ChatterBeans Podcast

This week, I’m joined by HYROX athlete, coach, and all-round inspiring human Dean Jackson, for an honest and heartfelt conversation about life, fitness, and what happens when you stop pretending everything’s okay.

We chat about Dean’s journey into the HYROX world - what started as a personal challenge became a community and a new sense of purpose. Dean opens up about the struggles he’s faced, how coaching others has helped him grow, and why he believes we need to talk more - especially men.

We also cover:

• Finding confidence and clarity through coaching
• Men’s mental health and breaking the stigma
• What makes HYROX different from other fitness events
• Parenting, purpose and learning from your past
• Why social media can be both inspiring and exhausting
• Growing through tough times – and helping others do the same

Dean shares powerful reflections on childhood, parenting, and why being vulnerable is actually a strength.

Whether you're into fitness, mental health, parenting, or just love a good story about personal growth - this one’s for you.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Dean Jackson and His Journey

01:07 - The Impact of the HYROX Community

05:11 - Coaching and Personal Growth

07:42 - Mental Health and Masculinity

11:43 - Breaking the Stigma of Men's Mental Health

12:32 - The Role of Social Media in Mental Health

15:10 - Fatherhood as Motivation

16:34 - The Future of HYROX and Youth Involvement

21:07 - Growing Up in an Army Family

24:24 - Sports and Personal Development

25:25 - Overcoming Early Life Challenges

28:13 - Parenting Perspectives and Challenges

30:28 - Future Goals and Aspirations

32:13 - Life Lessons and Mental Health Awareness

34:57 - The Importance of Community and Support

36:57 - Coffee Conversations and Inspirations

39:13 - Finding Joy in Helping Others

40:13 - Quick-fire Round: Fun Insights

Connect with Dean Jackson on Instagram

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Isaac chats with Mimi Thompson about her journey from growing up in Thailand to forging a new life in London. Mimi opens up about navigating cultural differences, adjusting to a new social scene, and the emotional ups and downs of post-college life. Together, they dive into deep and meaningful topics - feminism, emotional vulnerability, women’s health, and the power of creative expression through writing and poetry.

Expect insights on patriarchy, girl’s education, Taylor Swift, unlearning old beliefs, and the underrated importance of having fun. Whether you're into cultural conversations, creative musings, or thoughtful reflections on relationships and growth—this one’s for you.

We talk about:

• Growing up in Thailand and adjusting to London

• Feminism, patriarchy, and women’s health

• Writing, creativity, and finding your voice

• Friendship, relationships, and emotional growth

• The power of unlearning and pursuing joy

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Mimi Thompson

03:02 - Cultural Contrasts: Thailand vs. London

06:02 - Creative Beginnings: Growing Up in Bangkok

08:55 - The Influence of Thai Buddhism

12:01 - Transitioning to American Life

15:13 - Navigating Friendships in London

18:02 - Creative Aspirations and Writing Journey

20:55 - Exploring Women's Health and Feminism

28:07 - Exploring Feminism Through Bell Hooks

31:54 - The Impact of Patriarchy on Gender Dynamics

34:14 - Volunteering and Advocacy for Education

38:02 - Cultural Reflections on Identity and Preferences

39:10 - The Joy of Writing and Creative Expression

42:27 - Unlearning and Letting Go

47:02 - Pursuing Fun Over Happiness

49:16 - Quick-fire Round: Personal Insights

Connect with Mimi on Instagram to see her writing and poetry.

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

This week on ChatterBeans, we meet Charlie - coach, performer, future husband, and walking ball of chaotic joy. From the front row of a musical to the front of a gym class, Charlie shares how fitness transformed his life and why coaching feels a lot like group therapy.

We talk about:

• Leaving the stage for the studio
• ADHD, social anxiety & mental health in fitness
• Planning a winter wedding with intention (and humour)
• Creating safer, more inclusive spaces in a testosterone-heavy world
• Why matcha beats coffee, and what it means to stop saying yes to everything

This is one of those raw, honest, laugh-out-loud episodes that reminds us joy is resistance - and showing up as you are is enough.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Charlie Wallace

01:32 - Navigating Wedding Planning and Personal Life

16:19 - Career Transition to Fitness Coaching

22:17 - The Fitness Industry and Coaching Philosophy

30:04 - Exploring ADHD and Personal Insights

32:36 - Navigating ADHD Diagnosis

40:47 - Embracing Change and Self-Awareness

52:16 - Life Lessons and Unlearning

55:40 - Quic-fire Reflections and Future Aspirations

Connect with Charlie on Instagram

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

In this brilliant episode of ChatterBeans, we sit down with performer and world traveller Lavinia Mai to explore what it means to truly grow through movement - both physically and emotionally.

Lav shares her vibrant journey as a dancer and singer on cruise ships, detailing her six-month adventure around the Bahamas and her upcoming second contract. She opens up about the joy and discipline of performing, life on board, and the unique lifestyle that blurs the lines between work and play.

The conversation dives deep into Lav’s recent teaching experience in Thailand, where she reconnected with her roots and faced the realities of travelling solo, navigating visas, and learning a new language. Together, we explore themes of cultural immersion, self-acceptance, unlearning insecurities, and the freedom that comes from embracing individuality.

Expect laughter, honesty, and thoughtful reflections - from coffee preferences to life lessons learned in unexpected places.

Whether you’re an artist, traveller, or someone chasing joy in your own way - this episode will speak to you.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Lav's Journey

03:08 - Life on a Cruise Ship

05:53 - The Transition to Performing Arts

08:57 - Exploring Thailand and Cultural Connections

11:58 - The Challenges of Performing and Traveling

15:04 - Teaching in Thailand and Language Learning

19:32 - Language Learning and Cultural Immersion

21:53 - Life Reflections and Future Aspirations

24:29 - Unlearning and Personal Growth

26:10 - Embracing Individuality and Self-Acceptance

30:45 - Quick-fire Round: Fun Insights and Favourites

33:38 - Joyful Experiences and Lasting Memories

Connect with Lav on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

In this powerful and uplifting episode, we meet MJ, a vibrant SoulCycle instructor whose journey from the classroom to the cycling studio is as moving as it is motivational. MJ opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, surviving rejection during SoulCycle’s intense audition process, and ultimately finding joy, belonging, and self-worth through fitness and community.

We talk Taylor Swift rides, London life, and how themed classes became a safe haven for connection. MJ shares personal stories about overcoming bullying, leaving alcohol behind, and embracing his LGBTQ+ identity with confidence and clarity. Through therapy and self-love, MJ has transformed his life—and now helps others do the same, one ride at a time.

Expect laughter, inspiration, and a raw, heartfelt conversation about growth, identity, and what it truly means to show up for yourself.

We cover:

• Leaving education for a career in fitness
• SoulCycle auditions, rejection, and rising again
• Building belonging through Taylor Swift rides
• LGBTQ+ identity, bullying, and embracing self-worth
• Imposter syndrome, therapy, and mental health
• Quitting alcohol, finding love, and rediscovering joy

Chapters

00:00 - From Classroom to Spin Studio: A Bold Transition

02:28 - The Audition Experience: Facing Rejection

04:49 - Finding Joy in Cycling: A New Beginning

07:12 - The Performative Aspect of Fitness Instruction

09:19 - Authenticity in Teaching: Being Real with Riders

11:41 - The Taylor Swift Connection: Building Community

15:02 - Exploring Future Aspirations: Beyond SoulCycle

16:51 - The Journey of a Teacher: From Passion to Burnout

30:06 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: A Personal Journey

35:12 - Life in London: Balancing Work and Social Life

38:42 - A Night Out Gone Wrong

42:57 - Reflections on Alcohol and Belonging

46:42 - Learning to Love Myself

52:44 - Finding Love Again

1:04:23 - Celebrating Joy in Relationships

Connect with MJ on Instagram.

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠.

In this first cup of Season 2, we sit down with Michaela Morgan in the US - a sixth-grade social studies teacher, grad student, comedy writer, and all-around gem. From managing a classroom in the aftermath of COVID-19 to navigating life with ADHD, Michaela opens up about the real challenges (and quiet joys) of modern teaching.

We talk about identity - what it means to show up as your full self at work, especially as an LGBTQ+ educator - and why finding community matters more than ever. Michaela shares honest reflections on being the youngest of five, her love of coffee culture, and why it’s okay to just have hobbies without turning them into side hustles.

This episode is full of heart, laughter, and life lessons from someone who’s teaching the next generation while figuring it out herself. Grab a warm brew and lean in - it’s good stuff.

Chapters

00:00 - Welcome to ChatterBeans Season 2

01:51 - Teaching in a Post-COVID World

07:03 - Navigating Identity and Community

12:35 - Life as a Middle School Teacher

19:52 - Balancing Personal and Professional Life

25:33 - The Journey with ADHD

31:02 - Life Lessons and Advice

35:58 - Coffee Culture and Personal Preferences

40:05 - Reflections on History and Future Aspirations

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.

In this special episode of ChatterBeans, host Isaac Kong reflects on the standout moments from the first season, highlighting the diverse stories and life lessons shared by the first 15 guests. From self-sufficiency and authenticity to the journey of building a fitness community and reinventing life in a new country, each chapter encapsulates the essence of human experience and connection. The episode serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of sharing our journeys with one another.

We'll be back with Season 2 in May - subscribe and follow the podcast, to be the first to hear the new episode as soon as it drops.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Chatterbeans and Season Highlights

01:10 - Asher Forth: The Journey of Self-Sufficiency

05:54 - Christopher Pyne: Coffee Conversations: Iconic Guests and Their Choices

09:27 - Lauren Reynolds: Building a Fitness Community

15:12 - Guillaume: Embracing Authenticity and Body Confidence

17:04 - Sam Hwang: The Unexpected Path to DJing

19:18 - Federico Viciani: Finding Belonging in a New Country

22:06 - Here's to Season Two

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.

In our final episode of Season 1 of ChatterBeans, Hayley shares her extensive experience in television production, detailing her journey from reality TV to documentaries. She discusses the evolution of the industry, her memorable experiences, and her transition into aesthetics after facing burnout. The conversation highlights the challenges and changes in the TV landscape, as well as personal growth and the importance of finding balance in one's career. In this conversation, Hayley shares her journey from a career in television to establishing a successful aesthetics business. She discuss the qualifications needed to enter the aesthetics field, her current study towards a Level 7 in aesthetics (the highest you can get!), the growth of the industry, and the challenges faced during their transition. The conversation highlights the importance of patience, persistence, and finding a niche in business, as well as innovative treatments like polynucleotides derived from salmon sperm(!). Hayley also reflects on personal insights and experiences, emphasising the joy of pursuing your passions!

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Hayley Ford's Journey

19:30 - Transitioning from TV to Aesthetics

12:01 - Breaking into the TV Industry

20:13 - Embracing Aesthetics: A Personal Journey

23:30 - The Impact of COVID-19 on Career Choices

28:00 - Transitioning from TV to Aesthetics

33:04 - Lessons Learned in Business and Patience

39:02 - The Future of Aesthetics and Personal Growth

Connect with Aesthetics by Hayley on Instagram

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.

In this heartwarming and empowering episode, Guillaume opens up about his personal journey from being a self-conscious “chubby kid” to becoming a confident athlete, coach, and advocate for body positivity in the LGBTQ+ community. Through stories of living in Australia and New Zealand, embracing fatherhood, and building the foundations of his personal brand The Fluffy Athlete, Guillaume shares how fitness became not just a physical transformation, but a path to self-love, confidence, and purpose.

We talk about breaking stereotypes in sports, creating inclusive and safe spaces, the role of nutrition, and how fashion and identity go hand-in-hand. Guillaume reminds us that fitness isn’t about performance - it’s about joy, community, and celebrating who you are right now. Today is all about:

• Body image & confidence
• LGBTQ+ visibility in athletics
• The joy of movement, not just performance
• Creating inclusive fitness spaces
• How personal growth and self-love go hand in hand
• Embracing fashion and breaking norms

This episode is a celebration of individuality, growth, and the power of community. Whether you're on a fitness journey or finding your voice, Guillaume’s story will inspire you to show up, fluff and all.

Chapters

00:00 - Embracing Body Positivity and Self-Love

13:00 - The Journey to Fitness and Confidence

29:59 - Navigating Personal Relationships and Identity

32:13 - Journey of Self-Discovery

36:08 - Coffee Preferences and Rituals

38:06 - Building a Supportive Community

44:01 - Life Lessons and Body Confidence

45:16 - Inspiration from Fashion Icons

52:14 - Quick Fire Round and Personal Insights

58:40 - Finding Joy in Everyday Moments

Connect with Guillaume, The Fluffy Athlete on Instagram

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to pack up your life and start fresh in a whole new country? In this episode of ChatterBeans™, I sit down with fashion designer Mare Anderson, who did just that - leaving behind Tennessee for the buzz of London. From navigating culture shock to finding a sense of belonging, she shares the highs, the challenges, and the unexpected lessons that come with settling into a new city.

Mare opens up about her journey in the bridal fashion industry, her love for creating beautiful things, and the personal stories woven into every custom design through her brand, The Mare Atelier. We talk about rejection, redirection, and the thrill of embracing uncertainty, plus a few fun surprises along the way. If you’ve ever dreamed of moving abroad, chasing a creative passion, or just figuring out where you truly belong, this episode is for you.

Chapters

00:00 - From Tennessee to London: A Journey of Change

02:54 - Cultural Shifts and Settling In

06:04 - The Challenges of Adapting to a New Environment

08:46 - Pursuing a Creative Dream in Fashion

12:11 - Building a Community in a New City

15:04 - The Art of Fashion Design and Personal Growth

17:50 - Finding Opportunities in London

21:01 - Navigating Personal and Professional Life

24:06 - Exploring Identity and Self-Discovery

26:49 - Coffee Culture and Daily Life in London

29:20 - Coffee Culture and Personal Preferences

31:29 - Dreams of a Bridal Brand

34:27 - Building a Creative Business

36:04 - Life in London: Challenges and Joys

37:29 - Cultural Reflections: Expat Perspectives

38:03 - Travel Experiences: Japan vs. London

40:38 - Inspirational Figures: Coffee with Sylvia Plath

44:27 - Life Lessons: Embracing Uncertainty

49:36 - Unlearning and Relearning

51:40 - Quick-fire Round: Fun Insights

Connect with Mare and find out more about The Mare Atelier on Instagram

Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠ for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.

Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at ⁠⁠⁠www.chatter-beans.com⁠⁠⁠.