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Mike McCartney opens the door to his extraordinary life with warmth, humor, and profound insight in this captivating conversation. The renowned photographer, musician, and cultural storyteller shares intimate tales of growing up in post-war Liverpool, revealing how losing his mother at age twelve pushed him toward creativity as both salvation and expression.

With classic Liverpudlian wit, Mike recounts discovering photography through a failed attempt to capture "giant seagulls" with the family box camera, leading to a self-taught journey that would eventually see his work acquired by the National Portrait Gallery. Parallel to this, we hear the origin story of The Scaffold and their hit "Thank You Very Much," which became an unexpected royal favorite (though the Queen Mother might have misheard a Liverpool FC reference as a tribute to herself).

Between laughter and occasional moments of raw emotion, Mike illuminates the cultural revolution of the 1960s, describing how art confronted class divisions and opened minds. His stories meander through chance encounters with figures like Marlon Brando, Salvador Dalí's surrealist influence, and pivotal moments that altered his trajectory—including breaking his arm, which led to his brother Paul taking over his drum kit.

The conversation deepens as Mike reflects on legacy, suggesting that bringing joy to others through creative work may be our most meaningful contribution. His philosophy emerges: seek what you love, embrace serendipity, and never underestimate the power of gentle subversion—like hiding anti-war sentiment in a cheerful pop song that reached number four in the charts.

Discover the remarkable story behind the man who documented a generation while helping shape its soundtrack. Mike's upcoming limited edition photography book "Mike McCartney's Early Liverpool" and the Scaffold box set releasing in April promise to further preserve this vital cultural legacy.

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: chris@secondcurve.uk
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

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From boarding school trauma to embodying one of fiction's greatest detectives, Michael Maloney's theatrical journey reveals how life's most difficult experiences often forge our greatest strengths. The acclaimed British Actor joins us from his dressing room in Birmingham—fresh from celebrating his 100th performance as Hercule Poirot in the touring production of Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express"

With disarming honesty, Michael explores how being sent away from home at age 7 permanently altered his sense of belonging. "You cease to become a member of a family immediately," he reflects, describing how this early separation forced him into premature self-sufficiency while creating emotional wounds he would later need to address. This experience, along with his Roman Catholic upbringing, established complex foundations that would eventually serve his acting career in unexpected ways.

The conversation shifts to his transformative years at the Royal Shakespeare Company, where Michael found himself amidst theatrical royalty—Derek Jacobi, Michael Gambon, Helen Mirren, and a young Mark Rylance. Their anarchic creativity, set against the backdrop of early 80s punk and new wave, shaped his understanding of classical discipline and theatrical expression. "We were all over the shop," he laughs, "and enjoying ourselves."

Michael's reflections on the power of the spoken word reveal his deep appreciation for poetry and heightened language. He shares how sports provides a perfect metaphor for performance: some nights you win, some you lose, some you draw—but you always return to play again. This philosophy has helped him navigate the highs and lows of theatrical reviews throughout his career.

Now at 67, finding himself unexpectedly cast as Poirot, Michael approaches each performance with the discipline earned through decades of classical training. When asked about his legacy, his answer is characteristically straightforward: "A proper actor... of significance and stature." Join us for this intimate conversation with a performer who has continuously found new ways to transform life's challenges into art.

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: chris@secondcurve.uk
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

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Charlie Mullins, founder of Pimlico Plumbers and now chairman of We Fix London, shares his extraordinary journey from council estate kid to selling his plumbing empire for £140 million and starting again with a new venture.

What happens when a working-class kid with no qualifications sells a plumbing empire for £140 million, then decides to start all over again? Charlie Mullins, the unmistakable founder of Pimlico Plumbers (often compared to Rod Stewart), takes us on an exhilarating journey through his remarkable life story - from council estate beginnings to entrepreneurial legend.

Charlie's story begins with a chance encounter that changed everything. As a young boy growing up in a rough London neighborhood, he met Bill Ellis - a local plumber with a car, motorbike, nice clothes, and money. That moment planted the seed for what would become a lifelong passion. "Where I am today is due to one guy just explaining to me what he does and how he makes his money," Charlie reflects. This early inspiration shows how powerful visible role models can be for young people seeking a path forward.

Despite leaving school at 15 with no qualifications, Charlie built Pimlico Plumbers into London's most recognized service company before selling it for £140 million. But rather than retiring to Marbella, his entrepreneurial spirit couldn't be contained. After a three-year non-compete clause expired, he launched We Fix London in October 2024, determined to outdo his former company with the personal touch and family feel he believes has been lost under corporate ownership. As Charlie puts it with his characteristic directness: "It's all about the relationship, stupid!" His "bish bash bosh" approach prioritizes transparency, quality, and personal service in a world increasingly dominated by automation and AI.

Charlie's refreshing philosophy challenges conventional wisdom about success. "You don't need brains to be successful," he insists, championing qualities like drive, enthusiasm, and work ethic instead. His passionate advocacy for apprenticeships and trades offers an alternative narrative to university education: "Get an apprenticeship with a trade, you'll never be out of work and you'll earn loads of money." Ready to fix your future? Charlie Mullins shows it's never too late to rise like a phoenix and build something extraordinary.

• How growing up on a council estate motivated Charlie to work hard and create a different life
• Boxing as a formative experience that taught discipline and resilience
• The value of apprenticeships and trades as pathways to success without academic qualifications
• Charlie's philosophy that "a man who never made a mistake never made nothing"

If you'd like advice from Charlie about starting or growing a business, reach out through his website or social

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: chris@secondcurve.uk
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

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Welcome to the enchanting world of 'Legacy Life Reflections' a storytelling sanctuary unlike any Podcast you've encountered before! Your Host, Motivational Comedian Chris Grimes has crafted a unique narrative journey—one that begins in your personal "Clearing," that special place where mental clutter falls away and inspiration flows freely.

The magic of this format lies in its thoughtful structure. Picture a tree appearing in your clearing—your tree—which Chris will gently shake to discover which storytelling "apples" naturally fall. Through the "5-4-3-2-1" framework, you'll explore four influences that shaped you, three sources of inspiration, two irresistible distractions (your "squirrels"), and one quirky fact nobody could possibly know until you share it. This structured yet flexible approach creates the perfect balance between guidance and discovery.

As your journey continues, you'll explore moments of personal "alchemy and gold"—times when purpose and flow aligned to create your happiest experiences. You'll receive a celebratory cake (yes, an actual cake gets sent to guests!), and place a metaphorical cherry on top through sharing inspirational quotes and advice you'd offer to your younger self. The experience culminates with reflections on legacy, borrowing from Shakespeare's wisdom that "all the world's a stage," to contemplate how you'd most like to be remembered. Before departing this storytelling landscape, you'll "pass the golden baton" to someone else whose story deserves this same thoughtful exploration.

Whether you're a potential guest or an avid listener, Legacy Life Reflections offers a refreshingly meaningful alternative to standard interview formats. Subscribe now to experience storytelling that transforms personal narratives into lasting legacies and discover what stories might fall when your own tree is shaken.

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: chris@secondcurve.uk
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

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What shapes a Global Marketing Leader's perspective? For Antonia Wade, PwC's Global Chief Marketing Officer and Marketing Week's Marketeer of the Year, Leadership Excellence stems from finding balance between professional ambition and personal fulfillment.

Sitting in her study – her physical "Clearing" amid family life with two teenagers, a husband, and a dog named Biscuit – Antonia reflects on the formative experiences that built her leadership philosophy. Her journey from Architecture student to being Global Head of Marketing at PwC wasn't straightforward, but architectural thinking gave her the perfect foundation: balancing creativity with pragmatism while solving complex problems.

The conversation explores how Antonia manages a Worldwide Team across time-zones without sacrificing her own boundaries. "If I'm emailing at the weekend, even if I don't intend for people to respond, they feel like they have to," she explains, highlighting how leadership behaviors unconsciously shape team culture. This awareness permeates her approach – protecting weekends, making time for cooking (her delightful "squirrel" distraction), and prioritizing family.

At the heart of Antonia's Leadership perspective is a powerful guiding principle: "You are where you are today because of the decisions you made 5 years ago." This insight helps her evaluate current choices with future impact in mind while giving her team a framework for intentional career development. She complements this with advice from a former mentor: focus on "the things that only you can do" rather than trying to be everything to everyone.

Beyond her professional insights, we discover Antonia's near-win in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Award, her love of reading a novel weekly, and how she wrote her book "Transforming the B2B Buyer Journey" during gardening leave and airport layovers. Her parting advice embodies her leadership philosophy: "Be curious but also be bold and ambitious. You might as well push for the things you want – you certainly don't get what you want if you don't ask for it."

Antonia Wade, Global Chief Marketing Officer at PwC and Marketing Week's Marketeer of the Year, shares her leadership journey and personal philosophy for maintaining balance in a demanding global role.

• Finding your "clearing" - both physical and mental spaces for reflection and rejuvenation
• How studying architecture created a foundation for balancing creativity and pragmatism in marketing
• The importance of setting boundaries with work communications to model healthy behavior for your team
• Making decisions today with awareness of their impact on your life five years from now
• Focusing on "what only you can do" rather than trying to be everything to everyone
• Finding inspiration through global travel,

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: chris@secondcurve.uk
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

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Ben Akers never expected to become a Mental Health advocate. But when his childhood best friend Steve died by suicide 10 ago, everything changed. Confronted with the staggering reality that suicide is the biggest killer of men, Akers channeled his grief and advertising background into creating 'Talk Club' – a revolutionary approach to men's mental fitness that's now saving lives across the UK and beyond.

At the heart of Talk Club's genius is stunning simplicity: "How are you? Out of 10?" This numerical scale gives men a framework to express their emotional state without struggling with what Akers calls "the foreign language of feelings." Where men typically respond with a reflexive "I'm fine," the number system creates an opening for honesty. "If you're a higher number and regularly a higher number," Akers explains, "you're mentally fit, you're mentally strong, and you're good for everyone around you."

From its first meeting at Bristol Beer Factory in April 2019, Talk Club has expanded to 120+ venues nationwide with over 5,000 members. The organization has formed strategic partnerships, including creating Clearhead non-alcoholic beer, allowing men to gather in comfortable spaces without alcohol's potential mental health impacts. Every aspect of Talk Club reflects Akers' design philosophy: make it accessible, remove barriers, and speak directly to men as they are.

The movement reframes mental health conversations through the lens of fitness rather than illness. Just as we congratulate someone for going to the gym, Akers wants mental health maintenance celebrated rather than questioned. He applies his personal philosophy – "Does it make you better?" – to every decision, encouraging men to evaluate relationships, work, and habits through this simple yet profound lens.

Whether you're struggling personally, concerned about someone in your life, or simply interested in supporting mental fitness, visit talkclub.org today. As Akers proves through his work, sometimes the smallest questions can save the biggest lives.

Find out more at talkclub.org or email hello@talkclub.org to get involved, donate, or start your own Talk Club.

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: chris@secondcurve.uk
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

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Donna Kunde, a true polymath and the force behind Influence Radio Network, joins us to share her incredible journey of empowering voices through podcasts, books, and TV talk shows. Discover how Donna has navigated life’s unexpected twists, from snowy adventures in Virginia to life-altering encounters that set her path ablaze with purpose. Her innovative podcasting methods, such as leveraging global networks, offer fresh insights into reaching and influencing a worldwide audience without traditional reliance on ads. This episode promises a wealth of knowledge on creating lasting legacies through storytelling.

Listeners will be captivated by Donna's reflections on pivotal life moments, including her disciplined and musical journey in the United States Army. A gifted clarinet from a mentor sparked a lifelong passion, illustrating the profound impact of small, meaningful gestures and the belief others place in our potential. As we explore these transformative experiences, Donna shares her insights into borrowed belief and how it has guided her path, inviting us to consider the moments and people who shape our own narratives.

In our conversation, Donna also dives into the timeless wisdom of historical thinkers and the refreshing perspectives of Gen Z and millennials, revealing how these insights can inspire intentional living. The episode concludes with a poetic nod to the everyday miracles that fuel creativity, from the allure of platforms like AppSumo to the historical charm of Colonial Williamsburg. Donna’s favorite Thoreau quote serves as a guiding light, reminding us to pursue our dreams with confidence. Be sure to listen in and be inspired to embrace your own hero’s journey, and don't forget to subscribe for more stories that spark change.

We explore the profound impact of storytelling on leadership and creativity with Donna Kunde, who highlights how her experiences have shaped her mission to help others amplify their voices. The episode emphasises the interconnectedness of individual narratives and their potential to inspire global change.
• Discusses the role of storytelling in creating a legacy
• Explains the vision behind the Influence Radio Network
• Highlights personal experiences that shaped Donna's journey
• Explores the significance of mentorship and influence
• Encourages embracing vulnerability to connect with listeners
• Underscores the importance of sharing personal narratives for community building
• Offers practical tips for aspiring podcasters
• Calls for individuals to take ownership of their stories

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: chris@secondcurve.uk
• Twitter thatchrisgrimes
• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-grimes-actor-broadcaster-facilitator-coach/
• FaceBook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/842056403204860

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Join me for a captivating conversation with the legendary John Altman, a true giant in the world of music. From crafting the unforgettable tunes of Monty Python to sharing stages with icons like Jimi Hendrix and Bob Marley, John's career is a testament to the power of serendipity and talent. We explore his unexpected journey, filled with fascinating stories and memorable encounters, including his humorous connection with the soap opera star of the same name. Prepare to be enthralled by tales of collaborations with Fleetwood Mac, Van Morrison, and Amy Winehouse.

We even get to play out the episode with "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life!" which John arranged with Eric Idle for Monthy Python's "Life of Brian"

Our musical voyage takes a nostalgic turn as we reminisce about extraordinary moments with legends like Danny Kaye and Frank Sinatra. John's anecdotes paint a vivid picture of the boisterous nights spent with these entertainment titans, and we touch on his work with Harold Nicholas during the filming of "Funny Bones." With a nod to the improvisational spirit of jazz, we delve into John's transition from saxophonist to arranger for acts like Monty Python and Hot Chocolate, capturing the whimsical and unpredictable nature of his career.

In our reflections, we uncover John's love for sponge cake, classical Greek quotes, and his experiences conducting the Royal Philharmonic. He shares invaluable lessons about the importance of seizing opportunities and saying "yes" to life's surprises. As we discuss his legacy and the lasting impact of chance encounters, we celebrate John's ability to weave music and memories into a rich tapestry of creativity, leaving us inspired by a life dedicated to the art of sound.

John Altman shares his extraordinary journey in the music industry, reflecting on his collaborations with iconic artists, including Monty Python and Frank Sinatra. The conversation delves into his creative process, inspirations, and the importance of storytelling through music, all underscoring Altman’s legendary status as a musician and arranger.

• Insights into John Altman's musical upbringing and inspirations
• Behind-the-scenes stories of arranging Monty Python’s music
• Discussion on the spontaneity and adaptability in jazz and composition
• Personal anecdotes featuring notable figures in Altman’s career
• Reflections on legacy, collaboration, and life lessons learned
• Altman’s emphasis on creativity and its universal appeal

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: chris@secondcurve.uk
• 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!