Brave Conversations with Lee Walls

In this episode of Brave Conversations, I’m joined by Windy Wilson, a familiar and trusted voice to many across Scotland.What started as a light-hearted interest in the weather grew into a significant online following, and then into something far more meaningful. Windy shares how his son’s heart condition changed everything, shifting his focus from forecasts to fundraising, awareness, and action around cardiac health.We talk about heart screening for young people, why early checks matter, and how easily these conversations are avoided until it’s too late. Windy speaks openly about the emotional impact on his family, the responsibility he feels using his platform, and the quiet determination behind the charity work he now champions.There’s a grounded honesty running through this conversation. No drama, just someone who understands how fragile life can be and chooses to use his voice well.We also explore authenticity, showing up as yourself online, and why appreciating the ordinary days matters more than we think.A thoughtful, moving conversation about heart health, responsibility, and what bravery looks like when life gives you a sharp wake-up call.As ever, I finish by asking the same question I ask everyone.What does brave mean to you?

Gavin Oattes joins me for a brilliant chat about the messy bits of life, the funny bits, and the small moments that keep us going. He talks about his journey from comedy to teaching, and why playfulness shouldn’t disappear just because we’ve become adults with bills.Gavin opens up about anxiety and how it shaped his book, Confidently Lost. We get into glimmers too, those tiny sparks of joy that can pull you back from the edge on a rough day. He shares a simple example of spotting one in the middle of a stressful morning, and how it shifted everything.We talk about how success changes as you get older, the power of being fully present, and why your energy matters more than anything you say.It’s honest, warm and full of reminders that vulnerability isn’t a weakness. If you’ve been feeling a bit lost lately, this one’s a good companion.

Season 3 opens with a bang. No easing in gently; we’re diving straight into the deep end with George Bell, author of Be A Man About It, a book that’s making a lot of folk rethink what masculinity actually means.George talks about growing up under the usual banners men get handed; be tough, don’t cry, sort yourself out. He lays out the pressure cooker many boys are raised in and how those early rules still shape men long into adulthood. There’s a moment where he describes realising he’d spent years trying to be a version of himself that never quite fit. It’s the kind of line that makes you stop the recording and stare into the middle distance for a bit.We get into mental health, vulnerability and why being honest about how you’re doing is no weakness. George speaks openly friendships and the weight of expectations.This episode is a reminder that men need space to tell the truth about their lives; that self-compassion isn’t indulgent; and that bravery sometimes looks like saying “I’m not okay.”If you’re raising boys, loving men, working with men or you are a man trying to make sense of the rules you grew up with, this one’s worth your time.

Join Caroline as she shares her heartfelt journey of healing after the loss of her husband to suicide. Discover her path to resilience, the power of therapy, and the importance of community support.Key Points:Caroline's early life and meeting her husband, Steve. The impact of Steve's sudden death and the challenges of grieving. Caroline's "Triangle of Recovery" and the role of therapy. The importance of community support and practical help. Caroline's journey to finding hope and strength through writing and advocacy.Resources:Caroline's book: "Daddy Blackbird" Charities: Doctors in Distress, SOBS (Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide)Hashtags: #SuicideAwareness #HealingJourney #ResilienceCall to Action: If you know someone struggling, reach out and offer support. Specific questions can make a big difference.Mentioned in this episode:Firewalkscotland can be found herewww.firewalkscotland.co.uk Firewalk Scotland

In this episode, we explore the concept of "Good Girl Deprogramming" with Michelle Minnikin, an organisational psychologist and author. Michelle shares her personal journey of breaking free from societal expectations and the pervasive "good girl" conditioning that affects women from a young age. Through candid discussions, she reveals the tools and insights that helped her and others reclaim their true selves. Join us as we uncover the layers of conditioning, challenge the status quo, and empower listeners to live authentically and unapologetically.