Mind.Set podcast

Paralympic gold to purpose: Richard Whitehead’s sprint beyond sport

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:48:18 GMT

In this inspiring episode of the Mind.Set podcast, Paralympic gold medallist Richard Whitehead shares his journey from growing up in Nottingham to becoming one of Britain’s most celebrated athletes. With honesty and humour, Richard reflects on the challenges of navigating life with a disability, the power of sport to transform identity, and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. He discusses the mindset shifts that propelled him from marathon running to sprinting success, and how purpose, not medals, drives his ambition. From childhood memories to global podiums, Richard’s story is a testament to grit, gratitude, and the belief that limits are often self-imposed.

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Law, loss and leadership: Jodie Hill’s breakdown to breakthrough

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 12:52:31 GMT

In this episode of the Mindset Podcast, Jodie Hill shares her journey from aspiring doctor to barrister, solicitor, and founder of Thrive Law. Diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety later in life, she reflects on how neurodivergence shaped her empathy and drive, but also led to burnout and a breakdown in 2017. Through therapy and client support, she rebuilt her confidence and purpose. Thrive Law was born from her mission to create a psychologically safe, inclusive workplace. Jodie explores reframing failure, leading with empathy, and the power of listening. Her message: be kind to yourself and stop trying to fit in.

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Streets to the studio: Jon Rees' healing through photography

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 09:28:47 GMT

In this powerful episode of the Mind.Set Podcast, we sit down with photographer and therapeutic arts facilitator Jon Rees, whose remarkable journey from childhood trauma and homelessness to creative purpose and healing is both raw and inspiring.

Jon opens up candidly about growing up in a family impacted by addiction and mental illness, his early struggles with undiagnosed neurodivergence, and the spiral into substance use that led to years of street homelessness. But his story doesn’t end there. Through recovery, community support, and a chance encounter with a camera, Jon discovered photography as a form of visual meditation - one that helped him reconnect with the world and himself.

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Rock legends to rock bottom: Paul Henry’s story of transformation

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 10:32:03 GMT

In this deeply personal episode, psychotherapist Paul Henry shares his remarkable journey from the heights of the music and film industry, working with icons like Bob Marley and U2, to the depths of addiction and his path to recovery. Through candid storytelling, he reflects on resilience, reinvention, and the power of faith, offering insight into how adversity can lead to profound transformation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about overcoming fear, embracing change, and finding true purpose.

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Sandwiches to speeches: Nick Davies’ secret to communication success

Wed, 14 May 2025 12:30:10 GMT

In this episode of Mind.Set, we sit down with Nick Davies, a seasoned communication expert, entrepreneur, and self-professed Mancunian with a fascinating career journey. From dreaming up a sandwich business at 15 to traveling the world teaching professional services how to master communication, Nick’s story is one of determination, humour, and entrepreneurial grit.

We dive into the beginnings of his career, the unexpected turns, and how his background in comedy and law shaped his approach to training and consulting. If you’re keen to learn about the power of communication, the mindset behind self-employment, and some brilliant anecdotes along the way.

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Off the record: Sam McAlister’s journey from Barrister to Netflix

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 20:47:50 GMT

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into a candid conversation about life, career, and personal growth. Sam reflects on her journey, from feeling out of their depth on her first day in the high-pressure world of television production to working alongside broadcasting legends like Jeremy Paxman.

Sam discusses stepping into challenging roles with unshakeable self-belief, emphasising the importance of humility, vulnerability, and authenticity. With an honest look at failure, success, and self-discovery, our guest shares invaluable life lessons about building trust, embracing mistakes, and learning from every experience.

We explore the power of trusting your gut, the weight of fear, and the reality of living a life free from pretence. Whether it’s the high-stakes world of media or the quiet moments of self-reflection, this episode is a reminder that being true to yourself is the most rewarding path of all.

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Touchdowns to triumph: The game of life with Mo Massaquoi

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:18:13 GMT

In Episode 6 of Mind.Set we go global, as Luke sits down with former NFL athlete, Mohamed Massaquoi (Mo) to hear his story. From playing in the Cleavland Browns for 5 seasons, to later working at Morgan Stanely and subsequently becoming Managing Principal of VESSOL – Mo’s unique journey is a truly powerful one and testament to his incredible mindset. Despite experiencing a life altering injury which changed his world forever – Mo has continued to work to make an exceptional impact on the lives others through his inspiring story sharing the lessons he learned throughout his journey.

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Breaking through barriers: Leading in legal with Priyanka Usmani

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 14:09:44 GMT

In episode five, Luke sits down with Baker McKenzie Partner, Priyanka Usmani to explore her journey and how she navigates her career, motherhood and much more. Moving from India, to Australia and eventually to the UK – Priyanka unpacks the many lessons she learned along the way, and how despite your differences and the challenges of life – ultimately your competence will speak for itself.

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Rehab to recovery: Rising in the ranks with Luke Wilson

Wed, 15 May 2024 15:02:15 GMT

Interviewed by FRP Partner Clare Quinn-Waters, Luke takes the hot seat and delves into his battle with addiction. Unfiltered, raw and honest – this conversation highlights not only the physical torment but the emotional strain that comes with the process of recovery. With themes around mental wellness, the challenge of overthinking, making positive incremental changes and rebuilding – this is a must watch episode that provides insight into a fascinating journey that has seen Luke rise in the ranks and support others through their own personal struggles.

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Runway to renewal: From casting calls to finding his calling with Tash Kusi

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 13:23:48 GMT

In episode three, Luke catches up with Tash Kusi, former model turned Priest. Despite being presented with exciting prospects in the fashion industry, and working for brands including H&M and & Other Stories, Tash found himself searching for a deeper meaning. Packed with inspiring insights, raw honesty and transformational tips, Tash highlights the power of authenticity when finding your true purpose.

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Matters of the mind: The secrets of wellbeing with Abigail Hirshman

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 11:53:41 GMT

In episode two, Luke sits down with Abigail Hirshman, a distinguished mental health and wellbeing expert, business consultant and keynote speaker. In their conversation, Abigail explores her personal journey – and how making big decisions changed the course of her life. Through this honest conversation, Abigail provides practical and helpful tools to navigate challenges.

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Resilience and reinvention: From tackles to triumphs with Alistair Bone

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 12:13:56 GMT

In episode one, Luke sits down with Alistair Bone, former Wasps Rugby Player who experienced life changing news which led to a new career path. Alistair unpacks his journey, and how despite this he was able to successfully adapt, and change his mind set by using the tools he gained as a professional sportsman.

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