The Leadership Conversation That Challenges Everything You Think You Know

Join Lev Cribb on the Virtually Anything Goes podcast for an extraordinarily candid conversation with Charles McLachlan, Founder of the CEO Growth Academy. This isn't your typical success-story interview. It's a raw, honest exploration of failure, mental health, vulnerability, and what leadership actually means when you strip away the corporate facade.

Three Truths That Define This Episode:

Charles shares his journey from being "basically unemployable" to building multiple businesses and becoming a sought-after executive coach. But the real story lies in what happened between those milestones: a catastrophic mental breakdown at 17, three years in psychiatric hospitals, electric shock therapy, and the terrifying prospect of permanent institutionalization. This experience taught him the most valuable leadership lesson of all: working harder and smarter won't solve every problem. And trying will destroy you.

Why We're Failing at Failure:

Charles exposes how our obsession with defining success implicitly defines failure, yet we have no cultural mechanisms for engaging with it. From Premier League managers to politicians to corporate leaders, everyone pretends failure doesn't exist. This denial is massively damaging. Charles argues for mourning failure, acknowledging it openly, and building cultures where vulnerability replaces toxic positivity.

The VUCA Framework Reimagined:

Forget vision, clarity, and agility. Charles proposes responding to today's volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous world with vulnerability, unity, community, and acceptance, i.e. a framework that transforms how leaders operate and creates space for extraordinary results.

Plus: The CEO who almost died chasing success, why "leadership" might be a delusion, the power of followership, and Charles's painful exit from a family business that taught him everything.

This conversation will change how you think about success, failure, and what it means to lead.

Subscribe for transformative leadership conversations!

Charles McLachlan is the Founder of the CEO Growth Academy, as well as InspiredCEOs, and the Portfolio Executive Community. Connect with Charles McLachlan on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesmclachlan/

More info at:
CEO Growth Academy https://ceogrowth.biz/about-us/
FuturePerfect https://futureperfect.company
Portfolio Executive Community https://PortfolioExecutive.biz


Lev Cribb is the Founder and Managing Director of Made To See, a UK-based Video and Livestreaming Agency, specialising in the strategic and tactical use of video across B2B organisations. Lev is also the host of the Virtually Anything Goes podcast.

Made To See: https://madetosee.com/

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to https://www.madetosee.com or our YouTube channel  @madetoseemedia ​

Join us for an extraordinary conversation with Jacynth Ivey MBE, a trailblazing leader whose journey from the daughter of Windrush generation immigrants to becoming the first Black Chief Nurse in the West Midlands will leave you inspired and empowered.

In this powerful episode of the Virtually Anything Goes podcast, Jacynth opens up about the obstacles she faced, the microaggressions she navigated, and the resilience she built from childhood through to receiving an MBE from His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales in 2024. From being told she'd "never make anything of herself" to transforming healthcare leadership, her story is a testament to courage, faith, and unwavering determination.

Discover the leadership lessons that shaped a pioneer, including the unexpected turning point that changed her career trajectory, the power of servant leadership rooted in Christian faith, and why she ultimately chose to leave her executive role on her own terms. Jacynth shares invaluable advice for current and aspiring leaders about self-awareness, embracing difference, and why obstacles aren't failures but are part of your journey.

This isn't just another leadership interview, it's a masterclass in resilience, authentic storytelling, and creating spaces where everyone can shine. Whether you're navigating your own career challenges, leading diverse teams, or simply seeking inspiration, Jacynth's wisdom will resonate deeply.

Don't miss the "Virtually Anything Goes" question at the end, where Lev faces Jacynth's thought-provoking challenge about bold moves without limitations!

Subscribe for more inspiring leadership conversations and share this episode with someone who needs to hear this message today.

Jacynth Ivey MBE is an Author,, Executive Coach, and Non-Executive Director for the NHS. Connect with Jacynth Ivey MBE on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacynth-ivey-mbe-6647192b/

Website: https://jacynthivey.com/

Lev Cribb is the Founder and Managing Director of Made To See, a UK-based Video and Livestreaming Agency, specialising in the strategic and tactical use of video across B2B organisations. Lev is also the host of the Virtually Anything Goes podcast.

Made To See: https://madetosee.com/

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to https://www.madetosee.com or our YouTube channel  @madetoseemedia ​

In this episode, host Lev Cribb sits down with Emma Acton, VP of Marketing EMEA at Zendesk, to explore her career journey, leadership lessons, and what it takes to thrive as a modern marketing leader. Emma shares candid insights from her early days in sales, how that experience shaped her perspective on the vital partnership between sales and marketing, and why alignment across teams has never been more critical.

She takes us behind the scenes of marketing’s evolution from the days before websites and mobile phones to today’s complex martech stacks and sophisticated demand-generation engines. With authenticity and clarity, Emma explains how marketing has grown into a driving force for business growth, customer engagement, and sustainable revenue.

You will also hear Emma’s reflections on leadership challenges, including being underestimated and the importance of knowing your numbers. She offers practical advice for marketers navigating high-pressure environments: understanding performance data, demonstrating value, and building strong relationships with sales counterparts. Her message is clear: credibility comes from insight, accountability, and measurable results.

The conversation also turns personal, as Emma discusses the often-misunderstood concept of “imposter syndrome.” Rather than viewing self-doubt as a weakness, she reframes it as a natural, even useful, tool for growth. By breaking challenges down into achievable steps, seeking validation, and remaining open to input from mentors and colleagues, Emma shows how leaders can use moments of uncertainty to sharpen focus and fuel innovation.

Whether you’re a marketing professional looking for career inspiration, a business leader navigating the complexities of team alignment, or simply interested in authentic leadership stories, this episode delivers valuable takeaways. Emma’s journey is a powerful reminder that resilience, curiosity, and a willingness to learn are the foundations of long-term success.

This episode is part of our Leadership Stories Series, where we speak to leaders from a variety of different backgrounds, including AI, Strategy, Marketing, Executive Coaching, Healthcare and others! Subscribe and check out our other episodes on Youtube at  @madetoseemedia

Connect with Emma Acton on Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmaacton/)

Connect with Lev Cribb on Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/levcribb/)

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to our Youtube Channel   @madetoseemedia or https://www.madetosee.com

Step into the future of media with the creator of Virtually Parkinson, the world-first podcast hosted by an AI recreation of legendary broadcaster Sir Michael Parkinson. In this episode of Virtually Anything Goes, Deep Fusion Films CEO and Co-founder Ben Field reveals how he and his team brought the iconic interviewer back to life through cutting-edge AI and groundbreaking production workflows.

AI That Thinks, Listens, and Interviews
Ben takes us behind the scenes of building “AI Parky,” trained on more than 100 hours of classic interviews to hold entirely unscripted conversations with celebrity guests. He shares how the custom-built “Squawk” software allows the virtual host to react in real time and creates surprisingly personal, even therapeutic, discussions that feel authentically Parkinson.

Setting the Standard for Ethical AI
Beyond the show’s wow factor, Ben is shaping the global conversation on responsible AI. From writing ethical frameworks for the BBC’s Gerry Anderson: A Life Uncharted to advising broadcasters and policymakers, he’s helping define how AI can enhance creativity while protecting intellectual property and artist rights.

The Journey Behind the Innovation
Ben also reflects on the career twists, from acting and BBC comedy writing to award-winning directing, that prepared him to lead at the frontier of technology and storytelling. His message: bold experimentation, trust in your team, and clear ethical guardrails can turn big ideas into reality.

If you’re curious about where AI and entertainment collide, or how policy and creativity can coexist, this conversation delivers inspiration and insight in equal measure.

This episode is part of our Leadership Stories Series, where we speak to leaders from a variety of different backgrounds, including AI, Strategy, Marketing, Executive Coaching, Healthcare and others! Subscribe and check out our other episodes on Youtube at @madetoseemedia

Connect with Benjamin Field on Linkedin or find out more at https://www.deepfusionfilms.com/

Connect with Lev Cribb on Linkedin

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to our Youtube Channel or https://www.madetosee.com 
 
 

 
 

Is addiction really a brain disease, or have we been misled? On this eye-opening episode of the Virtually Anything Goes Podcast, we sit down with Professor Derek Heim from Edge Hill University, a leading voice in the psychology of addiction.

In this episode, Professor Derek Heim challenges the traditional narrative by suggesting that addiction may be more of a societal label for undesirable behaviors rather than an actual disorder. We dissect the nuances between habits and addictions, urging listeners to consider these behaviors as normal actions with adverse consequences rather than pathologies. This thought-provoking discussion aims to reframe how we understand and address addiction, offering a fresh perspective that highlights the power of individual agency in overcoming addictive behaviors.

Stigma is a major barrier preventing people from seeking help, and we dive into its ramifications on health and socio-economic status. From the ethical dilemmas around gambling advertisements to the necessity of supportive environments, we tackle the multifaceted approach needed to combat addiction.

Professor Derek Heim sheds light on the importance of specialized support programs for veterans and the significant role friends and family play in recovery. We also explore societal strategies for reducing substance consumption and the positive impact of peer influence. With this episode, we aim to reduce stigma, foster understanding, and empower listeners to believe in their capacity for change. Join us for an enlightening conversation that could redefine how we collectively combat addiction.

If you have been affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, take a look at these additional resources:
- UK SMART Recovery: https://smartrecovery.org.uk/
- The Adullam Programme: https://www.adullamprogramme.co.uk/
- NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support/drug-addiction-getting-help/
- UK Government Debt Advice: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

This episode is part of our Expert Series, where we speak to experts from a variety of different backgrounds, including Sleep & Insomnia, Addiction, Public Speaking, Eye Surgery, Crisis Communications, and even Magic! So be sure to subscribe and check out our other episodes on our Youtube Channel at  @madetoseemedia

Find out more about Professor Derek Heim at https://research.edgehill.ac.uk/en/persons/derek-heim

Find and listen the audio-only version of this episode on your favourite podcast platform.

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to our Youtube Channel or https://www.madetosee.com 

Connect with Lev Cribb at https://www.linkedin.com/in/levcribb/

Eye Surgeon Mr Andrew Davies joins host Lev Cribb on the Virtually Anything Goes Podcast Expert Series to share his insights, stories, as well as humorously busting some myths about Eye Surgery. Andrew is an Ophthalmic Consultant, who is one of very few surgeons who specialise in Vitreoretinal Surgery, i.e. surgery at the back of the eye.

Ever wondered how advanced surgical techniques are pushing the boundaries of eye care? Discover the intricate world of vitreoretinal surgery with our esteemed guest, Mr. Andrew Davies, a leading consultant ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon. With extensive training from Moorfields Eye Hospital and Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Andrew brings a wealth of experience and knowledge, offering a detailed look into the anatomy of the eye and the complexities of surgeries involving the vitreous and retina.

Join us as we break down the evolution of eye surgery, likening the human eye to a traditional camera to simplify the understanding of these complex procedures. Andrew shares his personal journey into the highly specialized field of vitreoretinal surgery, explaining why it attracts only a select few due to its unpredictable and often emergency nature. We discuss the remarkable advancements in surgical techniques and technologies over the past 100 years (and beyond), highlighting how modern innovations have significantly increased the safety and precision of eye surgeries.

This episode also light-heartedly addresses common myths and fears associated with eye surgery, providing clarity and reassurance to potential patients. Andrew recounts real-life cases, including a dramatic incident involving a jeweller, to illustrate the range and severity of conditions treated with vitreoretinal surgery. Furthermore, we explore the collaborative efforts of surgical teams, the future of robotic surgery in ophthalmology, and practical eye health tips to help you maintain optimal vision. Don’t miss our engaging "virtually anything goes" question segment to wrap up this enlightening conversation.

This episode is part of our Expert Series, where we speak to experts from a variety of different backgrounds, including Sleep & Insomnia, Addiction, Public Speaking, Eye Surgery, Crisis Communications, and even Magic! So be sure to subscribe and check out our other episodes on our Youtube Channel at  @madetoseemedia

Find out more about Mr Andrew Davies at https://lancashireeyeclinic.co.uk/meet-the-team/

Find and listen the audio-only version of this episode on your favourite podcast platform.

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to our Youtube Channel or https://www.madetosee.com 

Connect with Lev Cribb at https://www.linkedin.com/in/levcribb/

Public Speaking Expert and Coach Maryanne Johnston joins host Lev Cribb on the Virtually Anything Goes Podcast Expert Series to share advice and insightful stories about Public Speaking.

Curious about the secrets of mastering public speaking? Our latest episode features Maryanne Johnston, a seasoned public speaking coach with over two decades of experience, who compares conquering stage fright to learning to drive a car. Maryanne breaks down how understanding your natural communication style can help you transition smoothly into more formal settings and conquer common fears, like stage fright and the fear of the unknown. You'll discover tailored techniques to harness your strengths and build lasting confidence in any speaking scenario.

Unearth the art of crafting engaging presentations with our deep dive into audience analysis and message structuring. Maryanne passionately explains how understanding your audience's background and expectations serves as a compass for your narrative. Learn the power of compelling stories, case studies, and visual aids to create memorable and impactful presentations. We also discuss the dual importance of preparation and delivery to ensure your content hits the mark every time.

Our episode concludes with practical tips on mastering delivery strategies, from maintaining a conversational pace to using strategic pauses and embracing silence. Maryanne shares cautionary tales about the pitfalls of humour and underscores the significance of cultural sensitivity, especially in international settings. You'll also get insightful advice on balancing scripting with spontaneous speaking and strategies for recovering from mistakes. With lessons drawn from TED Talks and real-world anecdotes, this episode equips you with the tools to excel in any public speaking endeavour.

This episode is part of our Expert Series, where we speak to experts from a variety of different backgrounds, including Sleep & Insomnia, Addiction, Public Speaking, Eye Surgery, Crisis Communications, and even Magic! So be sure to subscribe and check out our other episodes on our Youtube Channel at @madetoseemedia

Find out more about Maryanne Johnston at https://www.maryannejohnston.co.uk/ or connect with her on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryannejohnston/

Find and listen the audio-only version of this episode on your favourite podcast platform.

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to our Youtube Channel or https://www.madetosee.com 

Connect with Lev Cribb at https://www.linkedin.com/in/levcribb/

The Founder & CEO of the National Mentoring Day, Chelsey Baker, joins host Lev Cribb on the Virtually Anything Goes Podcast Expert Series to share insights and inspiring stories about the importance and impact of mentoring.

Listen in and watch to hear how leaders from companies like NASA, Virgin, Accenture, Linkedin, and others have benefitted from mentoring and have paid it forward with their experience.

Ever wondered how mentoring can revolutionize your professional journey? Discover the multifaceted benefits of mentoring with Chelsey Baker, the inspiring CEO of National Mentoring Day. Chelsea takes us through her remarkable career shift from a senior executive in media and communications to spearheading a global initiative that celebrates mentoring. Learn how her extensive expertise in public speaking, PR, and business pitching equipped her to train thousands of CEOs and entrepreneurs. Chelsey's passion for mentoring is palpable as she shares heartwarming success stories and practical advice, proving that mentoring is a game-changer at all career stages.

Founded in 2014 by Chelsey Baker, the National Mentoring Day was inaugurated as an official National Day in the Houses of Parliament under the patronage of Lord Young, is supported by the Prince’s Trust, and has since become an internationally recognised with more than 250,000 organisations taking part globally on the 27th of October every year.

Chelsey Baker’s award-winning career spans more than 20 years working in media, TV, communications, publishing, PR and Marketing. Chelsey is renowned as the UK's top pitching expert, training CEOs, entrepreneurs, and leaders in public speaking and business pitching. She was named “Influential Woman of the Year”, “Visionary Woman Serving Humanity”, and has won the “Excellence in Enterprise Mentoring” award at BAFTA.

Chelsey Baker has seen the positive and life-changing impact of mentoring first hand. In this episode, she shares how mentoring works and how it is accessible for every child, adult, and organisation irrespective of age, race, gender, background, or circumstance.

Whether you are a CEO of a global organisation or a 6-year old child, mentoring is for everyone and everyone can benefit from it.

This episode is part of our Expert Series, where we speak to experts from a variety of different backgrounds, including Sleep & Insomnia, Addiction, Public Speaking, Eye Surgery, Crisis Communications, and even Magic! So be sure to subscribe and check out our other episodes on our Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@madetoseemedia

Find and listen the audio-only version of this episode on your favourite podcast platform.

Find out more about the National Mentoring Day at https://nationalmentoringday.org/
Or follow Chelsey Baker on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseybaker/

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to our Youtube Channel or https://www.madetosee.com 

Multi-Award Winning Sales Consultant Sam McKenna (Founder and CEO of Sam Sales Consulting) joins host Lev Cribb on the Virtually Anything Goes Podcast Expert Series to share her insights and experience of what makes successful Salespeople and Sales Teams.

What if the secret to sales success lies in genuine human connections rather than aggressive tactics? Join us for an engaging conversation with Sam McKenna, CEO and founder of Sam Sales Consulting, as she reveals how she transformed skepticism into a thriving career by focusing on the human element in sales. From breaking records at On24 and LinkedIn to leading an all-women team, Sam's journey is a testament to the power of empathy and authenticity in business.

Discover how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped sales strategies, pushing the industry towards digital and remote selling. Sam shares invaluable insights on leveraging social media and maintaining sales cycles virtually. Learn about the pitfalls of quantity-over-quality approaches and the controversial practice of double cold calling. Our discussion highlights the importance of personalized outreach and building genuine connections, offering practical advice on modern sales strategies and etiquette.

As we wrap up, prepare to laugh out loud with our light-hearted segment filled with professional and personal embarrassments that everyone can relate to. From mistaken declarations of love to awkward salon mishaps, these stories remind us that even experts have their cringe-worthy moments. Tune in for an episode that blends valuable sales wisdom with a dose of humor, making it a must-listen for anyone in the sales profession.

This episode is part of our Expert Series, where we speak to experts from a variety of different backgrounds, including Sleep & Insomnia, Addiction, Mentoring, Eye Surgery, Sales, and even Magic! So be sure to subscribe and check out our other episodes. 

Find and listen the audio-only version of this episode on your favourite podcast platform. 

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to our Youtube Channel or https://www.madetosee.com 

Communications Expert Sam Hall (Senior Director, Corporate, Brand, and Employee Communications at Samsara Inc.) joins host Lev Cribb on the Virtually Anything Goes Podcast Expert Series to talk about Corporate and Crisis Communications.

In this episode, Sam Hall and Lev Cribb dive into a range of aspects of what makes a good communicator, how to communicate with a diverse range of people, how to communicate in a crisis, and how to find common ground when everyone has a different opinion on the best way forward.

Sam Hall has a long and successful career working for some of the world’s most recognisable brands. Throughout his career, his expertise and communication skills have served to build internal and external communications capabilities for many different situations, companies, and industry leaders.

This episode is part of our Expert Series, where we speak to experts from a variety of different backgrounds, including Sleep & Insomnia, Addiction, Mentoring, Eye Surgery, Sales, and even Magic! So be sure to subscribe and check out our other episodes. 

Find and listen the audio-only version of this episode on your favourite podcast platform. 

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to our Youtube Channel or https://www.madetosee.com