The Locked up Living Podcast: Surviving and thriving in prisons and other challenging environments

In this conversation David and Naomi meet with Michael Allison . Michaels discusses his work as a Polyvagal performance consultant and the founder of the Playzone. He explains that his journey into Polyvagal theory began when he owned a fitness facility and wellness center, where he noticed the positive impact of creating a safe and connected community for his clients. This led him to study behavior science and eventually discover the power of Polyvagal theory in understanding and optimizing human physiology.

Polyvagal theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, focuses on the physiological state of individuals and how it affects their behavior and interactions. It emphasizes the importance of feeling safe and connected in order to tap into one's highest potential and align with their values. Michael explains that our nervous system is constantly assessing whether we can trust others and feel safe enough to be ourselves. Understanding the shifts in our physiology can help us navigate difficult interactions and have conversations with greater alignment and authenticity.

The Playzone course, based on Michael's initial manuscript, is designed for coaches, consultants, business leaders, psychologists, and professionals in various fields who want to optimize their physiology to support higher performance and resilience. The course delves into the science behind Polyvagal theory and explores different tools and strategies to create a container of safety and connection. Michael shares case studies and real-life examples to help participants understand and apply the concepts in their own lives and work.

https://theplayzone.com/

Michael also discusses his collaboration with the Polyvagal Institute and his efforts to bring Polyvagal theory to a wider audience. He aims to make the theory accessible and applicable, without requiring a deep understanding of the science behind it. 

Overall, this podcast conversation highlights the significance of Polyvagal theory in understanding human behavior and optimizing our physiology for greater well-being and success. It emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of safety and connection in order to thrive in various aspects of life.

https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/items/the-play-zone%3A-a-neurophysiological-approach-to-our-highest-performance

• Polyvagal theory provides a framework for understanding the impact of physiology on human experience and behavior.

In this conversation David and Naomi meet with Michael Allison . Michaels discusses his work as a Polyvagal performance consultant and the founder of the Playzone. He explains that his journey into Polyvagal theory began when he owned a fitness facility and wellness center, where he noticed the positive impact of creating a safe and connected community for his clients. This led him to study behavior science and eventually discover the power of Polyvagal theory in understanding and optimizing human physiology.

Polyvagal theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, focuses on the physiological state of individuals and how it affects their behavior and interactions. It emphasizes the importance of feeling safe and connected in order to tap into one's highest potential and align with their values. Michael explains that our nervous system is constantly assessing whether we can trust others and feel safe enough to be ourselves. Understanding the shifts in our physiology can help us navigate difficult interactions and have conversations with greater alignment and authenticity.

The Playzone course, based on Michael's initial manuscript, is designed for coaches, consultants, business leaders, psychologists, and professionals in various fields who want to optimize their physiology to support higher performance and resilience. The course delves into the science behind Polyvagal theory and explores different tools and strategies to create a container of safety and connection. Michael shares case studies and real-life examples to help participants understand and apply the concepts in their own lives and work.

https://theplayzone.com/

Michael also discusses his collaboration with the Polyvagal Institute and his efforts to bring Polyvagal theory to a wider audience. He aims to make the theory accessible and applicable, without requiring a deep understanding of the science behind it. 

Overall, this podcast conversation highlights the significance of Polyvagal theory in understanding human behavior and optimizing our physiology for greater well-being and success. It emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of safety and connection in order to thrive in various aspects of life.

https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/items/the-play-zone%3A-a-neurophysiological-approach-to-our-highest-performance

• Polyvagal theory provides a framework for understanding the impact of physiology on human experience and behavior.

In this episode, David and Naomi meet Caitriona Lyons, a mental health specialist in equine assisted psychotherapy. Caitriona explains that horse-assisted therapy is a form of therapy where horses are used to support people in their mental health journey. The therapy is conducted on the ground, and no horse riding experience is needed. The horses help people to get to know themselves better and provide a sense of calm and relaxation. Katrina shares stories of how horses have helped individuals, including children with anger issues and adults in addiction recovery. She also discusses the availability of horse-assisted therapy and recommends turning off the TV and spending time in nature as ways to promote well-being.

https://kerryequinetherapiesandcounselling.ie/

https://www.eagala.org/

http://horsesconnect.com/

https://www.equineassistedpsychotherapyireland.com/empty-page

In this episode, David and Naomi meet Caitriona Lyons, a mental health specialist in equine assisted psychotherapy. Caitriona explains that horse-assisted therapy is a form of therapy where horses are used to support people in their mental health journey. The therapy is conducted on the ground, and no horse riding experience is needed. The horses help people to get to know themselves better and provide a sense of calm and relaxation. Katrina shares stories of how horses have helped individuals, including children with anger issues and adults in addiction recovery. She also discusses the availability of horse-assisted therapy and recommends turning off the TV and spending time in nature as ways to promote well-being.

https://kerryequinetherapiesandcounselling.ie/

https://www.eagala.org/

http://horsesconnect.com/

https://www.equineassistedpsychotherapyireland.com/empty-page

Martyn Pittman, was a popular and successful consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist. He tells us his story of being dismissed from his dream job after raising concerns about patient safety and management issues. He describes the hostile takeover of his hospital by a neighboring trust, (a common but little investigated event) the imposition of a midwifery-led normalisation agenda, and the resistance to evidence-based care. Martyn's whistleblowing led to a formal investigation and a campaign to discredit him, including spreading false rumors. He highlights the isolation and gaslighting he experienced throughout the process. Martyn Pitman shares his experience of being a whistleblower in the NHS and the devastating impact it had on his career and personal life. He discusses the unfair treatment he faced from the trust, the lengthy investigation process, and the lack of support from the legal system. Martyn emphasizes the importance of self-care and seeking support during such challenging times. He also highlights the need for accountability and support for whistleblowers in the healthcare system.

Martyn Pittman, was a popular and successful consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist. He tells us his story of being dismissed from his dream job after raising concerns about patient safety and management issues. He describes the hostile takeover of his hospital by a neighboring trust, (a common but little investigated event) the imposition of a midwifery-led normalisation agenda, and the resistance to evidence-based care. Martyn's whistleblowing led to a formal investigation and a campaign to discredit him, including spreading false rumors. He highlights the isolation and gaslighting he experienced throughout the process. Martyn Pitman shares his experience of being a whistleblower in the NHS and the devastating impact it had on his career and personal life. He discusses the unfair treatment he faced from the trust, the lengthy investigation process, and the lack of support from the legal system. Martyn emphasizes the importance of self-care and seeking support during such challenging times. He also highlights the need for accountability and support for whistleblowers in the healthcare system.

https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/23816023.martyn-pitman-supporters-force-start-tribunal/

https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/23950068.martyn-pitman-pulls-unfair-dismissal-case-hhft/

Russell Webster was born and bred in Coventry and with a degree in modern languages behind him, Russell spent ten years working in the social care field. He qualified as a probation officer in 1987 and worked with offenders in North and East London. He also worked for a range of voluntary sector organisations in both this country and the USA. Russell developed his consultancy skills through work with two national voluntary organisations before going freelance in 1996. Russell has been a full-time researcher/consultant ever since. Although the work always varies, it mainly comprises research for various government departments, needs assessments for local commissioners and evaluation work with community organisations.

He is perhaps best known for this blog which keeps readers up to date with the latest research, policy and practice in the drugs & crime sectors.

https://www.russellwebster.com/blog/

Russell is a former probation officer turned consultant. He talks about his journey and experiences in the criminal justice system. He discusses how he got into probation work, the challenges he faced, and why he eventually left the profession. Russell also talks about his transition to freelance work and the advantages and disadvantages of being self-employed. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and understanding one's strengths and weaknesses. Russell's expertise in communication and networking has made him a respected figure in the criminal justice field. Russell Webster, a freelance criminal justice consultant, shares his journey and experiences in the field. He discusses how he got started in research and evaluation, highlighting the importance of working with others who have different skill sets. He also talks about his passion for evaluating positive projects, such as a charity that teaches prisoners how to stitch, and the satisfaction he finds in making a difference. Russell emphasizes the need for accessibility in academic work and the value of networking and partnerships. He concludes with practical advice for those considering freelance consulting.

• Russell Webster's passion for making a difference and his interest in people led him to become a probation officer.

Russell Webster was born and bred in Coventry and with a degree in modern languages behind him, Russell spent ten years working in the social care field. He qualified as a probation officer in 1987 and worked with offenders in North and East London. He also worked for a range of voluntary sector organisations in both this country and the USA. Russell developed his consultancy skills through work with two national voluntary organisations before going freelance in 1996. Russell has been a full-time researcher/consultant ever since. Although the work always varies, it mainly comprises research for various government departments, needs assessments for local commissioners and evaluation work with community organisations.

He is perhaps best known for this blog which keeps readers up to date with the latest research, policy and practice in the drugs & crime sectors.

https://www.russellwebster.com/blog/

Russell is a former probation officer turned consultant. Talks about his journey and experiences in the criminal justice system. He discusses how he got into probation work, the challenges he faced, and why he eventually left the profession. Russell also talks about his transition to freelance work and the advantages and disadvantages of being self-employed. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and understanding one's strengths and weaknesses. Russell's expertise in communication and networking has made him a respected figure in the criminal justice field. Russell Webster, a freelance criminal justice consultant, shares his journey and experiences in the field. He discusses how he got started in research and evaluation, highlighting the importance of working with others who have different skill sets. He also talks about his passion for evaluating positive projects, such as a charity that teaches prisoners how to stitch, and the satisfaction he finds in making a difference. Russell emphasizes the need for accessibility in academic work and the value of networking and partnerships. He concludes with practical advice for those considering freelance consulting.

• Russell Webster's passion for making a difference and his interest in people led him to become a probation officer.

Patrick Reid, a currency expert and trader, shares his journey of making a late career change and finding fulfillment in trading. He emphasizes the importance of being curious, taking risks, and not being afraid of failure. Patrick discusses the difference between trading and gambling, the presence of scammers in the industry, and the need for individuals to do their due diligence. He also shares tips for managing the high levels of risk and uncertainty in trading, including having a structured routine, talking to friends, and writing down tasks and goals. Everything Patrick says can be appied in other areas of life.

takeaways

• Late career changes are possible and can lead to fulfillment and success.

Patrick is a currency expert with over 15 years experience in trading FX and propriety desks. He has accepted a role as Visiting Lecturer at The University of Cambridge and is Co-Founder of The Adamis Principle which mentors traders at all levels.

During his career he has mentored clients from Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan and Credit Suisse. His passion is nurturing and finding talent within young people has led him to partner with The Youth Group and Jack Parsons, The UK’s chief youth officer. Adamis Principle’s outreach to less fortunate young people is a top priority for him.

Patrick has regular meetings with FX traders at The Bank of England for research and academic discussions only.

https://www.adamisprinciple.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-reid-5b51bb21/?originalSubdomain=uk

Patrick Reid, a currency expert and trader, shares his journey of making a late career change and finding fulfillment in trading. He emphasizes the importance of being curious, taking risks, and not being afraid of failure. Patrick discusses the difference between trading and gambling, the presence of scammers in the industry, and the need for individuals to do their due diligence. He also shares tips for managing the high levels of risk and uncertainty in trading, including having a structured routine, talking to friends, and writing down tasks and goals. Everything Patrick says can be appied in other areas of life.

takeaways

• Late career changes are possible and can lead to fulfillment and success.

Patrick is a currency expert with over 15 years experience in trading FX and propriety desks. He has accepted a role as Visiting Lecturer at The University of Cambridge and is Co-Founder of The Adamis Principle which mentors traders at all levels.

During his career he has mentored clients from Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan and Credit Suisse. His passion is nurturing and finding talent within young people has led him to partner with The Youth Group and Jack Parsons, The UK’s chief youth officer. Adamis Principle’s outreach to less fortunate young people is a top priority for him.

Patrick has regular meetings with FX traders at The Bank of England for research and academic discussions only.

https://www.adamisprinciple.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-reid-5b51bb21/?originalSubdomain=uk