In the first episode of the new year, I sit down with Tim Barnden to unpack anxiety in today’s world - from politics and social change to identity, work, and purpose.
Tim reflects on his career in immigration law and how it’s shaped his view of society, justice, and nuance. The conversation moves through coming out, workplace diversity, and the emotional weight of navigating identity in professional spaces, before landing on Tim’s creative passions for radio, music, and coffee culture.
Warm, reflective, and quietly powerful, this episode is about staying connected to who you are - especially in a world that feels increasingly loud, divided, and anxious.
Take a listen to Tim's Radio Show 'Captain T's Fantastic Voyage' on Totally Wired Radio.
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In this episode of ChatterBeans, I sat with musician and freelancer Lydia Walquist for an open and inspiring conversation about identity, creativity, and finding your voice in the world of classical music.
Lydia shares her journey from studying at the Royal Academy of Music to carving out her own freelance career - a path filled with flexibility, challenges, and self-initiative. She dives into her experiences with cultural identity, family dynamics, and growing up in a religious environment, and how all of this has shaped her personal and artistic evolution.
From learning Cantonese to exploring innovative concert formats, Lydia reflects on community, collaboration, and the lessons she's learned along the way. Whether you're into music, self-growth, or personal stories that stay with you, this episode is full of warmth, reflection, and creative insight.
Connect with Lyida on Instagram.
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This week, I'm chatting to comedian, TV creative and host of the Don't Just Stand There Pod, Paul Moore for an honest, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt conversation about the changing landscape of UK television, the realities of freelancing, and the power of staying authentic.
Paul opens up about navigating the comedy scene in a world shaped by social media, the importance of queer clubs as community hubs, and how personal growth often comes from unlearning old habits. He also shares his approach to relationships, why kindness matters, and the joy he finds in simple everyday moments.
From industry insights to big laughs and reflective life lessons, this episode is a warm and deeply relatable journey through creativity, identity, and connection - capped off with a lively quick-fire round.
Connect with Paul on Instagram.
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In this week's episode, I'm joined by Vnisha - a DJ, coach, and creative powerhouse, where we explore her evolution from being a devoted Belieber to becoming a voice of authenticity and self-growth. Together, we dive into the pressures of fame, the journey of Justin Bieber’s transformation, and the importance of slowing down and finding your tribe. She opens up about her path into DJing and coaching, her collaboration with Nike, and how music and mindfulness shaped her sense of purpose.
✨ Topics include:
Fame, identity & Justin Bieber’s evolution
Navigating mental health & the pressure of social media
DJing as a creative outlet
Relationships, boundaries & finding your tribe
Coaching, purpose & Venetia’s Nike collaboration
Slowing down, surrendering & self-growth
Connect with Vnisha on Instagram.
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Today, I'm joined by Darrian Geoghegan - fitness instructor, diversity consultant, and host of Switching the Code. Darrian opens up about his journey from corporate project management to fitness, navigating bullying, mental health struggles, and the power of therapy and community.
🎙 Topics include:
Transitioning careers with purpose
Overcoming bullying and mental health challenges
Building inclusive communities through fitness
The power of authenticity and representation
Connect with Darrian on Instagram.
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This week on ChatterBeans, I'm sitting down with James Ingham - a former showbiz journalist turned coach and traveller - to talk about purpose, growth, and unlearning everything you thought you knew about yourself.
From chasing the sun and finding freedom through travel, to redefining success, ageing with confidence, and learning to trust your instincts, James opens up about the lessons that shaped him. It’s a powerful reminder that life isn’t about having it all figured out - it’s about experiencing, growing, and inspiring others along the way.
Listen now to hear a conversation about self-discovery, courage, and why it’s perfectly okay to admit… we’re all just winging it.
Connect with James on Instagram.
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This week I'm joined by Rachel Aitken - a mum, radio presenter, and host of The Crossroad Pod, about her journey from the corporate world to following her dream of becoming a full-time presenter.
Rachel shares how motherhood reignited her ambition, how she manages imposter syndrome, and why storytelling is at the heart of everything she does. From finding purpose in radio to balancing career and family life, Rachel opens up about what it means to chase your dreams while staying true to yourself.
💬 Topics: presenting, podcasting, motherhood, personal growth, imposter syndrome, radio, career change, family life, inspiration, storytelling.
Key takeaways:
Motherhood inspired Rachel to chase her dream career.
Imposter syndrome is part of the creative journey.
Radio brings joy, purpose, and connection.
The importance of storytelling and self-belief.
Balancing family and ambition with honesty and heart.
Connect with Rachel on Instagram and tune into her podcast, The Crossroad Pod.
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I'm sitting down with leadership coach Dr Albert Viljoen, whose journey from practicing medicine in South Africa to guiding leaders in the UK is both deeply personal and powerfully reflective.
Together, we explore how AI is reshaping health, work, and identity, and why maintaining human connection is more important than ever in a digital world. Albert opens up about cultural transitions, self-acceptance as a gay man, and how body psychotherapy has helped him integrate emotional and physical awareness in his own growth - and in his coaching practice.
This thoughtful conversation touches on leadership, therapy, relationships, and the evolving dynamics of the workplace, offering insight into what it truly means to lead - and to live - with authenticity.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction and Background
02:38 - Transition from Medicine to Coaching
05:20 - The Impact of AI on Health and Work
06:19 - Cultural Reflections on South Africa
09:00 - Long-Term Goals and Ambitions
12:01 - The Human Element in Leadership
15:05 - Post-COVID Work Dynamics
18:39 - Personal Life and Interests
22:09 - Navigating Identity and Relationships
34:23 - Life Lessons and Body Psychotherapy
Link with Albert and his work at Be Fully Human
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This week, I'm chatting with Abi Wynn-Jones, an adaptive CrossFit athlete and fierce advocate for inclusivity in sports. Abi opens up about her journey living with a connective tissue disorder, the setbacks she’s faced, and how she’s turned every challenge into strength.
From competing in adaptive CrossFit to pushing for better representation of disabled athletes, Abi’s story is one of resilience, courage, and relentless determination. She shares how COVID-19 changed her approach to fitness, the importance of finding the right coach, and why she believes sports should be accessible to everyone - no matter their ability.
Chapters
00:00 - Breaking Barriers: Abby's Journey in Adaptive Sports
11:58 - Overcoming Challenges: The Impact of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
24:03 - Finding Strength: The Shift from Thin to Strong
36:00 - Advocacy and Representation: The Future of Adaptive Sports
Connect with Abi on Instagram to follow her journey.
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I'm joined by psychotherapist, author, and broadcaster Dr Aaron Balick to explore what it means to be human in a world that never logs off.
From AI and social media to attention spans, parenting, and imposter syndrome, this episode dives into the psychology of modern life - how technology shapes our identity, our relationships, and even our mental health.
Aaron shares his journey from therapist to thought leader, his viral centipede story that started it all, and his belief that the key to surviving the digital age lies in self-acceptance, critical thinking, and embracing complexity.
A conversation about who we are, who we think we are online, and how to stay grounded in between.
Chapters
02:50 - The Impact of Social Media on Self-Identity
05:51 - Understanding Imposter Syndrome in the Digital Age
08:51 - AI's Role in Modern Psychotherapy
11:50 - Navigating Hyper-Connectivity and Attention Spans
14:49 - The Influence of ADHD and Social Media
17:56 - The Challenges of Adolescence in a Digital World
24:29 - Navigating Netflix's Adolescence in the Digital Age
30:04 - Understanding Midlife Crises in Millennials
32:34 - The Role of Technology in Mental Health
35:44 - Self-Acceptance and Personal Growth
Find out more about Dr Aaron Balick's work on his website.
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What happens when a changemaker pushing for a better world hits burnout? In this episode, I sit down with Nora Wilhelm - a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, TEDx speaker, and systems innovator - to talk about the highs and lows of dedicating your life to change.
Nora shares how her journey started at just 15, leading her to co-found collaboratio helvetica in Switzerland and later create the well • change atelier and Parayma - projects that bring creativity, healing, and purpose into the world of social innovation.
It’s a conversation that’s both lighthearted and real - where we laugh, we get serious, and we explore how to keep going when the work of change feels overwhelming.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Nora Wilhelm's Journey
02:10 - The Challenge of Social Change and Burnout
04:14 - Early Influences and Awakening to Injustice
08:12 - First Steps Towards Activism
12:34 - Navigating Teenage Years and Finding Community
14:19 - University Experience and Disappointment
17:53 - Struggling with Balance and Overcommitment
19:55 - Recognizing the Need for Safeguards
22:16 - The Impact of Burnout and Seeking Help
26:31 - Facing Burnout: A Turning Point
30:22 - Life in the Burnout Clinic
33:31 - Preparing to Re-enter the World
35:21 - Breaking Free from Dependency
36:12 - Rediscovering Creative Passions
39:34 - The Power of Art in Change Work
41:11 - Scaling Impact through Parayma
44:17 - The Dalai Lama Fellowship Experience
51:51 - Finding Joy in Simple Moments
53:28 - Empowerment and Personal Agency
Connect with Nora on LinkedIn, Instagram or visit her website. Find out more about her work at Parayma and the well • change atelier.
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David Spencer - known across the industry as The Media Mentor - joins me for the first episode of ChatterBeans Season 3. From a childhood obsession with radio to a career spanning journalism, teaching, and mentoring, David shares how curiosity and community shaped his path. We dive into the changing world of radio and podcasting, the emotional pull of music, and how coffee culture reflects who we are. Expect inspiring life lessons on personal growth, creativity, and the importance of giving back.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to David Spencer and His Journey
05:46 - The Evolution from Radio to Journalism
11:47 - Becoming the Media Mentor
17:52 - The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Mentoring
23:56 - Passions Beyond Media: Music and Sports
29:55 - The Impact of Music on Personal Identity
36:02 - Advice on Initiative and Passion Projects
41:54 - Reflections on Vulnerability and Personal Growth
Connect with David Spencer and his work as The Media Mentor and on Instagram
Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released! Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.
Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.
Fifteen extraordinary guests. Countless unforgettable stories.
In this special trailer, host Isaac Kong offers a first sip of ChatterBeans Reserve - a season carefully brewed with remarkable conversations and the unique flavour of every personality.
Meet a brilliant psychotherapist exploring the human mind and AI, a Forbes-recognised social innovator, a record-breaking adaptive HYROX & CrossFit athlete, a quick-witted comedian and TV producer, a seasoned radio and podcast mentor, a classical musician, a podcast host and radio presenter, visionary business owners, fearless founders, and many more.
New episodes pour out every Wednesday starting 1 October 2025 on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you listen.
Grab your favourite coffee and savour the stories - this is ChatterBeans Reserve.
Follow and subscribe
Gareth Davies is the CEO of The Presenter Studio, the UK's leading presenter coaching business, offering presentation skills training and more. Gareth has spent three decades behind the scenes of some of the UK’s biggest television shows - and now, he’s on a mission to give back. As co-founder of The Presenter Studio, Gareth coaches emerging on-screen talent, blending his love of storytelling with a deep passion for creativity, learning, and personal growth.
In this episode of ChatterBeans, Gareth opens up about his journey from child actor to producer and mentor. We talk about how the TV industry has changed, what it really takes to stand out, and why rejection can sometimes be your biggest teacher.
We also dive into the realities of freelance life, the rituals that keep him grounded (including a serious love of coffee), and what he’s learned about success, authenticity, and finding joy beyond the job title.
Expect honest reflections, great advice for creatives, and a few unexpected gems — including a dream coffee date with Bette Midler.
Chapters
00:00 - The Journey of Gareth Davies in TV Production
02:53 - The Evolution of Television and New Talent
05:37 - The Presenter Studio: Nurturing New Talent
08:52 - Business Training and Presentation Skills
11:32 - From Child Actor to TV Producer
14:43 - Creative Background and Personal Growth
17:32 - Life Beyond TV: Hobbies and Interests
20:29 - Meeting New People as a Freelancer
23:26 - Future Aspirations for The Presenter Studio
26:16 - Coffee Rituals and Dream Coffee Dates
29:18 - Life Lessons and Advice from Experience
32:13 - Quick Fire Round: Insights and Fun Facts
Connect with Gareth at The Presenter Studio on Instagram, LinkedIn or visit their website.
In this episode of ChatterBeans, Zoe Park joins me to share her deeply personal journey into motherhood, identity transformation, and finding her voice as a twin parent and content creator.
Zoe opens up about the emotional shifts that come with parenting, why building a supportive community matters, and how she's learning to trust herself again - all while navigating the chaos of daily life with twins.
From authenticity and self-worth to content creation and change, this episode is a warm reminder that it’s okay to evolve, let go of perfection, and rewrite your story on your own terms.
Whether you’re a parent, creative, or just figuring life out – Zoe’s story is full of honesty, wisdom, and heart.
Topics we chat about:
Chapters
00:00 - The Journey of Motherhood and Identity Transformation
09:01 - Embracing Change and Reinvention
17:54 - Building Community and Supporting Twin Parents
25:52 - Navigating Life as a Content Creator
34:24 - Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
42:37 - Lessons on Authenticity and Self-Worth
Connect with Zoe and all things 'It's a Twin Thing' on Instagram
Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!
Want to be on the podcast? Get in touch at www.chatter-beans.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of ChatterBeans, we sit down with designer Carolyn Chan to explore how living in Hong Kong, Japan, and Canada has influenced her creative journey.
Carolyn shares insights on transitioning to freelancing, battling imposter syndrome, and embracing the evolving intersection of design and technology. Discover how cultural experiences can redefine personal and professional identity.
Key Topics:
Chapters
00:00 - Exploring Identity and Creativity
06:32 - The Journey to Freelancing
12:13 - Cultural Influences and Personal Identity
18:22 - The Future of Design and Technology
25:37 - Life Lessons and Personal Growth
Connect with Carolyn on Instagram and visit her website https://www.designedbycarolyn.co/
Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!
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This week on ChatterBeans, I sit down with the vibrant and totally unapologetic Talia Knoble-Gershon to talk all things neurodivergence, identity, queer joy, and social housing.
We chat about growing up with ADHD, mixing friendship groups like it’s a social experiment, dating (or not dating), and why Bridget Jones feels like a personal icon. Talia shares her passion for public service, how she brings her full self to work, and why living truthfully - chaos and all - is the only way forward.
Expect big laughs, honest reflections, and a reminder that being your authentic self is more than enough.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Talia Knoble-Gershon
02:19 - Understanding ADHD and Personal Challenges
09:05 - Living Authentically and Social Connections
13:10 - Passion for Social Housing
17:09 - Navigating University Life and Identity
22:20 - The Dating Landscape and Personal Experiences
26:54 - Creative Outlets and Future Aspirations
31:17 - Coffee Culture and Daily Routines
34:06 - Life Lessons and Unlearning
36:52 - Embracing Authenticity and Humour
38:52 - Writing as a Form of Expression
43:36 - Quick-fire round and Final Thoughts
Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!
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This week, I’m joined by HYROX athlete, coach, and all-round inspiring human Dean Jackson, for an honest and heartfelt conversation about life, fitness, and what happens when you stop pretending everything’s okay.
We chat about Dean’s journey into the HYROX world - what started as a personal challenge became a community and a new sense of purpose. Dean opens up about the struggles he’s faced, how coaching others has helped him grow, and why he believes we need to talk more - especially men.
We also cover:
Dean shares powerful reflections on childhood, parenting, and why being vulnerable is actually a strength.
Whether you're into fitness, mental health, parenting, or just love a good story about personal growth - this one’s for you.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Dean Jackson and His Journey
01:07 - The Impact of the HYROX Community
05:11 - Coaching and Personal Growth
07:42 - Mental Health and Masculinity
11:43 - Breaking the Stigma of Men's Mental Health
12:32 - The Role of Social Media in Mental Health
15:10 - Fatherhood as Motivation
16:34 - The Future of HYROX and Youth Involvement
21:07 - Growing Up in an Army Family
24:24 - Sports and Personal Development
25:25 - Overcoming Early Life Challenges
28:13 - Parenting Perspectives and Challenges
30:28 - Future Goals and Aspirations
32:13 - Life Lessons and Mental Health Awareness
34:57 - The Importance of Community and Support
36:57 - Coffee Conversations and Inspirations
39:13 - Finding Joy in Helping Others
40:13 - Quick-fire Round: Fun Insights
Connect with Dean Jackson on Instagram
Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!
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In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Isaac chats with Mimi Thompson about her journey from growing up in Thailand to forging a new life in London. Mimi opens up about navigating cultural differences, adjusting to a new social scene, and the emotional ups and downs of post-college life. Together, they dive into deep and meaningful topics - feminism, emotional vulnerability, women’s health, and the power of creative expression through writing and poetry.
Expect insights on patriarchy, girl’s education, Taylor Swift, unlearning old beliefs, and the underrated importance of having fun. Whether you're into cultural conversations, creative musings, or thoughtful reflections on relationships and growth—this one’s for you.
We talk about:
• Growing up in Thailand and adjusting to London
• Feminism, patriarchy, and women’s health
• Writing, creativity, and finding your voice
• Friendship, relationships, and emotional growth
• The power of unlearning and pursuing joy
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Mimi Thompson
03:02 - Cultural Contrasts: Thailand vs. London
06:02 - Creative Beginnings: Growing Up in Bangkok
08:55 - The Influence of Thai Buddhism
12:01 - Transitioning to American Life
15:13 - Navigating Friendships in London
18:02 - Creative Aspirations and Writing Journey
20:55 - Exploring Women's Health and Feminism
28:07 - Exploring Feminism Through Bell Hooks
31:54 - The Impact of Patriarchy on Gender Dynamics
34:14 - Volunteering and Advocacy for Education
38:02 - Cultural Reflections on Identity and Preferences
39:10 - The Joy of Writing and Creative Expression
42:27 - Unlearning and Letting Go
47:02 - Pursuing Fun Over Happiness
49:16 - Quick-fire Round: Personal Insights
Connect with Mimi on Instagram to see her writing and poetry.
Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!
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This week on ChatterBeans, we meet Charlie - coach, performer, future husband, and walking ball of chaotic joy. From the front row of a musical to the front of a gym class, Charlie shares how fitness transformed his life and why coaching feels a lot like group therapy.
We talk about:
This is one of those raw, honest, laugh-out-loud episodes that reminds us joy is resistance - and showing up as you are is enough.
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Charlie Wallace
01:32 - Navigating Wedding Planning and Personal Life
16:19 - Career Transition to Fitness Coaching
22:17 - The Fitness Industry and Coaching Philosophy
30:04 - Exploring ADHD and Personal Insights
32:36 - Navigating ADHD Diagnosis
40:47 - Embracing Change and Self-Awareness
52:16 - Life Lessons and Unlearning
55:40 - Quic-fire Reflections and Future Aspirations
Connect with Charlie on Instagram
Did you enjoy this episode? Follow ChatterBeans© on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok for even more from ChatterBeans©. And, subscribe to be the first to hear about new episodes, as soon as they're released!
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