Think Curiously

If I asked you to think of one word to describe 2020 I'm pretty sure that you might be tempted to use a swear word or some other forceful language to express your distain at the events we've just lived through. But not Tyler! Tyler Stone is a 21 year old with an exceptionally inspirational story to tell of how he used lockdown to turn his life around, both physically and mentally. I first came across Tyler's story when he was a guest on the 'What's happening Podcast' presented by Jordan Moore and became intrigued by it. Tyler shares his story in the hope that it helps you to inspire you to share yours. 

Gary Wallace is the founder of CORE NI, starting the company through his passion for promoting healthy active lifestyles and sporting performance for people of all ages and abilities. Gary has also worked as a strength and conditioning coach with the U17, U19 and U21 Northern Ireland international squads before recently being promoted to the senior men's International coaching staff by Ian Barraclough. Things haven't always been as positive for Gary, who speaks candidly of his battle with mental health issues and how having the confidence to speak up would eventually motivate him to take the leap of starting his own company and living a more healthier and successful lifestyle.  

What does Mixed Martial Arts, Ultra Marathon Running and Chicken farming have in common? Turns out more than you think. Harry Strutt is someone with an insatiable drive for self improvement through his pursuit of pushing beyond his limits! From winning a British MMA championship to preparing to run a mammoth 250km marathon and setting his sights on the 268 mile challenge across the Pennines. Harry speaks about his sporting career, the ups and downs and how his competitive nature is balanced by his love of Chicken farming, spending time with his young family and volunteering at a local Organic farm. Literally nothing is off limits for Harry. Can you use his story to help inspire you to challenge yourself?

Every now and then we will encounter someone who's presence we can feel without them speaking a single word. When they enter a room it's as if they have an aura of positivity and energy that on a subconscious level draws you in. I met that very person in 2018 as we both navigated our way through the final moments of the UEFA 'A' coaching Licence in Belfast. Matt Thomas is a coach education manager and mentor plying his trade in Canada, an ex professional footballer, Matt lives his life with the sole purpose of creating and maintaining positive relationships so that, as he puts it, "we create a ripple effect" that helps other promote that very mindset. In this episode we speak about connection and relationship building, loving yourself, absconding social norms and so much more. 

This week I am joined by Joe Smith, Technical Director of Soccer Chance Academy based in Portland, Oregon. Joe tells his story of the multicultural society that helped foster his curiosity and inspired him to explore beyond tradition. Joe speaks candidly about his upbringing in the shadows of Wembley stadium and his time in academy football both as a player and a coach. He elaborates further on  how he's using lessons from his younger years to help inspire players, parents and staff at his club to live a more creative lifestyle.

John Wooden is one of the most decorated College basketball coaches of all time. He won 10 NCAA championships  in 12 years, his UCLA Bruins programme recorded numerous winning streaks that a coach and fan could only ever dream of, 88, 47 and 41 games in a row! But there's much more to his story than trophies and winning streaks, my guest John McAlister and talk openly,  fuelled by copious amounts of tea, about our personal takeaway messages from the work of such an inspirational character.

In this episode I chat with Lee Dodd and Don Sturgeon co owners of Carpe Diem Apparel, a mindset and lifestyle clothing brand from the North Coast of Ireland. No topic is off limits. What does Carpe Diem mean, how was the idea for the clothing brand conceived and what is does a Carpe Diem mindset and lifestyle look like. Recorded at Carpe Diem HQ with an open fire, beer and some pizza! #seizetheday