“Play is more than an activity; it is a feeling.” In today's episode we are joined by special guests Adam Lusby and Dr Maarten Koeners. Both experts and advocates of the transformative power of play, the conversation illustrates how playfulness can be used to create ‘prosocial environments’, be that in classrooms, competitive sports or the workplace. We discuss the crucial link between play and social connection, the transformative effects of incorporating play into educational and professional settings, and the importance of embracing a playful approach for resilience and engagement. Adam has spent the past decade dedicated to exploring the intersections of innovation, technology, and the idea of a regenerative circular economy. He enjoys creating engaging workshops that challenge participants to acquire and apply new knowledge through hands-on experiences. Maarten has a PhD in medical biology and is passionate about strengthening the link between learning and joy through integrating insights from design thinking and the neuroscience of play into learning experiences.Join us as we uncover the science and practical applications of play, and learn how to infuse our lives with more joy, connection, and bouncebackability.In this episode:05:56 Play is essential for complex social connections in all mammals, especially humans.06:57 Culture and interaction; social beings need genuine connections to avoid loneliness in non-social spaces.18:54 How to make your space more social and playful, regardless of its challenges.22:54 Why flexible, prosocial environments foster better resilience and improved creativity. 37:49 Resistance to change will hold organisations back and dampen innovation.57:19 How scheduling time for daydreaming may improve your productivity.Connect with our guests here:Dr Maarten KoenersAdam LusbyPlease like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Today we speak to former professional rugby player, Rich Bryan. Having experienced the highs and lows of professional rugby (including having Rusty as a teammate at Bath), Rich’s playing career was ended by a difficult knee injury at the age of 30, resulting in a challenging career change that would test his resilience and mental well-being.In 2011 Rich joined the Rugby Players Association (RPA) - the representative body and trade union for current and former elite male and female rugby players in England, and for the past 10 years he has held the position of Player Welfare Director. As well as advising members on legal issues, he also leads numerous player welfare-related programmes across a broad range of issues including head injuries, agents, insurance and mental well-being support.   Rich shares his journey with us, and the wisdom he has gained through setbacks faced during his career, which he now uses in his work to advise and support within the professional ruby world.In this episode:08:26 Struggles with identity, on and off the pitch.41:15 Reflecting on the challenges that come with transitions from professional sports. 47:24 Facing new experiences, and navigating uncertainty with teamwork.58:27 Importance of leadership in creating a positive environment.01:02:04 The importance of strong support and resilience during transition. You can connect with Rich Bryan here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-bryan-5a759412Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Today we speak to Luke Doherty, Managing Director at Mindful Peak Performance. Having trained as an elite rugby player and capped for England under-18s, Luke’s passion for marrying elite performance and mindfulness has now developed into the wellness space with mind-blowing results. Achieving advanced-level mindfulness training qualifications from Breathworks and the Oxford University Mindfulness Centre, he’s since been dedicated to creating and delivering bespoke mindfulness programmes for some of the UK's leading athletes and forward-thinking executives. He’s also the creator of a unique youth support network, bringing together boxing and mindfulness to engage and ignite disadvantaged young people, the results of which have been phenomenal.Join us as we explore how Luke is challenging the traditional contexts around mindfulness; the questions around qualitative data vs storytelling and the shift in organisations' readiness to adopt mindfulness due to its impact on productivity and team resilience.In this episode:04:30 Luke's journey - from training with Buddhists to delivering for execs in London. 07:49 Questioning the classroom setting – how conformity and environment impact on young people’s behaviour.13:46 Positive impact of mindfulness on emotional clarity, personal experience, and individualised approach to definition.20:27 Mastering mindfulness - being aware of thoughts, not engaging in them and choosing perspective.24:02 The mind-muscle - how training the mind through meditation builds mental resilience and enables a better response to stress.27:57 Boxing mindfulness training for youth workers and coaches across different communities. Embracing diversity and maintaining a clear structure.31:58 Getting good at deep work and its relevance to leadership and productivity. You can connect with Luke Doherty here:linkedin.com/in/luke-doherty-mindful-peak-performancemindfulpeakperformance.com  Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Today on the Bouncebackability Podcast we speak to James Rutter, Chief Creative Officer at a pioneering frozen food company COOK. James joined COOK in 2010 after 15 years as a financial journalist and editor. He now oversees internal and external branding and communications across the organisation. COOK is a founding UK B Corp, committed to using its business as a force for good in society and has been ranked in the ‘Top 100 Best Companies To Work For’ every year since 2013.Today’s episode explores how they have earned that accolade by shining a light on the significance of community resilience and the role businesses must play in contributing to the well-being of the communities they operate in. We discussed the virtuous cycle of businesses supporting resilient communities and the positive impact this has on both the business and the community.In this episode:04:58 Thriving shops build resilient, community-based economies.08:31 Relationships are crucial for organisational success.15:56 Four-day week boosts productivity and connections.20:23 Empower elders in the evolving workplace environment.44:01 Incredible stories of support and personal growth.47:44 Encouraging radical transparency and openness at work.51:25 Focusing on gatherings for more energy.You can connect with James Rutter here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-rutter-8972079/Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Today on the Bouncebackability Podcast, Simon and Rusty reflect on the first series, sharing insights from their conversations with some amazing and truly insightful guests. Learn about defining resilience, the impact of toxic environments, the significance of language in shaping our attitudes towards challenges or setbacks and loads more. Join us as we explore these key themes and how they’ve influenced their own thinking as leaders.On our guest list:Becoming Britain’s first female NFL coach with Phoebe Schecter | Episode 2Thriving as a 4-day week business with Myke Parrott | Episode 3Embracing Emotional Fitness in the workplace with Dr Suzanne Brown | Episode 4Innovation and creative problem-solving with Google’s Kirk Vallis | Episode 5Overcoming setbacks to achieve dreams with Military Commander Justin Reuter | Episode 6Shaping an Environment of Resilience with Prof. Mustafa Sarkar | Episode 7The Power of Storytelling: connecting, healing, and transforming lives with Clare Murphy | Episode 8Building resilience and cultivating effective coaching environments with John Fletcher | Episode 9 In this episode:03:43 Having clarity in language and understanding how resilience can be different for people at different times. 07:06 Supportive environment and individual preferences in workplace - why it's so important.11:12 Why we need to focus on environmental resilience for organizational benefits.15:46 Sharing stories about challenges and failures can make people feel less alone and empower them to learn and grow.16:30 Humans fear failure, unlike animals.22:09 Themes: storytelling, connection, culture, belonging, knowledge-sharing.25:28 How Justin overcomes adversity with help from mentors.29:14 Balancing challenge and support for leaders' development.31:52 Sharing insights on stress management.Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Today on the Bouncebackability Podcast, we speak to John Fletcher, Head of Pathway and Elite Coach Development at Scottish Rugby. John has not found himself in this position by accident. With 10 years heading up England Rugby’s pathway, experiencing the position of Director and Rugby as well as founding The Magic Academy coaching development organisation, John knows a thing or two about the sport.His passion for rugby stemmed from his experience of playing and coaching younger players, and his 3 sons can vouch for this! When he’s not on the pitch you’ll find him with his wife, children and dog, AKA the Fletcher tribe.Listen to find out how his passion for making a difference through being different has led him to what he calls his destiny in life.In this episode:00:00 How reflecting on formative experiences can shape the future outlook of your team.10:53 How does self-care fit into resilience? Can you be resilient alone or do you need others?13:20 Health scares and their impact on life – how a harmful virus led to Fletch to re-think his priorities27:42 New (more flexible) perspectives on building self-purpose, understand our surroundings, and allowing failure.35:06 Becoming emotionally aware - crying doesn't always mean someone is sad.39:51 Bringing the fun - can a more playful approach to resilience bring better results.  You can connect with John Fletcher here:X: @fletcherrugbyPlease like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Today on the Bouncebackability Podcast, we speak to the international speaker and storyteller, Clare Murphy. Clare has an impressive CV. Not only is she the Director of Story at the Mission Critical Institute in the USA, she’s also a consultant and trainer for worldwide organisation, such as the National Theatre, The Royal Shakespeare Company, BLESMA Limbless Veterans, and University of Bristol. Clare has performed in over 20 countries with the former president of Ireland, Mary Robinson and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory among the notable guests in her audience.In this episode, she shares her experience of storytelling as a medium that extends beyond the personal experience. Clare explains the crucial role it plays in creating connection and fostering a sense of belonging in teams and organisations. From the legacy built by coaches like Alex Ferguson to the profound physiological and neurological impacts on doctors and nurses, storytelling reinforces culture, builds connections, and provides the much-needed space for reflection and processing.Join us for this thought-provoking episode, sharing unique perspectives on the power of stories to bring positive change. In this episode:09:57 Storytelling and culture in organisations – how we can share the legacy in a meaningful way through storytelling.18:50 The Rishi Network – established by Dr. Rachel Reman to combat isolation and depression in medical professionals and the importance of addressing the emotional impact of extreme situations.20:17 The DRIVE project - storytelling to train veterans with various injuries, including limb loss to share their life before and after the incident. 23:28 The impact and importance of personal experiences over measuring output efficiency - has social media created a disconnect?28:57 Storytelling as transformation - helping people overcome trauma, heal from past experiences and even alleviate pain through sharing their story.45:09 Digital excess - how information overload is affecting our emotional processing response and how stories are the antidote.57:55 Storytelling as an emotional gym – the impact of telling stories as a collaborative experience can build resilience. You can connect with Clare here:www.claremurphy.org Instagram: Clare Murphy (@storyclare)LinkedIn: Clare Murphy | LinkedInPlease like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

In today’s episode of the Bouncebackability Podcast, we have the pleasure of talking to Associate Professor of Sport and Performance Psychology, Dr Mustafa Sarkar. Join us as we take a deep-dive into the parallels and learning opportunities that come from elite sport, with special focus on how the environment shapes the performance and resilience of team productivity and mindset. Mustafa shares his own experience and some fantastic real-life examples highlighting the importance of defining resilience within organisations; the symbiosis between performance and well-being, and the benefits that come from re-framing the way we view pressure and developing a healthy challenge mindset.Mustafa is a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society. He works closely with teams and organisations to create environments and cultures that develop resilience and psychological safety. His impressive client list includes Google, the Premier League, the English Football Association and numerous international Olympic Committees.Enjoy the show!In this episode:[00:07:13] Changing the mindset - should we re-frame resilience as how we handle pressure and is it important to be challenged?[00:18:31] How creating a positive and comfortable environment can foster an open and honest conversation within teams and individuals.[00:20:51] Changing a culture takes time and buy-in. Proactive development leads to resilience. [00:37:21] Has resilience lost its meaning? The importance of defining resilience in organisations.[00:41:05] Why balancing performance and well-being is essential for individual and organisational growth. You can connect with Mustafa here:LinkedIn:Dr Mustafa Sarkar | LinkedInTwitter: @MusSarkarNottingham Trent University Profile Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

In this episode of the Bouncebackability Podcast with Simon and Rusty, we welcome an incredible guest – a senior defense consultant and Tornado F3 fighter pilot, Justin Reuter. Drawing on his own personal journey as a military weapons instructor (think the UK’s equivalent of ‘Top Gun’) and Commander of the UK Air Forces in the Middle East, Justin shares his insights on how civilians can adopt military techniques to aid bounce back from setbacks and develop resilience within their organisations and teams.He talks to us about the importance of mentors and how brutal honesty from all ranks in his team have benefited his own growth; how he has applied the concept of funnels and delegation to optimise leadership roles of corporates across the UK, and the effect environment can have on the outlook of your team. We also dive into the military's approach to planning, debriefing, and reassessment, and how businesses can incorporate these strategies to become more productive and resilient. Justin's wealth of knowledge and practical examples provide invaluable lessons for leaders in any field. Get ready to gain valuable insights on building resilience and creating a culture of challenge within your teams. Let's dive in!In this episode:[00:03:18] Resilience - Overcoming setbacks to achieve dreams.[00:08:14] Military training methods – building strong teams and the importance of trust between team members.[00:18:25] Maintaining composure in face of challenges – the complexities of managing the Afghanistan base. [00:38:09] Justin's lessons on delegation, broadening horizons and the impact of good leaders.You can connect with Justin here:LinkedIn:Justin Reuter | LinkedInPlease like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Welcome back to the Bouncebackability Podcast with Simon Ursell and Rusty Earnshaw. Today we are joined by a very special guest, Kirk Vallis, Global Head of creative Capability Development at Google. We delve into some fascinating topics, including - the intersection of AI and creativity; the power of experimentation as a catalyst for safer and more ambitious goals, and the concept of Ten X thinking.Kirk has spent the last 11 years at Google, developing innovation frameworks, but more importantly, helping colleagues navigate the right behaviours, mindset and techniques to unlock fresh thinking.He consults and speaks for organisations around the world, recently working with organisations such as Adidas, Mastercard and Fidelity. Kirk is a proud ambassador for Moving Ahead and the 30% Club, driving greater diversity and inclusion at all levels within top companies.If you’re interested in using creative problem-solving to out-think your competitors and elevate your organisation, this episode is for you.[00:04:49] AI and creativity - can it surpass humans in its ability to be creative?[00:15:34] Experimentation breeds safer and more ambitious goals. [00:21:58] Learning from mistakes, Ten X thinking, resilience and importance of spirit and mindset. [00:27:38] The importance of reflection, signposting, and external perspectives.[00:48:34] Embracing failure playfully; it upgrades human resilience. You can connect with Kirk here:LinkedIn: Kirk Vallis | LinkedInPlease like, subscribe or follow so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

In this episode, Simon and Rusty welcome their special guest Suzanne Brown to share her insights and experiences around emotional fitness within the workplace. Suzanne emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of psychological safety, both within oneself and in relationships with others. Together they discuss the impact of providing emotional fitness classes to employees and the lasting effects they have on individuals, resulting in increased productivity and lower rates of sick leave across organisations. The conversation also delves into topics such as resilience, coping strategies, and the importance of personal growth.Suzanne explores the concept of institutional transference and challenges conventional practices of employee retention, suggesting a shift towards alignment with values and individual needs of both the employer and employee. Suzanne is a Clinical Psychologist, Emotional Fitness Consultant, and the brilliant mind behind Emotionally Connected, a specialized psychology consultancy merging clinical psychology with elite performance. Her innovative approach empowers us to actively address our mental health through immersive and captivating methods.In this episode:[04:35] Screening Organizations and Individuals: aligning motivation and agenda.[09:12] Addressing Resistance: the different approaches, including confrontation and alternatives to help individuals make their own choices.[15:20] The Concept of Resilience: The nuanced concept of resilience and how it often involves facing hardship.[22:05] Emotional Fitness and the Ripple Effect: the emotional fitness sessions and their profound impact on individuals and relationships.[30:40] Psychological Safety in Organizations: the importance of psychological safety in organizations, enabling individuals to be themselves, offer ideas, and learn from failure.You can connect with Suzanne here:Twitter: https://twitter.com/drsuzebrown  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emotionallyconnected/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsuzannebrown/  Website: https://www.emotionallyconnected.co.uk/  Please like, subscribe or follow so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Myke Parrott is the Founder of I-Gem Associates – an ambitious and innovative recruitment company with expertise within the gaming and data science & engineering industries. He has over 15 years of recruitment experience and has always been passionate about developing people and creating great opportunities for them. Over 18 months ago, Myke’s company adopted a 4-day working week with positive results on both team performance and their happiness and emotional health. Join us as we discuss ‘why a 4-day week’ and the importance of confronting the boundaries of normality.  In this episode:[00:04:21] Implementing a Four-Day Work Week: Lessons Learned[00:07:41] Team Sceptical About 4-Day Work Week: Perspective Shifts[00:14:41] Productivity Boost: 4-day Workweek Yields Results[00:22:10] The Challenge of a Four-Day Work Week[00:25:12] Maximizing Time: Letting Go of Unnecessary Tasks[00:30:58] Empowering Team Members with Flexible Work Schedules[00:35:55] The Importance of Navigating Challenges as Leaders More about our guest - Myke Parrott is CEO of i-Gem, the holding company for GameLogic and DataLogic. You can connect with him via:www.linkedin.com/in/myke-parrott-58b5561b/  https://www.instagram.com/mykep85  https://twitter.com/mykep85  Please like, subscribe or follow so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

Phoebe Schecter is pioneering the world of American Football, having empowered women in sport by becoming the first British female coach in the NFL. Her bounceback moment was taking a complete 180 away from her comfort zone and moving to the UK. Despite her initial lack of interest in American Football, she seized an opportunity to push her limits and face imposter syndrome head-on. Join us as we discuss the nitty-gritty of being a woman in a male-dominated industry and explore Phoebe’s inspiring journey.  In this episode:[00:03:35] Building Confidence as a Coach: From Youth teams to NFL[00:08:49] The Struggle of Winning in Elite Sports[00:11:11] Overcoming Doubt and Building Confidence[00:20:27] Don't Let Toxic Environments Hinder Your Growth[00:24:19] Rookie coaching challenges: A Head Coach's Perspective[00:29:37] Embrace Your Flaws and Believe in Yourself[00:35:47] The Importance of Independence and Strength[00:39:08] Mastering Bounce Back Ability: Expert Tips Please like, subscribe or follow so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:   https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/ You can connect with Phoebe here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/phoebe-schecter-195626142/https://www.instagram.com/phoebe_schecterhttps://twitter.com/Phoebe_Schecter

Welcome to the first episode of the Bouncebackability podcast! Fasten your seat belts, we’re in for a bouncy ride. In this episode, Rusty and Simon share their motivation behind setting up the pod and its aim to provide genuine insight, as well as ideas how we can navigate unknown territories and the potential to use these experiences to thrive, not just survive, during challenging times.  Simon and Rusty give a glimpse into the impressive guest list and share some of their own experiences that have formed the work they do now. If you are interested in confronting the boundaries of normality and equipping yourself with new perspectives, this podcast is for you. Please like, subscribe and follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/