On this episode of the Being Human Podcast, we’re joined by Andy Pope.

Andy is a technology, business, and school sport leader with a background spanning sport development, software, and operations, alongside a long-standing passion for health and active lifestyles. As a Director at Seamless Software, he brings a practical, client-first mindset to building scalable digital solutions and engagement platforms that prioritise user experience, efficiency, reliability, and real human impact.

Andy has spent many years actively involved in sport, health, and wellbeing and as a result he has seen first-hand the importance of leadership, discipline, resilience, and adaptability, and how movement, teamwork, and high-energy environments help develop clear thinking and effective problem-solving under pressure.

These experiences have deeply shaped Andy’s approach to work - encouraging agility, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement - equally driven by a desire to keep people and communities active.

Whether in sport or software, Andy believes that measured impact, smart systems, and adaptability are essential for long-term success, and form the very foundations of Being Human in an increasingly digital world.

Support the show

Hosted by Nick Mennell, Being Human goes beyond titles and success stories to uncover what really drives the people behind the progress, across fitness, business, education and beyond.

Expect real conversations, powerful insights, and practical takeaways from leaders who lead with heart.

Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this journey into what it truly means to lead, grow and be human.

This series is supported by NationMedia and produced by Sieve Studio.

Brought to you by Pocket Rocket Group

From Village Dreams to FA Cup Glory

In this episode, we sit fireside with Jamie Barker, Histon FC veteran, Founder-Director of the not-for-profit Ferdinand Collective, and a founding SHOT Star Ambassador.

Jamie reflects on his lifelong journey in football, including that unforgettable FA Cup moment 17 years ago, when Histon stunned Leeds United 1–0 and the village club was thrust into the national spotlight.

He also shares his dedication to nurturing the next generation of players, the importance of community, and the camaraderie and commitment that the game inspires.

Guided by “The Power in the Player,” Jamie’s coaching team at CWS Ferdinand Collective provides a complete pathway for all ages - from Sparks (toddlers) to Hubs (developing players) and Hubs+ (academy-ready).

In the 2024-25 season alone, they coached over 1,000 players, from first-timers to Cambridge University and Women’s Teams. This ecosystem is powered by SHOT Clubhouse, a single digital platform connecting every player, coach, and parent, offering AI-powered coaching, fixtures and feedback, player development profiles, and access to sport news and streetwear.

This is a conversation about connection, passion, and the power of the beautiful game. ⚽🔥🎙️

⚽ Learn more at shotclubhouse.com and Ferdinand Collective

📺 Watch Histon FC’s journey here

🎞️ Relive the iconic Histon vs Leeds United FA Cup match here 

Massive thanks to Sieve Studio for the production of this podcast and WellNation for the media support.

Enjoy 🚀

Support the show

Hosted by Nick Mennell, Being Human goes beyond titles and success stories to uncover what really drives the people behind the progress, across fitness, business, education and beyond.

Expect real conversations, powerful insights, and practical takeaways from leaders who lead with heart.

Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this journey into what it truly means to lead, grow and be human.

This series is supported by NationMedia and produced by Sieve Studio.

Brought to you by Pocket Rocket Group

In episode 4 of Being Human, our host Nick Mennell sits down with none other than Dr. Paul Bedford - known to many as @RetentionGuru,  for a conversation that goes far beyond business.

From deeply personal childhood experiences to the core values that shaped his career, Paul speaks with honesty and in depth about what truly matters in life and leadership. He also shares his vision for the future of education and mentorship, and why human connection remains at the heart of progress.

This fireside chat is candid, reflective, and packed with insights - a rare opportunity to hear the human side of a thought leader in the fitness industry who has spent decades helping others thrive.

Don’t miss Paul’s perspective on resilience, values, and the next chapter of mentorship.

Let’s dive in.

Special thanks to Sieve Studio for the video and podcast production and WellNation from NationMedia for the media support.

#BeingHuman #Leadership #Mentorship #Education #Podcast

Support the show

Hosted by Nick Mennell, Being Human goes beyond titles and success stories to uncover what really drives the people behind the progress, across fitness, business, education and beyond.

Expect real conversations, powerful insights, and practical takeaways from leaders who lead with heart.

Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this journey into what it truly means to lead, grow and be human.

This series is supported by NationMedia and produced by Sieve Studio.

Brought to you by Pocket Rocket Group

In this episode 3 of our Being Human fireside chat, host Nick Mennell sits down with someone who’s not just a global transformation leader - but also his brother.

Simon Mennell’s career journey has taken him from Nestlé logistics to global HR leadership roles across Singapore, Dubai, and beyond. From navigating personal loss and geopolitical shocks like 9/11, to leading major restructures during the financial crisis, Simon’s story is one of resilience, empathy, and unwavering integrity.

He opens up about the lessons that shaped him, from the importance of trust and succession planning, to the moment his son reminded him that family must come before ambition. He also shares how his son's autism transformed the way he communicates and leads, adding depth to his already human-centered approach to leadership.

Now an HR consultant, mentor, and writer, Simon is working on everything from memoirs to sci-fi - but his core mission remains: to lead with heart, and help others do the same.

This conversation is raw, real, and rich with wisdom, including Simon’s ultimate advice for leaders:

 "Listen and communicate."

Let’s dive in.

Thanks to Sieve Studio for the video and podcast production and WellNation from NationMedia for the media support. 

Author Simon Mennell has several books now available to buy on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/SHATTERED-NORMS-PUNKS-JOURNEY-BOARDROOM/dp/B0F1DSQ221

https://www.amazon.co.uk/We-Almost-Had-Forever-Distance/dp/1068455470

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dream-Agent-Intergalactic-Awakening-Warriors/dp/106845542X

Support the show

Hosted by Nick Mennell, Being Human goes beyond titles and success stories to uncover what really drives the people behind the progress, across fitness, business, education and beyond.

Expect real conversations, powerful insights, and practical takeaways from leaders who lead with heart.

Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this journey into what it truly means to lead, grow and be human.

This series is supported by NationMedia and produced by Sieve Studio.

Brought to you by Pocket Rocket Group

Behind every brand, business or breakthrough…there’s a human story.

We’re proud to launch our new fireside chat series: Being Human - an honest, inspiring dive into the values, mindset and moments that shape people in leadership, life and personal growth.

Hosted by Nick Mennell, Being Human goes beyond titles and success stories to uncover what really drives the people behind the progress, across fitness, business, education and beyond.

Expect real conversations, powerful insights, and practical takeaways from leaders who lead with heart.

Episode 2 is now live, featuring the brilliant Tom Higgins, sharing personal stories, lessons and entrepreneurial advice for anyone starting or looking to start their own business. 

Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this journey into what it truly means to lead, grow and be human.

This series is supported by NationMedia and produced by Sieve Studio. 
 

Brought to you by Pocket Rocket Group

Support the show

Support the show

Hosted by Nick Mennell, Being Human goes beyond titles and success stories to uncover what really drives the people behind the progress, across fitness, business, education and beyond.

Expect real conversations, powerful insights, and practical takeaways from leaders who lead with heart.

Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this journey into what it truly means to lead, grow and be human.

This series is supported by NationMedia and produced by Sieve Studio.

Brought to you by Pocket Rocket Group

In this episode of Being Human, we sit down with Steve Wright, a health and fitness industry veteran, whose journey from childhood experiences to a distinguished career has been shaped by resilience, discipline, and a unique approach to leadership.

Steve shares how early lessons in resilience and work ethic laid the foundation for his success, and how his time in the military influenced his philosophy of “silent mentoring” - a leadership style built on example, integrity, and quiet guidance rather than loud direction.

From navigating challenges to empowering others, Steve’s insights reveal what it truly means to lead with humility, strength, and humanity.

Hosted by Nick Mennell, Being Human goes beyond titles and success stories to uncover what really drives the people behind the progress, across fitness, business, education and beyond.

💬 Expect real conversations, powerful insights, and practical takeaways from leaders who lead with heart.

🎧 Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this journey into what it truly means to lead, grow and be human.

This series is supported by NationMedia and produced by Sieve Studio. ♥️ 

Brought to you by Pocket Rocket Group

Support the show

Hosted by Nick Mennell, Being Human goes beyond titles and success stories to uncover what really drives the people behind the progress, across fitness, business, education and beyond.

Expect real conversations, powerful insights, and practical takeaways from leaders who lead with heart.

Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this journey into what it truly means to lead, grow and be human.

This series is supported by NationMedia and produced by Sieve Studio.

Brought to you by Pocket Rocket Group