The Good Listening To Show: Stories of Distinction & Genius

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Please welcome acclaimed Theatre Director with many a 'Theatrical Banger' to her name, Lucy Pitman-Wallace.  A life in the theatre and her love of Shakespeare in particular began for her at the tender & impressionable age of 8, when her mother ‘laughed in the face of getting a baby-sitter’ and took her to see a production of “Measure for Measure. Lucy’s passion for ‘dense texts’ in particular began from that point on.

Lucy has Directed at the National and at the RSC and at many of the Nation's leading Drama schools, with a particular passion for the power of theatre in building community and for mentoring new talent to be introduced to the wonderful world of theatre.

A delightful episode including some comedy interruptions from a postman and a temporary Zoom crash - but just as there's 'no script for life' we banter on and push on through majestically!

You can even watch our comedy interruptions in all their entertaining glory here:
https://vimeo.com/chrisgrimes/lucypitmanwallace

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! 

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You know those moments when you hit a wall, find yourself stuck in a rut, or feel like you’re just going through the motions? That’s exactly where we found ourselves until we met Sean and Henry from Pivotal Twist. These guys have crafted an innovative approach to talent optimization - a process that has positively transformed our lives and is guaranteed to change yours too. In this episode, they share their unique methodologies, demonstrating how they empower individuals and leaders to conquer self-limiting beliefs and thrive.

Imagine being on a constant growth trajectory, constantly pushing boundaries, both in your personal and professional life. That's the life Sean and Henry live. Their personal stories about their backgrounds in theater, their passion for fostering growth, and the unique ways they challenge themselves, like taking cold showers, offer a fresh, dynamic perspective. These experiences have not only shaped their company, Pivotal Twist, but also have the power to reshape the way you perceive your potential.

We also delve into the transformative power of finding purpose and fulfillment in work. We explore the democratization of permission and the power of DIY in today's world. We shared our favorite inspirational quotes and offered advice to our younger selves, of which the essence was simplicity - focusing on your true passion. We wrapped up the episode by passing on the golden baton to Dmitri Koltinov, founder and CEO of Arbor. As we end this enriching conversation, remember to always breathe and be present in the moment. This podcast episode is a goldmine of inspiration and growth, tune in and let it transform you.

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! 

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Ready to peek behind the curtain of comedy improvisation? This week's episode is a treasure trove of insights, all thanks to our special guest, Paul Z Jackson. Fun, fascinating, and full of life, Jackson opens up about his journey from arts lover to improv guru. He shares his unique perspective on improvisation, describing it as "telepathy in action" and discusses his deep-seated love for literature, writing, and the arts that have all played influential roles in his life.

Our conversation takes an interesting turn as we discuss the pivotal moments that have shaped Jackson's life. From a spontaneous visit to an improv show that ignited his love for the art form, to the larger-than-life influence of football manager Graham Taylor and the captivating book and film "All the President's Men". But it’s not all serious talk - we also bond over our shared love for tennis, table tennis, and the never-ending hunt for the perfect scone!

You can also Watch/Listen to Paul's episode here: https://vimeo.com/chrisgrimes/paulzjackson

This episode isn't just about listening; it's a masterclass in the art of conversation, facilitated by none other than Jackson himself. He provides valuable insights into how to conduct a structured conversation, emphasizing the power of provocative questions, the magic of storytelling, and understanding the dynamics of a conversation. Injecting a healthy dose of laughter into the mix, Jackson reveals the fascinating world of improvisation and its surprising utility in our day-to-day lives. So, are you ready to spark some joy, pick up some wisdom, and possibly fall in love with improvisation? Come along for the ride!

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 Speaker, International Best Selling Author & Coach, Michael Heppell to The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.

Picture this: You're at a networking event, someone asks you, "What do you do?" and you respond with, "I'm a gap filler." Intriguing, isn't it? That's just a taste of the unique perspective that our guest, Michael Heppell, brings to today's conversation. Prepare to be inspired!

You can also Watch/Listen to Michael's wonderful episode here: https://vimeo.com/chrisgrimes/michaelheppell

Heppell, an inspirational speaker, customer service expert, and best-selling author, shares how he breaks from the mold of an average life. His journey is deeply personal and engaging, filled with defining moments that include a chance encounter with a professor and a museum job offer that became an entrepreneurial spark.

As Heppell takes us through his life’s journey, you’ll find his stories to be more than just inspiring. They are also empowering, especially as he discusses his program 'Write that Book,' designed to help others write, publish, and sell their own books. Heppell applauds true entrepreneurs who dare to venture out, highlighting the importance of their courage and risk-taking abilities. His triumphs, trials, and passion echo the extraordinary power of perseverance and tenacity.

Finally, we wander into the fascinating world of language and storytelling. Heppell shares his favourite inspirational quote and offers sage advice to his younger self. 

We also learn about the most impactful piece of advice he's ever received. Wrapping up our conversation, Hepel shares his thoughts on legacy, and how he hopes to be remembered - as someone who was there for others in their time of need. 

Tune in to this compelling discussion with Michael Heppell and prepare to challenge your perspective on what it means to lead a brilliant and fulfilling life.

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

Ever felt your creativity stifled by the monotony of office spaces or mundane routines? How about looking to the great outdoors for some inspiration? We had the pleasure of hosting Garry Pratt, author of "The Creativity Factor," who believes that nature can be a powerful tool for unleashing our creative potential. Garry shared his personal journey and insights on the relationship between nature and creativity, how strolling outside can clear our minds, and how it's helped him run his business. 

Think about it, how many times have you suddenly found the answer to a problem while on a quiet walk? This episode explores that very concept! We discuss how distraction and walking can spark ingenious ideas, share our personal experiences and favorite places that help us find clarity, and touch upon the metaphor of climbing a mountain. This episode is also peppered with fun and fascinating trivia about Garry’s expertise in Bronze Age sailing, his love for camping and cooking over a fire, and how these activities bring him joy and purpose in life.

As we wrap up, we invite you on a journey to rethink your work approach and consider the outdoors as your new productivity tool. Storytelling, another critical aspect of entrepreneurship, takes center stage as we discuss how walking in nature can set the stage for new narratives. We even share a quick exercise to help you create and share stories using found items – a tool for building trust within a team. So, buckle up for an insightful discussion that ends on a sweet note with a metaphorical carrot cake, a reminder to savor the simple joys of life.

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 Actor, Animal Rights Activist Peter Egan to The Good Listening To Show 'Clearing'.  Fresh off a plane from Vietnam, Peter is here to recount his poignant experiences of just having returned from a Bear Sanctuary managed by his beloved charity, Animals Asia. 

A life long and passionate Animals advocate & vegan, Peter very movingly highlights the tragic reality of Moon Bears trapped in crush-cages with a life of despair in the Bile Farms of Vietnam, and the commendable efforts by Animals Asia to give these beautiful creatures a second chance at life in a Sanctuary at last.

A pleasure & a priviledge to curate him through the journey of the show, the conversation then takes a very Shakespearean scenic detour, as we wander along together through his 'Clearing' of a serene woodland retreat, accompanied by his four loyal canine companions. We then venture into the shared world of our love of acting, mentioning greats such as John Gielgud, Laurence Olivier & Peter O'Toole, along with Peter O'Toole's mentor, Director Nat Brenner. 

We also get a 'sneak-peek' into his latest TV project, "True Love", and the bond he shares with Daniel Day-Lewis, a fellow alumni of mine at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School with a conversation about Acting Teacher Legend Rudi Shelley too.

My conversation with Peter then takes a deeply personal turn as he opens up about his greatest love of his life, his late wife, Myra. Listen in as he movingly reflects on her courageous battle with cancer and her brave decision to take control of her treatment. We then delve once again into Peter's unwavering commitment to animal welfare and how he's embraced a vegan lifestyle too. 

From his rebellious student days to his successful acting career, and his undying passion for animal rights, prepare to be inspired by Peter's extraordinary journey and how he's leveraging his platform for change and for the welfare of all.

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 ‘National Treasure Whisperer’ (!) Actor, Director & Author Brendan O’Hea to the Good Listening To Show ‘Clearing’. Brendan and I were at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School together way-back-when.

Encounter the magical world of theatre as we journey alongside Brendan O’Hea, author of the beautifully curated book "Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays The Rent", co-written with his great friend of 30 years, Dame Judi Dench.

A book lovingly curated & co-written over the last 4 years of conversations which all started at beginning of the Pandemic, with his great friend of 30 years, Dame Judi Dench. Written as a 'love letter to Shakespeare' to celebrate her 70 years of Shakesepare and all the parts that she has played.

From the extraordinary tales embedded within its pages to the intriguing process of its creation, this episode promises to engage, inspire, and fascinate. The conversation takes a deep dive into Brendan & Judi Dench's creative process, the necessity of taking mental breaks, the phenomenon of muscle memory in Shakespearean actors, and the profound power of metaphors.

Not only do we delve into the mechanics of theatre but we also explore its transformative influence. Brendan highlights the commendable work of "Scene and Heard", a London-based theatre company that champions children’s creativity. We discuss the role of theatre in education, how it nurtures empathy, and the impact it has in shaping a decent civilization. The conversation also covers the importance of acknowledging the unsung heroes of a theatrical production and the value of collective efforts in a successful production.

But the show's not over yet! Stick around as we navigate through Brendan's unconventional stint as a ‘Fishy Santa’ (!) at Hamleys, revealing the unexpected opportunities life throws at us. We also dissect the fine details that go into directing plays and the parallels drawn with parenting, cultivating an environment wherein creativity thrives. Lastly, for those grappling with the pressure of early careers, we also touch upon overcoming limitations, embracing failure, and transforming it into a stepping stone towards success. So sit back, tune in, and prepare to be transported into an enchanting world of theatre, creativity and the timeless works of Shakespeare in the extraordinarily good company of Brendan O’Hea.

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

"Interestingly, the best way to get people more interested in you, is to do-and-be more interesting!" Please welcome Mychael Owen, wise and enigmatic Associate Brand Director and author of a brilliant Newsletter called "50odd: The diary of a man that stopped waiting" As he says on his https://www.mychael.co.uk website, he's the Brand Director that you should have had from day 1 but didn't!"

Ever pondered what makes a brand compelling and successful? Mychael Owen, associate brand director and owner of 'Always Wear Red', is our guide in this enlightening conversation about the significant role of branding in a business. Mychael regales us with his unique perspective on how character, context, and creativity can captivate both internal and external audiences, shaping businesses into better, more interesting entities. 

This journey isn't just about business, it delves into the personal experiences that shaped Mychael. From tales of his upbringing in Manchester to the impact of his stepfather and step-grandfather, each story intertwines with his brand-building philosophy. There's insight to be gleaned as he unpacks how unresolved anger towards his mother became a catalyst for self-improvement. We also navigate the turbulent waters of celebrity impressions, analyzing the stories of George Michael, Matthew Perry, and the profound influence of Dave Trot, a business communication genius. 

As we steer the conversation towards Mychael's reflections on language, parenting, and legacy, he asserts a refreshing belief that being different is more impactful than just being better. Michael's captivating perspective on life, his inspirations, and his experiences are bound to leave you pondering your own brand and personal journey. Join us as we step into the shoes of one of the most intriguing brand directors in the business, and maybe, just maybe, you might find the inspiration to be different too.

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! 

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Have you ever pondered the question of how to embrace both light and darkness in life? In our latest episode, we join Simon Bergenroth, the MD of 3Hats, as he shares his journey of faith and resilience on the 15th anniversary of his father's death. Simon's inspiring story takes us on a journey through his struggles with bipolar disorder, the influence of his guardian angel, Christina Bruns, and his departure from the West Midlands. 

This episode explores Simon's path to finding purpose amid adversity and how his faith has helped him celebrate life. Through his executive coaching and advising business, Simon guides his clients to discover new opportunities by looking both backward and forward. You'll hear his thoughtful insights on parenthood, the beauty of different cultures, and his appreciation for the natural world.

Simon's vision of shining light into the dark places of the world is as intriguing as it is inspiring. He shares his dream of creating a global agency, 'LIGHT', dedicated to illuminating the world's darkest corners. Towards the end, our conversation touches on Simon's perspective on legacy and his aspiration to be a 'weapon of mass salvation'. Tune in to hear this powerful story of resilience, purpose, and the human spirit. This isn't just another podcast episode; it's an invitation to explore a life lived in light and darkness.

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!

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Ever wondered how an Executive Coach with over 3,000 hours of experience working with over 100 of the world's biggest companies could help you to unlock your full potential?

Delighted to welcome Calum Byers, the Scottish pipe-smoking Coach, here to tell us his ‘Founder Story’:  The story-behind-the-story of his company Schiltron Associates and his personal journey into the world of Coaching.

You can also watch/listen to Calum's episode here: https://www.linkedin.com/video/live/urn:li:ugcPost:7121119109815091200/

Calum is a richly experienced Executive Coach with over 3000 hours of coaching experience with 450 clients from over 100 companies including : Babcock, Starbucks, Spotify, Microsoft, RBS, Vodafone, Morgan Stanley, Equinix, CocaCola, UBS, HSBC, TES, Thomson Reuters, Squarespace, Angel Trains, the FCA, the IPO and a wide range of start-ups and SMEs.

Recorded also as a LinkedIn LIVE with Calum broadcasting from his dedicated and very special 'Coaching Chair', making him Calum "Chair of the Board" Byers!

As we journey through Calum's rich tapestry of life experiences, we explore his African roots, his parents' missionary work, and his relentless curiosity & quest for knowledge. An engineer by training & background Calum is a corporate man turned Coach.

He candidly discusses his fears and self-discoveries, shedding light on how he has been influenced by his family, particularly the determination of his son and his daughter's pursuit of their dreams.

Our conversation then veers into an unusual but fitting metaphor—Midwifery for Coaching. We delve into the importance of structure and framework, drawing parallels with the role of a midwife. Inspirational quotes that have shaped Calum's life, his sweet spot for carrot cake, and his views on legacy and purpose - all making for a most enjoyable episode indeed!

See also Calum's website: http://www.schiltronassociates.com

Enjoy!

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!