Lisa Hicks - self-described "Marmite" person, accidental innovator, engineer-minded problem solver, and founding CEO of SNOAP.
This conversation is alarmingly informative, passionate, enlightening and deeply warm.
What began as a moment of stillness during the chaos of COVID became an epiphany. A family of five, suddenly home together, started noticing just how much rubbish they produced especially plastic bottles of liquid "soap" gels.
With an engineering mindset and a refusal to accept "that's just how it is", Lisa reimagined the humble soap bar. The result? A dispenser that removes the slime, the mess, and yes - the "boys' hairs" - while keeping all the goodness of traditional bar soap. Practical innovation with purpose.
Lisa's journey took her to the den on Dragon's Den where all five dragons bid for a share of her business. But behind that pitch was real life throwing curveballs:
- A son mid A-levels
- A daughter mid GCSEs
- And the sudden death of her beloved 'best dad ever', her role model
"Until your back's against the wall, you don't know what you're capable of."
We also explore some uncomfortable truths:
- We are not as geared up for recycling as we think
- We are often greenwashed and brainwashed by botanical-looking packaging
- Feeling virtuous doesn't always mean we're making impact
Lisa speaks powerfully about clarity, how it comes in the quiet. She runs and walks in the woods because physical activity equals mental clarity.
Her family remain at the heart of SNOAP, involved in testing, naming, and challenging ideas. And despite the media narrative about the younger generation, all three of her children are pursuing careers rooted in purpose, not pounds.
If you care about sustainability, innovation, family, resilience or simply honest conversations about what it really takes to build something that matters this episode is for you.
Contact and additional information at:
Lisa Hicks:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-snoap/
https://snoap.com
https://www.instagram.com/stories/snoapuk/3843807391695803961/
Contact and additional information at:
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
A little over 20 years ago, Lisa Wells made a bold decision, stepping away from her career to retrain in an entirely new profession. With two toddler sons at home, she needed flexibility. What she couldn't have known then was that this leap of faith would lead to her running an award-winning waxing salon in Leicestershire, attracting loyal clients from as far afield as Durham.
In this episode of Knowing You, I sit down with someone I've known since our early twenties. Lisa and I first worked together at the Leicester Mercury but, as this conversation unfolded, I discovered layers to her story I'd never fully understood before.
We talk about:
- How her nickname "Doris" came about
- The reality behind running a successful, client-centred salon
- The "bumpy" chapters of her life that shaped her resilience
- How her clients continually restore her faith in the goodness of people
Lisa's story is one of grit, reinvention and perspective. Like many of us, her life hasn't followed a straight line. There have been setbacks and storms but also growth, healing and joy.
And then there's the love story.
Last year, Lisa married Ady, the man she first dated for two years at college before life took them in different directions. Decades later, their paths realigned. It's proof that some stories really do come full circle.
Unsurprisingly, if a film were made about her life, Lisa would choose Julia Roberts to play her. Anyone who knows her will understand why - the resemblance has always been uncanny!
If you need a reminder that calm really can follow the storm, and that reinvention is possible at any stage of life, this is a conversation worth tuning into.
For more stories tune in every Thursday and take a follow on our IG https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
Further information on Lisa's award-winning salon is here https://www.instagram.com/amitywaxing/
Contact and additional information at:
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Produced by Karen Pirie (KP) - https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
Mary always knew she would end up in Scotland. She and her future husband made that promise to each other back in the 1980s when work took them south of the border. Life, as it tends to, had other plans. Careers, community and a very happy life in the Forest of Dean and Wales meant the move never quite happened, until now.
In her 60s, Mary is halfway through the long-awaited transition north, leaving behind the people and places that shaped decades of her life. That includes her rowing club tribe and her much-loved volunteering with the Severn Area Rescue Association, a team affectionately described by their leader as a group of "resourceful misfits."
Mary has always been drawn to the sea, calling it a "wilderness of calm." It's a fitting metaphor for this stage of life: steady on the surface, but full of movement underneath. She speaks openly about the mix of excitement and trepidation that comes with such a big change, and why volunteering has always been central to her sense of purpose.
We also hear about her early love of reading and writing, the years she spent working with economists where prose wasn't quite the priority, and the possibility that a book or even a play might still be waiting to be written.
Mary may appear calm and measured, but she admits there's an "alley cat" inside her when the situation calls for it. And if her life were ever turned into a film? She'd choose Renée Zellweger to play her: quirky, fun, a little ditsy, and quietly smart.
It's a gentle, thoughtful conversation about long-held promises, the communities we build, and the truth that new beginnings can happen at any age.
In this episode:
· A promise to return to Scotland and the 35 years it took
· Leaving behind beloved communities and volunteer work
· The role of volunteering in shaping identity
· The sea as a place of calm and reflection
· Rediscovering a love of writing
· Embracing change later in life
Listen if you enjoy: Stories of reinvention, quiet strength, volunteering, and the courage to start again.
Contact and additional information at:
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
Emily is 38, a mum of four, a pastor, and someone whose love of the colour pink seems to match the brightness of her smile.
We first met over coffee in a busy Starbucks, cups clattering in the background, for a conversation originally meant to support her coaching qualification. What emerged was something much richer: a story of faith, calling, family and the quiet wisdom that comes from living life with intention.
After careers in teaching, Emily and her husband felt a strong pull to follow a different path. Together they responded to what they describe as a calling, planting a Freedom Church in Cheltenham. Today, their community numbers around 160 people. They don't have a traditional church building, instead gathering in schools and borrowed spaces, meeting people where they are.
Despite her young age, Emily speaks with clarity about the importance of caring for herself so she can better care for others, as a wife, mum, pastor and leader.
She reflects on her childhood on the family farm, early mornings at markets with her dad, and the simple joys that shaped her outlook. She also shares how she and her husband are complete opposites and why that difference is one of their greatest strengths.
Finally, Emily leaves us with four principles she hopes her children will carry through life:
- Be confident in who you are and own your path.
- Love people, even when they're hard to love.
- Find joy in the small things.
- Live a life full and die empty, give your all, until the cloth is wrung dry.
If her story were ever told on screen, she'd choose Anne Hathaway, Cameron Diaz or Kate Winslet to play her.
A conversation full of warmth, honesty and a zest for life that lingers long after the coffee cups stop clattering.
Contact and additional information at:
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
In this episode I talk with Sarah Carey, aka Kiwi, or rather 'party Kiwi'; a Kiwi native who settled in the UK almost 30 years ago. Despite her reservations to have a recorded conversation she revealed so much:
· From the outside she's confident, assured and sorted but the truth is confidence isn't innate in her
· How growing up in New Zealand shaped her values – an embedded culture of work-life balance, living for the moment, family and commitments first and of course the country's passion for rugby
· Why laughter is the best elixir and how burnout in 2025 crept in and she left a job she loved only to have a plot twist 6 months later.
· How fear can stop us making the right choice but how she's living proof it all turns out
Host note
Conversations like this - spending time to focus on someone we think we know or have only just met bring me such inspiration and I hope they do the same for you.
Contact and additional information at:
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
In this episode I talk with Esther - a connector, coach, entrepreneur and founder of the Sparkle Squad - about resilience, reinvention and the lasting power of human connection.
Esther tells the moving story of having a terrible stutter as a child, years of speech therapy that gave her a voice, and how the simple act of reading aloud to her three children was a turning point. She reflects on life in three eras: the first 30 growing up, the next 30 raising her family, and now, at 60, the next 30 focused on her - the balance she wants, meaningful work, and a life that isn't about retirement but about purpose.
Just 12 months before this conversation, Esther's employed role ended unexpectedly. Instead of slowing down, she doubled down: by 2026 she's earning a full-time income through her own business, delivering LinkedIn training, coaching as a qualified business coach, and running the Sparkle Squad - a community of SME owners who crave connection more than ever. She names Michelle Obama as a role model and with a wink would pick Emma Thompson to play her in a film.
This is a conversation about saying yes to reinvention, the tiny practices that change us (like reading out loud), and why connection matters especially for small business owners.
Host note
Conversations like this - spending time to focus on someone we think we know or have only just met bring me such inspiration and I hope they do the same for you.
Contact and additional information at:
Your host:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps/
https://www.instagram.com/knowingyouwithsarah/
https://www.instagram.com/bigbalancetheory/
Our guest:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/estherpartridge/
https://www.instagram.com/esther_linkedin_coach/
Our producer:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenpirie/
https://www.instagram.com/karen.pirie/
I was lucky enough to get a table at Hari Kitchen in Franschhoek, South Africa - a restaurant consistently rated among the best in the region, with a 4.9 Google score and features as far afield as The New York Times. Even luckier was getting an hour-long conversation with the man behind it all, chef and entrepreneur Manashe (Nash) - my first international guest.
In this episode of Knowing You with Sarah Cripps, Nash shares his journey from humble beginnings to international recognition, and why success has never meant distancing himself from where he comes from. We talk openly about township pride, chasing opportunities, and the mindset of giving everything you have when you feel you have nothing to lose.
Nash explains how his now-famous pumpkin and peanut butter soup - inspired by his Zimbabwean roots and his granny's recipe - became a symbol of his philosophy: honest food, honest stories, and staying unpretentious in a world that often rewards the opposite. We also explore the culture behind Hari Kitchen, from choosing a daily "man of the match", to why Nash keeps four journals, including one dedicated purely to conversations.
Throughout the episode, one theme keeps returning: conversations build connections, and connection is at the heart of everything he's built.
This is a warm, grounded and deeply inspiring conversation about effort, integrity, community, and the long game of success.
In this episode, Vanessa joins me for a thoughtful and unexpectedly moving conversation about what it's like to be the person everyone talks to, but rarely talks about. As the owner of a beauty business, Vanessa is used to listening, holding space, offering comfort, and often feeling more like a counsellor than a therapist when offering pedicure and manicure treatments in Monmouth.
She shares how meaningful it felt to be asked about her own life, especially at a time when her father's recent cancer diagnosis has prompted deeper reflection and soul-searching. Alongside the heavier moments, we drift back to simpler times - penny sweets, high-sugar school tuck shops, holiday brochures, and hours lost in the Argos catalogue and how she ended up in running her own business.
This conversation is a gentle reminder that those who help us feel better through the work they do often need time, care, and attention themselves.
In this episode we explore:
- The unseen emotional labour behind running a beauty business
- What it's like always being the listener — and rarely being asked
- Nostalgia and the comfort of small, shared memories
- How a family health scare can quietly reshape priorities
A reflective, human conversation about being seen, heard, and held, especially when you're usually the one doing that for everyone else.
To kick off the year we flipped the mic and put KP in the hot seat as host. We take a candid look back at last year - what worked, what I lost and reintroduced (I brought journalling and running back into my life), and the mental framing that helped: opportunity cost. Saying "no" isn't just closure, it creates space to say "yes" to something more meaningful.
We also unpack the harmful habit of comparing ourselves to others and commit to stopping it. After an energising trip to South Africa over Christmas I came back reset, re-evaluated and refocused - intentionally honest rather than performatively authentic, because authenticity has become an overused buzzword on socials. KP brought a powerful reflective question to the table: "How do I think others see me and what are they missing?" and we explore what that means for communication, presence and purposeful living.
Episode Highlights
- Producer KP flips the mic and leads the episode.
- Reintroducing good habits: journalling and running - why they matter.
- Opportunity cost: why saying no = creates room for better yeses.
- The comparison trap: how and why to stop it.
- Travel reset: reflections from a holiday in South Africa.
- "Honest, not authentic": what we mean and why it matters.
- KP's reflective question about perception and missed pieces.
If this episode resonated: subscribe, leave a rating, and tell one friend who needs to hear this.
In this episode, I sit down with Tegan, the 25-year-old founder of No Filter, a thriving beauty business that now proudly runs with a one-month waiting list.
What I loved most about this conversation is how deeply human it is. Tegan shares her journey from feeling embarrassed to say she worked in beauty, to stepping fully into pride as a young business owner with four years of success behind her.
What we cover in this episode:
✨ Self-acceptance & identity in your 20s Tegan opens up about finally embracing her role in the beauty industry and letting go of others' opinions.
✨ The myth of constant business growth After years of pushing for "more, more, more," she now chooses happiness today over relentless expansion.
✨ Work–life balance, but realistically Her downtime often looks like… DIY. (If you know, you know!)
✨ Career detours From wanting to be a vet nurse to becoming known for great eyebrows - literally voted "Best Eyebrows" in her school yearbook.
✨ A childhood story you'll never forget The moment she cut her own eyebrows to impress a boy. (Yes… with scissors.)
✨ Lessons from four years of clients
- Not everyone gives instant feedback, and that's okay.
- Bad days don't define you, another good one will come.
- Pride grows with experience and self-trust.
✨ Looking ahead Tegan sees teaching or coaching in her future, and by the time she's 60? Children, travel, joy - simple and beautiful.
This episode was a little experiment in format and what a brilliant one it turned out to be. I sat down with my youngest ever guest, Grace who, at just 16 years old, brings a clarity of purpose, a deep sense of values, and a grounded wisdom far beyond what anyone might expect from her age.
Grace joined my day job Salad Skills after completing work experience with us at just 15. From day one, she's shown all the signs of a future high achiever committed, curious, hardworking. But what truly sets her apart is her moral compass. Slice her in half like a stick of seaside rock and you'll find values running right the way through. She has an innate desire to do good, be good, and make choices that feel right.
In this conversation, Grace reflects on the people who shaped her - proof that one good adult can change everything.✨ Her reception teacher, who visited her nursery to introduce herself, making that early transition feel safe, calm, and exciting.✨ Her inspiring English teacher, Mr Rose, whose quiet encouragement helped her build self-belief, the skill she says has been her biggest learning curve so far.
Grace also shares insights on growing up, learning to trust herself, and embracing the person she's becoming. And just in case you're imagining the world's most flawless teenager… don't worry. She's totally relatable too - her one big wish is for her parents to stop nagging her about the state of her bedroom!
This warm, thoughtful, and uplifting chat is a reminder that young people have so much to offer; wisdom, perspective, resilience, and hope. And sometimes, they teach us more than we teach them.
In this deeply personal and refreshingly honest conversation, I sit down with my lifelong friend Claire, a friendship that has spanned almost five decades.
For the first time publicly, Claire opens up about her decision to give up alcohol, not because she was an alcoholic, but because she realised she had never met the version of herself that didn't drink. This episode explores the surprising emotions behind that choice, the identity shifts that come with it, and the discovery that there is a fun, vibrant Clare without the glass in her hand.
We dig into the unspoken truth of friendship:
We think we know people so well, yet we rarely stop to ask why they believe what they believe or behave how they do. Why does Claire identify as an atheist? What shaped her views? What risks has she taken in her life and what has she learned from them?
This episode gently reminds us that the people closest to us still have untold stories, unseen moments of courage, and unexplored layers.
As always, we end with a fun, fast-paced "7 Questions Before You Go" a light-hearted quick-fire round that reveals even more quirks, preferences, and truths we've somehow never asked each other over the years.
If you love conversations that feel real, raw, and rooted in decades of friendship, you'll feel right at home in this episode.
Join me as I sit down with a remarkable guest - the wife of talented photographer Ben, who captured our corporate photos. In this episode, she shares her journey as a senior leader at a global beauty brand, exploring the power of energy, risk-taking, and passion in building a successful business.
We dive into her personal values of empathy, kindness, listening, and teamwork, and how aligning people with a shared vision creates true motivation. She explains why understanding her team on a personal level is vital, and how her emotional awareness helps her foster inclusion while sometimes challenging her to overthink.
From learning leadership lessons from senior female role models to navigating a career across the UK and the US, she opens up about bold moves like relocating her family during early Covid for an incredible professional opportunity and the lessons learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of saying "yes" to opportunities, embracing change, and trusting the process.
We also touch on her daily rituals, literary loves, guilty pleasures in trash TV, and her philosophy of gratitude and living fearlessly. Her insights remind us that life is made up of moments, and the key is to immerse ourselves fully, both personally and professionally.
Key Topics Covered: • Building a business rooted in people, not just the brand • Aligning teams with vision and individual roles • Emotional intelligence in leadership: benefits and challenges • Mentorship and learning from senior role models • Navigating career moves abroad and the family dynamic • Philosophy of taking risks and trusting fate • Daily rituals, relaxation, and self-awareness • Gratitude, connection, and leaving a meaningful legacy • Bucket list and experiences over destinations
Memorable Quotes: • "True motivation is about taking the time to get to know people as a whole." • "This is just a moment in time." • "No one is that focused on yourself so don't worry about what people think." • "Say thank you to those who have given meaning to your life."
🎧 Listen on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. ✨ Follow @knowingyouwithsarah on IG for more stories
In this first episode, I sit down with someone who's known me longer than almost anyone, our producer and my friend of 43 years, Karen Pirie. Fitting episode to start my 60 at 60 - 60 conversations to mark my 60th birthday next year
What starts as a chat between old friends turns into a conversation full of quiet wisdom about the value of slowing down, listening, and the lessons we only learn when we stop rushing.
We talk about:🌿 The best pieces of advice given to KP (and why they still hold true).🪑 Why sitting on a bench might be the most valuable time in the world.💭 What you discover about yourself through lifelong friendship.
It's a gentle beginning to Knowing You - the podcast where we explore the people and moments that shape who we are.
🎧 Listen on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.✨ Follow @knowingyoupodcast for more stories, reflections, and 60 conversations to mark my 60th year.
This month marks four incredible years since the launch of The Big Balance Theory! What started as a way to capture the experiences and emotions of the COVID lockdown years through the voices of authentic, inspiring guests has become so much more.
Over time, we've reflected on every episode — uncovering insights, learnings, and stories that remind us that Big Balance Theory isn't really a theory… it's a journey.
Lockdown taught us the value of connection and conversation and, as the world shifts again, we find ourselves craving both more than ever.
In this episode, I share:
· The key learnings from four years of Big Balance Theory
· Why my three words for this season are Serendipity, Enough, and Lists
· The exciting launch of my new podcast: Knowing You with Sarah Cripps — a deeper dive into human connection, featuring guests from lost connections to lifelong friends I've never truly sat down with… until now.
💛 A special thank you to my number one loyal listener Steve Williams, and to Karen Pirie (KP) for her unwavering belief in both shows.
Tune in, reflect, and reconnect — because every conversation brings us closer to balance.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Podcast engineer Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Big Balance Theory is sponsored by Salad Skills Ltd. A company passionate about matching and developing talent with forward-thinking and purposeful organisations. www.saladskills.co.uk
As a glass half full person, I’ve always been keen to explore people’s strengths not weaknesses. Within my apprenticeship consultancy and coaching practices I use a range of strength based assessments and recently added the At My Best strength cards to my toolkit. This month’s guest is co-founder of At My Best and Work Positive, an organisation committed to helping organisations like M&S and the NHS to, basically, work positively. As a Chartered Psychologist, Michele is passionate about bringing her 25 years of experience to create simple, effective solutions to creating a positive work culture and maximise the wellbeing of all. She truly advocates small changes to bring about big differences - a theme that consistently emerges from past conversations on this pod.
Michele’s what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance for 2025:
· CONNECTION
· PROGRESS
· PLAY
Tune in to find out why
Her go-to book that would get her through isolation – A Month in the Country, J L Carr
For contact details see below.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Michele Deeks (9) Michele Deeks | LinkedIn At My Best - tools to help professionals bring the best out of people – At My Best (Work Positive Limited) Work Positive - Work Positive
Big Balance Theory is sponsored by Salad Skills Ltd. A company passionate about matching and developing talent with forward-thinking and purposeful organisations. www.saladskills.co.uk
I’m joined by Graham Field, Thinking Focus coach and trainer, where we talk all things priority; the big life choices and day to day habits that can lead us down a rabbit hole of lost time. If you’re anything like me, you set the day or week with best intentions but then life happens and everything goes to pot.
I first met Graham by chance at a business exhibition. Fast forward a few years and we worked collaboratively on a project for the residents of the YMCA giving them the tools and belief to build a life and career beyond homelessness and hostel living. We proudly won a National Training Award for this work back in 2009 and continued to stay in touch. This man, in my view, has work life balance nailed and above all he’s authentic, values-driven and works with purpose.
Graham’s what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance for 2025:
· PURPOSE: Inspired by Simon Sinek he always works to the ‘Why’ philosophy
· FOCUS: Making sure he focuses on all his ‘balls of life’
· HELP: He knows the power of asking for help; we’re not superhuman
Tune in to find out why
His non-fiction book that would get him through isolation – The Star Wars Empire Trilogy
For contact details see below.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Graham Field
www.linkedin.com/in/graham-field-2570864
www.thinkingfocus.com
Big Balance Theory is sponsored by Salad Skills Ltd - a company passionate about matching and developing talent with forward-thinking and purposeful organisations. www.saladskills.co.uk
This episode is a how-to conversation on ways to improve your body image, break free from binge eating and a diet mindset to one of growth, confidence and better choices in life and business
I’m in conversation with Terri Pugh, a transformative life coach who helps women build confidence in how they show up in the world. Through coaching, workshops, speaking events and hosting her own podcast, The Intuitive Eating and Body Positivity Podcast, Terri has helped 1000s of women to feel confident in their bodies, their choices, and their careers. As an intuitive eating and body image certified coach and a Nutritional Therapy graduate she lifts the lid on how to stop binge eating, break free from diet culture and feel happy in your body.
If you’re a professional who struggles with self-doubt, body image pressures, and feeling like you don’t belong at the table you’re not alone. And while Terri’s typical client is female, her work appeals to all genders, sizes and ages
Terri’s what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance for 2025:
· EXPANSION – expand her mind and body socially, educationally and happily
· LIBERATION – working on self-freedom
· DISRUPTION – stop staying safe and be more authentically heard
Tune in to find out why
Her non-fiction book that would get her through isolation – The Time Traveller’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger – so she can just get ‘lost’
For contact details see below.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Terri Pugh
(4) Terri Pugh | LinkedIn
Instagram Terripughcoaching
Terri Pugh | Intuitive Eating Coach - Terri Pugh
If you’re familiar with the work of world-renowned Belbin Team Roles you’ll be inspired by this conversation.
· Why understanding each person’s team role is ever more critical
· The original research was carried out by Mrs Belbin who deliberately shone away from the limelight – a timely revelation to mark International Women’s Week
· Face to face communication is becoming more prevalent
· Why reflecting on what we’ve achieved is vital
· AI has the potential to make us more ‘human’
Jo’s what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance for 2025:
· Team – we can only achieve so much by ourselves
· Slow-space – (we loved this) breathe, slow down and create pauses
· Reflection – let’s just have some more ‘wow’ look what we’ve achieved!
Tune in to find out why
Her non-fiction book that would get her through isolation – Tolkein’s Lord of the Rings Trilogy, especially chosen to reread to see how if her older lens sees things differently
For contact details see below.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Jo Keeler
(7) Jo Keeler | LinkedIn
Belbin www.belbin.com
This episode is bursting with all things positive but this is not to be confused with Toxic Positivity. Using a range of studies to back her work, Tillie shares with us the importance of purpose, values, emotions and language to create a truly authentic, meaningful and engaged team. Our conversation explores:
· Why appraisals don’t work
· How to know your limit before burn out hits
· How to foster a culture of transparency
Tillie’s what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance:
· REST
· ECO SYSTEM
· CHALLENGE
Tune in to find out why
Her non-fiction book that would get her through isolation – Happier by Tal-Ben Shahar.
For contact details see below.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Tillie Newnham Tillie (1) Tillie Newnham | LinkedIn Happy Work Hive – www.happyworkhive.com
Elain candidly and honestly shares her journey of her downward spiral in terms of mental health. She neither recognised the signs nor had the toolkit to deal with the symptoms. It completely transformed her perspective on work-related breakdowns. Once she’d sought help she took the brave decision to set up a business to help others and this month celebrates 10 years in business.
Within 2 days of the pandemic her phone didn’t stop and she hasn’t looked back since and it’s clear she has an absolute passion to make a difference so that others don’t endure the same as she did. “I am an expert in me” not someone seeking to perpetually please nor strive for perfection.
Elain’s what 3 words to a road to happiness and balance:
· BALANCE
· BRAVE
· FAITH
Tune in to find out why
Her book that she would take into isolation turned out to be the one that got her through lockdown – A Trip of One Zone, by Kate Willis.
For contact details see below.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Elain Crewe
www. About Us – Wellbeing4Life
Linkedin.com/in/elaincrewewellbeing4life
E: elain@wellbeing-4-life.com
We’re all aware of how working arrangements have changed for most since 2020. How do businesses get the balance right between serving their people and what’s best for the business? What are the new skills needed to manage flexible working and the surge in online communications?
These are the topics covered in this latest episode with Zoe Hawkins, co- founder of In Good Company, a global triple accredited Coaching Training Organisation, Facebook community group, The Coaching Crowd, that’s got just under 6500 members, and their No. 1 podcast of the same name that releases fresh insights every Monday since it launched in November 2021.
We also asked Zoe for her what 3 words to a road to happiness and in true authentic style we ended up with 6!
· LOVE
· PASSION
· FUN
· LISTEN
· CHOOSE
· GRATITUDE
The book choice that Zoe chose was a first – Wagamama’s cookery book – that Zoe would take into isolation.
For contact details see below.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Zoe Hawkins www.igcompany.co.uk www.zoe-hawkins.com
Welcome to this latest episode with Esther who shares lessons learned from her cancer diagnosis in 2015. Professionally she came off the treadmill and completely changed her career and has never looked back. We talk about the impact of covid and she shares top tips on how to get work life balance and keep your glass full!
Esther’s what 3 words to a road to happiness
· GROW
· REFLECT
· THRIVE
The book that Esther would take into isolation is the brilliant Daring Greatly by Brene Brown. For contact details see below.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Esther Partridge-Warner
Podcast engineer Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Welcome to this latest episode with fitness trainer Ruairi Davies. From a dream job training elite rugby athletes in Chile to a lockdown-enforced return home. He thought he would return 2 weeks later (a familiar tale) but that didn’t happen and his career took a new focus. What he has learned and keen to share is:
· You can have a grand plan but that can change in an instance; don’t panic because things do work out
· Only control the controllables
· Physical and mental health go hand in hand – you can’t have one without the other
· Exercise gives you more than physical benefits – it creates social connections
· Just 10 minutes of activity a day can be enough.
· Why an 80 year old called him a miracle worker
Ruairi’s what 3 words to describe his road to success, balance and happiness
· Health – no surprises there
· Limitless – don’t set self-limiting beliefs and go for what suits you and your lifestyle
· Courage – take that leap even if it’s just a step, or a commitment to do something.
The book that kept Ruairi going through lockdown – Barbarian Days, , A Surfing Life by William Finnegan
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Ruairi Davies, Action Athletic
Facebook ActionAthletic
Instagram ActionAthletic
Podcast engineer Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Welcome to this latest conversation with Hayley Tutte. Two years ago, past guest Hayley bravely shared with us how the silence created by lockdown led to a whole change in career. Since then, Hayley has gone from self-employed to running her own clinic, works 3.5 days a week and is more balanced than ever. A recent ADHD diagnosis has further transformed her life. Things we now know about classic ADHD characteristics are:
· Procrastination
· Hyper focussed and hyper observant
· Can often overshare then overthink and overanalyse
· Task paralysis
· Struggle with long lengths of time with people
· Impulsiveness
Hayley’s three words to navigate her own road to success are:
· Connection – building solid, meaningful connections with people is vital
· Stability – essential for most people but especially to deal with ADHD characteristics
· Movement – keeping physically fit is crucial
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Hayley Tutte
Facebook Huquine Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
Huquinesporttherapy.co.uk
Welcome to this latest conversation with Dave Hider. Dave has held extensive strategic leadership roles and during lockdown, whilst working full time, navigating different processes as a result of lockdown with most of his team furloughed he completed his MBA with distinction. Covid made him realise that life is too short so he left the trappings of a stable career and started his own business Mind-Gap with a purpose to help leaders bridge the gap between unlocked potential and success. The business is booming and he is committed to donating 30% of his time and profits to support some of the poorest countries in the world and talks about corporate karma.
As a coach and trainer he talks about balancing market opportunities of online coaching and rich and engaging training. Can it be done without the coffee conversations?
“Ploughing a furrow…” We explore the meaning of work-life balance and how his own journey is so liberating and rewarding that, even though he works more hours now, he is more balanced.
Dave reveals how he’s moved from the ‘fast line’ to the ‘flow lane’ and why purpose is pivotal to all that he does. In his case he is really driven to helping people, businesses and communities to hunt out what else they could be doing, discovering and ‘leaning into’.
Dave’s 3 words for happiness, success and balance:
· GIVING – always attracted to those that give
· PURPOSE – how do we move to proactive not reactive sense of purpose
· POTENTIAL – the importance of stepping out of your comfort space
Dave wraps up with what we should do more and less of to get a happier, balanced life
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
(33) Dave Hider MBA | LinkedIn
Unlocking Potential Through Leadership Training - Mind-Gap
Podcast engineer Karen Pirie
In this episode my conversation is with Maddy Shine. Maddy is a website wonder coder, an SEO supremo and runs three businesses. Her purpose is to shine bright and help other women entrepreneurs do just that. Our conversation leads to changes in buyer behaviour since lockdown and her tips on how to grow your business, why giving, especially to your own community, is important and how to make your brand stand out. We hear about the importance in wellbeing of our Third Space and so much more.
Maddy gives us her three words for happiness, success and balance:
Community
Connection
Conversation
Maddy wraps up with what we should do more of and less of to get a happier, balanced life.
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
(17) Maddy Shine | LinkedIn
www.maddyshine.co.uk
Producer, Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
In this episode, No. 28, my conversation is with Dr Lizzy Bernthal. Having served 25 years as a healthcare specialist in the Army, rising through the ranks to Lt Col and completing an MEd and PHD in resilience, Lizzy’s own business mission is to help others by removing toxicity in the workplace through resilient leadership.
Her many insights include:
What is resilience in the boardroom?
Why we should bounce forward not back
How confidence, trust and resilience are interlinked
The importance of #practisingwhatyoupreach
How a toxic environment can lead to a lack of self worth if not dealt with
The importance of failing to our development and growth
Lizzy gives us her 3 words for happiness, success and balance:
GARDENING
SPACE
SPARKLE
Lizzy wraps up with what we should do more and less of to get a happier, balanced life
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
(4) Dr Lizzy Bernthal | LinkedIn
www.rypotential.co.uk
Producer, Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
As an actor, Dick Bradnum worked for 30 years across TV, film and radio, appearing in The Office, High Hopes and My Hero. Under his own name Dick Johns, he has written and performed three successful solo shows at Chapter, Cardiff: Dick Johns - What Midlife Crisis? (2016), Let’s Talk About Death, Baby (2018) and in 2022 a documentary record of The Great Pandemic Sofa Show. Alongside this Dick works in the corporate sector having written, designed and facilitated leadership programmes for clients including Network Rail, Sony Games, Astra Zeneca, the NHS, LinkedIn, Marks and Spencer and hundreds more.
His work contributions have led to many awards being won for his diverse clients and his focus is helping people to have better conversations. He talks optimistically about the next generation and how engaged they are in being inclusive in their conversations, especially around neuro-divergency, and how much more empathy they have.
Dick is definitely more aware of the world around him since the pandemic era and wishes we all had more time for play in the workplace.
He selects his 3 words for a balanced life and explains why he choose them – Sunshine, Poetry and Glamour - and he reveals how a gold tie is sometimes his secret weapon!
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Guest: Dick Johns (2) dick johns | LinkedIn
website Dickjohns.co.uk
Producer, Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
In this episode my conversation is with Nicky Applegarth, MD of award winning digital marketing agency, Ayima. This agency serves many of the world’s biggest brands with a global team of just over 100. Nicky started her digital career back in 1999 in a small website design and build agency at a time when mobile phones were simply used to make phone calls and send text messages. In 2013 she took a five-month career and life break exploring South America on her own. The experience gave her a new sense of balance but it was shortlived and she was soon on ‘that treadmill’. Lockdown forced her to revisit balance and she shares how.
Nicky gives us her three words for happiness, success and balance:
NO
FIT and
KINDNESS
and our conversation explores the challenges of recruiting a younger generation and how expectations have changed for this generation
Recommended read: Every Dog, A book of over 450 breeds – Nancy Hajeski
Recommended film: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
Recommended podcast: Drinking from the Toilet – Hannah Branigan
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Guest: Nicky Applegarth
(14) Nicky Applegarth | LinkedIn
Nicky Applegarth (@nickyapplegarth) • Instagram photos and videos
Producer, Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Hear Julie’s honest and heart-searching experience of what it was like being a Principal of a secondary school during lockdown and how, post-pandemic, more specialist staff have been appointed to support students’ social and emotional needs. Past guests have shared at least one benefit from lockdown but for Julie it was the worst period of her career in education with no work-life balance. We talk about the impact to the young and why growing the workforce with apprenticeships is key and we learn the support mechanisms in place to make the apprenticeships’ journey and workplace integration successful.
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Guest: Julie Robinson Linkedin (1) Julie Robinson | LinkedIn
Producer: Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Self-affirmed ‘Queen of Business’ Libby shares her entrepreneurial journey from building a sizeable business in 2009 to now being a no-BS (her words) Business Coach helping other entrepreneurs to be happy and successful in their work. Nothing stands in Libby’s way, not even ADHD or Autism. Her interview is inspiring, energetic and down-to-earth and you will definitely get something from this interview on how to get balance in your business
(Recommended reads at the end of the interview)
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Guest: Libby Langley
Linkedin(5) Libby Langley | LinkedIn
Instagram LIBBY - Business Coach & Strategist (@libbylangley) • Instagram photos and videos
Facebook (6) Facebook
Podcast – Life in Business
Producer:
Twitter: @karenepirie
Instagram: karen.pirie
Recommended reads
Pursuit of Happiness – Ruth Whippman
Delivering Happiness – Tony Hseih
Life in Business – Libby Langley
This is our last episode of 2023 snd it’s full of all things work-life balance. In this two-year anniversary pod, producer Karen Pirie and I go over the highlights of the 20 plus guests we have been lucky enough to interview since we launched in November 2021. We reflect on how the world of work has changed, how businesses have innovated and adapted and we have a lengthy discussion on how these changes have impacted the younger generation entering the workplace. There’s also some top tips on how to continue good habits and we share the most popular recommended book and podcast so far.
Rupert talks about the challenges of remote coaching, working in isolation with his business partner and wife and how he coached businesses through lockdown. Remote working isn’t new for Rupert but what he’s witnessing is greater honesty among remote workers and leaders.
Recommended read, listen and legacy and best ever boss at the end of the interview
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Guest: Rupert Turton
Linkedin (5) Rupert Turton | LinkedIn
Producer, Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Recommended reads:
Book - SUMO – Shut up and Move On – Paul McGee
Recommended podcasts:
Stephen Bartlett – Diary of a CEO
Bus X – James Vincent
High Performance Podcast – Jake Humphreys and Damian Hughes
Veronica tells the moving story of how hitting rock bottom, emotionally and physically, led to life-changing choices for her and how she’s made a business out of helping others improve personal and business relationship.
Recommended read, listen and best ever boss at the end of the interview
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Guest: Veronica Weedon
Instagram Veronica Weedon | Health Coach & Hypnotherapist | Writer (@revivalhealthllc) • Instagram photos and videos
Linkedin (10) Veronica Weedon | LinkedIn
Producer, Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Instagram: karen.pirie
Recommended reads – any on the topic of human design
Recommended podcast: Women of Impact Lisa Bilyeu (Co-founder of the billion dollar company Quest Nutrition).
Darius gives us a real insight into why and how recruiting staff has changed. Though lockdown was a contributory factor, Brexit, a shortage of younger talent and the surge in early retirees have all contributed to a growth in vacancies and a skills shortage. Hear how businesses are having to adapt their offering and learn what candidates are looking for in their next career move. Darius shares lessons learned during the lockdown reset and explains how the business and his health are now stronger and more balanced.
Recommended read, listen and his best boss are at the end of the interview
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Guest: Darius Matusiak
Instagram Macildowie Recruitment (@macildowieworld) • Instagram photos and videos
Linkedin (2) Darius Matusiak | LinkedIn
(2) Macildowie Recruitment and Retention: Overview | LinkedIn
Facebook (1) Facebook
Producer, Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Instagram: karen.pirie
Recommended reads:
Book: Viktor E Frankl – Man’s Search for Meaning
Recommended podcasts:
The High Performance Podcast – Jake Humphrey and Professor Damian Hughes
Laura shares the impact of lockdown to her business and her family, particularly for her son who has autism and her daughter who is dyslexic. Hear how she learned she is more independent than she realised and how communications were critical to getting through lockdown.
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
Guest: Laura Mayfield
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/marketing_outsidein/
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurajmayfield/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/marketingOUTSIDEin
Twitter https://twitter.com/MarketOUTSIDEin
Producer: Karen Pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Instagram: karen.pirie
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Recommended read:
Book - Ignore The Fear by Fiona Quinn
Recommended podcast:
Lex Fridman
Pod - My Therapist Ghosted Me
In this episode we interview Ryan Sneddon. Covid gave him the courage to set up his own business and he has so many lessons and memories to share, from the joy of getting your first paycheck, to moving operations from the kitchen table, to picking and packing facilities. In just 18 months the company has turned over half a million pounds and he’s on track to reach a million by 2024.
If you’re passionate about your business you’ll find a way. Don’t listen to the doubters.
His recommended read, listen and legacy are at the end of the interview
Karen:
Twitter: @karenepirie
Instagram: karen.pirie
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Email – hello@sportingedge.com
Recommended read: Neale Daniher (coach and a player MND) When All is Said & Done – letters to his grandchildren and life lessons.
In this episode, I interview Dan Lamoon, founder of Colab Creation, a video creation company. Dan uses his dyslexia as a strength to inspire and educate his corporate and educational clients. Learn how a digital company had to adapt during lockdown and hear why offline will always have its place for interrelations.
Recommended read, listen and legacy are at the end of the interview
Karen:
Twitter: @karenepirie
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
LinkedIn (1) Dan Lamoon | LinkedIn
LinkedIn Colab - (1) Colab Creation: Overview | LinkedIn
Instagram MD2MD - Dan Lamoon (@dan_lamoon) | Instagram
Facebook - (16) Dan Lamoon | Facebook
Recommended read:
Screw it, just do it – Richard Branson
Recommended podcasts:
Diaries of a CEO - Stephen Bartlett
MD2MD addresses the problem that it can be ‘lonely at the top’ through confidential yet open discussions, workshops and facilitation among MDs and CEOs. Emma was promoted to MD during lockdown. She shares her rise to the top and how their business community fared during lockdown.
Recommended read, listen and legacy are at the end of the interview
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie
Twitter: @karenepirie
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
LinkedIn Emma Phipps - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-phipps-69958020/
LinkedIn MD2MD - https://www.linkedin.com/company/233327
Instagram MD2MD - MD2MD (@md2md_businessleader) | Instagram
Facebook - (2) Emma Phipps | Facebook
Website: Home | MD2MD
Recommended read:
Wolf Hall - Wikipedia
Recommended podcast:
Now You’re Asking – Marian Keyes and Tara Flynn
In this episode we interview Jeremy Snape. After 19 years of professional cricketing, a series of awards and an MSc in Psychology, Jeremy shares how failure on the pitch inspired a serious exploration of the psychology of sport. He’s now a highly respected voice on high performance for the business world. He’s the founding leader of Sporting Edge, host of the Apple Top 10 Inside the Mind of Champions podcast, a global keynote speaker and regular media contributor on the link between elite sports and how this translates to the corporate world. Fresh from a keynote event for a global client in Bangkok, Jeremy shares the impact of lockdown on him, his businesses and gives an insight into how businesses need to emerge stronger than ever.
Recommended read, listen and legacy are at the end of the interview
Karen:
Twitter: @karenepirie
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Linkedin – Jeremy Snape https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremysnape/?originalSubdomain=uk
Twitter @thesportingedge https://twitter.com/thesportingedge
Email – hello@sportingedge.com
Instagram – Jeremy.snape https://www.instagram.com/jeremy.snape/
Sporting Edge – www.sportingedge.com
Podcast - Inside the Mind of Champions on Apple Podcasts
Recommended read:
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Recommended podcasts:
Huberman Lab
For this episode I got brave and reached out to someone who had inspired me during lockdown. Tom’s a poet, an author of two books and a filmmaker who has worked with Colin Farrell and Tim Roth. I’m so grateful he accepted my request to be interviewed. Lockdown provided him with an opportunity to make a name for himself but I have no doubt that he has all the hallmarks to be successful; positive attitude and determination and above all he’s mastered the art of articulation.
Recommended read, listen and legacy at the end of the interview
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Tomfoolery
Tomfoolery | In the bad, we find the good! (probablytomfoolery.com)
https://www.linkedin.com/tomfooleryltd
Instagram: probablytomfoolery
Recommended reads:
1984 George Orwell
Recommended podcasts:
Lex Fridman
Huberman Lab
Recommended legacy
Learn to speak, write and read effectively
In this episode we talk to one of the rare-in-post male senior HR executives. Jonathan shares how many organisations are placing too much emphasis on ‘place’ within the post-covid workplace and he offers his top tips for employee engagement and gaining a competitive advantage on talent acquisition.
Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Jonathan Parsons
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-parsons-89a0571
Theories cited:
Seijts and Crim:
The 10 Cs of employee engagement in the Covid era - CMI (managers.org.uk)
Lynda Gratton:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynda-gratton-3b179813
Recommended reads:
Atomic Habits – James Clear
Men Should Talk – Gareth Palmer
In this episode we have a light-hearted chat about Claire’s strategies, how she boosts her height by wearing eye-catching heels, and her childhood career ambition to be a stand up comedian. On a firmer footing she shares how she gives ‘purpose time’ to her team so they can develop themselves and others, plus we discuss the importance of values and behaviours beyond the paper they’re written on. This interview is vibrant, rich and inspiring and Claire was interviewed in her ‘shoedio’.
Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
bigbalancetheory@gmail.com
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Claire Thompson
https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-thompson-9b94853
Recommended reads:
Caitlin Moran – How to be a Woman
The Four Agreements – Don Miguel Ruiz
The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson
In this episode we talk about Matt’s journey since his time of depression and suicidal thoughts over 10 years ago and how this journey helped him to manage lockdown. Lots to learn from CMI and how they put people's health at the forefront.
Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview.
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Matt Swarbrick
https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-swarbrick-fcmi-bb057a22
https://instagram.com/swarbs44?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Recommended reads:
Black Rainbow – how words healed me; my journey through depression by Rachel Kelly
Bowler’s Name? The life of a cricketing also ran by Tom Hicks
In this episode producer Karen interviews me to remind the listener where Big Balance Theory began and to reflectively share the journey. As ever, it’s an open- hearted, open-minded, authentic and honest chat.
Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview
Karen
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Recommended read:
The Elephant and the Twig: The Art of Positive Thinking: Amazon.co.uk: Thompson, Geoff: 9781840242645: Books
My guest is Barry Hilton, Managing Director of Mercuri International. Life after lockdown is fundamentally different. He stresses that technology cannot be a substitute for the knowledge and motivation of a human being. Barry shares his behavioural and material changes and how happiness is a key part of his business strategy, and Hertzberg’s motivational theory is discussed.
Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview.
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Barry
https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-hilton-875442
Mercuri International
https://www.linkedin.com/company/mercuri-international-uk-ltd/
Mentions:
Hertzberg 2- factor theory
Recommended read:
Right, Ho Jeeves: Amazon.co.uk: Wodehouse, P G: 9781609420710: Books
I talk to Hayley Tutte, a former social care worker now a qualified equine and human sports therapist who describes perfectionism as a form of self-harm.
Hayley had ignored the emotional and physical signs of burnout until lockdown forced her to be, what she feared the most, still. From the depths of trauma she has completely transformed her life. She dares to take the credit for my rowing accomplishments too!
Greatest learning and recommended reads at the end of the interview
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Hayley
www.huquinesportstherapy
Instagram: huquinesportstherapy
Mentions:
Brené Brown (brenebrown.com)
Amazon.co.uk : the body keeps a score
meet the team - Monmouth (monmouthclinic.co.uk)
Ride With Your Mind - Rider Biomechanics (mary-wanless.com)
Recommended read:
Amazon.co.uk : brene brown atlas of the heart
There’s so much in this episode from the importance of not saying ‘yes’ to everything to recognising that being under-stimulated in life can lead to anxiety as much as a life too full and how perfectionism is not helpful for the mind. Steve tells us how a pivotal curve ball in his career changed everything and we end with a discussion on how those with mental health issues don’t always present themselves in the way we think.
His greatest fear post lockdown and recommended reads (and an allowed soundtrack because he’s a real music buff) are at the end of the interview.
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcripps https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Steve Williams
https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-williams-26816659
https://freakonomics.com/podcast/turning-work-into-play/
Recommended read:
https://www.bnf.org/products/books/
Mentions:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0GYg0UN5LGkpoQcShLJxyE?si=3L93OKUKSHyBzhnXEfMRIw
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4atM5zDRiJRwn9ge74tMCj
Dr Karen Sankey who picked Lost Connections Johann Hari https://thelostconnections.com/
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20180219-toxic-perfectionism-is-on-the-rise
Host Sarah Cripps interviews Carmen of Inspired to Change to find out how and why techniques and good habits lead to positive change. Carmen also shares her lockdown journey with a balance of humour, authenticity and guidance. A plus to lockdown is no smelly socks.
Her greatest fear post lockdown and recommended reads are at the end of the interview.
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @cornwallwoman
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Carmen
Instagram carmen_inspiredtochange
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmenharringtonhypno
Facebook CarmenHarrington(Wilson)
Mentions:
Four Burner Theory - TheBrightDelights
Recommended Book
The Miracle Morning – Hal Elrod
Host Sarah Cripps interviews life coach Wenda-Kate who shares her career and life journey including a time in her life where everything ended – her stable job, a regular job with all the trappings - and the end of her long-term relationship, and how lockdown gave her reflective time to learn and then to take control of what she wants in life and to make the magic happen.
Key shares in this inspiring episode:
Be brave to fly – ask yourself the big questions that you often ask of others
Assumptions and beliefs aren’t always aligned but when they are, the magic happens
If someone offers you an amazing opportunity just say ‘yes’ and work out the how afterwards
If you need help, ask someone with big boots or ask yourself what your role model would do when you need help with a decision
Wenda-Kate's greatest fear post lockdown and her recommend read
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @CornwallWoman
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Wenda-Kate
Instagram wendaconfikate
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wenda-kate-randle-8050a866
Facebook - Wenda-Kate Randle
Mentions:
Poem
The Road Not Taken – Robert Frost
Recommended Book
Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway – Susan Jeffers
Host Sarah Cripps interviews Rhian of Veg Life a 100% plant-based business based in Malvern, Worcestershire. She’s dynamic, inspiring, determined and philanthropic.
Key shares in this inspiring episode:
Don’t wait for the door of opportunity to come to you. Go search for it and keep knocking on that door and find another one if that closes on you
The importance of business planning
Recognising your own strengths and weaknesses
Ignore the critics – carrots and chillies aren’t something to be afraid of
Rhian's greatest fear post lockdown and her recommend read
Sarah:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
Karen:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @CornwallWoman
James at BeHeard
Be Heard | Podcast Production
Rhian:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhian-caffull-4aa9b1164
https://www.facebook.com/veglifeeats/
https://instagram.com/veglifeeats?igshid=NjY2NjE5MzQ=
Mentions:
Papyrus:
Rhian Caffull is fundraising for PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide (justgiving.com)
Hereford and Worcester Chamber of Commerce
Business Support - Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce (hwchamber.co.uk)
Recommended read:
Prisoners of Geography: Read this now to understand the geopolitical context behind Putin's Russia and the Ukraine Crisis: Ten Maps That Tell You Everything You Need To Know About Global Politics: Amazon.co.uk: Tim Marshall: 9781783962433: Books
In this episode I, your host, Sarah Cripps, interview Clare, who described her pre-lockdown life as a ‘one woman travelling circus’. It's now one where she appreciates the green of a leaf more than the green of a dollar. She has so sussed technology that her HOME button is the most important PRESS key
Key shares in this inspiring episode:
The realisation that even though she thought she was running her own race; she was actually following the pack
Being sober isn’t boring; being hung over every Sunday is. How she’s stayed pretty much alcohol free for two years
How a professor changed her attitude forever on his first lecture
How inches - micro changes - lead to great successes and why you can’t do something else on top of a busy schedule
What it means to be truly authentic
How to be the best version of yourself
Being consistent – Clare describes her daily "fake commute" and other examples of discipline including digital hygiene and drinking four litres of water per day
Her greatest fear post lockdown and recommend read
Producer Karen Pirie:
Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @CornwallWoman
Host Sarah Cripps:
Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
Mentions:
De Montfort University
https://www.linkedin.com/school/de-montfort-university/
Professor Peter Stokes
https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-stokes-b7560425
One Inch at a Time – Any Given Sunday Al Pacino
https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=al+pacino+inches+speech+clean&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en-gb&client=safari#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:67476292,vid:2traDe9a_XE,st:0
Einstein
Einstein and the Art of Mindful Cycling – Ben Irvine
In this episode I, your host, Sarah Cripps, turn the tables by interviewing journalist, BBC producer and podcast guru, Karen Pirie. Listen to how she registered time not money as her number one currency and find out more about how she is way more productive than ever before. Karen’s insights give fantastic tips for us all to lead a more balanced working life. Small changes really do lead to big differences.
Key shares:
Why lockdown felt like she’d won the lottery
How she balances (and takes) more ‘me time’ with work time
How technology can take you down a rabbit hole
Why doing nothing is important sometimes
Set soft intentions for 12 months
Stop being so available
Her greatest fear post lockdown and recommended read
Karen: Instagram: karen.pirie and cornwallwoman
Twitter: @karenepirie and @CornwallWoman
Sarah: Instagram: cripps.sarah and bigbalancetheory
Twitter: @sarahcripps7 and @theory_balance
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcrippsand https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-balance-theory/
Linktr.ee/bigbalancetheory
Mentions:
Pocket www.getpocket.com
Laura Vanderkam Laura Vanderkam: How to gain control of your free time | TED Talk
Graham Field https://www.linkedin.com/in/graham-field-2570864
Joe Pinsker Joe Pinsker
An Acre of Barren Ground – Jeremy Gavron
Alisdair Stirling composer – Twitter @houseofhiss
How did business leaders react when the global pandemic forced new ways of working, thinking and behaving? In this first episode host Sarah Cripps shares her findings from interviews she did during lockdown among business professionals who just happened to be everyday people. We hear their learnings; from valuing the gift of time in our work schedules, overcoming anxiety and seeing ‘human’ put back into ‘human resources’. Some businesses innovated, but most developed a greater appreciation of our own and others’ sense of well-being and applied social conscience to business decisions. The greatest takeaway was a whole new meaning to the concept of work/life balance. How can small changes make a big difference? Welcome to the Big Balance Theory. Sponsored by Salad Skills.