By Sam Thomas
This is the Different Hats Podcast and I am on a mission to help the world to see success differently and achieve true happiness, purpose and fulfilment...
I believe everyone has a story
... more
The podcast currently has 156 episodes available.
Welcome to another powerful instalment in our short story series, where we uncover the pivotal moments that have shaped some of the most remarkable journeys over the past six seasons. In this episode, we’re honored to feature the extraordinary Rob Starr.
In this deeply moving conversation, Rob shares the incredible origin story of the Starr Trust. After the devastating loss of his father and with his business on the brink of collapse, Rob took out a £20,000 bank loan in a last-ditch effort to save it. But a chance encounter with his father’s window cleaner brought him back to the core values his dad had instilled in him—face your problems head-on and take action.
Instead of using the loan to salvage his business, Rob made a bold decision: he gave the money away to help a young adult in need. This selfless act sparked something extraordinary. Donations began to pour in, and with the support of his sister Tracey, the Starr Trust was born—an organization created to honor their father’s legacy by empowering young people. Over the past 16 years, the Starr Trust has raised over a million pounds and supported more than 4,000 young adults, proving that all it takes is for someone to believe in you and offer an opportunity, just as Rob’s father had believed in him.
Rob’s journey is a testament to resilience, generosity, and the profound impact of living with purpose. He is truly one of the most inspiring individuals I’ve had the pleasure of hosting on this podcast, and this short story showcases why.
This is the powerful message Rob leaves us with, and it’s a mantra he continues to live by. Since recording this episode, Rob has released his debut novel, The First Widow, which is available on Amazon and will also be featured at the Different Hats Live Show 'Book Launch' on Monday, October 21st.
#StarrTrust #RobStarr #LegacyOfHope #EmpoweringYouth #Resilience #FacingChallenges #DoItNow #InspiringJourneys #GivingBack #ChangingLives #YouthEmpowerment #BuildingCommunity #OvercomingAdversity #PodcastInspiration #DifferentHatsLive
Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/E3OOPEeFNiU
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
The First Widow
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Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to a compelling episode in our short story series, where we dive into the moments that have shaped the most inspiring journeys across six seasons. Today, we feature the extraordinary Vince Pemberton.
In this brilliant conversation, Vince reflects on his rise to CEO of Rivervale and the journey that started with Eagle Oak Vehicles, the company he and his father built together. Vince shares how the power of genuine connections led to supplying cars for Charlton Athletic Football Club and icons like Alan Curbishley, Gavin Peacock, Tony Cascarino, Teddy Sheringham, and Bradley Walsh—proving that relationships built on integrity can open remarkable doors.
Vince’s story embodies the core principle that “people buy people.” In both life and business, when you lead with honesty, trust, and authenticity, you create lasting relationships that fuel growth and success. This ethos has been the driving force behind Rivervale’s success and is a testament to Vince's character.
He also reflects on the pivotal support from his father, Alex Pemberton, who grounded him with timeless advice: never take anything for granted. Vince’s tribute is especially poignant, as Alex passed away just weeks after this episode was recorded.
Join us for an insightful short story that highlights the true power of connections with the incredible Vince Pemberton.
#PowerOfConnections #PeopleBuyPeople #BusinessIntegrity #EntrepreneurialJourney #VincePemberton #RivervaleSuccess #BuildingRelationships #LegacyAndLeadership #FamilyValues #NeverTakeAnythingForGranted #InspiringStories #ShortStorySeries #CEOInsights #BusinessGrowth #PodcastInspiration
Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/lAZxDqS02Ow
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to a deeply moving episode in our short story series, where we explore some of the most transformative moments from the past six seasons. Today’s episode features the remarkable Lyndsey Clay.
In this compelling short story, Lyndsey shares the raw and personal journey of how infertility altered the course of her life – and how, through immense courage, she chose to rewrite her narrative.
During World Childless Week, last week Lyndsey opens up about the profound isolation she felt as the only childless friend in her circle, feeling left behind while her peers moved forward. The heartbreak of a marriage ending in divorce by 35 left her feeling alone, with no husband and a shrinking social circle. But in the depths of loneliness, Lyndsey found her turning point.
She started her blog, Not The Blueprint, an honest exploration of what it means to defy societal expectations. It became the catalyst for her transformation from feeling like a victim to standing tall as a survivor. Lyndsey didn’t just overcome – she used her experience as a foundation to grow, build, and help others facing similar struggles.
This path led to the creation of Connected Brighton, a business designed to foster genuine human connections while supporting the local community. Through her work, Lyndsey reclaimed her confidence, found her purpose, and reignited her passion by building the connections she once craved.
Today, she’s not only a successful entrepreneur but an award-winning advocate for community and connection. Recognized as one of Small Business Britain’s Top 100 Female Entrepreneurs, Lyndsey's story is one of resilience, grit, and finding the truest version of yourself through life’s most challenging moments.
This episode is a testament to the idea that infertility doesn’t have to signal the end—it can be the beginning of something extraordinary.
#InfertilityJourney #RewriteYourStory #Resilience #OvercomingAdversity #Empowerment #ChildlessNotLess #FemaleEntrepreneur #BreakTheNorms #ConnectedBrighton #CommunityMatters #FindYourPurpose #InspiringWomen #NotTheBlueprint #SurvivorStrength #WorldChildlessWeek
Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/IZRYRuc7tz8
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to a transformative instalment of our short story series, where we reflect on some of the most profound moments from the past six seasons of the podcast. Today’s episode features the deeply inspiring Helen Guinness.
In this compelling short story, Helen takes us on a journey through the power of mindset. She unpacks how the limiting beliefs we've carried since childhood often become the barriers between us and our true potential. With clarity and conviction, Helen shows us how to silence that inner critic and reclaim the life we’re meant to live.
She reminds us that nothing is impossible – it all comes down to choice. By discovering your purpose, your Ikigai, you can break free from self-imposed limitations, turn dreams into reality, and find lasting happiness.
This episode offers just a glimpse of the immense wisdom Helen shares with the world. Tune in to be empowered, and walk away with a toolbox of insights to unlock your potential and create the life you truly deserve.
#PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift #OvercomingLimits #FindYourPurpose #Ikigai #LimitlessPotential #Inspiration #DreamBig #PositiveChange #LiveYourBestLife #SelfBelief #Empowerment #TransformYourLife #EntrepreneurMindset #UnlockYourPotential
Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/iDCNdpslWEo
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
⚠️ Warning ⚠️ This episode contains content that may be alarming to some listeners. We do talk about suicide which we know can be distressing.
Welcome to another powerful installment of our short story series, where we reflect on some of the most impactful moments from the past six seasons of our podcast. Today, in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, we are honored to share a deeply moving episode with the inspirational Daniel Gainsford.
The statistics are alarming:
In this episode, Daniel bravely opens up about his own experience with loss, having tragically lost a close friend to suicide in 2020. He shares his personal journey and reflects on the devastating impact these statistics have on families and communities.
Daniel emphasizes the urgent need for "pre-habilitation"—a proactive approach to mental health that focuses on mental fitness, much like we do with physical fitness. By talking openly and working on our mental resilience before crisis hits, we can work toward reducing these heartbreaking numbers and saving lives.
This conversation is a call to action. Join us as Daniel shines a light on the importance of early intervention, mental fitness, and the vital role we all play in suicide prevention.
This is more than a podcast episode—it's a powerful reminder of why mental health matters and the need for us to support one another.
#MentalHealthMatters #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #Resilience #SuicidePrevention #MentalFitness #LifeLessons #PodcastSeries
Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/CUkKnbLlAnM
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
*If you have been affected by any of the content during this interview you can reach out to any of the below:
Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org
My Black Dog - https://www.myblackdog.co/mental-health-charity
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This powerful message was just one of the many profound insights shared during our live podcast event with the inspirational Pippa Moyle at PLATF9RM in Hove.
The event was the culmination of a journey that began seven years ago when I first met Pippa in 2018. Reconnecting last year, I've witnessed her remarkable evolution into a powerhouse CEO and a source of inspiration for countless others, including myself.
In front of an engaged audience from our vibrant communities, Pippa opened up about her entrepreneurial journey—the highs and lows of building a business, her battles with imposter syndrome, and the exciting future of City Girl Network. Her story was a testament to resilience and authenticity, demonstrating the strength it takes to pursue your dreams amidst doubt and challenge.
Pippa's openness, honesty, and vulnerability in sharing her experiences created an incredibly supportive and safe space, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present. Her courage to speak her truth was both moving and unforgettable.
This event will remain etched in my memory for years to come, and I am delighted to share this inspiring episode with you.
#Inspiration #PippaMoyle #CityGirlNetwork #LivePodcast #Entrepreneurship #DreamBig #Authenticity #Leadership #PersonalGrowth
Watch the Live Episode here 🧢 https://youtu.be/z20UwjB7mrs
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to another installment of our short story series, where we revisit some of the most impactful moments from the past six seasons of our podcast.
As the Premier League kicked off this weekend, it felt fitting to release our next short story featuring Brighton & Hove Albion legend, Bruno Saltor. Bruno's story is one of resilience, honesty, and profound insight—truly a conversation that resonates on a deep level.
In this episode, Bruno shares his journey with me and Gary Peters, opening up about the struggles he's faced both in life and in his football career. From the darkest days of his final year at Valencia to the pressures of professional sports, Bruno speaks with raw honesty about the importance of asking for help and embracing vulnerability. He reminds us that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Bruno's story is a testament to the idea that suffering is a part of life—we all face tough times. But when those moments come, he encourages us to lean forward, to keep pushing through, and to remember that we’re not alone.
With the recent and tragic loss of Graham Thorpe to suicide, Bruno's words carry even more weight. His openness reminds us of the critical need to talk honestly about our struggles, to break down the stigmas surrounding mental health, and to shift the narrative so that we can collectively work to reduce the suicide rate.
This short story is filled with profound and powerful insights that will stay with you long after the episode ends. One message that particularly struck me was:
Join us for this moving conversation with Bruno Saltor—it's one you won’t want to miss.
#MentalHealthMatters #BrunoSaltor #LeanForward #BrightonAndHoveAlbion #Resilience #SuicidePrevention #PodcastSeries #LifeLessons #PremierLeague
Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/g5ARoyIHu8M
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to another profound installment of our short story series, where we revisit the most inspirational insights from the past six seasons of our podcast. Continuing with our Olympic theme, we are deeply honored to feature British Olympic Gold medalist and figure skating legend, Robin Cousins MBE.
In this episode, Robin shares a powerful message about the importance of pursuing something in life that you genuinely love and that truly fulfills you. He reflects on how great athletes—like David Beckham, Tiger Woods, Torvill & Dean, and himself—didn’t embark on their journeys with the sole goal of reaching the Olympics. Instead, they were driven by the sheer joy and thrill of their craft. The Olympics became a part of their story, not the starting point.
Robin also sheds light on the critical lesson of embracing failure as a stepping stone to success. He vividly describes the relentless cycle of falling and getting back up—falling 100 times but nailing it once, and how that one success fuels the perseverance to keep going. Each fall teaches us something invaluable, shaping the path to mastery. As Robin wisely puts it, the goal isn’t to avoid mistakes but to learn from them and fall less often the next time.
We also delve into the timeless debate: what truly leads to greatness—talent or hard work? Robin’s perspective is both insightful and inspiring:
“Let people have their 15 minutes of fame, but give me the person who’s interested in doing the work to get 15 years.”
This episode is a tribute to the power of dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of passion. Robin Cousins’ journey is a testament to what we can achieve when we do something we love and are willing to put in the hard work. His story serves as a reminder that true success is not just about reaching the pinnacle, but about the relentless effort, the falls, and the joy found in the journey.
Join us for this enlightening conversation with Robin Cousins and discover the profound wisdom that comes from a life dedicated to both passion and perseverance. Whether you’re an athlete, an entrepreneur, or someone simply striving for your personal best, Robin’s insights will resonate deeply and inspire you to keep pursuing what you love with unwavering commitment.
Tune in and let this episode guide you on your own path to greatness.
#RobinCousins #OlympicChampion #FigureSkating #PassionAndPerseverance #HardWorkPaysOff #Inspiration #SuccessMindset #SportsMotivation #OvercomingFailure #DedicationToExcellence #PodcastSeries #LifeLessons #AthleticJourney #OlympicLegends #PersonalGrowth
Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/KfxKDKgte84
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to another instalment of our short story series, where we revisit some of the most inspirational insights from the past six seasons of our podcast. Continuing with our Olympic theme, we are honoured to feature British Olympic Silver medalist, the extraordinary Leon Taylor.
🌟 Overcoming the Shadows: A Battle with Mental Health 🌟
In this episode, Leon Taylor courageously opens up about his struggles with mental health and depression following the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney. He shares the harrowing experience of returning to the sport he loved after two shoulder surgeries, and the journey to rediscovering his joy and passion.
💪 Resilience in the Face of Adversity 💪
Leon recounts his descent into one of the darkest periods of his life, describing how he almost hit rock bottom. Despite the overwhelming challenges, he learned invaluable skills, demonstrating incredible resilience and strength. His triumphant return to the podium at the 2004 Olympics is a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering determination.
🧘 The Power of Breath: Transforming Mind and Body 🧘
In this enlightening short story, Leon shares the transformative practice of breath work and its profound impact on mental and emotional well-being. He explains how simple daily steps can reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and help us achieve a flow state, providing a powerful tool for personal transformation.
🚀 Cultivating an Olympic Mindset 🚀
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Leon Taylor that delves deep into the mindset of an Olympic Silver Medalist. Learn how to cultivate resilience, harness the power of breath work, and apply these lessons to achieve greatness in your own life.
#LeonTaylor #Olympics #StateofMind #MindsetMatters #JourneyToSuccess #BeYourBest #Inspiration #PodcastSeries #LifeLessons #Paris2024 #OvercomingAdversity #Resilience
Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/J1ufOCQ7ONM
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to another profound installment of our short story series, where we revisit some of the most inspirational insights from the past six seasons of our podcast. As the Paris 2024 Olympics begin, we are thrilled to feature British Olympic Champion, the extraordinary Sally Gunnell OBE.
🌟 Harnessing the Power of a Positive Mindset 🌟
In this episode, we explore the transformative power of a positive mindset. Sally reflects on her iconic Olympic gold medal victory at the Barcelona 1992 Olympics, revealing that 70% of what set her apart from her competitors that day was her mindset—a strength she had diligently cultivated following a disappointing performance at the World Championships the previous year.
🚀 The Journey to Excellence 🚀
Sally shares invaluable insights into the importance of understanding and embracing the process. She emphasizes the significance of setting clear goals while remaining present and finding joy in the journey toward those goals. Although she reflects that one of her career regrets was not adhering to this message and enjoying those magical moments more. Although her wisdom underscores that true success lies in the journey, not just the destination.
💪 Being the Best Version of Yourself 💪
A key takeaway from Sally's story is the importance of striving to be the best version of yourself. She stresses the value of giving your all each day and finding peace in knowing you did your best. This mindset, she believes, is crucial for both personal and professional growth.
🌍 Lessons from a British Olympic Icon 🌍
Even in this brief episode, Sally Gunnell’s insights offer a treasure trove of lessons on life, mindset, and achieving your potential. Her journey from disappointment to Olympic glory is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of a positive mindset.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will leave you with profound insights on cultivating a champion’s mindset and achieving greatness in your own life.
#SallyGunnell #OlympicChampion #MindsetMatters #JourneyToSuccess #BeYourBest #Inspiration #PodcastSeries #LifeLessons #Paris2024 #AchievingPotential
Watch the Short Story here 🧢 https://youtu.be/yYYC-trSlt4
Listen here or wherever you get your podcasts 🧢 https://linktr.ee/differenthats
Special thanks to our sponsors and producers who make these moments possible.
OUR SPONSORS
Rivervale 🧢 https://www.rivervale.co.uk/
Plus X 🧢 https://www.plusxinnovation.com/
Rubix VT 🧢 https://www.rubixvt.com/
Nostos Hove 🧢 https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/
OUR PRODUCERS
H2 Productions Ltd 🧢 https://h2productions.co.uk/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The podcast currently has 156 episodes available.
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