The Excitable Soul

Excited to share another transformative episode from "The Excitable Soul Podcast" featuring the incredible Pierre Verstraeten! In this conversation, we delve deep into the themes of purpose, self-creation, and the power of intentional choices. In a world perpetually in motion, finding a true calling can often appear daunting. Pierre, through his personal and professional journey, illustrates that purpose is not merely about discovery but about deliberate creation and evolution. Here are three key takeaways from our discussion: Creating Yourself Through Choices**: Pierre emphasizes not merely finding oneself but consciously creating oneself through each decision. This process involves a high degree of self-awareness and responsibility. The Role of Continuous Learning and Practice**: Mastery does not arrive as perfection but as progress. Continuous learning and the willingness to adapt are crucial in aligning with one's evolving purpose.  The Power of Humility and Emotional Intelligence**: True growth involves humility and emotional intelligence. It's about owning one's story, learning from every experience, and allowing those lessons to fuel your future decisions and interactions. Whether you're looking to pivot in your career, enhance your personal development, or gain deeper insight into living with intentionality, this episode offers profound wisdom and practical advice. Listen to the full episode to embark on your journey of self-reflection and purpose refinement. And if you’re keen to explore further, check out more information on our Purpose Immersion Programs here. 

This week on The Excitable Soul Podcast we hear about the journey of Mike Jennings, an esteemed Michelin-trained chef turned hospitality consultant, and owner of Hospitality Hut. Mike shares the profound shifts in his life, from the whirlwind of professional kitchens to the comfort and warmth of family life.  Key takeaways from our conversation with Mike: - **Embracing Change**: Mike's story teaches us the power of significant life changes and how altering career paths can lead to a deeper sense of fulfilment and happiness. - **Balancing Priorities**: The fast-paced demands of professional success do not always align with personal well-being. Mike's transition emphasises the importance of reassessing and nurturing personal relationships alongside his own health. - **Learning from Experience**: Life's journey is a great teacher. Mike reflects on how past experiences and challenges, like the immense pressure of a Michelin-starred kitchen, have paved the way for growth and realignment of his values. Listen to the full story of how Mike's upbringing and values led him to make courageous decisions for his well-being and to impact others positively in the hospitality industry. 

This episode brings you the incredible and inspiring story of Rob Hosking, a TEDx motivational speaker and former police officer with a profound narrative that is bound to leave a lasting impact on all of us. In today's conversation, Rob delves deep into his past, starting with a pivotal moment at age 11 that would set the tone for his life's trajectory. We explore the lessons learned from tough love, the drive to continually seek approval, and the heavy weight of expectations. From the influences of a family rooted in military and police service to a heart-wrenching rock bottom moment saved by the unwavering loyalty of a dog, Rob's experiences are a testament to the power of reflection. They highlight the courage it takes to align life with core values, even amidst the toughest challenges.  Rob's journey is not just about personal struggles but also about triumph, finding self-worth from within, and learning to be the driver of your own fate. It is a story of transformation from living a life defined by others to discovering true happiness in the present. Sit tight as we delve into the importance of self-awareness, the courage to face life's battles, and the realisation that self-worth should never be tied to external validation. Let’s get ready to embrace the wisdom of saying 'no,' the power of asking the right questions, and the freedom that comes with living an aligned life. 

In this week's episode I sit down with the remarkable Sarah Broadhead, an occupational psychologist and author whose life's work revolves around facilitating personal growth and understanding. Sarah takes us on a journey through her influences, from her beloved English teacher to her spirited grandmother. Discover how her deep empathy and passion for helping others are fuelled by her own experiences and how a man named Pete changed not just his life but Sarah's outlook on the power of coaching. Sarah also dives into the significance of storytelling in finding life's purpose, the role of feedback in personal development, and why taking risks can be the pivot point in shaping a fulfilling career.

Episode 15 of The Excitable Soul Podcast, where we explore the profound journey of self-discovery and the quest for true fulfilment with our guest, Arjun Sahdev.  Arjun shares his insights on redefining success, embracing intrinsic values, and cultivating a purpose-led life. During the conversation, he delves into his journey of confronting perfectionism, reevaluating priorities, and the transformational power of taking leaps of faith in life. He shares the pivotal moments that shaped his perspective, including leaving investment banking and founding his own business.  This episode marks a remarkable exploration of the shift from seeking external validation to finding fulfilment in intrinsic joy and meaningful connections, particularly with loved ones. Arjun's story serves as a profound reminder of the importance of reevaluating our personal values and striving for a balanced distribution of intrinsic and extrinsic values to cultivate happiness and fulfilment. We encourage you to listen to our conversation with Arjun Sahdev on The Excitable Soul Podcast and discover the transformative power of embracing intrinsic values and pursuing a purpose-led life.

In this latest podcast episode, I engage in a thought-provoking conversation with guest Gary Steeples, diving deep into the emotive elements and humility that define our purpose and impact on the world. Listen in as Gary Steeples shares his mission to create joy and make a meaningful impact, drawing from his personal experiences and a desire to see opportunities for others. Together we explore the significance of intentional communication, the power of human interaction, and the importance of valuing relationships in both personal and professional contexts. In this episode, Gary reflects on his personal journey of rediscovering his sense of purpose, prioritising it over status and money, and embracing vulnerability to foster personal growth. He shares insights on taking leaps of faith, overcoming self-doubt, and finding success by doing what he loves and is passionate about. From challenging moments to moments of excitement and courage, this conversation delves into the transformative power of introspection, intention, and embracing the unknown. Join us as we explore the themes of purpose, growth, and the pursuit of true fulfilment.

Welcome to The Excitable Soul Podcast, where we delve into the stories and experiences that shape our sense of purpose. In today's episode, I sit down with guest Kurt Lindley, a man whose journey through life has been marked by profound moments of self-discovery and personal growth. Kurt shares his struggles with mental health, the significance of navigating daily challenges, and the pivotal role of finding purpose and meaning. From the exploration of faith to redefining life after loss, Kurt offers genuine insights into finding purpose.    Join us as we uncover the power of connection, coping strategies, and the importance of introspection in crafting a life of authenticity and contribution.

In this episode, we sit down with Sam Whale, co-founder of Unforgiving Minute and a prominent figure in shaping the UK sports system. Sam delves into his journey of self-discovery, reflecting on his childhood experiences that have shaped his core values and decision-making. From his emotional volatility to finding purpose through leadership and intuition, Sam shares profound insights into the transformative moments that have impacted his life. Join us as we explore the themes of curiosity, activism, and the importance of patience in pursuing long-term goals. So, sit back, relax, and join us for a insightful conversation about finding meaning and connection in life.  

Episode 11 of The Excitable Soul Podcast, where we explore the journey of discovering purpose and meaning through real-life experiences. In this episode, our guest, Alex Richards, shares a powerful story of self-discovery and transformation. A former criminal psychologist turned successful technology professional, and soon-to-be father, Alex reflects on a pivotal moment six months ago that challenged his understanding of purpose. Join us as we delve into his journey of unraveling his sense of purpose, balancing responsibility and adventure, and finding focus amidst a whirlwind of life-changing events. Alex shares his insights on taking control, nurturing relationships, and the impact of his upcoming fatherhood on his evolving sense of purpose. Listen in as we explore the profound impact of finding purpose in everyday life in this episode of The Excitable Soul Podcast.

Welcome to The Excitable Soul Podcast, where we explore the profound journey of finding purpose and meaning in our lives. In this episode, host I am joined by the inspiring Kerry Cullen, who, despite initial academic challenges, pursued her passion for psychology and went on to work in the Caribbean. This conversation dives deep into the power of intuition, the necessity of slowing down and listening to our inner knowing, and the transformative impact of facing our mortality.  From reframing self-worth to embracing life's impermanence, this dialogue is a powerful exploration of self-discovery and overcoming fear. Join us on a journey of resilience, courage, and the beauty of imperfection. Let's dive in.

Today, I am thrilled to introduce my guest, Joseph Glover. Together, we'll take you on a journey through the diverse experiences that have shaped Joey's remarkable life. From his eclectic musical path to his unexpected caregiving role and the joys and challenges of fatherhood, Joey's story is a tapestry of unique moments that have led him to a profound understanding of his sense of self. As we navigate through Joey's life, we'll uncover the hidden gems and pivotal moments that have helped him unleash his true purpose. From the heavy music that became his retreat to the unexpected turns that led him to independence and fatherhood, Joey's story is a testament to the power of resilience, curiosity, and the capacity to embrace life's surprises. Get ready to join the dots as we unveil Joey Glover's life story, and embrace the power of purpose and belonging.

In this episode, we uncover the inspiring journey of Nigel Thomas, a man whose life has been shaped by purpose, hard work, and the pursuit of meaning. From caring for his mother with multiple sclerosis to winning the Royal Welsh Show in butchery and serving in the military, Nigel has faced numerous challenges, all of which have led him to a profound understanding of emotions, personal growth, and the importance of aligning actions with values.  In my conversation with Nigel, we delve into the significance of simplicity, love, vulnerability, and connection in shaping our lives. Nigel shares personal insights about navigating emotions, the power of vulnerability in relationships, and the importance of living by one's values. His courageous journey from a place of self-doubt to embracing patience and simplicity offers inspiration for any individual seeking to uncover their purpose. Nigel's experiences also shed light on the impact of childhood experiences, personal challenges, and the value of small daily achievements in shaping mindset and trajectory. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the potential within each of us to align actions with values, make positive changes, and find fulfilment. We invite you to join us on this enriching exploration as we uncover the transformative potential within each of us and strive to unleash our true purpose in life. This is a story of resilience, vulnerability, love and the power of finding purpose in life.

Welcome back to The Excitable Soul Podcast! I'm your host, James Glover, and today's episode is a special one as we have a true leader in the world of sports performance joining us. I'm thrilled to introduce our guest, Kevin Currell, the director of performance support and science at the UK Sports Institute. In this episode, Kevin and I delve deep into the captivating topic of purpose. We explore how understanding, accessing, and unleashing purpose can shape our lives, careers, and the world around us. Our conversation is deeply rooted in the power of finding meaning and connection, and we reflect on the impact of creating an environment that goes beyond ambitious sports goals. We'll uncover the significance of the London 2012 Olympic Games and how it united people beyond mere performance. Kevin shares his inspiring journey, from growing up on a farm and observing his purpose-driven grandfather to excelling in the world of sports performance. As we join the dots of his experiences, we unveil the driving force behind his relentless pursuit of excellence and his passion for proving doubters wrong. Through Kevin's unique perspective, we understand the individual nature of purpose and its influence on leadership, self-worth, and personal growth. Our discussion emphasises the importance of embracing fear and unknown challenges, and we explore how purpose can navigate uncertainty and open new doors in our lives and careers. Let's uncover, understand and unleash the essence of purpose that drives us to be our best selves. Welcome to an episode that promises to leave you feeling invigorated and determined to navigate life with a renewed sense of purpose.

Today, we continue to dive deep into the topic of purpose and finding meaning in our lives. In this podcast episode with Annalie Howling, a performance coach with over 20 years of experience working with leaders in various industries. Annalie shares her personal journey of rediscovering her true self, finding purpose, and embracing vulnerability. The idea of joining the dots throughout our lives really resonates here. Annalie explained that our purpose is not something external that we need to chase, but rather an inner quest to uncover the unique gifts and passions that already exist within us. It's about connecting the different aspects of ourselves and aligning our actions with our true values. Annalie encourages us to pay attention to the moments when we feel lost or overwhelmed, as these can be critical opportunities for growth. By seeking help and guidance, whether through coaching, therapy, or supportive communities, we can peel back the layers that have accumulated over time and rediscover our authentic selves. Another powerful concept that Annalie touches on is the importance of self-worth. Many of us struggle with doubts and insecurities, especially when faced with challenging situations or when embarking on new endeavors. Annalie shared her own journey of building self-worth, emphasising the significance of self-compassion and understanding that we deserve better than the trauma we may have experienced. Annalie's story serves as a reminder that finding purpose and embracing vulnerability is a personal journey. It's about giving ourselves permission to show up fully, to take leaps of faith, and to access our intuition. As a podcast community, we want to encourage you to start small with your own transformations. Join us in uncovering and understanding your unique gifts, and unleashing your purpose in whatever way feels true to you. Remember, it doesn't have to be a massive career change, but rather finding those resonant moments that set you on your path. If you haven't had a chance to listen to our podcast episode with Annalie Howling, we highly recommend it. Her insights, vulnerability, and inspiring journey are not to be missed. Thank you for being part of The Podcast community! We are excited to continue exploring purpose, meaning, and connection with you. Wishing you a week filled with self-discovery and purpose-driven actions.

Get ready to dive deep into the topic of purpose and meaning with the incredible Dr. Kate Goodger. Dr. Kate Goodger is a renowned performance psychologist with an impressive track record, having worked with Team GB athletes and leading executives. Her expertise in helping individuals unlock their full potential makes her the perfect guest for The Excitable Soul Podcast.  In this episode, we explore the connection between purpose, personal growth, and our impact on the environment. The discussion sheds light on the role everyday people, like you and me, can play in finding solutions to environmental challenges. Throughout the episode, we gain valuable insights into building a life of purpose and meaning. Kate shares her personal journey of transitioning from a sports career to working in construction, and how she found renewed purpose and pride in her work. She emphasises the significance of reflection, resilience, and letting go of things that no longer serve us in our pursuit of purpose. As a parent or caregiver, Kate reminds us of the fundamental lessons we can impart to our children, fostering their sense of purpose and connection to the world around them. We explore the power of discussing values and embracing curiosity and interest in shaping their path towards a purposeful life. The conversation offers valuable insights into understanding the emotions associated with purpose and the need to acknowledge both positive and negative feelings. Kate addresses the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities and the importance of self-care in any role we undertake. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of purpose and the incredible journey towards living a life aligned with our deepest values. 

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Podcast! In today's episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming a very special guest, Jean Gomes. Jean is a New York Times bestselling author and a trusted advisor to CEOs and leaders. Known for his expertise in neuroscience and experimental psychology, Jean's focus is on creating more human organisations and fostering well-being and leadership. He has worked with major brands like Google, Nike, and Pfizer, and his insights have been shared at prestigious institutions like Oxford University. During our conversation, we dive into the power of intuition, problem-solving, and uncovering meaning. We explore the importance of joining the dots and embracing divergent thinking in our fast-paced lives.  We explore the long-term implications of our decisions, particularly in areas like marriage and family dynamics. Jean highlights the significance of imagination in constructing future scenarios and harnessing positive emotions. One of the most transformative moments in Jean's life came from a meeting with Tony Schwartz, founder of The Energy Project. Tony's observation about negative emotional spaces and our sense of value sparks a profound realisation for Jean. We dig deep into the concept of emotional conviction and its role in navigating uncertainty and making meaningful bets on the future. We also explore the idea of suppressed values and the importance of well-being and optimism in leading a fulfilling life. Join us as we uncover the secrets to clarity, purpose, and understanding with the incredible Jean Gomes. This episode is packed with actionable insights and powerful storytelling that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to unleash your true potential. Let's dive in!

In today's episode, I am joined by the incredible, Nicky Lowe. Nicky's life took a transformative turn when she experienced burnout. This personal struggle not only shaped her as a person but also influenced her approach to work. Nicky describes this painful experience as an opportunity for self-reflection, which ultimately lead her understand her purpose better. Throughout her journey, Nicky has undergone several iterations, each contributing to her growth and understanding of herself. Nicky believes that difficult experiences can often serve as a catalyst for self-discovery and purpose. Throughout the conversation, Nicky shares insights into her childhood, highlighting the impact of her mother's parenting and her own journey of self-acceptance. From a successful corporate career that left Nicky feeling unhappy and burned out, to a pivotal moment that led to a transformative shift, Nicky shares her story of breaking free from societal expectations and embracing a more fulfilling path. Together we delve into the concept of purpose, discussing how it connects our intellectual clarity with emotional conviction, and empowers us to navigate the challenges we face. We deeper explore the importance of sustainable performance and energy, shedding light on the individual and systemic factors contributing to burnout. Get ready for a thought-provoking and inspiring episode that will leave you reflecting on your own journey and the meaningful pursuits that bring joy and fulfilment. Tune in to this episode for an exploration of purpose, burnout, and breakthrough. Let's get started!

Welcome back to our next episode of "The Excitable Soul Podcast!" Today, we have a truly inspiring guest joining us - Isabel Coman, the Director of Engineering and Asset Strategy at Transport for London, with over 20 years of industry experience. In this episode, Isabel takes us on a journey of purpose, impact, and self-discovery. Isabel candidly reflects on her own career and offers profound insights on finding meaning and unleashing potential, emphasizing the importance of being part of a team, both in the work environment and at home.   She believes that being part of something bigger than oneself and making a societal impact is deeply fulfilling. She also highlights the desire for independent and unique expression, which plays a significant role in her journey. Throughout the episode, Isabel and I delve into the importance of clear purpose and the power it holds in making decisions that align with our values. We discuss the role of self-reflection, growth, and acknowledging imperfection in our paths towards fulfillment.  This conversation with Isabel Coman will leave you inspired and motivated to embrace purpose, unleash your potential, and find joy in all areas of life. So, get ready to dive deep into this conversation on purpose and contribution in our episode, Purposeful Impact: Aligning Personal and Professional Aspirations for a Meaningful Life Don't forget to hit that subscribe button, leave a review, and share your thoughts on this episode of "The Excitable Soul Podcast." Now, let's get started!

Welcome to the very first Excitable Soul Podcast, where we explore purpose, inspiration, and connecting the dots in our lives. In this special episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with artist and educator, my lifelong collaborator and spirt guide Rebecca Irving, who also happens to be my younger sister! Together, we delve into her journey of finding purpose and meaning, and how she has embraced the power of taking leaps of faith and finding alternative paths.  Here are 3 key takeaways from our conversation: 1️⃣ There is more than one way: Rebecca shares how she has taken leaps of faith and embraced alternative paths to achieve her goals. She believes that there are always multiple ways to approach any situation in life, and finding those unique routes can lead to incredible opportunities.   2️⃣ Purpose through connection: Rebecca emphasises the importance of understanding the threads that shape us, and articulating a clear purpose. When we believe in others, they can believe in themselves, and together, we can create more possibilities. Purpose is not about conforming to one set path, but about finding what brings us joy and meaning.   3️⃣ The power of stories: Throughout the episode, we explored the impact of sharing our experiences and the stories that have shaped us. Rebecca's own personal journey, from navigating career shifts to finding purpose in supporting others, showcased the transformative power of storytelling. Our stories have the ability to inspire, uplift, and ignite change in ourselves and those around us.   We hope you enjoy this first episode of The Excitable Soul Podcast.   Stay tuned for more thought-provoking conversations and inspiring stories. And remember, with purpose, anything is possible!  James