The Good Listening To Show: Stories of Distinction & Genius

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Get ready to uncover the extensive insights of Carolina Klint, the Chief Commercial Officer at Marsh McLennan Europe, as she unpacks her global tour and the pressing risks impacting societal well-being and organizational resilience. 

Carolina gives us a front-row seat to her role in sharing the Global Risks Report created in collaboration with the World Economic Forum. Discover her innovative strategies for embedding resilience within businesses and hear about the serene natural spaces that inspire her leadership philosophy. From mountaintops to the vast sea, Carolina's reflections on interconnected risks provide a fresh perspective on navigating today's volatile world.

In this episode, Carolina opens up about the pivotal figures in her life, including her versatile mother,  her tenacious father, her mischievous dog Ebba and weaving in touching anecdotes about her family's milestones and the transformative lessons from her teenage son. 

As we navigate through her experiences, Carolina’s admiration for diverse cultural perspectives shines through, highlighting its importance in leading dynamic teams. Also, you'll be intrigued by her passion for cake and how it symbolizes resilience and adaptability in her life. From Mike Tyson’s agility philosophy to Carolina’s advice on embracing non-linear career paths, this conversation is brimming with wisdom and inspiration, perfect for anyone looking to navigate their professional journey with grace and guts.

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening! 

Send us Fan Mail

Imagine balancing a high-stakes career at Sony PlayStation with managing the rising stars of tomorrow. That's exactly what David Fallah does, and he joins us to share his remarkable journey. As a Technical Program Manager by day and a Talent Manager by night, David provides a fascinating look into both worlds. From delivering top-notch gaming experiences to nurturing talents like Araloyin Oshunremi from Netflix's "Top Boy," David's story is a testament to creativity, emotional intelligence, and the relentless pursuit of passion.

David takes us back to his early life in Sierra Leone, painting a vivid picture of the cultural values and discipline that shaped him. We hear about the harrowing experiences of the civil war, his family's brave escape to England, and the strong community spirit that welcomed them in Hackney. His reflections on his father's long career with P&O Ferries and the enduring virtues of hard work, respect, and honesty offer a profound perspective on resilience and determination.

We also dive into David's personal influences and treasured memories, from the legacy of Jamal Mason Blair to the inspiration drawn from his resilient immigrant mother. Whether it's lively debates at London's Speaker's Corner, scoring a goal in the FA Cup, or the joy of mentoring and teaching, David's storytelling immerses us in the significant landmarks and emotional events of his life. This episode celebrates the importance of cherishing every moment and the power of community, making it a must-listen for anyone navigating multiple passions and careers.

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening! 

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to a very special 'Legacy: Life Reflections' episode of The Good Listening To Show. Please welcome to The Clearing Louis Vause, who was 'Passed the Golden Baton' to be in the Show by none other than Charlie Higson.

"Louis Vause is a reminder of a different era, when Musicians lived exuberant near chaotic lives. They devoured all the music they encountered and then they let in re-emerge, coloured effortlessly with their own personality. 

Ivan Hewitt The Daily Telegraph, Review of Louis Vause's "Midnight in Havana"

Join us for a remarkable journey through the extraordinary creative life of Louis Vause, a multifaceted and highly versatile artist known for his extraordinary talents as a pianist, composer, teacher and writer. How does one overcome initial reluctance and fear to become a master of their craft? Louis shares his incredible story of transformation, from his early days with iconic figures like Mark Bedford and Terry Edwards, to the personal challenges he faced, including a liver transplant. Discover how saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities led to a thrilling and sometimes chaotic life filled with artistic achievement.

Louis has also very generously gifted one of his original Piano tracks from his brand new Album "Paris Sketches", written in tribute to both his daughter Melody & to his 'Clearing', sketching on the St Martin's Bridge close to  in the Cafe Paris "Demanche: Les Cloches de Paris"

Ever wondered what it’s like to grow up on a boat and in multiple flats across London and Edinburgh? Louis Vause recounts his uniquely adventurous upbringing and the whimsical yet grounding routines that shaped his chaotic but organized life. Hear about nostalgic memories from working at Lily White’s to profound moments at a Parisian café with his daughter Melody. Louis's tales of spontaneous adventures, like a cycling trip to Morocco at age 16, and inspirations from childhood readings of Enid Blyton, offer a vivid glimpse into the life of an eternal seeker of meaningful connections and experiences.

Delve into revolutionary teaching practices in music that challenge traditional methods, focusing on playing by ear and improvisation to nurture children's musicality. We explore Louis's reflections on his legacy, the therapeutic nature of music, and his desire to be remembered as a good father. Revel in the celebration of literary accomplishments, nostalgic performances, and quirky artistic obsessions that make Louis's story a heartfelt blend of admiration, resilience, and creative passion. Tune in for a captivating conversation filled with wisdom, humor, and inspiration.

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening! 

Send us Fan Mail

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening! 

Send us Fan Mail

Delighted to welcome Susy Roberts “The Good Listening To Show"  for a special ‘Leadership Reflections’ episode, also recorded as a LinkedIn LIVE.

https://vimeo.com/chrisgrimes/susyroberts

Hunter Roberts, with the ultra experienced Susy Roberts at the helm, are experts in leadership and people development, specialising in change agility. They focus on executive management coaching, organisation design, creating an excellent customer experience and team learning. In an approach that helps people and teams to realise full potential, achieve goals and enhance performance”

Susy is an acknowledged industry expert on developing talent and driving business performance through coaching. With Hunter Roberts, Susy has worked with senior leaders in globally recognised brands including Accenture Dior Dr. Martens plc Centrica Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Levi Strauss & Co. Specsavers O2 (Telefónica UK) The Peninsula Hotels, HSBC & many more.

Have you ever found pure joy and inspiration in the tales of life's unexpected journeys? Susy Roberts of Hunter Roberts joins me for a conversation that is as enlightening as it is heartwarming, sharing the serenity she finds in her Cotswolds cottage and the profound impact her career in coaching has had. Together, we embark on a nostalgic trip through our overlapping histories, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped Susy's path from her beginnings at the Oxford Group to the thriving success of her own company. She opens up about her decision to chase what she loves, a sentiment that echoes throughout our discussion on personal fulfillment and professional triumph.

Reflecting on her career trajectory, she offers up stories of overcoming the hurdles of the job market and the unexpected advantages of an Oxford connection. The episode is sprinkled with anecdotes of international adventures and the wisdom of embracing cultural diversity, from coaxing smiles out of Japanese hospitality workers to conducting training sessions across many a border. The narrative pays tribute to the mentors and role models who've sculpted her professional ethos, underscoring the importance of passion-driven choices in carving a successful career path.

As we close, the conversation turns to the enduring influence we impart through leadership and genuine connections. Susy imparts pearls of wisdom on the subtleties of team communication, sharing experiences that highlight the significance of understanding individual strengths and team dynamics. 

With her leadership baton passed to her daughter, we ponder the power of good listening and the introspective journey it can prompt, celebrating the stories and insights that come to light when we truly hear one another. Join us on this episode where the beauty of attentive listening unfolds, revealing the depth of personal insights and the legacy we create through leadership.

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening! 

Send us Fan Mail

Martin Clarkson is a charming and natural born storyteller with an extraordinary story to tell.  After being rejected just once too often for a career on the Stage, he kept his promise to his mother and applied to Marks & Spencer for a ‘proper job’,  before working there for almost half a century! From there, his story far from over, then continued as he went on to create a now 20 year old, world renowned company called ‘Storytellers’.  Now his passion for Storytelling continues with his newly formed enterprise, ‘Create Balance’. 

Create Balance is all about assisting businesses, whether creative or commercial, to respond imaginatively and appropriately to the challenges and opportunities offered by ‘current reality.’  Create Balance exists to make the most of the power of NOW, in an authentic and balanced way. 

For Martin Clarkson, reality exists in the power of Words. ‘Words to Follow’ might have been OK for ad-men pitching for business 50 years ago, but it is not OK for Martin Clarkson today!

He tells many a wonderful story, including the one about his grandfather telling him of a ‘bank’ that provided  £1440 free every single day. Any pounds not spent that day were lost. But another £1440 appeared again  next morning. Martin’s grandfather explained that the 1440 is actually a parable for the free 1440 minutes that are given to all of us every 24 hours. It is entirely up to us what we do with them. 

The words rang a bell with young Martin - as did the vision articulated by the person at M&S, who recruited him. ‘Why should performance be restricted to the theatre?’ he asked. He invited Martin to consider the 27 million shoppers, who visit Marks & Spencer ever day as his ‘audience’ and their 270 stores as his ‘stage’. 

Before his eyes were opened by these words, Martin saw the store as somewhere his mother went to buy knickers. An altogether unbalanced view! 

Now he understood Shakespeare’s words: “All the world’s a stage!”

On his various trips to New York to check the latest retail ideas on the floors of Manhattan, Martin always made time to take in a show at Radio City’s 8000 seat theatre. 4 shows a day, each just 75 minutes long, totally stimulating, totally inspirational!

Martin Clarkson my claim to have an ‘Honours Degree in Distraction’. The body of his life’s work demonstrates that he is able to reconcile the tensions of Brightness and Relevance. His Newco ‘Create Balance’ is an excellent manifestation of Martin’s latest bright relevant idea.

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening! 

Send us Fan Mail

Delighted to welcome fellow Comedy Improvisation Performer, Writer, Actress & regular "Comedy Store Player", Ruth Bratt to The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.

Ruth is the 1st 'new recruit' of "The Comedy Store Players" in the last 30 years of their close to 40 year history.  Ruth was 'Passed the Golden Baton' to be in the show by Comedy Store Player Co-Founder Neil Mullarkey, who recorded a "Good Listening To Show" LIVE with me at the Bath Theatre Royal a few months ago.

You can also Watch/Listen to Neil's LIVE episode here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5Ye4tXFI4k

Just before doing this interview, Ruth Bratt had very recently completed a mammoth 50 hour Improv Marathon (which she does at least once a year - which we talk about) followed by a glass or three afterwards to celebrate! 

She is also, rather profoundly,  a survivor of having had the extraordinary experience (last Summer) of an unexpected brain haemorrhage, whilst performing live on stage, with "Showstopper: The Musical", in Edinburgh.  This obviously took her months from which to recover - and delighted to say that Ruth is here in the Clearing , very much restored & the 'right way up', made of Sterling stuff indeed! She is a real trooper. A proven performer, who admits to being addicted to improv. A successful co-writer of TV comedy. An amateur potter, an occasional painter, a reliable person who prefers to push herself rather than feel cosy in any normal comfort zone. 

You can now find Ruth Bratt most Sundays at the Comedy Store, where as a recently signed up member, she is happy to be live and vulnerable. 

Ruth is proud to be a collaborator, who is inspired by the twinkle in another actor’s eyes. 

And to think, at Nottingham University she thought she fancied becoming a Human Rights Lawyer - until a drama tutor in a small college in North America almost randomly repositioned her career prospects!

Ruth would like to remembered simply as being both ‘fun and kind.’
On the basis of this interview, that is an odds-on certainty!

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening! 

Send us Fan Mail

Delighted to welcome Patrick Vasey, Laurel & Hardy life-long Super-Fan & Presenter of The Laurel & Hardy Podcast, for a special 'Legacy: Life Reflections' episode in which we preserve the legacy & hare our mutual love and admiration for all things Stan & Ollie.

Stan Laurel is my all time comic hero. I first encountered Stan on a Black & White TV set that hummed into action in Uganda at the age of 7.   And to this day he still inspires me in all the work that I do through his innocence, kindness, warmth & humanity.

Growing up, the antics of Laurel and Hardy were a comforting family presence, sparking laughter that echoed throughout my childhood.

Patrick Vasey is a remarkable, passionate & dedicated aficionado of this legendary duo, here to share his insights into their Silent Film era and with news of his forthcoming book that collates their early masterpieces.

Our heartfelt conversation traverses the duo's magnetic charisma and Patrick's unwavering mission to enshrine their legacy for future admirers, underscoring the challenge of keeping their century-old wit relevant today.

The humor of Laurel and Hardy transcends time, connecting not only to chuckles but to life's deeper rhythms.  Patrick recounts his personal parallels of sibling jests and workplace woes as seen through the lens of their comedy, showing how laughter can be a guiding light through life's maze. His own journey, entwined with the duo's hijinks, from childhood memories to adult connections, paints a picture of how shared joy can lead to unexpected friendships and personal evolution, even without the formality of fan clubs or conventions.

This episode is a tapestry woven with threads of inspiration from the world of arts to the calm of nature, and the peculiar pastime of archery. Our conversation delves into the potent mix of nostalgia and innovation that influences a passion for storytelling. From the iconic flair of Hollywood's yesteryears to the soothing escapism of birdwatching and the unique bond with a beloved pet, the episode reveals the diverse breadth of experiences that shape our lives. And as a bow on this diverse package, we touch upon the sheer delight of podcasting about Laurel and Hardy, highlighting the vital role of preserving the voices of the past to enlighten and entertain generations to come.

You can also Watch/Listen to Patrick's wonderful episode here:
https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/924964455

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening! 

Send us Fan Mail

A wonderful and thought-provoking voyage of discovery with Denise Baden, Professor of Sustainable Practice at Southampton University.  Denise was 'Passed the'Golden Baton' to be in the Show by previous Guest, Paul Z Jackson.

Denise is a luminary in the sustainability sphere and a pioneer in climate change discourse. She is also on the Forbes Official List as 1 of the world's top 68 Climate Leaders & Change Makers.

Listen as she reveals the intricacies of her "Green Stories" initiative, a narrative alchemy that spins the climate crisis into compelling fiction. We pivot from discussing her groundbreaking novel, "Habitat Man," to the resonating impact of her family tapestry on her bold approach to life and academia. Brace yourself for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is heartwarming.

As we wend through Denise's life story, the rich fabric of her experiences unfolds, revealing the imprints of her fearless German mother, her contrarian English father, and the personal growth spurred by early loss. Her tales weave through the halls of university, touching on the expansion of horizons and how these moments cemented her fearless spirit. Add to this the contrasting personalities of her emotionally perceptive son and her brutally honest brother, and you have a narrative that's as multifaceted as it is deeply human.

Closing our session, Denise and I spotlight the transformative power of storytelling, tipping our hats to fellow climate change harbingers like Steve Willis and Jack Klaff. These creators are using their talents to shine a light on environmental issues, inspiring change one story at a time. Join us as we traverse the emotional landscapes of family, the art of ethical writing, the Cuban ethos, and how personal passions shape our worldviews, leaving you with a bountiful harvest of inspiration and a fresh lens on the potential of stories to drive real-world impact & change.

You can also watch/listen to Denises's episode here: https://vimeo.com/chrisgrimes/denisebaden

More useful links:

https://www.dabaden.com/

https://www.greenstories.org.uk/

(2) Denise Baden | LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/denise-baden-3742793

https://twitter.com/DABadenauthor

Green Stories Project

https://habitatpress.com/

https://twitter.com/GreenstoriesUK

https://instagram.com/greenstoriessoton

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening! 

Send us Fan Mail

Have you ever wondered what it takes to rebuild not just a body, but a life? Gareth Dauncey, an Architect passionate about low-impact design and sustainability, joins us to share his journey of recovery and the power of maintaining routines, like his invigorating sea swims in the cold welsh sea. 

He opens up about the challenges he faced post-hip surgery and the morale-boosting connections that kept him afloat—reaching out to admired individuals like hat maker Mike Holmes. Our conversation with Gareth is a toast to the profound moments that subtly shape our existence and a nod to the importance of human connections in our personal and professional growth.

As the waves of life crash around us, finding a moment of stillness can be revelatory. This episode sails into the heart of mindfulness and well-being, guided by Gareth's experiences with Ruby Wax's 'Frazzled' movement and the sanctuary of Frazzled Cafe online gatherings. He recounts the affirmation found within the pages of Wax's book and the life lessons from his recent hospital stay, offering insights into the transient nature of emotions and the courage to seek help, especially for the self-employed. Listeners will be embraced by a dialogue that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit in the face of physical and emotional pain, and the inspiration drawn from those who navigate life's tumultuous waters.

Architecture is often viewed as a rigid craft, but through Gareth's lens, we uncover the fluidity and creativity that lies within. He articulates the delicate balance of achieving simplicity through complexity, a principle that resonates beyond design and into personal growth. Our exchange delves into the ephemeral nature of life's trials and tribulations, the wisdom of the phrase "this too shall pass," and the importance of remaining true to oneself. Join us as we traverse the landscape of creativity, finding inspiration in challenges and embracing the lessons that each day brings.

Tune in next week for more stories of 'Distinction & Genius' from The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  If you would like to be my Guest too then you can find out HOW via the different 'series strands' at 'The Good Listening To Show' website.

• Show Website: https://www.thegoodlisteningtoshow.com
• You can email  me about the Show: [email protected]
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW wherever you get your Podcasts :)

Thanks for listening!