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  @WebinarExperts  

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 https://www.webinarexperts.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  @WebinarExperts  

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 https://www.webinarexperts.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  @WebinarExperts  

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 https://www.webinarexperts.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/@WebinarExperts 

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 https://www.webinarexperts.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 https://www.webinarexperts.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 https://www.webinarexperts.com 

Dr. Lindsay Browning joins host Lev Cribb on the Virtually Anything Goes Podcast Expert Series to talk about Sleep and Insomnia.

Unlock the secrets to better sleep and a healthier life with our special guest, Dr. Lindsay Browning, a renowned chartered psychologist, neuroscientist, and author. Dr. Browning shares her expertise on how poor sleep can lead to serious health issues like depression, heart disease, and even dementia. In this insightful episode, she reveals practical strategies for improving sleep through psychological therapy, behavioral changes, and addressing medical causes. Discover why you shouldn't settle for subpar sleep and how prioritizing rest can profoundly enhance your well-being.

We dive into the historical undervaluation of sleep and how recent research underscores its critical role in mental and physical health. From the rise of sleep-tracking technology to the impact of COVID-19 on our sleep habits, this episode sheds light on why getting enough rest is more important than ever. Dr. Browning also discusses the benefits of sleep for memory and cognitive function, emphasizing how adequate rest facilitates physical repair and memory consolidation. Whether you're struggling to prioritize sleep or curious about individual sleep needs, this conversation offers valuable insights for everyone.

Explore the modern challenges that disrupt our sleep, from stress and technology to lifestyle choices. Dr. Browning elaborates on how stressors and the addictive nature of social media can impair our sleep patterns. We also touch on the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) and the importance of good sleep hygiene practices. Finally, ponder the allure of ideal living locations and how our environment can influence our sleep quality and overall well-being. Tune in for a comprehensive guide on reclaiming your sleep and enhancing your health.

*****

Dr Browning’s book, “Navigating Sleeplessness”, is a trusted resource that has supported many with their sleep issues and concerns. And as a Chartered Psychologist and Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society, a member of the British Sleep Society and a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Dr Browning offers services and therapy sessions to individuals and companies, but is also a sought-after expert who regularly features on TV and Radio programs across the BBC and other outlets.

This episode is part of our Expert Series, where we speak to experts from a variety of different backgrounds, including Addiction, Mentoring, Eye Surgery, Sales, Communications, 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 on Dr. Lindsay Browing, visit https://troublesleeping.co.uk/

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to https://www.webinarexperts.com or to our Youtube channel  @WebinarExperts  

In this episode, host Lev Cribb is joined by guest Chris Mitchell (Co-Founder of the Customer Success Leaders Institute and Strategic Customer Success Advisor). Chris shares his advice and insights on Customer Success and how creating value is a key component to customer satisfaction.

Chris and Lev draw from 50+ years of combined experience across live digital communications and customer success and share their stories and insights for your benefit.

Watch this episode to find out:
- Is audience loyalty dead?
- Should Customer Success be a company wide approach or a dedicated department?
- How do deliver value for your ideal customers
- How do marketing channels create audience loyalty
- How to deliver WOW moments for your customers
- Why is value the red thread for events?
 
And don't miss out on the "Virtually Anything Goes Question" at the end of the episode when Chris puts Lev on the spot with an unscripted and unexpected question of his own.
 
In the Virtually Anything Goes podcast we talk about live streaming, digital events, webinars, notable trends, best practices, and... well virtually anything else.
 
In future episodes Lev Cribb will be joined by a range of other guest speakers, so subscribe now and don't miss out on any upcoming podcasts.
 
For more content, including the video episodes of this podcast, go to WebinarExperts.com
 
Copyright 2023 Webinar Experts Ltd

Always-on digital audience engagement is the holy grail of digital marketing. Audiences search for and consume content 24/7/365. Companies that don’t provide the opportunity for audiences to engage around the clock risk losing their prospective customers to the competition.

What role does AI play in this? And how do you create a content ecosystem that can serve audiences in this way?  What do you need to consider and what makes this approach successful?

In this episode of the Virtually Anything Goes podcast, host Lev Cribb talks to Kees Henniphof (VP Marketing at Chili Publish) about these questions and more. Having together built ServiceNow’s EMEA Webinar Program as part of an Always-on Campaign and Lead Generation Engine, Kees and Lev discuss how marketing has changed over the past decade and consider what is important in today’s digital marketing strategy.

Also check out our related article “How We Built An Always-On Digital Engagement Ecosystem Centred Around Webinars”: https://www.webinarexperts.com/latest-publications/how-we-built-an-always-on-digital-engagement-ecosystem-centred-around-webinars/  

Find and listen to this episode in audio on your favourite podcast platform. 

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to http://www.webinarexperts.com

Is it possible to plan a webinar program a year in advance? How do you approach annual webinar planning? How do you easily create a webinar schedule?

Host Lev Cribb is joined once more by Andy Ashton (Head of Technology at WebinarExperts.com) to answer these questions and more in this episode of the Virtually Anything Goes podcast.

Lev and Andy lay out an easy-to-follow strategy to get the most from your webinars and save time while you're doing it. Follow these tips and tricks to free up resources for other important marketing activity.

Also check out our FREE GUIDE for more info at https://www.webinarexperts.com/latest-publications/ultimate-guide-to-annual-webinar-schedule-planning/

Find and listen to this episode in audio on your favourite podcast platform. 

For more information, content, and podcast episodes go to http://www.webinarexperts.com