'Fear Less, Do More'

Award-winning Geordie actress, author, dancer, and broadcaster Jill Halfpenny joins Fear Less, Do More to share a heartfelt and candid conversation about resilience, grief, and life in the entertainment industry.

She reflects on her journey from growing up in Gateshead to building a successful career on stage and screen, navigating rejection, self-belief, and the challenges of sustaining a long-term creative path.

The discussion explores Jill’s experience with profound loss after the death of her partner and how grief reshaped her perspective on mortality, connection, and authenticity. She also talks about the impact of her Geordie accent on her career, the North East’s potential to evolve into a leading destination for film and television, and the value of embracing life’s challenges with courage, openness, and intention.

Honest, reflective, and quietly empowering, this episode blends personal insight with professional wisdom, encouraging listeners to pursue their passions, trust themselves, and live fully — even in the face of fear, loss, or uncertainty.

• Jill Halfpenny’s journey from dancer in Gateshead to award-winning actress

• Resilience, rejection, and sustaining a long-term career in the entertainment industry

• Grief and personal transformation after the loss of her partner

• Authenticity, emotional honesty, and building meaningful connections

• Believing in yourself and allowing new opportunities in life and career

• The influence of regional accents on acting opportunities and representation

• The North East as a potential hub for filming and creative projects

• Open conversations about mortality, planning for a good death, and living intentionally

• Navigating the challenges and pressures of a public career

• Courage, fear, and redefining success over time

• 00:00 – Introduction to Jill Halfpenny

• 02:16 – The Journey Begins: Early Influences and Aspirations

• 04:05 – The Impact of Mentorship: Ken Hill's Influence

• 06:36 – Being Young and Taking Risks

• 12:24 – Navigating the Transition to Drama School

• 15:12 – Resilience in the Face of Rejection

• 19:15 – Dealing with Grief: A Personal Story

• 23:33 – Finding Purpose Through Pain

• 30:14 – The Importance of Embracing Life's Impermanence

• 35:09 – Navigating Grief and Planning a Good Death

• 36:41 – The Importance of Conversations About Death

• 40:23 – Staying Open to Life's Lessons

• 43:04 – Choosing Roles: Emotional Impact vs. Professional Growth

• 45:26 – The Challenge of Typecasting in Acting

• 47:48 – Accent Bias and Career Opportunities

• 50:43 – The Need for Diverse Representation in Media

• 58:13 – The Future of Filming in the North East

• 01:04:01 – Closing Thoughts on Authenticity and Leadership

• Follow Jill Halfpenny on Instagram for updates on her projects and personal insights

• Jill’s Acting Credits on IMDB

• Check Out Jill’s Book – A Life Reimagined

• Gill Hunter on Square One Law

• Square One Law

• ‘Fear Less, Do More’ Podcast

• If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio 🦩
https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email [email protected] with the subject 'PODCAST’.

Key Topics CoveredChaptersLinks & ResourcesFind out more about your host Gill HunterRecommended Episodes

In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, host Gill Hunter is joined by Dr Craig Rose — marine biologist, entrepreneur, and founder of Seaweed & Co and Doctor Seaweed. Craig shares how he transformed a career in marine science into a fast-growing, sustainability-led health business built on evidence, trust, and innovation.

Craig explains why seaweed is a forgotten superfood and explores the science behind iodine deficiency, thyroid health, and the growing demand for natural, evidence-based nutritional supplements.

Together, Gill and Craig discuss how to build a credible health brand in a crowded wellness market, balancing scientific integrity with compelling consumer messaging. The episode also delves into sustainable seaweed harvesting, ethical product development, and the realities of scaling a business outside London.

Craig offers candid leadership lessons on focus, delegation, resilience, and learning from the natural world to drive long-term business growth.

Key Topics Covered

• Seaweed as a sustainable superfood and natural source of iodine
• Thyroid health, iodine deficiency, and women’s health
• Building a science-backed nutrition and wellness brand
• Ethical marketing and credibility in the supplement industry
• Sustainable seaweed harvesting and environmental impact
• From academia to entrepreneurship: Craig’s journey
• Leadership lessons from nature and business
• Scaling a business outside London and accessing investment
• Delegation, focus, and working on the business
• Fear, risk-taking, and long-term strategic growth

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to Doctor Seaweed
• 01:12 – The Nutritional Power of Seaweed
• 02:17 – Doctor Seaweed's Journey and Background
• 05:05 – The Business of Seaweed & Co.
• 06:49 – The Health Benefits of Seaweed
• 09:01 – Building Credibility in Health Products
• 12:35 – Sustainability in Seaweed Farming
• 15:41 – Innovative Uses of Seaweed
• 19:59 – The Future of Seaweed in Various Industries
• 22:03 – Reflecting on Past Choices
• 24:11 – Lessons from Nature: Competition and Innovation
• 25:34 – The Importance of Focus in Business
• 30:10 – New Product Launches and Market Adaptation
• 33:31 – Challenges of Funding in the North East
• 39:14 – Navigating Post-COVID Business Landscape
• 40:49 – Fear Less, Do More: Embracing Risk and Delegation

Connect with Craig Rose

• LinkedIn
• Doctor Seaweed Website
• Seaweed & Co. Website

Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

• Gill Hunter on Square One Law
• Square One Law
• ‘Fear Less, Do More’ Podcast

Recommended Episodes

• If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one




This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio 🦩
https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email [email protected] with the subject 'PODCAST’.

In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, host Gill Hunter speaks with Sarah Daniel, founder of MOTIONrehab, about pioneering neurological rehabilitation and how innovation is reshaping patient outcomes. Sarah shares her journey from working in the NHS to building a sector-disrupting private rehabilitation service, driven by a deep commitment to patient-centred care.

Together, Gill and Sarah explore the science of neuroplasticity and why the brain adapts after injury through intensive, repetitive therapy rather than repair. They discuss the role of robotics and technology in neurological rehabilitation, highlighting how digital tools can enhance patient engagement while supporting — not replacing — skilled physiotherapy.

This episode offers valuable insights into healthcare innovation, neurological recovery, and ethical leadership. It is essential listening for healthcare professionals, leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in neuroscience, rehabilitation, and building impact-driven organisations.

Key Topics Covered

• Sarah Daniel’s transition from the NHS to founding MOTIONrehab
• Neurological rehabilitation and the science of neuroplasticity
• Why intensive and repetitive therapy drives recovery after brain injury
• The use of robotics and technology in modern rehabilitation
• Improving patient engagement and outcomes through innovation
• Leadership lessons from building a disruptive healthcare business
• Challenges facing female entrepreneurs in healthcare
• Storytelling as a tool for growth, advocacy, and impact
• Keeping patient care at the core of healthcare innovation

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to Motion Rehab and Its Impact
• 02:18 – The Role of Technology in Rehabilitation
• 06:51 – Transitioning from NHS to Private Sector
• 10:45 – The Journey of Integrating Robotics in Therapy
• 14:51 – Success Stories and Patient Outcomes
• 18:03 – Recognition and Changes in National Guidelines
• 22:37 – Challenges and Lessons Learned in Business
• 29:32 – Future Aspirations and Growth of MOTIONrehab
• 33:05 – Personal Reflections and Achievements

Connect with Sarah Daniel

• LinkedIn
• MOTIONrehab Website

Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

• Gill Hunter on Square One Law
• Square One Law
• ‘Fear Less, Do More’ Podcast

Recommended Episodes

• If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio 🦩
https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email [email protected] with the subject 'PODCAST’.

In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, host Gill Hunter sits down with Di Gates, founder of Connection Heroes, to explore the importance of human connection in the workplace and why it has never been more critical for team engagement, collaboration, and employee wellbeing.

Drawing on her journey as an entrepreneur, athlete, and leadership expert, Di shares how her early life and sporting experiences shaped her understanding of trust, teamwork, and effective leadership.

Gill and Di also discuss how organisations can rebuild connection in hybrid and remote teams, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on workplace culture, and why companies need to prioritise employee engagement and wellbeing to drive sustainable performance.

Backed by neuroscience and practical strategies, this episode provides actionable insights for leaders, HR professionals, and business owners who want to create connected, high-performing teams in the modern workplace.

Whether you’re interested in leadership development, workplace culture, team collaboration, employee engagement, hybrid work strategies, or the future of work, this episode is packed with insights on putting human connection at the heart of organisational success.

Key Topics Covered

• Di Gates’ entrepreneurial journey and the founding of Connection Heroes
• How sporting experiences and early life shaped collaboration and teamwork
• Why human connection boosts team performance and employee engagement
• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on workplace dynamics and leadership
• Building trust, vulnerability, and psychological safety in teams
• Strategies for creating meaningful connection in hybrid and remote work environments
• The role of neuroscience in understanding team dynamics and human behaviour
• Innovative training methods that drive lasting behavioural change
• Prioritising employee wellbeing and engagement for long-term success
• The future of work and intentional leadership practices to foster connection

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to Connection Heroes and Human Connection
• 03:03 – The Journey of an Entrepreneur: Di Gates' Story
• 05:54 – Influences and Inspirations: The Role of Family and Role Models
• 09:00 – The Impact of Early Experiences on Business Mindset
• 11:57 – Transitioning from Agency to Collaboration: The Birth of Stick Theory
• 15:09 – Adapting to Change: The Shift During the Pandemic
• 17:47 – Building Trust and Connection in Remote Teams
• 21:07 – Developing a Scalable Product for Connection Heroes
• 24:14 – Connection Heroes vs. Villains
• 29:04 – The Importance of Human Connection
• 35:08 – Navigating Hybrid Work Environments
• 41:59 – The Science Behind Connection
• 46:37 – Fearlessness in Business and Life

Connect with Di Gates

• LinkedIn
• Connection Heroes Website

Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

• Gill Hunter on Square One Law
• Square One Law
• ‘Fear Less, Do More’ Podcast

Recommended Episodes

• If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

How can lived experience and business leadership come together to tackle homelessness?

In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, host Gill Hunter sits down with Bianca Robinson, CEO of CEO Sleepout, and Kerri Douglas, their lived experience ambassador, to unpack the realities of homelessness and the powerful role empathy, leadership, and storytelling play in driving change.

Whether you’re seeking insights into homelessness, social impact leadership, lived experience advocacy, corporate responsibility, or community-driven change, this episode offers a compelling look at how individual actions and systemic reform can work hand in hand to create a more compassionate future.

Key Topics Covered

• The realities and misconceptions of homelessness, especially for women
• CEO Sleepout’s mission and experiential approach to raising awareness and funds
• Why lived experience is essential to understanding homelessness
• The role of empathy and personal storytelling in driving change
• How businesses and SMEs can make a tangible social impact
• Integrity, transparency, and trust in the charity sector
• The emotional toll of advocacy and the importance of self-care
• Humanising homelessness through connection and compassion
• The need for systemic policy change
• How everyday kindness can make a real difference

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to CEO Sleep Out and Its Mission
• 01:29 – Understanding Homelessness: Myths and Realities
• 04:13 – Kerri's Journey: From Homelessness to Advocacy
• 08:50 – The Impact of Lived Experience on Perceptions of Homelessness
• 12:23 – The CEO Sleepout Experience: A Night Under the Stars
• 15:56 – Creating Compassion: The Ripple Effect of Awareness
• 19:50 – Advocacy and Policy Change: A Call to Action
• 21:35 – Empowering Voices: The Role of Lived Experience in Policy Making
• 22:25 – From Marketing to Charity: A Journey of Purpose
• 29:05 – Building a Community: The Impact of CEO Sleepout
• 31:41 – Creating Change: The Power of SMEs in Society
• 33:51 – Kerri's Advice to Rough Sleepers
• 36:34 – How Do Kerri & Bianca 'Switch Off'?
• 38:13 – A Call to Action: Engaging Business Leaders for Social Good
• 38:27 – Every Act Counts: Personal Responsibility in Supporting the Homeless

Helpful Links & Resources

• Centrepoint – UK's leading youth homelessness charity
• Depaul UK – Youth homeless charity providing emergency accommodation and shelter
• Childline – Counselling for children and young people under 19, 24/7, 0800 1111
• CEO Sleepout Website
• Read Kerri’s Book – Gutter to Glory: ‘Pavements to Parliament’

Connect with Guests

• Kerri Douglas on LinkedIn
• Bianca Robinson on LinkedIn

Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

• Gill Hunter on Square One Law
• Square One Law
• ‘Fear Less, Do More’ Podcast

Recommended Episodes

• If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio 🦩
https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email [email protected] with the subject 'PODCAST’.

How does a whisky distillery bring 1,400 years of Anglo-Saxon history back to life?

In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, host Gill Hunter sits down with Dr. Chris Ferguson, Museum & Experience Director at Ad Gefrin — a groundbreaking cultural destination in Northumberland that blends an Anglo-Saxon museum, world-class whisky distillery, and community-led storytelling hub.

Discover how Ad Gefrin is reshaping what we know about Northumbrian history, uncovering the hidden role of women in Anglo-Saxon society, and revitalising a region through architecture inspired by ancient traditions, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and a passionate family business.

Whether you’re searching for insights on Anglo-Saxon history, whisky making, Northumberland tourism, heritage storytelling, or community engagement, this episode offers a powerful look at how the past can inspire a bold, creative future.

• Ad Gefrin: the fusion of Anglo-Saxon history and modern whisky distilling

• The overlooked stories of women in early medieval history

• How a family brought a cultural landmark to life

• Architecture inspired by Northumbrian heritage

• Why storytelling is essential to uncovering hidden histories

• Community engagement & seasonal traditions

• Sustainability and long-term impact in a family-run business

• 00:00 – Introduction to Ad Gefrin and Its Significance

• 07:09 – Uncovering the Role of Women in Anglo-Saxon History

• 12:00 – The Journey of Building Ad Gefrin

• 18:02 – Creating a Community and Cultural Hub

• 18:31 – Proudest Moment So Far

• 21:44 – What Is Whisky?

• 23:28 – About Corenkyn & Corengyst

• 27:48 – The Christmas Goats

• 30:09 – Future Aspirations and Hidden Histories

• Ad Gefrin Website

• Chris Ferguson on LinkedIn

• Gill Hunter on Square One Law

• Square One Law

• ‘Fear Less, Do More’ Podcast

• If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio 🦩
https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email [email protected] with the subject 'PODCAST’.

The fight for LGBTQ+ equality has come a long way — but the next chapter will demand more unity, visibility, and allyship than ever before.

In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, Peter Darrant, long-time LGBTQ+ activist and broadcaster, reveals how the community’s past battles — from Section 28 to modern media representation — are shaping the future of equality in the UK.

Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or someone passionate about representation and equality, this is a powerful conversation about the future of LGBTQ+ rights in the UK.

Key Topics Covered

• What it was really like growing up and coming out under Section 28
• How LGBTQ+ rights have evolved — and the new challenges ahead
• Why allies are essential to progress (and how to keep them engaged)
• The changing face of LGBTQ+ representation in media
• Why community spaces matter and how they protect identity & wellbeing
• The power of self-reflection and personal growth in activism
• Overcoming fear of failure to build better movements
• How history shapes today’s LGBTQ+ culture and politics
• Strengthening unity to push back against division and discrimination
• What the LGBTQ+ community must prepare for in the coming decade

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to Peter Darrant and Pride World Media
• 00:44 – Reflections on Community and Allies
• 01:34 – The Evolution of Queer Activism
• 03:26 – Historical Context of LGBTQ+ Rights
• 05:47 – Concerns for the Future of the Queer Community
• 07:51 – The Impact of Social Media on Activism
• 10:58 – The Role of Allies in the LGBTQ+ Movement
• 12:33 – The Importance of Local Government Support
• 13:25 – Peter's Journey in Media and Performance
• 17:59 – Bridging the Gap Between Education and Real-World Experience
• 21:34 – The Art of Conversation
• 22:52 – Building Pride: A Journey of Growth
• 28:38 – Creating Safe Spaces: The Pride Media Center
• 30:01 – Outnorth East: Expanding Community Engagement
• 33:16 – Embracing Change: The Power of Serendipity
• 36:19 – Fearlessness and Self-Reflection
• 39:48 – The Legacy of Activism and Community
• 43:24 – Reflections on Youth and Future Aspirations

Helpful Links & Resources

• Pride World Media Website
• Pride Media Centre Website
• Out North East Website
• Safer to Be Me Website
• Pride Radio Newcastle

Connect with Peter Darrant

• LinkedIn

Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

• Gill Hunter on Square One Law
• Square One Law
• ‘Fear Less, Do More’ Podcast

Recommended Episodes

• If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio 🦩
https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email [email protected] with the subject 'PODCAST’.

Heat pumps are coming faster than the UK is prepared for — and most homeowners don’t know why.

In this episode of Fear Less, Do More, Amy Mooney, founder of Mutha Cuva, reveals how clean home heating will replace gas boilers — and the massive skills gap slowing down the UK’s net-zero goals.

Whether you’re a homeowner, climate-tech innovator, or future-focused leader, this is a conversation about the future of energy in UK homes.

Key Topics Covered

• Gas boiler ban timelines & misconceptions
• How heat pumps actually work (and why they’re more efficient)
• Smart tech improving home energy
• Building a purpose-led company in a male-dominated industry
• The urgent need for diversity in the heating workforce

Key Takeaways

• Climate change concerns sparked Amy’s journey into the clean-heat sector
• Mutha Cuva provides essential aftercare and support for heat pump owners
• Transitioning from gas to renewable home energy is vital for future UK homes
• Heat pumps can outperform traditional gas boilers in efficiency and sustainability
• The UK heating industry faces a major skills gap slowing energy transition progress
• A more diverse and inclusive workforce is key to innovation and resilience
• Amy’s personal experiences drive her commitment to clean energy and customer care
• Fear can fuel entrepreneurial risk-taking and positive change
• Technology is improving service delivery and heat-pump reliability
• Raising finance requires strategic planning, clarity, and strong networks

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to Mutha Cuva and Climate Concerns
• 02:57 – The Birth of Mutha Cuva: Addressing Clean Heat Transition
• 06:00 – The Journey of a Marketer to Entrepreneur
• 08:50 – Understanding Heat Pumps and the Gas Boiler Ban
• 12:11 – The Future of Heating: Benefits of Heat Pumps
• 14:26 – The Benefits of a Heat Pump Over a Gas Boiler
• 16:26 – Navigating the Challenges of a Male-Dominated Industry
• 17:45 – The Role of Technology in Heating Solutions
• 19:08 – Balancing Family and Business
• 22:29 – Embracing Fear and Taking Risks
• 26:59 – Raising Finance and Building a Business
• 29:21 – Diversity in the Sector
• 32:32 – Favourite Areas of the Job
• 34:14 – Conclusion and Future Aspirations

Connect with Amy Mooney

• LinkedIn
• Mutha Cuva Website

Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

• Gill Hunter on Square One Law
• Square One Law
• ‘Fear Less, Do More’ Podcast

Recommended Episodes

• If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio 🦩
https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email [email protected] with the subject 'PODCAST’.

Welcome to a brand new season of Fear Less, Do More.

In this episode, host Gill Hunter sits down with fashion designer Corey Dixon, the creative mind behind Somebody Else’s Guy — a bold, upcycled, gender-neutral fashion label rooted in authenticity and North East identity.

From navigating profound personal loss to building a brand that challenges the wastefulness of fast fashion, Corey shares the pivotal moments that shaped her journey.

She reveals how her background in theatre influences her design aesthetic, why she refuses to compromise on sustainability, and how unexpected celebrity collaborations have helped propel her work into the spotlight.

Corey also opens up about what fearlessness means to her, how she stays grounded in the North East, and her ambition to stage a major catwalk event that showcases the region’s creative talent.

Key Takeaways

• Personal loss sparked Corey’s determination to build Somebody Else’s Guy
• The brand champions upcycled, gender-neutral, sustainable fashion
• Theatre training influences her dramatic and character-driven designs
• Fearlessness comes from understanding how brief life can be
• Celebrity collaborations have accelerated brand recognition
• Sourcing vintage materials is challenging but central to her ethos
• Corey is committed to challenging the fast fashion industry
• The North East remains a vital part of her creative identity
• Authenticity is what connects her most deeply with her audience
• Future goals include launching a large-scale North East catwalk event

Connect with Corey Dixon

• LinkedIn
• Somebody Else’s Guy Website
• Instagram

Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

• Gill Hunter on Square One Law
• Square One Law
• ‘Fear Less, Do More’ Podcast

Recommended Episodes

• If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio 🦩
https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email [email protected] with the subject 'PODCAST’.

In Season 5’s final episode of ‘Fear Less, Do More’, host Gill Hunter has an uplifting and inspiring conversation with Catrina McHugh MBE, Co-Founder of Open Clasp Theatre Company, a feminist theatre company based in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Catrina shares her story from activism to theatre, and highlights the transformative power of art for social change. She also emphasises the importance of collaboration, storytelling and empathy in creating change, while also reflecting on the challenges and hopes for the future of social justice and prison reform.

Highlights include:

• Catrina’s background and her journey into theatre and activism.

• A look back at her time spent at Greenham Common and her involvement in the miners strike.

• The work of Open Clasp Theatre Company, a feminist theatre company focused on the power and value of arts for social change.

• How Open Clasp Theatre gives voices to marginalised communities, including women in prison.

• Catrina’s perspective on the role of the arts and theatre in addressing social issues and driving change.

• Her work on government advisory panels and the importance of having a seat at the table as an advocate for change.

• Catrina’s involvement in her band, ‘The Camp Vamps’, and how she uses this as a source of joy.

  
  

Connect with Catrina McHugh MBE on LinkedIn

https://uk.linkedin.com/in/catrina-mchugh-mbe-0962831a

Find out more about Open Clasp Theatre Company

https://www.openclasp.org.uk/

Find out more about your host Gill Hunter

https://squareonelaw.com/people/gill-hunter/

Find out more about Square One Law

https://squareonelaw.com/

Find out more about ‘Fear Less, Do More’

https://squareonelaw.com/insights/fear-less-do-more/

If you liked this episode, you may also enjoy this one

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6V3alWkPneVYKcn9q8SVGH?si=J9rvgXyPRzOhPWfZJpRFkw

This podcast was produced and recorded at Flamingo Heights Podcast Studio🦩

https://www.flamingoheights.co.uk/

For any enquiries or feedback regarding this podcast, email us at ⁠[email protected]⁠ with the subject 'PODCAST’.