On today’s episode, we have the pleasure of exploring resilience and mindfulness with our special guest, Karim Rushdy. Our conversation centres around his inspiring journey of transformation through challenges, including years of chronic back pain and a significant financial loss. We talk about the profound impact of cultivating a beginner’s mindset, re-framing life’s obstacles and achieving excellence through the practice of mindfulness has had on his life.

Karim is a mindfulness teacher, facilitator, and strategy advisor with extensive experience in Asia and the UK. After leaving university in England, he studied Mandarin in Shanghai and joined a restaurant start-up, which grew significantly before succumbing to the impacts of COVID-19 - a humbling lesson in resilience. He later earned an MBA from a leading Chinese business school and became Managing Director at a pan-Asian think tank, overseeing projects on business, policy and sustainability whilst leading leadership programs across 15 countries.

In 2013, meditation helped Karim overcome his chronic back pain, inspiring a shift in his perspective. Now, he teaches mindfulness to elite athletes, corporate leaders, and teams with Mindful Peak Performance (MPP), and serves as a Trustee at Breathworks, a mindfulness charity focused on managing pain and illness.

Karim’s insights on harmonising personal and professional growth, emphasising gratitude, service and authentic connections as cornerstones of a fulfilling life are powerful lessons. Tune in to uncover how mindfulness and a growth mindset can empower you to turn adversity into opportunities for growth and success. 

In this episode:

00:15:48 - 'No Mud, No Lotus' & ‘The Beginner's Mindset’ – theories behind the Buddhist metaphors, linking personal growth to overcoming adversities, and the significance of maintaining a beginner's mindset for continued success.

00:27:33 - Coaching & the growth mindset - the benefits of working with coaches to access growth zones and how mindfulness contributes to personal development and 'getting out of your own way.'

00:39:05 - Overcoming back pain - Karim recounts his struggle with debilitating back pain and depression, leading to a transformative journey involving mindfulness and meditation practices.

00:53:21 - The Four Buckets approach - Karim's framework for a balanced life.

01:09:42 - Resilience, financial loss & reflective gratitude - emphasising the role of gratitude and mindfulness in maintaining resilience and a positive outlook despite significant setbacks.

Connect with Karim here:

www.karim-rushdy.com

www.mindfulpeakperformance.com

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

WARNING: This episode contains strong language and discussions of sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. These discussions may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to seek help. You can reach out to the Samaritans on 116 123 or https://samaritans.org/. Please listen with care and prioritise your wellbeing. 

Dave is a former Royal Marines Commando turned successful business owner, public speaker and advocate for mental health. Today we hear his remarkable story of determination to succeed in the military, overcoming his stammer and the grueling stories from the front lines.

Having joined the Marines aged only 16 and passing the Elite Commando training first time - all whilst suffering with a debilitating stammer - David knows first-hand about persistence. At 18 he was deployed to Afghanistan but sustained critical injuries from a grenade attack causing injuries to his neck, body and legs. Refusing to accept that the fight was over for him, he was re-deployed back to the front line only a month later to re-join his troop.

Having experienced so much at such a young age, David’s mental health suffered and following a suicide attempt, he was diagnosed with severe anxiety, depression and PTSD. 

Dave's story is a moving masterclass in perseverance. He also shares his leap into business with Civvy 2 Commando - transforming military lessons into corporate energy. This episode is packed with moving insights on resilience, the importance of a supportive community and embracing transitions for growth – no matter what life throws at you.

In this episode:

00:00 How it all started – How David’s stammer led to childhood anxiety and an extreme fear of speaking.

15:12 Elite Commando training – David’s fast-track through the ranks and adjustment to front-line life - enduring extreme heat with limited water, rations and constant vigilance.

28:57 Surviving a near-fatal explosion and the psychological strain during rehab.

43:57 Transitioning from combat life to civvy life - aggression, medical issues, poor mental health and attempted suicide at just 19 years old.

51:15 Sharing his experience – how talking openly about his experiences is helping others, breaking down preconceived notions of mental health and life after the forces.

01:06:46 Overcoming self-doubt through hard work and bravery, both personally and professionally. How David used public speaking to control his stammer.

01:15:22 Reflecting on how enhancing support in leadership can improve resilience and performance.

Connect with Dave here:

Website: www.civvy2commando.com

Instagram: @civvy2commando

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-coleman-654a51296/

Youtube: @civvy2commando417

TikTok: @civvy2commando

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

In today's episode we talk in depth with ESports coach, Caleb Cousens. With 13 years of experience as an organisational leader, Caleb has built a team of world-class coaches dedicated to enhancing the skills of professional gamers and Esports athletes worldwide. 

Transforming team dynamics, fighting burnout and creating supportive, high-performance environments are just some of the innovations and techniques developed by Caleb and his team to address the unique challenges that come with professional gaming. Under his leadership, Caleb continues to make a significant impact in this dynamic and rapidly evolving industry, and today he shares how his pioneering efforts - rooted in adaptability, mental resilience, and community - are shaping the future of Esports. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the lives of professional gamers and the new coaching methods being born from the industry, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. 

In this episode:

12:45 - Burnout and emotional Stress - Exploring the prevalence of burnout culture in Esports, particularly in China and South Korea and its emotional toll on players.

23:10 - Identity beyond gaming – With short career spans and success at a young age for most, how does Esports cater to the development of players' identities beyond gaming.

34:25 - Successful team dynamics - Examining the shift needed in Esports from individual competitiveness to fostering team dynamics, including Caleb's success with the New York Subliners.

48:15 - Coach development in Esports - Innovative approaches for coach development in Esports and how this contrasts with traditional coaching practice.

Connect with Caleb here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebcousens/

https://www.adamasesports.gg/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/adamasesports/?originalSubdomain=ca

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

In today's episode we dive deep into the world of high-pressure careers with our special guest, Mike Haynes. Affectionately known as "the king of Kent", Mike is a former oil market broker who now coaches other brokers on improving their performance and finding resilience within this challenging industry. He shares the ups and downs of his career and his transition out of broking to follow his passion in rugby coaching, and founding his own business as a professional business coach.

Throughout the conversation, we explore the pressure of the brokerage industry, the importance of resilience, and the value of purpose-driven career changes. Mike's insight into handling daily stress, avoiding burnout, and maintaining a balanced life offers valuable lessons for anyone facing challenging environments. We also discuss the necessity of physical fitness, mental resilience, and establishing a clear purpose to fuel long-term success and fulfilment.

Join us as we uncover how Mike leverages his experience to help others thrive in competitive fields and how he finds meaning in his role. Whether you're navigating a high-stress job or seeking motivation to bounce back from setbacks, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice. 

In this episode:

04:18 The importance of resilience within high-pressure environments.

15:55 Mikes transition to rugby coaching after his career in brokerage.

17:43 Why different environments suit different individuals' values.

21:20 Brokers are seeking coaching for financial improvement and work-life balance goals.

28:53 Taking a pause between stimulus and action allows choice.

29:46 Self-reflection on business performance is essential if you have improvement goals.

51:27 What do you want to get better at? An important coaching question.

53:49 Understanding that self-care boosts physical and mental resilience.

Connect with Mike here:

Instagram: @Mikehaynes74

Email: [email protected]

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

In today's episode, we are joined by former BRIT School Deputy Head - turned Entrepreneur and Founder of The Creativity Clinic, Kirsty Hunter. Kirsty’s mission is huge – to destroy social and financial barriers to the arts and education, and to disrupt co-working and leisure spaces through the integration of the arts. Her aim is to provide a much-needed resource whilst creating meaningful and inclusive communities that offer an inter-generational approach to work, leisure and play.

Kirsty is currently on the journey to raise investment for her venture and in September 2022 she launched the outpatient’s arm of The Creativity Clinic; a firm designed to support educationalists, artists and corporates with creative approaches to strategic advantage, operations management, innovation and entrepreneurship through inclusive cultures and community led approaches. 

Our interview delves deep into the roots of Kirsty’s career with some of the world’s most recognised creative organisations, including her formative years at The BRIT School that have shaped her ideas around community, resilience, and the desire for a new approach to leisure and culture for all generations - including her innovative concept, the ‘15-min neighbourhoods’.

In this episode:

08:46 Why passion and connections are crucial, especially for students in the performing arts.

18:33 The Brit School ethos – why it’s a success and how the environment shapes its students.

22:01 Embracing tech and new ways of learning – how phone use in school can work with foundations of respect and responsibility.

27:10 Kirsty’s focus on community work, talent sharing, and its emotional impact on students.

46:48 The importance of social connections on mental health and performance.

54:42 Focus on community and connectivity – how social responsibility and coworking spaces are bridging the gap. 

01:00:10 Kirsty’s response to the demand for creative niche experiences despite funding challenges.

Connect with Kirsty here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecreativityclinicuk

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstyhunterthecreativityclinic/

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

 
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

In today's episode we are joined by Birmingham-based Olympic rugby player and former GB bobsledder, Heather Fisher. Heather is an accomplished elite athlete, motivational speaker, LGBT advocate and media personality with her own BBC radio podcast.

After a difficult start in life, Heather quickly found she excelled in the sports arena. Breaking her back in four places in her late 20s left her in a back brace for 18 months and triggered alopecia which impacted her self-confidence and self-perception. Never to be held down, she learnt to crawl, walk and finally run again before returning to international sport and was quickly back at the top of her game. Rugby highlights include competing in five Rugby World Cups and winning in 2014, winning four Six Nations, medalling at the Commonwealth Games and representing Team GB in the Olympic Games Rio 2016. 

Since retiring as an athlete, she has become an accomplished motivational speaker, MC and event host and has taken on a number of TV and radio opportunities. Building on her stint on Celebrity SAS Who Dares Wins, she became a celebrity warrior on BBC survival show Go Hard or Go Home. Heather also does extensive charity work raising money for young people with autism and for those with alopecia.

Heather's story is one of determination, personal growth, and the pursuit of creating positive impact. Get ready for an enlightening and inspiring discussion on life behind the scenes in  elite sports, career transitions, authenticity, and finding one's true purpose in life. Tune in for an episode filled with valuable insights and wisdom from Heather!

In this episode:

00:00 Heather’s struggle with identity, on and off the pitch.

13:16 Life after rugby – how Heather’s fear of rejection and judgement lead to a dangerous lack of motivation.

43:55 Seeking reasons and explanations – why we need to care more about individuals and less about labels.

49:44 Personal growth – what Heather’s decision to prioritise clarity of her situation over people pleasing taught her about the importance of individualised support.

01:02:57 Taking opportunities - Heather’s brave step into an exciting venture with international electric scooter racing.

01:04:39 The bigger picture - embracing her charity and endeavouring towards a new, more informed and inclusive world.

01:09:58 Life lessons - the importance of giving time and space for working through issues and allowing your authentic self to develop.

Connect with Heather here:

Website: http://heatherfisher.co.uk/

Instagram: @heatherfish29

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

“Play is more than an activity; it is a feeling.” 

In today's episode we are joined by special guests Adam Lusby and Dr Maarten Koeners. Both experts and advocates of the transformative power of play, the conversation illustrates how playfulness can be used to create ‘prosocial environments’, be that in classrooms, competitive sports or the workplace. We discuss the crucial link between play and social connection, the transformative effects of incorporating play into educational and professional settings, and the importance of embracing a playful approach for resilience and engagement. 

Adam has spent the past decade dedicated to exploring the intersections of innovation, technology, and the idea of a regenerative circular economy. He enjoys creating engaging workshops that challenge participants to acquire and apply new knowledge through hands-on experiences. 

Maarten has a PhD in medical biology and is passionate about strengthening the link between learning and joy through integrating insights from design thinking and the neuroscience of play into learning experiences.

Join us as we uncover the science and practical applications of play, and learn how to infuse our lives with more joy, connection, and bouncebackability.

In this episode:

05:56 Play is essential for complex social connections in all mammals, especially humans.

06:57 Culture and interaction; social beings need genuine connections to avoid loneliness in non-social spaces.

18:54 How to make your space more social and playful, regardless of its challenges.

22:54 Why flexible, prosocial environments foster better resilience and improved creativity. 

37:49 Resistance to change will hold organisations back and dampen innovation.

57:19 How scheduling time for daydreaming may improve your productivity.

Connect with our guests here:

Dr Maarten Koeners

Adam Lusby

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Today we speak to former professional rugby player, Rich Bryan. Having experienced the highs and lows of professional rugby (including having Rusty as a teammate at Bath), Rich’s playing career was ended by a difficult knee injury at the age of 30, resulting in a challenging career change that would test his resilience and mental well-being.

In 2011 Rich joined the Rugby Players Association (RPA) - the representative body and trade union for current and former elite male and female rugby players in England, and for the past 10 years he has held the position of Player Welfare Director. As well as advising members on legal issues, he also leads numerous player welfare-related programmes across a broad range of issues including head injuries, agents, insurance and mental well-being support.   

Rich shares his journey with us, and the wisdom he has gained through setbacks faced during his career, which he now uses in his work to advise and support within the professional ruby world.

In this episode:

08:26 Struggles with identity, on and off the pitch.

41:15 Reflecting on the challenges that come with transitions from professional sports. 

47:24 Facing new experiences, and navigating uncertainty with teamwork.

58:27 Importance of leadership in creating a positive environment.

01:02:04 The importance of strong support and resilience during transition.

You can connect with Rich Bryan here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-bryan-5a759412

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Today we speak to Luke Doherty, Managing Director at Mindful Peak Performance. Having trained as an elite rugby player and capped for England under-18s, Luke’s passion for marrying elite performance and mindfulness has now developed into the wellness space with mind-blowing results. Achieving advanced-level mindfulness training qualifications from Breathworks and the Oxford University Mindfulness Centre, he’s since been dedicated to creating and delivering bespoke mindfulness programmes for some of the UK's leading athletes and forward-thinking executives. He’s also the creator of a unique youth support network, bringing together boxing and mindfulness to engage and ignite disadvantaged young people, the results of which have been phenomenal.

Join us as we explore how Luke is challenging the traditional contexts around mindfulness; the questions around qualitative data vs storytelling and the shift in organisations' readiness to adopt mindfulness due to its impact on productivity and team resilience.

In this episode:

04:30 Luke's journey - from training with Buddhists to delivering for execs in London. 

07:49 Questioning the classroom setting – how conformity and environment impact on young people’s behaviour.

13:46 Positive impact of mindfulness on emotional clarity, personal experience, and individualised approach to definition.

20:27 Mastering mindfulness - being aware of thoughts, not engaging in them and choosing perspective.

24:02 The mind-muscle - how training the mind through meditation builds mental resilience and enables a better response to stress.

27:57 Boxing mindfulness training for youth workers and coaches across different communities. Embracing diversity and maintaining a clear structure.

31:58 Getting good at deep work and its relevance to leadership and productivity. 

You can connect with Luke Doherty here:

linkedin.com/in/luke-doherty-mindful-peak-performance

mindfulpeakperformance.com 

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Today on the Bouncebackability Podcast we speak to 

James Rutter, Chief Creative Officer at a pioneering frozen food company COOK. James joined COOK in 2010 after 15 years as a financial journalist and editor. He now oversees internal and external branding and communications across the organisation. 

COOK is a founding UK B Corp, committed to using its business as a force for good in society and has been ranked in the ‘Top 100 Best Companies To Work For’ every year since 2013.

Today’s episode explores how they have earned that accolade by shining a light on the significance of community resilience and the role businesses must play in contributing to the well-being of the communities they operate in. We discussed the virtuous cycle of businesses supporting resilient communities and the positive impact this has on both the business and the community.

In this episode:

04:58 Thriving shops build resilient, community-based economies.

08:31 Relationships are crucial for organisational success.

15:56 Four-day week boosts productivity and connections.

20:23 Empower elders in the evolving workplace environment.

44:01 Incredible stories of support and personal growth.

47:44 Encouraging radical transparency and openness at work.

51:25 Focusing on gatherings for more energy.

You can connect with James Rutter here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-rutter-8972079/

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/